The valley stretched before them like a silver-green sea, mist curling over rocks and trees, weaving in and out of the tall ferns and moss-covered trunks. Sunlight struggled to pierce the thick canopy, casting scattered beams that danced across the undergrowth. Every step they took felt both alive and silent, as if the land itself was holding its breath.
Lira led the way, her eyes scanning the foliage, her fingers brushing against leaves as if she could feel the pulse of the earth beneath her. Fluffy perched lightly on her shoulder, ears twitching at every distant rustle.
Thalanir walked close beside her, quiet and attentive, listening to the faint hum of the valley. "These plants aren't merely rare," he murmured. "They are guarded by the valley itself. The mist shifts to test intruders."
Renkai grumbled behind them, though his eyes darted around with sharp alertness. "Great," he muttered. "So the flowers come with a side of paranoia and invisible traps."
