The morning sunlight spilled softly across their camp, illuminating the aftermath of the skirmishes. Renkai nursed minor cuts along his arms, Thalanir rubbed his shoulder where a shadow strike had grazed him, and Serelyth's wings flexed slowly as she stretched, the warmth of the day calming her restless energy. Lira moved between them, her hands glowing faintly as she healed bruises and minor wounds, muttering quiet words of elemental power.
Hours passed as the tension of past battles ebbed, replaced with the focused anticipation of what lay ahead. Finally, Serelyth shifted into her dragon form, scales glinting in the morning light. She lowered her massive head to the group, eyes calm but sharp.
"We've waited long enough," she said, her voice deep and resonant, carrying the authority of both dragon and friend. "We know where their scouts come from. We know enough. It's time. We go for the mastermind."
