It was already late when they arrived at the shifters' camp, the scent of pine and smoke lingering in the cool night air. Ren finally caught sight of Oak Village nestled between the trees, its lantern-lit paths winding around sturdy timber homes. Ogain stood tall at the gates, far too massive to enter.
"I'll stay here," he said, his deep voice calm. Org said he argued with Sunkiath. As always, Griffins and Dragons would never come along easily. Griffins valued respect, and dragons were nonchalant and wild in attitude.
Ren nodded. "Orgeve and Arkilla will be in that cottage nearby," she replied. And then glanced toward a squat, stone-built house just beyond the gate.
The village was alive with quiet activity. Shifters moved about, some returning from scouting patrols, others talking in low murmurs. There was a comforting familiarity to it all.
"So, Daniella and little Dave were living here!" Ren said, her voice tinged with wonder.
