Rhaëlya stood outside the cave, arms crossed as a crisp breeze swept through the air. The scent of pine and frost clung faintly to the wind.
Winter was coming. The first signs were here, crunchy patches of frozen soil, brittle leaves curling in on themselves, and the steady drop in temperature.
She narrowed her eyes at the sorry-looking cave she called home.
'This place is going to freeze me solid if I don't do something about it.'
She looked down at herself, her bare arms covered only by a fur bandeau and skirt made from animal hide. Like most beastfolk, she wore just enough to cover her intimacy. But warmth? That was something else entirely.
Carmen and Azrakai had gone hunting earlier that morning. They'd left without fuss, Carmen after a few smirks and a tail flick, Azrakai with a curious glance and his usual quiet loyalty.
They didn't ask why she insisted they leave. That was good.
Crypt had vanished before the sun rose, his scent fading toward the mountains.
