Buddy dashed ahead at full speed, his white ore talons kicking up small bursts of dust with every powerful stride.
"Whoa—Buddy!!" Javier laughed, gripping the reins with one hand as the wind rushed past him.
Cuquawked!! Buddy squawked proudly, chest puffed, wings half-flared, as if to say, "I was born for this."
Javier leaned back in the saddle slightly, letting the night breeze cool his face.
But even as they raced forward, his thoughts drifted.
Liana… Gloria…
He blinked, his gaze softening as he stared at the road ahead.
What are they doing right now...?
He hadn't spoken to them since the mission began—though the mana talkies were still within range. Something told him to let them rest.
Did their training start? With Ari and Aria...?
He chuckled lightly to himself.
"…They're probably fine."
His eyes trailed up to the dark canopy of trees above.
It's already night. They're probably asleep now…
Pause.
