The rabbit stirred immediately, clearly not as deeply asleep as she'd thought. His blue eyes blinked open, reflecting the faint light.
"Already?" he mumbled.
"Yeah. Nothing happened. No movement. Just watch the approach, wake us if you see or hear anything unusual."
Cutie crawled forward, taking her position at the entrance. He looked small and vulnerable in the darkness, but his eyes were alert, scanning the forest.
Kaya moved deeper into the shelter, settling into the space Cutie had vacated. The moss bedding was still warm from his body heat.
She lay down, her knife within easy reach, and closed her eyes.
Sleep should have come easily. She was exhausted, physically and mentally drained.
But her mind wouldn't shut off.
The drake's words kept echoing.
'You are here for a purpose.'
'The world will force you to choose what you are willing to fight for.'
What 'was' she willing to fight for?
Survival. Obviously. That was instinctive, non-negotiable.
But beyond that?
