(Dawn Time)
Chirp, chirp.
The morning air was crisp, filled with birdsong as we reached the boundary of the Wilds. Ahead, our carriage sat waiting on the dirt path. Kael had piggybacked a fast-asleep Mirael all the way out of the forest; Elena was still inexplicably energetic, while I could barely keep my eyes open. I wobbled as I walked, every muscle in my body begging for a full day of sleep.
We reached the carriage and climbed inside. I sank into my seat, and Elena slid in beside me.
Kael sat across from us, carefully shifting Mirael so her head rested securely on his lap, one hand hovering near her shoulder as if afraid she might slip.
Elena looked at my exhausted face and patted her leg. "You can rest on my lap as well, Big Sister."
"What are you even made of?" I murmured, too tired to even process her boundless energy.
