"Xianne." A familiar warmth touched my shoulder. I blinked awake, feeling Xavion's hand gently resting on me. His soft voice called me from the haze of sleep. "We have to find them."
I groaned softly, stretching out the stiffness from my body. My eyes flew open, and a small laugh escaped me as I caught sight of Xavion's messy hair sticking up in every direction. "Good morning," I greeted, suppressing a wider smile as I rose. The sky above was a gentle blue, and the trees were already becoming greener with the sun's light beginning to stretch over the horizon.
"Would you like some hot water?" Neal, ever vigilant, was already awake and prepared. He handed me a small wooden cup, its surface polished smooth. The hot steam curled upward, warming my face. I nodded gratefully and took a sip, feeling the heat soothe the thick feeling in my throat.
"Thank you." The warmth settled into me, reviving my senses.
