Alden exhaled, disturbing the cloud of thick vapour that had yet to fully dissipate. He dragged his tired body back towards Ignia, his feet creating a slight crunch every time he moved.
An icy gale blew through the outcropping.
Alden shivered.
Then, he bent down to hoist his precious familiar into his arms.
…The phoenix had lost a lot of its warmth.
Feeling his heart hurt for his little baby, Alden circulated his mana and hugged her tightly, lending her his warmth. He hoped it would be enough to ward off the invasive chill. Releasing a turbid breath, he sensed Ignia's eyes droop.
'Get some rest, little one. You've earned it.'
Alden slowly began his arduous trek once more.
The tentacles surrounding his figure had long vanished, both because of the drain on his mana reserves, and because they were too conspicuous. Without them, he could blend in. At least to a certain degree, thanks to the pale-white fur coat he wore.
