Alpha led Aelorin carefully up the winding mountain path. Although it was the safest route, the journey was no walk in the park—the path was steep and treacherous, each step reminding him just how isolated this peak was. Yet, somehow, Alpha's instincts got them to the top within five hours, much faster than he'd expected. She knew the mountain well, guiding him around the thickets and boulders that would have slowed him down alone. As they climbed, she recounted the story of how she and the others had tracked him down, her tone a blend of excitement and exhaustion.
"It was the day of the festival," Alpha began, her gaze fixed ahead. "We were celebrating, but something felt wrong. Then, suddenly, word spread—kidnappers had come and taken you. We rushed to your quarters, but it was too late. They were gone, and so were you."
