The sun was barely rising over the treetops as Hiro and Lina made their way into the wilderness, leaving Graybrook far behind. The village had been their home for a time, but now it was a place that could no longer provide the safety or seclusion they needed. The world beyond Graybrook was vast, full of uncharted lands, wild creatures, and, Hiro hoped, others like him.
As they traveled deeper into the forests and mountains, Hiro's senses were attuned to every detail, the rustle of the leaves, the calls of the birds, and the ever-present feeling that they were being watched. The gods had eyes everywhere, but Hiro wasn't worried. He was ready.
Lina moved beside him, her hawk flying overhead while her stag trotted quietly at her side. She had grown stronger since they first met, her bond with her creatures deepening as Hiro had taught her how to tap into the hidden power within them. Now, as they moved through the wilds, Lina radiated a quiet confidence, her eyes sharp and her movements fluid.
"Where do we start?" Lina asked, breaking the silence as they passed through a dense thicket of trees.
Hiro considered the question for a moment. "There are rumors of other tamers," he said. "Hidden enclaves in the mountains, secretive groups who keep to themselves. We'll find them. We'll start there."
Lina nodded, her eyes scanning the horizon. "Do you think they'll join us?"
"They will," Hiro said with quiet certainty. "They may not know it yet, but they'll want to protect the same things we do. The gods have been keeping tamers in the shadows for too long. It's time for us to rise."