----
The night was silent except for the rhythmic crackle of the fire outside Fowad's modest home.
Shadows danced against the courtyard walls as the flames flickered, casting faint golden light on the figures surrounding it.
Fowad sat on a wooden stool, leaning forward, his eyes fixed on the mesmerizing fire. His thoughts were heavy, a constant churn of questions that refused to quiet.
Orinth, alive and bustling during the day, now slept soundly. Yet, Fowad couldn't find the same peace.
His beasts rested nearby: Foxy lay curled on the ground, her radiant tails flickering faintly as she dozed; Zoom buzzed with barely contained energy, pacing restlessly as if sharing its master's unease; and Fattey hovered silently, emitting faint sparks of chaotic energy as it swayed in midair.