Meanwhile…
That night in Javier's room, Liana sat quietly on the couch.
Gloria, Felicia, Delya, and Mimi were already asleep, sprawled comfortably across the huge bed.
Liana gazed thoughtfully at the mana glasses Javier had given her before leaving that evening. She slipped them on and adjusted them gently.
She smiled, watching the feed from the mana cam linked to Javier's location.
Through the glasses, she could see the forest path ahead, feel the rhythm of Buddy's stride, and hear Javier's cheerful voice coming through the mana talkie in her ears.
"Buddy! Let's just enjoy the night. Take in the view as we walk—no need to rush."
"Cuquawked!!"
"Besides, I'm sure this forest road is full of your kin, right?"
"Cuquawked!!"
"Heh… We don't need to worry about monsters. Pekko are the strongest ones around here."
Liana's smile deepened, warmth blooming in her chest. She brushed her fingers along the edge of the glasses, reassured.
He's safe. He's happy. And he's coming home.
