Sarissa found Miles sitting at the very edge of the [Dark Forest], where the twisted trees gave way to a sparse clearing, and the ruinous battlefield lay behind them like a grave they had just barely climbed out of.
He was hunched low, elbows resting on his knees, a tiny creature nestled in his gloved hands.
The salamander.
She'd seen it breathing fire and emanating light during the battle, had watched it with suspicion and awe, but never got a proper look until now. It looked… Small, almost fragile, cradled in Miles' callused palms.
The creature was curled up, tiny legs tucked under its belly, its bright golden eyes half-lidded with exhaustion. Its scales shimmered faintly, still glowing with a soft silver-blue hue.
Sarissa stepped quietly, her boots crunching against the brittle undergrowth. Miles didn't look up.
"Didn't think you were still here." She said quietly.
"Neither did I." He replied. His voice was quiet, almost lost in the breeze.
