The air was calm again, though the faint smell of ash still lingered in the breeze.
Aamir sat on the ground, chest rising and falling as he stared at the ruins of his home—the small hut he had built with his beast companions. Charred wood, shattered stone, and claw marks told the story of the battle. Despite that, a faint smile tugged at his lips.
Spark—a beast resembling a wolf with glowing fur—trotted toward him, brushing gently against his shoulder.
Aamir chuckled and ruffled Spark's head. The beast licked his hand affectionately.
"Don't worry, buddy," Aamir said softly. "So what if our house is torn? We'll build it again. It's not that big of a deal."
Vyuk stood behind him, arms folded. A small smirk touched his lips.
He decided to test the boy's heart.
"So," Vyuk said, "what if someone comes and destroys it again?"
Aamir shrugged. "Then I'll build it again."
Vyuk tilted his head. "And what if someone breaks it a hundred thousand times?"
