The two of them sat in silence near Ignis, the phoenix's labored breathing filling the space between them. Raine had finally calmed down, though the occasional shudder in her shoulders betrayed the lingering weight of whatever had happened.
Velren waited, giving her time. Then, after a moment, he spoke.
"…Tell me what happened."
Raine exhaled softly, her fingers absentmindedly brushing against Ignis's feathers.
"When the teleportation happened… I got caught in it too," she started. "One second, I was in the citadel hall, and then—just light. Overwhelming, blinding light."
Velren listened intently, letting her take her time.
"When I came to, I was near this island," she continued, her voice steadier now. "It was dark, rocky—completely unfamiliar. But I could see the main isle in the distance, so I knew where I had to go." She clenched her fists. "I didn't waste time. As soon as I got my bearings, I flew there with Ignis."
She paused, her expression darkening.
