The Sentinels i.viii : who was given a pat on the back

A brown figure emerged from the ruined forest, golden eyes cutting through the dull light of a cloudy day. It wasn't Iliksis, thankfully, but Maegi stiffened nonetheless, clambering to her paws and preparing herself for a fight. Even that small motion had her muscles trembling; she was so dreadfully tired. . .

Who are you? she asked, lifting her chin in a silent show of feigned strength. Do you live here? The girl wasn't sure if she even had the energy to fight or to flee. All she wanted to do was to collapse in a heap right here, right now, and sleep until the winter was over and the snow had all melted away.