Stone Circle needless to say, I keep her in check

At the sound of Nikai's voice, Alya spun around to grin at him. And then, just to be contrary (as she was feeling a bit mischievous), she turned and bounded a few more paces away from him. She was not quite running, but clearly daring him to give chase.

"Come and catch me," she called over her shoulder.

It had been a while since she'd felt free enough to be playful, but it hit her full force, now. She was glad that it was finally springtime. The winter had always been her season on the high peaks with their snowy caps, but she was finding a liking for the wildflowers and the sweeping meadow as well. Even the forest seemed new and beautiful, and so different from the desolate boughs she'd sheltered under with Morningside.