Redsand Canyon Boot Straps

Mom started talking about Epoch, reminding Leona of their visit there, which to the girl hadn't been so formative as to be memorable; she remembered they'd gone somewhere but not why, or who they met, or what they did. Such things took the back seat in Leona's head, who was much more focused on games and training (in that order).

The longer the explanation went on, the more that Leona understood of it. It sounded like mom and dad wanted to take them away from Mereo, which was a surprise Leona was not prepared for; Jack shouted in favor of it, and mom had a bright look upon her face, the kind which Leona had missed during the frightening span of time that Towhee was injured and not accepting visitors; that touch-and-go moment right after the chaos.

What do you say, little lion? Her dad asked, nudging her while she processed.

It really didn't feel like a choice. Leona wasn't about to say no to her esteemed, beloved parents. Jack's right, we're going! Leona piped up finally, and stood strong beside her brother with a mimicked posture, feigning the same energy that he exuded. Deep down though, Leona knew she wasn't being truthful; but she was a kid, and not only did she desire happiness in her family unit, but she was afraid of being left here alone even if here was her one true home.