Ankyra Sound it's the moments we achieve

something about this cave -- val's sense of consciousness slipped below the water's spectral surface.

he was underwater. the sounds of the world above were muffled. a clutch of bubbles burst from his throat.

he was clawing up

but was it up?

a distant light panned through the rippling ocean and he began to paddle to it

his throat burned

the light tilted and turned towards him

taking on a shape

glintwater yellow

a pair of accipitrine eyes turned their sunlight's harsh glare upon him

* * *

when val woke his throat was raw as if saltwater had burned its way through it.

he was back at the rosa den. his fur was damp, a cold sweat rustling underneath his skin.

miette. astera. a pair of yellow eyes. the torn fabric of his dream was disorienting.

but the message was clear.

val threw back his head in a howl, erupting from the den in the direction of the grotto.