Armor

With battle days away, Isla decides to equip Lynx with armor after training together across difficult terrain. Seeking guidance, she approaches Wren, who reveals Lynx already has armor from past battles fought alongside Isla’s mother.

Wren leads Isla to an armory where massive plates tailored to Lynx wait. Isla strains her Starling power to position the iron plates along Lynx’s sides, neck, and head, assembling a saddle-like seat with Wren’s help. Lynx approves, and Isla tests the fit as they sprint through the forest, her confidence growing.

In a secluded clearing, Lynx prompts Isla to dismount and shares memories through their bond. Isla sees her mother alive—poised, beautiful, and commanding—then a scene of her parents together, followed by them cradling newborn Isla. Overwhelmed, Isla weeps, realizing Lynx knew her as a baby and once fought with her mother.

Feeling Lynx’s grief and loyalty, Isla thanks him, recognizing that their reunion would have pleased her mother. They remain together until dusk, united by shared loss and purpose before the looming conflict.

Isla then portals back to her room to prepare weapons while Lynx settles. But when she turns, Lynx is mysteriously gone—replaced by someone else—abruptly ending the moment and heightening immediate danger.