Zero

Zephyria

As dawn breaks, the first rays of sunlight filter through the jagged entrance of the snowy cave, casting a warm golden glow that dances across the frost-kissed faces of two sleeping men. The faint crackle of the dying fire mingles with the soft whisper of the wind outside, creating a tranquil symphony in the stillness of the morning. Shadows flicker playfully along the walls, illuminating the rugged contours of their features—a testament to the trials they've faced. The warmth of the fire wraps around them like a protective embrace, offering solace against the biting cold. Outside, a pristine blanket of snow glistens under the awakening sun, a stark contrast to the rugged interior of the cave, where dreams and adventures intertwine in the quiet embrace of a new day. Astral groaned as his eyes slightly opened, he groaned as he tried to sit up. Feeling arms around him he looked down to see Jaylen hugging him snoring and drooling on his chest- Astral bared his teeth. Pushing his face using his foot, "JaYlen-" Groaning he growled.

"Ughhhhh-" Jaylen groaned and scoots away hugging his jacket and curling back up snoring, Astral sat up shaking his head and huffing- Astral stood wrapping his kimono around him looking out of the cave, they have to leave today..there's so much more to be done, he glanced back at Jaylen his tail wagging slightly a small smile forming in the corner of his lips. Before he knew it the once orange outline grew into a slight yellow, Astral looked away huffing, this idiot, how dare he, he couldn't help but feel somewhat close to him...almost like a brother...like the one he had lost.

Astral sat outside for a while till he figured he needed to get up and pack, he started walking around and packing the camp and feeding the horses, as he started the process of packing he went to start some kind of breakfast. He ended up making Eggs and meat, The rich, savory aroma of roasted mammoth meat wafts through the air, the savory smell getting to Jaylen, he sits up as he gasped looking around, "Food-" He announced as he seen the camp was seemingly all packed.

"What- You packed," He stood seeing the plates made on the log, "And cooked-" Jaylen lowered his head feeling slightly guilty Astral did it all alone. Astral just shoved the plate into his chest, "Eat-" He told him, smiling very slightly.

Jaylen nodded aggressively and sat holding the plate, Scarfing it down like this was his only meal- Astral shook his head calmly eating his food, "Animal-" He softly laughed-

"ThusIsSoouGoud-" Jaylen spoke in the middle of mouthfuls of food, scarfing the perfectly cooked meat and eggs down- Astral

In the heart of the icy mountains, where the air was crisp and the wind whispered secrets of ancient tales, Astral busily packed supplies onto their sturdy horses. The chill of the world around them was momentarily forgotten as his companion, Jaylen, joined him, a spark of camaraderie igniting the frosty morning. Together, they embarked on the winding trail that led away from the bitter cold, their voices mingling with the crunch of snow beneath their boots. As Astral hummed a lively tune—a melody reminiscent of sunlit days and warmer climes—Jaylen, with a reflective smile, pondered the future that lay ahead.

"So, what's the next land like?" he asked, curiosity glinting in his eyes. Astral turned his gaze, tilting his head, "Well... it's dry and sandy. Zephyria isn't much, but it has bustling markets and endless stretches of sun-kissed dunes." He huffed softly, the 'excitement' barely contained within him as the town of Zephyria loomed closer.

Jaylen, always ready with a quip, shot back, "Better than being soaked and freezing your butt off!" The laughter that danced between him was a bright contrast to the stark landscape.

Astral nodded, a chuckle escaping him, "Yeah, but it's really hot, though—"

"Like me," Jaylen interjected, a teasing grin spreading across his face. Astral's laughter erupted, his hands flying to his face in mock exasperation.