The morning mist still clung to the waterfall when
Cadmus and Kallis stiffened at the same time, scales tightening, pupils narrowing into thin, icy slits.
"Someone approaches," Kallis murmured.
Cadmus's tail began to coil protectively around the bedframe where Novalyn sat,"A male."
Novalyn stood up slowly, "Another snake beastman?"
The brothers exchanged a look.
"No," Cadmus said slowly. "Camel Hump Valley is leopard territory. A valley elder, perhaps—but they rarely leave their inner settlement."
Kallis stepped closer to Novalyn, his body angled between her and the cave entrance.
"Our presence here has not been challenged before," he whispered, "but a pregnant, unattached female appearing out of thin air… that will draw attention."
Novalyn placed a gentle hand on his arm. "Let's hear them out. If they're worried, it's better we know why."
Kallis didn't relax, but he nodded.
---
Standing just beyond the waterfall veil was a tall, older beastman with tawny-gold hair bound into braids, leopard ears flicking in agitation. His spotted tail swept sharply behind him, signaling both authority and annoyance.
"Serpent twins," the elder said, voice rumbling like distant thunder. "We sensed a surge of spiritual power last night. And this…" His amber gaze shifted past them to Novalyn, lingering on her glowing skin, her belly, the faint hum of her new hearth bond. "…explains much."
Kallis's jaw tightened. "Elder Jorren. State your business."
Jorren bristled but did not rise to the provocation. His eyes remained fixed on Novalyn, softening only slightly.
"I am here because there has not been a naturally radiating spiritual hearth in this region in ten generations. Such things cause ripples."
His gaze sharpened.
"And ripples draw predators. Rogue beastmen. Rootless ones."
Cadmus hissed low.
Novalyn instinctively placed her hand over her stomach. She didn't think she could do what she did last time when faced by rootless and rogue beastman...not with her already pregnant.
Jorren lifted both palms in a placating gesture.
"I am not here to take her. But the valley demands that any pregnant female within our borders be examined by our designated healer."
"Harvey," Novalyn breathed—the leopard healer on the list of males that would be affected by Bai Qingqing's arrival.
The elder nodded. "Yes. He is skilled, discreet, and trusted. And frankly…" His eyes flicked toward the serpent twins. "Better that he evaluates her than letting rumors grow. Already the valley is speaking of the 'golden female who descended from mist.'"
Kallis's tail thrashed once.
Cadmus's narrowed eyes suggested he didn't appreciate anyone discussing their female.
Novalyn stepped forward before tension sharpened.
---
"I appreciate your concern, Elder Jorren." Her voice was calm but carried the quiet authority of a Qilin. "I'll agree to see Harvey—if Cadmus and Kallis accompany me."
Jorren blinked, clearly thrown by her poise.
Cadmus leaned close to her, pleased. "Our female is wise."
Kallis's voice was low, resolute. "We will not let her out of our sight."
Jorren sighed, then inclined his head. "Very well. But be warned—Harvey is cautious. He will ask questions. And the valley… is already curious."
His attention returned to Novalyn, eyes narrowing slightly in thought.
"You carry strong spiritual energy for someone so newly arrived. And your bond with these two is forming unusually fast."
Novalyn felt Cadmus's tail coil lightly around her ankle.
Kallis stepped even closer.
Jorren watched the gestures with the expression of a man unsure if he should be impressed or worried.
"This level of… attachment… so soon will draw further attention," he warned. "Ensure you are prepared."
And with that, he departed, leaving ripples of unease in his wake.
---
The moment he was out of sight, Cadmus exhaled sharply.
"I disliked his tone."
"I dislike any male staring at our female so boldly," Kallis added, voice low and dark.
Novalyn laughed softly, easing the tension. "I thought he was respectful."
"He stared too long," Cadmus muttered.
Kallis nodded gravely. "Far too long."
But beneath their jealousy, something else pulsed—instinct, old and primal.
Territorial awareness.
Novalyn felt it like a soft thrum in the air, brushing against her skin.
Her spiritual hearth had awakened…
And now the world could feel her.
---
Cadmus flicked his tongue thoughtfully.
"Kallis, prepare the travel sled. If the valley wants an examination—fine. But I want Harvey to see with his own eyes that she is safe. Protected."
Kallis's silver eyes glowed faintly.
"And I will inform the valley guard that any male who approaches her without permission will answer to us."
Their tails twined protectively behind her.
And far below the waterfall, unseen by them, something watched…
Eyes glinting with interest.
Attracted by the new, powerful presence in Camel Hump Valley.