Stranger

Vanta's time away from home had stirred a whirlwind of emotions within her. It was daunting and isolating, but somehow also sparked a flame of curiosity and excitement. Boreas had so much to see (literally, now that she could) and so much to teach. Apart from the protective embrace of the Armada and her family, Vanta was awarded precious space to grow. Her heart ached for her littermates, yet she was sure they were understanding of the significance of her mission. The passing of her mother - coupled with the return of her daylight vision - had led to more questions than answers.

As she tread her solitary path, the unique landscape provided a welcome distraction. Spring water, warm to the touch, burst forth from an opalescent formation, creating half-moon pools scattered across the land. It reminded her almost of the heated pools beneath the caverns of home... though with a much nicer view.

Around her, large trees stood guard, framing the pools with a sense of seclusion. It was a picturesque, private retreat. Once upon a time, the Armada had owned the territory adjacent to this. As she dipped a cautious toe into the pool's still surface, Vanta reflected on how Armada life might have been with a wonder like this untapped and unused in their backyard.