Here again

the appearance of Strai’s owl is a welcome surprise; Spider hadn’t expected to see him again so soon. “hi there,” they murmur to the companion, smiling wanly as they scrub at their face. another night of poor sleep has only deepened the dark circles under their eyes, and they can only imagine how they must look, but they won’t let that deter them from seeing their friend. following the owl’s flight path, Spider rounds the corner, something softening in their chest at the sight of Strai. “aren’t you a sight for sore eyes,” they tease, though it lacks their usual buoyancy. mostly they just feel tired. it hangs over them like a shroud, draped heavily across their shoulders. they move to hug him, needing the comfort of a familiar presence. “how’ve you been?”

"Speech"