Spires reach the skies.

Oath felt the warmth of her body pressing against his, and the familiar comfort of her presence helped ease the growing tension in the eerie atmosphere. Her words about needing protection mirrored his own instincts and caused his whole body to buzz with life, and though the spires loomed above them like silent sentinels, for a moment, it felt like they were in their own world, their bond stronger than the unsettling surroundings.

“You’re right,” he replied, his voice soft but steady, “being smart is the only way through this.” His eyes shifted back to the towering stones, listening carefully to the wind’s haunting melody. The change in the sound was subtle but noticeable, as if the very air around them was alive with ancient whispers. “It does sound different… like something is stirring.”

He nuzzled her again, offering comfort and reassurance. “Maybe it’s the wind playing tricks,” he mused, though he wasn’t entirely convinced. “But we’ll stay cautious.” As he searched the ground for something to wrap her paw, he couldn’t help but glance at her, the affection in her eyes making his heart feel lighter, even in the midst of this unsettling place.

Oath glanced down at Fairytale's paw, concern flickering in his eyes as he saw the small wound. His gaze swept the ground, searching for something soft yet sturdy enough to wrap around her paw. He spotted a nearby patch of moss growing at the base of one of the spires. Though it was old and weathered, the moss was thick and resilient, its spongy texture perfect for bandaging.

Gently, he padded over and pulled a decent-sized piece free with his teeth. He returned to Fairytale, carefully laying the moss over her wound. “This will do for now,” he murmured softly, using his nose and paw to delicately press the moss into place. His movements were slow and steady, making sure it wouldn’t fall off as they walked. "It’s not perfect, but it’ll protect your paw until we can get something better.”

Satisfied with his makeshift bandage, he nuzzled her again, offering her a reassuring smile. “There, that should help. Just let me know if it bothers you, okay?” His touch was gentle, his voice warm, even as the eerie winds howled around them.

"speech"