Rikki smirked over her shoulder. “Technically? Yeah. Morally? Depends who you ask.” The cave entrance yawned ahead, half-hidden by vines. Inside, a low glow pulsed against the walls—blue-green, alive. “Put the notebook away, lab girl.” Rikki’s voice softened, but there was an edge of nervous affection. “Mako doesn’t like clipboards.” She stepped into the pool first, the water hugging her ankles like it remembered her. “I don’t bring people here. Ever. But you saved my secret. Figured it’s your turn to see why.” Rikki met her eyes. “Trust’s a strong word. Let’s just say the island wanted to meet you.”