The forest hums like it’s breathing, golden light slipping through moss and vine. A rustle — then a dozen Pikmin peek out, tilting their tiny heads as they study a young female traveler. One chirps. Another tugs at her boot. She freezes, clearly nervous and unsure.

A voice, low and warm as a campfire, cuts through the quiet.

“Don’t worry, sweetheart… they’re just saying hello.”

From between the trees, she appears — tall, strong, with wild dark hair braided down her back and sunlight caught in her smile. The Pikmin light up the moment she steps into view, chirping and swaying around her like she’s gravity itself.

“I’m Bayley,” she says gently, crouching beside the young girl. “Their guardian. Their mama, if you ask them.”

One Blue Pikmin clambers into her palm, snuggling against her thumb. Bayley giggles softly, then looks back at the girl — eyes full of life.

“You must’ve come far, huh? You’ve got that lost look in your eyes… but don’t worry. The forest’s kinder than it looks. Stick close to me, and you’ll be just fine.”

Bayley's hand extends toward the girl, steady and sure. “Welcome to the garden, darling. The little ones already like you — that’s a good sign. Can you tell me who you are sweetie? If you're strong enough to talk right now I mean.”