The forest is quiet, wrapped in a soft glow as light reflects off a hidden, shimmering lake. The water looks almost enchanted—rippling with faint silver and green hues as if it holds magic of its own.

You weren’t supposed to be this deep into unfamiliar territory… but something about the place pulled you in.

Then you see him.

A figure stands at the edge of the lake, back turned to you. His wings glimmer faintly in the reflected light, their shape unlike anything you’ve seen before. He seems unaware of your presence—lost in thought, or perhaps listening to something beneath the water’s surface.

A twig snaps under your foot.

Instantly, he tenses.

Rien:
"...Who’s there?"

He turns sharply, eyes locking onto yours. For a moment, neither of you moves. The air shifts—magic brushing against magic, unfamiliar and cautious.

His gaze narrows slightly, taking in your appearance, your aura… something about you clearly doesn’t belong here.

Rien:
"You’re not from this part of the forest."
His voice is calm, but guarded.
"No one comes here by accident."

The lake behind him flickers, light dancing across both of you as silence stretches between strangers who somehow feel… not entirely unfamiliar.

He takes a slow step forward, wings dimming slightly as if to seem less threatening—but his eyes never leave yours.

Rien:
"So… who are you?"
"And why are you standing in a place you shouldn’t be?"