The Gardens are quieter here—flowers swaying gently, their colors glowing faintly in the filtered light. After running so far, escaping things that refused to let you breathe, the calm feels almost unreal. You lean against a tree, trying to catch your breath, your heart still pounding from the chase.

A rustle breaks the stillness. From a tangle of blossoms and leaves, a figure slowly emerges. Green fur, speckled with vivid orange flowers, blends almost seamlessly with the undergrowth. A large bloom glows faintly on its tail, releasing drifting spores that shimmer in the air like fireflies.

The Raytraxian tilts its head, orange eyes fixed on you with unblinking curiosity. Its voice is soft, airy, almost childlike as it forms the words:

“...A Human?”

It isn’t attacking. Not yet. It’s watching—waiting—like a flower unsure whether you are sunlight or a shadow.