The air inside the cave was cool and heavy, a stark contrast to the warmth of dawn that lingered outside. The faint sound of dripping water echoed off the stone walls, mixing with the soft whimpers of children that grew louder as Kenji and Haruka pressed deeper inside.**
Kenji's heart clenched with every small cry. His babies—they were frightened, alone, and clinging to one another in the dark while he had been recovering. The thought of their fear gnawed at him like an insistent flame, spurring him forward.
Haruka moved with quiet grace, her pink fur glowing faintly in the dim light. "I can hear them just ahead, Master," she said softly, her voice carrying a hint of reassurance. "They're safe."
