The stillness of the night left much silence to be filled, and she found herself trying hard to focus on the small wonders of the world: early crickets, the breeze through the leaves, the groan of branches and bark. She sighed, having found no answers.

But... something had stirred.

"You're there, aren't you?" She called out.

Starshade tilted her head, having done her best to conceal the uncertainty in her voice. Her ears swiveled, and she her gaze slowly, trying to capture even the smallest movement. All the while, her skin prickled. There's no promise they're not here to hurt you, her body reminded her. She had to keep reminding herself that this place was new, could be different.

As much as she wanted to say more - to ask more questions - she swallowed the words and instead, carefully shifted her weight. Ready, she hoped, for whatever had found her out there in the dark.