lonesome I came

'Cause there were pages turned with the bridges burned
Everything you lose is a step you take

The shadow moves, but it makes no effort to attack, and though Lyra remains wary, she begins to relax her hold on her weapons. She watches as it comes closer, a silent shade blotting out the stars. When it is near enough to make out its shape, Lyra's eyes widen: it's a griffin, massive and beautiful - and thoroughly deadly, if it wants to be. But then its shape morphs and changes until a man stands before her. His features are lit only by the moon and stars overhead, but it's enough to make out the way he holds his hands up, doing his best to be non-threatening.

Lyra is torn. She doesn't want to be overly suspicious, especially when - if the man meant her harm - he could have ended her easily as a griffin, hatchets or no. But she's also done enough search and rescue work to know that things aren't always what they seem and that kindness can be sparing in the wilds of Caido. Still, she hesitates for only a moment before replying. "That's very kind of you," she says smoothly, smiling despite her wariness. "Do you often guard lone travelers, or is this the exception to the rule?"

So make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it
You've got no reason to be afraid

Lyra

Table inspired by the lovely Brit