Chapter 111: Vending the Shins

The flying carriage glided smoothly through the night, its path lit by the soft glow of the moon. Inside, Vanyr and Sorin sat in silence, the adrenaline from their recent heist still thrumming through their veins. The vending machines were securely fastened in the back, their prize from the daring raid.

Vanyr looked out the window, the landscape below a patchwork of shadows and silvery light. "We've done it," he said quietly, more to himself than to Sorin. "We're almost home free."

Sorin nodded, his eyes scanning the horizon. "Let's not celebrate too soon. We need to get these machines to the hideout without any more surprises."

Just then, a sudden, discordant cry shattered the calm. "Uwarkrk! Uwaarrk!!"

Both men turned to the front of the carriage, where the magical raven-like creature that was pulling their vehicle began to thrash in its harness. Its wings flapped wildly, its cries piercing the night.