Chapter 160: Eyes Locked

{Melisa} 

The morning sun bathed Javir's garden in a warm, golden light. 

Melisa sat on a stone bench, feeling about fifty times heavier just from the weight of everything. Next to her, Armia tried to lean on Melisa for support, but... well, given their size difference, it was very awkward. 

Off to the side, Isabella and Kimiko stood close together, the kitsune's fluffy tail occasionally brushing against her mother's leg, as if reassuring herself that Kimiko was still there. Raven lurked in the shadows... which meant she was standing around in her usual stoic, half-brooding way, her grey eyes alert and wary. Javir paced back and forth, her sunlight-colored hair catching the light with each turn.

[What a fucked up situation,] Melisa thought, her red eyes scanning the faces of her friends.