Alex managed to break free from Alera's overly enthusiastic embrace, catching his breath and adjusting his clothes as her strength had nearly flattened him.
As he straightened up, he noticed Lilith giving him an amused, if slightly annoyed, looks.
He cleared his throat, a bit embarrassed, but quickly turned his attention back to Alera.
"Actually, Alera," he began, "I wanted to ask you about something specific. Do you know any ways to help level up a companion, like a pet?"
Alera's gaze turned curious, but before she could answer, a dark shadow appeared above Alex, casting the whole area in a sudden dimness.
Alphox materialized as soon as he heard the word "pet", his massive, scaly form hovering right over the group.
"A DRAGON!" one of the fox women screamed, pointing with wide eyes.
"THAT'S A PRIMORDIAL DRAGON!" Another fox girl dropped her food and bolted.
Panic spread quickly through the entire tribe.