497 Pegg

GAR

Gar had almost forgotten about the creature. He'd scented it more than once when they'd been getting to know each other, but he'd never been introduced until they were on their way to the Tree City. Now, inhaling the thing's scent, it occurred to him that this was a male—and a strong one. Whether Rika knew it or not, his attachment to her might be beyond the purest of motives.

Gar didn't think the thing had a human form—it's scent was oddly similar to the Anima, and yet… not. Unlike his people, there was no mingling of scents that could be discerned if you were paying attention.

This creature was a creature, but clearly an intelligent and emotional one. A silent one? Perhaps. But one that—

"Tell him to back off. I know he has claws."

The deep, breathy voice almost sent Gar straight into the sky.

The thing could talk?!