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Our hands and feet worked together, finding purchase on the grooved surface, with Madison guiding the way.

As we tiptoed across, my eyes caught the breathtaking view of the horizon.

The sun, a fiery ball of radiant gold, began its ascent into the sky, casting a warm, orange hue over the misty landscape.

Mist,I thought.Definitelynotfog.

The vivid colors painted the morning sky in shades of coral, purple, and gold.

I took a deep breath, the early morning air crisp and fresh, tinged with the musky scent of the old building.

The rhythmic cooing of a distant bird punctuated the silence, the sound gentle and soothing, while the gentle rustling of leaves in the distance became a soft accompaniment.

The world seemed to be holding its breath, the stillness before the rush of the day ahead.

Madison’s fingers felt warm and reassuring in mine, her skin soft against my scales. “Almost there,” she whispered, her breath leaving a trail of mist in the chilly air.

The anticipation, a mixture of adrenaline and hope, was overpowering.

As we reached the edge of the roof, Madison pointed towards a window — the entrance to Anlon’s room.

My heart raced, the familiar thud echoing in my ears.

While Madison seemed trusting of the old Chi, I couldn’t help the nagging feeling of doubt.

Onshev had proven himself devious and underhanded, and there was no telling if Anlon was in cahoots with him.

Helping Madison through first, I then maneuvered my way into the dimly lit room.

The earthy scent of age and history filled my nostrils, a comforting reminder of the many places I had visited throughout the galaxies.

Anlon was seated on an ancient looking chair, his crusted horns and wizened face a testament to the many years he had weathered.

His one good eye, a deep shade of amber, regarded us with curiosity but devoid of any malice.

Madison went up to him, her tone gentle. “Anlon, this is Lorik.”

He nodded, extending a clawed hand.

I hesitated for a moment before shaking it, the texture of his skin rough against mine. “I’ve heard much about you,” he rasped, his voice like sandpaper. “Madison speaks highly.”

Relief washed over me, but I remained cautious. “I appreciate your help, but I need to know, are we safe here? Onshev…”

Anlon let out a dry chuckle. “Ah, Onshev. A thorn in my side for many moons now. He thinks he can intimidate an old Chi like me.”

He glanced towards a dusty cabinet, its contents hidden from view. “I have ways to keep pests like him at bay. This is my home, and I won’t let him tarnish it.”

I could feel Madison’s fingers squeeze my arm, a silent gesture of reassurance.

She leaned in, her voice soft. “We need a way out, Anlon. Can you help us?”

The old Chi paused, his amber eye scanning us both, seemingly gauging our sincerity.

Didn’t he remember he had already agreed to help us?

And if he forgot about that, what were the chances he would recall the way out of here?

The room grew still, the weight of the moment palpable.

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