The One

GAR

Gar watched Tarkyn closely as the male organized his people. He didn't trust that the Captain would keep his hands off her, and given her fears, no way was he letting any other male touch her. Tarkyn gave him a challenging look more than once, but he didn't breach the space between them.

Rika was restless watching them discuss who would return with her to the Tree City, and who would go after the other humans. She kept looking behind them, searching the forest, until finally Gar realized the horse thing was gone.

"He'll be fine," he muttered quietly. "Horses aren't a food source for Anima. As long as he's learned about the silent predators, he'll be safe around here. He's too big for most of them."

Rika nodded, but her forehead still wrinkled into lines. "He's the only friend I had for a month," she said finally, quietly. "The only thing that's come with me from home."