Chapter 37: Continuation of the journey, West Kora part 1
Kai, 25 years old, carefully arranges his belongings in his backpack and suitcase. He double-checks his equipment, making sure that his camera has enough battery and memory, his notebook has enough pages and pens, his weapons are clean and loaded, and his supplies are sufficient and fresh.
He also gives a final glance at Zal, his loyal dragon companion, who is resting on the balcony. He strokes his scales and horns, and feeds him some meat and water. He adjusts the harness and saddle on his back, and attaches a small camera to his neck. Zal shape shifts his to become bigger because he wants to be more comfortable and help Kai in the journey. He smiles at him and says that they are about to embark on another exciting journey.
Kai wears a camouflage outfit that blends well with the natural environment. He has a green jacket with multiple pockets, a brown vest with bullet holders, a pair of khaki pants with knee pads, and a pair of black boots with steel toes. He also wears a hat with a wide brim and a pair of sunglasses to protect his eyes from the sun.
He has a belt with a holster for his gun, a sheath for his medium sword, and a pouch for his phone. He also has a backpack with straps for his camera and notebook, and a suitcase with wheels for his specimens and books. He looks like a professional hunter and researcher, ready to explore the unknown.
Kai walks towards his family, who are waiting for him at the front door. He sees their smiling faces and feels their warm love. He hugs his parents, who are both hunters and assassins. His father, Silva, is a 3-star hunter and the head of the Zoldyck family, a renowned clan of assassins and mercenaries. His mother, Kikyo, is a 2-star hunter and a skilled sniper and hacker. They tell him that they are proud of his achievements and supportive of his goals. They also remind him to be careful and to contact them regularly. They give him some advice and tips on how to deal with different situations and dangers. They also give him some money and gadgets as gifts. Kai thanks them for their generosity and kindness, and tells them that he loves them.
He hugs his siblings, who are also hunters and adventurers like him. His older brother, Illumi, is a 2-star hunter and a master of disguise and manipulation. His younger sister, Alluka, a possessor of a mysterious power that can grant wishes. His younger brother, Kalluto, is a user of paper origami techniques. They tell him that they admire his passion and curiosity. They also tease him about his rivalry with Killua, and challenge him to surpass them as well. Kai thanks them for their encouragement and humor, and tells them that he misses them.
He hugs his grandfather Zeno, who is a 4-star hunter and a legend in the hunter world. He is an expert in martial arts and nen, and a former leader of the Zoldyck family. He tells him that he is happy to see him grow up into a fine young man. He also tells him some stories and secrets about his past adventures and discoveries. He gives him some books as gifts. Kai thanks him for his wisdom and inspiration, and tells him that he respects him.
Kai looks at his family one last time, feeling grateful and nostalgic. He waves goodbye to them, promising to return soon with more stories and treasures. He walks towards the train station with Zal, feeling excited and hopeful for his journey.
Kai spots Killua, his twin brother and rival, who is waiting for him at the train station. He sees his spiky white hair and piercing blue eyes, and notices his casual and cool outfit. He walks towards him with a grin, and greets him with a punch on the shoulder. Killua returns the gesture with a smirk, and welcomes him with a hug.
"Hey, bro. Long time no see. How have you been?" Kai asks.
"I've been good. Just traveling around the world with Gon and having fun. How about you?" Killua replies.
"I've been great. Just collecting rare and exotic specimens from different regions and writing books about them. You know, the usual." Kai says.
"Wow, you're such a nerd. Don't you ever get bored of that?" Killua teases.
"Hey, remember among the two of us who the genius in nen and martial arts? oh wait, that's me." Kai teases back.
"Besides, you're one to talk. Don't you ever get tired of chasing after Gon?" Kai retorts.
"Hey, don't be jealous. Gon is my best friend and partner. We have a lot of adventures and challenges together. Besides, he's way more interesting and fun than your dragon." Killua says.
"Hey, don't insult Zal. He's my loyal companion and friend. We have a lot of discoveries and research together. Besides, he's way more powerful and cool than your skateboard." Kai says.
They both laugh and shake their heads, knowing that they are both joking and fond of each other's choices.
"So, are you ready for our new challenge?" Kai asks.
"You bet I am. I've been waiting for this for a long time." Killua answers.
They look at each other with determination and excitement, and remind each other of their challenge: To see who will discover, explore and complete missions more in the next year. They decided to change their challenge after they reunited during the chimera ant crisis, where they fought side by side to exterminate the dangerous creatures. They realized that their previous challenge was too easy and boring for them, so they agreed to spice things up by adding more elements of adventure and competition.
They shake hands and make a vow to do their best and to keep track of their progress. They also agree to meet again in a year at the same place, to compare their results and to declare the winner.
"May the best hunter win." Kai says.
"May the best Zoldyck win." Killua says.
They smile and hug each other, feeling happy and motivated for their challenge. They wish each other good luck and safety, and board their respective trains. They wave goodbye to each other, looking forward to their journey.
Kai enters the train that will take him to the border of Kora, a land of nomads and adventurers. He finds a seat near the window and places his backpack and suitcase on the rack above him. He sits down and relaxes, feeling the train start to move. He looks out the window and watches the scenery change from urban to rural, from familiar to foreign. He sees buildings and streets give way to fields and forests, from concrete and metal to grass and trees.
He feels a surge of excitement and curiosity, eager to explore this new territory and learn more about its culture and wildlife. He hopes to encounter some of the legendary warriors and shamans of Kora, who are known for their bravery and wisdom. He wonders what they look like, what they do, what they believe in. He also hopes to join them on their quests, to experience their lifestyle and to share their adventures. He thinks that it would be a great opportunity to improve his skills and to expand his knowledge.
He also thinks that it would be a great way to complete some hunter missions along the way, to increase his rank and reputation. He takes out his phone and checks the hunter website, looking for any available missions in Kora. He sees a few that catch his interest, such as hunting a rare beast, finding a lost artifact, or Find and destroy bandit camps. He bookmarks them for later, planning to apply for them once he arrives in Kora.
He puts his phone back in his pocket and takes out his camera. He turns it on and starts taking photos of the scenery, capturing the beauty and diversity of nature. He also takes some selfies with Zal, who is sitting next to him on the seat. Zal looks bored and sleepy, but he humors Kai by posing for the camera. Kai smiles and hugs him, thanking him for being his companion and friend.
He puts his camera back in his backpack and takes out his notebook. He opens it and starts writing some notes about his journey so far, recording his thoughts and feelings, his plans and goals, his discoveries and achievements. He also writes some poems and stories inspired by his experiences, expressing his creativity and imagination. He enjoys writing as much as he enjoys hunting, finding it relaxing and rewarding. He writes for a while, until he hears an announcement that they are approaching the border of Kora.
He closes his notebook and puts it back in his backpack. He grabs his backpack and suitcase, and gets ready to get off the train. He wakes up Zal, who yawns and stretches. He tells him that they are almost there, and that they should prepare for their next adventure. Zal nods and follows him, feeling excited as well. They walk towards the exit, joining the other passengers who are also heading to Kora.
They reach the door and step out of the train, feeling a gust of wind on their faces. They look around and see a large station with many signs and guards. They see a crowd of people with different clothes and faces, speaking different languages and dialects. They smell a mix of aromas from different foods and spices, hearing a blend of sounds from different music and instruments. They feel a sense of wonder and anticipation, ready to explore this new land of nomads and adventurers.
Kai walks towards the border station, holding his hunter license in his hand. He sees a line of guards wearing uniforms and helmets, holding rifles and scanners. He approaches one of them and shows him his license, smiling politely. The guard scans his license and checks his identity, nodding approvingly. He stamps his license and hands it back to him, saying "Welcome to Kora, hunter. Enjoy your stay."
"Thank you, sir." Kai says.
He walks past the guard and enters the station, looking for his local guide. He sees a sign that says "Guides for Hire", with a picture of a compass and a map. He follows the sign and reaches a booth, where he sees a young man wearing a leather jacket and a bandana, holding a clipboard and a walkie-talkie. He has dark skin and hair, and bright green eyes. He smiles and waves at Kai, saying "Hey, you must be Kai. I'm Remy, your guide. Nice to meet you."
"Nice to meet you too, Remy. I'm looking forward to exploring Kora with you." Kai says.
"Great, me too. I'm sure you'll love it here. Kora is a land of wonders and mysteries, of freedom and adventure." Remy says.
He takes Kai's suitcase and puts it in a cart, saying "Come on, let's go. I have a car waiting for us outside. It will take us to the nearest tribe of Kora, where we'll spend the night."
"Sounds good. Let's go." Kai says.
He follows Remy to the car, carrying his backpack and camera. He also leads Zal to the car, who walks beside him. They reach the car, which is a jeep with four seats and a roof rack. Remy puts Kai's suitcase on the roof rack, securing it with ropes. He opens the door for Kai, saying "Here you go. You can sit in the front seat. Zal can sit in the back seat."
"Thank you." Kai says.
He gets in the car and sits in the front seat, buckling his seat belt. He also helps Zal get in the car and sit in the back seat, making sure he is comfortable. Remy gets in the driver's seat and starts the engine, saying "Alright, we're ready to go."
He drives out of the station and onto the road, heading towards Kora. He turns on the radio and plays some music, saying "This is some traditional Kora music. It's called kora too, like the name of our land. It's made with a stringed instrument that looks like a harp."
"It sounds beautiful." Kai says.
"It is. Music is very important in Kora culture. It's a way of expressing our emotions and stories, our hopes and dreams." Remy says.
He drives for a while, passing by some fields and hills. He points at some landmarks and tells Kai some basic facts and tips about Kora, such as their language, customs, beliefs and dangers.
"Kora is divided into four regions: North Kora, South Kora, East Kora and West Kora. Each region has its own climate and landscape, its own tribes and clans, its own specialties and traditions." Remy says.
"Which region are we going to?" Kai asks.
"We're going to West Kora. It's the most diverse and dynamic region of Kora. It has plains and mountains, forests and deserts, rivers and lakes. It has many tribes and clans that are constantly moving and interacting with each other. It has many specialties and traditions that are unique and fascinating." Remy says.
"What are some of them?" Kai asks.
"Well, for example, West Kora is famous for its warriors and shamans. They are skilled in combat and magic, using their spears and spells to protect their people and land. They are also adventurous and curious, exploring new places and seeking new challenges." Remy says.
"That sounds amazing." Kai says.
"It is. You'll see for yourself soon enough." Remy says.
He drives for another hour, until they reach the border of West Kora. He stops at a checkpoint, where he shows his ID card to another guard. The guard lets them pass without any trouble, saying "Welcome to West Kora."
"Thank you." Remy says.
He drives into West Kora, saying "Here we are. Welcome to West Kora."
Kai looks out the window and sees a different scenery from before. He sees more colors and shapes, more variety and contrast. He sees green plains with yellow flowers, blue mountains with white snowcaps, brown forests with red fruits, orange deserts with black rocks.
He sees animals that he has never seen before, such as horses with wings that soar in the sky, their manes and tails flowing like streams of light, their hooves leaving trails of sparks, their neighs echoing like thunder. He sees antelopes with horns that glow in the dark, their fur shining like stars, their eyes reflecting the moon, their leaps graceful like ballet, their bleats musical like bells. He sees wolves with stripes that blend in the shadows, their coats changing colors like chameleons, their teeth sharp like blades, their paws silent like ghosts, their howls haunting like nightmares. He sees eagles with claws that pierce through metal, their feathers hard like steel, their beaks strong like hammers, their wings fast like jets, their cries fierce like sirens.
Remy: "Do you see those animals over there? They're unique to West Kora. They're called winged horses, glowing antelopes, striped wolves and metal eagles. They're very rare and beautiful, but also very dangerous. You should be careful around them."
Kai: "Wow, they're amazing. I've never seen anything like them before. Can you tell me more about them?"
Remy: "Sure. Winged horses are the fastest and most agile animals in West Kora. They can fly in the air and run on the ground with ease. They're very loyal and intelligent, and they can bond with humans who earn their trust. Some of the warriors of West Kora ride them as their mounts, and they're very proud of them."
Kai: "That's awesome. I'd love to ride one someday."
Remy: "Maybe you will, if you're lucky. Glowing antelopes are the most beautiful and mysterious animals in West Kora. They can glow in the dark and change colors depending on their mood. They're very shy and gentle, and they can sense emotions and intentions. Some of the shamans of West Kora communicate with them as their guides, and they're very respectful of them."
Kai: "That's amazing. I'd love to talk to one someday."
Remy: "Maybe you will, if you're kind. Striped wolves are the most cunning and stealthy animals in West Kora. They can camouflage themselves and blend in with their surroundings. They're very fierce and loyal, and they can hunt in packs or alone. Some of the nomads of West Kora live with them as their companions, and they're very protective of them."
Kai: "That's cool. I'd love to befriend one someday and maybe make one of the puppies as a pet that I can bring."
Remy: "Maybe you will, if you're brave. Metal eagles are the most powerful and majestic animals in West Kora. They can pierce through metal and fly at high speeds. They're very proud and independent, and they can dominate the sky or the land. Some of the adventurers of West Kora admire them as their idols, and they're very inspired by them."
Kai: "That's awesome. I'd love to see one up close someday."
Remy: "Maybe you will, if you're adventurous."
He sees people that he has never seen before, such as warriors with spears that sparkle with magic, shamans with feathers that whisper with spirits, nomads with tents that change colors and shapes, adventurers with backpacks that contain wonders and secrets.
He feels a sense of wonder and excitement, eager to explore this new territory and learn more about its culture and wildlife. He hopes to encounter some of the legendary warriors and shamans of West Kora, and maybe even join them on their quests. He thinks that it would be a great opportunity to improve his skills and to expand his knowledge. He also thinks that it would be a great way to complete some hunter missions along the way, to increase his rank and reputation.
He takes out his camera and starts taking photos of the scenery, capturing the beauty and diversity of West Kora. He also takes some selfies with Zal, who looks more alert and interested. He smiles and hugs him, thanking him for being his companion and friend.
He puts his camera back in his backpack and takes out his notebook. He opens it and starts writing some notes about his journey so far, recording his thoughts and feelings, his plans and goals, his discoveries and achievements. He also writes some poems and stories inspired by his experiences, expressing his creativity and imagination. He enjoys writing as much as he enjoys hunting, finding it relaxing and rewarding.
He writes for a while, until he hears Remy say "We're almost there. We'll be there in 10 minutes."
He closes his notebook and puts it back in his backpack. He looks out the window and sees a large campsite in the distance, with many tents and fires. He sees some people moving around the campsite, doing various activities. He sees some horses grazing near the campsite, and some spears standing near the tents.
"Is that the tribe we're going to?" Kai asks.
"Yes, that's them. They're called the Wind Riders. They're one of the most famous tribes of West Kora. They're known for their speed and agility, their courage and loyalty, their exploration and adventure." Remy says.
"They sound awesome." Kai says.
"They are. You'll like them." Remy says.
He drives towards the campsite, saying "Here we go. Let's meet the Wind Riders."
Kai arrives at the campsite of a tribe of Kora, who greet him warmly. He sees a large circle of tents made of leather and fur, with colorful patterns and symbols. He sees a fire pit in the center of the circle, with a large pot of stew and a pile of bread. He sees some people sitting around the fire, chatting and laughing. He sees some others doing various tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, mending, or playing. He sees some children running around, chasing each other or playing with animals. He sees some horses tied to wooden posts, munching on hay or drinking water. He smells the aroma of the stew and the bread, mixed with the scent of smoke and grass. He hears the sound of the fire and the people, mixed with the sound of music and drums.
Remy leads Kai to the fire pit, where he introduces him to the tribe leader. The tribe leader is an old man with long white hair and beard, wearing a robe made of feathers and beads. He has a staff in his hand, decorated with bones and shells. He has a necklace around his neck, made of teeth and claws. He has a tattoo on his forehead, shaped like a spiral. He has a piercing gaze and a gentle smile.
"Hello, traveler. I'm Tala, the leader of the Wind Riders. Welcome to our camp." Tala says.
"Hello, Tala. I'm Kai, a hunter from East Kora. Thank you for your hospitality." Kai says.
He bows respectfully to Tala, who nods in return.
"It's our pleasure to have you here. We always welcome guests who come in peace and friendship." Tala says.
He gestures to Kai to sit next to him by the fire, saying "Please, join us. We're about to have dinner. You must be hungry after your long journey."
"Thank you, that's very kind of you." Kai says.
He sits next to Tala by the fire, feeling warm and cozy. He also helps Zal sit next to him, making sure he is comfortable as well.
Remy sits on the other side of Kai, saying "Here you go. This is our traditional stew. It's made with meat, vegetables, herbs and spices. It's very delicious and nutritious."
He hands Kai a bowl of stew and a piece of bread, saying "Enjoy."
"Thank you, Remy." Kai says.
He takes the bowl and the bread, and smells them. He feels his mouth water, and takes a bite. He tastes the flavors of the stew and the bread, finding them rich and satisfying. He smiles and nods, saying "This is very good."
Tala smiles and says "I'm glad you like it. This is our way of showing our gratitude and respect to our guests. We share our food and our stories with them."
He takes a sip from his cup, which is filled with a dark liquid that smells like herbs.
He says "This is our traditional drink. It's made with water, honey and kora leaves. It's very refreshing and energizing."
He hands Kai a cup of drink, saying "Try it."
"Thank you, Tala." Kai says.
He takes the cup and drinks it. He feels the drink go down his throat, finding it sweet and bitter at the same time. He feels a tingling sensation in his body, feeling more alert and relaxed.
He smiles and nods, saying "This is very good too."
Tala smiles and says "I'm glad you like it too. This is our way of showing our trust and friendship to our guests. We share our drink and our secrets with them."
He leans closer to Kai, lowering his voice.
He says "Do you know what kora leaves are?"
Kai shakes his head, saying "No, I don't."
Tala says "They are special leaves that grow only in West Kora. They have magical properties that can enhance your senses and abilities. They can also open your mind to new possibilities and realities."
He winks at Kai, saying "They can also make you see things that others can't see."
Kai raises his eyebrows, feeling curious and intrigued.
He says "Really? Like what?"
Tala says "Like spirits."
Kai gasps, feeling surprised and amazed.
He says "Spirits?"
Tala nods, saying "Yes, spirits. The spirits of nature and life that dwell in everything around us. The spirits that we shamans can communicate with and learn from."
He points at his tattoo on his forehead, saying "This is my spirit mark. It shows that I'm a shaman of West Kora."
He points at his staff in his hand, saying "This is my spirit tool. It helps me channel my magic and connect with the spirits."
He points at his necklace around his neck, saying "This is my spirit trophy. It shows that I've met and befriended many spirits in my life."
He looks at Kai with a serious expression, saying "Do you want to see the spirits, Kai?"
Kai looks at Tala with a curious expression, feeling tempted and excited.
He says "Yes, I do."
Tala smiles and says "Good. Then drink more of this drink, and follow me. I'll show you the spirits of West Kora."
He stands up and walks towards the edge of the campsite, where he sees a large tree with a hollow trunk. He gestures to Kai to follow him, saying "Come on, let's go."
Kai stands up and follows Tala, feeling adventurous and hopeful. He also leads Zal to follow him, feeling protective and loyal.
He drinks more of the drink, feeling more tingling sensations in his body. He walks towards the tree, wondering what he will see.
He reaches the tree and sees Tala enter the hollow trunk, saying "This is the spirit portal. It will take us to the spirit realm. Are you ready?"
Kai nods, saying "I'm ready."
He enters the hollow trunk, feeling a rush of wind on his face. He sees a tunnel of light in front of him, leading to somewhere unknown.
He follows Tala into the tunnel of light, feeling excited and nervous.
He hopes to see the spirits of West Kora, and maybe even join them on their quests. He thinks that it would be a great opportunity to improve his skills and to expand his knowledge. He also thinks that it would be a great way to complete some hunter missions along the way, to increase his rank and reputation.
He enters the spirit realm, feeling a sense of wonder and anticipation. He sees a different world from before, with more colors and shapes, more variety and contrast. He sees a sky with multiple suns and moons, a land with multiple terrains and climates, a sea with multiple islands and creatures. He sees plants that he has never seen before, such as flowers that sing, trees that dance, vines that glow. He sees animals that he has never seen before, such as birds that swim, fish that fly, insects that talk. He sees people that he has never seen before, such as fairies that sparkle, giants that roar, elves that smile.
He also sees spirits that he has never seen before, such as spirits of fire that burn, spirits of water that flow, spirits of earth that grow, spirits of air that blow. He sees spirits of animals that guide, spirits of plants that heal, spirits of people that teach. He sees spirits of light that shine, spirits of dark that hide, spirits of life that thrive.
He feels a surge of awe and curiosity, eager to explore this new world and learn more about its culture and magic. He hopes to encounter some of the legendary spirits of West Kora, and maybe even join them on their quests.
He follows Tala through the spirit realm, who shows him some of the wonders and secrets of this world. He introduces him to some of the spirits that he knows and trusts, who welcome him warmly. He teaches him some of the skills and traditions of the shamans of West Kora, who respect him kindly.
He also helps Zal through the spirit realm, who is amazed and confused by this world. He protects him from some of the dangers and enemies of this world, who threaten him harshly. He comforts him with some of the joys and friends of this world, who cheer him softly.
He spends some time in the spirit realm, feeling happy and fulfilled. He takes some photos and samples of the spirit realm, finding them rare and valuable. He also writes some notes and stories about the spirit realm, finding them fascinating and inspiring.
He enjoys his time in the spirit realm as much as he enjoys his time in the physical realm, finding it relaxing and rewarding.
He stays in the spirit realm for a while, until he hears Tala say "It's time to go back. We've been here long enough."
He looks at Tala with a sad expression, feeling reluctant and disappointed.
He says "Do we have to? I'm having so much fun here."
Tala nods, saying "We do. We can't stay here forever. This is not our world. We belong to the physical realm. We have to go back to our camp."
He looks at Kai with a gentle expression, feeling understanding and sympathetic.
He says "Don't worry. You can come back here anytime you want. You just have to drink more kora drink and follow me. I'll show you more of the spirit realm."
He smiles at Kai, saying "You've done very well today. You've seen things that most people can't see. You've learned things that most people can't learn. You've made friends with things that most people can't make friends with."
He hugs Kai, saying "You're a natural shaman, Kai. You have a gift for magic and spirits."
Kai smiles back at Tala, feeling grateful and honored.
He says "Thank you, Tala. You're an amazing shaman too. You have a talent for teaching and guiding."
He hugs Tala back, saying "You're a great friend, Tala. You have a heart for kindness and generosity."
Tala says "Thank you too, Kai. You're welcome here anytime."
Kai nods, saying "Thank you too."
They let go of each other and walk towards the spirit portal, where they see a tunnel of light leading back to the physical realm.
They enter the tunnel of light together with Zal, feeling a rush of wind on their faces.
They exit the tunnel of light together with Zal, feeling a gust of air on their faces.
They return to the physical realm together with Zal, feeling a sense of nostalgia and satisfaction.
Kai looks at the tree with the hollow trunk, feeling curious and fascinated.
He says "Tala, can I ask you something?"
Tala says "Sure, what is it?"
Kai says "Can I bring a sampling of the kora tree with me? I want to drink more of the kora drink from kora leaves. I want to see more of the spirit realm."
Tala looks at Kai with a surprised expression, feeling impressed and amused.
He says "Wow, you really like the kora drink and the spirit realm, don't you?"
Kai nods, saying "Yes, I do. They're amazing."
Tala says "Well, I can't blame you. They are amazing indeed."
He looks at Kai with a thoughtful expression, feeling hesitant and cautious.
He says "But you have to be careful, Kai. The kora drink and the spirit realm are not for everyone. They can be dangerous and addictive. They can affect your mind and body in ways that you may not expect or want. They can also attract unwanted attention from things that you may not like or fear."
He looks at Kai with a serious expression, feeling concerned and responsible.
He says "Are you sure you want to do this, Kai? Are you ready for the consequences?"
Kai looks at Tala with a determined expression, feeling confident and adventurous.
He says "Yes, I'm sure. I'm ready for anything."
Tala looks at Kai with a proud expression, feeling admiring and supportive.
He says "Alright then. I respect your decision. You have my permission to bring a sampling of the kora tree with you."
He smiles at Kai, saying "But you have to promise me something."
Kai says "What is it?"
Tala says "You have to promise me that you'll use it wisely and sparingly. You have to promise me that you'll respect the kora drink and the spirit realm. You have to promise me that you'll remember who you are and where you belong."
Kai nods, saying "I promise."
Tala says "Good. Then let's do it."
He walks towards the tree with the hollow trunk, holding his staff.
He says "Follow me."
Kai follows Tala to the tree with the hollow trunk, holding his knife.
He says "Okay."
They reach the tree and see a branch with some leaves.
Tala points at the branch, saying "This is what we need. This is a kora branch with kora leaves. They're fresh and potent."
Kai looks at the branch, saying "I see."
Tala says "Here's what we're going to do. We're going to cut off a small piece of the branch with our tools. We're going to wrap it in some cloth and put it in your backpack. We're going to do it quickly and quietly, so we don't disturb the tree or attract any spirits."
Kai says "Alright."
Tala says "Are you ready?"
Kai says "I'm ready."
Tala says "Let's do it then."
They cut off a small piece of the branch with their tools.
They wrap it in some cloth and put it in Kai's backpack.
They do it quickly and quietly, without disturbing the tree or attracting any spirits.
They finish their task and look at each other, feeling accomplished and excited.
They say "We did it!"
They high-five each other, feeling happy and proud.
They return to the campsite together with Zal, feeling a sense of belonging and happiness.