Wonderful,” Astarion drawled, his tone as sharp as his fangs. “Wandering aimlessly through the wilderness, with no clue how many leagues lie ahead. How thrilling.”


    likely,


    They’d been off the beaten path for weeks now, far from travelers or enemies—those rare few who didn’t disgust him—who might have satisfied his needs.


    <hr>


    Sena asked, relieved that his mood had lifted enough for a bit of humor.


    Astarion rolled his eyes.


    gravitas.


    <hr>


    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    I was under the impression myconids couldn’t survive on the surface. At least, not for long.” He paused, studying its faint glow. “Perhaps the young ones are different…”


    look at it,” she said, crouching slightly as it squeaked and tilted its spongy cap toward her. “How can you say no to that?”


    <hr>


    The trio began searching the area where the sprout had first appeared. Gale, with a touch of whimsy, quickly dubbed it “Mossfoot.” Sena, finding the name a bit too formal, shortened it to “Mossy,” which earned a smile from Gale and a dramatically exaggerated eye-roll from Astarion.


    Wonderful. First names, then nicknames. Shall we draft it into the party next?


    Clearly, it’s decided you’re its parent,” Gale quipped. “Who knew you’d make such a nurturing figure?