Local Connections

The complaining had barely ended when wind swept up by the lake.

It did not blow in from the lake.

The wind pressed down from overhead.

The birds on the water suddenly scattered, fleeing in swarms to either side.

Dwun had just climbed to his feet when the wind shoved him back down, nearly sending him headfirst into the lake.

Razor reached out and hauled him back.

"Stand steady."

Dwun grabbed Razor's arm.

"I can't stand steady right now. Even my soul can't stand steady."

Bai Zhu looked up.

A gigantic swift descended from the clouds.

It was over ten meters long. When it folded its wings, the wind pressure flattened the grass and trees along the shore.

After landing, the swift stood more than a dozen steps away from Bai Zhu and lowered its head to preen its feathers.

Fine glimmers flashed between its blue-black feathers.

Milluki hugged his case and backed away.

"Don't tell me this is another Dog Tribe relative."

Bai Zhu looked at the giant bird, then lowered his gaze to the Blue Crystal.

The Blue Crystal flashed.

He fell silent for two seconds.

"I haven't expanded into the bird business either."

Piyu had already aimed her camera at Bai Zhu.

"Go over and try it."

Bai Zhu turned his head.

"Big sis, you really don't treat me like a person."

Piyu answered quickly.

"Don't worry, I'll make sure you look handsome on camera."

"Thanks. So my memorial photo will be high-definition, right?"

Bai Zhu took a breath and walked forward.

Milluki panicked.

"You're really going over there?"

"It's already pulled up to the door. Wouldn't it be rude if I didn't get on?"

Bai Zhu raised one hand and slowly moved it toward the feathers on the swift's forehead.

The giant bird lowered its head.