Galo freezes and stares at him in horror. The Lord of Dragons. His age doesn’t pass him by but it explains why he hadn’t understood how that changed things. Verbal agreement wouldn’t be enough. Proper respect has to be paid. “We...got to go to the grove!” He says and makes a hasty sweep of his hand. The trees move like a crowd parting to let them pass.

He shakes his head then straightens up and coughs. “We can work on the plants that need checked on in a second. You’re The lord of fire that means this partnership needs properly witnessed instead of verbal.” He gestures and the sigils on his staff ignite into the colors of the sunset. He turns and strides down the new pathway without a backward glance but he calls out,

“Never thought I’d get another pact tattoo but, life is full of surprises. Come on!” The trees all gently press at Lio’s back like a bunch of elders helpfully guiding a younger member of their ranks. Go on.

Follow the pretty man down the path.