The two arrived to Eagle Clan. Noa united with his mother and with Soona and Anaya. He carried Mae into his hut to keep an eye on her over night and Soona made her some ginger tea. She began to feel better as morning broke. Mae enjoyed seeing Noa so happy to be with his family again.

Mae watched Noa walking in the distance with Soona and Anaya. She took the opportunity with her new energy to take a walk in the forest. She crunched on an apple as the fresh air lifted her mood. She took deep breaths.

She walked in the tree light with no concept of time, grateful for her body aches to have now lifted.

Noa walked past Mae's hut to find it empty. He asked a few clan members if they had seen her as worry grew in his heart. One had pointed in the direction of the forest line. His heart quickene as he raced in the direction.

Mae coughed as the wind picked up. The trees rustled in the bush. She gasped as an ape stepped out. She froze.

"Hmm what's a nova doing out here alone?" The ape's voice was deep and menacing, she realised he was likely not one of Eagle Clans. Her heart pounded.

She turned to run. The ground shook as the ape was quickly in front of her.

"Long live Proximus. Time to get rid of you little pest." He punched the ground before pushing Mae roughly. She rolled multiple times across the ground, gasping heavily in pain.

She looked up as the ape raised his fists above her.

"Get away from her!" A roar broke through the air as the ape suddenly disappeared. Noa growled as he rolled in a grapple , hitting the ape multiple times.

The fight continued, Noa and the ape throwing multiple hits.

Mae turned and sprinted, fear overtaking her. She pushed her arms and legs furiously, feeling slower than normal with her flu.

Suddenly, strong furry hands gripped her arms. She screamed a piercing scream.

"It's me, it's me!" Noa grabbed her shaking body, his eyes scanning for injuries.

Mae gasped heavily, her eyes wide. "Noa. Are you okay!" She panted, looking into his warm eyes.

Noa looked incredulous. "You were the one just attacked. Did he hurt you?"

He rubbed her arms protectively.

Mae shook her head , her heart finally slowing.

"You are safe he's gone". Noa said slowly.

Mae hugged him as he paused in surprise. He embraced her back with his large arms.

"You cannot go out alone. It is not safe. With me, you are safe." Noa said his voice soft. Mae smiled.

"Thank you."

The two walked close together back towards the clan, Noa scanning behind them routinely.

"Noa, maybe you can teach me self defence?" Mae said lightly and playfully, walking in front of him.

He frowned deeply. "To defend yourself from ape?" He questioned.

Mae nodded. "Yes, then you won't have to help me all the time." She said seriously.

Noa stopped. "You are no match for ape strength. And I will allow no harm to come to you." Mae smiled at his honesty.

They continued walking.

"Mae? You are no burden." Noa said kindly, rubbing her shoulder warmly.