Life...was fun with Xephiria. He, an airax, would ride atop her head as they explored, or scout around the area and return to her and lead her through the wilderness. Their wonderful life together lasted for twelve years, and one short day changed it all.

They were exploring, as usual. Haiiuke went ahead to look for some berries to eat. He later regretted leaving her. When he flew back, he saw her disappear into a strange light, which closed itself after her.

He darted to the spot in a panic, his owner had disappeard! When he found no sign of her, he perched on a nearby branch and sat there, depressed.

He waited...and waited...he didn't know how long, on that branch. One night, he saw a glow, exactly where Xephiria had disappeared. It grew, larger, and larger. Without a moments hesitaion, he darted through the light, hoping to rescue his mistress and lead her home.

Instead, he crashed onto the ground on the other side. He got up, and then noticed it: he had changed. He first noted that he still had his wings. He had four legs now, and a long furry tail. He realized that he was like Xephiria, a xweetok. He opened his new paws and closed them again. He would find Xephiria, even if he had to travel through worlds looking for her.

It took him a while to get used to his new form. He wobbled a little, unused to walking on the ground. Experimenting with his larger wings, he shot up from the ground to get a view of the forest. Mountains soared to the clouds and their bases were painted by the grand forest. The clearing he had just been in was recognizable, so why was everything else different?

So he explored. Just like he had with Xephiria, except alone. So alone.

One day, his travels were halted because of a rainstorm. Haiiuke took cover under a tree, and waited for the storm to cease.

Then he saw something. A ghost, perhaps? He kept himself calm, and waited as she circled him. She looked curious, for some reason, then realization crept along her face. At the same time, he felt inside that he knew her, that she was an old friend, and he had only ever had one.

Haiiuke?! she said, surprised.

Yes, Xephiria?" There was no doubt in his voice; he knew that it was her.