~Day 166~

It was a pleasant and slow morning, there was no immediate urgency to leave as thanks to Gama we’d already be cutting off possibly months from our travel time. So, everyone was taking their time to board. Some wandered off to the fort to get some breakfast others just sat around talking. Personally, I took Alvir and Vinn off to one corner so they could play around a bit before we took off. I don’t know how often we’ll be setting back down after all.

I set myself down on a rock on the edge of the jungle to enjoy the sights of the desert, and my two pets playing in front of it. No one else was around, it was peaceful and quiet. I felt a calm smile make it’s way onto my face. Before I could truly relax however, I heard a quiet gust of wind from behind me.

“Lady Ellena.” A familiar voice called out to me.

With a short, yet deep sigh my smile vanished as soon as it got there. “Amenia.” I replied.

I heard a little rustling as the Elf came a little closer. “Lady Ellena. I told you to stay out of the Demon Continents affairs.” She whispered weakly.

I scratched my head still not turning to face her. “As far as I’m aware I haven’t gotten involved yet.” I grumbled.

Out of the corner of my eye I saw the vague figure of Amenia resting against the closest tree. “My superiors aren’t that stupid my lady. You’re on your way to the capital. We’re feeling very conflicted about that.” She told me.

“You bunch have no sense of privacy do you?” I growled. “If you’ve been watching me that closely you’ll also know our brothers at the capital too right?”

The Elf let out a troubled breath. “That’s precisely why we’re conflicted.” She replied.

I sat still my eyes fixed on Alvir and Vinn playing around in the sand. The sounds of the wind rustling the trees and snaking its way through the nearby dunes pierced through the air. To my right I could hear the vague chatter of our camp. “I really… Don’t understand you lot.” I finally ended the silence.

“Understand us milady?” She asked.

I finally turned to look at the Elf. Her clothes had been repaired to some extent, but she was clearly still suffering and seemed to have a few new injuries. “A race of intelligent powerful Elves who look over the entire world, see all its people, all it’s beauty and yet all you want to do is f*ck it over.” I replied.

Amenia gritted her teeth. “We’re trying to save the world!” She replied through controlled anger.

“Oh really? By doing what? Torturing and blinding your own people? Killing innocents? What exactly is that saving?” I asked containing my anger.

The blinded Elf in front of me held a fleeting expression of shock, before calming herself down. “You just… You don’t understand how much is truly at stake here milady.” She struggled to reply.

I sighed once again. “I already know this goes beyond just King Levias. I just wish someone would tell me how.” With a shake of my head I turned back to look at the desert.

“I’ve already said too much.” The Elf replied.

I let out a disappointed breath of air. Is it really too much to ask for someone to just tell me what exactly is going on? I can’t imagine anything that would make me side with the damn Light Elves though.

“Just… Please Lady Ellena. Do not get involved with rebellion. I’m begging you, none of us want to see you sad.” She pleaded with me.

A chuckle escaped my lips. “Don’t worry. I’m not stupid enough to put my friends lives in danger.” I answered her plead.

Amenias face lit up. “Does that mean, you’re just going to the capital to meet your brother?” She asked excitedly.

With a grin I turned my head to face hers. “I never said that.” I smirked.

The Elves eyes widened. “Milady… What do you me-” The Elf stopped mid sentence. Her ears pricked up, then out of nowhere she vanished. Just a few seconds later I heard a rustling of the bushes to my right as Gials face popped into view. “I’m not interruptin’ anythin’ am I missy?” He asked with a quizzical expression.

I shook my head. “No. Why do you ask?” I questioned him with a tilt of my head.

Gial scratched his beard, which had grown more and more unkempt since I’d met him. “Nothin’. Just thought I heard talkin’ is all.” He replied narrowing his eyes.

With a short sigh I stood up grabbing Skullcrusher as I did. “A little friend of ours came to have a chat with me again.” I told him as I began a slow walk towards Alvir and Vinn. Gial looked to the ground for a brief second, a meek smile just visible under his hat. Then, letting out a short snigger, he lifted his head up and jogged to my side. “I take it you’re here to tell me we’re leaving?” I asked the Dark Elf.

He raised an eyebrow before letting out a chuckle. “Yes ma’am. I was told to fetch ya, but don’t you think there are particular matters y’all need to be worrying about a bit more right now?” He asked me with a sideways glance.

With a long sigh I turned my head towards Gial. “I have no idea what I’m going to do.” I confessed. “I know what I have to do, I know what I should do, but I also know what that will cost.” I finished.

Gials smile turned sympathetic. “Miss. I’ve already told you. We’ll accept whatever choice you make. Even if that means…” The odd elf replied to me, trailing off at the end.

“Even if it means your death…” I finished Gials sentence. “What exactly would have been the point in helping your people live if I just sacrifice you later.” My brain was beginning to hurt. How long was I going to mull this over for? Surely nothing is worth sacrificing all these people for. Would the Light Elves even go for those we met on the Demon Continent? It seems like something they’d do.

I felt a palm reach up to the back of my head and gently rub the back of it. “It’s a lot of pressure to burden one young lady with, it has to be said.” The Elves voice was gentle.

For a moment, I enjoyed the feeling of comfort. It reminded of my childhood. All the ones I remember at least. Of course, this was a little different. Is this what it’s like to have an older sibling? Well… Of course not, I’m far older than Gial. At least if you count all my lives. Still, the Dark Elf does have a level of maturity I’ve yet to reach in this life.

I reached my hand around to my back and gently patted the Elfs hand. “Thanks Gial.” I replied to him with a soft smile. I wonder why Gial always seems to be the one that comforts me about this situation. I suppose I’m lucky that it’s him that keeps catching me really, I don’t want to have to burden the other with my whining.

A dull thud sounded as Gial slapped my back a few times. “Good girl.” He grinned. “Now come on. We best be leaving.” The Elf waved his hand as he turned back to the campsite. I could now see our crew beginning to board the platform that would be carrying us on the next leg of our journey.

Truth be told, underneath all my panicking about the Light Elves, there was a hint of excitement. Another pillar would be waiting for us at our destination, maybe one more knowledgeable about us than Venya or I. Not just that, but he’s our third sibling. Honestly, I have no idea what he’s going to be like, but that’s exactly why it’s so exciting.

“Are you ready, Pillar?” Gama’s voice pierced my wandering mind as we arrived. Gama now wore the harness connected to the ship and seemed eager to fly.

I looked up at the deck o the ship, it seemed like everyone was already ready, even Gial Alvir and Vinn were clambering on. I turned my head back to Gama and gave her a short precise nod before making my own way on to the raised platform.

When we were all safely on, the giant bird turned her head towards the south. “Alright. Let us depart.” She announced before flapping her huge wings.

The gust as she slowly began to take off battered us like a storm, but it wasn’t enough to knock anybody over. Although, when the whole ship began to lift up a long with Gama there were a few unstable legs. I began to wobble with the ship so quickly grabbed onto a nearby railing as we slowly lifted of the ground.

After a few moments, the ships rocking subsided as the ropes took the entire strain of the weight. Then, it was still. With a smile I looked around. We were flying, well and truly flying. The ground below was slowly growing more and more distant, I could make out the dungeon just across the jungle too. Looking up I could see the ship was trailing slightly behind Gama, which was to be expected. We were also beginning to pick up a lot of speed, yet the wind wasn’t too bad. That was probably thanks to the tall curved front of the ship barricading us from most of the wind.

I felt a hand tap my back and turned to see Aedi and Cadiz standing behind me. Aedi was beaming. “What do you think?” She asked with a grin.

I patted the railing I was standing near. “To be honest, it’s incredible.” I replied.

Aedi jumped up a little. “I know right. It’s like vooosh through the sky but we don’t have to worry about slaps from the wind. It’s way better than walking!” She replied doing an odd sort of semi-dance.

I let out a small chuckle before looking at Cadiz. “So what’s the plan exactly? How often are we going to land?” I asked her.

Cadiz gently rested her right arm on her left raising it up to her chin. “Well even Gama needs to rest and with the added weight she’ll have to stop every few days. Other than that we’ll be making a straight shot for the capital.” She told me with a sharp smile before turning away to look towards a certain Dark Elf. “Of course that leaves us stuck in the sky with just each other for the time being.” She grinned menacingly. “Anything could happen my dear.” She finished before walking slowly towards the same Elf.

Aedis smile turned to one of sympathy. “I feel sorry for your friend.” She told me. If that’s how Aedi of all people reacts to Cadiz showing interest in someone, I think I should probably also feel sorry for Gial. I think we all should.

For a while longer, I just sat resting my arms on the railings, with the wind in my hair I watched the ground fly by far below. This was a new experience, even for me. The ships back on Ein were nothing like this, they were too fast to enjoy the scenery. This ship however, was just the right speed.

Occasionally I would spot a group of Wolves, travelers or strange desert monster, but for the most part the vast empty desert was, well, empty. Looking into the horizon every which way sported only more visions of sand. Although once or twice I felt as though I saw another floating dungeon, but that could have been a trick of the light.

To he honest, this way of travelling was a complete luxury, the wind negated a large amount of the heat without being unbearable itself and thanks to the ship having multiple levels we could keep our food and drink cool inside.

It kind of irritates me that it took so long for Gama to decide to help us, but I suppose she had to be sure. I’m really not sure how much help Venya and I will be though, if I even do end up being able to help that is. We’re both strong, there’s no denying that. Possibly the two strongest members of this group, although there is a lot of debate to be had there. Still, I doubt even our strength can compare to what the Demon Queens strongest can offer. Perhaps our help is more something the Queens loyals can’t do in such a delicate situation. It seems as though wherever I go I just pick up more troubles.

As evening fell I had barely noticed, somehow becoming distracted by the sights for almost the entire day. I didn’t even notice the fact that someone had been cooking food. I found my way over to where the others were sitting and sat down to eat with them.

It was good food, but to be honest I’m starting to wonder if I’m just easy to please. I used to eat moss, so I don’t think I’m exactly fussy. Halfway through the meal though, Cadiz suddenly disappeared with her lightning fast speed. A few seconds later, we caught a glimpse of her on top of the Gamas back feeding her food. I didn’t really think about it, but how exactly does Gama usually eat when travelling like this. She said she’ll fly for several days straight, but does that also means she usually goes without food for that same amount?

After a few trips from Cadiz, Gama had finished quite a large meal. So I imagine she was feeling pretty satisfied. I was too, to be fair. Cadiz’ guards that had come with us could cook quite well. Still not the best I had had, but still good.

With dinner over, and night drawing in, we all headed to bed. I got a hammock just like the others, but they had modified it to be able to fit my large size. At the foot of my hammock were a couple of bundles of large cloth for Alvir and Vinn who take up a lot of room just by themselves.

The three of use managed to hold an entire corner of the ship to ourselves. I’m hoping, maybe in the future, I’ll perhaps evolve into something a bit smaller?

~Day 167~

In the belly of the ship, it was almost impossible to tell that we were flying through the sky. There was barely any rocking and almost no wind got inside. Thanks to that, I slept surprisingly well for my first time in the sky.

The same couldn’t be said for Odwiff however, who apparently didn’t get any sleep and was on the edge of ‘vomitin’ his fookin’ lungs out’ apparently. It seems as though the feeling had been growing since we first took off, but didn’t really hit him hard until he went to bed. He’s been ranting most of the morning about how flying through the sky is just unnatural for a Dwarf, he belongs on solid ground.

I did ask him how it was any different to sailing on the water and he claimed that at least then you have somewhere you can escape to, you can’t swim through the sky. Which is a good point, for whatever reason however, I find this way of travel much more to my liking than sailing by sea. Perhaps that’s something to do with my past life? I flew through the sky in various odd vehicles back then. Although that was in space.

Other than the constant worry of Odwiffs insides making their way to the outside, not much happened today. I thought maybe staring at the countryside would have become boring on the second day, but from up here there is always something new to see. That’s not to say I spent the whole day just staring at the ground. I spent some time with Odwiff, obviously. We all took turns just to help him keep going. After that I also spent a bit of time with Venya. We were talking about a few things, first about Ein, then about her future. After we find our brother, she said she doesn’t know what she’s going to do. The whole reason she was going to split with the rest of our group was to find him, but now she doesn’t really have a reason to go her own way.

I don’t really know why she can’t just stay with us. Is she worried she won't grow if she’s in such a big group? If that’s the case then I can understand, but that doesn’t seem to be the reason. I tried asking her, but she’s a bit evasive. In the meantime, she seems to be in a good mood, it’s just talking about the future that seems to put a gloomy look on her face.

We reached the end of the day with no real incidents occuring, Odwiff even managed to keep his lungs in the entire day and seemed to be settling down. Well, somewhat settling. Gama also informed Cadiz that she could keep going for another day, so we wouldn’t be landing until tomorrow, much to the old man's dismay.

~Day 168~

It was the start of our third day in the air. Gama informed us we would be stopping early afternoon for her to rest on the ground. I’m impressed that she’s managed to fly this long. She’s had almost a solid three days of flight whilst carrying this entire ship, that seems pretty incredible to me.

When we began to descend, something occurred to me. How exactly is this going to work? I decided to ask Cadiz as the ground inevitably grew closer and closer. She told me it would be exactly how we took off, but reversed. Which does seem simple enough.

Just as Cadiz told me, our descent slowed massively as Gama gently guided our ship to the ground. The smaller flat base of the ship touched the sand with a quiet thud as it dug into the granules. Then shortly after Gama landed swiftly in front of us.

There was no need to unpack much other than a few camping supplies, so I helped with that grabbing firewood and bedrolls. Alvir carried most of the rest in his harness, which was a bit tight now since he evolved again. I probably need to adjust that at some point. Over by Gama a few of Cadizes guards were working on getting her harness off. They had placed a big bucket of clean water that Gama was happily lapping up.

As I turned to go back up to the ship, I heard the muffled sound of people talking nearby. Not surprising really, considering I was surrounded by people, but this was coming from behind the ship. Curious, I slowly crept towards the sound hiding myself at the back end of the ship.

“Well why are you telling me lass?” I heard an old voice say. It was clearly Odwiff, I would recognise his voice anyway.

Who is he talking to? “I can’t! What if it makes her hate me or something?” The other voice replied. It clearly belonged to Venya. What are they talking about I wonder?

Odwiff sighed. “Don’t be ridiculous lass. You know she’s not like that.” He scolded her.

Venya let out a frustrated grunt. “But it’s so f*cking hard. I’m not good with emotions!” She exclaimed.

I really do want to know what they’re talking about. It’s alright to step in right? “What exactly did you need to tell me?” I asked emerging from the shadows.

“F*CK A DUCK!” Venya yelled nearly jumping out of her skin.

Odwiff rubbed the bridge of his nose and shook his head. “I think what ya’ sister was trying to say, is it’s surprising to see you.” He told me before slapping Venyas back. “Now come on lass. Don’t you have something to say?”

Venya stepped forward, timidly twirling her fingers. “Well y’see. The thing is Ellena. It’s about why I want to go my own way.” She said glancing up at me.

So it was about that? What reason could make me hate her? Is she sick of me or something? “Wel-Well, what is it?” I asked a little flustered.

The frog-like monster in front of me was being awfully timid, which was odd for her. “Well you see. The reason I want to go my own way is.. Uh. Well basically. I- I want to stop living under your shadow!” She finished wincing her eyes shut.

I blinked a few times. “Under my shadow?” I asked looking over at Odwiff who nodded with a shrug. I tilted my head. “You were under my shadow?” I asked confused.

Venya opened her eyes blinking whilst Odwiff grasped his face with the palm of his hand. “Are you shitting me? Of course I am!” Venya raised her voice with frustration.

I was a little taken aback, I had no idea she felt like that, why would she feel like that? “I uh… I never meant for you to feel like that.” I replied drooping my head.

Odwiff shook his head. “Oh lass…” He sighed.

I felt soft arms wrap around my body. “It’s not your fault Ellena and I’m not mad at you for anything.” Venya said taking one of her arms and lifting my chin up. “It’s just. I’m a pillar too, I need to be strong and I can’t if I just follow you around.” She smiled sadly.

My heart sunk a little. I guess people do talk to me over her a lot and I suppose I am always left in charge, but I’m the older sister aren’t I? It’s my job to look after her. I lifted my eyes and looked Venya in the eye. There was so much conviction there, I couldn’t exactly get upset at her either.

With a sigh I nodded my head. “I understand. Just… Be careful…” I replied.

A big grin spread across my sisters face as she slapped her hand on my back. “I won’t be leaving until we reach the capital so don’t go saying goodbye yet, y’here?” She beamed.

Oh yeah. I sort of forgot about that, that’s kind of embarrassing. “Good point.” I chuckled rubbing the back of my head.

Venya gave a satisfied single nod before walking past me. “Now, I’m gonna go help out, you comin’?” She asked.

“Yeah. I’ll be right there.” I replied with a quick smile.

The Frog girl shrugged and made her way around the corner. When I was sure she was gone I turned to Odwiff with watery eyes. The Old Dwarf said nothing but waved his hand at me to kneel down then brought my head into his chest. “Thank you.” I muttered.

“You can cry if you want lass.” He told me, his voice filled with sympathy.

I chuckled. “It’s not like I’ll never see her again. This isn’t anything worth crying over.” I replied.

Odwiff gently patted the back of my head, before clearing his throat. “Y’know lass, I’m perfectly happy comforting ya, but I’m afraid these horns of yours are making this a bit difficult.” He chuckled gently.

My eyes burst open wide as I reared back, looking at his cheek I could see the dent of where my horn was resting, I bowed my head quickly. “I am so sorry!” A yelp escaped my lips.

The Old man just laughed at me. “Come on lass, they’re not exactly sharp, don’t worry about it.” He told me, patting my shoulder as he walked past me. “Now come on, we’ve got to help out too.” He finished with a wink.

I let out a deep breath of air before coming to my feet and following after the Dwarf. It seems as though I’m not the only one that relies on Odwiff for advice and comfort, does he just act like a dad to everyone? Honestly though, that wouldn’t surprise me.

There wasn’t much left to do by the time Odwiff and I came to help out. So within a few minutes the camp was set up and dinner was underway. I thought it would be a good idea to try and fight something to hunt since none of us had done any kind of training for a few days. I took Alvir and Vinn with me, although Vinn didn’t seem to want to get involved again.

Although to be honest it didn’t really matter, the desert was so empty that we only managed to find one Wolf and it just seemed to want to play. Which I suppose is thanks to my Wolfmother skill. I could see something quite large wandering around it the distance, but to be honest I don’t think Alvir and I have time to go chasing after giants in the desert. Besides, it’s difficult to determine the strength of something like that, or the actual size for that matter.

We wondered back to camp after having no more luck and settled down for dinner. Venya seemed like she was back to normal, but I think I caught her glancing my way a few times. Still, as the older sibling I have to respect her decision, even if I can’t entirely understand it.

After we finished our food, the alcohol was released, Cadiz happily used plenty of our storage space for wine and ale. So we had a bit of a party which I’m sure will end up with a few hangovers. Even Gama got involved. That night, everyone went to bed a little later than expected.

~Day 169~

Finally, it was time to meet the one I would be working under. Judia Blackale. I was stood right outside of the captain's quarters on 211th pathfinder company's command ship. Also known as the ‘Black Arrow’ apparently. What kind of naming sense was that? Just because she’s ‘Blackale’ her ship has to be black something too?

I took a deep breath to try and keep my composure before knocking gently on her door. After a few seconds I heard the sound of quick shuffling and a throat clearing cough. “You may enter.” A voice from inside called out.

Without a pause the door opened to reveal the woman herself, but it wasn’t exactly what I was expecting. The office was a complete mess. Different wordpads lay all over the floor, there were bits of paperwork too even though such a thing was rarely practised today. Books games and clothes also littered the place although much closer to her private area than her office. Of course that was only what I could see from outside her private room, who knows what it’s like inside. Finally my eyes settles on the young Dwarf sitting infront of me who wore a forced smile. It’s not hard to see why.

She brought her hands together and attempted to compose herself. “Excuse the mess, I’m still in the process of moving in. You must be Lieutenant Commander Anya. Am I correct?” She asked.

I bowed my head. “You are Ma’am. And you must be Commodore Blackale.” I replied stiffly. Dwarfs prefer being known by their family names for some reason.

Blackale close her eyes nodding her head. “That’s right.” The young Dwarf took a deep breath. “I won’t beat around the bush Anya. I know what the situation is here and I know you’re probably not happy about it.” She said looking me in the eye. “But like it or not I am your commanding officer and you will obey me.” She finished narrowing her eyes, challenging me.

After a few seconds I smirked. “That was never out of the question. I will follow my orders like a good soldier.” I replied before stepping forward. “However. If, you get any of the men under my command killed for a reason I don’t like you’ll know about it.” I placed my hands on the Dwarfs desk.

A bead of sweat ran down her face as she reared back slightly. “D-don’t think you can threaten your commanding officer so easily, human.” She fought back standing to her feet. Which wasn’t that threatening when you consider her size. “I know all about why you’re here. You think I’m any happier than you about you being posted here? A murderer in my crew?” She growled. “You’d best watch it’s not you putting our men in danger.” She finished.

I squeezed my fist, gripping the metal table below me as it moaned struggling under my fist. I took a deep breath gritting my teeth before standing back up. “I… Understand ma’am. I will be careful not to ruin your expectations.” I replied calmly.

The Dwarf looked bewildered as her gaze switched from me to her desk, which had two distinct hand prints embedded into it. “Y-yes. Well, as long as you behave we’ll have no problem.” She was clearly disturbed, yet she still spoke with some conviction.

I suppose I’ve scared her enough, my original goal was just to see how well she would behave under stress, but she made me genuinely angry. So perhaps I went too far? Or maybe not far enough. Still, she can mostly hold her cool. Still… It’s not enough, not yet. This girl could have the makings of a great commander, I just have to draw it out.

Still… She p*sses me off. “Do I have permission to board my ship and inspect my crew?” I asked with a forced politeness.

Commodore Blackale seemed to come back to her senses for a moment. “Huh? Oh, yes of course. You’re dismissed.” She told me waving me away. I bowed my head and left for the door. “Uh. Before you go. May I ask what you might be calling your ship? You have been given that right after all.” She asked me.

What sort of question to ask when you were just terrified a minute ago. A fast recovery time maybe? Still what will I call it? I suppose I have thought about it and really there’s only one thing that springs to mind. I turned my head back to my new Commander and looked her in the eye. “Redemption.” I replied.

My eyes fluttered open. Huh. Since when was I in a desert? I sat up and looked around. Ah, I forgot. These memories are getting vivid. Well of course they are they’re memories. “You alright miss?” I looked to my right to see Gial lying nearby.

It took me until then to realise I was sitting up. “Uh, yeah. Just a memory that’s all.” I replied before getting out of my bedroll.

Gial smiled weakly in his half asleep state. “It’s been a while since ya last. Y’know ya can go back to sleep, the suns barely started risin’.” The elf told me.

I smiled back at him shaking my head. “I’m awake, might as well make us of it.” I told him as I finished rolling up my bed.

Gial shrugged before turning to his other side. “Suit yourself.” He yawned.

After I was done clearing away my sleeping area, I grabbed Skullcrusher and made my way away from the camp. I greeted the guards on shift as I walked past as they seemed surprised to see anyone up already.

I spent the next few hours wandering around looking for something to fight, staying close enough to the campsite to be able to at least see it. If I don’t try and do this every time we land I’m going to get rusty. Luckily I had a bit more luck this time over last night. I managed to find a rather grumpy giant worm. It’s body must have been about twenty foot long.

I had a nice little tangle with that creature, but to be honest it was kind of weak despite it’s pretty large size. I imagine it is difficult for a worm to be powerful, they’re not exactly know for it.

Still my thoughts were if there’s one there’s got to be more, so I spent the rest of the morning scouring the desert floors. I did find one, but even with that extra second kill I only got up one level in total. Still it’s better than no levels and at least it wasn’t a total loss.

By the time I returned to the camp breakfast was already well underway and a few of our men were reattaching Gamas harness. I jogged over to those left over who were moving everything back onto the ship.

“Dune Burrowers lass. Those were Dune Burrowers.” Odwiff told me after I explained where I’d been.

I sighed. “They were kind of disappointing, even more so with that name.” I told him as I lifted a few barrels of ale on to my shoulders.

I heard Cadiz chuckle nearby. “Oh darling, if only demon farmers could hear you say that.” She replied.

I tilted my head. “What do you mean?” I asked.

Cadiz patted me on the back. “Do you sometimes forget not everyone is as deadly as this little group here.” She asked motioning to our group.

“Come to think of it I suppose it would have been quite dangerous to a normal human.” I replied after a sudden realization.

She shook her head. “To a normal anything, my dear.” She corrected me before walking off chuckling to herself.

Odwiff patted the side of my leg. “Power is somethin’ you’ll never get used to aye lass?” He asked me.

I shrugged my shoulders. “I thought I already was.” I replied.

The Dwarf grinned lifting up another barrel. “That thought process is just proof.” He winked.

I picked up the final barrel in the camp and caught pace with him. Proof of what? That I still don’t know my own power. Well I do at least know that much, I’m just not good at scaling it compared to the norm. So that must be what he means.

It wasn’t much longer until everything was ready for our second take off. We had all finished breakfast and were all waiting patiently on the deck of the ship. Odwiff had prepared himself somewhat more carefully this time as he didn’t want a repeat. I doubt it’s going to change much though, you won’t get over flying sickness in just a few days.

So without any further delay, Gama took off from the ground, lifting us as she did so. It was still an exciting feeling and watching the ground slowly get further and further away from us was just as beautiful.

Unfortunately, judging by the fact that Odwiff ran off holding his mouth it’s safe to say he is not yet over his sickness. Not that I can judge considering I could have dealt with ocean travel a bit better.

The rest of the day passed by peacefully. I had a small chat with Venya about my last dream, but she couldn’t tell me too much more about Blackale. It seems as though my feelings at that time weren’t off though, she did at least eventually become a good leader. I get the feeling it wasn’t a quick improvement though.

Even as nighttime rolled around however, Odwiff was as usual having a bit of trouble. The hammocks most of the men were using for beds were already quite good for offsetting the swaying of the ship, but just to be sure he could sleep comfortably the Dwarf had been devising a way of making the completely offset it. Tonight would be his first test run, he had made a sort of complicated system with various gears and ropes, it wasn’t exactly my expertise. I fell asleep with a smile on my face, wishing him the best of luck.

~Day 170~

A success! Or at least a partial one. The old Dwarf managed to fall asleep quite happily, of course he kept a bucket by his bedside just in case. The reason I say it was only a partial success however, was that after he woke up, he just felt even more ill. Something about switching from the comfort and stillness of the hammock to the rocking of the wind battered ship just did not sit well with his stomach. Needless to say he skipped breakfast.

When I had finished my breakfast and made my way to the deck of the ship, I noticed even more people than usual were watching the ground pass us by. It seems as though we were flying over a quite visually pleasing canyon. For some reason deep down in the shade of the canyon an abundant jungle grew.

“It’s beautiful isn’t it?” A voice came from my right side.

“Lason?! You’re up and about.” I grinned at the soldier next to me. He was standing, which he hasn’t been able to do since we met up with him. He was using a crutch, but he was still standing.

The soldier chuckled. “Just about.” He replied motioning to his crutch. Behind him stood Kuuli and Bear who waved gently. The soldier looked down at the jungle, when he did his smile turned a little sadder. “You know, I heard you talking yesterday. About the Dune Burrowers, It got me thinking about things.” He told me.

I tilted my head. “What do you mean?” I asked.

He looked over at his friends. “Us three. We’re considered strong, very strong back home. Much stronger than a regular human. Yet none of us would last five minutes on our own in that jungle down there. It’d be filled with terrifying monsters.” He then looked to me. “Then you compare us with people like you, Cadiz or the Captain… It’s like comparing Ants to Wolves.” He sighed.

I knitted my brow. “I still don’t really understand…” I replied.

Lason let out a sigh. “It’s just… Disheartening you know? Can effort ever trump talent?” He asked before sighing again.

I hesitantly put my arm against his back and patted it gently before looking up at the other two. They both held a similar look of sympathy. “I’m sorry… I- I didn’t mean to make you feel that way.” I tried to assure him.

Lason looked up at me and shook his free hand. “No, no. I’m not trying to blame you or anything Ellena. Just… I was thinking that after I recovered I might just stick to where I can be helpful, back at home protecting the citizens. You know?” He smiled glumly.

My eyes drifted down to his crutch then back down to the canyon below. “So are you saying when Lord Avalas heads home you’re going to stay there even if the others are sent somewhere else?” I asked.

Lason nodded. “Yeah. I mean, they should really have a few stronger soldiers stay around home to help protect it anyway to be fair. Of course I’ll need to ask the Captain and Lord Avalas first, but you know what they’re like.” He chuckled.

A breath of air escaped my lips. Those two, I can’t imagine them forcing a man to fight. Although Hawkwood is a captain so maybe… “What about you two?” I asked them.

Kuuli seemed startled then looked to Bear and back to me. “W-well. I mean, I can certainly relate to Lason, we both can, but… The fight against Lavias? That’s something that comes once in a lifetime, I’m not gonna miss that no matter what.” She said grinning. “Course. That doesn’t mean I’m not just going to sit on the sidelines and watch.” She finished chuckling.

Lason nodded his head, his free hand stroking his now stubbly chin. “That’s not a bad idea, maybe I’ll come and watch too.” He laughed.

I can understand that, but I was thinking about more than just that. What if the peace talks go badly and they end up going to war with the Empire or even any of their neighbours. These times are difficult and whilst I can understand him wanting to stay home, is that really a luxury we can afford? Weaker than us or not, Lason is still a phenomenal fighter and we need as many of those as possible on the front line.

I pinched my forehead. Honestly, what am I thinking. Lason almost died to get here and I want him to keep fighting? How heartless can I be? “Ellena, you alright?” Lason asked tapping my arm.

I took a short breath. “Yeah, yeah I’m fine. My mind was just wandering that’s all.” I replied to him.

A sad smirk jumped onto Lasons face. “Are you disappointed?” He asked.

I looked him in the eye then turned back to watch the scenery. “That’s not quite it.” I replied. “It’s more along the lines of guilt.”

“It’s not like any of this is your fault?” He said tilting his head with a very confused look.

My lips curled up as a chuckle escaped them. “I suppose not, but unfortunately that’s just how my heart works.” I replied looking at him with a smile.

The beaten soldier smiled back, still looking a little confused, but satisfied. Then he looked like he remembered something. “Oh hey. We were going to go play some cards, you want to join us?” He asked.

Cards, huh? I suppose it’s a good way to pass the time, although I must admit I’m not very familiar with most card based games. I shrugged my shoulders. “Sure, I’ll join you, but you’ll probably have to teach me the rules to whatever it is we’re playing.” I grinned.

The game we played was a little thing Bear learnt from an old friend whose ancestor was reincarnated from Earth. The game was called ‘New Market’ and was popular with the ancestors family in his previous life. It was an interesting game, although I have to admit with my small knowledge of cards it may have been one of the more boring games and I had no idea.

Still we played the game for quite a few hours and a few others even got involved. Odwiff stayed for an hour or so along with Gial and for some reason Wrok decided to just watch us for a while.

Turns out usually the game is played with coin, but they didn’t want to put pressure on a new player like me, so we played just for fun. Which is a good thing to be honest as I was pretty hopeless at the game.

When we were finally done with the game, it was only a few more hours until dinner. I decided that it was time I tried doing something a bit more productive on this trip. So I called Alvir over with my supplies and started thinking of something to do. However, to my surprised Alvir actually requested something.

Seems as though he wants a saddle attached to his harness. I’ve never known anything to actually want to be a mount. I’m definitely too big to ride him, I’m sure he could take the weight, but it might look a little ridiculous.

He has been getting on quite well with Aedi recently, so perhaps it’s part of them playing. Or maybe he just likes the idea of being a warriors mount, who knows. Still it gives me something to do and it’s not exactly like I have anything against the idea. I need to adjust his harness anyway since he’s gotten a little bigger.

So for the next few hours I got to work on that, although to be honest that wasn’t enough time to do much of anything. I managed to adjust the harness, but that was the easy part. Starting tomorrow I’m going to get to work on the saddle. I’ve seen saddles before, but I’ve never ridden a horse or any other creature, so I’m not too sure on how to make it work. It’s probably not too hard though.

Before I went to bed, I drew up plans for the saddle with a little help from a barely coping Dwarf. Dwarves aren’t known for using mounts either, but as craftsmen they’re some of the best around. So I think we managed to come up with a solid design that hopefully mean beings of varying size would be able to use it. Of course, I can’t say for certain until it’s done, but that might take a short while. With a solid plan both on paper and in my head. I went to bed.

[Name: Ellena Orcsbane]

[Age: 169 Days]

[Species: Arbor Ferrous, Dryad]

[Height: 7'-6"]

[Sex: Female]

[Title/s: Kin of Ellephwen, Wolfmother, Slayer.]

{Level: 60] +1

[Health: 52445/52445] +590

[Mana: 8614/8614] + 92

[Stamina: 39300/39308] +389

[Hunger: 38999/39308] +389

[Attack: 35104] +378

[Defence: 62558 + 22000] +685

[Magic Attack: 9388] +81

[Magic Defence: 18096] + 145

[Skills:

[Pain Resistance lvl 10 (Max)] [Poison Resistance lvl 8] [Mind Resistance lvl 2]

[Venom Resistance lvl 8] [Lightning Resistance lvl 5] [Paralysis Resistance lvl 4]

[Night vision lvl 10 (max)] [Amplified Vision lvl 9] [{Mushroom Helmet lvl 72}]

[tough stomach lvl 8] [Unarmed Combat Expert lvl 9] [Polearm Expert lvl 5]

[Demifoot lvl 10] [Warriors Heart lvl 50] [Warriors Will lvl 36]

[Warriors Strength lvl 42] [Greater Regeneration lvl 8] [Guardian lvl 10 (Max)]

[Dryads Charm lvl 17] [Skinning lvl 5] [Tanning lvl 4]

[Leatherworking lvl 7] [Carving lvl 3] [Earth Magic lvl 9]

[{Wolfmother lvl 17}] Up! [{Pillars Aura lvl 15}]Up!