Elara

After so many delays, finally we were off. I did not find the elf’s camp bad, but I knew we were burning precious time with each passing sunset. My Priestess would not leave without her cousin, no matter my protests. For the realms sake, I hope she was worth waiting around for.

Aurelia trotted gracefully through the forest, so similar to the jungles of the Azure Waters. I’d almost feel at home if it wasn’t for the man-sized centipedes, and horrifying screams that shook the deep forests at night. I guess it’s just a different type of jungle. I thought to myself, still focused on the path now appearing before them. Certainly when we return to the Cathedral we will have to make note of this forest’s—quirks.

After what felt like eons, we emerged from the thick canopy and felt the full power of the dual suns. I sheilded my eyes as I gazed out at the city walls only a few miles beyond us.

“Is that Everglade?” I asked the Elf.

“Yes, it is only a half day's ride.” He replied, swiftly turning his beautiful cockatrice around to face us.

“Thank you for leading us out of your forest,” I gave a half bow, the priestess doing the same behind me. I gave a flick of the reins and attempted to slide past but found myself blocked by the rattling tail of his mount.

“I actually require payment for letting you all mooch off me for the past month.” He said, a sly smile on his face.

What did this guy want from us?

“No way, I passed out. You tricked us into staying by saying it was important that you train me. What the hell could we give a fucking Demi-god? I already gave your father my welded soul.” Lyra’s words were spiked. At least she spoke her mind so I didn’t have to speak with my staff. I could take a Demi-god, at least long enough for The Priestess to get away safely on Aurelia.

“Hey hey, calm down cowboy. I just want to join your adventure to Sky Haven. My forest needs to replenish without my intervention. It will close itself off to any wanderers while I’m away, and if any get in the centipedes will get them anyway.” He said with a matter of fact tone.

“Join us?” I wasn’t opposed to him joining, after all a Demi-god would be useful on the bridge. Once we got beyond these city walls’ who knew what lurked, we needed all the help we could get. I looked back at the group.

Lyra seemed to be shocked by the request, and her friend, Kaelen, was it? He seemed to be ok with the request by the fact he was giving two thumbs up to show it.

“I think he should join, I rather like Mr. Thalas.” Elysia cooed.

“I agree.” Joined the chef.

I looked at Lyra, whose expression had gone blank. She took in a deep breath then said, “Yeah, why not.”

I turned to face the elf, “Fine. You can come along. But you must fight with us and must not betray Priestess Elysia. Is that understood?”

He gave me a wink with his emerald eyes glinting beneath, “You got it Ms. Warrior Princess.”

I sneered at the jab and pushed past his mount, making my way, finally, to the city of Everglade.