Sweiza makes a muffled noise. She twists once. She lets out a “mph!”, and quickly wakes up. She sees the ceiling of the room. At first she thinks she is at home in her room due to the wood, but it doesn’t look the same. In fact, the room looks quite different. It is smaller and someone has moved all of her stuff. Sprite might move an item or two (if she mentions it, something she really needs), but nothing to this degree. Regardless she will have to have a talk with… it then occurs to her. The ship, “Sterling Blue”. She sits up in the bed and looks for a window. The moon Lokul is in the distance and the stars are out. She hears the ripple of water against the hull of the ship. She quickly removes herself from the covers and has to feel her way around in the room, it is dark, very dark, but just enough to barely see. She calls out for Sprite.

“Sprite!”

She continues feeling around and knocks into something. It is wooden. She hears a clunk and a “Hey!”.

The whole room suddenly illuminates with light blue light. Sweiza’s eyes strain against the light, but adjust soon enough. Her eyes dart to the area of the room where it is brightest. An odd aura surrounds the sprite, a light blue glow. It flows around him and manifests the light from before. A puff of the light appears as a flame and shoots towards Sweiza. Her eyes close as it hits her harmlessly.

“What’s the big idea?” Sprite bobs up and down, very quickly, his heart racing. His bobbing slows as he calms down. It takes Sweiza a few seconds to think of what to say.

“Sprite, we’re on the ship right? This isn’t another dream by demi?”

“Who?” The light around him flickers and dims at the distraction, but it picks up in brightness soon enough.

“Sprite, I’m glad you came along.” Sweiza reaches out her hand to pet him and he darts away. She smirks her mouth in disappointment at him and instead holds it out. He still refuses to come up to her. She makes a come hither motion with her hand and he still refuses. She lets out a chirp and he quickly obeys. He quickly flies in front of her knowing the routine - he illuminates the way. This isn’t the first time he has been on some form of adventure with her.

Sprite slowly moves towards the door, waiting for the girl to open it. Once in the hall, they find it is very crowded. Not what Sweiza is expecting from a ship, Sprite on the other hand has seen this before from his days wandering for food.

“This way.” He flies fast down the hall and past several doors. A pair of stairs, another hall. He hears a whistle. He halts and turns around to see Sweiza disappear behind a door just closing. He flies up to it and his wings flutter in annoyance. He hears a flush and rolls his eyes. As she comes out, she is greeted to him standing at eye level with his hands on his hips as his body slowly floats up and down.

“Are you done?”

“Yes Sir Herschel.” She bows. He flutters his wings in anticipation and flies in the opposite direction down the hall. Another set of stairs and a smaller hall and they find themselves out on the main deck towards the rear. A few deck hands are busy cleaning the deck and working on rigging. The smell burning wood and sausage greets them. Sweiza whistles just as Sprite flies off and he quickly darts back to her. His body language showing he doesn’t know what she wants; she simply shakes her head letting him know this is not the time. She scans the deck and sees a familiar sight - Verdandi in her armor. The woman is at the very front of the ship just offset the right side of the bow. Sweiza can barely make it out, but she has her arms outstretched holing a spyglass at eye level. Sweiza remembers the conversation with the Captain earlier and mention of pirates. She can only guess Verdandi is on guard duty for the night.

Verdandi hears a set of footsteps from behind her, but doesn’t give it much attention. Her focus is on the horizon with the spyglass. The dark night makes it hard to see, but thankfully the moon Lokul is almost in full bloom. A throat clears behind the woman and she lowers the spyglass and turns around to see Sweiza and Sprite waiting a few steps down from her.

“Anything interesting?” Sweiza pipes up with some enthusiasm.

“Miss Serif, if you are going to wander the ship you should begin your duties.”

“How long was I out?” Sweiza pipes up again, ignoring Verdandi’s suggestion.

“Most of the day, as was I. It has been a long trek to get here. How do you feel?”

“Tired.” Sprite is the first to pipe up, finally getting some confidence around the woman.

“I wasn’t referring to you Sir Dewey Herschel.”

The Sprite lets out an annoyed chirp and quickly turns his back to the woman and crosses his arms. He looks back behind him at her and quickly snaps his head away from her. Verdandi ignores his behavior.

Sweiza’s hands come up to chest level as she folds them together. “I was surprised it was nighttime.”

“I’m sure you were. However, again as instructed before - if you are going to walk the ship with nothing to do, you have duties you can attend to.” Verdandi’s hands finally come down to her sides and the spyglass brushes her leg.

“Can I help you with looking for pirates?” Sweiza shows more enthusiasm as she cracks her knuckles. In her mind, this is going to be a fun journey after.

Verdandi pulls her lip to the right and raises her eyebrows in minor disgust. “Miss Serif. You are not yet a full fledged Valkyrie. You have training ahead of you and this journey will take ten days. Training on a ship will be a good start for you. I want you to ask the crew if they need help with anything. Your other activity for the day is to perform one thousand cuts. The latter you can do daily.”

Verdandi’s arms cross as Sweiza’s expression changes to disbelief and then disappointment. The girl goes to open her mouth and Verdandi cracks the spyglass against her greaves. “Now Miss Serif!”

Sweiza’s hands go down to her hips in defiance. Her heart lurches as Verdandi steps down from the viewpoint at the bow. If ever her ears could droop they would. Verdandi becomes a formidable sight before the girl as she looks her straight in the eyes, mere inches from her face. Verdandi’s eyes shoot over to Sprite as she points the spyglass up at him. He jolts and flies behind Sweiza. Verdandi’s eyes shoot back to Sweiza. Sweiza continues her stare of defiance, visibly shaking. She lets out a yelp as she feels the spyglass make contact on her left hip, just barely touching her behind.

“Now!” Verdandi says it with annoyance. Sweiza tenses up and then bows several times and scurries off. Verdandi crosses her arms and shakes her head slowly at the girl. She lets out a sigh and steps back up to the bow. Again the spyglass is held outright as she scans the horizon.

—

“Sprite.” Sweiza says it to him under the main mast of the ship. He flies in front of her and lets out a chirp.

“I suppose it would be assuming too much that if we give the ship a once over and see nothing wrong, then our tasks for the day are complete?” She says it with some joking enthusiasm, if not a little hopeful.

“She seems serious. She will probably be quite stern with both of us…” He puts emphasis on ‘us’, “…if you do not do as she asks. You should probably learn to find your way around the ship before you ask any of the crew for help. You do not want to get lost or put anything out of place. I for one, do not want to incur that Valkyrie’s wrath again; especially not because of you.” He lets out a chirp as a matter of fact at her as his hands go to his hip sand he thrusts his feet and head out at her. She frowns and gives a nod. His point made, he flies up to her shoulder and sits himself down.

The two take their time as they explore the different areas of the ship. The total venture takes them about two hours, but Sweiza mentions that it is to “learn the different areas of the ship, as well as kill a little time.” The two learn that the ship has three under decks - two for living, and a cargo hold at the bottom. Sweiza makes a point to see the inside of the hold at a later time before the end of their journey. Once above deck, they find there are three upper decks - the main deck of the ship from the bow to the rear, with a large cabin area housing the main galley and kitchen area, and then the Captain’s cabin and ‘special guest’ quarters above that. Above the two decks is a third, which is effectively the helm area of the ship.

At the helm, Sweiza immediately asks for permission to steer the ship. The helmsman informs her that she must get special permission to do so. The Captain sees no problem with it provided she is supervised the entire time. She finds the affair rather boring once it comes down to it - two hours of steering straight with the helmsman looking occasionally speaking into a series of pipes to either side of the steering wheel. When enquiring about their use, she learns they are used for speaking to various people across the ship. The helmsman explains that two particular pipes in particular, lead to the ‘crows next’ and the bow of the ship.

Unable to resist and on instinct, she immediately speaks into the pipe for the bow of the ship and gets a rude answer back from Verdandi, “not to waste time and to pay attention”. For good measure, Sweiza sticks her tongue out at the talking pipe. She gets no response back and cocks her head up while giving a ‘hmph!’. Sprite motions behind her, and when she looks behind her, she sees several of the crew watching her behavior. Her face flushes read and she quickly turns back to manning the helm.

Over the course of the next half hour, the the pain of her feet standing and the doldrums of standing stiff and staring out at the ocean get to her. All she sees is clouds and blue hues all around. She lets out a yawn and feels her head slump once. As her head slowly nods up and down, she feels a tap on her shoulder to finally rouse her from her nap. The helmsman informs her that she has been asleep for at least two minutes standing. She lets out a gasp and quickly focuses on the horizon again.

She speaks into the speaking tube for the crow’s nest. She gets a simply answer that “there is nothing to report at this time.” She lets out a sigh of dismay and continues holding the helm straight. She mutters to herself that she “wishes she could sit down.” The helmsman has a chair ready for her and the girl gives a thankful sigh as her job gets a little easier. About an hour later, she hears a voice from the crow’s nest speaking tube.

“Merchant vessel, due north, five miles.”

Sweiza looks over to the helmsman whom wastes no time in walking up to her. He leans towards her ear and whispers to her, “Respond with, ‘confirmed, maintaining current heading’.”

Sweiza does as directed and hears a “Confirmed, continuing lookout.”

She lets out a sigh at the excitement as it turns back to doldrums and boredom. She makes due with rocking the steering wheel back and forth, making sure to maintain the same course at all times. The stiffness of sitting still, even in a chair, finally gets to her. She checks her watch and sees a little over an hour has passed. She thinks to herself that surely there is something more exciting than turning a wheel all day. Outside of the merchant ship, she only remembers having to turn the ship hard once, and that is simply because they were following the coastline, even if from about ten miles out. Having enough, she stands up abruptly, faces the helmsman and bows before excusing herself. He lets out a quick grin as she quickly scurries away.

She has another goal in mind, something that might provide something interesting - the crow’s nest. Climbing the rigging seems easy enough, but her motions attempting to wrangle her way up, catches the attention of several deckhands. They show her the correct way to climb up. She does so and finds herself at the top with the lookout. He finds some of her questions to be weird, her Sprite friend even weirder. However, Sprite pipes up that she is a Valkyrie in training and wishes to learn how to sail a ship. This brings some enthusiasm from the lookout, although it means Sweiza shoots Sprite a nasty look when the lookout isn’t looking. Sprite just shrugs and grins at her.

Sweiza’s main question is how it is possible to see anything at night like it is. He explains that at any given time, they use the stars and constellations to navigate. He promises to show her how to use a star chart as well as a map at a later date - preferably outside of his ship. He goes on to say that there are various lights on ships, including the Sterling Blue, which signal their location to other ships. Further, there are different waypoints and lighthouses that frequently appear along the coast of Midgard to signal how far inland they are. He makes it a point to bring up that they are ten miles out due to the wind currents being better here; it will be better for them to avoid smaller pirate ships that prefer to lurk along the coast. He also shows her a spyglass, this one much bigger and larger than the one Verdandi is using. He explains this one hooks into different brackets to hold the weight, but the brackets can still be turned to aid in seeing from afar. During the day, they may only be able to see ten to twenty miles in either direction, but at night, they can see upwards of forty miles depending on how bright the lighting of ships and shore structures are. Sweiza simply lets out an “Oh.” The lookout simply laughs at her expression and comments, “Sailing isn’t for everyone.”

Sweiza spends an hour at the crow’s nest before bidding the lookout farewell and climbing back down. This time she uses rope ladder she hadn’t noticed before. It is much more stable and easier to climb down, namely being braced close to the mast.

As she gets back down to the main deck, she suddenly feels squeamish in her stomach. Her gag reflex kicks in. She recognizes this. She has heard of it as sea sickness and knows what to do. She runs over to the side of the ship and repeatedly attempts to throwup, but all she gets is her gag reflex. This goes on for a few moments before she pulls herself back up over the side of the ship. She sets herself down to a befuddled cross-legged position. She finally props herself up with her right arm and lets out a shudder. She feels one more jolt from her gut before deliberately shuddering at her predicament. This is not going to be a fun journey after all.

She staggers her way up to the bow of the ship. She asks how to alleviate the motion sickness from the ship’s movements. Verdandi mentions that “It will be a few days before your body gets used to it. Take a break or rest up as needed. You have ten days, so make the most of it.” Sweiza abruptly turns around and leaves Verdandi to her devices, not bothering to ask her for anything else.

Sprite flies up to Sweiza and suggests that perhaps the crew can whip up something to aid her in her predicament. When she enquires as to what he means, he suggests something to dull her senses. It takes Sweiza a few moments to figure out what he is suggesting. She narrows her eyes at him, knowing full well he will want to ‘sample’ some of the beverage. She shakes her head and heads for the kitchen.

In the galley she is surprised at just how big her mug of mead is. No matter, this special commonality of Valhalla will do just the trick. Sprite drops subtle hints and she refuses him. Eventually he lets out an annoyed chirp. She finally relents and he is served a small glass of it. She loses count of how many drinks between them. However, it helps with her gut’s wretched feeling. Now she has to deal with being tipsy, but it is certainly better than the gag reflex. However, she seems to be unaware that her gut is lurching, it is merely dulled out.

She lets out a sigh as she takes turns standing and then sitting. Several mugs down over the course of thirty minutes. In the meantime she does get to enjoy lunch with the Captain and a few other sailors. They have some fanciful stories for the girl, mostly about sea monsters such as squid and serpents. She doesn’t give the ‘crazy’ stories any attention, as she feels they are just trying to amuse themselves by scaring her. The sea monstesr are one thing, but pays more attention when they speak about events from Muspell. The girl learns about the government and the merchant trade. When she asks about dragons and the war, one of the sailors informs her that “Dragon do not normally venture towards Midgard. They stay far away from it and are further inland of Muspell.” She further learns they normally avoid the coast. She attempts to ask about the dragon at Mount Surt, but none of them know of what she speaks.

Stories are swapped between them as the hour goes on. Sweiza’s face flushes red as she is easy to amuse at this point. She stands up, almost trips on herself and lets out a bow. Her laughter joins the others in the galley. She sits down and more stories are swapped as merriment and laughter fills the galley. She finally bids farewell and heads for the bow of the ship to report to Verdandi.

A little tipsy, Sweiza staggers on the deck. Her face is flushed pink as she looks up at Sprite and lets out several giggles. She finally sputters and lets out a laugh as his normal flight suddenly swoops too and fro. His form earlier in a drink glass was enough to get the laughter started. She normally doesn’t like him drinking alcohol with her, as other members of her village also felt the same. However, this is a special occasion - or so it felt.

The girl staggers up to Verdandi and lets out more laughter. Laughter from the galley can also be heard, if however faint. Verdandi takes one look at Sweiza’s flushed cheeks and is not amused. She also interrupts the girl’s annoying chatter.

“I see you have been enjoying yourself.” Verdandi says it tapping the spyglass to her free hand.

“Yes!” Sweiza lets out more sputtered laughter, not sure why she is laughing, but she knows she feels good. Verdandi’s impatient foot tapping only makes the girl laugh more. Verdandi eyes Sprite as he swirls his flight path slowly to the ground. He finally hunches on all fours makes cough and then repeated gagging noise.

“I see Sir Herschel can’t hold his alcohol.” Verdandi looks down at him with some amusement. The Sprite looks up and shudders.

“This is why he isn’t normally allowed to drink with me.” Sweiza looks down at him and stamps her foot on the ground. The Sprite jumps but hobbles back down on all fours. Sweiza reachs down and picks him up and holds him with her left hand to her left shoulder. Sweiza tsks at him once, “And it serves you right you weak pig.”

Sprite lets out a quick and weak grin. He gives up his body strength and resigns to the girl cupping her hand around him.

“Miss Serif, I see you have been helping the crew. Very good. Your consideration and friendship with your farmiliar…”

“Friend!” Sweiza’s mood quickly changes as she barks at Verdandi.

“Whichever you refer to him as is your business Miss Serif. However, I would like you to perform one thousand cuts. I will be watching you to check your form. Understood?” Verdandi again taps her foot patiently.

Sweiza looks up at the woman, thinks back to before and thinks better of opening her mouth. “I don’t have a sword.”

Maybe it will be enough to get out of it. She thinks wrong as Verdandi reaches down and to her side and her lance appears.

“Like this Miss Serif. Valkyrie weapons and armor are enchanted. You can summon them or rescind them at will.” Verdandi’s lance disappears. Sweiza nods.

The girl reaches her hand out and a shield appears in it. Verdandi raises her eyebrows at the girl as the shield disappears. Sweiza’s armor appears as she holds her hand outstretched. Her sword appears soon after. Verdandi’s eyebrows raise again as she nods her head slowly in approval. She mock claps slowly with the spyglass still in her hand. “Very good Miss Serif. Begin.”

“What?”

“Left cut. However, do it with the scabbard sheathed.”

Sweiza looks up at her. Verdandi points to the spyglass and makes a very faint motion with it. Sweiza understands what will happen to her and immediately performs a cut to the left.

“Use your other hand Miss Serif…”

Sweiza lets out a groan of dismay.

Sweiza’s form is repeatedly questioned. The awkwardness of having too much to drink makes it worse. Sweiza’s armor works as a double measure, but the sheathed sword serves as protection enough from her awkward movements. Verdandi repeatedly stops the girl to correct her form. She shows the girl how to move her arms and legs in the proper position; when the girl gets adamant Verdandi forcefully grabs the girl and moves her into position. As time is lost to the girl, Verdandi suddenly lets out a single mock clap.

“Very good Miss Serif. Consider your duties for the day done. I suggest you retreat back to our room. You are going to want to be ready for tomorrow on a day schedule. You will probably have a nasty hangover from all of your merriment.”

Sweiza lets out a contorted expression at the Valkyrie. Verdandi gives one nod of approval and then clicks her heels together. Sweiza lets out an awkward bow and turns around. Before continuing on she looks for Sprite and sees him about ten feet away, again on all fours. She cups her left hand around him and attempts to walk off.

Verdandi clears her throat. Sweiza does not turn around.

“Miss Serif, do rescind your sword and armor.”

Sweiza looks down at her attire, as well as the sword in her off hand. She gives a slight bow of her head after turning part of her body towards the Valkyrie. Verdandi looks at her with contempt. Sweiza’s armor disappears and she staggers off. Her body feels tipsy, but she cannot feel much for pain. She knows she will most certainly feel it tomorrow. Verdandi turns around to hear a yelp and a thud. The girl has toppled over and half of her armor is on, half of it missing. Verdandi shakes her head at her before returning to lookout on the bow.

—

“What is it that you…”

It follows her into the dream world and she wastes no time in throwing up on him.

“You insolent…”

What she desires is for it to end just as quickly and sleep again takes her. This round, she wins. And that is what she truly desires against her dream foe.

—

Sweiza wakes up with a smile on her face and a content feeling. However, it doesn’t take long for the sun’s rays to hit her. Then it really hits her. A headache, her gut feels nasty, her body aches, but especially her arms and legs hurt. She lets out a grown as she attempts to lift her body. She hears noise next to her, but it takes her a few moments to realize it is Verdandi clicking her heels.

“I see someone is awake. You were due to hours ago.”

“Wha?” Sweiza shields her sun from the eyes and tries to focus on the imposing woman. Instead to her surprise, Verdandi thrusts a tray next to her.

“Breakfast in bed Miss Serif. Nice work yesterday.”

Sweiza makes a face as she looks down at the plate of bacon and eggs. She sees a glass of an odd color with liquid floating around. “Is that what I think it is?”

“Old Valkyrie remedy. Guaranteed to deal with nasty hangovers.”

“And you stand by this?”

“I’m standing next to you aren’t I?”

Sweiza looks up at her suspiciously and eyes the glass once. She closes one eye and keeps the other on the Valkyrie as she grabs it and thrusts it to her mouth. She gags on it as she attempts to force it down.

“I see you have some experience in these matters Miss Serif. Now if only you were this well mannered for tea time.”

Sweiza looks up at her and just shrugs. She pushes the tray away. “Thanks anyway. I don’t feel so hot. I’ll eat it later.”

“As you wish Miss Serif.” Verdandi sets the tray down on the table next to the bed. She turns around with her hands held together in front of her and bows.

“You did well for your first time on a ship. Spend the rest of the day recuperating. I will be at my post above deck if you need me.” Verdandi clicks her heels together and turns towards the door. It clicks behind her as she closes it.

Sweiza looks at the door once, glad the Valkyrie is on her side after all. She looks over to the meal next to her as a familiar colored sprite divebombs her breakfast. Sweiza’s hand is too slow to shoo him away. He snatches up a bit of bacon and flies off with it towards window. He flies outside for good measure. Sweiza shakes her head.

“SPRITE!”

—

Dear Diary,

Sprite are known for how poorly they handle alcohol, but they recover just as easily. This is a curse for certain pests that lurk nearby for food. He took my bacon, the pig. This isn’t the first time he’s done it… and always my bacon! If he continues to make a pest of himself, next time I’ll lace his sugar cubes with something extremely bitter.

—Sweiza

—

As the morning sun rises, the water is very calm and the Sterling Blue skims the water surface briskly. Sweiza on the other hand, is still feeling tipsy. Thankfully the ship is not rocking like it was yesterday. Her normal routine activities in the morning prove to be a bit of a challenge due to the hangover. Eating (what is left) of her breakfast, bathing, brushing her teeth and applying a gel in her hair to keep it out of the way somewhat. Her hairband helps with such matters. She has one recollection about how much mead she drank the night before. It didn’t taste super alcoholic, but she was keeping up with the other sailors. “I wonder…” is all she says to herself in front of the mirror. She dons her normal outfit of Maria Village and quickly makes her way to the deck of the ship. She has one thing in mind, “ocean fishing”, something she has wanted to do the better part of her life. Her rucksack is quick in tow as she hits the last light of stairs. She is on the back deck and ready to drop her fishing line when one of the deckhands informs her to cast it out enough so as not to get caught in the rudder. She gives an “Oh.” And does so. It goes out and she looks around the back deck. She sees what she needs, an unused wooded bucket. She flips it upside down and sits her her legs spread open. Her sole concentration is on the rod and her left finger under the line.

About a half hour later she gets a bite. She is quick to reel it in. She takes one look at it, a variant of a small tuna. She looks around and does not see what she is looking for. She reaches into her rucksack and pulls out a rope. Unfortunately there is not a second bucket in sight. She jumps from her sitting position and ties the rope to the handle of the bucket and chucks it into the ocean below, before pulling it back up. Saltwater would do. The fish goes into it and she sets it back down. She throws her rucksack on top and makes due with it as a makeshift seat. Comfortable, somewhat. About an hour later she has caught four more. A half hour later she has six and calls it good. She starts skinning them nearby where she sat. She hurls the skin and guts over the side of the ship. The precious meat is again stored inside a pouch she has hidden away in her rucksack.

She looks up waiting for it. Sprite should be nearby. He has not shown himself since he divebombed her bacon. She lets out a shrill whistle. Nothing. She pulls a small rod-shaped whistle out of one of the sidepockets in her rucksack. Looks up towards the crow’s nest and blows into the whistle hard; she barely hears it. However, it is enough. She sees a brief stream of blue light one mast over near the second sail from the topmost. It is what she is waiting for - the blue figure gets slightly larger as it makes a beeline towards her position. He flies up and crosses his arms. A big smile crosses his face as he thrusts his head and feet forward, but his arms behind him. He lets out an enthusiastic chirp. She holds out one finger. He lets out an annoyed squawk. She holds up three fingers. He quickly nods. She holds open the thing he likes to see the most - her meat pouch. She holds out a scrap of meet for him. He flies towards it and darts off. She shakes her head. Several clicks of metal on wood approach her and a voice interrupts her.

“My, my. That was rather entertaining. Is he always that boisterous?”

Sweiza’s head bolts up to see Verdandi. She knows why Sprite flew off.

“He especially likes fish…” She thinks about whether she should say it or not, but she doesn’t see any harm, “…he especially likes honey.” Sweiza says it as a matter of factually.

“Oh really? Has he ever tried Valhallan Honey?” Verdandi cradles her arms as she does so and holds her right finger up to her cheek as she tilts her head in mock thought. “I’ll bet he hasn’t?”

“He’s only tried the stuff from Maria. I imported some Muspell Honey once. He said it was too spicey. It was a waste of a jar. He refused to eat it. But that was after he stuck his whole face in it.” Sweiza laughs and slaps her leg. “I don’t know why he is such a pig.”

“There is a reason sprite were expelled from the realm.” Verdandi says it as she cradles her arms again and then crosses them. “They are pests.”

Sweiza makes a face at Verdandi, Verdandi raises her right eyebrow slightly. She continues, “However, as long as you keep this one under control I see no problem with bringing him into Valhalla. Especially if it is known that he is the familiar of a Valkyrie.”

“He’ll follow me anywhere.”

“Even through the Gates of Valhalla and into Odin’s castle itself? That will be most amusing indeed.” Verdandi cradles her arms again as she looks up. Sweiza smirks.

“And what is that supposed to mean?”

“Odin hates sprites.”

The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

“So?” Sweiza contorts her face and wrinkles her nose at Verdandi.

“He wouldn’t hesitate to have him executed.”

Sweiza’s face becomes pale and almost disappears.

“However…” Verdandi continues nodding her headd and flicking a few strands of her hair, “…as it just so happens Valkyrie are expected and encouraged to have a familiar of sorts.”

“What good does that do Sprite if Odin will have him killed?” Her mouth twists as she says it. Sweiza waves both her hands in frustration and stamps her left foot to the ground.

A smile appears on Verdandi’s face, “Valkyrie are allowed to choose any particular mystical beast - regardless of whether it is allowed in Valhalla or not.” She takes her right hand and rolls another lock of hair with her finger, “This includes sprites and anything deemed illegal under Valhalla law.”

Sweiza grits her mouth. Verdandi lets out a barely audible laugh. She slaps her left fist into her right hand and nods at the girl. “Your sprite friend is considered an essential part of your duties and is therefor under the protection of not just yourself, but ‘all’ Valkyrie. This has been a decree since the time of the first Valkyrie.” Verdandi gets more serious, “Odin will not transgress that which is binding and considered sacred to us… lest he stir the wrath of the Valkyrie and there is another rebellion.”

“What?” Sweiza twists her head once at ‘rebellion’.

“You’ll learn about it soon enough Miss Serif. However, if you perchance should find a library on this ship, there may be something to do with the rebellion. However, you are on your own in that regard.” Verdandi lets out a laugh. Her own genius is enticing the girl, she is sure of it.

Sweiza hears a chirp behind her. She looks to her left and sees Sprite. “I seem to remember something about a rebellion some odd century ago. Say, more fish?”

Sweiza shakes her head and points down to the pouch laying on her rucksack. He targets it and attempts to fly off with the whole thing. Sweiza grabs it just as his hands touch it. “Two more scraps and that is all you get.”

He makes a face at her. However, he relents and reaches into the bag and pulls out two meat scraps and lands on the ground. He makes no attempts to fly of this time.

“He is correct. However, part of your training involves learning things on your own without me having to spoon feed you everything.” Verdandi clicks her heels together and turns around. Her head turns back towards Sweiza. “Good luck Miss Serif, and have fun!” She walks off.

For once, Sweiza’s eyebrows raise. She looks down at Sprite. “Satisfied?”

He nods.

“No more taking my food?”

He tilts his head and uses one eye to look up deep in thought, Sweiza knows he it is a mock gesture. He looks up at her, “I want honey.”

“I’ll see what I can do friend. HOWEVER…” She stamps her foot to the ground and bends to loom over him while she points her finger at him; her form blocks out the sun. “…regardless of what happens, do not take my food anymore without my permission. Is that clear Sir Herschel?!”

He nods. However, unlike as she would normally expect, he does not fly off. He flies up to her face. “Actually, I was wondering…”

Sweiza’s face perks. “Hmm?”

“Since we’ll be working together, that will make us partners. I’d like you to refer to treat me with more dignity, such as calling me by my name.” He swings his left foot slowly back and foth. Sweiza’s eyes narrow but she quickly shakes it.

“I made that name up because you wanted one. Sprite don’t have names…” Sweiza stops herself, “…that humans can pronounce.”

“Right. Which is why I would like to be called by my name, ‘Dewey’.” He crosses his arms and shows her his pride.

“I’ll think about it.” Sweiza says it with some contempt. “But you are becoming unusually brave and bossy lately.”

“We are out on our own for an adventure. You and me Sera. I don’t want to be known as ‘the Sprite’ if we become famous. I want a name, and I want it to be served with honey.”

Sweiza’s hands go down to her hips, she stands up straight and stamps her foot. “Don’t push it mister. I have no desire to be famous.”

“I do.”

Sweiza stamps her foot again and then claps her hands in front of him, she does it hard and loud to show her annoyance.

“You know I hate that.”

Sweiza wrinkles her face and sticks her tongue out at him.

“Fine. Stay bored without me.” He picks himself up in the air and flies off towards the sky.

Sweiza looks up knowing she has made a mistake.

“Sprite! Sprite!” Her attempts to call him come to no avail. She lets out a whistle to summon him. This is their hunting call or when she needs him at her side. He stops and turns back to her. She can barely see his wide eyes. A thin stream of blue smoke bursts from him towards her. It hits her in the face and she coughs before the smell gets to her, rotten eggs. She gags. This is not the first time he has pulled this with her. However, it has always been simple, superficial stuff that was a want of his; most of it she has refused. However, his little stunt is his way of showing he is serious. He won’t be speaking to her for awhile, and she knows it. He might come up to her to sleep or snatch food, but that will be it. He will ignore her and she knows it. This will complicate her trip, as the two of them normally entertain each other on trips like this.

She looks up towards the sails, crow’s nest and then the sky. She lets out a sigh. She can fix this, but she doesn’t know how long it will take. She thankfully has eight days.

—

Verdandi hears a set of heels click. This catches her by surprise. She turns around and lowers her spyglass. Sweiza stands there with her hands held together below her waist. She places her hands on her thighs and bows.

“Very good Miss Serif.” Verdandi holds her spyglass in her arm while she claps lightly and briefly, before she folds her hands below her belt, “But that is an old tradition that was rescinded over a century ago. I am one of the few who practice it. It isn’t necessary of you.”

“Okay.” Is all Sweiza says. The girl nervously wiggles her fingers with her hands held together.

“Is something wrong Miss Serif?”

“How do you stay so focused without being distracted by others?” Sweiza does not let on her concern for Little Sprite, but it is directly related to her question.

“As a matter of fact Miss Serif, to be good at anything Miss Serif, it takes trial and error, practice, but more importantly, patience.” Verdandi says it without moving. In fact, she holds perfectly still. She doesn’t show it, but she is very happy she can finally act as mentor.

“So if I have something bothering me, then what?” Sweiza says it sheepishly, trying not to look at the ground.

“I saw something blue let out smoke towards you. I assume that is a Sprite defense technique. Perhaps you said something you shouldn’t have?” Verdandi says it on point and Sweiza flinches. Verdandi’s suspicion is concerned, but she doesn’t provoke it out of the girl.

“How did…” Sweiza’s head leans forward as she considers what Verdandi says. Verdandi says nothing as she uses her toes to lift her heels off the ground momentarily and then she drops them. A smile crosses her face before she pulls the spyglass from her arm.

“That…” Sweiza looks from the spyglass up to Verdandi, “You’ve been spying on me?”

“I’m your mentor Miss Serif. I have to keep an eye on you occasionally.” Verdandi takes the spyglass with her right hand and pats it in her right hand, “As for your friend, give him time. Whatever it is, I’m sure he’ll come around. They always do. I’ve had issues with my own familiar on occasion.”

“You had a familiar?” Sweiza looks away in thought and then to Verdandi.

“I still do Miss Serif.” Verdandi says it proudly.

“Why isn’t he with us?” Sweiza asks sheepishly, wondering if this is any of her business, as what goes on between Sprite and herself always felt ‘personal’, if not more.

“He wouldn’t fit on the boat dear.” Verdandi makes footsteps and slowly approaches the girl.

Sweiza says nothing and she feels her shoulders and head droop as Verdandi stands a few feet from her face.

“I don’t think Odin would approve of him at the Gates of Valhalla either. Odin is afraid of dragons you know.”

“Who…” Sweiza says it afraid and confused.

“You are also afraid of dragons it would seem.”

Sweiza’s head shakes a few times. It clicks. She closes her eyes and gives a deliberate mock shudder.

“Very good Miss Serif. Now if you’ll excuse me, I must return to lookout. Also, the library is at the front of the ship on the same level as the cargo hold. I’m sure one of the sailors can show you.” Verdandi bows and then turns around to resume her duty.

Sweiza however, has other ideas. “How do you know where it is on this ship?”

Verdandi doesn’t miss a beat, “It’s not my first time sailing between Muspell and Valhalla. Now go, have some fun reading.” Verdandi uses her hands and pushes the girl towards the back deck. When Sweiza stammers Verdandi waves both her hands and shoos the girl away. Verdandi clicks her heels together, gives a bow and then turns around to resume her duties.

Verdandi doesn’t see it, but Sweiza lets out a bow to her mentor.

Sweiza doesn’t see it, but her Sprite friend has been watching her the whole time. He heard it all.

—

Sweiza makes her way down to the front of the ship on her own and finds the door marked as simple as ‘Ship Library’. When she enters, she lets out a gasp at how elegant it looks. Far better than any library in Maria Village or any of the surrounding villages. Her eyes dart from one book to the next. Volumes everywhere, many of them in sequence, encyclopedias, dictionaries, maps, the list goes on. She walks up to the first shelf she sees and moves her hand at a shelf that is eye level. She hears a noise behind her that sounds like a chirp. Her hand stops and she hears a noise before she turns around. She sees a blue figure flying off in the distance. She lets out a snicker before turning back to the shelf. She passes her hand over them to hold her concentration. Books about sailing. Three rows up all about maps. Two rows down, cooking. On the bottom are what appear to her to be a catalog of what is in the library. This is what she needs. Alphabetical order. She the one labeled ‘V’. She finds what she is looking for in it. Several shelves back. Midgard History. The Valhallan War, followed some years later by the Valhallan Rebellion.

She peruses the text on the matter. It is a short but brief entry. Unrest between the military and government of Midgard. Strictly speaking, a number of Valkyrie staged a rebellion against Odin due to unethical treatment and decisions. Several Valkan…

“What is a Valkan?” Sweiza muses to herself quietly, “Is it some kind of ‘familiar’?”

…also joined the Valkyrie in the rebellion. A dragon joined them in the rebellion. They made it as far as Odin’s Castle and there was a white light that enveloped everyone. It is said the dragon fled and many of the rebellion simply vanished. Those that were left behind were too disoriented and overwhelmed by Odin’s forces to continue. Any remaining Valkyrie and Valkan in the rebellion were set as an example. Several were executed, others punished to serve as an example if it happened again. Several members of the rebellion were granted amnesty and allowed to continue within the ranks of Valkyrie and Valkan with restrictions.

Sweiza continues reading through it. It speaks of one Valkyrie, very powerful in sorcery that had the power to kill Odin. It is thought that before she could strike the blow, Odin himself used a powerful spell to whisk her and her entourage away. As for the dragon, its whereabouts are unknown.

“Major bummer!” Sweiza looks at it wanting to know more. She will have to find a way to entice the information out of her mentor. She turns around towards the door. She looks her eyes back behind her once and makes a note that this library will be where she spends some of her free time. As she turns around from closing the door, she hears a thud against the ceiling. She looks up.

“Sprite!”

His eyes widen in surprise. He darts up towards the sky and thuds against the ceiling again. He darts off in the direction of the stairs. Sweiza shakes her head. “Oh you!”.

—

Verdandi is less than receptive towards Sweiza’s questions on the rebellion. In fact, she gets a sharp smack on the thigh with the spyglass. Verdandi is also not amused by Sweiza inviting her to discuss it over tea time. “As a matter of fact, you should be willing to discuss a great many things over tea time Miss Serif; and as you don’t like tea and as you do not wish to discuss your personal life with me, it will be some time before I divulge such details. As it is, I fear that may never happen.”

Sweiza simply sticks her tongue out at Verdandi. Verdandi gives it no attention and resumes her duty towards the horizon. When Sweiza turns around, she looks up towards the first mast and sees a blue figure looking down at her. He has seen the whole thing. She calls up to him and he flies away… again.

—-

She has the day off, yet she can’t wait to alleviate the boredom. She doesn’t feel like fishing. Bow hunting birds is a waste of arrows when they can’t be retrieved. She gets an idea. She walks back up to Verdandi. Verdandi turns around at the footsteps, but turns back to her post when she sees it is Sweiza. Sweiza clears her throat.

“Can I assist you Miss Serif?”

“Actually, you can.” Sweiza says it real sheepishly. Verdandi turns around with her eyebrows raised. Her body posture relaxes when she sees Sweiza is holding right hand and finger up with her left hand behind her back. There is a sheepish smile on the girls face.

“Angst, if this is some kind of joke…”

“You’ve been at that for some time, haven’t you?” Sweiza says it again, putting her hands behind her back, clasping them together and swaying her upper body left and right a few times. She stops and wears a big grin on her face.

“If you are referring to doubting your pomposity, that is a given.” Verdandi holds the spyglass in her right hand and whips it to her left. She quickly moves it to her arm and resumes being relaxed. “However, I assume you have some other errand.” She taps her foot slowly.

“I’d like to take over your post for a time. You deserve a break!” Sweiza puts emphasis on the last part. A big smile crosses her faces as she says it.

Verdandi looks up and to her left as if in thought. “You are a very clever, but droll one. I accept.”

Sweiza smirks. “Good! As for that assistance I need…”

“Hmm! I’ll think about it!” Verdandi walks off the bow, smacks the spyglass up against Sweiza’s arms. The girl lets out a weak and muffled yelp, but quickly regains her composure and willingly grabs the spyglass.

“You are looking for any ships. Talk in to that tube…” Verdandi points to the one to the right of the bow, “…if you see any ships and report it to the helmsman. Is that clear?” Verdandi stamps her foot to the ground.

Sweiza looks down at it and then back up to Verdandi. Verdandi does not look very patient with the request, but rather serious. “I’d like to discuss a few things with you over tea…”

“Miss Serif…” Verdandi’s tone changes in warning.

Sweiza quickly changes her tone and gets nervous, “…to better understand each other and avoid conflict in the future.” Sweiza quickly bows before Verdandi reacts.

Verdandi’s hands go to her hips and her foot starts tapping as she leans to her right side. The sun hangs over her partially indicating it is near noon. Verdandi stands straight up again and her arms cross as her right hand and then finger goes up to her chin. “Is that all Miss Serif?”

Sweiza grins again she closes her eyes in a squint, “You don’t know if this ship has any ‘Valhallan Honey’, do you?” She feels her request is a cringey one.

Verdandi flinches in surprise and stammers for a split second before regaining her composure. “Whatever for dear?”

“It’s a personal request.”

Verdandi tilts her head in curiosity at the girl.

—-

Sweiza finds the spyglass to be an odd sight, and even stranger to use. She finds her vision is greatly amplified and she can see some ten to fiteen miles out. However, what she sees is rather boring. To the left of the bow she sees nothing but open sea. To the right she sees inland, however, it is almost entirely rock cropping, beach or trees. She makes a face to herself as she reminds herself why she is doing this. It, however, shouldn't take long she concludes; and she is right, Strife is back after about thirty minutes. One of the crewman is with her.

"Miss Serif," She remarks, "This deckhand is here to relieve you, however, this is only for brunch. After that it will be right back to scanning the horizon. You agreed to this, is that understood?" Verdandi points her right finger at Sweiza's face, specifically her nose.

"Yes ma'am." Sweiza says it with a sigh as she hops down from the bow deck and hands the spyglass to the crewman. He takes her spot and holds the spyglass up to eye level. Sweiza is thankful that she gotten herself out of the boring task, at least for the time being.

Verdandi briskly wlks towards the back of the ship. However, rather than enter the Captain's quarters as before, she chooses the lower deck where the mess hall is. She turns behind her and motions for Sweiza to follow. Sweiza does so, if not with some trepidition.

Once inside, Verdandi picks the table furthest from anyone else in the room. Sweiza wonders why, but Verdandi seems to have read her mind, "Even if it is in front of others, I prefer some degree of privacy during tea time."

Sweiza simply nods at the woman. Once seated, a waitress walks up to them. She bows. Sweiza looks from the waitress to Verdandi. Verdandi's eyes gleam. Verdandi turns to the waitress, "Valhallan style tea with biscuits and rolls. That will be all."

The waitress bows again before heading towards the kitchen. Sweiza's eyes follow her as she moves behind a counter and is hidden. However, in an open area that shows the ship's cook, she sees the waitress walk behind him and grab something. Her back turns to the girl as her arms make several movements. She turns around and lifts up a tray. It has what Sweiza is expecting, rols, biscuits, a teapot and ttwo teacups. Here she is hoping it would be more interesting. The waitress brings it over; as she slowly comes into view, Sweiza notes that there is a set of sugar tongs inside of a sugar bowl with sugar cubes. The waitress setss it down on the table. She makes a brief smile at Verdandi. Verdandi ushers her over and covers her mouth as she whispers something into the woman's ear. Sweiza's interest perks. However, Verdandi keeps it low enough that the girl can't hear her. The waitress stops bending over and puts her hands in front of her and clasps them together. She shakes her head at Verdandi. "That's too bad." The waitress bows and walks off.

"So anyway, Miss Serif, you had some things you wished to discuss?" Verdandi's elbows are soon on the table and her hands clasp together as they support her head. There is grin and odd giddiness about her, "Do pass the rolls, butter included please."

Sweiza eyes wide frowns at the woman in front of her and grabs the roll bowl and pushes it towards her, butter soon to follow. Verdandi is quick to butter up the roll, not paying much attention to the silent girl. Some minutes pass by as Verdandi busies herself preping the tea. Sweiza assumes the woman merely prepares things for her, tea, rolls and biscuits included, simple because there is more than enough for one person. Verdandi looks up at Sweiza, "Well don't just sit there girl, help yourself!"

Verdandi quickly grabs a saucer and pulls up the tea to her lips. "It really could use a bit more sugar."

Her hands reach for the sugar tongs and a few cubes drop in. For good measure the woman stirs it. Back up to her lips and the woman's pacing slows, much slower than Sweiza is anticipating. Verdandi tilts her head back as she finally sets the teacup back down to the saucer on the table. Verdandi's elbows come back up to the table as both of her hands rest on top of each other. If stars and happiness were ever a thing, Sweiza now sees it in Verdandi's eyes. Verdandi says nothing, waiting for the girl to say something.

"The...uh, honey, that I, uh... mentioned from before. Is there any on the ship?" Sweiza says it hesitantly and nervously. She feels her body cringing and shaking as she asks it. She thinks to herself, "I swear I will leave something bitter for him. Putting me up to this."

Verdandi's right hand comes up to a fist to cover her mouth as she closes her eyes and gives a light cough, clearing her throat. Sweiza stares at her wild eyed. "I'm sorry dear, the waitress said they do not carry any in the kitchen. The Captain and several of the crew do have some though. No doubt Sir Herschel has been snooping and spying on the crew."

Verdandi looks up above Sweiza. It takes Sweiza a minute to realize what she is looking at. She looks up to see Sprite hovering above her. He takes one look down at Sweiza and flies out above them in an open window in the wall.

"How long was he..." Sweiza turns back to Verdandi, a little less bewildered due to the distraction.

"Long enough to know he is going to get some sweets. Just be a dear and not let him eat too much at once. I remember sprites back in the day loved Valhallan Honey and got sick off of it. We used it for what you already know." Verdandi tries to say the last part without coming off as rude. Sweiza's eyebrows jump and her eyes widen again. She refrains from yelling at Verdandi for the extermination of something she holds near and dear to her; at least because of Sprite. Sweiza looks back up towards the window and then to Verdandi.

"I'll see what I can do about the honey and getting that pest under control." Sweiza shakes her head at the thought of Dewey getting hyper off of honey and his antics that will follow. "Verdandi lets out a cross between a giggle and a laugh; the cheerfulness causing discomfort in Sweiza and making an awkward encounter even more awkward (at least in her mind).

"So about that other stuff you wanted to discuss... Sweiza." Verdandi says some emphasis on the last part and more serious. Again Sweiza is hit with bewildered.

"So during tea time, I can call you Alice?" Sweiza blurts it out, assuming that is what the last part meant. Her guess is right.

"Yes dear. But only during tea time. I'm a bit older fashion observing tea, but I feel we shed aside our identities for closer belonging during tea. It helps relieve stress and builds camaraderie you know." Verdandi says it with a weak smile on her face.

Sweiza will have none of this. She stiffens up, while leaning forward and she slams both of her hands on the table. Verdandi jolts as several of the teacups on the platter rattle; several of the rolls and biscuits also roll. What they really hear is the silverware jumping. Sweiza blurts out, "You can't be serious!"

The kitchen falls silent of anyone speaking. Sweiza looks up to the waitress and several other patrons observing them. Sweiza's form shrinks as her head shrinks into her body and her elbows pull close to her seeking protection from the embarrassment. Sweiza tries not to let her face turn red at the silliness of her outburst. Her hands reach under her chair and she pulls herself closer to the table. Her head leans down and forward, closer to Verdandi. "You can't be serious!" Sweiza says it as best as she can under a whisper while still speaking in disbelief.

"Except for outbursts like that Miss Serif. That will get people observing and saying things about you that you'd rather not here. I suggest you avoid it in the future." Verdandi's hands come up and she shrugs and shakes her head slowly. "It really is your choice... Sweiza."

"Verdandi, you can't..." Sweiza is interrupted by Verdandi.

"Please call me Alice during tea."

"Whatever!" Sweiza blurts it out and sticks her tonuge at the woman.

"Miss Serif, you are quite the rude girl." Verdandi rests both of her hands on her lap and then seeing there is no response from the girl, she pours herself some more tea. "You really should try it Sweiza."

Verdandi offers the spout of the teapot towards the empty tea cup facing Sweiza on the platter. Sweiza makes a motion with a shakey hand for Verdandi to pour her some. Sweiza knows what comes next. Verdandi sets the pot down and Sweiza reaches for the cup. She makes no point to grab the saucer. Verdandi's face contorts into annoyance, a smile and a frown rolled into one. She lets out a tsk as Sweiza quickly reaches the cup to her mouth. She flinches when it hits her tastebuds. She downs the tea as fast as possible and feels her gag reflex kick in.

"It goes better with sugar dear." Verdandi says it pleasant. Sweiza simply nods quickly and sets the teacup down and motions with a shakey hand again for the woman to poor her some more. This time Sweiza reaches for the sugar tongs and grabs a sugar cube. Just as she is about to put it in her cup, she sees Verdandi suddenly looking up and above her. Sweiza lets out a sigh and holds the tongs with the sugar cube up at arms length. The next thing she knows, it goes as expected as a certain blue sprite dive bombs the tongs, grabs the sugar cube and then stops midair and darts right back through the open window.

"You two are well aquainted?" Verdandi says it with some amusement.

"He's so predictable. It's not the first time he's done this." Sweiza looks up at the window and sticks her tongue out at it. Verdandi just laughs.

"You don't normally show this side of yourself Verdandi." Sweiza says it while grabbing a biscuit. Perhaps the taste will wash the nasty drink down, or so she thinks. It is rather dry for her liking. She quickly grabs a knife and butters it up. It goes down much better.

"Well dear, as I mentioned, tea time is a great way to shed aside our masks and identities and get to one another. I feel this very much. It is the one time I can be without duty, even when on duty so to speak." Verdandi reaches for another biscuit. Sweiza assumes she hasn't eaten breakfast yet.

"Sure... Uh, I was wondering. Am I the first person you've trained as a Valkyrie?" Sweiza says it prefering the biscuit to the tea. She hopes she doesn't have to drink it any time soon.

"Part of my punishment as per Odin's decree was to train seventeen Valkyrie. As it so happens, you are the seventeenth and last apprentice I will be training." Verdandi says it while cutting the biscuit open; she butters it and adds jelly. A little honey goes with it. All she says is, "Mmm, better." Not necessarily to Sweiza, but more to herself.

"Punishment?" Sweiza says it wide eyed again. Now her hands are in her lap and she stares down at the tea.

"Go ahead and drink it dear. Think of it as a training exercise to discipline yourself. It helps build character."

"The same way it built your character?" Sweiza says it in a dirty and hushed tone, much lower than she normally would and still full of disdain for the woman.

"Yes Sweiza, the same way I've built my character. Tea time is amazing and a special moment to exchange pleasantries. A reminder that there are things far bitter than ourselves." She says it eying Sweiza's cup, "Perhaps you'd like cream and honey to go with it?"

Sweiza pulls the left side of her mouth down. She points up.

"Sprite, you can come out. I know you are eavesdropping." She says it with a higher pitched, but piercing warning.

"Dewey! Call me Dewey!" He says it flying down just in front of Sweiza. "I'd like some honey... please."

"It's not Valhallan Honey." She says it again in a lower tone.

"It doesn't matter, honey is honey." He says it as he lands on the table.

"Sir Herschel, then perhaps you would appreciate some of Sweiza's tea that she has just overly sweetened?" Verdandi says it with a smirk on her face. The sprite looks up at her suspiciously and then to Sweiza. Sweiza shakes her head, "Get your own."

"Hmph!" He jumps once and then lands to the edge of the teacup. Sweiza's attempts to swat him away are met with failure. He quickly bends over and props his mouth to the liquid. Verdandi leans forward. Sprite drinks as much as he can. Sweiza's eyes widen. The sprite suddenly bolts straight up and starts coughing.

"You tricked me, that's nasty!" He spits the tea out at Sweiza. She points over at Verdandi. The sprite sticks his tongue out at her.

"I'm beginning to think I know where you got your bad manners from Sweiza. We'll have to work on that." Verdandi says it pouring herself more tea.

"Anyway, you mentioned a punishment..." Sweiza looks down at the sprite and shoos him away. He sticks his tongue out at her again.

"I mentioned a rebellion. I trust you read about it in the library?" Verdandi's tone changes to something more serious as she sets down her half eaten biscuit and looks Sweiza dead in the eye. "I was one of those Valkyrie that lead the rebellion."

"WHAT?!" Sweiza half stands up in her chair as her legs hit the table. She gives an 'ow' and drops back to her seat. The commotion does not go unnoticed by patrons and the wait staff. This time the trio gets stares.

"You are not the only one unhappy with Odin's decisions. However, I do believe that is enough revelation for one day. Now I have a question for you." Verdandi says it adding honey to her tea this time. She takes a bite of her biscuit while she waits for Sweiza to process the request.

"Hmm?" She looks down at the tea cup again. She reaches over and grabs the small jar of honey and pours it into the cup. Verdandi pauses to watch the display. Sweiza pushes the cup over in Sprite's direction and motions for him to take the offering. He flies down at it and looks up at Sweiza, then to the cup suspiciously. He points to a spoon.

"Oh, right." She takes the spoon and stirs it up. The sprite completes his same motion as before, taking quite a generous amount this time. He coughs and then wipes his mouth. He nods in approval at Sweiza and then plants himself in a sitting position on the table. He turns to face Verdandi while sitting crosslegged. He crosses his arms for good measure and eyes her as serious as he can muster. The Valkyrie pays no attention to him.

"What kind of question?" Sweiza says it dismissing it as harmless. What could she possibly ask.

"Before you were knighted, I spoke with the Goddess of Fertility." Verdandi says it quite serious now.

Sweiza's heart sinks. "You said this wasn't about being a Valkyrie."

"I did. It's not that kind of question. You separated yourself from your friends and chose not to meet with the Goddess. I want to know why." Verdandi says it, not giving her tea and biscuit any attention.

"That's none of your business." Sweiza says it in a lighter tone and her face flushes red. She turns away to try and hide her embarrassment.

Sprite looks up at Sweiza. "Sarah, just tell her."

"Are you against me too, Spr... Dewey?" She says it half weak and pleading as she looks down at him.

Sprite from Verdandi to Sweiza and gives her an evil smile. "I want Valhallan Honey."

"You wouldn't! Don't you dare!" Sweiza says it glaring down at him.

"Honey! Now!" He says it knowing he has the upper hand.

Sweiza pushes her chair back, stands up and bows to Verdandi, "Thank you for tea Alice. It was delightful. I must be going."

"You didn't answer my question Miss Serif." Verdandi says it as she grabs a bell on the platter and rings it. She stands up, turns towards the kitchen and lets out a double clap before turning back to Sweiza. Sweiza attention focuses on the kitchen as the waitress from before leaves the kitchen and heads in their direction.

"I think that will be all Verdandi... or should I say Strife?" Sweiza says it with her tone lowering on her last words.

"Whichever you prefer Miss Serif. I have my suspicions about why you separated yourself from your friends. Keep your secrets if you like, I won't indulge you further. But I would like you to be honest and forthright on this and other matters in the future." Verdandi bows to Sweiza and turns around to the waitress next to her. Sweiza sees a slip of paper passed between the two of them. The waitress gasps a bit and looks up at her. "Really?" is all she says. Verdandi nods once and the waitress bows. "Thank you so much." Verdandi waives her hand at her and the waitress tends to the dishes on the table. Verdandi gives Sweiza no more attention and approaches the door.

Sweiza scowls at the door as the Valkyrie exits. She turns to Dewey. "Well? You either smell it or you've found some. So let's go."

Dewey looks up at her approval on his face and stars in his eyes. "The Captain has some. I smelled it earlier. You may have to barter with him. Valhallan Honey is very rare in Muspell and this side of Midgard." He zooms behind her and assumes the position above her shoulder. She can hear his wings fluttering next to her left ear.

"We're not at 'this side of Midgard anymore" spr... Dewey." Her eyes dart to him and then the exit.

"Whatever, let's go. That smell...!" Dewey says it while chirping several times and clicking. This is a treat he rarely gets and one he needs right now.

"Whatever." Sweiza stops just before she exits the door. "Oh and Dewey?" Sweiza looks over at her shoulder and then her eyes down to him.

He looks up ignorant.

"Don't ever pull this stunt again. You promise me, or I may just look for a new playmate." She reaches her left hand up to him and pets him on the head. He sticks his tongue out at her. His gambit has worked and he has won, for now.

---

The Captain is sympathetic towards Sweiza's concern over her Sprite friend. However, the type of Valhallan Honey in his quarters is unsweeted and rather spicey as it is a variant his mother makes, Sprite would not like it very well, or so he gathers. However, that doesn't deter Sprite. His constant begging and clamoring about it is enough to distract Sweiza from her horizon watching.

"Why did I ever agree to this?" She mutters it to herself. Sprite tries to pipe up again, but she shoos him away with her hand. He flies up and over her head and to the other side of her head and flies up to her right ear. He whispers something into it.

Sweiza lowers the spyglass and bolts her head towards Sprite as he flies out of the way. "I highly doubt that..."

She hears footsteps. The two of them turn around to see Verdandi approaching them. She lifts her head to look at them. "I see why you two put up with each other." She lets out a laugh as she says it, trying to cover her mouth out of politeness, if not tradition.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Sweiza's hands go down to her hips. However, Sprite's eyes widen as Verdandi raises something up towards him. A jar of Valhallan Honey.

He flies from his position at Sweiza's side and flutters up to Verdandi. "How did you..."

He eyes it suspiciously and then Verdandi with skepticism. He flies back over to Sweiza and then behind her. He whispers in her ear, "She's up to something."

Sweiza looks over at him and nods.

"Verdandi, you're not this nice unless you want something." Sweiza says it shaking the spyglass at the Valkyrie.

Verdandi clicks her heels together.

"I knew it." Sweiza says it as a matter of fact.

"I spoke with the Captain. He knows about the disagreement between you two." Verdandi motions towards the duo, "He's agreed to part with a jar of the treasure you seek."

Sprite perks up at 'treasure'.

"However." Verdandi points her finger at them, "This comes with a price."

"I knew it." Sweiza says it with a lower tone and scowl.

"The both of you..." Verdandi points her finger sharply at them, "Will be working in the kitchen for the privilege of this jar. That will be all." Verdandi clicks her heels together. She walks up to the bow and outstretches her left hand at Sweiza. On instinct Sweiza hands her the spy glass. Verdandi shoves the jar of honey into the girl's hands. Sweiza knows better to object; instead, she bows at Verdandi, turns around and walks off

Some twenty feet away, Sweiza looks down at the jar. Sprite has been hovering around it, eying it the entire time. Sweiza pulls the jar away from him. She frowns at him. "We have work to do you little shit, don't even -think- of eating any of this until later."

His eyes water up, but he otherwise says nothing. Sweiza takes this as meaning his compliance. She lets out an odd whistle and he clicks in response. His comprimise is inevitable if it means a jar of the good stuff.

The two of them walk towards the cafe. What kind of work they will be performing, has yet to be seen. With any luck, it will be easy, or so Sweiza hopes.

---

It is some hours later and Sweiza slumps down in a chair. Her work consists of assisting the cook and acting as a relief waitress. In her mind, it isn't that bad. However, her body is starting to ache. She isn't used to walking around or carrying things this frequently. Sprite is not having much luck either; his small size means he is relegated to smaller tasks. However, it is a sight to see him flying small cups, cutlery and other items around the cafe. Sweiza spends a good fifteen minutes sitting in the chair. She hears a bell meaning her break is over. She lets out a small groan. Sprite flies up next to her. His eyes grow big and wide and she shakes her head. He makes a face at her and flies back towards the kitchen. She is soon to follow.

It at the end of her shift as Sweiza's body aches, she walks towards the door. Verdandi stands just offset to the inside of the door cradling her arms, "Teatime Miss Serif."

Sweiza groans inward. Sprite flies in front of Sweiza and crosses his arms. He gives her a defiant look. "Oh fine, go get it and join us. Don't be long you little shit."

He darts off.

"Sweiza, -really-, you should consider treating him with more respect."

Sweiza scoffs as she walks one table over. Verdandi joins her.

Sweiza immediately picks up a teacup and lifts it to her lips. She doesn't drink it however. She shoots one eye closed at Verdandi. This gets an eyebrow from her mentor. Sweiza says in her best mock tone, "It really could use more sugar." This gets another eyebrow from the woman.

Sprite flies back in, struggling to hold up an object. He drops it with a thud on the table and starts moving in a frenzy to get Sweiza's attention.

"Honestly Sprite..."

"Dewey!"

Sweiza scoffs again as she opens the jar of honey. It is rather tight on the lip of the jar, and she has some difficulty in getting it to open. Sprite lets out several chirps when Sweiza goes back to ignoring him to tend to her tea. She looks up again. He is standing on the table pointing to a spoon. Sweiza looks at him in disgust. Verdandi lets out a snort. Sweiza shoots her a dirty look before grabbing the spoon and dishing out a generous amount of the honey into a teacup and shoving it towards the Sprite. He wastes no time in walking over to hit and sticking his mouth up it. His body visibly shudders the moment he does it. His wings flutter sporiodically outside of his control several times before he calms them down. He looks up at Sweiza and lets out a sigh; he looks happier than he has ever been.

"Some people could only be so lucky to be spoiled so rotten you little..."

Sweiza stops speaking as she sees Verdandi holding her lips up to her teacup momentarily. "It really could use more sugar."

Sweiza rolls her eyes.

"Do you always..."

"Pass the rolls Sweiza."

Sweiza takes her left hand and shoves them briskly at the woman. Verdandi pays no attention to it as she grabs a knife and proceeds to butter one of them.

"Sweiza, I noticed you have elven ears." Verdandi says it while lightly putting honey on the inside of the roll.

Sprite lets out a giddy moan out of earshot; the two ignore him.

"If you want to call them that." Sweiza stuffs a biscuit in her mouth. She chews on it hard and swallows it soon after. Verdandi's eyes widen at the show.

"Miss Serif, you really should be less uncouthe."

"I thought we dropped the masks during this facade." Sweiza snorts.

Verdandi shakes her head and pushes her chair back and stands up. She bows her head at the girl and walks off. Sweiza watches her walk straight out the door.

"What was that about?" She asks Sprite, but he is too busy gorging himself on honey to notice.

"Sprite! SPRITE!" He continues to ignore her, his head half in the cup.

"Do you always have to be so disgusting?! You're embarassing me!"

Sprite looks back up at her and then dumps his head back into the cup. Sweiza flinches at the realization at the meaning of Verdandi's words. She closes her eyes and grimaces at her own behavior.