Once Otias was done, Ashalan admired his work. The map was beautifully illustrated along her arm, intricate detail showed pathways and borders along with the mountain ranges that criss crossed across the whole land. Her skin was tinged pink around the blue marks, but the sting had eased.

“Otias, thank you so much. It’s beautiful and it will help guide me on my way. I am so grateful to you.” Ashalan smiled.

“You’re welcome Princess.” Otias replied as he wiped away the the residue blood and ink. Ashalan could see the clear path set out before her and she felt a renewed sense of strength.

Otias then bowed and went to leave, not before stopping to give Naiahala a quick peck on the cheek as he walked past her. She blushed and touched her cheek where he'd kissed her. She held the door as she watched him walk away.

“You're fond of him then?” Ashalan smiled.

“Yes you could say that.” She blushed again. She walked over to Ashalan and sat down on the bed. “My father doesn't approve though.” Her smile faded.

“I'm sorry to hear that. Maybe there is a way for you to be together?”

“I hope so. Once this war is over I'm sure father will be more open to other things. His mind has narrowed because of the hardships our people and others are suffering because of the madness. Hopefully it will be over soon given the information that you have provided.

“I hope so too. Seraphine must be beaten so that all the Kingdoms can live in peace again.” Ashalan said, putting her hand on Naiahala’s shoulder.

Naialala nodded and smiled.

“Father has sent a messenger hawk to your parents and has prepared a protection party for you to accompany you to the Kingdom of Sarau.” Naiahala said as she looked at Ashalan.

“I cannot travel with others, it is too dangerous and it is for their own safety. I must go now before anyone realises.” Ashalan said, picking the bag of supplies up and slinging it over her shoulder.

“As you wish. Follow me. There is a tunnel to the outer edge of our village that I can take you through so that you won't be seen.” Naiahala said as she started towards the door.

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Taking the handle, Naiahala opened it and peered out to check that it was clear. She looked back at Ashalan and motioned for her to follow her. They quietly crept along the corridor until they reached a large wooden door. Ashalan marvelled at the amazing works of art that lined the corridors. Naihala saw her expression and smiled.

“They are all gifts from other tribes. Do you like them?”

“Yes, very much. They are beautiful. One day I will repay your family with beauty and kindness in gratitude of all your help.” Ashalan said in earnest.

Naiahala smiled.

“Thank you Princess but it is not necessary. We must all help each other in times of war. We are all brothers and sisters together.”

“How did your family come to live on the banks of the river and not within it?” Ashalan asked.

“Our village used to be within the river, but many moons ago we were attacked there by someone adding poison to the water. Many of our people got very sick, so my father had to make the difficult choice to move us all to the surface. We can function normally in both air and water which is fortunate.” Naiahala explained as she led Ashalan further down the corridor. “The water is clear now and the poison has gone, but father prefers us to stay on land in case it happens again. We still use the river to travel and also for food. Maybe one day we’ll return there to live within it’s depths but for now we’re content.”

They pushed the large door open and there was a dark tunnel behind it, dug out of sediment and rock.

Naiahala grabbed a torch from the wall in the corridor and led Ashalan along it. It was dusty and dank, not unlike the caves she had just escaped from.

They reached a set of steps that were cut out of the tunnel walls and slowly started to climb them, being careful not to slip. When they could go no further, Naiahala waved the torch around to reveal a hatch above them. She handed Ashalan the torch so that she could push the heavy hatch open.

Moonlight came in and Naiahla climbed out, taking Ashalan's hand and helping her out too. Ashalan looked around. They appeared to be in a clearing in a forest. She could hear flowing water a little way in the distance. Naiahala grabbed her arm gently.

“We are here.” She pointed to the map on her arm. “There is the river, my home and where we have just come from. You must head away from it and follow this path through the forest. There are small elf villages along the way but they are peaceful and they will do you no harm. Remember, once you have passed them you'll have to go through the Hocharian forest to get to the desert and the border beyond.”

“Thank you so much Naiahala. I appreciate this with all my heart. “ Ashalan hugged Naiahala in a grateful embrace. Naiahala returned it and gave her a gentle squeeze.

“You are very welcome, my Princess. Now go before the sun rises. We will see each other again soon I am sure of it.” She smiled and waved goodbye as she took the torch and went back into the tunnel, pulling the hatch back down over her head.

Ashalan was alone again.