Nethilor watched as Caitrin's gaze flickered between him and the distant horizon. Her expression was a canvas of conflicting emotions: a mix of determination, regret, and a hint of fear. Orano, ever the observant companion, sensed the storm brewing within her.

"What do you have in mind?" he asked, his voice laced with a gentle curiosity.

Caitrin hesitated, her throat tightening. The words she longed to speak were caught in a tangle of guilt and self-doubt. Ever since they had embarked on this perilous journey, she had been haunted by a growing sense of unease. The thrill of adventure had gradually been overshadowed by a gnawing realization: she had made a mistake.

Gathering her courage, she met Orano's gaze. "Actually, I've been wanting to say this for a while," she began, her voice barely a whisper. "But I never found the right moment."

A flicker of apprehension crossed Orano's face. He sensed that this was no ordinary conversation. Caitrin continued, her words tumbling out in a rush:

"I know this might sound absurd, but it's been weighing heavily on me. With each new kingdom we've visited, each new creature we've encountered, these doubts have grown stronger. No matter how hard I try to ignore them, they won't leave."

She paused, taking a deep breath. "I just... I can't do this anymore."

Orano's eyes widened in surprise. He had never expected to hear such a thing from Caitrin. She had always been so driven, so focused on her goal.

"Ever since we started this journey, you've been incredibly supportive," she continued, her voice filled with gratitude. "Thanks to you, I've seen so much of the world, experienced so many adventures. You've even saved my life on more than one occasion. But I feel like I owe you so much more than I can ever repay."

A small smile tugged at her lips. "I know I hired you to accompany me, but I don't think this is the right arrangement. I've worked so hard to get to this point, and I don't want to drag you down with me any longer."

She bowed her head, her voice barely audible. "Let this be our farewell. Perhaps, one day, I'll be able to repay you."

As she turned to leave, Orano's voice rang out, sharp and commanding. "Where do you think you're going? You didn't ask my opinion."

Caitrin's heart skipped a beat as Orano's words washed over her. Her initial surprise quickly gave way to a sense of profound understanding. His words were a stark contrast to the doubts that had plagued her.

"Of course, we've faced many challenges," Orano continued, his voice firm but gentle. "But it wasn't you who brought us to this point. You've overcome every obstacle with incredible strength and determination."

He paused, his gaze unwavering. "I may have provided support, but your journey has been entirely your own. To abandon your goal now would be to invalidate everything you've accomplished. Your purpose is what gives you strength. Without it, you risk losing your way."

Caitrin's eyes filled with a newfound resolve. Orano's words resonated deep within her, dispelling the fog of doubt. "Every step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your destination," he continued. "Don't let self-doubt hold you back."

Relieved and grateful, Caitrin shook her head. "You're right. I shouldn't blame myself."

Orano reached into his bag and pulled out a small pouch. "And don't forget," he said, a mischievous glint in his eye, "we still have two weeks left. Our mission isn't over yet."

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As he walked past her, he added, "And we're both headed to Emperal. I think it might be a good idea to travel together for a while."

Caitrin's heart swelled with warmth. The doubts, the cold feelings, and the remorse she had harbored had vanished, replaced by a sense of peace and trust. She was certain now. From that moment on, she would trust Orano with all her heart.

With a weak voice and a radiant smile, she called out, "Tatsumi."

He turned, his expression a mix of surprise and curiosity. There, standing before him, was Caitrin, her eyes sparkling with sincerity.

"Thank you," she said, her voice filled with gratitude.

Caitrin's smile remained fixed on her lips as the words tumbled out of her mouth. Tatsumi, however, remained silent. His gaze softened as he turned away, a hint of melancholy in his eyes.

"We must depart now, or we risk missing our balloon," he said, his voice a low rumble. "The sooner we leave, the better."

Caitrin watched him with a mixture of admiration and respect. "Alright, you're the boss," she replied, her voice filled with a newfound confidence. "Lead the way."

After the speech, they moved towards the weather balloons.

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As they approached the air balloon launching site, a breathtaking panorama unfolded before them. A vibrant tapestry of balloons, each painted in a unique hue and adorned with intricate patterns, stretched out as far as the eye could see. They stood side by side, a harmonious symphony of color against the backdrop of a clear blue sky.

Despite the relative seclusion of the sixth kingdom, the bustling activity at the launch site was a testament to the air balloons' popularity. A steady stream of travelers arrived, eager to embark on their aerial adventures.

Caitrin's eyes widened in awe as she gazed upon the spectacle. "People actually ride these?" she exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder.

Orano nodded. "Indeed," he replied. "While ships and horse-drawn carriages are more traditional forms of transportation, air balloons offer a faster and more direct route to the sixth kingdom. They're the ideal choice for our journey."

As they admired the colorful display, a woman approached them, her smile warm and inviting. "Welcome," she said. "Would you like to rent a balloon, sir?"

Orano pointed towards a particularly striking red balloon. "Yes, that one," he replied.

The woman nodded approvingly. "Excellent choice, sir. May I see your identification, please?"

Orano handed her his ID. "And this is my companion," he added, gesturing towards Caitrin.

The woman examined the ID. "I see. As you're traveling together, you can share a balloon. However, there will be a fee of three gold coins."

Orano paid the woman, and she handed him a ticket. "Follow me, please."

As they walked towards the red balloon, Caitrin couldn't help but ask, "Why is it necessary to rent a balloon? Don't people own them?"

Orano explained, "Unlike other forms of transportation, air balloons are typically rented. You have exclusive use during your journey, but there are designated landing sites, such as this one, where you must return the balloon. Failure to do so may result in a fine. And while there are different operating procedures for air balloons, they offer a unique and enjoyable experience."

Caitrin's gaze lingered on the air balloons, a sense of awe washing over her. "He's right," she murmured to herself. "They are truly beautiful."

After a brief conversation, the woman led them to their balloon. As they approached, she paused and said, "You have a ten-hour flight. Please return the balloon to the designated landing site before time expires."

Orano nodded. "We will," he replied.

With their final preparations complete, they boarded the balloon. As it ascended, Caitrin's excitement surged. "We're actually flying!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder.

However, her exhilaration soon faded. As they reached a comfortable altitude, the tranquility of the sky lulled them into a sense of peace. Orano settled onto the floor, his eyes closed in a moment of relaxation.

The sun began its descent, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. Caitrin couldn't resist the temptation to gaze upon the breathtaking vista.

"I wish my friends could see this," she mused, a smile playing on her lips. "They'd go absolutely crazy."

Turning to Orano, she recalled his previous mention of an unsettling incident in the sixth kingdom. "You said you never wanted to return," she asked. "How will you handle this?"

Orano opened one eye, his expression contemplative. "It's a concern," he admitted. "But as I've mentioned before, finding the Rift is our priority. We have no choice but to go."

Caitrin nodded, her brow furrowed in thought. "Can you tell me what happened?" she inquired.

Orano closed his eyes again and sighed. "It was two years ago," he began, his voice filled with a hint of dread. "After defeating the Atranoch, we traveled to the sixth kingdom to sell its remains to a merchant."