~Day 146~
The guards showed up at my door in the early hours of the morning, dragging me up and out of bed before I could protest. If the council is prepared to see you, you don't have to be prepared to see them. Outside of my room stood two more guards on either side, guns in their arms. In the middle of the floor stood two men, Lieutenant Parse and the captain of the ship that rescued me, Obedya.
I let out a wry smile. "Pleasure to see you again, Captain." I bowed my head slightly. Compared to the previous world I lived in, the humans here live much longer, some go on to live for around 500 years. Obedya is shaping up to be one of them. Already over 300 years of age, he could still put any of his subordinates to shame on the field.
He tipped his hat lightly in response. "It's pleasant to see you as well Commander. It's been too long since we exchanged pleasantries." The tease of a smile jumped upon his face before quickly disappearing again. "Now that's over, we have a meeting to attend to." He stepped to the side motioning for me to walk. I shook my head as I stepped in to line.
That was about the level of interaction one can expect from the legendary Captain Obedya. Stoic doesn't even come close. The fact that he even hinted at smiling meant he considers me a close friend. Even then, no one can deny his loyalty, he was the only man willing to risk his ship to rescue me and my guess is he only accepted volunteers on that mission. There are very few captains that gain as much respect from their subordinates as Obedya.
As we walked, two guards stood at my front, guiding us to the command room, many crew members we passed; some of which I recognised, looked upon me with worry. I would also worry if I was in the same situation, but the look on their faces was often something more than worry. It was fear, and I don't think that fear was directed at me. I turned to look at Obedya and Parse behind me, Obedya didn't so much as blink, however Parse looked away chuckling nervously. Clearly there was something more to worry about that just my punishment, I just wish I knew what.
When we finally arrived at the command room, the council was already waiting on screen. "Commander Anya. If it weren't for my own eyes I wouldn't believe it." One of the Council Members spoke. I looked up at the screen at the council, the one who spoke was Admiral of the Fleet Osyrus Orma Oren. The man in charge of Eins entire navy. "I believe I can speak on behalf of the entire council when I say. Welcome back, Commander." Oren showed off a grin barely visible through his thick grey beard.
The council. Also known as the United Council of Systems or UCoS for short consisted of ten to fifteen individuals from the most advanced species around the galaxy. Scanning the faces upon the council, the members have changed somewhat. Six Humans from the planet Ein, also three Dwarves from Ein, then two Aiir from the planet Qou and finally three Ornik from the dead planet Xana.
It was obvious Ein and Humanity were the dominant race in the Galaxy, which is why the council would assemble just to decide the fate of one Human. However, as each member of the council is considered equal, they all have the right to not attend if they so wish. So the fact that every member of the races not from Ein have come probably doesn't mean anything good.
Osyrus cleared his throat, tapping the ash from the end of his cigarette somewhere off screen. "I'm sure you know why you're here Commander Anya." He started. "And I'm also sure you've figured out there's something more going on." I nodded my head. "Good." He sighed glancing around the table. "We understand the situation. What that planet did to you, and we've taken it in to consideration. Even so, you killed a medical officer, an offence we can not ignore." I braced my hands behind my back, what will it be? A demotion? A reassignment? Or perhaps even a discharge. Osyrus moved to open his mouth, before quickly closing it again and glancing at another council member. A Dwarf, one I did not recognise. "You will be demoted to Lieutenant Commander, and... Reassigned to the 211th Pathfinders." Osyrus removed the round spectacles from his nose and rubbed his eyes.
He was acting as if he just delivered the worst news possible. However, I could only see this as a positive. A relatively minor demotion and a reassignment? This is better than I had hoped for. "I am not familiar with the 211th, sir. May I ask who my commanding officer will be?" I respectfully inquired.
Osyrus placed his glasses back on his nose gave me a difficult frown. "Before that, Lieutenant Commander, you have to understand the situation we're in." Situation? I glanced around at every member of the council. Some shifted uncomfortably in their seats. "What do you believe would happen, if the creatures on that planet had space travel." Osyrus lent in to his seat, his experienced eyes staring right through me.
What Osyrus said hit me, whilst he didn't outright say it, he wasn't exactly being subtle either. Those creatures, those monsters, they had been spotted in space. "To what level? How many? When?" I fired off three questions quickly.
"They were first spotted in Aiir space four months ago." One of the Aiir council members replied to me. "After that more and more appearances across all known space." The Aiir closed all four of it's eyes. "In every encounter, the survivors were... Limited."
Limited? Sh*t, by Aiir standards that means one or two at best. "Council members. Is it safe to assume we are at war?" I straightened my back and narrowed my eyes at the screen in front of me. Osyrus let out a weathered sigh, then nodded his head. "And I assume this is related to why I'm being reassigned?" I asked a second question.
Osyrus nodded again. "As the woman with the most experience with these creatures, we need you to advise us, but we couldn't just let you go unpunished for what you did. I apologise for going about this in such a roundabout way." He waved his hand. "Anyway, I'm sure you're well aware about the... abilities of the creatures." He carried on.
I can see where this is going. "Their ability to... Take over the corpses of other creatures?" I asked, knowing full well that's what he meant.
Osyrus nodded grimly. "Such an ability is... Unsettling at the very least. At the most, it makes this war seem impossible." He sighed in to his hands once again. "Which is why the Pathfinders are more important now than ever." He glanced down at the crew on our side of the screen.
The Pathfinders, an obvious choice to fight such an enemy. Our job may be to find new planets, but for that purpose we have the fastest ships in the navy. Not only that, Pathfinders are still a military division one that explores new places, we are trained to deal with any kind of threat, unknown or otherwise. Topped with having relatively small numbers, the Pathfinders are ideal for fighting the creatures. "I understand why it is important I stay as an officer in the Pathfinders, but that doesn't explain why I am being reassigned." I addressed the council.
Osyrus looked at the same Dwarf again, who was now smirking, "The 211th is the newest Pathfinder company. Since this war involves every race in the UCoS, it's a... Joint company. We wish for you to... Train them, turn them in to a company the Pathfinders can be proud of." Osyrus looked about as troubled as I felt.
I bit my tongue and held in the choice words I had for the council. Assigning the woman with the most knowledge on our enemy, to baby sit their little experiment. What could the council possibly be thinking?! "... I understand, council members. May I ask who my commanding officer is?" I gritted my teeth.
"Commodore Juna Blackale." Osyrus pressed a button on the desk in front of him and a service record appeared on the screen in front of him. The woman in question stood about 4 foot tall, and had short silky black hair held up in a ponytail. "As you can guess from the name, she is a Dwarf, more importantly the heiress to the Blackale name. She passed the commanders exam with flying colours." He continued. Then just as soon as it appeared the record disappeared.
I glanced over at the smirking Dwarf. His head was covered in the very same black hair as the woman on screen. I see, so even when we're at war with such a terrifying foe, nepotism runs rampant in politics. I had to clench my fists to stop myself from doing anything that would land me in a worse situation. "I understand I will do my utmost to... Assist the Commodore." I replied through steady forced breathing. "Is there anything else you need me for?" I asked.
"One more thing and you're free to go. We have not made the existence of these creatures public yet, and we do not plan to unless absolutely necessary. Spreading unneeded panic would only make things worse. So whilst you're free to visit any civilian friends or family members you might have, you cannot discuss any of this with them." Osyrus gave me a stern glance.
He knew just as well as I did the ridiculous situation I've been put in. I can't blame him for going along with it, we could lose not just the support of the Blackale family, but the support of even the Dwarven military and if my four years on that planet taught me anything, it's that for an enemy like this we all need each other.
I saluted before turning to leave the room. Even now that i'm back in civilisation, I can't escape those creatures, and it seems like now, I may be in an even worse situation that before.
As my eyes opened, every corner of my vision was consumed by a rather larger Wolf. "Woah!" I yelped as I fell of my bunk. "Goof moring oy." I muffled in to the floor boards. Alvir nudged my body the right way up and began to lick my face. With a smile I happily ruffled his fur in retaliation.
Another memory, huh? This one seemed to take place right after my previous one. Why am I remembering all this now? For some reason all of my life before I crashed on to that planet has become clear to me too. I can remember it all like they're all my own memories...
Well they are all my own memories, just ones I'd completely forgotten for reason I don't yet know. Either way, I think I need to ask Venya what she knows.
"Geh." Venya replied. That's it. I just spent ten minutes explaining my memories to her and 'geh' is how she replies? I raised my eyebrows at her. She let out a sigh and sat down on a nearby barrel. "The thing is, I don't know too much about your life or the Pathfinders in general. I've heard of Obedya and Blackale, but only through gossip and praise." Venya shrugged.
I rested against the outside of the captains cabin. "I thought you said I was famous? I mean, I remember my life before the war with the creatures and even then I was relatively well known." I aked her.
Venya nodded her head. "Yeah yeah. You were a famous f*cking war hero. But I didn't have time to pay attention to your exploits, as I was too busy with my own. You're lookin' at an ace pilot here." I gave her a quizzical expression. "An ace pilot who had many warnings and suspensions, but still an A star b*tch in a ship." She winked.
A snigger escaped my lips. "Alright, I can imagine that. What can you tell me about Blackale though?" I asked her.
Venya scratched behind the holes that I assume are her ears with a long hum. "Not much I'm afraid. The Blackale family were pretty well known, influential enough to even get on tha' council you know? Sh*t that b*tch must've been born with a golden pacifier shoved in her mouth." She shrugged.
"So she was a spoilt princess?" I asked sighing. I'm not sure I want to have more memories if that's the case.
Venya shook her head. "Honestly doubt it. From what I heard she was a good commander. Strong under pressure that sort of thing. Probably stuck up though." She chuckled. I nodded my head in agreement, if that father of hers was anything to go by she would have been at least a little spoilt. Venya let out a slight sigh as her expression softened. "Still. It'd be nice to know what happened to Ein, to everything after I died." She turned her head to look me in the eye. "Tell me, when you get your memories back, I want to know. Whether you died to the creatures too, or whether, somehow we won." Venya showed an oddly serious expression.
I walked over to her and squeezed her shoulder giving her a reassuring smile. "You'll be the first to know, when I know." She placed her hand on top of mine. "Provided I can actually find you." I carried on. Venya chuckled.
She looked me in the eye again. "Thank you, Ellena." She grinned. I patted her shoulder in response.
"No problem." I replied taking my hand of her shoulder.
Venya sat backwards then proceeded to rock back and forth on the barrel. "Still. Gotta wonder, why are your memories returnin' in such a weird way." Furrowing my brow I lightly shrugged.
As I was about to open my mouth to reply, another voice beat me to it. "I believe I know of the reason." Standing above us next to the ships wheel was Alka, she must have overheard our conversation where she was standing.
I looked at Venya then back at the Orc. "What do you think it is then?" I asked her. Without saying anything the Shaman proceeded to walk down the steps towards us before pulling a ball of wool out from under her robe. I looked down at it, then back up in to her eyes. "A ball... Of wool?" I asked. She nodded her head. "Why do you have a ball of wool?" I asked a second question.
"I knit." She replied with a serious expression.
"You knit?" Venya asked emphasising the you.
Alka nodded her head. "Yes, it's a relaxing hobby."
I stood still for a second and exchanged glances with Venya. After an awkward few seconds Venya broke the silence. "What do you knit?"
"We're getting off topic here." Alka said refocusing the subject. "I believe the reason your memories are coming back slowly, is your souls way of subconsciously trying to keep you sane." She said.
I backed up a little. "Sane?"
Alka thought for a moment. "Possibly not the most accurate word to use, but yes. All those lost memories coming back at once would damage anyone." She replied.
I shook my head. "No, I remember all of my life before the crash and all of my previous life I spent here. Why would the second half of my life in Ein be different." I asked.
"Because something happened during it that hid your memories from you." She lifted up the wool. "Think of it this way, you pull on the wool, it slowly unravels." She pinched the end of the ball and it began to unravel. "But you yank it to hard, making the whole thread unravel at once and..." She proceeded to do so and the ball collapsed in on itself. "You're recalling things that you or something decided shouldn't be recalled. You're just stopping it from destroying you." She finished.
I nodded my head. "That does make sense. More than anything I could think up at least. Just knowing what took my memories, I feel as though it's important, even now."I sighed.
Alka placed her hand on my shoulder. "Then patience must be had, young Dryad." I nodded my head with a wry smile.
"Can I, uh... Just ask one thing." Venya interjected.
Alka turned to face her. "Go ahead."
Venya narrowed her eyes and stared at Alkas hand. "Was the wool necessary there."
Alka thought for a moment and shook her head. "Not really, I was just looking for an excuse to ruin this ball." She said turning around.
Venya sat forward. "Why?" She asked confused.
Alka began to walk back up the stairs throwing the remains of the wool off the side of the ship. "The colours not right." She muttered.
I turned back to Venya who was looking at the Orc with the same look of confusion and wonder as me. She then looked back at me. "We have got to find out what she knits before the end of this journey."
I nodded enthusiastically. "Oh yeah." I replied. When you find someone like Alka with such an unexpected hobby, you have no choice but to find out more.
The rest of they day, I just thought about what Alka said. There's no guarantee what she's right, but it seems like a reasonable response. I had my memories of life as Rozaline since birth, so they weren't out of place, but suddenly new memories are surfacing. However, why is it I can now remember everything before the crash. Why is that not dangerous, I mean sure nothing to stranger happened, I rose through the ranks fighting pirates and rebels and even a war or two. I have one hundred and thirty years worth of memories built up in Ein. So why is that not damaging me but the years after would.
There was also something else that occurred to me. Ein had Dwarfs. No Elves, no Demons, just Humans and Dwarfs. Did they go extinct, did they ever exist in the first place? I would ask Venya about that, but I doubt she'd be much help. She doesn't exactly seem the scholarly type.
With new memories coming, at least I'll have alot to think about for the rest of this voyage. I think we're probably about halfway there by now anyway. I have no idea what to expect from the Demon Continent. The only book I ever read about it was quite out of date, my Father bought it for my when I was very little in the market.
If I remember correctly, it's hot, very very hot. Most of the land is just desert. Although a lot of the towns and cities exist in an oasis. Demon made ones, they used magic to find areas with water underground and built settlements around. Then there's also a giant jungle in the south which the capital city sitting just on the edge. According to the book, it's a breathtaking site. The problem is getting there, I'm used to relative heat due to where I lived in my previous life, but I had plenty of water and food to eat there.
Well, I'm sure we'll be fine. Gial is leading us when we reach it, and he's been to the Demon Continent before. I can rest easy until then, I'm sure.
~Day 147~
I completely forgot. I had planned to start my next project yesterday, but with that dream and conversation with Venya I'd completely forgotten about it. Still even now that I've remembered, I still don't exactly know what I should make.
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The Elves game me plenty of leather so it's not exactly like I'm going to use it all before we arrive on the Demon Continent, so I can pretty much make anything. Well, anything that's within my ability to make.
Just as I was thinking about what to make with my tools spread out in front of my, Alvir came over to rest his head on my lap. His large body spread across the deck next to me. "You tired from playing boy?" I asked his scratching his head. His bark was joyful in response. Him and Venya have been swimming together a lot recently, I'm sure as much as he loves having a playmate, it must be tiring for him. Wolves are pretty good swimmers overall, but they're not going to compare to a Frog lady.
Still Alvir coming over gave me an idea. "Hey. Alvir, how would you feel about helping me carry supplies?" I asked him. THe Wolf tilted his oversized head in response. "Wearing a little harness with bags attached. It means we could take more with us." I carried on, he's smart enough to understand me, so I can ask him if he'd be willing to help me out in this way. After a few second Alvir barked happily and nuzzled his face into my lap. I'll take that as a yes then?
Not just will this give me quite a big project to fill up my time with, it will also be very practical. We had to leave so much behind on the Central Continent as Verros and I couldn't carry everything. With a big Wolf like Alvir helping my carry leather and things I should be able to keep up my crafting. Of course I won't make him carry any more than he wants to, I don't think I've ever seen this dumb Wolf in a bad mood and i'm not sure I want to.
So, with a lot of care so I wouldn't wake the now sleeping Alvir, I began my work. First off I wanted to make the harness itself, Alvir sleeping next to me made it much easier to measure up the size I'll need.
I want to use something to make it softer on the inside so it doesn't chafe him, then again he already has fur, so would adding more fur be weird? Does he even need it? Well I'll add something else just in case, some thick cloth, one of Alkas shamans gave me some, said it was for the dungeons of the Demon Continent. I wonder if that means the dungeons are really cold for some reason? That would be a bit strange.
As the hours past I finished my design for the rather large bulky harness, even on it's own without any bags attached, the thing would weigh a lot. Luckily Alvir is quite a strong wolf. It's gotten too dark to work now, but I can put the design in to motion and finish the harness tomorrow.
The only issue is, Alvir hasn't woken up once yet and I kind of want to get something to eat before I go to bed. What exactly should I do in the scenario. I could just wake him, but his expression is so gentle, tranquil even. How could my hard muscular legs be so relaxing?!
I guess I have no choice, somehow I'm going to have to pick up his oversized body and carry it to my cabin without waking him. With a terrible plan in mind, I slowly lifted Alvirs head and moved my legs, then after carefully replacing my leg with a pile of soft cloth, as to not disturb his comfort I shifted over to his side. After a few deep breaths, I carefully wrapped my arms under his hefty body and lifted it.
There, that was the easy part, he doesn't weigh too much, however. How am I supposed to get his body through the door without waking him. Out of nowhere I got an idea. I hugged his body up against mine. He was smaller than me, so therefore he can fit through the door!
So after that, with much struggling I managed to get him to his bed at the foot of mine. To be honest, I think even if I woke him he wouldn't have been than bothered. he'll have to wake soon anyway to eat the food I laid out for him. Can't have him going to bed on an empty stomach.
Ah well, what's done is done. Most of the other had already gone to bed themselves. So after I snuck a bit of food and cleared up my corner of mess on the deck. I went to bed myself.
~Day 148~
The weather was getting even hotter. Today I awoke in a sweat. I thought I would be fine on the Demon Continent, but if it's even hotter than this I'm not sure. Perhaps I should at least not wear my overcoat? I mean, that can't help, it's very thick after all. I've even decided not to wear it today, I'm just going to wear my shirt and leggings. Although I feel as though a few of the Orcs have been looking at me in a certain way.
I'll just have to find somewhere a bit quieter to work today. With that in mind, I went to the insides of the ship, I found a quiet spot that still got plenty of sunlight from a nearby window. Today, Alvir wasn't with me, he wasn't with Venya either. He was just bathing in the sun with Odwiff using him as a pillow. The Dwarf looks so small next to Alvir.
With no distractions I got right on with my work, with all the plans in place I could freely concentrate on crafting the harness. I made sure to take Alvirs measurements beforehand and also asked the Elven craftsmen some advice on how to proceed. So I have what I think is the perfect design.
Saying that though, by the time it had become too dark to continue working, I had only finished the basic structure. I'm learning to be a better craftsman, but it takes a longer time than the older cruder work I did.
Still, it should be finished easily tomorrow, all I have to do is fit the cloth and add a little detailing and it'll be finished. Not that detailing is a must have, but I do enjoy making it look nice. Makes me think I could actually make something worth trading some day. Can't say I imagine I'll have much reason for trading though, what with all the money the Queen gave me.
I decided to leave my work where it was, I was exhausted due to the heat, which somehow scorched even at evening time, so I don't want to lug around heavy piles of leather. So after a bite to eat I went straight to bed.
~Day 149~
I slept over the sheets last night, I can't remember the last time I did that. Well there was that one really hot planet that was mostly just rock and suffering, but that was my previous life. Maybe in this body it would have been even hotter? That's a weird thing to think about, I wonder what else is different between the three different bodies I've had.
Alvir, who as a Grey Wolf is used to quite a lot cooler climates, was not enjoying the heat today, which was the highest it has been since we set sail. He decided to come and join me inside the ship, which was remarkably cooler than the outside. However, I don't think either of us could have predicted what we found inside.
Something in the air felt a little off as soon as we arrived in the unnaturally dark room, but it was when we reached my work area that it became obvious. Laying on the pile of unused Leather, was an Light Elf. A Light Elf I knew quite well. "Amenia." I whispered under my breath.
The Elf in front of me looked weak, she did not float in the sky as before, but was sprawled upon the leather. Despite the high quality of her clothes, they somehow looked beaten. For some reason her eyes were closed.Something was wrong with this Elf. "Lady Ellena..?" She whispered, her eyes slowly fluttered open to reveal something that shocked me.
Her pupils were gone, instead her eyes were just pure white. "What happened to yours eyes?" I asked cautiously. Alvir who was stood behind me, walked to my side and gave Amenia a low growl.
Amenia weakly held her hand in front of her eyes, a pained expression spread across her face. "Punishment." She muttered.
My brows narrowed. "For what?" I asked her, already knowing the answer.
Her face turned to where my voice was coming from. "For meeting you." She whispered.
I balled my hand in to a fist. "They made you blind, for meeting me?" I carried on gritting my teeth. What kind of ridiculous punishment is that.
Amenia let off a pained smile. "Do not worry my Lady, it is not permanent. I will gain my vision back when I have attoned."
Attoned is it? What exactly does that mean? I'm guessing whatever it means, this is probably the start. She's too weak to risk coming here herself, so she must be here for her atonement. "What are you here for, Amenia. A warning?" I asked her staying cautioned.
Amenias eyes saddened. "I am an example of what the Light Elves are capable of. It is as you said, I am here as a warning, my Lady." She hung her head as she finished her sentence.
For all the Light Elves problems, they seem to respect me for whatever reason. So i'm not sure what purpose this threat serves, also more importantly. "A warning for what?" I carried on my line of questioning.
The weak Elf seemed to look me in the eye despite her ailment. "Do not become involved in the Demon Continents affairs." She replied.
I squeezed my fist hard. Is that it? The damned Light Elves are even involved with the Demon Continent? Is it something to do with this rebellion they're currently dealing with? I felt a sharp pain as my nails pierced my balled palm. I get too worked up over the Light Elves, I need to calm myself down.
After a few breaths I looked back at the Light Elf in front of me. "It doesn't matter what threats you give me, I already know the Light Elves wont hurt me. So what's the point?" I smirked. It was a little immature, but anger can make you like that.
Amenia shook her head. "We would never harm you, my Lady. Or Lady Venya. However, the mortals you have made your... friends? We would have no problem harming them. Not even those currently too weak to defend themselves." She narrowed her eyes as she spoke.
Verros? Now she's threatening Verros?! I stomped over to where Amenia lay and pulled her up to my face by her collar. With a slight splintering I slammed her against a nearby wall. "AH!" She let out a pained yelp. "You listen to me right now b*tch. Right now, at the moment, you seem even weaker than these 'mortals' you so happily look down on and you decided that now is the best time to threaten my friends? My family?!" I pulled her up to my face. "I'm not going to sit down and take that kind of threat." I growled in her face.
Amenia weakly raised her hands. "I'm just relaying a message my lady! Please!" She pleaded, her hands trying to hold me back. I grit my teeth and threw her to the ground. She wasn't wrong, and besides I'm not going to kill someone who can't fight back. I felt a large body brush up against mine, Alvir looked up at me with concern.
Of course he'd be worried, I can't lose myself again, so getting angry isn't a good idea. "It's okay boy, I'm alright." I whispered as I stroked his head.
Amenia caught her breath and dropped her head. "I don't understand, why you care for these creatures so much." She spat out weakly.
"And I don't understand why you hate them so much." I growled back at her.
She scrunched up her brows. "Because they are dirty. They role around in the dirt, they fight like beasts, they're weak but still are always fighting. It's disgusting." She hissed.
I sat down opposite the Elf and let Alvir rest his head on my lap. "Yet I'm one of them." I replied.
Amenia eyes widened and she shook her head rapidly. "You are not anything like them milady. You're special!" She assured me.
I chuckled. "Special? Why because I'm a pillar? If I didn't have this skill, I'd be no different than them."
Amenia's expressions softened a little. "It is because you're special, that you have that skill." She replied.
I let out an amused sigh. "Is that so?" I replied. I didn't know what else to reply. In this life and the last one I had here, I remember so many people. The strong, the kind, the weak and the cruel. Everyone's different, to hate every mortal for those reasons. I can't see it. "I'm nothing special, in this world. It's so full of people, all kinds of people, to hate them all is foolish. And I hope, one day I convince you and your people of that." I chuckled. "Hopefully using my fists to do the talking." I looked up to see her expression and was surprised by what I saw.
Her face was red, not just that she had the same expression a child has when they're told off. I blinked twice and rubbed my eyes to make sure of what I was seeing. "Please think about what I said. Milady." She replied, ignoring what I had just said. "I'm leaving now." She said a light enveloping her.
"Huh?! Wai-" Before I could finish my sentence, she had disappeared, only particles of dust remained. I sat back down and lent against a nearby pillar. That was odd, really quite odd. What was that reaction about?
I breathed a deep sigh. Her reaction wasn't really the thing most on my mind at the moment though. That threat. I have to get the Demons on our side, but surely i'd need to do something for them to get that? They're dealing with a dangerous rebellion, they can't just up and leave for a stranger. Besides, their continent isn't in any immediate danger from Levias, the chances are weighed against me. I let out another sigh before I heard a set of boots clunking on the floor. I turned my head quickly to find Gial resting against a nearby pillar and lighting his pipe.
"So. What are you gonna do ma'am?" He asked, his usual smirk on his face.
I turned back to face where Amenia sat earlier and let out another sigh. "How long were you there for?" I asked the Dark Elf.
He chuckled walking over to me and sitting in Amenias place. "Well now, I'd say since about the start." He gave me a big grin. "Y'see I wanted to see this here harness y'all were making for Alvir. So when I spotted ya comin' in here I followed you right in." He winked.
I rolled my eyes. "And you couldn't have said something earlier? Maybe back me up a bit." I felt my eye twitch lightly.
The odd Elf shook his finger. "Now now missy. I'm positively convinced my intervention would have only exacerbated the situation." He replied with a flurry.
I want to thump him. Not a lot, but I still want to. "You seem to be taking what she said awfully lightly you know? If I decide to help the Demon Queen with the rebellion you'll be at risk you know?" I looked him in the eye.
His expression turned serious for a second before he smirked again. "You consider me a friend? I'm honoured my lady." He replied bowing.
"Gial." I called out to him. The Elf looked me back in the yes and his smile disappeared.
"You know, if they're your friends Ellena. Your family. They wouldn't blame you no matter the decision you make. That's the sort of people you have around you. And I ain't no exception." He replied.
"Even though your life might be in danger?" I asked him.
He chuckled, his grin coming back. "Missy my life is always in danger." He mused.
I let out a slight giggle. He certainly wasn't wrong with anything he said, lives like ours are always in danger anyway. However, the Light Elves are a bigger threat than anything we've faced before. "Thank's Gial... I'll have to think about it." I smiled up at him.
The Elf took a long drag on his pipe before nodding his head satisfied. "Well of course you do." He then looked over at the harness and the pile of leather next to it. "I have to say though missy, that looks good. Wouldn't think you've been doing this for less than a year." He whistled.
I looked over it almost forgetting his original intention for coming in here. "O-oh, thanks." I replied a little flustered.
"Say uh, you mind if I stay here a little, watch ya work?" He asked tentatively.
I narrowed my eyes at him. "You're not just trying to get out of work are you?" I asked.
Gial stood back placing his hand on his chest. "Me? Avoid work? I positively never heard such a thing." He replied mockingly.
I sighed quietly, before turning to my own work. "You can stay." I replied chuckling.
"Thank ye ma'am." Gial came and sat next to me, the smoke from his pipe drifting out the nearby window. The nearby window that was actually letting light in now. What strange being the Light Elves are, they have magic that can blot out light and the ability to teleport, even when weakened to that state. I hate to admit it, but they certainly seem like special beings even in this world.
To take my mind off the Light Elves I began working, it's not that I wanted to avoid making a decision, it's just that it isn't something I should choose quickly. To help the Demons and risk the deaths of those close to me, or to not and risk not having a powerful enough force to stop Levias and well, to stop the continent from being destroyed. Honestly I feel as though life would be easier if I was a colder person sometimes.
After a few hours Alka came in to drag Gial away to the work he'd been avoiding. Leaving me alone with Alvir and my thoughts. Although I tried to just focus on the work. Still despite the initial setback and being a bit distracted, I finally finished the harness in it's entirely. I still had a few hours left after, so I did think about starting on the bags it would hold, but instead I thought I'd test it out a little.
After a bit of a struggle I managed to get it on to Alvir, it's not like he was against having it on, it's just a bit difficult to attach something like that to a hyperactive Wolf.
It was still boiling hot outside, so I wanted to see if Alvir was okay wearing it in such weather. Luckily it didn't seem to bother him in the slightest. He just tottered around like he usually would. I was expecting at least a little resistance...
Sometimes it feels like the world could end and he'd still happily dart around. A warm feeling filled me. Really to think he's been with me the longest. Just before I left the forest all those months ago.
My warm thoughts were interrupted my belly growling. A few of the crewmen looked at me before carrying on with their own work. That's... A little embarrassing.
It was nearing dinner time, so I decided to get some dinner for Alvir and I, before going back on to the deck to relax. I'd been working non stop the past few days, so to relax for a few hours and watch the sun go down over the water feels good. It also gives me a chance to think a bit more.
I sat on the railing with Alvir resting his head over it as the sun sat on the ocean. The still calm ocean glistened and sparkled against the sun, above us I could see the mood and a few stars begin to fade in to existence. Looking around I could see a few other faces watch the beautiful event.
I feel as though this kind of sight stays beautiful no matter how used to it you get. Even the most veteran sailor must eventually stop to watch the sun fall.
We stayed there for a while as others began to head below deck for their nap. Those on night duty, the mages and the crew began to spread out on to the deck. I glanced over at Alvir who was letting of a big yawn, he still had the harness on and it didn't seem to bother him at all. So the day had been a success. No matter what happened in the morning.
I let out a sigh having thought about Amenia again. What reason do the Light Elves have for getting involved everywhere? What else have they done? Are they behind the Empires rapid conquering? Are they behind Levias.
I shook my head, that last one, I think is beyond anyone. I let out a sigh as Alvir and I arrived in my cabin. After a bit of a struggle we got his new harness off, he shook his fur a little, but other than that didn't seem bothered. Just before I hopped in to my bunk I heard a knock on my cabin door. "Come in." I whispered.
The door opened lightly and Gial stepped in. He scratched his scruffy beard. "I've been thinkin' missy, about some of the stuff Amenia said. I don't think she's as bad as she acts." He said.
I was a bit confused, did he come by just to tell me that? "Okay? What do you mean?" I asked.
Gial sighed having difficulty getting what he meant across. "I mean, the lady doesn't seem to fully believe what she says. About us. Seems to me she says what she's been taught, not what she thinks." He shrugged his shoulders.
I tilted my head. "So you don't think she hates mortals." I asked him.
Gial thought for a moment before nodding his head. "Might just be me being hopeful, but I got that feelin'. Either way, I don't think you have much to worry about in that department, Ellena." He smirked.
Oh is that it? He's trying to cheer me up. A gentle smiled spread across my lips. "Thank you, Gial." I replied to him.
He scratched his head bashfully. "T'aint nothing ma'am. I'd best head of to bed meself now. Have a good sleep now y'all hear." He replied before closing the door behind him.
I closed my eyes with a smile on my face. "You too." I replied. For all his strangeness, Gial has a good heart.
~Day 150~
The weather had cooled a bit, so Alvir went back to playing in the water with Venya, who seemed to have no problem with the heat. It probably helped that she didn't wear many clothes even now she had a humanoid body. As a people Elves aren't known to be too lecherous as they're brought up around a largely beautiful species, so they might not oggle her too much. On top of that the Orcs seem to be in to muscular women, which I have found from some of their gazes towards me, but I'm worried what it'll be like when she gets to the main land with so much of her skin on show like that. Maybe I should have made her some armour.
I'm getting off topic. It should only be around three days until we reach the Demon Continent, hard to believe we're so close. So due to that, I have three days to finish enough satchels and containers for Alvirs harness and I believe I can do it in two. After all they seem relatively simple to make and I'm not going to put too much effort in to the design of something that will probably wear down quickly.
Since the weather was cooler I decided to work outside today, it'll be easier to see and I don't have to worry about any Light Elves popping up out of nowhere and threatening everyone I care about. Which is definitely a plus.
With no interruptions, and a whole day of nice weather, I completed four very basic satchels. They were not built to last and were not built to look pretty, but they'll do the job for now. With the lights gone down, and having already eaten thanks to Odwiff bringing me some food. I tidied my things away and head for bed.
For some reason Alvir decided to sleep on my bunk today, still wet from swimming. I had to take the wet sheet from under him and move it aside so I didn't have to use a wet blanket. Then after carefully manoeuvring his body, I found a comfortable spot under him.
I'm glad they gave me the largest bed on the ship, because if they gave me a basic one, both of our weights combined would be just too much. This bed itself is already creaking, and Alvir is heavy. Not that I have trouble holding him up, but it's still a little uncomfortable.
I'm a bit worried that when he evolves again he'll get even bigger, the images running through my mind of an Alvir the size of the Lonely Wolf are terrifying. Drowning families in seas of saliva.
Best not to think about it, I'm sure he wont get that large, he is a Grey Wolf still, well for now. I'm still worried, even now. I'll just try and sleep.
With an odd dilemma stuck in my mind, I fell asleep.
[Name: Ellena Orcsbane]
[Age: 149 Days]
[Species: Arbor Ferrous, Dryad]
[Height: 7'-6"]
[Sex: Female]
[Title/s: Kin of Ellephwen, Wolfmother, Slayer.]
{Level: 47]
[Health: 45196/45195]
[Mana: 7581/7581]
[Stamina: 34442/34462]
[Hunger: 34301/34462]
[Attack: 30518]
[Defence: 53842 + 22000]
[Magic Attack: 8427]
[Magic Defence: 16469]
[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 71}]
[tough stomach lvl 8] [Unarmed Combat Expert lvl 9] [Polearm Expert lvl 4]
[Demifoot lvl 10] [Warriors Heart lvl 48] Up! [Warriors Will lvl 35]
[Warriors Strength lvl 41] [Greater Regeneration lvl 8] [Guardian lvl 10 (Max)]
[Dryads Charm lvl 16] Up! [Skinning lvl 5] [Tanning lvl 4]
[Leatherworking lvl 7] Up! [Carving lvl 3] [Earth Magic lvl 9]
[{Wolfmother lvl 13}] Up! [{Pillars Aura lvl 10}]