Aluin collapsed into the chair that was offered. A bead of sweat rolled down his brow before he wiped it away. The sound of crowing roosters could be heard from outside, alerting the world to the new day sun.

“Are you sure you want to do this today?” a voice asked as a plate of food was set down in front of him. “I’m sure we can postpone the meet–”

He waved the concern away. “I’ll be fine… Thank you for the food.”

The figure let out a grunt and took their seat adjacent to him. “If you say so… However, can you at least fill me in? You’ve been bringing in the other tribal leaders for the last two weeks.”

Aluin looked up to the figure, to Chief Yorlen. “I suppose I do owe you a bit of an explanation, and a bit of a forewarning.”

The chief cocked an eyebrow at that, taking a sip from his wooden cup. “Forewarning? What are you planning?”

Taking a moment to consider just how much he should say, Aluin took a few measured bites from his plate. Chief Yorlen has been quite cooperative and accommodating to me… I’ll need his help too.

“I plan on recommending we select a new queen," he said, deciding to go all in.

The Chief, in the middle of setting his cup down, froze. “You…want to select a new queen? Why– How? There isn’t anyone who has any noble blood that I’m aware of.”

He nodded. “There isn’t. However, we don’t need anyone of noble blood. If we can get the tribes to agree, we can…elect a new one.”

“I see… I think I do anyway. That’s a bit of a surprise, but I can sort of understand. Is it because of the dragon queen’s passing?”

“Partially,” Aluin admitted. “But that isn’t the only reason. I’ve been planning this long before her passing. Since we came to this island, in fact.”

Chief Yorlen leaned back in his chair. “You know, I sometimes forget just how old you are. Still, I’m glad we have you. I fear what would’ve happened to us if you never made it…”

Wincing, the Sage looked away. “For what it’s worth, I don’t think much would have changed. I haven’t exactly been the most active in rebuilding our society…”

“But you are now. With how long I’ve known you for, you were probably looking for the right individual and the right time. And now? You have both, don’t you?”

Aluin couldn’t help but let a smile slip. “Indeed.”

Looking satisfied, Chief Yorlen crossed his arms and asked the next question. “Who is it?”

“Eri.”

The Chief’s eyes went wide. “Your apprentice? Can’t say I saw that coming, but… Actually, no, I take that back. It somehow makes sense.” He leaned forward and gave Aluin a serious look.

“However, I don’t know if the others would agree. They will definitely want to throw their own proteges into the running, and I can’t say I blame them. Especially if you are wanting to ‘elect’ a new queen.”

“Truth be told, I’m expecting it,” Aluin said. “It isn’t going to be easy, but I’m prepared and I have a plan.”

“Oh? What is your plan, if you don’t mind me asking?”

He took a few more bites of food before answering. “Felix.”

“Felix? But he’s courting Eri, that’s pretty much an open secret. I fail to see how he will be the key to deciding who we should elect. He would be a biased judge…”

Aluin shook his head. “I mean no offense, but it’s you who is biased. While it’s true that Felix is courting Eri, that’s because they get along rather well. You’ve met him, and it’s obvious what your opinion is of him.”

“But…?” Chief Yorlen asked.

“But, what of the others? The ones who haven’t met him? Do you think they would get along with him, knowing he would be the final decider? Whoever becomes the next queen will have to work with him.”

“I think… I think I get where you are coming from. Most of us have grown up listening to how evil and vile humans are. Those biases aren’t going to go away very easily. And good luck pretending to be friendly with him, he’s not that easily fooled.”

Aluin agreed with Yorlen’s last statement. “No, no he is not. Felix has many faults, but judgment of character isn’t one. Not to mention, Zira can definitely tell.”

Their conversation died down for a few minutes while they finished their food. Meanwhile, the sun was starting to peek through the shuttered windows.

“I would still be a little worried, if you truly want Eri to become queen,” Chief Yorlen said, breaking the silence. “There are two potential suitors for the throne that I can think of. They will definitely be nominated.”

Aluin let out a sigh. He was aware of the two the Chief was referring to. “If one of them turns out to be a better option, then I wouldn’t object. But I don’t think that will happen.”

“You don’t?” The Chief asked, genuinely interested.

“No, because Eri has something that those two don’t.”

“What’s that?”

“A fire burning within her– Actually, make it two things.”

“What’s the second?”

Aluin leaned forward and grinned.

“Kyrith.”

----------------------------------------

Felix and Zira looked down upon the crater as they gained height over it. The realization that there was only one who could have been responsible for it, left them both relieved and concerned.

What could have made Ithea do…that? Felix asked, still shocked by its size.

I don’t know, but the fact she never said anything about it has me concerned… Perhaps we will have to speak with her about it? Zira didn’t sound too thrilled at the idea, especially because she was the one who offered it.

He patted the side of her neck sympathetically, and turned his focus to the sky ahead of them.

How long do you think it will take us? he asked, changing the subject.

A few hours, at this speed. We could make it there quicker, but… She didn’t need to finish her sentence, they both knew that they didn’t want to go any faster.

Yeah, but… Are you sure we are at least heading in the right direction? he asked, it wasn’t the first time either.

Yes, how many times do I have to tell you? I know where I am going, I can tell.

If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

Felix sent her a mental apology before adding, It’s still strange to me. I don’t know how you just know. You’ve never flown to the village from the manor.

He felt a rumble underneath him that was almost certainly a grumble.

I don’t know what to tell you, she said. You can see into my mind or we can combine them, then maybe you will understand. The only thing I can tell you, is that mana messes with it. I’m not sure where the Sanctuary is…

For a moment, he considered her offer but decided against it. He wanted to just enjoy the flight for what it was. Perhaps on our way back though, I would like to also practice some aerial maneuvers too.

Same, she said.

With that agreed upon, the two of them fell silent for a few minutes…

Hey Felix? Zira suddenly asked.

Yeah? He had his eyes closed, feeling the brisk wind buffeting him. It was strangely calming.

She took a moment before responding. A hint of embarrassment escaped from her side of the bond.

I’ve been thinking, I… I would like to explore the island more. Just the two of us, she added quickly.

He cracked an eye and stared over her neck to see her glancing back to him. Of course– Actually, with what you mentioned earlier about the Sanctuary, maybe we can start with that? When I took Eri and Kyrith, Kyrith barely fit in the halls leading from the portal. Both you and him have grown since then, I’m afraid you wont fit anymore…

She let out a frustrated snort before turning her head forward. I’m aware of my…size, you don’t need to comment on it. But yes, I think finding the location of the Sanctuary would be helpful.

Felix couldn’t help but let a smile show at her defensiveness. For the record, I don’t think there is anything wrong with your size–

Stop, she warned.

He listened and decided to get back to the actual topic. Anyway, I sense that’s not all you meant by exploring. Mind telling me your idea?

Zira took a moment to answer, letting her annoyance fade. This is nice, just the two of us. I feel… I finally feel complete, she admitted. It’s like I’ve found the exact thing I’ve been missing in my life.

The truth is, I don’t want this to end. I want to keep flying, I want to forget about everything else and just…fly.

Felix tightened his arms around her neck in an attempt to give her a hug. I know exactly how you feel… Unfortunately, you and I both know we can’t leave everything behind. We have people counting on us, who need us. And that isn’t considering the eggs…

There was another rumble, a groan he realized, as she answered.

I know…

***

The sight of Bernel Village gave Felix and Zira a bittersweet feeling. It meant that their flight was coming to an end. Who knew how long it would be before they could take to the skies again?

Though, I guess there’s nothing stopping us from going out for a quick flight in the morning is there? Oh, or possibly an evening one…or midday? Felix thought a little desperately.

Zira sent him an empathetic nudge over their bond. Wishful thinking, but doubtful. I suspect we will be trapped in meetings.

We? he asked, unsure what she meant by that. He would most likely be in meetings, but she didn’t necessarily have to be.

A memory of hers flashed into his mind. In it were several children surrounding her, asking her hundreds of questions…

Snorting, Felix reached down and patted her side. Ah, best of luck then.

Zira chuffed, the wind making it barely audible. I think it’s you who will need luck. From what I’ve seen, the elves can get rather stuffy.

Before he could respond, a faint ringing sounded out. Looking down, he could just make out specks running around the village.

Looks like we’ve been– He was cut off by Zira.

Aluin?!

What?! Where? I can’t tell from here! He shouted back in surprise. Peering down, he squinted in the vain hope of seeing the Sage.

She didn’t respond, instead she began to bank and angle downwards. Meanwhile, Felix tightened his grip around her neck.

They began their descent, circling over the village until they got low enough to skim the rooftops of the buildings below. Zira adjusted her direction and aimed for just outside the village.

They landed with a soft thump.

A few moments later, the Sage made his appearance. Alongside him was another familiar elf, Chief Yorlen.

“Aluin!” Felix called out in excitement and waved his arm over his head. “It’s been…what? A month? More? Anyways, it's good to see you again!”

Aluin smiled and returned the wave. “It’s good to see the two of you as well, and…flying.”

“This is our first flight– Well, our first real flight… Actually, there’s a lot I need to get you caught up on," he answered after sliding off of Zira.

“Oh? How was it?” Chief Yorlen interjected.

“I managed to keep him from falling off,” Zira answered with sarcasm before Felix could respond.

That got a round of chuckles from everyone. However, both Felix and Zira noticed a growing crowd just inside the village perimeter.

The onlookers held a mixture of curiosity and intrigue, but there were a few frowning as they stared back…

“I’m glad it went well, but…” Aluin trailed off and glanced behind. A few of the individuals came out to join them.

One of them stepped up and looked Felix up and down. “So, this is the human?” he asked with contempt.

Zira instantly let out a rumbling growl.

The elf immediately backed away, while Chief Yorlen whipped around and confronted them.

“Chief Calsen! This is my village, and I will not tolerate any disrespect to my guests. Both Felix and Zira are welcome here.”

The sudden ire from Yorlen made Felix flinch, despite being in his defense…

Aluin cleared his throat and spoke before anyone else could do anything. “Perhaps we should take our discussion elsewhere? I’m sure both of you are tired from your flight. A bit of rest while we discuss things properly, and in private,” the Sage added the last part in a whisper.

“O-oh… Right, yeah. We could do with a bit of rest,” Felix stammered out, barely catching the hint that Aluin left him.

“In that case, you are welcome to stay at my home. As an honored guest,” the Chief said, stressing the last part, as he turned back to face them.

Nodding, Felix forced a smile. What is going on?

I don’t know, but I get the feeling we’re about to find out. She answered.

“Thank you,” he said out loud. “We will take you up on your offer.” He bowed.

“Very well, if you will follow me…” Yorlen began to lead the way. The other elves immediately parted, watching with curiosity and whispers.

As they passed, Felix could feel hostility emanating from a couple. In particular was the one named Calsen, it appeared he had not been pacified. Zira gave him another warning growl.

Suddenly, the elf looked disinterested…

Doing his best to ignore them, Felix decided to focus on the village itself. Its inhabitants were slowly coming out of their buildings, peeking out from doors and shuttered windows.

A few waved to them.

As life returned to normal, their group was almost to Yorlen’s home.

“Ah, I almost forgot…” The Chief said. “Zira, I have a surprise for you.”

“Oh? What is it?” she asked with interest.

“You’ll see in just a moment, but I’ll just say… It’s a new addition to my home.”

She tossed Felix a confused look.

Don’t look at me, I have no idea either, Felix said defensively.

Zira just let out an agitated snort.

They continued on, until they finally reached the house. At first glance, nothing seemed all that different. However, it was only when he looked over next to it, that Felix realized what the Chief meant.

A barn, about two stories tall, stood proud next to the house. It was constructed out of unpainted wood, however it had a stained look that suggested that it had been treated. Just from the doors alone, it looked like two dragons of Zira’s size could comfortably fit.

“Is that…” Zira trailed off, seeing the barn.

“For you?” Yorlen finished for her. Rather than immediately answer, he guided them to its front and threw open the two large doors.

“Yes. Yes it is.”