It had been two weeks now that Ferras was traveling with Jacklyn. It's the longest time he had ever spent traveling with someone who wasn't part of his unit. Although he didn't know where she was from and who she really was, the feeling of comfort that she provided was soothing. It was hard to admit it, but he did enjoy her company very much.
This was also what scared him. He wanted to go his separate way as soon as they reached Whisteria, knowing very well he couldn't afford any type of relationship with her of any kind. It could end horribly for him and her if things came out. In his line of work, contact with any civilians wasn't allowed and would mean immediate expulsion. Or even worse: direct execution due to the secrets he knew.
Checking the position of the sun and the blue moon, it should be noon right about now. He looked back at Jacklyn, making sure she was still there. He found himself checking on her wellbeing more often than he wanted to. She was so clueless and reminded him more of a lost puppy that he was somehow obliged to take care of. Stargate liked her, which added a big plus in his opinion of her.
Currently, they were traveling over the empty plains of The Dreaming Valley. The sun was shining brightly above them, cooled down by the steady winds that swept over the open grassy plateau. It wouldn't be long before they reached Whisteria from the West. Never had Ferras imagined he would dread seeing the horizon of the flowing grass where it hit the city gates of Whisteria.
Ferras felt himself slowly drift off into a trance, lulled into it by the steady beat of Stargate's hoofs, the warm weather and Jacklyn leaning on his back. Kimba was snuggled into Jacklyn's hair with his tail drooped over Ferras's shoulder.
"OH MY GOD, WHAT IS THAT??!" Jacklyn suddenly yelped. He felt her jerk back and hold on to his back. Stargate also stopped, threw up his head and neighed. Kimba scrambled up and squeaked in surprise.
What was happening?! Ferras spun around immediately with his hand ready on the hilt of his sword. First, he saw nothing. Until he looked up.
Above them was an enormous floating carpet. Or at least that's what it looked like at first glance. Ferras recognized the carpet as a giant Gambit. A species of floating flatworms that rode the never-ending winds of The Dreaming Valley in huge flocks. Ranging from one to almost seven meters long, they were some of the sole inhabitants of these plains. Although massive in size, they were paper thin and completely harmless.
It's huuuge! Kimba stared at it in amazement.
Jacklyn was still frozen in fear, clutching on to him for dear life. He couldn't help but laugh. "Hahaha, don't worry. They are harmless." She gave him a skeptical look. "Looks, these are called Gambits. All they do is float around all day, soaking up the sun as energy. Don't worry, they are actually really cute."
"Cute? Are you kidding me?" He saw her relax and look at the flock of majestic Gambits that were floating above them now with a new shine in her eyes. This was exactly that look. The fascination and curiosity that shone in her eyes.
I'll go up and say hi! Be right back
I'll go up and say hi! Be right back.
"No, wait!" Jacklyn reached for Kimba, but he was already gone, dashing after the Gambits floating ahead at a decent speed.
"Hold on! We're following Kimba!" Ferras exclaimed.
Beaming, Jacklyn quickly turned around and held on to him, knowing exactly what was coming next. Stargate neighed in delight that he could finally let loose again. With a snort, he charged off at a full gallop, the ground practically flying past below them. The wind roared in their ears, the speed exhilarating. Gently Ferras used his magic to hold both Jacklyn and himself on Stargate.
He knew he didn't have much time left. So he would enjoy these last few moments to the fullest. As soon as they'd reach the gates of Whisteria, he would have to leave her. It was obvious why and it really shouldn't be a big deal, but somehow he would miss having her and Kimba around.
They chased the Gambits a while longer over the rolling hills of the Dreaming Valley, but soon the winds shifted and the wild Gambits drifted off into another direction. Panting, Kimba came swooping down again and landed on Jacklyn's head with a smack.
Oh! That was so much fun! Can we go again? Please, please, please!
Jacklyn rolled her eyes. "No dummy. Stargate can't run forever ya know."
"Yes, and besides, we should be hitting our next camping spot soon." Ferras added.
Huh? But I didn't see anything from above? Only one single tree.
"That's it. Since we aren't traveling on the official road that is all we get."
Aw man! That's so lame. Kimba jumped from Jacklyn's shoulder onto Ferras' shoulder and from there on top of Stargate's head.
"It is what it is I guess." Jacklyn sighed. It is indeed. Ferras thought.