Chapter 425: A Sea of Stars
The beautiful, cold winter I’d lived in for almost a month was gone, replaced by the warm autumn sun. The grass was long and green, soft beneath my boots, and birds chirped in the sky. The soldiers had yet to notice me, relaxing at ease around the camp, talking in light voices, or just enjoying the sun.
"Fable," I said softly, resting a hand on his head. "Where did it go?"
I could feel the spirit’s presence through our soul bond, and yet...where was the ice and snow that traveled in its wake? Not that I particularly wanted it to, but it should have appeared to greet me by now. Fable tilted his head at my question, then nodded toward the massive gate dominating the western sky.
"He’s inside? Still?" I asked slowly, sifting through the fragmented impressions I received through our soul bond. It wasn’t a precise form of communication, but after a few moments of concentration and a flurry of Fable’s memories, the general idea became clear.
I nodded, my tail flicking with a mix of curiosity and determination. "Interesting. Let’s take care of that before anyone notices me. I have a feeling things might get complicated if we wait much longer."
As I moved to walk toward the gate, Fable nudged me with his shoulder, his gaze imploring. I shook my head, a blush warming my cheeks. "I’d, um, rather walk. It’s been a while since I could, well, do that."
He flicked his ears in acknowledgment but accepted my preference, padding alongside me. My tent was situated near the center of the camp, but thankfully, most of the soldiers were occupied elsewhere. I could see nearly a thousand of them on the fields to the north, engaged in some sort of training exercise. The few who noticed us passing by offered friendly nods, some not even recognizing me until after we had passed.
"Good morning, my Lady."
I jumped, instinctively grabbing a handful of Fable’s fur as Gith materialized beside me. The ranger wore his mottled green cloak and had his bow slung over his shoulder, appearing ready to fight or travel at a moment’s notice.