The next morning they departed, leaving on a small cruiser. Jason moved around the station early, saying his farewells to the crew. Most seemed surprised by his sudden departure and even more surprised to see the glittering, liquid dragon hatchling curled around his shoulders. Jason, however, didn't waste time. By 0600 hours, he was at the dock with Genhyl, Alexei, and, to his surprise, Miria.
"Are you coming?" He asked her. He knew she wasn't, but he was confused by her presence. He had already said goodbye in the nursury that morning. Miria stared into his eyes. He didn't flinch, reassured by the small squeeze Char gave his shoulders. Miria took a long time to speak.
"Be careful," she said quietly. To Charaustra alone, she sent, Take care of him...
I will... The hatchling returned, surprising her. The young dragon was learning quickly. Together, Charaustra and Jason headed up the ramp to meet Genhyl and Alexei. Miria raised her had in a farewell and wish for luck and speed. Genhyl and Alexei returned the gesture and then entered into their ship. Slowly, the bulk doors closed, sealing the travelers inside.
Slowly, Genhyl navigated the ship from the dock. The cruiser belonged to him. Alexei's ship, faster but virtually unarmed, had been left at the station in the care of security. The journey to L'mdana would take nearly a month, even at translight speeds. The ship was loaded with supplies. Also, there were weapons. Not enough to take on an entire army, but enough to protect themselves if the need arose. Genhyl seemed to think it would. He had double checked the ship's weaponry and shields meticulously, fine tuning their every aspect. Jason took a seat in the back of the cabin, nervously playing with his hands. Char watched the station recede with interest, taking in her new surroundings and the dark space around them with the wide eyes of a child. Together, the group silently wished the station farewell as the ship jumped into hyper speed.
Background from Absolute Background Textures Archive. Storyline and characters created by and copyright © Rachel "Indyana" Gratis, 2001-2004. Dragon from Veniam Mactare.