Chapter Sixteen

"Good morning... have you guys been up long?" She said, grabbing muffins and bread from her bag and handed them breakfast.

They nodded, eating quickly.

"Maybe twenty minutes."

"Oh, good. I think we should head out soon."

"We're not that far, a day's ride, maybe more."

"Excellent, maybe we can get there by nightfall." Ralvania commented.

"With some luck, yes."

Once the other two were finished eating, she stared at them for a long moment.

"Are you two ready to go? I have a sinking feeling about those mountains over there."

"I'm ready when you are." Soranto replied.

"Let's go."

She climbed onto the dragon along with the gremlin, after a few seconds the dragon headed for the skies, until they were flying at cloud level.

The empress leaned back, letting out a deep sigh of relief. The ride there was almost over. She hoped to get things taken care of in a day or two. She was more than willing to help, but missed her sanctuary, too. Looking down, they passed over the white mountains. Good, she thought, sitting back up. She was proud of the dragon, flying his hardest to get to the journey's end. She didn't blame him one bit.

Three hours swept by them as the dragon was still going strong, she peered down to see a giant river surrounded by different birds, there were white ravens and crows, as well as sparrows, phoenix, even a rare glitter chameleon dove. It was quite majestic, like something she'd read in an adventure book as a child. The majestic sea foam green and dark blue water shimmered in the light. This is what she loved about the long travels. Interesting and unusual landscapes, as well as meeting natives of different villages and cities. Sitting up, waiting and hoping they get there sooner than expected. Praying to the goddess of vitality that this potion would work.

By mid-day, Soranto was still flying steadily on, as always she worried for him. He should rest, even a short break, otherwise the stubborn beast would keep going until he passes out. She waited until mid-afternoon.

"You should rest, you've flown almost a whole day."

"I'll land soon enough, made it this far, I can go further."

"I know you can, I just don't want you to hurt yourself."

"I'll land when I decide."

She said nothing, stroking his right ear. He flew on for another thirty minutes, passing over a few small towns and a huge forest. He saw a large dark green hill, perfect for a little rest.