The C.I.A. in the Works of John Flanagan

3

The Heron

The next morning, Cora woke up, sitting leaned against the railing, her hand still in Isack's.

Something was different though, but she couldn't place it.

Then it dawned on her. Isack was no longer lying across the deck; he was sitting beside her, asleep. It was then she realized that he had been the pillow she had when she woke up.

Edvin walked by and saw her confusion.

"He woke up in the middle of the night and didn't want to bother you." He informed her.

"Ok," she said softly, gently freeing her hand from Isack's and stood up to walk around some and possibly talk to the crew.

She made her way to the helm and tapped Hal lightly on the shoulder.

"Thank you for taking care of us. Sorry if we're a burden.."

"Neither of you are a burden, we just need to get you both trained with some weapons and you'll be able to hold your own in any battle we come across." Hal, the skirl replied.

"What kind of weapons?"

"I was thinking that your friend Isack would do good with an axe, and you can use my crossbow and maybe a sword or a few daggers."

"You plan on giving this one sharp knives?" Came the teasing voice of Isack from right behind Cora, causing her to jump.

"Hey! I can be trusted more than you!" She exclaimed defensively.

She then walked away, seemingly distracted.

"Is she always like this?" Hal asked Isack.

"No, she's worried about our friend Austin. They're practically siblings. Were you serious about me using an axe?"

"Of course. If you're going to be on this ship you have to be able to defend yourself."

"Ok, I'm going to check on her."

"I think she's fine. She seems to be laughing rather hard at Jesper's latest antics."

Araluen

"WILL YOU TWO STOP GOOFING OFF AND GET THE CHORES DONE!" Gilan shouted at his two apprentices who just started laughing.

"If you two don't shape up really quickly, I'll be escorting you to the dungeons."

"Yes sir," they chorused.
You two might be ready for weapons tomorrow. Gilan thought.

He turned around and saw them smacking each other.
Nevermind...