Exile

Part 21

Italzi was reluctant to add too many people to the group; especially Atlas. His sarcastic personality wasn't the issue for her. It was his background. She knew he was an advisor's son, she knew he was still at least partially loyal to the Duke, and she knew he would do anything to protect Immi. Italzi was just afraid that he would turn them in to get Immi back safe at home.

"Alana," began Atlas, "Where are we going?"

"Wellingworth is just a small town a bit south of Crane. Vigor and I would sometimes go down to camp or just hang out."

"Ah, yes!" exclaimed Immi, "I've heard of Wellingworth. It's a rather quaint village is it not, Alana?"

"I believe it is, Dutchess."

Immi let out an excited giggle and ran ahead of the rest of the group. Italzi wasn't sure about Immi. She seemed nice, but horribly naive and oblivious. Italzi could see the danger that Atlas was talking about. Speaking of Atlas, Italzi could see he had a huge crush on her and she had a crush on him. They both obviously had no idea about the other.

The group came upon a crossroads. One way pointed to Crane and another pointed to another town east.

"Are we sure this is the best idea?" asked Atlas.

"This is the only way," said Alana. "Wellingworth has the elixir Italzi needs. The only other way is through the Crane Forest."

"Immi, here's a cloak for you to wear," said Cindie as she handed one to Immi and then one to Atlas.

"Thank you Cindie!" said Immi as she put the robe on.

"Anytime," smiled Cindie.

As the group got closer and closer to Crane more guards showed up. Italzi saw the worried expression on Atlas' face and they exchanged looks. Trouble.

Eventually, they got so close you could see the lights of the city not too far away. Here, Atlas kept his arm firmly around Immi's waist and looked around anxiously.

After a while of walking the group decided to stop about two hours past Crane. Though Atlas was reluctant, he decided they were probably far enough.

Italzi set up tents and Alana got out blankets for those who needed them. Immi, Cindie, and Alana got the three tents Italzi and Cindie packed, and Atlas and Italzi slept on Alana's blankets. Italzi went to bed and slept the deepest sleep she had had in a while.