Ad Astra - The Alagore War

AA V2 Assiaya, Chapter 19

"Dear Father, I miss you very much. I do not know why I am writing this, but maybe it is in the hopes that one day we will meet again and you can read about my adventures. I have wanted to write since the Bridge opened; everything has been busy and exciting.

I have struggled to describe my feelings about what I have experienced over these long and short months. It was only five months ago that we started this plot to bring the Altaerrie here, but it feels like a lifetime ago. I thought crossing the mountains was a grueling journey, but even that feels like forever ago.

But we did it. We found Indolass and the Bridge. We did it. We opened it and went to Altaerrie. But then, you were robbed from me. I miss you so much. It is not fair. Your life's work, your dreams of meeting the people across the Bridge, and you were robbed of it. I still remember our talks next to the fire on the way to Indolass, and I'm wondering what it might be like on Altaerrie.

According to the Altaerrie calendar, it has been two weeks since we wrote this note and first went to their world. So much has happened since then, and already seen so much, and yet, so little. The humans we encountered are called the Americans. But they are not the on only human nation. There are the British, which the Americans rebelled against. Then there are the Japanese who make all of their technology and something called anime. From what i understand, their version of motion pictures with thaum magical ink. Then there are Canadians that provide syrup...?

Do not ask about the last one. I am starting to learn not to trust everything they say. I will never understand human humor.

I do want to say, though, I have become close friends with the group called Comanche. Humor aside, I have never felt so accepted within a group before. We have fought many battles and shared stories. The fact that I am a half-elf means nothing to them, to which I believe they still do not know or care.

At the academy, I had few friends. I was never accepted by elf society and an outcast within the lats. Few of my professors or other classmates ever saw much from me. I saw myself only working in administration or scroller. Going on adventures and seeing the world was only a dream—a perfect dream, but only a dream.

I still cannot believe it. High-ranking military commanders know my name. My leader, Ryder, relies on my magic and knowledge. Even the Templar, Natilite, remembers me and considers me a friend. And then I was terrified when Ryder was taken. I started to believe that I was going to lose another friend after everything he had done to include me in his unit. I was approached by a Colonel who said they wanted a meeting to learn more about the Bridge.

What shocked me was seeing Comanche come together after their leader was taken. They were so determined to find him, and in the end, we discovered that Ryder did not just escape but brought a friend, a little slave girl. I do not know many who would adventure through the wild with a slave girl.

I know you are not here, but if you could see what I see, you would be happy. The Altaerrie are very different from what we expect, and I do not know their full intentions. However, they seem to understand the threat the Unity poses and seem to want to help. Your gamble and your sacrifices were worth it.

Now, we are back at Salva. I know I failed to save you, but we saved about half of the prisoners. I hope you can forgive me. I promise I will keep looking. I love you, Father, and I hope Tekali watches over you. For the first time, there is hope in the world. I can feel it. Mother has not abandoned us. I hope to see you again soon. - Fraeya Holiadon journal entry