Forgotten-ENG

6.A turbulent start

The rising sun brought a morning gentleness that warmed Ori. It must be said that he had left very early to make sure he didn't have to say goodbye to anyone. He might have changed his mind if he saw Hana crying like the day before. When he got back last night, he had to face a terrifying Grandma, but he expected that. What he didn't expect was to see Hana burst into Grandma's room without knocking (which was a sacrilege at least as important as disappearing for a day without giving any news), and burst into tears while hugging Ori. He didn't know how long this scene lasted, but it felt good to him after that day. Then Grandma resumed, even louder, and Hana left, waiting outside.

After that, Ori and Hana went to the courtyard, and he told her what had happened. The chase, the explosion, the audience with the king... but he omitted the plan to find that strange man. Although he was glad to be back, Ori was determined to leave. And he didn't want to hurt Hana any more (nor let Grandma stop him). So he pretended to be tired and went to the boys' room. But excitement would keep him awake, he knew very well. So he packed his bag, wrote a letter to Grandma, and another one to Hana. What he had to tell her was more... personal. Ori couldn't close his eyes all night, and before the sun peeked over the horizon, he left.

The others had arranged to meet at the west gate at sunrise, and Ori arrived first. He didn't know this area well but had followed the carts of merchants, all grumpy about not being able to take the portals anymore. They were used to waiting and paying when entering the city, but to leave, they almost all used a portal. Since these were now off-limits, a nice mess was starting to form at the city exit. The outgoing carts were so numerous that they literally blocked the gate, and the merchants were starting to get impatient and call each other names. In the midst of this uproar, Ylva and Kuwa arrived, each carrying a large travel bag. Kuwa seemed rather fit, which didn't seem to be the case for Ylva. The Valkyrie had dull wings and halo compared to the day before, and especially, huge bags under her hazel eyes. Kuwa greeted Ori before approaching.

Hey kiddo! So, you managed to escape from your prison in the end? That's good news!Yes. It wasn't easy to leave them, but... I wasn't going to stay there all my life either.You're right, my sister, Ylva said, yawning. It's important to take your independence.

Seeing Ylva, the tall and strong Valkyrie, in this state brought a little smile to Ori's face.

Did you sleep well?Ylva came to stay in the same inn as me. Kuwa chuckled too. She wanted to teach a "too arrogant" man a lesson, he said, imitating a halo with his hands above his head.

Ori snickered, hands on his mouth.

She did indeed kick his butt, but she completely destroyed the bar. So our friend spent the night cleaning up. That's what you get for fighting anywhere.He called me "my little kitty" and asked me to serve him. I couldn't let that go. And then at least now he won't do it again. It was worth a few broken chairs.

Another voice was then heard behind them.

And well, I took you for the serious mom of the group... Ozan had also arrived, hidden behind the wings of the Valkyrie. Are you ready for three good days of walking?

Ori shrugged, swinging his bag in front of his chest.

I don't have many things honestly, but yes, totally ready.

Kuwa continued quickly

Well, we have everyone, let's go, hurry up!General... Ylva interrupted him. I know you don't get along with Nochi, but we made a commitment. I keep my word. He will come with us.And then, he will be useful to us if we find our man, added Ozan. If we need to fight, we'll have his big arms. He paused. And my mastery of the wind, obviously. I could handle it alone, but just in case.