The Return | Cricky [C]

Chapter XXXIII: Homecoming

Sebastain and Remington decided to remain in Autica awhile longer, both to conduct business and to monitor Manson's situation. Even though the plan was get Twiggy there and let him convince Manson to stop his pursuit of war, it still felt too easy. Maybe I'm just overthinking things. I have a tendency to do that.

Anyways, Emerson was kind enough to leave ahead of his brothers in order to bring us back to the mainland. The ship he captained was slightly smaller than the pirate king's, meaning my stomach was in even worse shape. I'm sure the stars and the ocean are absolutely beautiful here, but I couldn't enjoy it. All I could do is sleep and vomit through the misery. Ricky looked after me as before. This time, however, he was uncharacteristically quiet and only spoke when absolutely necessary. It had me worried what was going on in his head.

Once we reached the mainland, it was time to part ways with Johannes. He gave us a letter to carry home and deliver to Tim and John. Though he wished he could see them in person, he expressed how vital it was he returned to Avatar Country. The King and their people have been without a demon lord's protection for far too long. With Tim and John overseeing developments in the forest, his majesty's council was rather barren as well. I strangely enjoyed Johannes' company and hope to see him again in the future.

For now, my main goal was getting back home. I couldn't even think of anything else. From the coast, it was a week's journey, even in shadow form. Ricky wasn't himself the entire time. We stopped for rest and meals occasionally, and even when we woke refreshed, he still looked like he hadn't slept in a century. We both just need to get home. From start to finish, this journey took us a total of three and a half weeks. Hopefully the others were able to keep themselves together that long.

When we walked through the castle's front doors, I was convinced Ricky was going to collapse any second. I guided him to lean his weight on me, as to not look weak in front of the others. There's no doubt Kuza had spotted us on our way here and ran home to alert the others of our arrival. Sure enough, they were all eagerly waiting on the stairs, even Ryan. Albeit, he was the farthest back and trying to look like he didn't care.

"Welcome home, Master!" Yuu happily greeted him. We've been gone so long, I forgot how damn tiny he is.

"We made sure the castle is sparkling clean for you!" Ash beamed with a bright smile.

"I'll be the judge of that." I replied. Then I looked to Kuza, "Help him to his room. He needs rest." He didn't question me, nor did he worry over Ricky's condition. Kuza's been around here long enough to know a little sleep deprivation isn't going to keep a demon lord down. "Ryan, stay here. We need to talk." I said, "As for the rest of you, you may have the the night off. You've earned it. Just be quiet and don't disturb the master or our guests."

Ezra didn't waste any time and immediately swept Yuu up in his arms. The little moon elf thanked me and waved goodbye as they headed upstairs. They're so sweet together. Ash happily flew off to her room, and Vinny informed me he was going to the kitchen to find food. Everything was finally slowed down and back to normal. It's good to be home.

I walked up the grand staircase, meeting Ryan on the landing. "I'd appreciate it if you didn't take that tone up with me in the future." He stated, arms crossed as per usual.

"Sorry," I responded, "I didn't mean to be short with you. I'm just tired, and worried about the Master. I can't go into it, but, he had to face some old demons on this trip. So did I, in a way."

"Whatever you need to talk to me about, maybe we should wait until you've slept. You don't look well."

I scoffed a laugh, "I'm not used to compassion from you. It's your call. I can talk now or later."