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We rode for what felt like forever. It was all green and blue skies and birds chirping and the scent of flowers, far and near. Interesting as it was to listen to everyone talk--yes, everyone, Zephyros included-- and chip in a few things about myself, I was tired and sore from riding. I yawned half a dozen times and caught myself nearly falling off the horse.

Speaking of Zephyros, he seemed different. He was his usual reserved, calm, unfazed and collected self but the coldness and hard look was gone from his eyes. As if he left them behind at Pendilor, the huge encampment where men were recruited and trained to join the army. It was also the border between Neradia and Elysium. Back to the point. Zephyros smiled easy and listened to them even if his eyes remained ahead. If you asked me, I'd say he even seemed...playful. I caught myself watching him most of the journey as he transformed from cold, prickly, stoic and distant to this pain in the neck. Morph and Bren's necks mostly since h