Chapter Eighteen:
Echoes of Graupia

Time seemed to pass slowly through the giant fleet of Istean. Richard was the only member of the Company able to find solace from the long hours. He seemed to be farther away than Afrin, closed up in the darkest depths of his mind. When he was with the rest of them, he spoke little, and had a grim look on his face. The rest of his friends were confused and worried by his sudden change in mood, and went to Elder Afrin for help.

"Just let him think," he said. "There is much secrecy in him, but it will be revealed soon, I think."

"But he's been like this for a week!" argued Mekae. "We haven't gotten a word out of him."

"Yeah," agreed Blair. "You're the only one he'll talk to, so we thought you would know what's wrong with him."

"Ask me no more!" sighed Elder Afrin. "There is much that escapes even my view."

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"We're three days out," said Alinqua.

"Go in without warning, even to our own," said Elephande.

"I agree," replied Altoda. "We should go in separately."

"We can go in unseen," said Zambiandë, "and Elder Higenti will give us a form in battle."

"Yes," agreed Erandel. "Frontain's monarchs will return home."

"We will leave now," said Elephande. "No ship is needed for us."

They left, leaving only Istean on the bridge. Richard walked in a few minutes later, and addressed them.

"The Company shall leave now," he said. "Give us a ship that can get past the blockade."

"I have one in mind," replied Delagog. "Follow me."

He led Richard to a shuttle hidden in his personal bay.

"This was my grandfather Adaline's, and my father's. It is my gift to you, for your help in returning Istean to glory."

"I'm sorry, but your ships will not suit the Company well. The rooms are much too large."

"I figured that. So I made some adjustments."

"A fine gift, my friend. May Isteanoc guide you!" cried Richard, echoing the farewell of Istean.

Delagog smiled, and replied, "And may he light your path. Isteanoc was a warrior. He will guide his sons, my friend." With that, he left.

An announcement was made, and the Company arrived in twos and threes. Chris was the last to arrive.

"Let's go," he said.

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Alinqua laughed as Delagog returned to the bridge. "Altoda and I were talking, and I can't wait to see Suliantig's face when we arrive."

"It will be one of awe," replied Altoda. "Remember, he was one of us, even though he opposed us at Graupia."

Delagog added, "Indeed, he himself is descended from Isteanoc, I believe, and an elder line to even ours."

"But not the eldest, though he joined himself to it. Our contempories Alline and Allysuntis precede all of us."

"Listen to you two," laughed Alinqua. "I come from a far lesser line, my friends."

Delagog was still laughing. "Your friendship is still valued, nonetheless. Anyway, who woulda thought this would happen? It's gonna be us down there, at home. We brought Istean down, and it looks like we will return them to glory!"