CIlas heard Iona get up and leave the room, and he sat up on the bed spinning around so that he was sitting at the table. He rested his elbows upon it and put his head in his hands, his fingers brushing through is blonde hair. He let out a heavy sigh and got to his feet following Iona out through the door after he took a deep breath. You have realized it since the both of you were trapped in Veda. You would not have begged her to not fear you if you didn’t, you would not have feared losing her to death if you didn’t. Yet someone who seeks knowledge can’t even open his mouth to her. He was lost in his own head as he made his way up to the dock as well.

The smell of the salt in the air hit Cilas hard, they were indeed over the ocean now that separated the two landmasses. Other people were also coming from the depth of the ship to look at the views as well. Cilas just stood at the base of the stairs as others were walking around him and just watched Iona before him. The smle he managed to glimpse as she looked out to the views caused him to smile just as much. He was glad that he had guessed correctly that the view would cause her happiness, as heights did not always agree with everyone. Go to her you idiot it was as if his own subconscious was mad at him for just standing there.

Rolling his eyes at himself, he moved finally from his spot at the top of the stairs. He was sure the other guests were probably glad that he wasn’t blocking half of the way anyways. The dragon leaned on the railing next to Iona and looked out at the view of the ocean. ”it is magnificent isn’t it. Breathtaking even no matter how many times I have seen it. We are so small compared to the size of this star.” He said softly, and looked over at Iona. She had a hand on her stomach and her smile wasn’t as large as it was before. Was she feeling ill from the change in altitude? Or was there something else that was bothering her? Perhaps it was another vision from the other Iona that she saw once again.

”Don’t worry. If you should fall I will catch you. No matter the danger I shall be there.” He said turning away to face the scenery again. He did not know what came over him to say those words, in his mind he thought it would fit the moment. Cilas then realized something. What would happen when they finally reached Iria? Would they stay together or split up and go their own ways from there. He agreed to let her come to Iria with him but they did not say what would happen when they got there. She was a constant companion to him for all these days, would it all crumple just because of that? It was a melancholy thought. He didn’t want the adventure to end.

As Cilas stood beside her, Iona nodded in agreement with his words. The more she saw, the more she realized just how large the world was. What lay beyond the horizon that was too far to see? If one should travel across the sea, where would it take them? What other lands were to be seen and what other peoples were there to meet? She supposed that is why there is a saying “you learn something new everyday”. As long as one keeps moving, they will be taken past what they know. They will see new things, gain new experiences—they learn. With that in mind, she looked over at Cilas. He was watching the ocean, seemingly unaware of her longing gaze. Where has he been? What has he seen? His wonderful mind must be so full of knowledge, and yet, he continues to learn. It amazed her how that works. No matter how one ages, no matter how wise they become, they still learn. It must be because the world itself is changing. People learn, they build on it, and everything changes, thus making new things to learn. How fascinating!

Before she realized it, her smile had slowly begun growing once more. She forced her eyes away from him with a slight warmth in her chest. Iona was wondering about him again, desiring to get closer in some way. But, she didn’t know how. When the wind died down, she released her hair and her hands started fidgeting with her sleeve. She could ask him about his travels, but for once, that was not what she desired within that moment. The setting was too calming, the silence between them a comfortable one. She did not want to ruin the feeling with more questions and more lessons. There was time for that later. Now, she wanted them to enjoy themselves, enjoy each other’s presence. Her eyes blinked over to his hands on the railing, tearing away only to look back moments later. Why was she longing to reach out and take his hand? She remembered his warmth when they locked their arms. Would holding his hand feel the same?

She forced herself to lock her hands together behind her back to resist the growing urge. Touching him without reason might make him uncomfortable, so she would not make any attempt. She didn’t wish to make herself a fool, either. Not again. Her eyes went back to the ocean, looking it over while listening to the birds and the wind. It was then that she noticed how difficult it was to breath. Each time she drew in a breath, it was as if she was getting less air. It was colder as well. It seemed the temperature had dropped. She shivered a little, then rubbed her rubbed her arms to spark a little warmth.

Then, Cilas spoke unexpectedly, breaking the silence. Slowly, she turned her face to look at him. Iona did not understand why, but those simple words filled her with such joy and warmth. Her eyes twinkled with a beautiful emotion she did not know the name of, her face warming with a loving smile. It was such a simple thing to promise, perhaps in the eyes of others, perhaps even to Cilas. But not to her. She hoped it meant that he would stay by her side a bit longer, even just to protect her. But then she realized what a selfish wish that was. Without a word, she stepped closer with surprising boldness, and she gently laid her hand on his arm. She was uncertain with what to say, believing a “thank you” did not show the depth of gratitude she felt. Unable to make herself look into his eyes, she simply watched for any flinch that might indicate he wasn’t comfortable with the touch, while desperately trying to find the right words.

There was a moment of silence again between the two of them after he had suddenly made the promise that he would be there no matter the danger. His mind still fought with him as to why he said the words out of the blue, but his heartfelt content. He had the smallest smile on his face as he pushed away from the thoughts of them separating in Iria. Suddenly he felt her move closer to him and she placed her hand upon his arm. He turned his head to look and could see that she was not making eye contact with him. Was she too embarrassed to say anything? She was watching him, but not looking all the same.

A hand was placed on top of her own, his thumb slowly brushing over her fingers. Surprisingly it was cold. Cilas came to the realization that she had not bought a cloak to keep her warm in such higher altitudes. He let out a small laugh, breaking the bonding moment of silence that was shared between the two. He stood up straight again and undid the brooch that kept his own cloak secured to him. He reached around her shoulders and draped his large cloak around her to keep her warm from the wind. ”Perhaps when we get to Iria, we should get you a cloak for travels such as these. Use mine, for now, I am used to the thin air up here.” He said and rubbed her shoulder before letting his fingers trace it before moving to learn upon the railing again.

He glanced down quickly at the hand he used to cover Iona’s and still could feel her own beneath his. Her soft and smooth skin, it caused his cheeks to blush a little before he shook the thought from his head. It was then when he felt a small drop of rain hit the back of his head. He thought nothing of it at first, until he felt a few more drops. He looked up and saw that it was clear ahead of them. He turned around and saw the dark clouds that were encroaching upon the airship. A storm, and over the ocean it could have rolled in in a matter of seconds. ”Let us return to our room,” He warned Iona as the rain started to pick up some more.

They managed to get ahead of the crowd of people that were trying to get beneath the hull again and made it to their room. The rain was now crashing hard upon the wood boards of the ship. Crash the sound of thunder and the flash of lightning came through the small porthole window. ”Just in time. Thankfully airships are able to fly through these storms with ease. But it might get a little rough.” He told Iona sitting down upon the bed he had claimed earlier. He had to admit he was kind of upset at the storm, for it seemed there was a moment between the two of them. It did though cause the two of them to be in the small room together.

The ship rocked against the strong winds of the storm, and Cilas’ stomach sank with it. While he was flying in his dragon form he had control, but the rocking of a storm still was not the best for the dragon while he was on a ship.

Iona was relieved that Cilas made no attempt to move away from her touch. However, she was not expecting him to place his hand upon hers. Her eyes instantly lifted to meet his. Her breath caught in her throat. His hand was so warm, the sensation of him caressing her making her knees grow so weak so almost wobbled. He was strong, she could feel it. Those hands were capable of breaking and harming, but they were so gentle with her. The thought conjured the sudden realization of how small and fragile she was compared to Cilas. The silence no longer felt uncomfortable. She was no longer thinking about what to say or do—she was focused on his tender touch and wonderful warmth, and those silver eyes that entranced her.

Then, the moment was cut short by his brief laugh. Her face warmed as she offered him a soft smile. Her hand moved away from him and formed a loose fist over her fluttering heart. Cilas removed his cloak, somehow knowing how cold she’d become, and he wrapped it around her. His scent had clung to the fabric, washing over her with the warmth he had built in it. But his hand didn’t leave her shoulder quickly, instead, he rubbed her gently. She was frozen beneath his touch, worrisome that any movement would turn him away. Perhaps he was only trying to help warm her with the movement, but even so, she was not ready for it to end. Iona wanted to step closer, but she resisted the urge. He removed his hand from her shoulder and leaned against the railing. “Thank you,” she said in response to his offer, pulling the cloak further closed. She seemed so much colder now, despite the warmth the large cloth offered her. It was Cilas’ warmth she longed for, she realized. But, she would say nothing. She was fortunate to get a light touch from his hand, and it was wrong of her to ask for something in the first place. Only take what is given, never ask for anything more. It is a gift to have what you do, a blessing. After all he had done for her, Cilas was the only one with the right to ask for something.

She looked back down at the ocean in silence. Iona was oblivious to the dark cloud rolling in, for she was lost in thought, not truly seeing what she was looking at. If you should want for anything, you shall want for others. Those words echoed in her head, though she knew not where they originated from. Wanting for herself was selfish. And so, the only thing she would allow herself to want is for Cilas to get what he desires the most, to be happy. But, what did he want the most? She glanced at him, catching a slight redness to his cheeks. However, before a word could be spoken, something small, cold, and wet dropped onto her head. It was then that she noticed the threatening clouds. Cilas said it was time for them to return to their cabin, and she followed obediently.

Once they were safe inside their room, the first thing Iona did was sit on her bed while Cilas sat on his. Again, she took up the pillow and clutched it to her chest as she pulled up her knees, back pressed against the wall. Her eyes scanned the room as if it was her first time seeing it, then they landed on Cilas as he spoke. The rain was already crashing down, filling the room with its loud pitter-pattering. Thunder rolled and shook the ship with a boom that made Iona jump, and a flash of light flickered out of the small window, lasting no longer than a heartbeat. Iona had experienced many storm as a Wisp beneath Moonlake, but this was her first one when she was not alone. With Cilas close by, the soft bed beneath her, and the warm cloak that carried Cilas’ scent, there was more good to outweigh the frightening storm. Iona felt calm, almost relaxed as she listened to the lullaby of nature—a powerful and mighty song made by storm. She allowed her eyes to close for a moment, only to rest them. “I am not afraid,” she quietly muttered half to herself, half to Cilas. “This time I am not alone. Your presence comforts me.” Her voice trailed away as she began drifting into slumber, the exhaustion the long journey had caused her frail body finally catching up to her. Her limbs felt like stones, eyelids too heavy to keep open, and mind too weary to think.

Then, once she finally drifted off, she was given yet another image. This one, however, was far different from the rest. It lasted only a split second; an image of Cilas and her, neither wearing even a single piece of clothing. Their bodies were pressed together, their lips locked in a moment of passion. Iona’s eyes shot open with a small gasp. Her body was warm in response to the vision, her heart hammering in her ears. And as the realization of what they were doing in the vision sank in, her face heated until it was all she could feel. She glanced down at herself, as if some irrational fear made her wonder if she was still covered or not. She was—of course she was. One look at Cilas confirmed it, as he was fully clothed as well and never moved from his bed. But she couldn’t meet his eyes. She turned her face downcast and buried it in the pillow, her grip on it tightening. Had it been another vision? She doubted it, especially as one of Iona’s memories. Her hair was black, in the vision it was silver as it was now. And, Cilas didn’t know Iona before he found the Wisp. A dream perhaps? She wouldn’t even consider that it might come to be in the future. Cilas had made it clear how important it was to keep herself covered and let no one touch her nor see her. That included him, yes? It had to be a dream. Guilt and shame weighed on her like stones. How could she imagine something like that? What could have conjured the idea?

Ever so slowly, she moved her face just enough to reveal her eyes above the pillow. She looked towards Cilas again, and the vision returned. His warmth, his breath on her skin, her hands in his hair, their lips pressed together—she remembered every detail, her senses acting as if it had truly happened. And the worst part was…she enjoyed it. Attempting to shake it all from her head, she forced herself to look at the little window, keeping most of her face hidden to hide the redness.

Cilas eyes looked up when Iona started to speak. It was soft words, ones he could barely pick up himself as his own thoughts were on other things. He couldn’t help but smile a little. She found her own strength in this world, to not be afraid, even if it was when he was around her. Her words though trailed off near the end of her statement and the blue eyes that were once open closed and the pillow that she was grasping onto fell as her arms gave away to sleep. Cilas got from his bed and picked the pillow back up and put it back in her arms folding them up to grasp on it.

”Good night Iona, hopefully, you dream well in this small space. Better than sleeping on the ground isn’t it,” He spoke softly so that way he wouldn’t wake her up from her slumber.

Cilas moved swiftly over to his bed and laid down upon it again. He's laying down did not help him feeling the sway of the ship as it moved through the storm. He needed to get some sleep as well, but his head and heart were swirling with thoughts. Thoughts of what would happen once they landed on the mainland, and thoughts of Iona as well. He never would have thought that their journey together like this would cause him to grow so attached to her as he has. He covered his eyes with his hand. He wished he could just tell her what his heartfelt, but the fear was just holding him back to much.

”So much for being the terrifying dragon that people see. When I am terrified more than ever of this…a beast brought to his knees cause of one emotion,” he spoke out to himself. He was grateful that Iona was asleep or else she may have questioned him to actually saying everything.

She was not lost in slumber for very long though, as he heard a gasp from her lips and he turned his head quickly hoping that something didn’t happen. She seemed to be grasping the pillow in her arms tighter her head buried in it. A quizzical look appeared on the dragon’s face, did something frighten her? Was it the storm once more, even after she said she wasn’t afraid? He swung his legs underneath the table again and sat up. It was not like he was going to be able to sleep himself. Her eyes appeared from the edge of the pillow and looked at Cilas for a brief moment before they looked away at the window.

What did she see? Was it a vision, or something else?

He wanted to ask her but didn’t want to pry too much into her visions. She had just recently told him about them back in Sularia and didn’t want her to think anything negative about them. ”it seems like sleep probably will not be coming to the both of us on this ride after all. Even after we had such comfortable beds to sleep on.” He spoke trying to change the subject for both of them. He looked out the window they had as well. ”Doesn’t seem like the storm will be letting up either. We may be stuck in it until we reach Iria. Speaking of, what will you do when you reach the mainland?”

He didn’t want to be reminded that they may go their separate ways when they landed, but he was curious about what she wanted to do.

Iona heard Cilas shuffling on his bed, but she couldn’t bring herself to look his way. She kept her eyes locked on the window, watching the black sky light up with flashes of lightning followed by deep rumbles. Iona knew her face was still burning; if Cilas saw and asked, she would be forced to tell him what she’d seen. She much preferred to avoid that out of fear of what Cilas might think. She was not a pervert; that vision was not intentional, and it was her only one. But how would Cilas know that? She never told him about her inability to lie. However, despite not looking at him, she was listening intently. He asked her a question she wasn’t sure how to answer, but at least it gave her something else to think about. She tried her hardest to focus on his question and push away the images in her head. Gradually, her face and body cooled, although her heart still pounded.

She glanced at Cilas, but dropped her gaze to her pillow too quickly. What will she do when they reach their destination? Cilas had been the one to ask her to come; she assumed he had something in mind. But…what if he didn’t? What if…what if he leaves and they part ways? Suddenly, her chest aches terribly, and she clutched the pillow tighter. She didn’t want him to leave, not after all he’d done for her, after how much she came to care for him. How would she know how to find him so she could repay the debt? But, again, she had to remind herself to change her thinking. What she wanted was not important; it didn’t matter. What mattered was Cilas and what he wanted. If he didn’t need her, or want her, then she will go her own way. Although she didn’t know where to go, or what to do. All she really wanted was to stay with Cilas…

“I don’t know,” she admitted quietly, her eyes showing the sorrow she was feeling. She had never been left alone in the human world, and she feared without Cilas, she wouldn’t be able to fit in. But she needed to learn how to be alone. She supposed he couldn’t stay with her forever, otherwise she would remain a burden and only heighten her debt. Slowly, she forced her eyes back up to meet his. The images returned, flustering her once again. But the subject at hand made it easier to deal with by keeping her mind elsewhere. Briefly, she glanced over him before meeting his gaze again, as if this would be the last time she ever sees him. She wanted to savor the moment, the sight of him as he was.

Taking in a deep, slightly shaky breath, she stretched out her legs and stood. The cloak was pulled off from her shoulders; she didn’t need it now that she was in their warm room. Besides, Cilas was going to need it if they part ways. Reluctantly, she approached him, face a light shade of pink. But her eyes were struggling to meet his. And as she handed him the cloak, her lips formed a soft, sad smile. “You were preparing me to live on my own…without you. I…” she paused, trying to swallow the lump in her throat but failing. “Whatever happens, I only hope you will find happiness.” Her smile brightened, showing that was all she truly cared about. It mattered not whether he left her for stayed. As long as he is happy.

The answer that he received from Iona was the one that he felt himself, he did not know what to do as well. It was more figuratively for the dragon as he had plenty to do once he reached the city, especially with his long absence from the magic academy. Now though they both sat there in silence as the patterning of the rain fall hit the boards of the ships and the thunder roared outside. How long had it been since they left port in Sularia? Cilas did not know as he hadn’t been focused on the time.

He feared saying what he felt more than anything, maybe because he never had felt this for another individual. Sure he had plenty of relationships before but they were mainly all physical enjoying each other’s body. For this woman before him though, his heart had opened and all that been through caused him to fall in love.

His thoughts were broken though as she moved and got up from her curled up spot on the bed. She had taken off the cloaked he had draped over her shoulders and thanked him preparing her to live on her own. He caught the break in her words and looked away from her gaze. He did not want to see the sorrow in her eyes that lined her words. He looked upon her again and stood up placing his hands upon her own and slid them down taking the cloak. ”It was my pleasure to teach you all that I know.” he said softly his own sadness creeping through as the outcome he did not want seemed to be what was happening.

They were fools…fools to not listen to the heart.

He looked at the cloak for a moment and placed it gently upon the table. Before she could turn and return to her bed though, he wrapped his arms around her and held her close to his chest in a tender hug. He closed his eyes. He just stood there and kept the hug going in the silence. He had to fight back his own sadness so much so that way the both of them could move forward into the future. He pulled away and looked down into her eyes. ”No matter what happens, no matter the path we chose to take in our lives. I was glad to be able to give you a life worth living. Always remember the promise I made you on the deck. No matter what happens I’ll be there. Just call my name and I’ll come running.”

It was all that he could say to her. His heart kept screaming at him to tell her that he loved her, but his own personal fear kept the words from escaping his throat. He then went to embrace her one more time before letting go. ”Let us try to get some sleep, we maybe close to Iria and I am sure you are as tired as I am, or so he guessed and he made his way back to his bed. He felt sad, sadder than he had ever felt before in his life.