Heading to the front lines

In the morning, even the late risers are up to see you off. After some very thorough goodbyes, you head off, with Ky Dura’s people as an escort. You don’t expect trouble in friendly territory, but if there were, several hundred battle ready orcs would make anyone think twice.

You make good time, despite being on foot. So much so that Clarissa jokingly complains to you about being the only short person there. “I have to take three steps for every one the orcs take!”

Uzume has a solution. “If you want, you could ride on my shoulders!”

Sadie, giggling, chimes in. “Oooh, piggyback rides! I want one too!”

Clarissa huffs. “You don’t need it! You can fly!”

The giggling djinn shrugs. “So? Rides are fun!”

Laughing, Uzume steps in. “Tell you what, you can go first, since you’re so tired, Clarissa.”

“I’m not tired! I’m just short!”

You chuckle, leaving them to their banter, and head over to check on Kali and Samara, who seem to be plotting something together. You hear them quietly chatting as you approach. “I hope you’re not planning anything strange, you two!”

They both jump, having been so engrossed in their conversation that they didn’t hear you coming. Kali grins, slightly embarrassed, but Samara just winks at you. “Wouldn’t you like to know! It’s a surprise.”

You laugh. “I’m wondering if I should keep you two separate. You’re dangerous together.”

The Lilim sisters giggle, and Kali shrugs. “It’s too late for you already. Our plans are set.”

You groan dramatically, and Samara laughs. “Don’t worry, you’ll enjoy every second, Josh.”

You shake your head. “That’s what I’m afraid of! All of you girls plan surprises that leave me unable to walk the next day.”

Kali smiles. “Well, maybe you can get Uzume to carry you instead of Clarissa!”

You chuckle. “Maybe you can carry me. You’re my guardian angel after all. Which makes Samara the demon on my shoulder, I suppose.”

All three of you laugh, as you continue walking. By your estimation, it should take only a few days to reach the headquarters of your army.