Crisis (Melora POV)

The homecoming is bittersweet. There are cheers as the Horizon pulls into dock, though it fades quickly as the state of the crew is revealed. Though there’s still a victory to celebrate, the deaths of so many is sobering, not to mention the abduction of Nicholas. Once she finishes explaining what happened, Melora once more takes charge, gathering the girls, Captain Ben, Victor, and Bella for a meeting. Victor, in particular, is surprised by her assertiveness, but follows her lead regardless.

Once everyone is seated around the table, Melora nods. “So. We need to rescue Nicholas, and soon. There’s no telling what they’re going to do to him, and it’s only a matter of time before they **** him to share information about this town.”

Victor sighs. “As much as I hate to bring it up, are we sure he’s still alive?”

Alex nods. “I am bonded to him. I would know!”

Ferra speaks quietly. “As would I.”

Victor shrugs. “Very well. So what do we do?”

Melora shakes her head. “Sailing would take too long, and make us an obvious target.”

Ben nods. “Unfortunately, I agree. What’s the land route like?”

Bella speaks up. “Worse than by sea. You’d be captured by a checkpoint for sure. But…I have another option, although it’s very risky.”

Cassie practically bounces out of her chair. “Mom! I think we’re a little past worrying about risk! Spill it!”

Melora nods. “I agree. Whatever the risk, we’ll take it.”

Bella seems to think for a moment, and then nods. She reaches into a pocket, and pulls out a sparkling green gem, setting it on the table. Almost immediately, Victor stands up.

“A transport gem? You want to teleport into the heart of Order territory, with a single use item? That’s crazy!”

Before anyone else can respond, Ferra stands as well. “Done. I will kill anyone I have to. I must get Nicholas back. Even at the cost of my life.”

Captain Ben stares at the gem. “Can somebody explain? I know very little about magic.”

Melora nods. “A transport gem can teleport a small group to a location of their choosing. There’s limitations, like that it needs to be somewhere you’ve been before, and it’s a one way trip. The gem is destroyed in its use. We could send five people, and fortunately, I’ve been in the capital. That’s where they kept me.”

Ferra slams her hand down on the table, cracking the wood. “WHY ARE WE STILL TALKING ABOUT THIS?! Every second is a second wasted.”

Everyone stares for a moment and the angry golem girl, and then Alex stands. “I agree. This is our solution. Who’s going? I know Ferra and I, for sure!”

Melora smiles. “You can’t leave me behind this time. I’m your guide.”

Cassie bounces to her feet, her colors flashing yellow and pink. “Me too! I know I’m new, but I’m gonna save Nicholas too!”

Victor sighs. “Fine. I’ll come too. You’ll need all the help you can get, and I know my way around the palace.”

Melora nods. “Ben, Bella, you’re in charge while we’re gone. Let’s get to it, everyone gather what you need. We’ll leave in one hour.”