Control

Aldric decided that it was enough terror for one day after their final trip to the last high lord's estate. Although they had done no real harm, aside from landing in various high lords' homes, causing enough commotion to leave several faeries injured, the chaos they left behind made Islinda feel guilty. 

The faces of the wounded flashed in her mind, stirring guilt in her chest as Straggler, their monstrous Ka'er, flew them away.  She leaned against Aldric's chest, nestled in his arms as the wind whipped through her hair. Yet, despite her remorse, she couldn't help but feel a strange sort of thrill. After last night's dream, this experience made her feel alive. 

But as Straggler began to descend into a barren land, any lingering guilt Islinda felt quickly vanished, replaced by confusion. 

Straggler landed on the blackened, scorched earth, the massive creature grunting in satisfaction before letting them down.