act14side

We're boarding a train to Karlan.

You don't need to come with yet.

Huh?

You mentioned your home was in an industrial area, in the mountains.

Yep.

For now, go back and visit.

Nothing's more important than family.

But...

You're back in the mountains. It's the perfect opportunity to head for home. The Doctor thinks so, too.

Did the Doctor say that?

...I understand. If you're okay with it, then I will.

So, the Doctor...

The Doctor has me with.

The train for the foot of Mt. Karlan is about to depart.

The train will depart soon, please board now.

I'm heading out.

Have a good break, Aurora.

With a steam whistle and a faint announcement, the train departing for Karlan sets slowly into motion.

Doctor, let me tell you about the names of all these peaks.

Look. The one there with the flat-ish slope is Jungfrau. The third Saintess named that one.

The really steep one there, that's Matterhorn. His name actually came straight from that one.

Ensia continues on, with something to say about all the scenery that passes by, and all that Kjerag is.

Aside, Courier wears his eternal smile, listening to every word quietly and respectfully. But from time to time, the faraway look in his eyes carries a hint of something unclear.

Sharp reclines against the seat browsing net pages. He'll find that the contents of Kjerag's internet far exceed his expectations.

Alternately, you listen to Ensia, and cast your gaze out of the window.

Outside, remnants of ice drift in a lake reflecting the blue sky. Some locals are together at its shallows, some drawing water, some doing their laundry, some laughing.

The purest white snowpeaks stand imposingly tall, any attempt to lift your head and see their end blocked by the sunlight.

Halfway up, where the mountains level somewhat, a young shepherd herds flocks of stockbeasts home. No surprise crosses him as he sees the people aboard the train; instead, he lifts his whip, waving at you in greeting.

Not far away is the village where he lives, smoke spiraling from chimneys, peaceful and prosperous.

The sight of it all wipes the cares from your mind.

Perhaps, this journey will be just fine.