Part 369: Panne A

Well, what did you think? How was your first ride on the back of a pegasus?

Interesting. And frightening. The ground was very far away.

But it was also... thrilling.

I'm glad you enjoyed it! We had to do something to thank you for the salve.

Still you talk of the salve... I told you, you owe me nothing.

All right. But if you do want to go on another ride, just let us know. My pegasus has grown ever so fond of you, and she loves to frolic in the sky!

Thank you. Both of you.

Not at all!

When you two fly, you move as if you were a single creature. How can you humans forge such strong bonds, yet still fight such terrible wars?

That's a good question. And I don't know the answer.

But I do know that we're fighting this war to build a better, peaceful future. If I didn't believe that, I'd drop my weapons and walk away right now.

I believe that you would. And in truth, the same hope drives me to fight. The hope for a world where taguel and human can at last live in harmony.

Oh, Panne...

Did I say something strange?

No, of course not! It's just that... To hear you say that make me happier than you could know. But haven't you noticed? Humans and taguel ARE living in peace together! Two of them are right here, giggling like schoolgirls on the back of a pegasus.

...... It seems we have made a friendship, just as you did with your pegasus. Perhaps I am at the point where I can name you my true friend.

I couldn't have put it better myself. We ARE true friends! And that means I'll always be here to watch your back.

And I yours!