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Moro’a takes off and the Rosehouse grows smaller and smaller as he soars above, Francel and Laniaitte soon disappearing from view as they become a part of the landscape altogether. The air here is fresh and sharp, tinged with mint and laurel – air that Moro’a gets to take in for the next seven days. Chantal gains altitude with ease, propelled by the abundant currents of wind aether, and together they fly northwest above the clouds.
As the isle grows closer Moro’a spots the Redbills’ standard, and the pair of airships docked nearby. A figure waves at him from one of them, and Moro’a directs Chantal to circle downwards. The black chocobo lands gently amongst the grass.
Moro’a eagerly leaps off his saddle, looking towards the man who rises from his seat to greet him. “Not a moment too soon!” Leofard calls out, and Moro’a smiles. The captain himself waiting for him, like some sort of chaperone? For a moment he’s tempted to remark as such – he has to wonder just how much Leofard’s been looking forward to this.
The Keeper turns towards Chantal, stroking his neck. “Thank you for the ride,” he says, prompting a soft, rumbling noise from the chocobo’s throat. “Take care, alright?” Francel had assured him that Chantal would be able to find his way back to the Rosehouse, but Moro’a still feels slightly anxious as he fastens the reins securely to the saddle. Chantal gives one last kweh before taking off in a flurry of wingbeats towards the Haillenartes’ distant camp.
Leofard nods towards the bags slung around Moroa’s’ shoulder. “Got all yer bits and bobs? A set of spare clothes or two? Not to say we’re roughin’ it out like beastmen here, but where I’m takin’ you, things are bound to get a little rough.” He winks, and there it is – interest that’s a little too eager for friendliness, leaning on the side of heated. It brings up a flurry of emotions in Moro’a, but he sets them aside – there’ll be time to untangle whatever this is turning out to be later.
“I’m used to rough,” he answers nonchalantly, arranging his bags at the back of the second airship’s seat. “Wouldn’t be much of an adventurer if I couldn’t handle it, would I?”
Leofard grins. “Music to me ears. Now come! We’re stoppin’ by the Parrock first for some last few supplies. As for where to after that, well, it wouldn’t be much of an adventure without surprises, eh?”