//------------------------------//
// Chapter Three: Perilous Plans and Hazardous Hello’s 
// Story: Of Stars and Sails 
// by RadBunny 
//------------------------------//

“Wait.” Gears muttered, leaning back into a chair that was nearly twice his size.
“The Queen of the Hippogriffs- that Queen Novo? Seriously?”
Galen nodded, his wings drooping slightly on seeing the expression of his crew varying from annoyed to understanding.
“I wasn’t about to say no. Plus, I know Princess Skystar, at least a bit. If any of you have to sit out, I understand. I can get some replacements I trust. But…” A slight smile slid onto his beak for but a moment.
“You all are my crew. I can’t replace that.”

To Galen’s surprise, it was Pergin who piped up.
“Don’t insult us, Captain. I wouldn’t trust anyone around my accounting notes, let alone in the galley.” The gryphon grumbled, his wife nodding in agreement.
“Eh, we can make do on a few hours of vacation. Sounds like an interesting job to say the least.” Tilly mused.

“I’d rather not let some random engineer near my engines.” Gears also grumbled, spines flicking up slightly with a grin.
“Besides, it’s quite fun seeing our stoic captain get flustered around a certain Princess.”
His comment prompted a grin from Tilly, but Staunch Gauze seemed to wince.
“Gears….” The crystal pony whispered, eyes flickering to Galen.

“What? ‘Bout time our illustrious captain found someone to fancy!” The hedgehog chuckled, not seeing the anguish starting to creep into Galen’s eyes.
“Ok, Gears, enough of that. Glad to hear everyone’s onboard...” The captain remarked, clearly a bit distracted.
“Hmm. Once she is onboard, that’ll be interesting. You always were happier after talking to this Princess.” The hedgehog quipped, prompting another nod from both Tilly and Pergin.
“Gears, shut up.” Galen hissed, a few tendrils of energy crackling from his claws. The engineer swallowed, taking a step back and holding up his paws in shock.
“I…s-sorry, Capt’.” He whispered, the other two crew members blinking in surprise. The only one who didn’t seem shocked by Galen’s snappy remark was Staunch, who only shook her head.
“Sorry. It’s…been a long day. Take the rest of the day off- we’ll leave at night. I’ll handle getting supplies.” Galen muttered, the crew nodding as they dispersed to wander Klugetown for a time.

A certain crystal pony stayed behind however, letting out a sad sigh.
“You’ll have to tell them eventually you know. Everyone worries about you at times, even I can see that.” She whispered, prompting Galen’s wings to drop.
“More than just them, and I know.” The Knight replied softly, shaking his head.
“Thank you Staunch. Just, enjoy your day off, and I’ll see you tonight.”
The sparkling light green medic shook her head with a kind smile, gesturing to the door.
“Eh. I feel like grabbing some food and wandering the shops for a bit. Care to join me? If you have time before getting the supplies at least.”
Staunch didn’t miss the surprise in Galen’s eyes nor the genuine smile on his beak as the pair meandered to find one of the few sanitary eateries in the Badlands town.





 -The Following Evening-


“We’re in position, Captain.” Alabaster whispered, guiding the ship within a stone’s throw of the cliff face.
“Alright. I’ll go and get Skystar- you all be ready to leave. According to the Queen’s notes, we have about fifteen minutes before a guard will head this way. Even then, it’s unlikely you’ll be spotted. I’ll be back by then though.” Galen instructed the crew gathered on the deck. Clad in a black faux leather vest and gauntlets, the gryphon blended in perfectly to the Mount Aris stone with his grey feathers.

The previous evening and the current morning had been a scramble to get the necessary supplies on board- and even then, a stop in Griffinstone was a necessity on their way to the mapping grounds in the far north.
“Take care, Captain.” Tilly whispered, the crew then vanishing below decks. The piloting was left to Alabaster, who could maneuver the ship devoid of lights or lookouts.

Hopping from the ship to a low balcony, Galen heaved himself up and poked his head into the passageway. As expected, the dark and damp maintenance tunnel was clear.
I really hope you just believe me, Skystar. Hauling you out of here unconscious is not the ideal plan.
Once he got to her room, time would be of the essence. If he failed to convince her within a moment or two…
Random trader dressed in black shows up in your window, ‘hey, your mom wants us to kidnap you.’
Perfectly believable.

Scooting through the barely shoulder-wide tunnel, Gallen poked his head out of a cliffside exit, the jagged rocks at the water’s edge leering up at him eagerly far down below.
So, to my right should be…

And, just as the map Novo had given him indicated, a balcony jutted out from the large castle above them- barely a few wingbeats away. 
Carefully spreading his wings and minding the dangerous cross-currents, Galen flitted up to the ledge, landing with a sigh and undoing a small tube from his vest. Tapping his gauntlet twice, he sent the signal to Alabaster of his location. If he did have to carry Skystar out, it wouldn’t be through those tunnels again.

A simple balcony lock was easily defeated with a wave of Galen’s claws- the protective spells being disable for a two-hour window. Opening the glass paneled wood door, the gryphon easily slipped inside.
It was a nice room; silk curtains with a few shelves and a rather large bookcase in the corner. A desk inhabited another part of the area, as did a large wooden chest or two. To his left however…
Reaching over the bed to give the sleeping Hippogriff a shake, Galen glanced at his gauntlet, a small crystal timer slowly ticking away.
Please don’t punch me please don’t punch…
“Skystar? Skystar. Wake up!” He whispered, prompting a rather adorable mumble as the Princess stirred.
“Mbwa…huh? What?” She muttered, slowly blinking.
“WH-” Her exclamation barely rose above a whisper before Galen clamped a set of claws around her beak, then letting them go.
“It’s Galen! We need to go. I have a letter from the Queen that explains it all- you’re in danger.” He explained, Skystar clearly not buying it- at least fully.
“Ok, where’s the letter then? And what is going on? How did you get in here?” She asked, voice still too loud for Galen’s liking.
“It’s on my ship, we need to go now. Queen Novo only gave me a short window!”

Skystar shook her head, claws slowly reaching over towards a nightstand. Galen’s gauntlet then began to flash red, indicating they were down to minutes to escape before the window closed.
Oh tailfeathers. Those tunnels slowed me down.
“So my mom asked you to what, kidnap me? Let you in here? HEY!” She exclaimed, Galen quickly raising the blowgun in his claws and puffing his cheeks.
Staring at the red-feathered dart on her flank, Skystar glared at Galen who at least had the decency to shrug apologetically.
“Sorry. We need to go.”
“W-what a jerk, you shot a dart at…me…” The hippogriff’s eyes rolled back in her head as the princess flopped onto the ground. Opening the drawer out of curiosity, Galen saw an ornate dagger sitting at the ready.
That would not have been fun to deal with.
Taking a few pieces of hair and debris from the satchel on his chest, Galen scattered it around the room, carefully placing items on the floor as if being bumped over.
There. Traces of kidnapping left- hopefully to set everyone off our trail.
 
Quickly padding over to Skystar, Galen tapped his gauntlet three times, then heaving the prone hippogriff onto his back.
Jeez you are heavier than I thought! And yet have quite a nice figure still. 
Ok, focus.

Making his way to the balcony, Galen saw the dark outline of his ship cruising below them; right on time. Adjusting his hold on Skystar, he gripped her upper torso as he spread his wings, the strain making the gryphon wince as they glided down to the deck. As soon as they landed, Alabaster sent the ship to the water’s edge, skimming over white-capped breakers.
“Anyone notice us?” Galen asked as Alabaster shimmered into existence next to him.
“No, we are free and clear. I assume the Princess didn’t come willingly?” He asked, prompting Galen to shake his head as he slung the snoring hippogriff over his back again.
“Nope. I assume the guest quarters are ready? And you know the drill…”
“Yes, yes. A helpful ship pilot and butler ready to serve. OH!” The magical entity then spontaneously grew a glorious moustache, then prancing up and down happily.
“Switch will not be happy, but oh I love it. It does fit the butler role after all.” The pony chuckled, then vanishing with a soft ‘pop.’

As Galen lay Skystar in the guest bed, the gryphon’s wings slumped as he unbuckled the breastplate. Making sure Queen Novo’s letter was in full view, the Knight left the Princess to sleep with a regretful glance backwards.
“Sorry Skystar…” He whispered, closing the door and meandering to the main deck where Staunch Gauze was waiting.
“You had to use the tranquilizing darts, didn’t you?” The crystal pony asked.
“Yep. So, if you could check up on her when she wakes, that’d be fantastic.” Galen added, prompting a nod.
“I’ll do that- as soon as Alabaster lets me know. For now, I think it’s time for bed.”

The gryphon then nodded, choosing to remain on the deck for a few moments longer as the rest of the crew turned in for the night. With the dark waves below them shimmering in the moonlight and the stairs twinkling above, the ship seemed to float through space itself.
I wonder if this is what it’s like to soar up there, above the highest airship limits…

With that final thought, Galen plotted a course to his own bed, flopping in it with a tired sigh. Hopefully the morning wouldn’t be as chaotic as the past few days.
But perhaps that is to tempt fate. At least we got away clean- not much else I can wish for.
Of course, the gryphon knew that last musing was hardly the truth by any stretch.





Skystar awoke to a horrible taste in her mouth, the princess yawning and shifting around on her comfy bed.
Yuck. It feels like I chewed on some rotten seaweed for a few hours…and then licked a starfish!
Wait. This isn’t my-
Bolting upright, Skystar’s eyes widened on seeing her surroundings. The cozy rectangular room was neatly organized, a desk immediately to her right and a few shelves attached to the metal and wooden walls on her left. On the desk was a canteen and a stack of papers, as well a few strange books next to an unlit lantern. On examining the window straight across from of her…
Whoaaaaaa!

The ocean shimmered in the bright sun, green and white waves rushing by far below as a few wisps of cloud sped by. A flock of birds was easily surpassed as they zipped through the sky above them.
We’re so high up! An airship!? Wait. Galen!
HE SHOT ME!

A slight growl formed in Skystar’s throat- the hippogriff then pausing as a very strange pony shimmered into existence in front of her.
“Hello, Princess Skystar.” The pony chirped, gesturing to the desk.
“My name is Alabaster, or Al, if you prefer. I’m one of two magical golems who help run this vessel. A letter from Queen Novo is there, as is some water. The tranquilizers leave quite a foul taste in the mouth, so I am told.” Alabaster explained cheerily.

“Before anything, I was asked to have you read the letter, since it explains the current situation. Then, it would be best for our medic to look you over for any lingering after effects of the dart.” The golem then paused, twirling a fantastic curly moustache with a hoof.
“For the record, the Captain has seemed extremely regretful at having to dart you.”
Huh. Well at least he’s not a TOTAL jerk. 
So far.
“I-erm, ok? So, a letter from my mom?” Skystar asked, wincing as her voice came out rather scratchy.
“Yes. It’s the top letter. I’ll leave to give you some privacy- just call me when you are finished.” Al instructed, and indeed vanished with a pleasant ‘snap’.

After cautiously sniffing the contents of the canteen, Skystar took a swig of the clear water and picked up the parchment, her heart skipping a beat at seeing the beautiful calligraphy that was her mother’s signature writing style, as well as the royal seal; a wax stamp of Mount Aris sitting atop Seaquestria.
And she even added an extra dot above the mountain- her secret sign to friends and family…

‘Dear my little seaweed wrap, 
You must be confused and likely frustrated at this turn of events, and for that I cannot apologize enough. It has pained me beyond measure to have things turn out this way, but it is all for your good. First off, do not blame Captain Galen in this matter, for I approached him personally for this endeavor. In fact, he was recommended with the highest regards by Celestia herself for this task.
 
This task being, to keep you safe.
My dearest daughter, I have been forced to not tell you the truth of these past months. The separatist movement has been more severe than I can explain in a few words. They have threatened both me and you, and have infiltrated the highest levels of our kingdom, including our own royal guard. With the defectors leaving disturbing holes in our security, every day was a blessing you were still safe. At worst, civil war is a possibility I cannot ignore, but with Celestia’s help I believe we can resolve things in a few weeks before that happens. That said, these threats have kept me awake at night with their ferocity and malice. I can endure such things myself- but if something were to happen to you…
 
I can weather this storm, but only if I know you are safe and far from any harm. Captain Galen-(ask his other title to put your heart further at ease,) and his crew will keep you safe. We won’t have any contact for two weeks, and by then things should be stabilized. They are to be mapping a remote area- so you’ll definitely get to see a place outside Mount Aris! I’ll be fine here, and we’ll be back to making dinner together before you know it.
I love you, and I’ll see you soon. 
-Novo’

Tears ran down Skystar’s cheeks as she carefully placed the parchment back on the desk. Her chest shook with a few sobs, the princess recalling all the small details that had made this letter seem so obvious.
My mom’s stress, her tears at times, the long meetings, I knew something was up!
And yet she didn’t tell me, all to keep me safe.
A few more sniffles later, Skystar wiped away the dampness on her cheeks and sighed, taking a few deep breaths. The weight of uncertainty had finally vanished from her shoulders- at least she knew the situation, finally.
Maybe I won’t slap Galen after all.

“Hey, um, Alabaster?” She called, the pony appearing on the desk at half-size.
“Yes? How can I be of assistance? I assume you have read the parchment?” He asked, prompting a nod.
“Yeah. I- it’s just a lot to take in. So, you said the crew doctor wants to take a look at me?” She asked, the golem then nodding.
“That is correct, and she can lead you to the main deck. Stand by.” 

After a few moments, there was a knock at the door before it opened, Skystar’s eyes widening in surprise on seeing a crystal unicorn enter with a wave.
“Hey there! I’m Staunch Gauze- or just Staunch. I’m the ship’s medic, as Alabaster already told you.” She explained, setting a small satchel down on the desk.
“I’m-” Skystar’s voice cut off, the hippogriff letting out a giggle, shaking her head.
“Well, I’m Princess Skystar, but you already know all that.”

Staunch smiled, nodding as she levitated a tongue depressor up, her horn igniting with a soft light.
“Just need you to open wide. The biggest tell-tale sign of a bad reaction is dots on your tongue.”
Skystar did so- and after a brief look Staunch shut off the spell.
“Well, no reaction, so that’s good. The bad taste in your mouth should be gone within the hour.” She let out a slight smile. 
“I think Al mentioned it, but the Captain was not happy about having to use the darts.”

The princess’s wings drooped, imagining how much more difficult she must have made things…
“Oh goodness, not because of you, Princess! I’m told you didn’t react out of hoof- erm, claw.” Staunch remarked, waving a limb.
“He just hated the idea of darting a friend. Probably expects you to slap him…”
“I mean, I was considering it.” Skystar mumbled, prompting a laugh.
“Well, he wouldn’t blame you. I know you’ve got a lot of questions, so follow me to the main deck. I can answer as many as I can on the way however.”

Following the pony out into the hallway, Skystar’s eyes narrowed on seeing familiar dark metal banding on the wooden planks.
“Is this a Storm King ship?” She asked, Staunch nodding in reply.
“Yep! Well, ex-storm king, since that jerk is gone. Toooons of his ships were left to wander, so quite a few were purchased by mercenaries, trading companies, or a certain captain. Totally refurbished and refit courtesy of our hedgehog engineer and Galen.” The medic then raised a hoof dismissively. 
“Not a hedgehog employed by the Storm King. Gears hates that tyrant to no end. You’ll meet everyone soon enough though.”

Skystar nodded, already surprised by the new information. An ex-storm king ship, a crystal pony medic, and a hedgehog engineer?
And then Galen himself- my mom said to ask about his other titles? Huh.
“What’s your story? How does a crystal pony end up on a ship in the badlands?” Skystar asked as they meandered the halls, stopping by a small staircase.
“Short version? After the spell concealing the empire was lifted, it was just too much to take in.” Staunch explained, leaning on the railing in thought.
“Everything I knew about the world was gone or changed. That includes most places and creatures alike, and it just didn’t feel right staying. I took a few odd jobs that led me farther and farther to the borders, and finally got medical training and a position on a trading vessel.” She then let out a slight chuckle.
“Well. That lasted all of a week when the captain tried to sell me to some creepy reptile. I jumped ship in Klugetown and found the general hospital. Galen needed a medic, so I signed on.” Staunch now had a wide grin on her face, the pair making their way up the stairs.
“That was a little over two years ago, and I haven’t had a dull day since, or close enough to it.”

Skystar blinked, finding the upbeat pony’s demeanor both a comfort and relaxing. Heaving open a hatch at the top of the stairs, Staunch gestured to the wide deck of the airship with a smile.
“Welcome aboard the Crystal Hail.”
The hippogriff’s beak dropped in awe as the ship sped through the wispy clouds, distant mountains rising on the horizon beyond the ocean immediately below. A lanky gryphon was sitting at a table across the open deck next to a large structural support, a rather well-muscled gryphoness across from him chuckling at something said.
“You’ll get introduced formally soon enough- but that’s Tilly and Pergin, the Second in Command and Accountant. Well, accountant and cook.” Staunch explained, not able to resist a grin as Pergin showed a small wooden container to Tilly, prompting the gryphoness to wrap him up in a loving hug and kiss. Skystar couldn’t help but smile as well at the show of affection.
Awwww!
“I’m still surprised she doesn’t snap him in half with those hugs…” The medic mused, waving a hoof to the pair.
“Don’t let Pergin’s grumbly nature fool you- he’s not that bad.” Staunch remarked, then tilted her head in thought.
“Eh. Ok, he can be pretty grumpy, but Tilly brings out the best in him. Probably why they got married years ago.”
Ooooh. Good to know.
Years ago…hmm. I wonder how old everyone is? Tilly and Pergin look quite a bit older than me.

“So, there’s you, Gears the engineer, Tilly, Pergin, and Galen?” Skystar asked, prompting a nod.
“Yep! And Alabaster of course. He helps a ton with steering the ship and such.”
“Never met a magical golem before- he seems nice though.”
Staunch nodded, the looking behind them and waving.
“Oi! Captain, she’s up!”

Hopping down from the expose wheel assembly, Galen landed in front of the pair with a smile.
“Ah, thank you Staunch. And…erm…” The gryphon’s feathers fluffed slightly, a wince meandering onto his beak.
“Sorry about the rude pick up, Princess. I didn’t really have any other option.”
Skystar strode up to Galen, glaring down her beak at the gryphon with a rather mean scowl. The fact she was a half-head taller than him made it rather easy to look intimidating.
At least, I hope this is intimidating. It works with nobles at least.

“I was thinking of giving you a good smack when I woke up.” She grumbled, then tapping a set of claws against the wooden deck.
“I think you’ll have to repay me for sticking a dart in me, letter or not. That was not fun!”
It took all of Skystar’s self-control to not burst out laughing at seeing Galen swallow nervously. 
Oh, this is fun.
On seeing a genuine bit of hurt and guilt begin to enter the gryphon’s gaze, the hippogriff quickly shifted her tact.
Oh no, I don’t want him to ACTUALLY think I’m that mad!
…huh. I didn’t think he’d be that upset about it; that’s rather sweet.

“Sooooo. I think you’ll owe me something. Or someone else something. A thing you don’t like to do….” She mused, not able to keep the mean façade on any longer.
“You owe a hug!” Skystar chirped, causing one of Galen’s eyes to twitch, the Captain then smacking a set of claws to his face with a sigh
“That was…ok I might have deserved that.” He muttered, Skystar all smiles as she let out an amused sigh.
“I can see why my mom messes with nobles. It’s fun! But seriously, you do owe a hug to someone. Or be hugged, even though I know you don’t like it!”

Staunch’s ear twitched at Skystar’s words, looking over to Galen curiously.
“Erm, how does she know that? I mean, I know it’s pretty obviously for anyone trying to do so…”
“Oh! I honestly can’t remember when it came up. It was during one of our talks though. I think after we agreed that grilled shrimp tastes amaaaaaazing.” Skystar mused, looking over to see a slight puff to Galen’s cheeks.
Is that a blush?
“That sounds about right.” Galen agreed, only meeting Skystar’s eyes for a brief moment.
Totally. A. Blush.
Huh. He also seems…different. More confident.

Skystar looked over to see Staunch looking at them both with a grin, the pony casually sauntering off a short distance away.
“I’ll stand by whenever you want to do the formal introductions Captain.” She called with a knowing grin, Galen’s feathers fluffing ever so slightly as he grumbled under his breath.
“Eh, best we get that taken care of. Alabaster? If you would be so kind.”

A soft chime rang out over the crystal speakers, prompting the three individuals on deck to walk over. A hatch swung open with a ‘CLANG’, a small hedgehog clambering his way out to stand next to the other individuals, clad in a dark maroon pocketed vest.
Oh my gosh he barely comes up to my knee!
 
“Well, since you’ll be on our ship for two weeks, best we get the formal introductions out of the way.” Galen remarked, gesturing to each individual as he spoke.
“Tilly, my second in command and general supply manager. Pergin, accountant and cook. Staunch Gauze, fantastic medic and herbalist. Gears, ship’s engineer, and your oh so perfect Captain.” Galen concluded, prompting a snicker from Gears. 

“Our job is as you read in that note, Princess, and as I’ve explained previously. We’ll be stopping by Griffinstone today and then heading deep into unmapped areas to the north. We’ll keep you safe until all is settled.” Galen stated, prompting determined nods from all of the crew.
This is a new side to him- more outgoing and sure than when we were chatting. I guess it’s because this is his element.
 
“It’s an odd job to be sure, but compared to others, eh, this is probably a seven out of ten on the weird scale.” Gears piped up.
“…What was a ten?” Skystar ventured to ask, prompting immediate wincing from the entire crew, a few looking a tad green (Staunch even more so).
“You do not want to know what happens when pressurized magical plant mixture springs a leak during a ten-day voyage in the summer, nor when it starts talking to you.” Galen muttered, prompting Gears to shiver.
“Ok, moving on; lunch will be ready within an hour.” Pergin remarked, turning to head back inside after giving his wife a brief nuzzle.
“Let anyone know if you have questions, Princess. We’ll do our best to make you comfortable. Professionalism has its place, and I can vouch everyone can be such if the need arises, so don’t be put off if we all seem too easy going.” Galen continued, Tilly nodding in agreement.
“Aye. Running a tight ship is all fine and dandy until everyone loses their fur from stress. Plenty of times to be frantic and professional- but most of the time, this is just our home.” She explained, Skystar certainly appreciating the idea.
“Huh. I like that idea. It makes sense too! Well, thank you all for your help- erm, I’ll thank Pergin when I see him again. Oh! And no need for the Princess bit.” Skystar added, sticking out her tongue.
“I guess I’m here for two weeks, so I’d rather just be Skystar. I get enough of the Princess bit everywhere else.”

She didn’t miss how Galen’s ears perked up slightly, everyone present nodding.
“Skystar it is. Now if you’d like, I can show you around.” Galen added, promptly sending Gears tumbling head over tail as the hedgehog began to grin and snicker.
“Oh shut it. I swear sometimes…” The gryphon muttered as every creature dispersed back to their various posts, leaving him alone with Skystar on deck.
“Soooo I get a tour? Nice to see you too by the way.” Skystar chirped happily, then shrugging her wings in afterthought. “Even if I did get a dart in my side.”
“Sorry about that. I really didn’t have any other ways to get you onto the ship quickly and quietly.” Galen mumbled, ears perking up at Skystar waving a set of claws dismissively.
“It’s ok, but you totally are getting a hug cashed in, either giving or receiving. Fair is fair.”

Galen muttered a few things under his breather but nodded regardless, leading Skystar to the aft of the ship. The princess’s eyes widened on seeing the glowing crystal thrusters next to the steam turbines, her curiosity taking hold.
“Ok, I’ve never seen something like that! How does it work?” She asked, slightly mesmerized by the spinning crystal petals.
“Gears would be more than happy to explain further, but in short, we’ve got a mana crystal on board. We direct raw magical energy through some amplifiers, and basically overcharge a propulsion and transfer spell. The crystals will give out before the spell does, so it’s a pretty effective if not inefficient method of travel.” Galen explained, prompting a head tilt from Skystar.
“A mana crystal? For this whole ship? I’ve never heard of them being that big. How can you even recharge something like that?”

The smile Galen returned didn’t quite reach his eyes, Skystar immediately sensing something was up.
“I can’t really tell you that. I’ve had requests from multiple governments to examine it all in detail, and I just can’t.” He replied, the unease fading as Skystar nodded.
“It’s ok, I get it. Some stuff just has to remain a trade secret.” She added, immediately seeing the Captain relax.
I’ve seen that look before, during our talks. Even when it was about silly things- something would come up, and there’d be a wall. Like he had more answers and wanted to say, but just wouldn’t…
Or perhaps couldn’t.

Leading Skystar down into the depths of the ship, Galen gave her the brief tour. From the somewhat sparse storage rooms, to a small indoor garden, and ending up in a small workshop, the hippogriff’s head being on a swivel the entire time.
This. Is. AWESOME!
“Oh, and we’ve got a small library here. You’re more than welcome to browse it of course.” Galen remarked, showing Skystar a small room lined with bookcases. A small table and cushioned resting couch was slid in-between the shelving, providing a cozy if not slightly cramped reading space as crystal lanterns hung from the low ceiling.
“I was expecting like, a single shelf. You’ve got hundreds of books here!” She crowed, happily prancing up and down and prompting a deep chuckle.
“We make sure to have it well stocked- and don’t worry if you get lost on your way here. Any rooms that you should probably stay out of are locked. Like the armory.”
Ooooooooh…..

Galen clearly couldn’t keep a smile off his face on seeing Skystar’s ears immediately perk up.
“I don’t suppose I can ask to see that?”
“Nuh uh, sorry.”
“Awww…”

Skystar couldn’t keep a matching grin off her face, a reminder from her Mother rising to the fore.
“Oh! Um, my mom said you had another tile? Other than Captain that is. She said it might make me feel better? Not sure how that’d work though.” She mused, prompting Galen’s demeanor to shift ever so slightly, the gryphon standing up a bit straighter.
“I believe that title would be ‘Knight’, but the whole title? Captain Galen, Knight of the Grey Order.” He explained, not able to resist a satisfied smile on seeing Skystar’s jaw drop.
“What? How?! What is the Grey Order? I know Gyld was training more, but….”
Galen held up a set of claws and sat down, shoulders shrugging.
“In short, I heard all about Gallus’s journey, and thought it a rather noble pursuit. I was tested with the same requirements and passed as such. They Grey Order title has to do with my allegiance. I have sworn no oath to a specific province or creature. I still live by the Knight’s code and am worth of the title however. Should I swear to something, or someone, I’d just be a Knight. It’s more of a placeholder for those without an allegiance.” He happily explained.

“Ooooh. That’s…really cool actually.” Skystar mused, then felt a slight blush rise to her cheeks.
“It does make me feel better though. Huh.”
She didn’t miss the slightly proud fluffing of Galen’s feathers, but it certainly was warranted.
‘Well, I’m glad. It does make sense- it’s an extra level of safety. Not a guarantee of trust, but at least a step to show I’m not all that bad.” He remarked, causing Skystar to giggle.
“I already knew you weren’t that bad.”

Skystar then perked her ears up, head then tilting to the side in thought.
“You know, I actually don’t know that much about you. We usually just talked about the crazy places you went, and what foods were great. And some other stuff, but I really don’t know that much about you, but would certainly like to.”
It took all of the hippogriff’s self-control to not let out a happy squeak as she watched the gryphon’s reaction. Galen’s face lit up as genuine joy flooded into his blue eyes at her words. 
Yet like a rogue wave to a ship, something took hold of the unbridled happiness that was building and yanked it back behind dark walls, the gryphon’s shoulders sagging slightly. He was about to reply when the Captain’s gauntlet flashed.

“Captain, approaching Griffinstone. We’ll handle the supply transfer easy enough. Shouldn’t be more than a couple of hours before we set off.” Tilly’s voice echoed from a small crystal set near the wooden doorway. 
Skystar watched in both worry and curiosity as something about Galen’s demeanor shifted further, the gryphon suddenly seeming to bear yet more weight on his shoulders. Gone was the jovial captain that had gleefully shown her the engine room and laughed as Gears grumbled about incorrect pony manuals.
I know that look.
The realization of familiarity had Skystar’s heart aching. The haunted look in Galen’s eyes immediately had her on edge, despite the gryphon leading her back to the main deck without missing a beat. The smile barely left his beak- eyes not quite matching his demeanor.
That look. It’s the one I had on my face for a year after dad died.

“I need to guide the ship in; I’d ask that you stay aboard as we load the supplies. Gears will make sure nobody sees you. He’s got a concealment device ready for that purpose actually.” Galen relayed, nodding to Skystar as he scrambled back up to the exposed wheelhouse.

Popping up next to her, Gears waved, a small bracelet in hand.
“Heya Princess. Erm, Skystar.” He said, gesturing for her to come down belowdecks.
“This bracelet here will conceal your form. You’ll basically be the most generic looking gryphon ever. A combination of the most common color shades. It’ll change your eyes too.” The hedgehog explained as Skystar snapped it on.
“…I don’t really feel much difference.” She mused, all the while detecting only a very slight magical tingle that ran through her body.
“Good, good, it’s a powerful spell, so you’re likely to feel something; but I’m glad that it’s nothing major. Take a look. Your voice is shifted too, but you won’t hear that.”
Producing a small (and from Skystar’s perspective, adorably tiny,) mirror from a pocket, Gears angled it up to her.
“…Wow. That’s pretty good.” Skystar remarked, seeing a typical gryphoness looking back at her. Off grey patterns dotted her charcoal body, hints of cream shining through on her chest.
“Thanks, Gears.”
The hedgehog waved off the thanks, a strange device on his feet then catching Skystar’s attention.
“What are those?”
Showing off what looked to be ice skates rather proudly, Gears grinned as he tapped them, the shoes sparking with blue tendrils of magic. While having a thin strip of metal like normal ice skates, bright blue magic coursed along the bottom edge, occasionally sparking this way and that.
“Arcane Skates. The entire ship has conduits built into it, including the hallways. I’m not the fastest runner, obviously, so these let me zip around faster than most can run. Pretty useful when I need to adjust a bow rudder and then engage the steam intakes at opposite ends of the ship.” He explained, not able to resist a grin at seeing Skystar’s face light up.
“That’s sooooo coooooool!”
The hedgehog cackled, gesturing around with a sigh.
“At last someone appreciates my work!” He crowed, then shrugging his small shoulders.
“Eh, ok, Galen certainly does since he helped design the things, but that’s a different matter.”

Pausing for a moment, Skystar then looked back to the hedgehog curiously as an ever-present question nagged at her mind.
“What is in Griffinstone? Galen really changed after he heard we were arriving.”
Gears’ small ears immediately flattened, along with his quills as the engineer refused to look at Skystar.
“It’s not my place to say. You’ll find out soon enough however. We’ll have to pick up the captain after getting our supplies regardless.” The hedgehog mumbled.
“Look, I might go too far with jokes at times, but there’s some stuff I know not to touch. We might all joke and mess around here- but we really are a family, Skystar. So we all mostly know each other’s limits. You’ll find out later today. I wouldn’t recommend talking with him until we’re clear though. He’s not too pleasant in the meantime.”

Skystar nodded, instead focusing on a different part of what the helpful hedgehog had said.
“A family? Sooooo Tilly and Pergin are the mom and dad? They’re the oldest right?” She mused, a feeling of relief washing over the hippogriff as Gears chuckled.
“Oh gosh. No, I’d say…hmm. Well, ok that might work. I mean, they’re the only married couple here, so I guess that’s it? But they’re older than Galen by almost a decade. I guess I’d be the little brother- being the youngest of the crew. Wait. That makes Staunch my older sister.”
The hedgehog tapped his cheek in thought, finally shrugging.
“Considering how much she bugs me to brush my teeth, that actually would fit.”

Skystar giggled, then nodding slowly.
“So, you’re the youngest, then Staunch, then Galen, then Tilly and Pergin?” 
“Yup! Yet age aside, we all follow Galen without question. He’s certainly earned that right. If he says to jump off the ship right now, we do it.”
Blinking in surprise, Skystar saw no joking in the hedgehog’s gaze.
“Wait, seriously? That quick?”
“Yup. He’s saved our lives multiple times. There hasn’t been a single crazy order he’s given that has not been for good reason, nor ended in a worse outcome that not following it.”

Slotting in that bit of information in the ‘reasons to respect Galen’ folder of her mind, Skystar nodded as she gestured to the hatch at the top of the stairway.
“Good to know then. I guess I’ll watch everything from up there- and thank you for the disguise!”
The hedgehog waved as Skystar made her way back, taking place near one of the railings as the ship neared the newly-constructed Griffinstone docks.
Well didn’t this trip get a bit more interesting…
Despite the questions and curiosity, Skystar knew she’d have to deal with the aching worry about home.
Stay safe, Mom.





The loading of supplies only took two hours; various gryphons unceremoniously depositing crates onto the deck of the ship with ease, Gears operating a small fold-out crane from the deck that delivered the containers belowdecks. The golden bits that Tilly and Pergin slipped the dock workers certainly ensured it was all handled correctly- and that items didn’t go missing. Galen had flown off towards a few grassy hills in the distance, leaving Skystar to speculate as the final crates were lowered into the hold.

“Alright, now to get the captain.” Tilly muttered, Pergin shaking his head sadly.

“He seemed to be less distracted this time, that’s a good thing at least.”

As Alabaster send the ship cruising towards the distant hills, Skystar’s heart caught in her throat. An all-too familiar sight filled her gaze, stone tablets arranged neatly behind an ornate metal fence in a small grassy hilltop. 
The rest of the crew busied themselves with organizing a few loose supplies, Staunch Gauze walking up to Skystar.
“Some things we just don’t ask about, nor explain to others unless prompted.” She whispered, Skystar nodding as they got closer.

Galen was sitting on his haunches, a series of gravestones arrayed neatly out in front of him. A small fist-sized pile of sticks was burning, the smoke sparking with blue flakes of magic. He seemed to be saying something, but not an enchantment. It simply looked like he was talking to himself.
No, not to himself…
Skystar’s already worried heart promptly fell to pieces as they slowed to a stop.
There were five graves in front of Galen;
Two large markers, and three smaller ones.
That’s….wait.
Oh Galen….

“His family?” Skystar whispered without thinking, quickly shaking her head as any further questions turn to ash on her tongue. She saw Staunch nod once sadly, watching the captain with a sorrowful expression.

“I knew something like this was up.” She whispered, Staunch looking over in surprise.
“Hmm? How?”
The hippogriff gestured to Galen, who was busy scattering the remnants of the small funeral pyre with a telekinetic push.
“Because I looked like that after my dad died.”

A few more minutes passed, and soon enough Galen flew back to the main deck, tapping his gauntlet once.
“Alright Alabaster, take us out. Let’s go play map maker.” He said, the captain now looking more tired than anything.
Looking up and seeing Skystar, Galen simply shrugged as the rest of the crew went about their duties. The hippogriff didn’t say anything, letting Galen take his place near the wheel as the ship soared away to the north. 

For a time, Skystar watched as the distant ground flew by, a few clouds covering the sun with wispy fingers. She finally pushed off from the railing, walking up to sit next to Galen, who had a single set of claws on the wooden wheel.
“I won’t ask, but…I just wanted to say I’m sorry.” Skystar whispered, prompting the Captain’s ears to perk up slightly.
“It’s not my business, but I know how hard it is, at least in a way.”
Seeing him nod, Skystar was about leave but gave pause as Galen spoke. 
“If there was a contract for an easy life, we all would have signed it. We just have to live with what we are dealt.” He said, voice barely audible over the rushing wind. Despite not meeting her eyes, Skystar didn’t miss the hurt still fresh in his gaze and voice.
How many others know about his family, outside of his crew?

“If you don’t want a hug, I won’t, but if it’d help, then I’d be happy to.” She said, seeing the gryphon look down at his clause. A slight shrug caught her attention, and the hippogriff decided to chance it as Galen shifted ever so slightly in her direction.
Well, it’s not a no.

Galen stiffened at her touch- the hippogriff wrapping a set of arms around his torso briefly.
To her surprise, she felt him relax ever so slightly and lean into the gesture with a shaking breath.
“I’ll leave you alone now.” She whispered, letting go and padding down the steep stairs towards the main deck.
“Hey, Skystar?” He called, stunning blue eyes meeting hers briefly.
“Thanks.”
She smiled, trotting down back below decks as the wind kicked up, slinging a bit of moisture across the ship.
Tough as you might be, you can’t run away from that stuff. Hopefully that helped rather than not…
Of course, Skystar struggled to ignore the looming fact that Galen’s feathers and fur had been incredibly soft.
Time and a place. In this case, I just hope he felt better.
I wonder when I’ll get to learn more about you…