Ascended Trooper

393 AC - We make our way through the heart of the valley, and I'm already sweaty after several hours of walking. High in the sky, the Raptors soar above us, ensuring that we're not taken by surprise by any threat. One of them lands on a rocky peak, and I immediately recognize her by her red hair. Aedyt. Like Osoyo, she was given the chance to join Zhen's unit, an honor that suits her perfectly. She has attracted lots of birds, which fly around her with curiosity, and she's also drawn the Rear Admiral's attention. Her large paper wings expand, helping her to remain stable at the top of the rocky edifice. When they're not keeping watch, the Tagmata troops stay busy with various tasks, including information gathering and topographical surveys.

We walk underneath the tree canopy. Here amidst their thorny branches, the darkness is overwhelming. From the corner of my eye, I suddenly see Aedyt straighten. Through the Gestalt, I inhale the scent of coffee while she shares her perceptions with me. I see the steaming cup, and the thermos that she's closed back up. And I see the huge water sphere heading to a mountainous promontory. Yes, she's right – if we wait too long, the bubble will burst, and torrents of water will flood into the valley, down to where we are. I give the order to Tocsin to sound his horn. The blast rings out through the valley, and clouds of birds take off into the sky. We'll need to be quick. Aedyt leaves her perch and hovers above us before rejoining her squadron.

GULRANG