When day broke, the winds were non-existent. Even upon the carriage, the atmosphere was at its heaviest. Lindi was less attentive, Qondile and Nomonda sat away from each other. The most positive soul was that of baby Judge who'd chosen, of all Black Air Raiders, Sarah as his new play mate. For the longest time Judge stared at her. And when Sarah stared back, he'd turn away. Eventually it became a game with Judge trying not to be seen staring by Sarah, who wasn't having fun. She grumbled curses to herself. Shoki and Lindi rode with Merriam up front. All but her receiving turns on the roof, sitting up and spreading their wings to get as much air as possible.
Sarah was simply following the orders set by Heather, herself, 'kill all who discover us to be solders.
Now, days later, she was still being punished.
Sarah fiddled with the lock, opening and closing it.
As if by magic, she saw the door fly open. Judge was hanging on the handle. She panicked beyond screaming. Instinct and fear launched her forwards, diving under the child. He laughed as he let go, falling into her arms. Sarah pulled him in and lay him stomach first on the floor, holding him. Quite literally needing a moment. She had to regain her bearings.
She burst out laughing, laying next to him, her head hanging out the carriage, the rush of air pressed on her skin making her robes flutter. It was impossible to not try breath it in and let her hair flutter. Not willing to leave the boy to himself, she pulled him close.
The Carriage sped up.
"We're almost at the border!" Qondile yelled.