<b>It didn't take long for the crew to load the ship, and by the time the group arrived with their bags Ellyah and his men were ready to go. Flagdon looked green beneath his beard at the sight, but squared his shoulders and boarded. Timberlane pushed the hobbits forward, following close behind. <br/>
<br/>
When Allasea followed behind with her animals, a few eyebrows raised, and more than one of the men stepped away from Jax. The bear wasn't interested in them though; instead, headed towards the nearest cabin wall and curled up. Ellyah, on the other hand, wasn't fazed by the animals and held out his hand to help her onboard.</b><br/><br/><b>Behind them, Allassiel shook her head and leaned in to whisper to Pegawen, who grinned in return. <br/>
</b><br/>“<b>What are you ladies going on about?” Ellyah asked as he released Allasea's hand and offering it to Pegawen.</b><br/><br/>“<b>Allassiel was wondering if any of these men had seen an animal that doesn't swim in the sea.” Pegawen took the offered hand and stepped onto the ship's deck. “Hannon le.”</b><br/><br/>“<b>You're most welcome.” Ellyah smiled down at Pegawen. “You recall to me my mother, she too was a master of tact.”</b><br/><br/><b>Allassiel shook, her lips pursed to conceal her laughter as she grabbed hold of Ellyah's hand and followed Pegawen. “You'd not say that if you had to try to get her attention while reading.”</b><br/><br/><b>After everyone had boarded, Ellyah motioned for them to follow. “I'm afraid the cabin quarters are cramped, but the trip won't take more than a couple of days. I've had my men take your bags down to the rooms.” They headed below deck, the men having to duck to avoid hitting their head on the doors. “I'll let you settle in and we'll be leaving as soon as the supplies are secured.</b>