[ P ] In the Shadow

Ellion didn’t have much on the docket today. His application still hadn’t been approved, though he had inquired recently on it. The rookery was slow to respond but he’d celebrated the small victory of not being told no yet. There also was no homework to finish since he’d done it earlier in the day. Ellion was always quick to get his assignments done, learning from the punishment procrastination gave. And finally, his part-time work had nothing for him to do, so they’d let him go early for the day. Even better, the sun was out while a slight breeze kept the air cool. It was one of many reasons to be in a good mood—and if any were there to witness it they’d see the grin on his face. Allen also seemed to enjoy the outdoor ambiance, as he’d decided to take the time to swoop and fly while flicking Ellion’s ear.
Ellion answered by pretending to snip at the owlet, though it easily became out of reach as it hovered above him.

So what was he to do today? He thought of his options—visit kin, head to the markets, or find somewhere to sunbathe. Since the sun was out, he figured the last option was the best to spend his time. But then that left a question of where, which made him debate taking the time to explore more of Rionnach.

”Should we risk traveling further, Allen?” He asked his companion, though he knew it’d be impossible to gain the distance to go far. Not intending to be late for the next day’s affairs, he decided to stay close to his home and visit the neighboring areas. He didn’t need the most spectacular place—only one that offered him a good spot to rest his eyes.

Then he landed on the answer—Yorkshire. The barracks were located there, and he might chance upon a royal guard! It was also close enough, it wouldn’t take him the remainder of the day to travel there.

Content with his choice, he called for Allen and began the journey there. It didn’t take him long to reach it and find a good place, Yorkshire hid many small meadows within its borders, but Ellion didn’t need to be nitpicky about which one to choose, so he opted for the first one he came upon. Small enough to charm, but not large enough he couldn’t toss himself into the woods quickly if the need arose. Within a minute after arriving, he found a spot to rest his eyes. The owlet flew atop his fur and rested within it, though he didn’t mind at all. The two were quick to sleep after that.