“Voeburtite Architecture can truly be described simply as vaulted.” Windsong said quietly turning an eye toward her companion.

Aina laughed throwing an arm around the amarou’s shoulder, “So I noticed, but I suspect there is a reason you brought it up.”

The amarou bobbed her head, “Aye my former master was one of the kingdoms foremost architects.”

Aina settled against Windsong’s flank listening with genuine interest as she spoke of her former master. Once her story was finished Aina softly asked, “What happened to him?”

Windsong closed her eyes the century old grief bubbling up from the depths of her heart. “I don't know,” she replied, “Shortly before the Flood I awakened to my ability to speak and....”

Even now the terror that had been in his eyes pained her.  She who had faithfully carried him everywhere he needed to go.  She who had born supplies on her back countless times for him.  His ever loyal assistant and he had been afraid of because she could actually voice how she felt.

“Say no more,” Aina said softly stroking Windsong on her neck.  Then she just shook her head adding, “I really don't understand the reaction some people have when you guys show you can speak.”

Windsong shifted to face Aina chocolate eyes locking on pale green, “Truly?” she asked

Aina nodded, “I’d love for Zephyr, my chocobo on the Source, to be able to actually talk to me.” She raised her hands saying, “Don’t get me wrong I love the featherbrain just as he is, and he’s always there when I need him. Ready to give a comforting nudge or a soothing Kweh at the drop of a hat. he always listens to me even when he doesn't really understand what Im talking about.”

“But...?” Windsong prompted

Aina smiled at her then said softly, “Sometimes I wish I could talk with him like we are.  An actual conversation, where he can tell me what he thinks of something or voice his concerns about what were racing towards.  Again I love him dearly and I wouldn't trade him for anything. Its just sometimes, Id like someone on the road with me who can truly share the burden of being the Warrior of Light, or Darkness depending on what’s needed.”

“That....makes a lot of sense,” Windsong stated softly

The viera then hugged her saying, “I want you to know that I will always cherish this friendship for as long as we have it”

Windsong closed her eyes tears welling up in her eyes and her throat closed off threating to prevent her from speech. Tucking her head against the woman’s shoulder. “As will I dear friend. And... if ever you need someone to help you bear your burden...know that I’m here.”