#oxcart

1 May 1965. Lockheed YF-12A 60-6936 taking off from Edwards Air Force Base during speed record trials. The white cross on the aircraft’s underside assisted timers and observers.

June 2013　KTM　Kathmandu　Nepal Road to Lumbini

© KOJI ARAKI Art Works

"Wyd, come on," Zachariah sounded slightly annoyed, "The oxcart is leaving!"

"I'm right here, Arisen," Wyd replied in his usual, slightly grumpy tone. What did the Arisen want from him? He was standing right next to the cart!

"Yes, but you're down there," Zachariah barked slightly exasperated, as he theatrically pointed to Wyd on the road.

"Yes?" Wyd replied, trying hard not to sound equally exasperated.

"Yes! So?" Zachariah waved his arms in direction of the cart.

"Arisen, what do you want from me? I am right here!" Wyd snapped.

"The cart is leaving! Get on, for heaven's sake!" Zachariah almost shouted in exasperation.

Wyd blinked and stared at him as if the Arisen had lost his mind.

"What? What's that look for now? Do I have to drag you on?" Zachariah continued.

Wyd shook himself out of his stupor, "You want me to ride... on the cart? With you?"

Zachariah looked somewhat befuddled, "Yes, of course! What did you think?"

The driver turned around to the Arisen and explained, "Pawns usually walk when there's people in the cart already."

Zachariah gave the man a stunned look before turning around, "Pawns, are people!" He turned back to Wyd, "Get on the damn cart NOW!"

Wyd forced his legs to move despite his bewilderment and climbed onto the cart, hesitantly sitting down next to Zachariah.

Zachariah let out a deep sigh, looking Wyd up and down. Then he looked to the driver, who had turned back to the road and started his ox. Evidently he wasn't about to argue with the Arisen.

Wyd looked like he was waiting to be punched. With a sigh, Zachariah's expression softened again, and he put a hand on Wyd's shoulder, "I told you before that to me you are an equal. I would not have you walk while I sit on the cart. Now relax, kick your feet up and enjoy the ride." He gave the pawn's shoulder an encouraging pat and followed his own advice, putting his feet up on the opposite bench.

Wyd relaxed a little, though he still felt like an impostor. He stole a glance at Zachariah and couldn't help but smile slightly, a very warm and fuzzy feeling spreading in his chest.

From the A-12 to the SR-71. The U.S. Unbeatable Spy Plane.

The SR-71 leaked.

A lot.

H/T: Link

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