Leaving the salt lake that resembled a sky-reflecting mirror, Angel brought Rhein and Sanders aboard the Gondola.
The moment they boarded, Dangros leaped up from the table in fear. Then, in a flash, he scrambled up Angel's robe and hid behind him, trembling as he stuck out half a palm to examine the newcomers.
Qubige also showed some fear, but it was calmer than Dangros. Moreover, it had not been near the table to begin with, instead lying sprawled along the ship's railing. So it did not flee, but remained where it was, observing everyone just like Dangros.
Angel chuckled as he looked at Dangros, but did not forcibly pull him out.
He turned to the two wind elemental creatures outside. "Swift Spirit, fly to the Azure Forest Region. Lober, as before, guard and monitor."
With that said, the Gondola rose into the air under Swift Spirit's control.
Only after they had entered steady flight did everyone begin to converse.
Rhein smiled at the elemental creatures around them and teased Angel. "You've taken in quite a few elemental companions."
Angel shook his head. "They aren't my elemental companions yet."
"Oh?" Rhein asked. "Then why are they on your ship?"
Angel gave a brief explanation, then introduced the elemental creatures aboard to Rhein and Sanders. He clearly explained their origins and the reasons they were on the ship.
Rhein came to a realization. "So that's how it is."
After a pause, Rhein said somewhat regretfully, "Actually, I think this little hand called Dangros has quite a distinctive appearance. If his energy and talent are sufficient, you could consider it."
Rhein had an old friend, a wizard from the Noah Family known as the Black Earl. Several "other consciousnesses" had been integrated into his physical body, allowing most parts of his body