Shier stared at Lord's disappearing figure for a full three or four seconds before hurriedly putting on his shoes and going to the inner cabin to wake Albert.
Albert opened the door with a yawn. "It's not even daylight yet!"
"Lord told us to go to the deck!"
Albert stared blankly at Shier. "You're not sleepwalking, are you?"
"Come or don't."
Watching Shier leave the cabin, Albert hesitated briefly before following him out. If Shier really was sleepwalking, it would only mean taking a few extra steps.
But if what he said was true, the loss would be too great if Albert did not go.
When he reached the deck, Albert really did see Lord standing at the bow with his hands behind his back.
He looked at the still-moving Hippopotamus, then at the river flowing on both sides of the ship. He was still on the ship!
Though he did not understand what was happening, he immediately called out respectfully, "Lord!"
Hobart glanced at the swords in their hands and asked Albert, "Do you have the Sealed Artifact on you?"
Albert nodded. "I do!"
It was a family heirloom, of course he carried it with him.
"A group of enemies invaded Jeffrey Territory tonight. I've already killed their commanders. There are eight foot soldiers left, just enough for you two to get some practice."
Shier immediately grew excited. Ever since gaining Extraordinary Ability, he had never had a chance to use it. He had long wanted to fight.
Albert, meanwhile, was thinking that Lord might need help, which was why he needed them: "I'll have Wayne stop the ship."
"No need!" Hobart placed a hand on each of their shoulders. "I'm taking you through the Spirit World. Lower your heads and don't make eye contact with the creatures there."