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From a RP I'm doing with Nate the Great

Azure City

Next day, the mass of humans and anthros filled the road to the city. In the distance you could already see the spires of the tallest buildings in the city. Colors of blue, green and gold shimmered in the noon day heat.

A massive equine was astride an equally massive steed. Next to him rode a slim figured dragon riding upon an exquisite white stallion. Behind them a human male upon a black stallion and two screecats followed.

The two screecats, one gray male named Two Fang, and the second, a white female, padded alongside the other to keep up with the riders. It wasn't easy due to the fact that the horses were much taller than the felines, but they managed to keep up somehow. "You alright, Two Fang?" Asked the young dragon riding his white steed. The gray male chuffed to let him know all was well. The dragon smiled and he turned to the stallion riding next to him. "How much further till we get there?" He asked.

"Well, if we don't encounter any more 'delays' I'd say we should be there just before dark. Finn, go and let everyone we'll stop in about an hour to give the horses a rest and water. Keep a keen out for anything out of the ordinary. Check in with Boris. He and some of the winged are on patrol near the southern mountains." His brother nodded and galloped off.

The young dragon smiled and patted his ride's neck and the white stallion he was riding revealed his horn to create small snowflakes for his rider to remain cool. "Thanks Frostbite," he said as the unicorn hid his horn.

Aramis never tired of the way Nathan could change any situation into something better. He looked at his mate with a bemused smile on his face. "Careful Nathan, if everyone else finds out you can use your powers to cool down on a hot day there going to get awfully jealous."

Nathan giggled. "You're just saying that so you can have your own personal snow day," he said with a chuckle as Frostbite trotted up closer to the anthro stallion and kissed Aramis. "Or, are you afraid someone will steal my heart away from you?" He asked with a smirk.

The knight just rolled his eyes. "Not going to happen dragon man. You're stuck with this old stallion for better or worse."

"And that's just what I'm hoping for," he said smiling when he looked off in the distance and he saw something vast, blue, and even flat. "What's that up ahead?" he asked.

"That's the ocean of Europa. It's the largest body of water in our world. Wait, don't tell me you've never seen an ocean?"

Nathan shook his head. "What's an ocean?" he asked, "Is it a good water source?"

Aramis chuckled then said, "It is for many things but drinking would not be one of them. It's used mostly to transport goods and people all over the continent. You'll see when we get closer."

"Is it good for swimming?" asked Nathan, "It looks so refreshing." Frostbite looked back at Nathan with a raised brow and then at Aramis' steed, Baylor. He gave his stallion brother an expression that said Is this guy for real?

Well, it's not good for drinking due to it being very salty. It can be refreshing to swim and play in it on a hot day as long as you are a good swimmer.

"I... I never swam a day in my life," said Nathan blushing, "Do you think you can teach me?"

"You're telling me you've never been in water other than to take a bath?"

"I was stuck in a filthy orphanage, remember?" asked Nathan as they all stopped to rest a while and Nathan slid off Frostbite's back and he groaned as he straightened out his bow-legged posture.

Aramis let out a small chuckle. "When we get to the city we'll pack a lunch and go on a picnic to the beach. I'll show you how to swim then, ok? Wait. You do know what a picnic is right?"

Nathan was going to speak but then he shook his head no. Frostbite looked at him and then at Baylor, and back at Aramis with a raised eyebrow.

"By the moons of Cillius Nathan. What have you done or been in your life." The large equine scooped the dragon up into his arms. Pressing the smaller anthro to his chest and in a small voice, "Don't worry my little Prince. When we're done with all this drama, I'll show you the world." The knight leans in and gives the dragon a sensual kiss.

The dragon smiled and kissed Aramis in return. "I can hardly wait to see it all with you," he said softly tilting his head to deepen their kiss.

As they embraced, two wet muzzles pushed between them slathering both of them with spit. "Ye gods" yelled out the knight. Laughter rang out behind them. "Well now, isn't this a lovely sight to behold. Two lovebirds and their horsy paramours."

Nathan smiled as he looked out over the water. "It looks so big," he said, feeling awestruck at the vast body of water, "Do you think there are any other beings who live within it?"

"All sorts of creatures of myth live there," said Finn. Fish as big as a house. Some that live so far down in the darkness that they light up so they can see around themselves. Some that have multiple arms and can wrap themselves around a boat and sink it."

"But the most amazing creatures are the Mermen who live in an underwater city. Half man, half fish. I hear they can transform themselves and walk on land." They come out at night and kidnap young men only to take them into the sea and transform them into mermen."

"Is that what really happens to them?" asked Nathan, "If they seek out young men, then they must be very lonely down there."

Finn retorted. "That's what I hear. Now if you all are done resting the rest of us would like to get to the city before dark. There's a certain redhead that I plan on seeing. Plus the inn's serve the most amazing food in all of the seven kingdoms."

"Red head?" asked Nathan and he looked at Aramis confused, "What's he talking about?"

In Azure City, within a grand manor that lay in the heart of the city, a young bat was speaking to two figures in a parlor. One was a green eastern dragoness with a red kimono and the other was a bronze dragon with gray hair, silver horns, and a golden suit and robe. "Oh yes," said the bat, "I remember so well. Uncle Luigi was from Disna. Uncle Boris from Historia. And every spring-" "We would take picnics on the shore on Sunday," interrupted the bronze dragon and sighed, "Haven't you anything better to do?" The dragoness stammered and ushered the bat out of the room bidding him farewell as the bat burst into tears. "No more," muttered the bronze dragon. "Oh, dear," sighed the dragoness as she brought in a silver tray with tea and two tea cups. "I am so sorry," she said, "I thought that one was surely real. Well, I mean he was flesh and blood but not that real. But we won't be fooled next time. I'm going to think of really harder questions." She was pouring some tea into one of the cups when the dragon stood up. "No," he said firmly, startling the dragoness, "My heart can't take it anymore. I'll see no more boys claiming to be my grandson." He turned to a picture with a pale white human and a golden dragoness holding a baby blue dragon in her arms. He took the frame in his hands and turned it face down.

The caravan continued towards its destination. The city grew slowly into view as they stopped at the top of a hill. "There it is Nathan. Azure City, the hoarde of a jewel thief." Others from behind them walked up and for many of them their first time seeing the breathtaking image of the city.

The entire city itself was glittering and it appeared to be made entirely out of blue sapphires and other sparkling gemstones. "It's so beautiful," said Nathan as he looked at the great city before them, "And my grandfather is the emperor that rules this place?"

Aramis looked at the dragon. Assuming he truly is your grandfather then yes. This and all of the lands of Polaris. It's considered the power and culture center of the whole continent.

Nathan smiled and looked at Aramis. "Well, come on," he said excitedly, "What're we waiting for?"

Watching his petulant partner move down the road the horse raised his left arm. "Wagon's, Ho!" As he and the rest of the caravan move towards the city. He wasn't too concerned with Nathan moving farther away from the group. They had just past Biermen's point so they were now within the jurisdiction and protection of the city. He looked up just as a hawk flew from the top of the cliff towards the city. No doubt it contained a message to the royal guard telling them they would be arriving at the city within the hour.

When they all arrived at the city, they were met by a tall wall that surrounded the entire city and at the gate, there was a single bell rope. Nathan got off his mount, walked over and pulled it. A bell sounded and from a small hole in the door, out popped a gopher. "Who rang that bell?" he barked. "I did," said Nathan. "Can't you read?" asked the gopher. "Read what?" asked Finn as he came up. "The notice," replied the gopher. Finn, Nathan, and the two screecats looked at each other confused. "What notice?" asked Nathan. "It's on the door! It's as plain as the nose on my... " But the gopher looked down and groaned, "One moment." He went back down and when he came back, he placed a notice on the door and he closed his hole. The notice said, "Bell out of order. Please knock." Nathan saw a door knocker and knocked. The gopher came back. "Well, that's more like it," he said, "Now, state your business."

It was at that moment Aramis arrived at the gate. The guard took one look at the knight and a bell sounded somewhere above the gate. A hidden door opened from the side of the wall. Multiple guards bearing swords created a half circle around them. A moment later a large polar bear pushed through the line to see what all the commotion was about. "What in blazes is going on here." The bear looked up and eyeing Aramis astride Baylor, his eyes grew large with awe. "Ssssir Aramis, it's you!

"Wait a minute," said Nathan looking between the polar bear and Aramis, "You know this guy too? Aramis, are there any other friends you haven't told me about yet?"

He looked at his mate, enjoying the shocked look that appeared across his face. "Him and few others in the city." "Koto my friend. It's so good to see you again. It seems fate has dealt with you well? The ursine walked up and reached up with his hand, giving the knight a welcoming handshake. "Very well my Lord, very well. Koto looked past his friend and finally noticed the long line of horses, people and wagons. "What business had brought you here to the capital?" The equine dismounted, standing next to the bear. "I'm here on urgent business with the Emperor. It's imperative that I see him right away. "I see." The bear yelled out to the gopher. "Open the gates and let them in, Stuart. By order of the Royal General." Slowly the massive iron gates swung slowly open.

Nathan looked inside and gasped at the many blue gems sparkling in the sunlight and many people walking down clean streets and sidewalks with lamp posts and the buildings were tall and glittering.

Aramis let out a laugh. "Come on, love. It's time for your grand appearance. The equine placed his arm around the dragon's waist and pulled him forward and into the city.

"I've never seen any place like this in my entire life," said Nathan as he felt tears in his eyes. Two Fang and his mate looked around and they too were amazed at this grand place. Everyone entered and they all marveled at the majesty, color, and beauty that Azure City had to offer.

As the two followed the bear through the city to the castle, many citizens watched in amazement as the line of humans, anthros and ferals filtered past. The knight looked down at the two cats. "You two, be on your best behavior. You represent our pride and our dignity."

Two Fang nodded. He noticed his mate was looking nervous but he nuzzled her to calm her. They walked alongside their masters and at the center of the city, there was the Emperor's citadel. It had a broad dome in the center with a point on the top and the roof was made entirely out of diamonds and sapphires. And the sides expanded to a few other towers but it was nothing compared to the beautiful garden that surrounded the building with many fruit trees, flower beds, ponds, and even smaller animals like rabbits, squirrels and even a fox or two. "Two Fang, don't even think about it," whispered Nathan and the feline grunted knowing that he wanted to have a snack, but his master's wishes came first.

Aramis gave his mate a smile as he put the two cats in their place. They arrived at the inner gates of the palace. Sounds of horns could be heard across the grounds as the gleaming wood doors opened. "Sir Knight. Who will be accompanying you to the Grand Throne room?" Aramis turned to look back at his friends. Returning his gaze to the bear. "This young man, my steeds, the two Screecats, my brother and my friends as he pointed to the bull, the stag, the winged and the feral dragon. "As you wish sir knight. I'll assist in finding accommodations and food for the others."

Just then, an eastern dragoness in a green kimono glided through the door and landed next to the bear. "General, I thought I said no more candidates claiming to be the prince," she scolded but then she saw Aramis and crossed her arms, "Oh, look what the cat dragged in."

The knight let out an audible groan. Showing the look of absolute irritation he finally uttered. "Lady Farsis. So good to see you again." Even the others all picked up on the pained expression in their Lord's voice.

"If I recall correctly, didn't my uncle banish you from this city?" she snipped and then eyed Nathan with a raised eyebrow. "You look familiar," she said as she walked over and looked him over and gasped at the sight of his snowflake necklace, "Where did you get that?"

The dragoness reached for the necklace around Nathan's neck when a strong hand grabbed her wrist. With a stern face, Aramis spoke. "I don't think you want to do that." He said as he continued to give the Lady a severe look. "And if I remember correctly he rescinded that order after me and my fellow nights cleared the northern lands of Exorto's goons." His stare never wavered and with a strong steady voice said, "Now if you will inform the Emperor that I am here, the quicker we can commence with our business." Releasing his grip from her wrist.

"I'm afraid I can't do that. The boy will have to come in with me to answer some questions," she said, "You see, many con artists have been trying to see my uncle for years and all have failed. And if your friend passes every question, then I'll see what I can do."

"Fine." the knight looked at Nathan. "Let's go," he said as he took the young dragons hand and began to walk away back to the entrance of the palace.

Nathan sighed and nodded as he followed after the dragoness and Aramis.

"Wait!" I meant all of our friends are to accompany us into the throne room. "Aramis, it's ok, we can all wait here." Finn spoke up. His brother looked out at the others. "No. You have all risked your lives so we could be here. You have just as much a right to see the Emperor as Nathan and I do." He again looked at the dragoness. "Well?"

"I'm sorry, but my uncle's the emperor and he's been heartbroken too many times... and losing my cousin, Luna was his greatest blow," she said sadly, "My best friend."

"And I'll say it again. We all go in or none us go in." By this time the large equine eyes showed an intensity that did not go unnoticed by everyone in the room.

"He has to answer the questions or else no one goes in," said Lady Farsis. "I'll do it!" piped Nathan when his ice blasted both Aramis and the dragoness away from each other. Farsis gasped. "Only one person alive has that type of power," she said looking at Aramis and then cupped her mouth as tears came to her eyes as she hugged Nathan.

Aramis was caught off guard by his mate's outburst. Recovering he walked over and embraced him. Just then the doors to the palace burst open as a large bronze colored dragon entered the courtyard. Suddenly a booming voice rang out, "What is going on out here? Lady Farsis. Explain yourself!" Without hesitation, Aramis and the rest of the group bowed their heads deeply. All except Nathan who stood there until a strong hand on his back pushed him forward into a half bow.

"Uncle... May I present your real nephew," she said as she tried to step off to the side without sliding on the ice. Nathan slowly came up and he looked up at the older dragon, who's face looked tired and it seemed all the happiness had been drained out of him.

The elder dragon gazed upon the small male. Haltingly he stepped closer. Noticing the necklace that hung around his neck as his eyes widened. He reached down with his long slender fingers as he ran them across the surface of the metal and gems. His tall body bent down to take in the scent of the blue dragon. Letting out a gasp, the royal pulled Nathan close to his robes. Looking up, his golden eyes brimming with tears. "This cannot be. How long have I searched for my grandson. And here he stands before me. Praise the great Dragon Ionia. My prayers have been answered." Everyone present yelled out in happiness. Even old Boris let out a stream of flames that reached into the sky followed by an ear deafening roar.

Aramis stood there, watching the long lost Grandfather and Grandson be reunited. A strong hand grasped his shoulder. Looking, the shining face of his brother giving him a look of pride and love. The equine's vision became blurry until he realized he too was shedding tears of joy.