Aramis and the Snow Prince - Chapter One

Story by jackdog on SoFurry

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#1 of Aramis and the Snow Prince

Chapter One from a RP that I did with Nate the Great


This story contains scenes of adult sexual content. It is not meant for anyone under the age of 18. Otherwise proceed and enjoy

PROLOGUE

Long ago a grand party was being held at the palace where the Dracos (the royal family of dragons) were celebrating the birth of Nathan and all were invited and no one was more happier than Luna, the Draco princess and she danced with her human lover, Jack Frost. The golden dragoness held up her son to his father and Jack Frost smiled. "He looks just like you," he said kissing her cheek and kissing his son's forehead. "I wish you wouldn't go so soon," Luna said, as Jack Frost knew he had to go for autumn was coming to a close and the Snow King had to bring the first snowfall. So, Jack Frost gave Luna a special gift that would make the separation easier for both of them. It was a snowflake necklace and Luna smiled as she kissed her husband.

"It's beautiful," the golden dragoness said smiling as she wore a beautiful white gown and a diamond tiara. "Read what the necklace says," the human said to his beloved and she read the snowflake, which said, "Together in Azure City". "Really?" Luna said excitedly as she knew that she and Nathan would be with Jack Frost forever. But they would not be together long, for a dark shadow had descended upon the house of the Dracos. He was a black serpent named Exortos. They all thought he was a wise man, but he was a fake, power mad and dangerous. "How dare you return to the palace," Jack Frost said. "But... I'm your loyal servant," Exortos protested. "Loyal? HA!" Laughed the white human, "You are a traitor. Get out!" By then, Exortos was getting angry. "You think you can banish the great Exortos?" he roared, "By the evil powers vested in me, I banish YOU with a CURSE!" Everyone gasped as Jack Frost held Luna and their son protectively. "Mark my words, Princess Luna, you, your son and your people will die within a fortnight! I WILL NOT REST UNTIL I SEE THE END OF THE DRACO LINE FOREVER!!" And with that, he burst into a pillar of flame and vanished without a trace.

Consumed by his hatred for Jack Frost and the dragons, Exortos created a magic wand that would turn his victims to stone and he made a pact with several hideous creatures and monsters promising them revenge on the ones who had imprisoned them: the dragons. "Come, my minions," the black serpent hissed, "Fulfill my prophecy. Seal the fate of the Dracos and their people once and for all!" And from that moment on, the small band of monsters had grown into an army that pillaged every village filled with dragons and slaughtering innocents within their path and until at last, they came to the palace of the Dracos.

The dragons were now at war with Exortos and his monsters. Jack Frost was providing extra protection for Luna and their son. Luna and the child had made their escape. But, yet, Exortos and his monsters ran after her. She ran until she made it to the highest mountains. She was trapped and there was nowhere to go. But, she had to stay strong to protect her child at all costs." Luna was at the peak of a mountain.

It was then that Luna had to teleport her only son to another part of the forest to save him. "Nathan," she said taking her necklace off and putting it in with the baby's blanket, "Mommy loves you." It was then that Exortos himself came up in his serpent form and just as he was at the foot of the hill, Jack Frost tackled him down to the ground. Luna said her enchantment just in time and in a flash of light, her son was gone. She turned around just in time to see Jack get flung into the air and then get sucked up into a mirror by a headhunter named Langwidawn. The serpent looked up at the dragoness and then lunged with his mouth open and the next thing Jack Frost saw trickling down in the snow was blood. "LUNAAAA!!!!" he screamed from inside the mirror. So many lives were destroyed that day. What had always been was now gone forever. And the Draco prince Nathan, the only heir to Jack Frost, was nowhere to be found.

26 years later.

CURRENT DAY

Nathan had grown up and he was just coming out of an orphanage and the headmaster, a pot-bellied boar, was giving him directions to where Nathan was supposed to go. "I've got you a job in the fish market," the work master said, "You go straight down this path till you come to a fork in the road. Go left... Are you listening?" Nathan was waving at the kids and then turned to the boar, "I'm listening sir." The old pig huffed and grabbed his shirt and started dragging him to the gate. "You've been a thorn in my side ever since you've been brought here," the old man growled and said, "And you've been acting like the king of Spain instead of the nameless, no-account you are. And also nearly freezing me to death with your constant ice magic." Nathan managed to get free of the man's grip without him knowing as the old headmaster continued.

"For the past 26 years, I fed you, I clothed you, I..." "Kept a roof over my head," Nathan finished making the headmaster gasp and turn around. "How is it you don't have a clue as to who you were before you came to us, but you can remember what I've told you?" he growled. "Well I do have a clue," Nathan said holding up his necklace but the headmaster rolled his eyes. "I know," he said and read the necklace saying, "'Together in Azure City'. So you want to go to the north to find your family?" Nathan nodded but then the old man laughed but then scowled. "Nathan, it's time you took your place in life," he said pushing him out, "In life and in line, and be grateful too." And with that, the work master slammed the door laughing.

Nathan scowled at the man and once he was far away. "Be grateful, Nathan," the young dragon said mimicking the headmaster, "I am grateful... Grateful to get away!" Then he came to the fork. "'Go left' he says," Nathan said rolling his eyes, "Well, I know what's to the left. I'll be Nathan the orphan forever... But if I go right, maybe I can find..." He paused and looked at his snowflake necklace. "Whoever gave me this necklace must have loved me," he thought and then he sighed," This is crazy. Me? Go to the north?" Then he looked up to the sky and shouted, "Send me a sign! A hint! Anything!"

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CHAPTER ONE - A FATED MEETING

Save for the sounds of birds chirping, the forest was eerily quiet. The noises of horses hooves plodding along the dirt path and the jangle of metal broke the silence.

The horse was massive, no doubt due to its Shire heritage. Its rider was less so but still an impressive sight. Dappled sunlight played upon their forms as they moved slowly through the forest. The horse suddenly stopped. Raising its head and sniffing the air. "What is it Bay?" its rider said. Slowly looking around, the rider grasped the hilt of his sword. "You there, what are you doing?"

Nathan looked up. Words failed him as he gazed at the tall figure before him. Whoa he thought, Someone's been drinking their milk. It took him a few moments to regain his composure. Speaking he said, "I'm just waiting for a sign."

The rider sat there on his mount, sizing up the image of the male dragon. He didn't look like a threat. But years of experience told him that appearances can be deceiving.

In a deep timbre voice, "Now what's a young dragon doing in the middle of a forest? And what's this sign you're talking about?"

"I'm talking about which way to go and- What're you looking at?" asked Nathan as he felt slightly uncomfortable and he held his necklace close, "Are you a thief? This is my necklace and I'm not afraid to fight for it." He was so busy trying to protect his own belongings, he didn't realize that he was stepping onto the road. If it was the sign he was looking for or not, this was his chance to show this stallion not to underestimate the little guy.

A deep robust laugh came from the knight. "Settle down there my young friend. There's no need for violence." In one fluid movement, the paladin swung his leg over the saddle and landed on the ground with a hard thump.

He boldly walked up to the shorter male. He stuck his chain mailed hand out. "My name is Aramis, and who may I ask is your name?" A moment passed, "It's Nathan," said the young dragon rather nervously as he tried to contain himself. He reached out and shook the offered hand. Unfortunately, it was at that moment that some ice froze the glove and Nathan released it quickly. "Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry!" He gasped as he tried to absorb the ice out of the metal.

Aramis stepped back in alarm. "By the gods of Terra!" The knight drew his sword without hesitation. Aimed directly at the dragon, it's point in line with the dragon's chest. "What manner of black magic do I see here?

Nathan gulped and tried to back away from the sword. "It was an accident," he said timidly, and with every step he took, ice began to spread from his feet. "I didn't mean to freeze your glove," he continued, "And what happened to the 'No need for violence' talk?" He kept backing up until he fell over a tree root and as he fell, snow shot from his hands and it froze a tree branch. And another blast came out as he hit the ground and this time, a snowball started bouncing around all over the place until it made a direct hit into the stallion's forehead.

The knight stood there in silence, his mouth agape, eyes wide with wonder. He turned his head to look at his mount. The horse looked back at him with a look that said, "I haven't a clue boss."

Sudden laughter rang out through the forest. Aramis had dropped his sword, bent over with his hands on his thighs." He stood there, hunched over. Tears were streaming down his face as continued laughter kept him from standing up. Looking up and seeing the sight of the dragon lying flat on his butt. He rubbed his forelock with his hand, trying to work out the cold that had permeated his head.

Gaining his composure he bent down and picked up his sword and hilted it. He walked over to where Nathan was. His hands on his hips, "Well, I'm not sure what kind of magic you possess kid. But I've got to say, that's one helluva way to show it. He reached down to offer his hand to the dragon. "I was born with this ability," said Nathan, feeling offended that someone thought that his accidents were funny. He could remember all the times when he did think his magic was funny until he was given a beating from the headmaster at the orphanage.

He sighed and accepted the horse's hand, not freezing it this time, but as he stood up, he flinched and held his right leg. "I think I sprained my ankle," he winced.

"I'm not surprised, you took a pretty good spill," said the knight. "I've got some medicinal balms in my saddle bag.

Aramis swept the dragon up under his massive arm and carried him over to where his mount was standing. The Shire leaned his massive head forward and with his muzzle took in several deep sniffs of Nathan's face. Nathan sat down as he watched the anthro stallion approach his feral mount. "Does he have a name?" He asked as the knight returned with balms, "And also, what's with the sniffing? Is he part bloodhound or something?" Aramis let out a hearty laugh. "Be respectful boy, if Baylor didn't like you he'd more and likely would have taken a big bite out of your hide." The knight put the dragon down, allowing him to use the stirrup to keep his balance. "I know it's somewhere in here," as the equine rifled through one of his packs. "Ah, here it is." pulling out a glass vile of milky white liquid. He shook out some of it's content into a rag, soaking it. Resealing the bottle he began to wrap the cloth around Nathan's ankle then tying it into a knot. "I won't lie, this stuff will sting like hell but at least it will quickly heal the sprain."

"What makes you think it'll hur- YEOW!" gasped Nathan as he felt a surging pain from the liquid and his ankle began to realign itself into its proper place. "Baylor... That's a nice name," he said as he held out a hand for the shire and smiled as it was accepted, gently stroking the feral's ears and long face. "Well, aren't you sweet as well as handsome," cooed the dragon as he could see the mount was loving this much attention.

Aramis stood back, watching the interaction with his steed and the male. He smiled as they both enjoyed one another. Finally, "Well what do you think Bay, can we trust this dragon or not?" The Shire let out a loud whinny while shaking his head up and down in an affirmative action. "Well kid, it looks like you passed Baylor's sniff test," chuckling as he spoke.

With his legs splayed and his hands on his hips, "So my young friend, what's your story and how did you end up out here in the forest all alone?"

"Well... Seeing as that I'm on the northern trail, I'm trying to get to Azure City," he said as he looked at his snowflake necklace, "You see, I'm trying to find the people who gave this to me. There's some words on here that say 'Together in Azure City'. I can only guess it means I have family up there in Azure City... whoever they are."

The look on Aramis's face turned somewhat solemn. "Don't you know?"

"Well... this is gonna sound crazy... I don't know who my family is," said Nathan, "I was just kicked out of the orphanage only hours ago. I don't even remember who my own parents were. But I do have one clue though, and that is Azure City." The words spoken by the dragon shook the horse to its core. Thinking back to how his life had been and what it became he felt emotions that he had not felt in many years. With a serious look and tone to his voice Aramis said, "How much thought did you put into this journey of yours? Do you know how much danger and challenges lie ahead of you?"

"Yes," said Nathan bravely, "I have given it thought and my mind is made up. Also, I have magic remember? You saw and felt how I can handle my powers, didn't you?" He then turned towards a tree, thrusted both hands forward and snow blasted out of his hand coating the trunk in solid ice.

Aramis scratched at his chin beard, "Not bad kid, but do you think that trick is going to overcome a pack of hungry screecats that move like lightning and can see in the dark? Or how about a massive tree bear that stands ten feet tall and weighs over a thousand pounds. And don't even get me started on feral dragons that sprew fire that can burn down a forest. Did you give any of that a thought before you left home?"

The paladin wasn't trying to scare the young dragon. He only wanted him to think long and hard before he could get hurt.

"I told you my mind is made up," said Nathan firmly, "And furthermore, that orphanage was never my home. And I can easily fly. I have wings. I can outfly any of them any day." He was shaking as he tried to keep himself from breaking out into tears. "You don't even know what I've been through in that place," he said with a choked sob as snow began to fall on him, "Or how much pain they caused me." The sight of the dragon crying and spilling his guts out to the equine made Aramis rethink his approach. He could see he was determined to complete his journey to the city. Getting there was one thing, but once there, someone like him could easily fall prey to the con artists, swindlers, pimps and other assorted scum that littered the city.

The knight put his hand on his shoulder, "Hey Nathan, I didn't mean to try and keep you from going to the Azure city. I just wanted you to be aware of the risks that journey might entail." Even Baylor sidled up to the dragon and was wuffling his muzzle through his long hair.

Aramis spoke again, "Son, how much do you know about the city?"

"I don't know," he sniffled, "Only that it's said to be the most beautiful place on earth but it's a long journey to get there. They say that the entire city is made out of blue gemstones and sapphires. And it's ruled by a wise Dragon Emperor."

Aramis took in a deep breath. "Aye, it's all that and more. There is no city more beautiful than in all the known world. But even with all that there is still a part that is fraught with danger, and if you're not prepared for it, it could gobble you up and spit you out, leaving nothing but bones."

By this time he had both his hands on his shoulders, looking down at the dragon with an intense gaze. His green eyes showing a deep caring and compassion for Nathan. "So, with all that I told you, I think the prudent thing to do is turn around and go back to where you came from."

Nathan brushed the hands off his shoulders backing away. "No! I'm going to the city whether anyone tells me to go or not," he said, "Besides, I have nowhere else to go. Would you have me go back to a place that would throw me out again and have me live on the streets?"

At this point Aramis looks at Baylor and says, "Well Bay, what do you think. Do we accompany this lad to the jeweled city?" The Shire looks at Nathan and then his partner. A huge neigh erupts from the horse. A look of total exasperation shows in the knight's face. He turns to face the dragon. "Well if Baylor thinks we should take you there then the issue is closed.

The dragon smiled and he hugged Baylor's neck. "Thanks," he said softly into the feral steed's ear. He turned to Aramis. "Agreed, and do you know if there's anything to eat? I haven't eaten for more than two weeks," he said as his stomach growled.

"Two weeks!" the knight blurted out. "I've heard you lizards can go long periods between meals but that's just crazy". Aramis walked over to fetch something out of his saddle bags. Out came some large pieces of dried beef. He turned and tossed them to the male. Then handing Baylor a carrot "This ought to get you through until we get to the next village. There we can all get a proper meal, a nice hot bath and a good night's rest.

Nathan took the food and nearly devoured it in seconds. It was a sign that the poor dragon really was malnourished and he felt the feral shire nuzzle him as if to show sympathy. "Thank you," he said after eating, "This is better than what they used to serve at the orphanage."

Aramis felt a twinge of sympathy. He was all too familiar with growing up, not knowing where his next meal was coming from. He cleared his throat. "Well then, how's the leg feeling?" The blue dragon stood up and tested it. "It... it's cured... just as good as new," said Nathan looking to the knight, "Where'd you get those herbs?"

Aramis smiled. "I'd tell you but then I'd have to kill you". Just to play it safe I'll have you ride atop Baylor, at least until we stop for the night."

Without warning, he grabbed Nathan by his waist and hoisted him up into the saddle. Baylor turned his head and shaking it let out a sound that sounded like a laugh.

"YIKES!" gasped Nathan as he was hoisted up and set upon Baylor's saddle. Knowing that there was nothing to fear, he leaned forward to stroke the side of the shire's neck.

"Ok then. I guess it's off to Azure City." Aramis began to walk away. Without looking back he yelled back, "You do know how to ride a horse don't ya". A bit of laughter rang in his voice.

"This would be my first time," said Nathan, "Actually, this is my first time going anywhere." He looked down at his hands feeling embarrassed thinking that Aramis was probably the most insensitive person he had ever met, but he did help cure his ankle. So, that must mean there is some good in him.

"Don't worry about it newbie. Baylor knows the way to the city. Just hold on and try not to fall off." Laughter rang out into the forest as the three of them began their journey together.

Nathan did hold on but he threw a snowball at Aramis' head when he was called 'newbie'. "I have a name, you know?" The knight stopped dead in his tracks. Slowly, he turned around to face his mount and the current irritation that was currently sitting astride it. He stood there, feeling pieces of ice slide down his mane as it melted against his pelt.

Making things worse was the look Baylor was giving him. If horses could smile then the look coming from him told him how humorous he thought the whole thing was. "So you think that was funny do you?" Aramis spoke in a deep, slow, tone. "You won't find it so funny when I sell your sorry ass to the glue factory." He then looked at Nathan and continued, "And you. It would be wise to tread carefully. I'm a fairly forgiving person, but there are limits to my generosity." With that said, the knight turned and continued to walk down the path.

Nathan said nothing and leaned into Baylor's ear. "Don't listen to him," he said, "I wouldn't sell you for anything. You're the most noble steed there is compared to that old jackass up front." He patted the shire's neck and smiled. And for a moment, he thought he heard Baylor snort in a way that sounded like a chuckle

Hours past as the odd trio trekked along the dusty road. It had been awhile since Aramis had walked this much. He was actually enjoying the experience. Being late spring, the sky was blue and the temperature was pleasant. The pastoral scenery had put him in a happy mood. He leaned his head back, eyes closed and breathed in the heddy smell of nature. Memories of his childhood flashed as he walked. Scenes of when he was a young boy on his parents farm, far to the north in the Provence of Acadia.

The blue dragon's ankle had healed up, but he was still adjusting to the warm temperatures. It wasn't long till something in the trees caught his eye. Beyond them was a grand palace that had its windows bordered up and not a soul was to be seen. Spreading his wings, Nathan flew over the fence and landed at the front door. Nathan was looking through one of the boards that had been put up over the entrance to the manor.. He yanked on it till it came loose and fell backwards in the process. "Hello? Anybody home?" called Nathan as he walked through the corridors. There was dust everywhere as the young dragon walked on through the deserted rooms. In one room, Nathan saw a plate on a table and blew some dust off it. It appeared to be made of gold. As he picked it up to examine it, a flash of a memory crossed his mine. Nathan shook his head and put the plate back where he found it. As he kept walking deeper into the room, he had a strange feeling that he had been there before. "This place... it's like a memory from a dream," he said and then he entered a great ballroom where a portrait of a human dressed in white and a golden dragoness with a snowflake necklace similar to Nathan's. And in her arms, was a baby dragon.

Aramis found himself wrapped up in his thoughts. So much so that he didn't realize his mount and the pesky lizard were no longer behind him until he heard Baylor let out a whinny. He turned to see the horse standing there next to an ivy covered wall, the dragon nowhere in sight. "By the holy gods of Freias" He quickly covered the ground to where the horse was standing. "Baylor! Where the hell is he?" The horse responded by pointing his head at the iron gates. "He went in there? How did h..... " stopping in mid sentence remembering he had wings.

With a look of disgust on his face, he turned, pulling his sword from its sheath. Walking to the closed gates and with a quick swift movement shoved the tip into the lock. Turning it, the lock broke and the barrier pushed inward allowing the knight access to the estate.

Meanwhile Nathan was so entranced with the room he was in that he started to have visions of people dancing and the sound of laughter and music. "Why does this... feel so familiar?" he thought to himself. He was just on his way out when he stopped in front of a room that looked like a small nursery. Nathan looked around and he saw a cradle in the corner. He reached inside it and felt the soft blanket, which lay within. Then his mind wandered back to the image of a dragoness humming to her child while rocking him in her arms. The thought of it made Nathan sad and tears rolled down his face. "Mom," he thought softly and sniffled mournfully.

Aramis walked with caution across the decaying grounds of the estate. His senses were on alert as he approached the steps to the doors of the mansion. Sword in hand, he cautiously stepped up and moved inside. Taking a moment to let his eyes adjust to the gloom he stood in, looking around and making an assessment of his surroundings before proceeding deeper into the room. As his sight sharpened, he let out a small gasp at the massive grandeur before him. Even in its current condition he knew whoever lived here must have been very wealthy or very prominent. He continued to move farther into the house, staying alert to any dangers that could befall him.

The knight moved from room to room until he found himself in what looked to be a huge reception or banquet hall. Hanging at one end of the room was an immense portrait. It hung above a raised diasis. He moved closer to inspect the painting. As he came nearer, his muzzle fell open and his eyes grew wide with awe. He stood there for what seemed an eternity but had only been moments. Finally, a noise broke the silence in the room. It sounded like soft crying emanating from behind a wall. His eyes narrowed, ears perked forward, trying to find the noise of the disturbance. "Nathan! cried out the horse.

The dragon looked up, still feeling heart broken from this realization. Overcome with this sudden grief, the entire room was starting to get cold and frost spread from where he stood to all along the walls.

Moving briskly, Aramis left the room via a doorway. It led to a long corridor with multiple door lining both sides. He continued to call the dragons name as he moved from door to door. Just before he came to a turn in the hallway he felt cold coming from a door to his right. He stood, staring at it. He watched as ice slowly began to spread from the keylock. Within seconds the door was completely encased in glittery ice.

He grabbed the handle. Even with his immense strength, he couldn't get it to turn. The ice had frozen it solid. He pushed his immense weight against it and still it wouldn't budge. Stepping back a few feet, taking in a large breath he threw himself against the barrier. Wood and ice exploded as he smashed through the opening and into the room beyond.

Sliding to a stop he raised his head and body. The sight before him was dazzling. The whole room and it's contents were encased in a sheet of white snow and ice. Multiple stalactites hung from the ceiling. His body was already feeling the effects of the biting cold. Hearing a movement from behind, he turned and looking down there was Nathan, his body rolled up tight into a ball. His wings, horns and face dusted with frost. "Nathan" said the horse.

The dragon looked up and surprisingly, the only thing that wasn't covered in ice was the blanket he had found earlier. "I... I think I came from here... I remember someone singing to me in this very room... a long time ago," he said as tears were streaming down his face.

The stallion looked perplexed at the sight of the male draped in a woolen blanket pulled tightly over his form. The paladin's fierce features soften at the sight.

Kneeling down, Aramis swept the young dragon up into his immense arms. Speaking softly in his ear, "Let's get you out of here." Leaving the room, they made their way out of the palace and back into the sunlit grounds. Baylor was there to greet them, wickering a greeting.

The horse sat him down with care onto the weeded grass. Allowing the sun to warm them both. He stood like a beacon, fiercely watching over the dragon as he recovered from his brush with danger.

"I'm sorry," he said at last looking up at Aramis, "I never should've gone in there." He was already thawed out, but still he held the blanket close to him. "Have you ever been to this place before?" he asked looking up at the knight, "Do you have any memories of your biological family?"

The dragon's question hit a sore spot in his heart. He had never ever shared his past with anyone but Baylor. Brushing off that question, he responded, "I've traveled this road many time and yes, I've seen the estate. As far as I remember, it has always been empty and shuttered.

"More importantly, I saw the portrait hanging in that room. Nathan, do you have any idea of who they were?" Aramis asked in a way that told you he already knew the answer.

"I can only assume they're my parents," said Nathan, "I saw the necklace the dragoness in the painting was wearing. And I saw the inscription it had: 'Together in Azure City'. And I think the infant in that painting was me."

It all began to make sense to the paladin. The unwavering desire to go to Azure, the ability to make snow and ice. The necklace he wore matched perfectly to the one in the painting. It also explained why he was small for a dragon if one of his parents were human. He looked at Nathan with calm caring eyes. Clearing his throat, Aramis spoke, "Son, I think it's time for you to know where you came from and who your parents where." He took a pause. And with a very serious look on his face said, "But once you know, you may have well put yourself and anyone around you in grave danger."

Nathan looked up at the anthro with surprise. "You mean... After all the things I said... you're still going to help me?" he asked softly, "I... I don't know what to say."

"Nathan! Have you even listened to what I just said." Aramis was beginning to feel dread in the way the dragon was reacting. He moved over to a barren tree stump and sat down. Taking in a deep breath, "I don't think you realize the situation you're in. This idea to find out who your are could possible be the end of you. There are some very nasty people out there. If they found out you even existed would mean the loss of many lives.

"I know... All the more reason I should get to Azure City safely," said Nathan, "Will you and Baylor help me?"

His response was not what he wanted to hear. Aramis sat there, hunched over with his forearms on his thighs, feeling completely exacerbated. "Listen kid. You're asking Baylor and me to risk our lives and possibly die just so you can have a feel good moment with a possible family member?"

The horse continued, "And just to be clear. How are your planning to pay for the cost of this little expedition? The food, the lodging, Baylor's care. Not to mention, my services as your protector. None of that is free you know."

Aramis by this time had worked himself into a bit of a state. He sat there staring at the dragon with frustration.

"I see," said Nathan looking disappointed, "So what you're saying is you don't care what happens to me unless you get paid, is that it? Fine! Be a money pincher!" He got up and continued on foot down the path.

Elsewhere, in a dark castle in the mountains, a dalmatian in a long magenta robe was lounging on a couch playing his mandolin. He looked up and around him as he smiled at the many mirrors covering the walls, ceiling and floor. "This head of the dalmatian is quite attractive," he said to himself, "I must wear it more often than I have done of late, although it may not be the best in my collection." Just then, an image appeared in one of his mirrors. He saw what looked like two horses (one feral and one anthro) and a blue dragon. "I saw the portrait hanging in that room. Nathan, do you have any idea of who they were?" asked the anthro horse. "I can only assume they're my parents," said the young dragon as he revealed his snowflake necklace to the wolf and the image faded. "Nathan?" said the dalmatian in his chair, "Uhh, just one problem there, buddy: Nathan's dead. All the Dracos are dead. I mean, there's no possible way that kid could be Prince Nathan-"

THUMP!

The dalmatian jumped and looked at another mirror and saw the shimmering white silhouette of a human with snow white skin, white flowing robes, and a crystal crown. The human appeared to be moving along the sides of the mirror but whenever he got near the glass, his whole self would ripple. "Jack Frost," said the dalmatian as he calmed down and picked up his instrument, "Nobody's going to help you. Nobody knows where you are." Then the dalmatian strummed a note on his instrument as he added, "There's nobody left who even remembers who you are." The dalmatian was about to continue playing when he paused for a moment. "Wait... if the Snow King has shown himself after all these years then that must mean... Nathan is alive?" he thought and looked at the image of the blue dragon again and gasped, "And that's him!"

He stood up and then he headed into another room, which looked like a cabinet with several cupboards. In each cabinet sitting behind a glass cupboard door, there were several masks that were perched on head dummies. He approached an empty one and using a key that was tied to his right hand, he unlocked it and opened it. "I think No. 6 will do for this afternoon," the prince said as he reached up and held his head. Then he twisted his head to the left and there was a click. Suddenly, the dalmatian's head was removed from the body and placed into the cupboard. Then the body closed the door and walked over to another cupboard numbered "6". Using the key on his right hand, the prince opened the cabinet to reveal the head of a Doberman. Then, the body lifted the head above its shoulders as it fitted the head into place, and it turned it to the right to fasten it in and returned to the room of mirrors. Suddenly, a smokey mist appeared in the air. It was Exortos, the Black Serpent. "Something's happened," he hissed angrily and the doberman came up and bowed to the snake. "I'm not surprised because I just saw him: Nathan." "Nathan? Alive? That Draco brat?!" hissed Exortos angrily, "My curse has not been fulfilled!"

Aramis sat there and watched the young kobold walk away. "Hell's bell's" he cried out. "Of all the stubborn little shits, I get paired up with one that makes even my tail ache." Minutes go by. Finally, the horse gets up, yawning and stretching out his stiff muscles. "Well, Mr. Dragonbreath seems to have made his decision. Looks like he's not our problem anymore, eh B?"

"Better off without him I say." The paladin turns to his friend, his plan to get back on his mount and head back the way they had come. Where his horse should have been, nothing but thin air greeted him. "What the....?" Suddenly the sound of hooves slapping the hard ground made him turn in the opposite direction. The sight of the massive Shire's behind slowly disappearing into the horizon.

"Hey you overgrown feedbag, where the hell do you think your going?" A high pitched whinnie greeted his query. The sight of the knight beginning to trot after his mount must have made the gods roar with laughter.

Nathan was well far ahead by now. "Just who does that knight think he is?" he muttered, "What kind of a knight goes around requesting money for service?"

Just then, he heard a loud screeching and he gasped and fell to the ground to duck just as a giant fireball flew past him. He looked up and saw a great firebird high in the sky. He gasped and tried to blast it with his ice magic, but it seemed to not be enough. It was enough to injure the creature but not enough to put it out!

The dragon gulped and then he took off into the air with the firebird chasing after him.

Sweat begin to permeate under the armor of the knight as he ran to catch up with his partner. A noise from above made him stop and look to the sky. A dark shadow flashed over his head. Without thinking, he let out a loud whistle. Baylor stopped in his tracks, turning his neck around. Within moments Aramis was slipping his hoof into a stirrup, heaving his large body into the saddle. He grabbed the rhines and with a "ha" they shot down the road like a rabbit.

The dragon was nearly out of breath but the blazing monster was catching up fast. He had to think of something quick. Up ahead, he caught sight of a vast lake which was the perfect spot to put out a fire. He grinned as he created an icy wind to carry himself high into the air and make a power dive for the water with the firebird in a literal hot pursuit.

As Aramis and Baylor flew down the road he kept his eye on the two dragons as they flew. "Gods, how small he looked up against that flying beast" he said to himself. Coming out of the canopy of trees he spied a large lake. Veering off the path the pair continued their pursuit. Across the field they raced quickly approaching a cliff.

The dragon was nearing the water's surface but he didn't pull up. "Not yet," he thought, "Almost there." And just as he was only six feet away, he turned upward. The firebird screeched and fell into the water. "Serves you right, you over-fried chicken," said Nathan but one of the firebird's talons scratched one of his wings and he yelled out in pain as he too fell in the water. The firebird was nothing but ashes now, but poor Nathan was drifting on the water's surface for the impact had knocked him out.

Aramis watched as the dragons fell into the lake. Both rider and mount were upon the precipice. "Baylor, now!" The horse jumped away from the ledge. Letting out an ear piercing neigh as feathered wings shot out from his body. Like a bullet, the pair flashed through the air aiming towards the lake surface.

Soaking wet and water-logged, Nathan coughed for air as he found himself in strong, but comforting arms. "Ar-Aramis? What're you doing here?" he croaked groggily before turning his head to cough up water away from his savior.

"Hang in there kid." The knight scooped him up and into his arms. The world whizzed by as both riders and steed headed back to the shore. With the delicacy of a dancer Baylor lit upon the earth. Flapping and stretching his wings as he caught his breath.

Aramis slowly lowered Nathan to the ground before he himself slipped off his steed.

Nathan coughed up more water and he lay on the ground shivering. There was blood coming from his cut wing and it had a burned look that seemed to spread slowly and make the poor dragon look as pale as stone.

A voice in Aramis' head spoke saying, "He needs cold. Fetch freezing cold water and place it upon the wound."

The knight bolted upright. "Who's there?" Reacting to the voice. His sword already unsheathed, he took a defensive stance.

"I am Spring," said the voice, "And Nathan doesn't have much time left. He's the last surviving heir of Jack Frost and if you don't help him, he'll die."

Aramis felt a shiver as it ran from his spine to the top of his head. "Gads" he whispered. Without hesitation, he pulled the leather bag he used to feed Baylor and raced to the lake's edge. Scooping up as much water as it could hold, he carefully returned and crouched down next to the dragon. His normal bright blue skin seems muted and dull.

Taking much care, he slowing poured the liquid over the damaged wing. His eyes widened as within moments the black and bruised wing began to repair itself. In addition, Nathan's coloring seemed to return to it's normal shade, looking more vibrant by the moment.

"Listen carefully," said the voice as Nathan lay there on the ground, "This poor dragon that you so roughly treated is in fact the lost prince from that ruin you just came out of. In Azure City, Nathan has a grandfather. He's called the Dragon Emperor Eldor. Go to him and tell him that you've come to restore his grandson to him."

Before Aramis could ask the voice, Nathan began to stir and he blinked his eyes. "Aramis? You came back for me... Why?" he asked as he tried to sit up, but found Baylor laying down beside him to act as a pillow for the young royal. the dragon smiled and hugged the winged horse. "I knew you were special," he said softly.

The knight didn't answer the question. With all that had happen today he was too overwhelmed to answer the young dragon's question. He stood up. He gave Baylor a look that the horse knew needed no words to understand its meaning. He walked away, moving slowly down the shore of the lake.

Deep in thought, the horse was turning ideas and thoughts over in his mind. He needed to formulate a plan to not only return the prince to his grandfather but to insure it didn't cause harm to him or anyone else. He thought back to when he was young. Of the day his whole world turned upside down and with it his own chance of happiness. One that would have been of a home and a family of his own.

It was at that point Nathan had fallen asleep under Baylor's wing and he was sleeping peacefully. "Good night," he said softly to the winged steed.

It was almost dark when Aramis returned, carrying a large pile of wood. He carefully laid it down and began to organize it. It was going to be a cold night and he wasn't about to spend it shivering under a thin blanket.

He quietly walked over to where the pair were lying. With silent movements he began to unhooked his saddle and bags from around Baylor. Even he must have been exhausted as he hardly moved or made a sound. The knight set about removing items from them as he set up camp for the night.

Not much time later, everything was in its place. He stood over the pile of wood and with a snap of his fingers, sparks flew from them and in a minute or so they had a roaring fire. He chuckled to himself and said, "You aren't the only one who knows a bit of magic."

He looked up just as the moon crested the mountains looking bright and full. From the sky, there shone a bright, lavender star. The star started to come down to them but it slowed as it came to the beach. Just before it touched the ground, the light took the form of a beautiful unicorn in a long, sleeveless lavender dress with a long train and several beautiful flowers rose up behind her.

She looked to Aramis and was unphased when she saw a human instead of a horse in armor.

"Greetings, Sir Aramis," she said in a silky tone, "I am the Spring Unicorn."

With all that had transpired over the past day he had almost forgot that it was the night of the full moon. While out gathering wood he could feel the pull of Luna. After setting up camp he went to isolate himself and prepare for the coming change. He stripped his body of all of his armour and clothes. He felt a shudder as his body began to rearrange itself. Hooves became feet, fur fell to the ground, becoming smooth skin. His body and face rippled. Where once a massive draft anthro stood, an equally impressive human had taken its place.

He turned to face the visage that was the voice. "I won't say that I'm pleased to see you goddess. I assume you came because of the young dragon?"

"Yes, and like I said before, he is the son of Jack Frost," she said, "And you don't sound too impressed." She crossed her arms at him. "Just what has gotten into you?" she asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Me!" the paladin said. "I was taken from my home as a child, tortured and abused by a sadist, turned into piece of horse flesh and you ask me what's gotten into me?" You and others of your ilk really tick me off." By this time the human is pacing back and forth in a highly agitated state.

"Over the past fifteen years I have done all that you have asked of me. I became a knight, using my physical and magical abilities for good. I rescued the Pegasus and raised him like a brother. But no, that wasn't enough for you. You give me this impossible task of reuniting the son of Jack Frost with his Grandfather. This I say is going too far. It will surely result in the death of him, Baylor and more and likely myself. Not to mention what the Dark Lord will do to countless innocents. You promised me goddess. You promised that if I did your bidding that I would be returned to my human form for all time!" Aramis stood before the Unicorn, panting. His heavily muscled chest heaving from emotion. His green eyes dark and menacing as he stared her down with his rage.

"And it never occurred to you that Nathan here is looking for a home the same as you? And like you, he too has never known love before," she said before she summoned a stool pigeon and it flashed its tattle-tail.

On the tail, there was a scene where a 12 year old Nathan was being beaten by the orphanage headmaster. The boar was using a whip and the poor dragon was in chains. "Worthless piece of nothing!" he growled in the vision, "I'll show you what I think of your stupid powers!" The vision faded and Spring looked saddened. "I'm afraid Nathan's scars had never healed since that day," she said, "If you could learn to love him as well as have him love you in return, there might be something better for you in the future."

Images of his own abuse by Leopold, the mage that had kidnapped him flashed in his head. His anger began to soften, his muscles relaxing. He looked down at the ground. Wet spots began to appear in the dirt. He looked up at the Unicorn. "I'm sorry that I spoke ill of you goddess. My path to freedom has been a long and heavy one. Sometimes I forget how many others have seen and experienced even worse horrors then I have."

Turning and looking at the sleeping dragon and Pegasus in the distance he tried to remember his training that took him from a pathetic young colt and molded him to something better, something finer, "Allright goddess. I will take on this challenge. It is what a knight does. Facing the fears and evil of this world. To lay down his life if needed to defend the weak and innocent."

Spring smiled. "And I have a feeling you'll need him too in the future someday," she said, "What for is something the two of you will need to find out for yourselves. Farewell." And with that, she took to her lavender star form and went back up to the sky again.

Standing there in the dark, the man looked up into the star laden sky. He felt the burden of years of strife and uncertainty flood his body and mind. The curse being able to be human one night a month. The uncertainty was after years of being an anthro it felt normal to be one living in it's skin. There was incredible strength and stamina. How it aided him in his fight against evil. Not to mention the 'other' pleasures there was to being a horse.

He looked at his armour strewn about the ground. He began to gather them up in his arms, the proceeded to walk back to camp. Quietly laying it next to the fire. He grabbed his old wool blanket, wrapping himself in it he promptly fell asleep.

Nathan stirred to the small, clatter of armor and his eyes fluttered open. He smiled to see Baylor but he gasped as he saw a human. "Who are you?" he demanded getting on his feet, "And what have you done with Aramis?"

Aramis opened his eyes to the sight of Nathan standing over him. Not fully realizing the nature of the situation he replied, "Nathan, stop bothering me and go back to sleep, it's the middle of the night."

"How did you know my name, human?" growled the dragon as he flicked his hand and an ice block shot up from under the human and then clamped his hands and feet to it before it turned around to face Nathan. "Now," he said, "The Aramis I know was an anthro stallion. Now, tell me where he is or I'll give you frostbite in places you don't want it to reach."

"Arrrrrrrrrgh" screamed the man. Now fully awake due to the freezing cold from his bindings, Aramis screamed at the top of his lungs. "You stupid lizard. You'd better start flapping those wings of yours, because when I get free we'll be eating lizard meat for supper tomorrow night!"

"Not unless you tell me where Aramis is," said Nathan growling as he flicked his hand and arm made of ice came out of the block and the fingers combined themselves into a pick but then Baylor came up to nuzzle the human. "Baylor? What're you doing? We need him to tell us where Aramis is- Wait... Aramis?" he asked confused.

Eyes closed, the human began to speak a chant just under his breath. Steam began to rise in the air as the bindings began to melt. Within minutes Aramis broke free of the remaining ice. "Baylor" he said. "Grab some clothes from my pack while I strangle our little friend friend here."

Nathan gulped. "Wait a minute," he said, nervously not paying attention to where he was going as he was backing up into the fire, "You never told me you could turn human- OW!" He yelped as he felt his tail burn and he quickly created an ice pack. He removed his shirt to make a bandage and on his back were faded lash marks.

Aramis stopped his approach on the male. Noticing the marks on the young dragon's back snapped him out of his rage. The flames from the fire created dancing shadows across his sinewy muscles. His body heaving from his reaction to being bound, veins criss crossing its surface. Long black hair fell in a tangled mess across his shoulders and down his back. His uncut cock thick and long, pulsed to the rhythm of his heart beat.

"I don't blame you for being angry," said Nathan looking down, "I get these marks whenever I do use my powers. The headmaster hated me while the other kids teased me and took advantage of me... I don't want to go back there... I'll die if I stay there."

He turned and looked at the human with sad, heartbroken tears coming from his eyes. "Don't you know what it's like to never know love? Or never know who your family is?" He looked down and wrapped his arms around his legs while his wings wrapped around himself.

The man stepped forward, eyes brimming with tears. He wrapped his arms around the dragon. "It's ok Nathan. That is nothing you should ever be afraid of anymore. Baylor and I will make sure of it." Aramis said as he rocked him in his arms. The scent of the male invaded the humans psyche. The dragon smelled of spice and earth. He continued to breathe it in as it tickled at his brain.

"You mean it?" asked Nathan as he scooted closer into the human's arms. He felt something strange compared to all the gloom and dread he used to know before. Now... he felt safety, warmth, and compassion. He turned and hugged Aramis resting his head on the human's chest with his snout under the human's chin.

The touch of another male was not foreign to Aramis. He had first experienced it while training to be a knight. Long days and months of being with nothing but other males made one long for another's touch.

As he held the dragon he began to feel his cock harden and push against his body. Feeling embarrassed, he quickly released his grip on Nathan. Turning, he walked over to Baylor to retrieve his clothes.

The dragon looked up confused. He blushed as well when he secretly saw a small bulge of his own. But thankfully, he had his wings cover him.

I chanced a quick glimpse of Aramis and he just had to marvel at the sight of such a beautifully built and very handsome human male.

Aramis dressed and presentable sat down near the fire. Still feeling a bit abashed from before he sat, not saying a word. Baylor felt his companion's mood and came over to put his muzzle against the back of the man's head.

Nathan chuckled at how Baylor was trying to nudge his human. "So... How did you find Baylor anyway?" he asked as he tried to break the awkward silence.

Aramis grateful for the question as it deflected the current mood from him. "That my friend was a long time ago and a long story. Are you sure you want to hear it."

"I'm all ears," said Nathan as he scooted closer and he smiled when Baylor lay down next to him. The dragon made himself comfortable cuddling the winged horse and stroking his gentle face.

The man took in a deep breath, then looked over at the horse. Baylor nodded his head. "It was over ten years ago. It was down south in the border region. I had been a knight just a short time and was still wet behind my ears.

We had reports of a large Drake who had been burning wheat fields and stealing livestock. Me and a few of my fellow knights were dispatched to take him down and end the carnage. We climbed deep into the Purple Mist mountains to where we were told he had his lair.

We could smell it long before we could see it. The entrance to the cave was blackened and charred. As we slowly crawled towards its egress, a series of whinnies filled the air followed by a terrible roar. Silently we moved forward

into the dark void. Not far from the opening we crouched down behind some boulders. The sight before us sent chills up our spine. The room was illuminated from crystals embedded in the rocks.

In the center of the room stood a draft stallion. It was rearing itself up on his hind legs. In front of him stood the dragon we had been searching for. Behind the stallion sat a creature I had heard of but had never seen. It lied on its side upon a bed of straw. At first glance it looked to be like any other horse. That is until it raised its head. Polished by the light was a spiralled horn protruding from it's forehead. 'Unicorn' I said in a hushed tone.

It was then we realized the mortal stallion was trying to protect the mare. Time and time again, the horse would kick at the muzzle of the dragon as it tried to move around him to get at the female. It was only a matter of time until the dragon would win. Already the male was tiring. A thick layer of sweat covered his coat. His movements became leaden.

Then suddenly the drake's maw struck. It clamped down on the horse's neck. Pulling the equine into the air, shaking the stricken animal back and forth like a puppet. Shrieks of pain reverberating throughout the room. 'Snap' and the horse went limp, dangling in the air like some piece of meat that hung in a butcher's shop.

The dragon flung the lifeless body of the draft horse against the wall of the cave. Falling to the floor, it layed there in a crumpled heap. I was momentarily transfixed by the scene before me. A desperate whinny filled the air. The drake had moved towards the unicorn. My mind and body came to life. Something inside me telling me I must save this creature.

I jumped up, and with sword and shield in hand I rushed at the beast. The first strike was true. Shoving my blade deep into the side of the lizard. Taking his mind off his prey he turned to see his new one. I yelled at my companions to save the mare. I pulled out my sword and just before a blast of searing heat was to take me I rolled under the dragon's belly. I sliced his underside the full length, all the way to his breast. The monster roared with searing pain. When it tried to devour me with his gaping mouth I came up underneath his neck and impaled him underneath his jaw. Holding on to dear life, the monster flung his head to and fro trying it's best to unlodge me. Slowly, his movements became less and less till finally in one soden swish his long sinuous neck fell to the ground."

While Aramis told his story, he could see that Nathan was rapt with attention, hanging on every word I spoke.

"There I was, drenched in the dragon's blood. It was dead and I had saved the day. The unicorn was saved and I was the hero of the hour. The end."

He looked over at Baylor. He was giving the paladin that "You are so full of dung" look.

"So my young adventurer. That's how I met and found Baylor."

"You mean... Baylor was the draft horse defending the unicorn?" asked Nathan looking at the draft beside him, "And what happened to the unicorn? You didn't tell us what happened after that."

"Oh, um ah yes, about that, the unicorn was with foal. Once we got her out of the cave she um ah had her colt and the colt ah um was Baylor, yes that's right." A huge snort and wuffle of disapproval came from the direction of the steed. His head shook with disgust.

"Well, your father gave his life to save you and your mother," said Nathan turning to the feral stallion beside him, "You should be the one who ought to be proud. Your father was a hero." That seemed to make Baylor feel better.

All the while as he told his tall tale he hadn't noticed that the dragon had slid up close to him. Almost touching. Aramis looked down at Nathan. He looked so innocent and sweet. That scent was back. It invaded his senses, causing his body to heat up.

"So... this transforming at night... How did it happen?" he asked as he wanted to understand this paladin a little more and hopefully know how to stay on his good side.

"That's a story for another time. It's late and we need to get our sleep. Tomorrow will be a very long day." Aramis stands. He goes to get his bedroll. He calls out "Nathan, grab some more wood and put it on the fire will you?"

Baylor ambles up to his companion. He gives the human an exasperated look. Aramis whispers,"Oh come on Bay, don't give me that look. If I told him the truth he wouldn't believe me. This way he gets to tell a great story to everyone about Knights and dragons and Unicorns. And how I was a hero. A few tiny white lies won't hurt anyone." The man pulls a few carrots out of his satchel. "Here. Will this make up for it?" as he holds them to the horses muzzle.

Nathan nodded but instead of getting up, he waved his hand magically and several snowflakes left his hands and they dashed through the woods and picked up a few good pieces of wood for the fire.

But when he heard Aramis whisper about "little white lies" he turned around and looked at the human. "What was that?" he asked, coming up to them while his snowflakes did the work.

"What" the knight said. "Oh, it's nothing. Me and Bay were talking about an old acquaintance of ours, that's all. Hey, good trick with the snowflakes kid." Aramis walked over to the fire. Laying out his bedroll, he crawled under his blanket and got ready to go to sleep.

Nathan shivered. Sadly, there was no extra blanket for him. He crawled over to where the human was resting. "Um... Aramis? Can... Can I sleep with you tonight?" he asked shyly.

The man looked at Nathan. He thought long and hard about his request. "He did look a bit cold," he thought. He took a breath in, "Sure kid, as long as you don't hog the blanket". He pulled the blanket up to welcome the young dragon.

"Thanks," said Nathan as he lay down and he fell asleep the moment his head l felt the pillow and he snuggled up to the human's body for body heat. "You feel so cozy," he murmured softly.

"By god's bones" Aramis muttered under his breath. He was mere inches from the boy's face. He turned to lie on his back. Already the dragon's confounded scent was filling his head and his cock. He adjusted his braies while pulling his woolen tunic over them to hide his burgeoning prick. He laid there for quite a while till even he fell under the spell of Luna. Deeply he slept.

The next morning, Baylor woke to the shining rays of the dawn. He trotted over to munch on some grass nearby, but what really made the horse's day was when he saw Aramis, in his stallion form, holding Nathan in his arms. The flying horse gave a snort to act as a chuckle when he saw this.

Slowly the darkness turned to grey. The grey turned to light as the massive stallion stirred from his slumber. Ever so slowly Aramis stretched his form. He knew without looking he had once again become his other. Like an old coat, this form was familiar. After years of living with the curse he had come to accept and enjoy many of the aspects of being an anthro.

A smile crept across his face. The memories of last night were still fresh in his mind. He could smell the pungent scent of his coupling with the dragon. Dried sweat and cum encrusted his fur. Even now, he felt the stirrings coming from his loins. Looking down at his companion, the sleeping dragon looks small and vulnerable.

It was around midnight and Nathan was dreaming about fire all around with dragons shouting and screaming in terror and one dragoness holding a baby. She was then engulfed by a giant snake like mouth which snapped shut and red snake eyes flashed making the young dragon gasp awake.

Aramis woke to the sounds and movement of Nathan in the throes of a night terror. He turned and grabbed his shoulder and hip, in the attempt to wake the dragon. "Nathan, wake up, you're having a bad dream."

When Nathan woke up, he looked up at Aramis with a look that showed that he was terrified. He leaned against Aramis' chest as tears dripped from his eyes. "It seemed so real," he whimpered, "No matter how I try to forget it, the memory of it is always there... I'm scared."

The man was at a loss. "What the hell happened to him that he would have such a horrible dream." he thought. He looked into those blue eyes of his. How deep and clear a shade they were. They had a hypnotic effect on the human. "Nathan" he spoke in a calm tone.

He reached to pull his tunic up over his head. His naked torso shimmering in the firelight. "Nathan" again, he spoke his name.

The dragon looked up into the human's eyes. "Aramis," he said softly as their faces were only inches away from each other. The human's scent had a mix of forest and horse upon him that made the dragon feel safe.

The man reached behind him, grasping the back of his neck in his hand. Pulling him closer to him. Lips met as Aramis slipped his tongue into the dragon's mouth. Minding his sharp teeth, he delved deep into the depths of Nathan's muzzle.

Nathan closed his eyes as he tilted his head into the kiss. He opened his mouth wider so that his forked tongue could rub alongside Aramis' tongue. He almost tasted as he smelled.

The feeling of the dragon's tongue wrapping itself around his was exquisite. In a way, it was a dance of wills as they both took turns sliding, sucking and darting their appendages inside each other's orifice.

Aramis slipped his hands on the hem of Nathan's britches. Pulling them down exposing his genitals. A nice plump cock popped up followed by a pair of full round balls. He grasped it, rubbing it with his thumb and forefinger. With the other he cupped the scrotum, slowly rolling them with his fingers.

The dragon shivered when he felt his cock and balls being touched. "Aramis... Be gentle," he said softly between kisses, "It's... my first time." He slowly slid a hand down to do the same to the human... who was much bigger than he had anticipated.

Leaning into his ear. "Don't worry, I won't break you...much. The human slipped a hand over the other's. Together, they pulled his woolen pants down exposing his stiff cock to the cool air. A bit of precum oozed from its tip. "Go ahead, taste it."

Nathan gulped and then he leaned down while being careful not to poke the human with his horns. He liked the tip of Aramis' cut, though it was partially covered by foreskin. He gently gripped it and slid it down to give it a better taste.

A low sound roiled up from the man's throat. A reaction to the dragon's touch. Reaching out, he places his hands on each of his horns. Making sure he stays right where he's at.

The dragon looked up at Aramis wondering why he was making such strange noises. But when he felt the human's hands on his horns, Nathan could only assume they were just happy noises. So he continued to suck more and more on the human cock before him.

The touch of the dragon's tongue on his prick sent waves of pleasure through his body. It's shaft slipping out of its foreskin like a budding flower. Aramis pushed the kobold's head deeper on to his manhood. He began to rub the horns he was holding into a rhythmic motion.

Nathan moaned himself as he too felt his own cock grow but it wasn't as long as Aramis'. He would tap the human's leg in case he needed breath.

"That's it kid, um, right there. Oh yeah, that's the spot." The man started to buck his hips in time in response to the ministrations being heaped upon him by the other male. If this was his first time giving oral, he was surely a natural. Aramis flinched and shook when Nathan would do something new with his tongue.

The dragon was pleased to hear such praise... though he sure was feeling hard himself and was in dire need of a similar treatment. He looked up at Aramis hoping that he would take pity and help him out.

He was pushing towards the edge. His turgid cock bloated with blood. The strain made it ache down deep into its root. Without thought, he grasp the dragon's stiff cock causing it to spurt pre all over his hand.

Nathan gave a whimpering moan. So that's what it feels like he thought as Aramis stroked him off. It felt indescribable in a good way as he humped his hips into the human's hand while he kept on sucking on that long cock in his mouth.

Aramis could feel his impending orgasm. His back arched as his ass cheeks tighten with coiled muscle. He matched Nathan stroke to stroke as he hand fucked his prick while his was sucked into oblivion.

The dragon also could feel something ready to come out as he wanted so much to get it out of his system so he sucked and humped harder as he wanted them both to get whatever it was out of their own cocks.

The human's balls seized, his body went rigid as cum pushed up his shaft. Thick cream splashed into the back of Nathan's throat as it filled his orifice.

Nathan tried to swallow it but the flood of this gooey substance caused the young dragon to erupt as well and he gasped for air as some of Aramis' semen splashed onto his face.

A moment later Aramis felt the twitch from the dragon's cock. Pulse after pulse spasmed within his grasp as it gave up it's bounty.

The dragon moaned as his own cum came out. It felt good as he felt relief flow through him. He sat up and kissed Aramis lightly. "That felt... good," he whispered softly.

Aramis chuckled. "You liked that did you? Then a look of concern fell across his face. In a bit of a nervous tone said, "Wait. That wasn't your first time was it?" Looking at Nathan with concern.

"Actually... it was my first," said Nathan softly, "But I'm glad I had it with you." He snuggled up to the human and hugged him.

"Arrrrgh!" The man covered his face with his hands. "By the Gods that be, render my heart from my breast and feed it to the curs." The warmth from the dragon's body up against his own softened the shock somewhat.

He enveloped Nathan's body with his arms. He already could feel his heartbeat. The veil of sleep began to overtake him. His last conscious thought was of how blissful he felt having another next to him.

When Nathan awoke the next morning, he could see Aramis in his stallion form again and he smiled as he stayed close in the bigger male's embrace. For the first time in his sad life, he smiled feeling content and loved.

The stallion felt movement next to him. He turned to look into the eyes of the dragon. "Good morning, slept well?"

Nathan perked his head up slowly and nodded. "You?" he asked softly as he traced one of Aramis' nipples.

The big horse wuffled in response. "Hey, none of that now. The sun is already up and we need to get going if we're going to make it to the village." Aramis pulled back the blanket and rolled over. He stood up yawning and stretching his immense frame. Turning, he held his hand out to Nathan, "Come on, we need to break camp. You can help by feeding and watering Baylor."

The dragon nodded and he slipped back on his clothes before walking over to the winged steed, who was already grazing on some grass. "Morning, big fella," he said patting Baylor's neck, "You sleep well?"

"Nathan" called out the knight. You'll find his oats in one of the saddle bags. fill his feed bag halfway to the top. Come see me when you're done doing that, ok?"

"Alright," replied Nathan as he set to work filling the feed bag. He lifted up to Baylor and the horse took to it at once. After attaching it to the feral stallion's face, Nathan returned to the knight's side.

"Good job." The horse handed him a brush. "When Bay is done with his feed, take the brush and give him a brush out. Make sure when you're doing his mane and tail that you get all the snags out.

Nathan nodded and when he got back, Baylor was already finished with his breakfast. "Ready for some grooming?" he asked as he held up the brush to Baylor. The horse perked up and sniffed the brush. Then he turned his head and held it high for Nathan to get all of his mane.

"One thing I forgot to tell you that if you don't do a good job Bay might take a bite out of you." A deep throated laugh came out of the knight.

Nathan stopped in mid brush to look at Aramis. Then he looked at Baylor. "Well... Don't hold it against me," he whispered, "I never brushed anyone's hair... or mane, before." He continued to gently brush the mane out and once it was done, he moved onto the tail. Surprisingly, Baylor was patient with the young dragon and didn't swish his tail. After that, Nathan looked to marvel at his work. There wasn't a stray hair insight. "Baylor, you look like a brand new you," he said stroking the stallion's nose gently.

The Shire leaned down and rubbed the dragon's neck. Aramis watched the interaction between the two, filling him with joy. But like a fleeting thought he returned to his serious self. "Hey you two, get the lead out. Nathan, go with Baylor to the river so he can take a drink and here" he throws him a calves skin, "You can fill this up while you're there."

Nathan caught it in his hand and sighed as he walked with Baylor. "Is he always like this?" he whispered to the steed who nodded his head up and down. "Just checking," he said as he and the horse went to the river.

Aramis watched as the pair disappeared out of sight. He stood there, looking over the camp. Images of last night fresh in his mind. Was what he did with Nathan the right thing? Was it done out of a need for intimacy or because he truly cares about the Dragon. He would need to have a serious talk. Shaking his head he moved to finish packing before returned.

After getting the water skin filled, and Baylor having drank his fill, the horse and Nathan strolled side by side back to Aramis with the dragon's arm draped across Baylor's shoulder like the two of them had become close friends.

"Took you two long enough." Aramis stood there, dressed in his tunic and pants, his sword strapped on his back. "Nathan, I'll need you to hand me the gear and I'll load it on Baylor." Ready Bay? The horse walked over and stood next to him. He folded his wings to him as they disappeared from view.

Nathan grabbed the gear but when he picked it up, he yelped as it felt so heavy and he tried his best not to drop it. Then he remembered he had magic. He waved his hand and two blocks of ice appeared. From their sides grew two long arms with three fingers and a thumb on each hand and they picked the armor up like it was as light as a feather.

The knight looked down at the dragon. "Really Nathan?" admonishing him. " How are you going to get bigger and stronger if you don't do things yourself." Clearly aggravated, Aramis grabbed the saddle from the ice hands and began to cinch up the horse.

"I tried to do it myself," he said feeling hurt from the rough treatment he was receiving, "I just can't help it." He walked over some paces away from Aramis just to have some time to himself. He held up his snowflake necklace in his hands and sighed. "I wish my parents were here," he thought, "They'd think it was a clever idea."

It was then he heard Baylor whinny and snap... followed by Aramis going "OW!"

The sudden bite to his hand had the paladin hopping around like a rabbit. "I swear to the gods I'm going to feed you to the Gerlocks you worthless nag!" A string of profanities followed his words.

Nathan rushed over and stroked Baylor, who nestled his head into Nathan's chest. "What happened?" he asked while stroking the horse's head when he saw the bite marks on Aramis' hand. He turned and faced the horse and looked him in the eye. "Now, Baylor, I know Aramis might have hurt me, and I appreciate you defending me, but biting someone's hand is not nice," he said in a stern tone, "Now what do you have to say to Aramis?" The horse trotted over to Aramis and nuzzled him with cute eyes as an apology.

The anthro pushed him away, still fuming at the horse's action. "Don't play cute with me. Your lucky I don't sell you at the auction at Farla." Now come on, we need to finish packing. Aramis gives a light smack on the horse's flank. That was a sign that he still loved his friend. "Nathan, let's go."

"Alright," said Nathan but before he continued, he turned to Baylor and gave a small kiss on his cheek, "Thanks... Friend."

Aramis finished saddling Bay and loading their gear. Standing there facing the others. Making eye contact with the dragon. "Nathan. I'm not going to lie. We are about to embark on a dangerous and harrowing journey. It's not too late for you to turn back. We won't blame you if you do."

Nathan thought back to the fire bird but he took a deep breath and said, "Let's go... Azure City is the place to be."

The paladin looked at the Pegasus. No words were spoken as a silent agreement passed between the two of them. Aramis turned to face the road. "Alright then. Azure City it is." Without looking back at the others he simply said, " Let's go".