FSE

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formerly SoFurry search engine

Chapter 19

Without taking a breath Cordenth laid bare what events had transpired. He thought it wise to start at the moment of their separation. Though why had she rolled her eyes? She had said to start at the beginning. She was quiet and reserved until he spoke of his mother's cryptic warning and promise of his death. The fiery woman he adored burst to the surface. She was ranting and raving, swearing like a sailor as she called his mother a bitch at least forty-seven times.

“But the look he gave me." A weight settled onto Cordenth's shoulders as he recalled the look in her eye. Though he tried to tell himself the opposite, he believed there was truth there.

“She's only playing you again Cordy, look at the bloody facts. Nothing is ever real with her. The ole bird is just trying to get you wrapped around her paw." With a heavy sigh she leaned up against him, “Where was this concern when you were trapped in the deep fae? Or when your brother was possessed by a demon?" She shook her head, “Hate to say it, but your mums only happy when she gets what she wants. Your happiness? It doesn't factor into the equation."

Cordenth sighed, frills pinning as he knew it to be so. How he wished it were not so, that she would care for him like any mother might. Memories of his youth flickered and played between his horns. One time they had been a loving family, that was certain. He recalled following Croesus and his mother through the forest with up-most glee. Nights spent dreaming up stories or songs to be sung brought warbles to his dearest mother's throat. Time after time, nearly dozen accounts of her love and affection. How many of them were real? Her twisted plan resting in the back of her mind, using her children for mere ends to a means.

The thought made him sick at each lungful look, every pained expression that she gave him. Always she said it was for his own good, yet how could the death of his friends be that end? He shook his head, unwilling to accept the outcome. She had to wrong, at least this once. He could feel it coursing through his paws. As he looked to them he could already feel her hardened expression upon him.

“And what else?" Lyndis leaned in, her tender massage around his snout comforting. Eyes of amber beauty were a sea of concern. They fluttered his frills, brought a weak smile to his snout. He could always count on her to be there for him.

“Plenty of things." He coughed, swelling his chest, telling her of his capture and drunken exploits. He tried to frame them in the most flattering of ways, but still she chuckled and snickered to his dismay. She was hardly holding herself as laughter had her gasping for breath over how he'd found the wrong woman in the tower.

“You didn't need to laugh." His snout wrinkled as he slunk to her bed, resting upon the sheets darker than the ocean. The poor bed creaked at his weight, yet the sturdy wooden frame held him. “How it wounds at me."

Lyndis struggled to swallow it down, but composed herself with a cough. She slipped over, resting beside him with an arm slung around his neck. “But can you imagine that woman's face? The absolute gobsmacked look?"

“Yes." He groaned, flicking his tail and looking away. “I was there."

“And talk about that bravery! You could have gotten a frying pan to the face!"

He licked his nose at the idea, and shuttered at the image. “Perhaps more stupidity. If I were a malicious beast, she'd have increased the chance of her death. I'm starting to think all the females in your land are just as foolhardy"

“Mayhaps they might. Though often foolhearty and brave go hand in hand." Lyndis poked his nose with a grin. “Generally, counts on who's the one doing the winning. In this case, I'd wager it's maiden one and nosy dragons zero."

“That is a terrible game." He narrowed his eyes as she started another round laughing. Hastily he moved along the story, but wisely skipped over his embarrassment by Jeriah's paws. Instead he spoke with a swollen chest over his charming like speech, and how it had done wonders with the dwarves. His paw even found his chest as he chuckled deep in his throat over how quickly he'd begun to master that power. “You should have seen them doing their little antics. Prancing around like elves, insulting each other." He chortled under his breath, pride swirling around every word. He'd come far from the blithering fool in his mother's temple.

“And though I may not have anticipated it, the plan worked wonderfully on you mother." He grinned, tapping his tail in delight. “And think of what could be done with other alliances we might need. With just a word I could have them eating out of our paws." To his amusement, Lyndis was speechless as her jaw fell open. Clearly she understood just as he that their coming problems would be nothing to this. “Now, now." He swished a paw, “You needn't thank me. Well ok, maybe just a little."

“Thank you?" Lyndis' eyes burned, her voice sharper than a sword. “Reckless! You used a bloody unknown power on me mum! What if her head exploded!"

“That's the only part you have issue with? We tested it to be safe." He tilted his head, frills gently fluttering. “I thought it might be something you would do."

Her cheeks flushed. “Even still. It was untested and you didn't know what was going on. What if you made her senile, crazy, we don't know the lasting affects of whatever this….dragon trick was!" She traveled to the window, arms tightly woven under her arms. Even as a silence fell upon the room he could see her trembling.

Words caught in the dragon's throat. Doubt slithered across his thoughts. It was true he hadn't thought of that. Yet everything had happened to fast. “Lyndis." He pressed forward, leaving her bed. “True I had not planned for this, but we were forced into action. Jeriah either mistook what I said or was enchanted by my words, he forced the meeting far sooner than I'd have liked."

Lyndis didn't turn.

“If it makes ya feel better. All me family seemed well enough after." Keerla shrugged, all but forgotten as the pair engaged in conversation. “Really funny enchanting them. Mind if we do it again sometime?"

Cordenth grinned, practically glowing at the promise of adoring fans. “Of course!"

“Both of you are forgetting they're dwarfs. Hearty folk unlike we humans." Lyndis whirled around, “Answer me this, did you consider just where this power came from? For all we know it could be the thing your mum was blathering about!"

That couldn't be true. Mother had only spoken of his future sight, and that hadn't been much of an issue. He chuckled, not seeking to trouble her with the golden light he'd been catching sight of during his visions. “It's just a natural thing." Cordenth rumbled, “Some develop auras that inspire fear and dread, others awe and courage. This just seems to be the later." He dismissed her sharpened eyes with a wave of his paw. “Its just another avenue of the bond that Arcturus and Veledar share. I'm certain of it."

Lyndis seemed unconvinced. “You don't know that." She cupped his jaw, gently rising it up until their eyes were mere inches apart, “Tell me this then, how'd she look?" The sharpness dulled, worn away till only the concern remained flickering in her amber pools. “Did she say anything else? Did she tremble? Please, I need to know."

With a reserved breath he explained everything that had transpired between he and the mother. Any other instance his speech would have seemed heroic, something written down for historians to quote. The day that Drenedar was set back on a path of greatness. “In the end she looked relieved, honestly remorseful for what she'd done." He sighed and pressed his snout to her. “Perhaps she just needed a final push to break the dam. Grief and stress had her too blinded."

Lyndis nodded with a heartfelt sigh, starting to massage his snout. “Suppose so. Though how bad is it she needed magical convincing to not be stubborn."

“Guess lets hope you're not like that." He chuckled, getting a playful smack on the cheek.

“Don't push your luck. Still cross with you."

“Even if we got what we wanted?" He smiled, swishing his tail. “Even you have to admit that was a neat plan. You could say I learned from you back at the Lumarian fort."

Lyndis couldn't disagree, leaning with a gentle whine. “But it was my mum."

“And she's fine! No one got hurt!"

“Except the guards out there." Keerla sighed, shaking her head. “If only we'd been faster. Their poor knobs"

With all the evidence, and fact of their victory, Lyndis couldn't help but rest herself against the dragon's snout. Even if it had been an untested plan, it'd worked. Gently she stroked his jaw, up and around his pebbly scales until the dragon's eyes closed. “What you did was reckless and relied heavily on winging it. You're lucky it even worked."

“Sounds like just another day in your line of work." The dragon raised his brows until she sighed.

“Perhaps." But since everything worked…I'm proud of you."

That really warmed his scales. He rumbled and pressed to her, frills energetically flaring in and out as he held in a mighty warble. “Of course you are." He rose his head, gently brushing his chest with a paw. “With this growing power, everything will be solved in no time. Heck, maybe even the leader of the undead will be swayed. Wouldn't that be a charming thought." The room wasn't as aggregable as he thought. Keerla was shaking her head.

“Don't be counting your gryphons before they hatch." Lyndis countered, “Nor letting ego and arrogance lead that nose of yours around. We got lucky, great as that is, we can't rest on it all the time."

“Why not?" He shrugged, knowing the antics she and the others got up to. “Charging through a detachment of undead? Stealing from Entis? The rest of you seem to do it."

She shut her mouth, giving him narrowed eyes until he smirked. “Frequently forced to, but not all the time." She leaned against his scales, kneading softly with a caring heart. “Something is different about this. I got this twisting in my gut, like I'm about to leap from a cliff. We're not the only ones counting on our actions. One slip up and everything comes crashing down."

He of course knew this, didn't dampen his spirit at all. He pressed into her side, nuzzling away her concern. “And we won't fail. This was just another of your forced winging it instances."

“Suppose even something insightful can slither out of your snout." Lyndis sighed, “Course the mind boggles at what to do next?"

“I can think of a few things." He rumbled, shifting his haunches. She blushed as he licked her cheek, making his method of celebrating clearly known. He had gone months without her touch. “It will take some time for your mother to hammer out the details. Our next course of action can be decided then." He flopped to her bed with a hefty snort.

Keerla, who'd all been but forgotten rolled her eyes at the lovebirds. “Think that's my cue to leave." The elf chuckled, pressing open the door as she mumbled about getting the guards outside a round of healing at the local clerics of Sartren. “Should I have one on standby for you two?" Her eyes were filled with salacious intent.

“Wouldn't that be interesting." He rubbed his jaw, getting a swift smack upon his flank.

“Fine thank you." Lyndis replied.

“Suit yourself." Keerla gave a brief salute, flicking back her blonde hair. “Have fun with your humping!"

The door shut before Lyndis could reply proper, but Cordenth was left chuckling at her mere inches from the half-elf's nose. “Well you heard the woman." He rumbled, giving her a kiss. “We wouldn't want to make a liar out of her would we?"

“Later lewd boy." She pulled back, departing his nose with a final kiss.

Disappointed he huffed, ruffling her hair. “After weeks, you deny me?" He dramatically gasped. “How could you be so cruel? I know you burn for me as much as I for you."

“Some fresh air could do wonders." She shrugged, “Get a chance to stretch the legs. Some of us haven't seen anything but the inside of their tiny rooms." She leaned forward, rapping her knuckles along his scales before gesturing to the window. “Care to brighten a lady's mood?"

Like she needed to ask. He nodded and pulled her close, rumbling all the while. In a heartbeat she'd pulled a thick fur coat from her wardrobe and was racing him down the tower's steps to the beat of his clacking claws. It was when they burst free to the twilight air did her delight get put on full display. Weariness and concern shifted to joy and bliss as she smile from ear to ear. It was an aura of warmth that twisted outwards and wrapped around the dragon's soul. As she twirled around the beaten snow, he couldn't help but smile. What disappointment he had was whisked away to the chilly winds.

Cordenth stretched his wings, then tested them upon the air. Lyndis' touch whisked away the cold, replacing it with warmth. As snow danced around them her hands dragged thin lines down his flank, shivering down to the dragon's spine. When she neared his haunches she stopped to twirl, turning back to him with a wink. He huffed, clearly, he wasn't the only one with things on the mind. Lust was just as prominent in her.

“Well let's get to flying, shall we?" He fake growled, motioning her close with a wing. “Before you bring about something."

“And whatever would that be?" She mused, climbing onto his back with an innocent smile. “I think you're leaping to conclusions. Dangerous to do that you know, could lead to any number of things."

“In any other case I wouldn't argue." He wiggled his tail; paws kneaded the snow. “Though I think both of us know the road. Would my fair maiden enjoy a night flight?"

She only answered with weaving her arms across his neck, squeezing tight with the rest of her. Soft lips found his scales, “Well go on my handsome beast. Kiss the sky with those beautiful wings."

He rumbled, flaring his wings wide as delight warmed his scales.“With those compliments, I'll do anything you wish." With a radiant warble he pounced to the air, swiftly rising up in the frigid sky upon his sensitive membranes. Upwards he spiraled, guided by the frigidly cruel winds. With each breath they sought to slink beneath his scales, burrow deep into the marrow of his bones. Yet each flap they were thwarted, the company of his beloved proving a mighty hearth. With Lyndis on his back, everything else was secondary.

Her wants were his, her bouts of joy reflected within himself. When she pounded the air with her cheer, he roared for their freedom. Her red cheeks and honest smile were greater than any treasure he could ever conceive, a relief he'd not known in wrym's age. Around the darkened city they rose and fell, gliding along the wispy currents, counting the lanterns brought beacons of life to the cold, dead streets of the city. At Lyndis' beckoning Cordenth surged out from Tregaron's civilized reach, and sought out the vast untamed forests around them.

Over the forest of green and white, along the rock filled rivers he followed, rising and falling with the twilight laced countryside. Though only the whispering of the wind greeted them, both dragon and half-elf relished in their earned freedom. The stars overhead winked in glee for them, daring both to acts of jubilance in which they partook.

Around clouds they whipped, wings tilted and blood pumping. When she cried out in delight he dove, her coming tight grip spurring him on. Like dancers they twirled, round and round to an audience of thousands. Plights and chains that held weighted them down lay forgotten, leaving spirits to soar to untold heights. Could their be any greater happiness than sharing your flight with the one you loved? Neither one said anything to the contrary.

Minutes turned to hours as time lay forgotten between them. Eventually the cold creeped in as it was bound to do, chilling scale and bone alike. Fatigue brought them swirling back to the sprawling city, guiding them gracefully to the castle. Pegasus knight's watchful eyes followed their wings, yet Lyndis waved them off when they leaped up to investigate.

“Stop by the market." Lyndis chimed in, squeezing her thighs. “I think we need to get something."

At this hour? Cordenth looked to the castle, it's lights promising enchanting warmth to this night. Not to mention the rest filled in, pressed tight to his beloved. He could almost picture her tender strokes of his snouts as he rumbled in pure bliss. If she allowed him, that might end in a more passionate way. He tried to protest but she insisted, knocking at his scales. “What do you even want?"

Mischief flickered in her eyes as she tilted her head and tapped his scales. “Humor me. I'm sure you're love it."

“Lucky I adore you. Otherwise this insistence of being vague would prove bothersome." He tiled a wing, following the guidance of her finger. The place she had selected was pressed tight against the other darkened homes, it's butter shaded roof a stark contrast to the onyx and azure ones that surrounded it. Chimes hung along it's doorway, of course a bright crimson all lit by a hanging lantern on the street corner.

Cordenth landed, pinning his wings and sucking in at how tightly the streets pressed in at his sides. There was barely enough room for a single cart, let alone a dragon. He was able to breathe a great sigh as everything grew around him in a flash of smoke. “What do you even want in this tacky building?" He tilted his head as he made note of giant painted rings of gold upon the weathered wood.

“You didn't notice your neck was bare?" Lyndis stared down at him with a grin, crossing her arms tight.

Was it? Cordenth pressed his paw, realizing that she spoke truth. In all the misery that had fallen against him, this must have slipped through the cracks of his mind. His brow furrowed as she gently brushed the green sash around her waist. “Apologies of –“ To his fluttering frills she silence him with a kneel and gentle kiss.

“Wasn't fishing for guilt." She stood, brushing off her coat. “Though we do need to fix that problem. How else will we tell the difference between you and your brother."

“He does have a chipped horn and different markings."

“You know what I mean." She rolled her eyes, padding to the door. Evidently despite this hour, the place was still open.

“He does have wing tattoos now." Cordenth beamed as the rogue led them inside.

Inside was a forest of wool, linen and silks. Each of them a vibrant and practically radiating color. Across racks and wardrobes they lay scattered, piled high to the ceiling beams covered in pink pedaled flowers. Oversized chandeliers hung from the ceiling, crafted to look as though they were elves reaching out to hold the lit candles in their metal hands. They laced the room with a welcoming light yet shrouded the corners in darkness. The air brimmed with just as many perfumes, earthy, wooden, and even fruity ones blended together into a confusing haze that left the dragon's skull swirling. He nearly sneezed as his paw came down, a sneeze threatening to come next.

They pressed in, fabric brushing coat and dragon alike. There was hardly enough room for them to walk side by side. “Balin!" Lyndis called, lifting sleeves of coats so that Cordenth didn't have to shrink even further. “I need a favor!"

To their surprise came a sunelf from the racks of clothing, as if he'd been one coat among dozens. His skin was adorned in colorful depictions of animals and flames, all the way from head to toe. Clay like eyes fell upon them, wizened with numerous years. Shorter than Lyndis, the elf bowed his white haired head. “What do I owe the pleasure of having the princess and a dragon stroll into my humble shop?" Up he stood, hands composing his bright crimson attire. “I thought they grew larger than that."

“You've been around long enough to know they shape change. Don't be takin the piss Balin." Lyndis rolled her eyes, “Long story short, see that bare neck of his?" The elf's eyes followed her finger.

“Yes."

“Well this fella happened to have a ruddy nice scarf, blue and adored with white diamonds."

“I take it he lost it?" Balin stroked his bare chin. “Or perhaps clawed it to bits."

“The first one." Cordenth replied with a snort. “Who would claw it?"

The elf shrugged. “Cats knead things. I just figured it was the same."

“I'm certainly not a cat!"

“And yet you purr like one." Lyndis' crossed her arms. “Can you fix him with another one?"

Balin nodded, gesturing them to follow passed his maze of clothes. “Of course I can if you ask, but you must want something special if you come to me."

“It was just a scarf." Cordenth rolled his eyes. “How much more special can it get?"

The elf gasped. “Such ignorance on display, I'm half-way shocked! My good dragon, there are plenty of different fabrics. The fire forge stone weave of the foggy mountains or the wisterwind spellcloth used in that clan's cloaks, darn things can almost blend in with everything. On the subject, their village elders owe me quite the sum in platinum coins…"

“Fascinating history lesson there Balin, we'll come back for it another day. Perhaps with this one's twin brother." The elf only grimaced as he berated the dragon's claws upon the floor. “We need something that changes size with him."

They came to a stop in the middle of a circle of multicolored sweaters. Their itchy threads pushed in at all sides, that was until the sunelf twirled his wrist and insisted the retreat. At the clap of his hands the fabric darted back to their racks, crawling by themselves to fit into drawers. In but a heartbeat they were pleasantly alone. Balin murmured to himself, eyes searching them both. Over and over he paced, leaving the pair in silence. Only when they shared looks of confusion did he stop and snap his fingers. “Course I can solve your problem Lyndis. Granted you have the coin."

“You know I do." She smirked; victory achieved. “And not even from the coffers. After recent events I'd be surprised we're not cleaned out of every coin."

The elf swooped in, wandering gaze traveling all along Cordenth's every inch. As the dragon rose a forepaw, his inquisitive fingers were poking at him.

“May I help you?" The dragon pulled back.

Balin's reply was stern, the bluntness of a maul. “Doing as the lady says. You need to stay put my friend. Otherwise you might choke."

Choke? Frills flared in alarm as the sunelf clapped his hands. From the rafters dashed a crimson shape, a lengthy thin snake seeking the dragon's hide. Quick as lightning he slashed out with a paw, reducing it to ribbons. “What was the meaning of that?" He snarled, flaring out his wings.

The others were still calm. Lyndis herself was bubbling with laughter. Balin was groaning, looking mortified at the remains by Cordenth's paw. Perhaps he'd made a miscalculation? He looked down, finding not a magical snake, but a ribbon that'd been sliced in two. Along it was stitches of cloth, it was a measuring implement.

“Leave it to a dragon to slice before asking some questions." Balin groaned, “I knew I shouldn't have used the good one."

His frills pinned. Luckily, it was just a magical thread. He tapped the fabric, whispering a mending spell. In a breath the fabric had united, yet it didn't wiggle or shift. It appeared as though whatever enchantment had been about it was gone. He gave the elf an innocent smile, shrugging his wings. “I swear, we'll fix this if it meant anything to you."

“You needn't bother." Balin rolled his eyes, “Husband warned me about it with all the customer's sharpened claws." Up Balin rose, composing himself like a general. “No try to do as I say and not move. I'll be getting my measurements one way or the other."

Why did his voice sound so menacing? The poor dragon hadn't a chance to respond as the sunelf clapped his warning. From the rafters and each nook and cranny came a wiggling, slithering thread. They shot through the air as an angry cloud, billowing any fabric caught in their path. He tried to escape, he truly did, claws even dug up the floor as the rulers bombarded him like a pack of ravenous wolves. Around his limbs they pulled tight, twisting around his scales in every direction. Forelimbs were thrust down, his neck extended. It all ended as he was forced into a pronounced pose, every section of him wrapped in thread. He tried to pull himself free, but he had no leverage.

“Why would you ever need this many?" He grumbled, unable to life his paws bound to the floor.

“Evidently in the case of a troublemaking dragon." Balin shook his head.

Crouching to his side, Lyndis tenderly ran her palm from head to tail. “Just relax. If you keep squirming they wont stop."

“Lets see you tied up so you can't move." He continued to strain.

She just chuckled, “Perhaps at a later date. Who knew you were into that sort of thing?"

Hmmpf. He snorted and let himself go limp. “This is not a defeat. This is but an acceptance of things to come. I'd rather spend the night with you than fighting with this elf."

“Wise words." Balin nodded, descending with a clibboard and quill, scribbling measurements onto parchment.

Lyndis gently scratched his tiny chin as his bindings did slacken. Her arms wrapped tight the moment Cordenth was free, and leapt into her arms.

He nuzzled at her cheek, curling around his head to glare at the amused elf. “If everyone is going to tying me up. I'm not even sure I want to stay in this place."

“Just recently." She mused, “Though I'm not sure Balin here could be one that enjoys it."

Eyes twinkling the sun-elf retreated to a desk adorned in papers. “You'd have to ask the husband. He's quite fond of that sort of thing."

“Are you finished abusing dragons for your amusement?" Cordenth hissed.

“For now." He turned to Lyndis, “This one seems nice, do try to not chase him away."

“We've already tried it." Lyndis shot back with a grin. “Handsome blighter keeps flying back."

“That's just your fault." Cordenth rumbled at the compliment. “Stop reminding me of your apparent wealth. Its quite alluring." For that he got a gentle bat on the snout, to which he returned the favor with a nuzzle. That destroyed her act, earning him a sigh and press back into his motions. “See?"

Convinced, Balin arranged the delivery without any problems. It would only take a few days for the completion of the order. “Try not to break the package." He wagged a finger at the dragon.

“Unless it tries to assault me, you have nothing to fear." He replied, swishing his tail. “Otherwise." He let the elf focus on a solitary claw. “To ribbons with it." Despite the coming roll of the eyes, he at least knew the elf understood. With a snort and held head, he and Lyndis departed into the cold night.

Through the abandoned streets they soon found themselves. The lone wind traced it's icy claws across stone and scale alike. Banners fluttered in it's wake, chimes echoed their soft call. Dragon and human pulled close, fighting off the coming chill. Yet despite the tantalizing hearth that awaited them back at the castle, Lyndis insisted they remain.

“It can't be all that bad to simply take it all in." She smiled, pulling Cordenth tight. Her cheeks were already the brightest of reds. Either she couldn't feel how deep the cold wound itself, or simply being free fought it off.

Cordenth winced and shrugged. Frills pinned as they begged for warmth, but the sparkle in his princess' eye was more than enough to cast it from his mind. He silently pressed on with her, slowly taking in the streets once filled with numerous peoples. He pictured them, years from now when he and Lyndis had taken rulership of this place. Already banners bearing both their likenesses flickered to life before his eyes. He could hear songs, corners calling out the politics they'd found themselves in. More importantly, the shadows of dragons soaring overhead. His kind never looking over their shoulder, waiting for a spear or axe to befall them.

“Why must we use our paws?" His snout wrinkled as they passed the darkened windows of a church to Nutambar the god of nature. It's hardened oak exterior a bulwark against the snow laced wind. Inside he caught sight of a roaring fire, the elven clerics all huddled around with their arms outstretched. Some bowed their elegant heads in prayer.

“Here I thought you'd enjoy the sights." Lyndis' teeth chattered, gently pulling his horned head away from their pristine window.

“Not when the cold digs at my side like a knife." He flicked his tail as the cold sent a shiver down his entire frame.

“Hmmpf. Least you got some semblance of freedom." She spun around, gesturing to all the snow dotted structures, the ice encrusted windows, fluttering banners with all a manner of heraldry. Even such mundane things were beautiful to her now. She found a lantern-post, swinging around it with a grin. “Even if it'll freeze a gryphon's balls off, I'll take that over being stuffed in that room again."

He winced, guilt gnawing at his insides. He should have told her about his plan. When she fell silent and her stride slowed, he closed the distance and pressed against her. For minutes, the only sounds to greet them were the gentle tap of her boots and clack of his claws. In her face was the weight of their many weeks. She finally stopped as they passed below a towering arc of engraved stone. One more natural than the others. It was as if the very stone had been molded and pressed into shape. Even the usual signs of magical tampering could not be found.

“Just hated being useless. Having that choice and freedom taken away." She sighed and clicked her fingers, “Just like that, all the years taken away. All on the order of my dear ole loving mum knowin better for me." She stared up to the cloud filled skies, drifting away to older days. “Should have seen them back in the day. When I was running off into the night to gods knows where. Mother would be a wreck, father angrier than he let on. They'd have scores of soldiers looking for me. Not that they found me of course." She drooped her head, falling into a morose silence.

That wouldn't do, he was supposed to be keeping her spirits afloat. “Hey." He nudged at her. “Is it not you who said to find the light in the dark? It may not have been fully on her own, but she did change her mind! Just look right now, you're here with me and she doesn't know! " He gestured to the empty rooftops with his wings. “And by the gods, not a single guard in sight."

She scoffed, giving him a narrowed gaze, “Think I should be happy over that little trick? Only reason she gives a damn is cause your spell."

“Not spell." He swelled his chest, placing a paw to the scales. “Natural dragon charms." He grinned as snorted and rolled her eyes. “You might laugh, but it is true. The results speak for itself."

“Think it will last do ya?" She kicked the street with a bitter laugh. “Mark my words. When senses return to her noggin, shes gonna rethink everything."

He hadn't thought of that. His paw tentatively hit the street. Was all this just false optimism on his part? With his next stride, the high he'd been drifting on sunk lower than the nine hells. “She'll keep her word." He mumbled, convincing himself more than her. “Isn't that what your people are known to do? What your…father would have done?"

“Look around. Mother isn't him is she." Lyndis' replied bitterly, crossing her chest. “I bet in that head of yours, you want me to take the focken job."

While appealing to be sure, he fought off the impending rumble. Not only would be rude, it might hurt her feelings. He swallowed and fluttered his frills. “At a later date perhaps. You've a great many things to accomplish first. Hardly seems fair to thrust you into the throne of responsibility so soon. Though if you don't mind me saying, I could see you being a great Queen one day." He batted his eyes at her with a grin. To his amusing rumble she halfheartedly pushed away his snout.

“Oh come on. Me?" She rolled her eyes, fighting off a smile. When his snout returned, she rested a tender palm upon it. The air was suddenly aglow with their warmth, staring into the other's eyes. “How is it you managed to say such a wise thing? Did your mother truly get to you?" When he only chuckled she rolled her eyes, playfully smacking his cheek. “Ah, so it's the ulterior motives your after."

“Not in the slightest." He mused, curling around her as she pretended to not want his attention. His snout poked and prodded at her several times as she gently shoed him away. With each time there was a slight giggling under her breaths. “I only care about having you there with me. I want you happy above all else."

Their lips met with hardly an effort as the half-elf pulled him in. He rumbled as she sighed. The cold around them seemed little consequence. When they parted, their eyes were trapped within one another. Foreheads pressed together as their eyes closed. “Though talk of this queen business, I hope it's far in the future." Lyndis sighed, massaging his jaw. “All that responsibility? Lives hanging on your every word?" She squeezed him tight, shivering as she seemed to shrink. “You did me a favor convincing her."

“Don't think you could do it now?" He pulled back with a tilted head. She'd always seemed so take charge, eager to throw herself into tests or challenges. Surely, she would excel if given the chance. Besides, her mother had already messed things up without his powers. “As you said, you thought you had to replace your mother until now."

“Could I?" The words hung on the air as she avoided his gaze. “Possibly." She grimaced, “But would I wish to? No focken way."

“What about my mother's prophecy?" He coughed, wincing as she glared at him.

“I thought you'd not be so keen on letting someone choose your own fate for you."

His snout shut. That much was true. This entire time they'd spent trying to stop an outcome they didn't agree with. Was it so right to force Lyndis into accepting her proper place. Cordenth sighed, nuzzling tenderly at her cheek. There would be years to convince her, numerous nights to talk. For now he just needed her to not hate the idea. “Then let us drop it, go back to what we said. It will be many seasons before you must take the mantle anyway. Today and the weeks beyond we concern ourselves with a single thing, saving Struport and our friends."

“Exactly." She snapped her fingers with a smirk. “See? You got a head on that neck of yours. Now come, I got something else to show you." She gestured over her shoulder, suddenly racing across the street to a walled off section with an iron gate. A padlock secured the cold, frosted steel, but it proved no barrier for his beloved. She scaled the stone without missing a breath, slinging her legs onto the other side.

“Should we return to the castle?" He asked, brow raised as she gave him an amused look. “Oh, don't give me that. You would love a roaring hearth and cuddling close as much as I."

“First off, everyone would like that. Two I still wanted to share something. You brought me about First off, everyone would like that. Two I still wanted to share something. You brought me about your home, now you get to see mine. Three, you act like we won't be cuddling."

He wrinkled his snout as she knew she had him by the frills.

“What ya waiting on twinkle paws? Permission?" Lyndis slipped from the stone, boots clacking on the other side. “Don't make me do it without you. Defeats the entire point."

He grumbled at her extortion, but complied. A night resting with her was worth any price to pay. Even if it was spending more time in the cold than he'd like. Up he leapt, claws digging into the stone as he dragged himself up and over to the other side. The dragon jumped down, landing into a pile of fresh powder that exploded into a wintery cloud around him. As she giggled to herself at all the snow clinging to him he shook it off. “There." He snorted, hitting her face with his chilly breath, “Lead the way my beloved. Lest of course we find ourselves afflicted with terrible case of deathly cold."

“So dramatic." She leaned in to kiss upon his grumbling snout. “You'll have me thinkin this is a play next. Whose going to pop out next, the phantom? I expect front row seats!" She gracefully strut away across the packed snow, not even leaving a trace of her passing. It must have been the elf in her, for when Cordenth followed and sunk with every step.

Around them were statues of towering humans, clothed in regal robes and crowns. They were stoic, larger than a dragon and each of them carried a weapon or had their arms at rest. Blank expressions gazed out towards the city streets or the stars above, an aura of importance lingering in the snow speckled air. Cordenth stood frozen, swearing their stone eyes followed along his scales. “Did we have the same family and not know?" He snorted, gesturing to the statues. “Don't tell me, they were really giants that tried to attack and your family had them turned to stone."

Both snorted at the dark humor of his mother's captured criminals. Lyndis waved him off and composed herself.

“Hardly. They're the old rulers of the kingdom. Built to inspire future generations for all time." With a gentle tug of Cordenth's horn the princess lead him tentatively through a worn path along the base of this forest of stone “For generations they say my bloodline has kept us safe, guided our people through times of peril."

“Yet I know stories other than these here that have helped." He stopped to pat the sturdy boots of a king gazing off to the sky. “Where is the dragons among their number? Where is the statue for Ramakox?"

“I asked the same question when I was smaller." Lyndis slid to him, her hands resting on his forepaw. “Perhaps one day their will be." She smiled at him, eyes twinkling in the light.

“Now whose counting on foresight." He rumbled, nudging her nose with his.

“Oh? I never imagined that would come forth." Lyndis gasped and covered her lips, shrinking away when he reached out. A playful smile was his only hint as she dramatically strolled away. “To think that after all these weeks, your affections have dulled."

He smirked and would play this little game. “Ah, but it not my affections that have dulled my sweet. It is your attitude towards us dragons that has changed. I've seen that look you give Jeriah, the one that speaks of being smitten."

“That buffoon. Don't be bloody serious." Lyndis slipped away, mere inches from an outstretched paw. “I have higher standards than that."

“Like a dragon perhaps?" He smirked, flicking his tail.

“Only because his abilities are lacking, his tongues not skilled." Lyndis twirled her finger, smirking. “I suppose a test could make my affections return. No guarantees you understand."

He nodded, curling around the woman as she pretended to be as cold as the wind. “Name your test half-elf and bear witness to how easily it is crushed by a dragon." He swelled his chest, tapping at the scales. “There is no better mate than I."

Forward she flowed, fingers tracing along his frame. With a mere touch Cordenth was shivering, eyes following eagerly as she paced around him. When she returned to his front, she caught his snout, holding it inches from her face. “The sheer hubris on display!" She laughed in a mocking way, “You think you could win my affections?"

“I assure you I could." He boasted, trying to bat her with a paw. Yet she pulled away at the last moment.

“Then let's see if you can catch what you want!" Lyndis shouted, bolting off through the snow, leaving nothing but a mist of powder to follow.

Roaring in delight Cordenth gave chase, his heart pounding in delight. Around the forest of towering stone, the chase continued unabated. Boots were a blur as the dragon's snout delightfully nipped at their heels. Warbles and rumbles flowed like water through the dragon's lips as his beloved always stayed just a paw swing away. Even when he thought he had her, she slipped easily out of reach. Snow was kicked. Stones were scuffed. To any passerby, it would have appeared to be a terrible sight.

“What's the matter mate?" Lyndis mocked, sliding around the stone dress of one of her kin. “Can't show a girl a good time?"

“Let me catch you and you'll find out!" He rumbled, catching himself from slipping. “Though why run? We both know you want me to get you."

Like that Lyndis screeched to a halt, staring up to a statue with robes, arms spread wide. It was an woman, a necklace resting around her pristine surface. Upon the rogue's face was a solemn look, one that had spent many nights sitting, looking up at these towering giants wondering how she could possibly live up to them.

Cordenth struggled to stop, nearly sliding head over paw to the stone. He padded around her, frills twitching on why the game had suddenly ended. “And why did we stop?"

“Used to come here many a night, losing myself to all these stones. Hell, lookin at all their stoic faces? They saved me they did."

“You? Spend looking up to them?" He scoffed with an amused tilt of the head. “You take me for a fool."

“Surprised?" She gestured to the statue of an armor-clad woman, raising an open palm to the sky. Lyndis pretended to bolt with a laugh, nearly causing Cordenth t leap right after her with a growl.

“So, tense!" She slid right through his paws with a laugh. 'This game is for fun!"

“Then let me catch you!"

“You haven't already?" She winked, and he returned with a playful growl and renewed swatting of his paws. “I weep for whatever female bears your offspring."

Oh, that really wove its way to his scales. Here he thought she was opening up into an emotional moment, but it was all to continue their game. With warming blood he redoubled his efforts, pulverizing the snow in his chase. “Funny words coming from you my little elf. I will have the greatest of offspring, and my mate most beautiful in all the land. All shall gaze upon her and weep!"

“Because how ugly she is?" Lyndis snorted, tumbling back to chuck a snowball that splattered against the dragon's snout.

“Grahhh." He growled, casting aside the snow. With a flick of his tail he'd shoved her off balance with a wave of powder. He rushed in, relishing his coming victory. When his paw came down to pin her, it was not what he thought. Instead of Lyndis, it revealed itself to be a collection of snow hidden by an illusion. He'd been tricked! Snapping his head to a mocking giggle he gave chase once more.

“That was so close! I think that deserves more explanation."

“Of your insistence to tease me?" He rumbled, “Do go on. It will make the victory so much more rewarding."

Behind a statue she spun, coming to a stop before a solid slab of stone. Upon it rested a statue of onyx, a king clutching tight a sword upon his fallen form. Lyndis stood still, gesturing to him. “Since you think it ridiculous, know this. Where would be the last place you'd think to find me?"

Her playful smirk rolled his eyes. When she put it like that this choice was obvious?.

“Now you got it." She gently slid to the side as he tried to tap her. “It put plenty of things in perspective." Skilled fingers wracked against the cold stone. “Honor, duty, dedication. So many legends and stories in my bloodline. Sometimes I think I've been reciting them since I could speak."

“Honor? Duty? You sound like a knight we both know." He started to pace as she did so, the coming silence only broken by the gentle crunch of snow.

“Yes and no." She waggled an open hand. When he tried to pull her closer his paw passed right through her. This was an illusion! Where did she go? Frills flaring the dragon spun around, kicking up the snow as his beloved's voice giggled all around him. “Another trick?"

“Think I'd make this game easy for you?"

“Here I thought you were sharing."

“Oh I am. Just not losing this game you've started. Think Cordy, where would I be if I let just anyone catch me. I have a reputation to keep."

He snorted; eyes narrowed as he searched through the piles of snow that lay scattered about the ground. Every bush or scattered tree was just another hiding place unless she was also invisible. “I guess I'm captive to your exposition." He snorted, taking a deep breath of the air. It was crisp and cold, but hidden within was the flowery scent of Lyndis' room. Tentatively he approached, purposely moving his head away. “Well continue, I'm all ears. What did you think of such things?"

“I knew It wasn't for me. Thousands of lives living or dying on your decisions?" Her words trailed off as the rogue lost herself. “Better off without it. Nothin but chains to hold you down."

“Chained? Bound?" His snout wrinkled. “You'd be ruling over your people. Guiding them into the future. Your word would be law, how could that not be the very definition of freedom?"

Her tone grew quiet, close behind a skeleton like tree. “Sometime a child is freer than a queen you know. A gilded cage is still a cage Cordenth. Look at all the choices I've made. Each one resulted in someone getting hurt or killed." There was silence. “How could I do that on a kingdom wide scale?"

“With experience from the past." He fluttered his frills, slowly taking a step. “I'm probably the last person to speak, but I think your doubts are normal, your fears healthy."

Behind the tree came a scoffing laugh. “A queen terrified of her choices. Frozen with indecision over what should be done. That sounds bloody fantastic."

“Then why even come here?" His head tilted, “Why not leave your people to their fate?"

Silence lingered in the air. The point settled to the rogue's heart. “How could I?"

“Cause you care." He took a tentative step, the game far from his mind. He even caught sight of what could be an invisible limb, but he stayed his paw. “Just look at someone like my mother. Sends others to give their lives with little pity or remorse. Yet you give pause, consider, doubt. Each life lost weighs heavily on you. I think that marks the sign of a leader. Someone strong to look up to."

“Or I'm still the wandering spirit. Unwilling to be held down and forced to conform. Only reason we're here is because of her piss poor job. Once everything's back on track I couldn't give a toss." Her spell faded away as he caught her eye. The rogue was leaning on the tree, letting the wind billow her clothes. Her face was a troubled see as he pressed in at her. “After this is all done. I think I'm going to give up my right to throne. Would you be fine with that?"

He took a deep breath. It was but a small thing, he insisted internally it wouldn't matter. So what if he had a dream to make things better for dragons across Sethera? That could still be done without a title of king or lord. All those ideas were planted in by his mother and her schemes. “I could manage."

Could he though? The silence was deafening as he mulled it over. His mother's plans and schemes for them would truly shatter. They'd decide what their futures would be, even that part that amused his scales. Deep down he longed to wretch as he repeated himself. “Long as I had you and the other…I could manage."

She gently smiled, resting a hand atop his snout. “What about creating a safer world for dragons? Where they would not live in the shadow of Lumara, hunted as evil beasts?"

The air seemed colder with his next breath. “We would simply find another way. It might take some effort, but I think we could manage. Scores of adventurers and fine people we meet would have to account for something." He gave a weak grin, “Wouldn't be so bad I imagine."

“Comforting to hear you say that." She gently pressed his snout to her lips. “Maybe they will listen." Up went her brow as he chuckled deep in his throat. “What's so funny with you?"

“I caught you." He licked her face, earning a rightful smack to the snout.

“OH MY GODS!"

“I got you!" He warbled, leaping around. Snow scattered and sprayed all around her.

“I open up, have a heart to heart and you continue the game?"

The dragon simply grinned, flicking his tail as he coiled around her. True her frustration and anger would have troubled him, but that glint in her eye revealed she wasn't too cross. “And I will cherish the heart to heart believe you me." He held up a paw, “However, was it not you who said the game was ever to continue? I was only following orders you see, and as you just bore witness too…I won."

“If ya wanted to kill me with cuteness, you're doing a piss poor job."

“Am I not cute enough for a shadowy rogue?" he pinned in his frills, sheepishly snaking his snout towards her. His eyes went wide, he even whined. Each second of her hardened look he could feel her crumbling. When she halfheartedly shoved him away he warbled his victory.

“Oh fock you're focken face!" She cackled as she crouched, gathered some snow and shoved it into his warbling snout. Like that she bolted away. “And thus, the chase began anew!"

“Could you not?" He spat out the snow, shaking free the rest. What had gotten into her? By the time he went to ask she'd struck him again. Perhaps this was a way to work through her anxiety? As she hit him a third time, he gave chase with a laugh in his stride. “Keep it up and I'm going to smash your face into that snow!"

“Hopefully, the fun way huh?" She winked back, racing along a thin wall of stone. “Might even warm things up!"

The dragon stopped in place; his predatory gaze never left the swaying form of his beloved. Muscles trained to hunt twitched, his tail curled. Even a playful growl left his lips. “I dare you to do it again mortal, find out what happens when you test the mettle of-“

Another snowball struck him dead between the eyes, Lyndis bolted away. “Let's flip that coin!"

“You blasted harpy!" He hollered, bounding after her heels.

Their little battle lasted round and round through the forest of these ancient rulers. The snow filled air was enchanted by giggling laughter of them both. Snow was scattered, claws nearly snagged cloth, curses and playful jabs flowed like wine. Eventually by his skill or her pity, Lyndis collapsed to the snow, laughing as Cordenth clambered over her with a grin.

“I think I win."

“Or I let you." She countered, tapping his nose. “In the end, does it matter?"

They both knew it didn't. Cordenth dipped his head, eyes drifted close as he trapped her in a deep and passionate kiss. Spirits soared as they jousted with tongues, emotions bleeding with every breath. Troubles and tribulations all burned away, leaving only the purity of their joy for each other. Hands wove their way to his cheeks, tenderly caressing his scales as the dragon's tail swished happily behind him. Who cared the cold creeped ever deeper through scale or jacket? All they needed was one another.

*

Promises of heat and a night of cuddling practically pulled the dragon back to the castle. He was a green blur against the dark, cloud filled sky. His landing was disorganized and frantic as the frigid stone and snow kissed at his paws. They were clutching each other as they scampered to her tower, flurries of white powder licking at their heels

Claw clicks and her boots sounded across the walls as they raced foot over boot up the stairs. Half-way up they nearly borrowed over a pair of servants, forcing the pair of love birds to apologize. They departed with a request blurting out from Lyndis' lips over a pleasing meal to be shared. One that she insisted would be on her request, instead of forced upon like a child.

“And a bottle of wine I suppose." She grinned, stroking Cordenth's frill. “Well, maybe a bucket for him."

“A bucket miss?" A maid chuckled.

“She insists I have a problem." Cordenth grinned.

Without another word the frisky pair bolted up the stairs, burst through Lyndis' door so that it slammed through the hall. His tail pushed it shut, the lanterns were swiftly lit, and Cordenth brought flames to the empty fireplace with a wave of his paw. He coiled up upon her rug, flopping to his belly and watching the captivating dance of the orange-red flames. Lyndis had strolled to her ward-drobe, already slipping free of her snow dusted attire.

“Amazing what a flight can do after weeks of confinement." The princess sighed, flicking through her various garments. They were royal things, stitching and cloth of the finest material. Each made her nose wrinkle, her eyes glare. When he peered back, her expression softened with a heavy sigh. “I'd like to add how proud of you I am. Who'd have thought it would have been you of all people to get it done." She chuckled and proceeded to lean over in an alluring manner. “Wasn't it you the one activating traps back in your mother's temple?"

He shifted, tail coiling as a warmth spread about his blood. It certainly wasn't from the fire as he couldn't keep his keen eyes off her. Each move she made was almost exaggerated, concocted to entice him to act. When she was testing her breast in a mirror, he was certain she was teasing him. “Have you not found something to cloth yourself in?" He interjected, kneading the floor beneath him.

“See something you like dragon?" Lyndis shot back with a grin, wearing nothing but a thin bra and lacy undergarments. They hid nothing of her bare flesh, and drove a lustful spike between his legs.

“Of course." He huffed, his frills beyond his control. It was all he could do to not reach out and rip off what little clothing she had. Even the way she smelled was like a drug with every breath, it warmed the blood, curled his tail. He was certain he was going mad. “There has not been a treasure more appealing than you."

“Isn't that rather romantic." She chuckled, plucking up a loose-fitting night gown. It was old, navy, and clearly one of her own instead of the usual royal attire. “I see a caring dragon, who yearns for so much greatness. Yet he's willing to put aside his pride for what needs to be done. A caring mate. Which, what do you think?" She waved to her sparse garments with a mischievous smirk.

“I think if you keep teasing me." He closed his eyes as instinct burned his blood. It was lucky he wasn't already unsheathed and dripping in the air. “I'll be forced to pull you close, tear off whatever garments you have and ravish you."

The princess blushed, pretending to wave the heat flowing off her cheeks. “Oh my Cordy, what a salacious thing to pronounce. Sounds like a you problem. I'm only getting dressed!" She bent over in a non so subtle fashion, giving the flustered a dragon an unimpeded view of her thin womanly lips. She started to slip into her nightgown. “Call yourself a gentle dragon? Focken hell."

Oh how composed he was, the perfect image of a gentledragon. Yet inside a blithering mess that couldn't move. Blood was warm, his heart out of control with it's beats, everything was calling out to make a move. So he did, albeit with a trembling paw. His target, her haunches in which to grope. So he did. She shot up, cheeks burning, smacking at his paw.

“Oi. Can't you see a woman getting dressed?" Despite the harshness of her eyes, she wore a playful expression.

“How can I resist?" He rumbled, fluttering his eyes. “You push and pull at instinct, you're practically begging to be mounted."

“Is that so?" She removed her top, putting her luscious breasts on display. Perky and fair, they were lighter than the rest of her. Nipples were dark and perky, staring back at the dragon that they held in captivation. They appeared soft and malleable, he could fit his whole paw over if he tried. “So where do you go from here? I'm curious." Oh how that loving dare ignited a fire deep within his soul.

“You get a lust filled beast." He growled, slinking closer. It was inevitable he could feel himself become unsheathed. Patience was tossed to the side as he gave the rogue a well-deserved playful growl. He wrapped her with his paw, dragging her into a rumble filled kiss. They smirked and chuckled as they wove themselves around each other. Her hands stitching themselves to his snout, pulling him deeper into her groaning kisses. His paw drifted lower and groped again at his deserved half-elf's haunches.

She didn't recoil at his tender touch, instead moving into it. Her groan was sweet and alluring, only spurring him on to continue. Their passion flowed with every movement, swirled through the blood. The air itself was alive with their sounds, of eager pants and gentle gasps. With every breath was only the taste of their combined lust, thick and mesmerizing to behold. His cheeks were the deepest green they'd ever been, only if to match the aroused tinting of red about her skin.

“I want to warn you." He pulled away, thin strands of saliva falling from their lips. “I've not been with one so small in quite some time. It might be an awkward affair."

“How forward of you." She leaned into him, “Cute though that you think it will go that far."

“Don't give me that." He snorted, ruffling her chestnut locks, getting a giggle. “We both know where this is heading."

Her fingers curled seductively around his eyes as they stared lovingly into one another. “You're shape changed to a proper size, you'll be fine."

“Yea, but rather large in contrast to human males." His frills pinned, gesturing back to his still hidden maleness.

She only chuckled with a roll of her eyes, pulling him close against her breasts. They were almost hotter than the fireplace. “You and every male I've ever met."

“Each one?" He snickered.

She nodded, tapping his forehead. “Just take it slow and have patience." She kissed him upon the snout. “You'll do fine."

His neck frills flicked up as he pulled her in, a confident rumble passing through his throat. Their lips soon found each other once more, her hands wove themselves to his scales. He groped and mauled her haunches, as they lost themselves to the crackling flames. Eventually she'd guided him to his back as she straddled him atop his chest. Gentle smacks came with every breath as they traded spit back and forth. She leaned back as he groped her haunches, earning a pleasured moan.

Cordenth smirked, “You like the mauling?" The teasing was a whisper as he flicked his tongue across her belly button.

Her lip was bit as she nodded. When he did it again, she rocked and grinded against his scales. So of course, he continued with a satisfied grin, gasping when she grabbed hold of his horns to steady herself. With every motion they got louder, softly building with every passing stroke. Unburdened by reservation he licked upon her, tracing all the way to her nipple. It was hard as steel yet coiled her with a mere touch. As she quivered, he couldn't help but huff and smirk, continuing with his pleasurable assault.

Up went his paws to hold her steady as Cordenth subjected her to his attention. Long, passionate licks across her body. When he found her breasts, he lingered until she was shivering, uttering his name in a barely maintained whisper. It spurned him on, quickened his breath, and roused his throbbing spire. It dripped, twitched, the ridges practically flexing. It demanded attention, swearing to sheath itself in his waiting mate.

She peered back on a daring lick, he brushed the edge of her undergarment. Amber eyes twinkled with salacious intent, as a single bead of desire trickled down its pulsating head. It was larger than most men she'd seen and would prove quite the challenge. Either by passion or lust, she was dripping, already eager to see how much she could take. She gasped and pulled him tighter, almost soaking her garments with need.

Prompted with delightful gasps, the dragon's claws shredded her poor garments. Yet both paid those little facts any mind. His warm breath flickered across her warming flesh, stirring months of need to the surface of their beings. With Cordenth's tongue and tender touch, he played the rogue like an elegant harp. With but a flick Lyndis would moan or twist, unbashfully bringing voice to her desires.

She spun within his grip, crawling with intent towards his waiting flesh. It pulsed, winked, was waiting for her delightful touch. She reached out firmly grasped, turning the tables of power in her favor. It was Cordenth's turn to hiss and clench his eyes as dutiful hands stroked and caressed with the care of an expert. Every ridge was massaged, his head tenderly brushed. The dragon's tail curled upward as he gave voice to her every passion filled thrust between her palms.

Huffing the green dragon was mad with desire, every inch of him was hot with need. She had him right where she wanted him and he was captivated in pleasure. Up and down her gentle rhythm radiated off the walls, only drowned out by deep groans of pleasure. He was pawing at the air when she stopped, departing his twitching maleness with a deep and passionate kiss.

“Not yet." She whispered, as part of him demanded he thrust her head back down to finish.

Yet Cordenth held himself in check, eyes locked to the dripping, glistening, moist lips ever so close to him. With a slurp he knew exactly how to get her back. He pulled her back, gently as he could and plunged his tongue into her. Her coming groan was music to his ears, not to mention how she trembled and quivered against his scales had him rumbling.

Turnabout was fair play as the tables were turned once more. Lyndis was the one with a red face, pleasure painted in every crease. Her fingers trembled as she dragged them over Cordenth's scales as he wiggled and teased her deepest points. Unable to pull back she was held in place, forced to writhe in debased pleasure. For minutes he teased and held her on the precipice of pleasure, every high leaving her quaking, drooling with desire, begging for more. Yet he held off, only bringing it home when she was flustered, beyond reason, words fitted with begs. The coming crescendo rebounded off the room's walls as she squeezed the life out his snout. He was slathered in her juices by the time it was done, weakly gasping with every dutiful slurp.

“But it appears you have a problem." The red-faced woman seductively cooed, slipping from his grasp to now have him beg. It wasn't exactly hard, he was throbbing madly with desire, and she knew exactly which ridge to caress with finger or tongue to have him squirming, tail tapping as pleasure swirled and squeezed right through him.

She silenced him with a kiss, melting to his snout. With his help she was guided lower, carefully suspended over his waiting spade like head. Her lips practically kissed it, even now was dripping in time with his secretions of pre. “Ready?" Eyes were filled with need, yet carefully so. One wrong move and she might be injured. This was going to be a slow and gentle road. One that most likely where he'd be tightly squeezed to no end.

He nodded and, on her word, gently pushed. Warmth unknown to him creased and spread, wrapping tight his throbbing head. Together they pressed, their combined fluids guiding them lower. Their pace was slow, filled with pleasured grunts and groans. She was like velvet, warmer than a dragoness, and felt as though she was trying to squeeze the life out of him. Cordenth's frills fluttered uncontrolled as they ceased at his first ridge, allowing his beloved to adjust.

“How is it?" He smiled, groaning as she replied with a squeeze.

“Could ask you that." She panted, gently stroking his paw. Clearly the effort was extensive, but with every pulse she'd groan or shiver in delight. He leaned forward and kissed upon her lips, whispering she was doing fantastic.

“Ready for more?" He whispered, nearly warbling as she nodded, and they gently brought her down the next few ridges. They were wrapped in pleasure the entire time, unable to form a coherent sentence. Passion and grunts were their only language as they pulled her up, and brought her down with a lewd squish. Like that their rhythm was established, not a fast one by any means. But it tickled his scales, left him panting, and trapped them both in a state of pure bliss. She was heaven to him, fit almost perfectly as they continued that in no time at all she was descending all the way, grinding at his swollen knot.

How tight she had him, with every grind or thrust their pleasures reaching further heights. They shivered, moaned each other's names and were soon knocking at the door of their climaxes. The room was heavy with their lust, reorganized with their passion. Thin lines were on her skin, evidence of his eager passion. With clenched eyes they both gasped and warned of their coming end.

It came slow, rumbling deep within his scales. Hotter than a volcano it stirred, bubbling and poised to surge. Lightning struck him as he pulled her tight, his back arched. Stars burst from his eyes as she shared in on his pleasure. Sticky, hot cum burst within her velvet vice, painting every inch of her insides white. He grit his teeth as he huffed, holding on for dear life as she joined him, squeezing and clenching tight to swallow every loving drop. She was his.

Slowly they descended from their passion filled highs. Guided by their gasping breaths, gentile touch and pleased smiles on either one of their faces. Though his scales were a soaked mess, it was of little concern as Lyndis cuddled close under a tender forepaw. They shared a few more trembling kisses, both still drifting on their tingling senses.

“Don't know why you were so hesitant." Lyndis sighed, her cheeks to his chest. “Seemed well enough to me."

He sighed and stared to the shifting light of the ceiling, pleased with how calm and safe her heartbeat made him. How he could spend each night with her pressed to his side, lovemaking, or no. Each moment he would be enriched with it. “Only because your willingness to take me. Most arousing I must say."

She chuckled weakly, nudging at his scales. “Only missing one thing."

Perking up he nosed in at her cheek. “And what would that be?"

“Next time we're trying for the knot."

“That can certainly be arranged." He rumbled, placing a tender kiss upon her weary lips.

Stricken by fatigue and massaged by the tender flames, consciousness proved to be a taxing thing. They held each other close, eye lids growing heavier by the moment as they silently basked in each other's company. They whispered their love to one another before falling victim to sleep's alluring embrace, with only their fire to keep them safe from the howling winds outside.

Dreams came to Cordenth as not nightmares of their coming deeds, but of pleased moments that awaited them should they succeed. The countryside lay bright and cheery, whole fields of green dotted with flowers and other plants as far as the eye could see. The sky was bright and filled with whispery clouds, the mountains beckoned the dragon to flight. The land was prospering, he could see the citizens tending to their fields. From a noble perch the dragon sat smiling. Lyndis was seated by his side, reading stories to three wide eyed wrymlings with swaying tails. Their green scales shimmered in the light, their membranes flickered, each of them ferreted away from their usual roughhousing games by his beloved's enchanting words.

The dragon sighed and looked to the horizon, catching sight of Veledar and Arcturus soaring high upon the sky. Though he couldn't see their faces he could hear the pure joy drifting on the wind. It filled Cordenth's chest with pride. Thanks to him the kingdom had been spared, his friend's futures secured. He adjusted a golden circlet on his head, made specifically for dragon-kind, though a near perfect mirror of Lyndis' own. Everything was right in this bright future, and he knew it was just the start. The green dragon grinned, warbling his delight to the summer's day, knowing nothing could ever take this from him.

*

They awoke the next morning in each other's arms, the gentle rays of the sun flooding through the blinds. They whispered and chuckled to one another, basking in each other's warmth. He nuzzled at her cheek, she caressed his scales. Everything was as it should be. They knew work had to be done, that their quest renewed, but to separate now was unthinkable.

“I think I might perish." He giggled, getting a reward of a slap and a kiss.

Interruption came in the form of a swift knocking at the door. The queen as it turned out was making an announcement. One of great importance that she insisted the pair of them be there for.

“What is it for?" Lyndis' shouted, thrusting herself into a tight royal dress. One adorned in much blue and gold stitching. “Did she say?"

Evidently it was being kept a guarded secret from at least the servants. Yet Cordenth suspected it wasn't anything to be worried about. They hadn't sent guards so that at least was a good sign. It must just be a formal announcement of their coming aid to Struport. As Lyndis applied the thick ivory makeup he was all smiles, relishing in satisfaction over his success. Even the disappointment of their interruption was dulled.

They were brought by carriage to the center square, Cordenth getting a chance to ride along in a smaller form. Scores of people had already been gathered, important merchants and guild members already on full display. Each of their pampered faces was one of confusion, muttering onto one another for what possibly their queen could have planned. The numerous races of the citizens was equally as confused.

When Cordenth emerged with Lyndis he of course assumed his true form. While several people were shocked in the crowd, most cheered and hollered in surprise. Either they'd been warned of his coming, or those in charge had built up his coming. Either way, the dragon beamed at all the attention. What dragon wouldn't love a crowd of adoring fans?

“Careful there, your head might explode." Lyndis nudged at him, waving a aquamarine hand-fan to the crowd as they cheered for her as well.

Silence came in like a wave as the royal guard emerged from down the street, sporting their pristine navy uniforms. Furred hats rested on their heads, rifles held in marching order as they fanned out to clear the square for their prime guest, the queen. Her carriage was draped in flowing sections of gilded navy wood, brandished with scenery of flying pegasai. Twin wolves of the purest white brought it to the dead center of the square. They didn't flinch or stray, well trained and as stoic as a minotaur.

The carriage cracked open, the crowd gasped as the queen strolled out with a wave. Her dress mirrored Lyndis' own but had a few more layers of gold. Her advisors came out on either side, one nodding and whispering a spell before placing his glowing fingers to the queen's throat. Her voice came like that of a dragon, loud and powerful.

“My people!" She waved to them all, “Lords and ladies of the court, the head merchants of Tregaron. I come to you with an announcement. One that will affect the future of our kingdom!"

Muttering went through the crowd, pondering what the queen had in store. Cordenth grinned, raising his head over all of them. Here it was, the moment that he'd waited for. The final pin in their quest. Oh he was practically giddy with anticipation. It was all he could do to stop his paws from wiggling.

“I bring to you what you've no doubt suspected." Elizabeth's head gently fell before she brushed back her hair. The crowd gasped but she held them with a wave of the hand. “He was slain by our enemy to the north by an invention most foul. It has the power to wipe our cities off the map in a single stroke. Wallowdale Pass has already been destroyed."

Gasps spread through the crowd. Some even blurted out that it could not be so.

“I fear that it is." Elizabeth sighed, “Every man, woman and child was snuffed out in but the snap of a finger. My husband thought he could stop them. Though without ample knowledge he rode off on a heroic journey to rid out land of such evil. It was there he met his end, his steed at his side and kingdom he loved in his heart." As the crowd's murmuring died down the queen composed herself. “Thanks to my weakness the enemy manipulated my grief. Used this fear to their advantage and divided our borders over peace. Now the undead roam our lands to the north in numbers we've not seen in at least a hundred years! Towns are aflame, people suffer, the innocent die."

She turned to Lyndis, raising a hand. “My daughter came to me, begging for aid. Struport, our sister has sent her as a beacon. Undeath marches for her this very instant, vowing to slaughter them all. I swear to you their call will not go unanswered." She nodded, earning a smirk from the rogue. “There will be a line drawn around Struport, one bright and powerful that declares in one thundering voice. Here and no further!" She turned to Cordenth, eyes sparkling in the morning light. “I will do what's best for this kingdom."

Cordenth turned to Lyndis, pulling her close. This was it. “We did it."

“I will be stepping down as your queen, so that my daughter Lynalla can take the throne! She is the one to carry the torch of my husband's noble work. Her and the noble dragon Radiant Star will defeat these undead, find the Lunarian's secret weapon, and restore our kingdom to it's rightful glory!"

Cordenth's heart skipped a beat. Eyes around the courtyard fell upon them like a breaking dam, bringing the weight of thousands. Sound all but faded away as a thick tension filled the air. The walls seemed to press in, restricting breath as he held Lyndis' trembling form in his paw. She was wide eyed, color all but drained from her face. He couldn't help but pin his frills, this wasn't supposed to happen.

*

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