FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Chapter 11

From the nest of terrors they flew with great haste, losing themselves among the thousands of cloud that gathered over their heads. There the dragon twirled, catching the night's currents, relishing in the sense of radiance building within his chest. Instead of tired he instead felt energized, like a new flame of life had been lit anew. With every beat of his wings he wanted to sing, unleash his delight upon the heavens themselves. It was only a weakened reminder from the others that punctured his good cheer, reminding him that they could be being followed.

“Hope she got a good look of what we could do, putting to an end whatever scheme she had within her skull." He snorted, “Allowing a dragon to be mutilated in such a manner? Doing nothing to aid his suffering?" The growl he let loose would have terrified any who heard it, make them pray for a swift end by his paws. Why was he as surprised as he was? He'd seen her lack of action when it came to Infinity, she'd been helped captive in a wizard's tower, tortured for numerous years before she decided to act, when she needed her.

Bursting upwards through the clouds like a shark, he beheld the thousands of stars above. Under them he felt so small, insignificant, just a lone dragon shouting at the world to change. He knew when it came his time to guide this world he'd be different. That what they made would last for many centuries in the least, if mother stood in their way, he and Lyndis would rise to oppose her. After all, if she allowed such things to happen, when she had the means to stop them, she was no better than those siigonis that were hacking off parts of Revaramek themselves.

With a spell from Broxl, his scales shifted colors, becoming one with the sea of twilight around them. None would spy them without the aid of magic, which was perfect for their travel. He listed on in silence, searching occasionally through the cloud cover, bearing witness to the darkened countryside below. Occasionally he'd catch a murmur from his passengers, or a weakened groan from Lyndis, he'd peer back during these times, heart stretched at its wit's end.

“She's alright, just needs some medicine and rest." Broxl replied, catching the dragon's concerned stare.

“Hmmpf. And see that she does, or you will be missing a tail when I'm through with you." He snapped with a heavy snort, hiding the rumble he wished to convey for such concern for his beloved. There was an image to maintain after all, the closeness he shared with Lyndis was only reserved for her, others would have a certain emotional distance maintained. Hours of searching found them swooping around a rise within the marsh, a place of relative dryness to the swaths of moisture around them. Cordenth landed with a bumpy trot, turning to stare at the sky as the others thanked and clambered off his sides.

Within such a tapestry he could almost feel his mother watching him. But why would she even care? Would she be angry? He hoped she would be, this was all for her doing anyway, he'd set right this world she'd messed with, setting the stage for such injustices to dragon kind in this world. His tail flicked, a breeze washed over his wings, almost answering him with a lonely whine. It whispered to him, drew his snout to the north, whispering him to follow and forget the others by his side.

He knew what it was, the pheonix from his vision, like a siren's call trying to get him to follow. He rose a paw, intrigued at the prospect, but only stilled when Lyndis' weakened groan pulled him from his haze. After the deed was done he promised himself, only then would he follow this trail to it's end. Tired, golden eyes fell upon the weakened form of his beloved, guiding him to her side with a weakened whine. His snout fell upon her cold palm, nuzzling in silence as cold slithered down and grabbed tight at his soul. If anything happened to her he'd never forgive himself, it was the one job that he was supposed to have. He curled around her like a city wall, acting as her bed in which to lay upon.

“You just going to sit there while we make camp?" Asked Vishta, unfurling her bedroll.

“Have a problem with that?" He growled, pulling Lyndis tighter against him.

“We could use the-“

Broxl laid a hand upon her shoulder, without words conveying her to let it be. “I need help looking for plants anyway, it will ease the poison that now courses through the princess' veins."

“How about I go about making a-“

Cordenth swished a paw, conjuring a fire mere feet from his paws. As the others looked to him he replied with apathy, gently stroking Lyndis' hair. “Go find your cures and return, I shall make sure she is no longer harmed."

It only took the others a few minutes to find the herbs that they required, they were plentiful within this territory. Broxl was quick to empty his waterskin into a pot, getting prepared to make for Lyndis a stew to help relieve her shaking body of what ailed her. It smelled like rotted meat and curled the dragon's tail, but if the siigonis said it helped, then it was good enough for him. He rested his snout against the soft earth as Vishta laid down beside him, resting her back upon his tail.

“Um…Excuse me?" He rose his head, tilting it when she rummaged through her pack and procured the book in which all this fuss had been about. “When have I become your seat?"

“When you are the most comfortable thing around." She gestured to the thick bushes around them, the thorn covered branches. “We aren't left with many options."

He gently shoved her off, “I don't recall giving you permission to touch me."

“You can't be serious, we flew upon your back here!"

“Indeed, and that is only out of necessity." He growled, making the kobold yelp and find a moisture covered log to lean upon.

“When did you get so testy?" She cracked open the book with a furrowed brow, the fire flame's enchanting her scales with an orange hue.

He shrugged with his wings, casting his sight away from the irritated kobold and back towards the fair, unconscious form of Lyndis. Even shivering as she was, her beauty put everything around to shame. “When it became clear to me that my presence is the only thing that keeps this expedition going. That without me, failure would be certain. From now on, I am calling more of the shots, lest you get left behind." His gaze narrowed, allowing no deviations. “Double if humor is made at my expense."

“Now you can't take a joke?" She rose a brow, getting a look that could kill in response. “Right, got it. No more slights against the green dragon. Broxl can you believe this? I hadn't thought his scales were so thin."

The hunter was busy stirring in the herbs to his bubbling pot, shrugging when she asked again. “If the dragon wishes not for us to make light of him, or poke fun, we should respect his decisions. After all, we owe him greatly for his sacrifices."

“Sacrifices?" She snorted in disbelief, only to meet his fiery, golden gaze. “Right, the numerous sacrifices you made for us. I'd forgotten."

“I'm aware." He sighed, placing a paw to his chest, “Your kind seldom appreciates what dragons must go through in this world. The indignities that laid upon our scales, treated it seems like some fancy horse in which the heroes must ride to their next destination. I'll tell you this little thief, I am no fancy horse, this isn't one of those stories, I am a main character with agency."

“To make a better kingdom, unite scales, warmbloods and dragons." Broxl practically smiled with a thumping tail, tilting Vishta's head.

“Broxl you alright? You seem…Different…Why so chummy with the dragon all of a sudden?"

Cordenth's eyes widened as the question lingered on the hunter's face. Would he tell? To his relief the enchantment held, Broxl dismissed Vishta with a wave and a snort.

“He and I are two of a kin. It took that terrible hall to realize it." Broxl chortled, nodding welcomingly to Cordenth, “He be welcome any time in my home."

“lay praises on my scales like that and I will endeavor to do so." The dragon replied with a trill, only making Vishta look to both as if they'd gone mad. “How much longer for that stew to be done? Lyndis here is shivering like a newly hatched wrymling."

“Patience dragon, this takes time. This fire burns not as hot as the real thing."

“But needed." He peered into the sky, searching for any sight of wing, scale or teeth, consequences for their activities but finding none. It seemed fate had spared them this night, the price only being the restful sleep of one half-elf. Satisfied he shifted around Lyndis, carefully maneuvering her with the upmost care. She after all was smaller, fragile in comparison to his own mighty strength. When he finally got settled with his wing around her, Vishta had already been thumbing through the darkened book she'd found, while Broxl hummed a song of his people over the fire.

“I'm sorry to hear about that dragon you know." Vishta said softly, pulling Cordenth's ear. “No one deserves stuff like that to happen to them. You think that sort of stuff only happens in Corvania or dungeons within Rothdell, but the world likes to surprise you each time."

“And yet it merely gets added to the growing pile of terrible deeds to dragon kind." His claws trembled with fury at the thought. Pondering if he could truly put it to an end. Could he tame the darkness that lurked within mortal kind? That irrational fear, or jealousy that drove them to such heinous acts? Was it right for him to even seek friendship with some like that? Could he even trust them? Look what happened to Revaramek when he came to trust those siigonis, they butchered him like an animal! Cordenth's harsh snort lingered upon the air as he lashed his tail, vowing he could tame the chaotic nature of the mortal spirit. He had the drive, the time, and the heart to do so. It mattered not how many he had to extinguish to achieve it, he'd see the unification of their peoples in his time.

Before his eyes came the wonderous image of his future empire, Lyndis right by his side, a beautiful dress of various blues, greens and golds. Together they gazed out to a wonderous, lush countryside, brimming with life. In the bright skies, dragons soared with one another, riders upon their backs, so many colors in their number it looked as though autumn leaves whisked away by the wind. The green king smiled, warmth every growing beneath his scales. His head dipped, sharing a passionate kiss with the woman he'd chosen to spend the rest of her life with. Even though wrinkles were among her features, her beauty was still not lost upon him.

“Did you know these bindings are made from human flesh?" Chuckled Vishta, pulling the dragon from his day-dream. “I mean, if they were going for a giant sign that they were evil, mission achieved."

He rolled his eyes at the interruption, of course it would be put to an end. “Humans use cow on their books, you don't see the minotaur insisting evil lurks within them."

“You don't see instructions on how to properly torture the human cattle for the book either." Her snout wrinkled, thumbing a page. “Even speaks of certain oils to better prepare the pages, make it immune to fire it says."

“It is?"

“Watch!" She casually tossed the book into the fire, nearly knocking over Lyndis' bubbling stew.

Broxl retracted it at the last moment with an irritated hiss, “Watch your stuff little gnat, you almost ruined dragon's stew."

“But watch." She crossed her arms with a confident smirk, eyes locked upon the book's pages. Despite the raging, magical fire that consumed it, not an inch was consumed by it's flames. There it sat, unaware, that it's presence was an oddity. With a stick she retrieved it, “Go ahead touch, it's quite cool."

So he did so, curiosity hanging over him like a cloud. Tiny it was to his paw, but he could sense the acts of horror that went into it's construction. He involuntary shuttered, “That tells of dark magic, pray tell captivates your attentions, future plans?"

“Wouldn't you like to know." She mused, cracking open the book, “Do you often poke your snout into kobold's business?"

“When I see one, I'll let you know. All I've met are bards, servants and thieves." He gave her a tooth filled grin.

“Not remotely what I meant big guy, but you keep trying."

“Excuse me for making the note of your interest in dark magic, it's not an insane assumption to make! Who knows what terrible powers you could be messing with…"

“Says the one who used such a power on the nest-“

“Dark?" His head rose above her with a growl, nostrils flaring. “That power is of the very opposite. It is the light in which is glorious to behold! You bore witness to it's strength, its potential, it saved our very lives! Could dark magic do that?"

“Well, it could, magic doesn't seem too concerned with what its-“

“Oh, in this instance it knows." He thrust down a paw, “It's aided us in our most dire hour, time and again ferrying us to safety. At first I worried about what this power would bring, if it was a devil in disguise, but now there can be no question."

“That magic bent to your will? That's hardly proof that it isn't-“ She closed her snout tight as the dragon's growl punctuated the air. “Alright, so it is. But if I recall, you and sleeping beauty over there had an agreement. What will she think knowing you used it against her say so?"

He paused, though he'd tried to tell himself she'd accept it, the thought of her knowing brought a sliver of doubt. Sure she was a half-elf, that her opinion by default was lesser, but he still cherished more than any of the others, that's how great he was. The dragon's tail gently flicked as he thought it over, eventually shaking his head, “No, she must not know. It would only upset her when I needn't."

“And you'll lie to her?" Whistled Vishta, turning the page, “I've been down that road before friend, it never turns out like you'd hope. They always find out, or you slip up. End result is, you wind up on your tail, working for K.I.N out of a horse and buggy."

He scratched his chest. Sure it wasn't the most ideal solution to it, but it would beat back the fight that was bound to transpire. “My tongue will not slip on such matters, for my snout is the tightest of places to hide secrets large and small."

“Sure, guilt won't loosen that lock?

“Certain. For she wouldn't understand, humans wouldn't understand the need for such actions. Same goes for the slaughter of the siigonis harming the benevolent overlord below. She shows distain for the spilling of blood, I fear it's reveal will create a divide between us that I might not be able to pull together."

“And will you be using your powers to ensure we don't speak?" Asked Vishta, her voice suddenly hardened. “I know I can keep a secret, question if Broxl can."

The hunter merely shrugged, “I've kept a few in my time, this will be no different. Though Lyndis has the resolve of a leader, her thoughts will ever be muddled by her nature. I find humans recoil from blood, have no love for death. They wouldn't understand."

“I'd have stories that contradict that notion." Cordenth growled, “I've seen them sacrifice their own for greater things."

“As have I." Vishta added softly, “Time and time again."

“Regardless." Broxl pounded his chest proudly, giving Cordenth a knowing nod. “It will be done. Our escape will be a grand thing, that she was knocked unconscious for."

“Yes." Cordenth rumbled, raising his head high, dreaming of the glorious tale that he might spin. In no short order he laid out his terms, methodically planning every one of his heroic deeds within the span of their escape.

“You think she will buy that douse of heroics?" Vishta scoffed as he described swatting bugs by the dozen out of the air with his tail. “I've heard fairy tales that were more realistic."

“But none as great as this." He rolled a paw, “Now what did I do again?"

“Save us with your mighty breath and claws." She sighed, “But why must you shield yourself to her? I bet she'll understand what you had to do, blood and all. I think you two are being a bit old fashioned in your regards to humans. I mean, not like any of us have any clean slates to speak of. I've like, poisoned a shit ton of people."

“I skewered a man's eye out once for cutting down a sacred tree." Shrugged Broxl, “He made the strangest sound."

“Was it, by the gods you've cut out my eye?"

“Close."

“Which, funny story, Lyndis down there in the caverns-“

Cordenth snorted, shifting his paws as he gave his companions the most judgmental look he could muster. “I have been nothing but noble since I've met her. Whenever death needs to be dished out, it needed to be done. But I saw her looks within the forest of despair when I dripped with rivers of blood. It troubled her then, I see no reason to think it wouldn't tarnish her view of me now."

“So, you don't want her to know that you gassed about thirty siigonis priests down in that temple?" Broxl scratched his head, “Just so we got it right."

“Precisely, no matter how deserving those ungrateful vermin deserved a dragon's noxious cloud, or their teeth ripping out their throats. There is not enough of that going around this world for my liking. Vile people like that need a good consequence. But Lyndis need not be exposed to it, so if you respect me, I wish for her to remain in the dark over such deeds."

“Whatever Radiant star, it's your funeral. But don't go trotting to me when she finds out, hating that you lied to her." Replied Vishta, diverting her attentions back to her book. “We tried to warn you."

What did she know anyway? How could she know the inner workings of his beloved? He dismissed her with a wing, returning to caring for the woman he loved. With a flick of his tail his snout was lowered to her, gazing softly to her features. There she was, for but a moment, serene and as peaceful as a spring morning. Her beauty, enshrined by the fire's glow, still made the dragon swoon. With a purr he gently rose a paw, caressing her short hair, letting each strand catch his palms for but a flicker of a moment. He wondered what dreams dwelled within her, would they be peaceful or cursed by the venom running through her now? He grumbled at his uselessness, unable to free her from whatever ills that may haunt her. What sort of mate would he be that he couldn't protect her from such things?

But did he have the right to protect her from his deeds? He snorted at the thought, of course he did! He was a dragon after all, knowing better was practically written into his blood! She would thank him with a smile for his caring nature, the willingness to not see a moment of pain upon her features. But then he paused, his heart skipping a beat as the kobold's threat passed before his eyes. He pictured her recoiling, eyes wide, pain as clear as a summers day within her gaze. It broke his heart. Could he bear having that happen? The possibility that she might not brighten his day with her presence? That was the true nightmare.

Was this attachment to her for his good health? It sent a swarm of bees beneath his skull, rattling around between his horns. Was it right that she would ever be his weakness? A way for those that sought him harm to strike at him? With a beath his snout was on her cheek, taking comfort in her warmth. Of course it was, how could it not be? Her touch made him want to sing, trumpet out to the sky above. But in that thought brought about a chuckle, that a small creature such as her that may hold sway of his divine soul. She must have been a chosen one among her people, the power that could rival that of the gods themselves. He knew he could never leave her, his heart burned too much. Around her he curled protectively, closing his eyes and drifting to the future. One where the times of war were but a distant memory, and dragons lived alongside mortal kind in peace.

*

The trip ahead seemed to be blessed by the gods themselves. Not a misfortune fell upon their wings, nor the weather darken to whittle away at their spirits. Instead Cordenth twirled through the air, warbling his joy, frills ruffling in the currents. The land beneath his paws was alive with movement, of the animals that called it home, in addition to the siigonis villages they passed. Their tiny, brown blots against the green tapestry becoming sites the dragon wished to visit when they had the time. Especially if they treasured dragons the same way that Tlax had done! In these times he'd linger upon the tiny specks that were siigonis, trying to picture their stunned expressions, rumbling to himself the good feelings he no doubt instilled upon them.

He dove deeper the closer he got to such places, just to show off to these humble people, much to the ire of his current companions, but who were they to complain? He was their only ride to the capital! To make it up to Lyndis he dipped his wings in pools of the marsh, letting the sparkling spray that it brought bring a smile to her face. He was just glad she'd recovered, and despite their victory she never stopped. Time and again he caught her preparing with Broxl and Vishta over what to say to the clan elders, how to win their support.

But as he drifted into his mind during such times, he couldn't help but hear a siren's call upon the wind. Before he scanned his snout, he'd already deduced what it was. Out in the countryside lurked the swamp of shadows, practically demanding his audience. If he squinted on the horizon, he'd sometimes see the flickering form of a pheonix, beckoning him to continue. It he held a pain lanced at his temples, causing him to wince, and prompt Lyndis to ask how he was doing.

“I'm fine, course I am!" He finally snapped at her during the second day of travel, with such fierceness that she recoiled. Golden eyes widened at the realization, quickly adopting a submissive posture to belay her sudden fear. “Sorry, Its just…It hurts, I didn't mean to chomp down your throat."

“Still doesn't make it ok." Her arms crossed, eyes of steel. “I'm just bleedin worried about you, you're acting like Crimson did back when we'd sighted the forest of despair."

He rolled his eyes, knowing mother had lured in the red dragon with such a trick. “I know what your insulating, but that was different."

“Well this bit of different looks like it hurts. I've seen the looks you're trying to hide, the wincing and shaking of your head. Cordenth, you needn't lie to me or appear to be strong." Her voice grew soft as she approached, laying a hand upon his cheek. “I'm a big girl, you're not a child. I can help you, you know."

“Of course you'd know how to pull my strings. It does indeed cause pain. Not much mind you, but enough to be rather annoying. Like one of Veledar's narcissistic fueled rants."

“See, now you're saying something is causing that levels of devastation in your head?" The rogue scowled at the horizon, cracking her knuckles. “When I get my claws on it, bet your arse we're going to have lots to talk about."

“So you want to go?" He perked up, tail swishing, “What if it's a trap?"

“Half the stuff we do is a trap, or haven't you noticed? Might be better to spring one on our terms for once. But sure, something out there has your attention, might be worth a look or two." She held him close, kissing at his cheek with a wink. “Who knows, maybe we get into a tad of aggressive negotiations!"

He rumbled at the idea, holding her close. This is why he loved her.

It took three days of travel to finally catch sight of Qui'ttax. The massive, weathered walls rose from the forest, plated with solid gold, creating a stark divide from the wilderness and civilization. Sunlight gave it an unearthly glow, like it was blessed from the gods themselves. The city itself dug itself into the landscape, making it bend to it's will. A network of stone buildings slithered between the walls, dominated by colorful vines with a multitude of flowers. Waterways divided streets like the roots of a tree, connecting into a singular point to form a great waterfall at it's end.

Cordenth floated above this wonderous place, catching sight of the flocks of birds chasing each other through the pillars of stone that rose out from the city, longing to catch the clouds themselves. He knew his companions said something about it's majesty, for how could they not? His eyes were drawn to the numerous pyramids of solid blocks, each one painted a different color for the various clans that called this place home. He spied siigonis already pointing upwards to his swooping presence, but calls of alarm were not to be had. When Broxl guided him to a sparser section of the city, he was practically warbling to himself.

Dragons landing the siigonis hunter told him, but Cordenth might have been able to guess the name. It had a gigantic platform of stone, adorned with artwork of green dragon kind, their wings unfurled and posed in a most regal manner. The prominent beast on display was of Revaramek himself, the brass streaks within his membranes gave it away. Around this place Cordenth did swoop, counting the numerous siigonis that were striding most casually to where he was supposed to land.

“You know, this seems more made for larger dragons." Lyndis said softly, voicing Cordenth's thoughts.

“Indeed, it was, for it was the great dragon Revaramek that helped guide our people to this civilized state. Before we were scattered tribes resorted to infighting, seeking dominance over scraps of food. He pointed at the warriors gathering with bows and spears in hand, “Fear not their weapons, they only don't know why Radiant Star arrives. It is merely a precaution. Green dragons are seen with much luck here, they are good omens."

He couldn't get down their fast enough. His warble seemed to rebuttal his companions sudden yelps as he dipped, landing with a great flare of his wings to the siigonis people before him. There was a gasp that warmed his heart, not a hint of fear about them. Only the pure radiance of awe that was due to him. As his companions recovered their bearings he introduced himself in a brassy voice, bowing his head out of respect. To his wonder they returned it, accompanied by the thumping of chests and spears. He was going to like it here.

The warriors gathered before him held loose their spears and bows, a multitude of tattoos both white and red about their green scaled faces. It had appeared as though they'd spread out initially at his presence, but as they murmured among themselves, any semblance of order was lost among them. By the time Lyndis and Broxl were clambering down with their prisoner, the gathered siigonis were practically lining up to beg to touch his scales.

“What brings you great dragon to our bright city?" The lead guard asked, one with a crown of red and orange feathers.

“We come to have a meeting with your council of elders, we bring tales of the kingdoms beyond." He lowered himself so that Lyndis might have an easier time. “We are in great haste to do so."

The guard shifted under such a demand, “I apologize, for one does not simply walk in upon the gathering of elders. They are busy, help run our clans, they can't just be called upon like some common mule."

“They will be when you tell them I've brought the queen of Drenedar to have words with them." He grinned, making a dramatic gesture with his wings that brought swathes of crimson to Lyndis' cheeks. “Which I might add was quite arduous, so we won't be being turned away."

But despite his flattering display, the gathered crowd of siigonis didn't seem swayed by his assertion of fact. The lead siigonis gave her a most unflattering snort, “Why should I believe the word of this elf? Many could make this claim."

“How many elves come swanning in here eh?" Lyndis replied.

“You're calling her a liar?" Growled Cordenth, stepping forcefully towards this guard, letting his tail lash do all the threatening he needed to. “We didn't fly for miles to wind up here for you to dismiss her just like that. She and I are due your respect, or have you any sense about you?"

Under the dragon's powerful glare, the power in which the guard drew strength did falter and die. He averted his gaze in a huff, “Very well dragon. We come not here to fight, but I must say, you travel in such strange company if true. Royals of her nature are known to travel in much more grand displays."

“It's that bit of uniqueness I've always cherished." Lyndis chuckled, resting upon Cordenth's shoulder. “Keeps things fresh, who needs all those flashy bits anyway?"

“But I do like the flashy bits." Protested Cordenth.

“Well, he likes the flashy bits, I'm a great expresser of the no."

The guard sighed, gesturing to his fellow siigonis to stand down, there would be no quarrel this day. “We'll try to keep this in mind." With a flick of his tail he bellowed out to one of his fellows, instructing a slim, white tattooed siigonis to scamper ahead and warn the elders of the dragon's arrival.

“Warn?" Cordenth grumbled as he watched the young siigonis depart, “Should we be concerned?"

“Not at all." The guard bowed, “But dragons have great appetites, and their agendas unknown. We've also played guest to ones not quite aware how long their tails are."

“Ah…Quite." Cordenth chuckled, reminded of Veledar's clumsiness. “Then continue, I assume you wish us to walk the streets of your…fair city?"

“To give them time to prepare, that is all." Bowed the siigonis, “Besides, it will allow you to see the great bounty in which we enjoy."

What a bounty it was, as it was practically thrust into the dragon's snout wherever they walked. News of his arrival had spread quickly through the city, pulling every siigonis it seemed into the stone streets. There they waited with bated breath, painted scales, all for the chance for a glimpse of the green dragon in their midst. They brought wooden toys for him to bless, fruit in which he might enjoy, some butchers even paraded out fine cuts of meat, of what he wasn't certain, and Lyndis stopped him from finding out. The air was abuzz with good cheer, calls echoing out in a constant cacophony. Cordenth couldn't help but wave with his wings, smile, wink and rumble at how the scaled citizens swooned at his efforts. He walked in a strut, tail swaying, enjoying every second of this detour.

Around the water ways they guided him, up and down every step of engraved stone. There he found tales from long since passed, he would have loved to stay and sift through them, but now wasn't the time. Waterfalls of green vines dangled over every roof it seemed, creating a mismatching tapestry before him. It wasn't long until he spied fantastical statues of siigonis kind, each frozen, committing their deeds to the ages. Some were prophets of the gods, others warriors and poets, Cordenth found himself paused before a great leader, one with a headdress covered in feathers. Would he be remembered one day as such? Course he would, he couldn't be everywhere at once!

“I don't get why you couldn't just change your form." Grumbled Lyndis as Cordenth waved and greeted another wave of his adoring fanatics. “It might draw less attention."

“Less attention?" Vishta snorted, “I thought you knew the dragon."

“And why would you wish to hide him?" Broxl mused, nudging at her side. “The people love his presence; it only means good fortunes for our request."

Cordenth grinned, gently pressing the queen to his side. “What's the matter? Jealous that I'm getting all the praise? I think it's a bit fair, you get your praise at home, I get mine here!"

“I don't like the praise there."

“And whose that's fault, eh? Broxl, why didn't you mention your people found dragons so welcoming? I'd have been in a greater rush to get here!"

“I did not want us to think this would be a breeze." He shrugged to Lyndis, “Nor reveal how impossible it might be without the dragon's presence."

“Wait, hold on just a bleedin moment." She slid to his front; finger jabbed in his chest. “You mean to tell me, without Radiant Star, we wouldn't be going? What would have happened if he didn't?"

“Besides you not coming because you seem attached at the hip?"

“Yes, that!" Her cheeks flushed red, “Cause it's starting to focking sound as though they'd have killed me."

“Well-“

She gasped in horror, “Radiant Star are you hearing this? They'd have killed me!"

“But they haven't Lyndis." He smiled, “Lets count our blessings, shall we? Instead of listing of things that haven't happened."

“Vishta?" She snapped to the suspiciously silent kobold, “YOU."

“You what?" She replied, not looking the queen in the eye.

“You said everything was safe!"

“See, that's what we in the kobold information agency, call a lie."

“You lied to me!"

“Only to get you here!" She scampered behind one of Cordenth's limbs, “And it all worked out anyway, why so cross?"

Cordenth lifted the limb, denying her the protection as Lyndis chased her around himself. He could only chuckle at their antics, “Now, Now Lyndis, everything went and worked out."

“But she wasn't certain!" Said Lyndis.

He clicked his tongue, igniting a flame in her eyes.

“You're siding with her?"

“Hey, look over there, what's that?" Vishta deflected, pointing out to a group of siigonis warriors keeping their distance, practically hugging the shadows. “Who are they?"

The dragon squinted, catching sight of their dark green scales, tattoos of blackened ink in the shape of a multitude of skulls. Within their leather armors were stitched the ritualistic bones of their slain foes, on their waists were nestled a dozen or so weapons. These siigonis watched them with hardened eyes, slinking from shadow to shadow as one. He shared the kobold's curiosity, albeit he added a cocked head for effect.

“Shadow clan." Broxl answered calmly, “Hunters, assassins, those that help make sure the order and peace here is maintained."

“Doesn't that sound like a secret guard force?" Lyndis crossed her arms, “That can't be good."

“No ill will is meant by their presence, one does not typically know they are even there. If they are appearing before us now, it must just to show they are watching us. That what we do, they will respond."

“So, they are trying to threaten us." Growled Cordenth, flaring his wings wide, setting off a chorus of cheers from the crowd of siigonis' younger inhabitants. “Then two can play at this game!" With a deep breath he stomped down his paws, letting loose a most threatening roar. The crowd cheered, not understanding its purpose, but hopefully the now stilled siigonis assassins did so. As a round of applause spread through the crowd, he grinned, pride in his chest, ignoring how Lyndis shook her head with a heavy sigh.

“I can't believe your idea of calming the situation down was threatening them."

“It's only fair." He snorted, “Tit for tat, what were they expecting?"

“Clearly not that."

By the time they'd gotten to the council's pyramid, the crowds had all but parted. With every street it had seemed to ebb, and now there was but a handful of siigonis still looking to Cordenth as he was a god made manifest before them. The temple itself was clad in layers of thick gold, bones skewered into the stone as if thrust by some gigantic beast. At the topmost layer sat a crimson gem the size of a man, glinting in the sunlight as if it were aflame.

Slinking from the temple's long stairway was a lizard that only seemed to be scale and bone. Her scales were a vibrant green, adorned in symbols of the five clans. A robe of fine silk flowed from her shoulders, stitched into it's surface golden shapes of the sun. She bowed when she neared Cordenth, everyone else might as well have been invisible.

“Greetings great dragon, I welcome you to our city." She gestured to the guards that had led them here, whisking them away with a wave of her claw, “I will be dealing with you now. The elders prepare for your arrival, I must confess, they are quite excited for your visit."

He rumbled, placing a paw to his well-deserved chest. “I too wait to meet them with bated breath. It's wonderous to see a whole city that treats dragons with the dignity and respect that is owed them." Gesturing to the steps with a wing, he couldn't help but chuckle. “We've walked long enough to get here, you expect us to climb that?"

She nodded nervously, “It will give them time to prepare."

“And if I just left my companions here? Just flew up on my own? I'd rather not walk the entire way." He raised a paw with a soft whine, “The hard stone does terrible things to the paws."

“And for that I'm sorry great dragon." She approached, asking to touch his wounded paw. With his permission she massaged the pad with her hand in a most tender fashion. “And we will make sure your paws are massaged, your scales rubbed down. We will provide food and comforts while you stay with us. I promise, you won't suffer another second within these cities walls."

He warbled at the gesture, “See? This is how a dragon should be treated! What was your name? And will it be you doing the massaging?"

“Tuoxl." The woman chuckled seductively, “And if you so wish it, I will."

Lyndis put an end to this flirting, “Alright missy, we're not here to play pussy paw with ya. We're here to see the elders and work out a treaty for them and my people. So if you don't mind doing your job, that would be great."

Tuoxl as she was called, paused at such a scathing tongue from the dragon's half-elven companion. “Dragon, you might want to tell your concubine to mind her tongue, the elders won't be as forgiving within these halls. If you wish it, I could have her taken care of while you tend to your business."

“Concubine?" Lyndis' cheeks flushed red as Cordenth chuckled, “Listen here you sorry excuse for a secretary. Though I might have had the job thrust upon me, I am the queen of Drenedar! If anyone is a concubine around here, its him!"

All eyes went to Cordenth, who huffed and pressed a paw to his chest. “If concubines get pampered like kings and waited on every moment, then I am the largest concubine that has ever concubined."

“See? He even admits it." Smirked Lyndis, patting Cordenth's side. “Glad we got that settled."

Shaking her head, the siigonis woman sighed, “So let me get this straight, you're the queen? But you look so…plain! Whatever was I supposed to think?"

“To not judge a book by its cover?"

“You're one to talk." Snorted Tuoxl, “Turning down an offer of friendship years ago."

“Friendship? You were to marry me off to this one!" When she gestured to Broxl, the hunter could only give a knowing nod.

“I am not offended Tuoxl, the elders should not as well." He replied bluntly.

“I'm glad you think so, but they don't share that opinion." The guide snapped, “It will take lots of talking to win them back over from that insult."

“And lucky for us, you brought the best of good omens." Cordenth said, chest swelling with pride. “Besides, with one look to me and Broxl, they'll see why you turned them down. You were waiting for a dragon!"

“I'm not telling them that." She chortled, “Nor are you."

“But they'd like it." He rumbled playfully, lowering his snout to lock eyes with her. “Come now, part of you must think it would be fun."

She rolled her eyes, halfheartedly trying to push his snout, “Alright shush that snout of yours. Sure it worked out, but we can't be so brazen as to say that. We got to be respectful and polite."

“And tell them to look upon my scales." He pulled up with a rumble, flaring his wings wide. He enjoyed the excited clapping from their siigonis attendant, not so much how Lyndis sighed and pushed her way passed him.

Up the regal steps they did climb, the stone here lacking the weathered look from down below. Not a vine or spot of mold was to be found, mildew seemed to have been burned away. There was only polished stone, woven tapestries of every color, dazzling to behold. Areas that led within the pyramid told of great arts of work, more intricate statues within, and carvings more salacious. If the welcome in the city below had been wonderous, then this was magnificence in it's purest form. There was a series of siigonis throat singing, accompanied by a trio paving the way for their passing with the throwing of pink pedals before his paws. Everywhere he looked, the temple was aglow with his arrival, he was a god to these people!

But Lyndis was one to ruin the experience with her talks of job, duty and sticking to the plan. When he only scoffed at her with flared nostrils, she accused him that his scales of green were slowly turning so red that Veledar would be jealous.

She thought of him like that? He dismissed her notion with a waggle of his wing. “I think not Lyndis, do you know how much that color would clash with my scales? Do I look like to be a dragon of the festive spirit?"

“Yea, cause that's why I show concern." Grumbled the queen, eyes lingering on the gold of his chest. “Sure you're not letting it go to your head?"

“He's letting it go to his head." Replied Vishta, her face just as sullen as the rogue, a dark contrast to the brilliance pulsing around them. “Lighter note, possibly the elders will be just as enthralled as these lot."

“I certainly hope so!" Replied Cordenth, fighting the urge to gallop up the rest of the way to these elder's chambers. After all, if they wished to lay down at his paws the entire way, he'd take his time to relish their efforts! Otherwise, it would be rude!"

Near the top their path eventually deviated, heading deeper towards the pyramid's center. Here the path opened to a circular hall. Sunlight filtered down from above, redirected by mirrors to enshrine this room in a golden glow. It added a radiance of divinity to the tapestries that lined the walls, each overhanging the five thrones that dwelled within this place. They were carved from limestone, engraved with draconic sigils and were enshrined in the bones of great beasts of old.

From a nearby entryway came a burly, muscular siigonis of exceptional size, putting Broxl to shame. He was tattooed with reds and oranges, designs of flames upon his forearms. There was an attendant rushing after him with bandages within their claws, trying to get this impatient lizard to stop, long enough to bandage the bloody wound upon his shoulder. He settled into his seat with a hardened gaze.

“This is the whelp that interrupted my daily sparring? This one is hardly an adult!" The fire clan leader sneered, “A mere child walking before us. Where is the magnificence that was promised us? The creature of great omen and fortune?"

A slender siigonis within the throne of the water clan clicked her tongue at him. She was adorned in blue robes, seashells strung out around her neck, decorated with gems. “So quick to dismiss him are we Chi'tin? You're not supposed to have the fiery temper of your namesake you know."

“But ever so predictable." Chuckled another female, this one leaning back in her throne, standing prominently before an emerald banner adorned with trees. She was the leader of the forest clan; her garb was simple and practical. “Don't know why you try and talk sense to him Deyos, you're not going to get anywhere."

“You wish to come over here and say that Akron you old crone?" The siigonis called Chi'tin hissed, slamming his fist down upon his seat's rest, startling his attendant to almost flee. “I'm merely commenting on how we were promised one thing but got another, it was a total bait and switch."

“They never commented on the dragon's age." Replied the female called Deyos calmly, “Are they to blame for your raised expectations? This dragon can't help that he fails to meet your ideal image of himself, you should be aware that size does not necessarily mean great things."

“Course I know that!" His head frill flared up, as fire raged within his yellow eyes. “You need not talk to me as though I am a hatchling!"

“Don't I?" She rolled her claw, “If you wish to go back to swinging your sticks around, you're free to do so. We will entertain this dragon, with or without your presence."

“Which, might I have is awfully strange." Hissed a lizard with white scales, blue designs of the sun decorating his scales. He thrust an accusing finger towards them, showing off the gold encrusted jewelry that adorned his fingers. “Considering this dragon brings one who holds no respect for our ways, the princess Lynalla of Drenedar!"

In a chorus of displeased hisses, the council elders squabbled back and forth to one another, not even stopping to address them as Cordenth and the others tried and failed to get their attentions. The only one who wasn't sharing their displeasure was a siigonis woman on the far end, her scales the same as the shadow clan that had been trailing them. Weathered and scared was the snout she held in one claw, gently stroking as she ate them up with her eyes.

How could they say such unflattering things? Lay accusations of the past down at their paws, especially as they were trying to make up for them! There was a flame burning below his scales as he pressed close as Lyndis side, fighting the urge to let loose his fury upon these fools. He was a dragon, his beloved a queen, they should be respected as such! At the fifth time he and Lyndis tried to get their attention in the polite manner, he thrashed his tail with a force of thunder. No more mister nice dragon.

“Enough!" He roared with the force of a storm, slamming his paw down and putting an end to their ceaseless prattle. “We are not some simple guests that you might insult, traveling mages of parlor tricks. She is Lyndis, traveler of the realms of Sethera, friend of dragons and QUEEN of Drenedar. I am Radiant Star, son of the Emerald Lady, and we deserve your respect as you would be another elder. You're lucky we don't have the same temperament as the foe that seeks to end you, or I'd end the lot of you right now for such an insulting display."

The air went dead silent as his threat lingered upon the air. No one dared move a muscle as the dragon had adopted an aggressive posture, his teeth bared, wings half unfurled. The tension only dropped when Lyndis stepped forward, cleared her throat and took a bow.

“Now that we have your attentions, we can begin. What my lovely Radiant Star here was trying to say, is that we come seeking aid from the great clans of the siigonis people. Yes, I admit that I rejected the offering of a mate many moons ago, but such sacrifices I was not ready to make. I can't take that back, the past can't be changed." She gave a solemn bow before continuing. “I ask you to put aside these petty problems and focus on the danger that threatens us all. East of your lands dwells a host of bone and rotten flesh, insidious monsters that would end the existence of the living if given the chance. Like a plague they infest my land, sweeping aside town after town. My family didn't do what was necessary to defend my people, and now it falls upon my shoulders."

She took a deep breath as Cordenth nudged at her side, he was there for her. “Their numbers go unchecked, they batter against every piece of my kingdom."

“And how does this concern us?" Remarked Chi'tin, leaning his snout upon his fist. “The undead never have troubled our lands before, our hunters and warriors crush their rotted skulls. This sounds like a just reward for the land of human and elf."

“You would say that." Lyndis shot back, “The elves said the same thing one hundred years ago when the undead marched before. They thought themselves safe, secure, unwilling to accept the aid of humankind, but look what happened to them. Their cities burned, their people died, if not for the dragon known as the swirling storm and my ancestors, Drenedar would have fallen then! Even as we speak, the leader of this undead hoard dwells within your swamps, taking from you without your knowledge!"

There was a startled murmuring among the elders, with the white siigonis leaning forward with a furrowed brow, “And how do we know this isn't an elven trick? Have you proof of this?"

“Getting to that." She grinned, rounding the hall as she continued her plea. “You'll find the human village of Gearmell gone and dead, their people slaughtered for getting wind of the undead's plot!" With conviction she told them of the druid's temple, the Queen of Eternal flame, and the ritualistic sacrifice of the siigonis eggs. “She used them to fuel some unholy spell, of which we suspect was to allow her access to the swamp of shadows to the north!"

“And why would she want to get there?" The shadow clan matron asked, eyes perked in interest. “Such a place denies most who try to get in, and those that emerge don't speak of what dwells within, why would this undead leader go there?"

“The uniter!" Lyndis replied, a look of pain flashing across her face. But in a breath, she'd composed herself, “A device crafted by the devious hands of the Lumarians, a weapon that's capable of destroying whole cities in it's path! We know, for the city of Wallowdale was obliterated in the blink of an eye, my own father…fell trying to bring it to an end."

“You can't be serious." Scoffed Chi'tin, dismissing her as the other elders expressed equal amounts of disbelief. “A weapon that can destroy an entire city? Not to mention the accusation that our own kind would turn on one another." His gaze hardened, “You insult us with such an accusation."

“Still doesn't make it any less so." She shot back as Cordenth pressed closer. “And we have a priest from the place that says otherwise."

“Bah, that could be lies, coerced from the treacherous tongue of a warmblood whose once before disregarded us. Only when she has no choice she comes, expecting us to heel like we're her dogs. She's no different than the elves that came many years ago. Now she brings a dragon with her to deceive us. We should dismiss of them."

Oh that was the final straw. To be called a liar so many times, were these siigonis blind or willingly dense? He flared his wings and let forth a snarl, flicking away a pair of guards who foolishly tried to assail him. “You accuse us of lies?" Growled Cordenth, “We have come with proof, a witness to what transpired. We even stole a book of dark magic to present to you. But why do I suspect that you will toss that out as well? Do you wish to be ignorant to the truth? I was down within that temple, watching your people butcher a dragon of great renown." He curled his tail, the fire returning, even imagining what they'd done to Revaramek. “He squirmed, trembled, was reduced to nothing but a pig to slaughter. Don't you dare and sit there, telling me those were lies. "

There was a hushed pause that fell around the hall at the mere mention of Revaramek's name. It seemed even with his absence it had a power all its own. Then the calm drained, Akron shifting forward in her chair, eyes darting between Broxl and the captured priest.

“Is this true?" Akron asked, her voice was hushed, full of disbelief. “Revaramek still lives?"

“You believe such a thing?" Chi'tin scoffed, “They speak of weapons that rival the power of the gods, and tales lost to the ages. They are still trying to manipulate us."

The sun clan siigonis called him out, gesturing to Lyndis with a hiss. “We are not fools, are the fire clan so? I wish to hear more of what they are going on about, wish to interrogate their captive. Only then can we illuminate if they are telling truths or falsehoods."

“I agree." Voiced the shadow clan matron, “I've found many manipulators in my time, they do not appear to be doing so. Which does not bode well for our people."

“Brother Broxl." Akron rose, “You accompanied them, yes? Does what Radiant Star hold true? Does lord Revaramek still live?"

Broxl lowered his head in solemn prayer, “I did not believe my eyes elder, I thought it was a dream, seldom one think they've would have encountered such a thing. Though this dragon is blusterous at times, overbearing, and proud…" He peered back, tail swishing, “He speaks such truths."

The elder nodded with a satisfied smirk, “See Chi'tin? According to you, our enemy and clansman tell us the same time, their case grows ever stronger."

“Bah! You're only believe that because he's one of your own." Snorted Chi'tin.

“Perhaps it because my people are patient and thoughtful, If he said he saw such a thing." The woman dimmed, drum her talons nervously on her throne. “Then we have a dark line of siigonis turned away from the path."

“But why would they do so? There had to be a reason." Deyos leaned in, stroking her jaw. “Coin, power? Magics? We will have an interesting time with their prisoner."

“If it proves true there is only one thing to do." Chi'tin snarled, miming a ripping out still beating heart. “Rots of the siigonis tree must be removed to preserve the rest."

They settled down, tensions dimmed, conversation started to overtake the hall. They had choices to make, Siigonis to move, Lyndis made her plea for aid vs the undead in these moments, under Cordenth's victorious smirk.

“We will think on this." Akron eventually said softly as the others started to leave, “We will discuss this in more detail. It's a big investment for our kind."

“I understand." Lyndis replied.

“But you are brave, more than foolish. You have our thanks for bringing such dire news to us." She gave Lyndis a nod before striding away with a smile. “I'll try to convince the rest. For I suggest you enjoy yourselves for the evening. Come morning the choice will be made, and whatever path we walk will dictate the future."

Turning on his paw, Cordenth led the way out, all too proud of himself as the others chittered about what this would mean. Lyndis leaning on his scales was all that mattered to him. She was a lighting a fire in his chest as he gazed out to the jungle city full of possibilities down below. “Well, I vote we get to getting pampered and waited on paw and hand, if anyone deserves a good relaxation, it is I."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Thank you all for tagging along in this adventure as we follow along with Cordenth, Lyndis, Broxl and Vishta. If you like it, don't forget to favorite and vote it a few stars. If you feel like being awesome, leave a comment below, I certainly read them and respond!

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