FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Ossai unwound herself as a disappointed sigh escaped both of them. The disruption had come from a stout looking man, his face wrinkled more than a grape. Leaning heavily on a gnarled staff he looked them up and down with wizened eyes. He lightly brushed his stained greyed robes stained and adjusted his crumpled hat with a bright green stripe around the middle. “Wait ever a moment." His hand caressed his chin, rubbing about the heavy stubble about his face. “You're Croesus!" The man exclaimed with a smile, heartily patting his beer belly. “What drags you to my doorstep after all these years? I havn't seen you in an elf's age!"

Croesus?" Ossai turned to the gryph with a raised eye. “I thought it was Sepharim?"

“Code name." He grinned sheepishly. Just like Green lady isn't yours."

“Emerald Lady."

“Same difference."

Croesus composed himself, politely laying out what thing they'd gotten up to in the while. The wizard was introduced as Warrick, a fine purveyor and explorer of the mystical arts.

“And look what I found!" The man waved the curious gryphon over to a well-stocked carriage, with bags, crates and even a few kegs filled to the brim with what the man described as “Vintage dwarven ale!" From the oil smeared satchels, he plucked out a gleaming scale the size of his palm, one that rippled with vibrant colors and seemed to set the air around it aglow. “Dragon called smoky had this buried deep within his hoard. Deep within the foggy mountains, overlooking a town he'd claimed. Something about it being his land. Should have seen the trouble we and some dwarfs had to go through to get this. Had to hire a damned thief on the adventure!"

“Just typical isn't it?" Ossai's eyes narrowed as the man grinned from ear to ear about his well-planned caper. “Furry, stout little humanoids sneaking up on a dragon to take what's his?" Without warning her blood had started to warm.

“Oh, don't give me that look lady elf. This one wasn't some good aligned beast of the people. This one was killing dwarves left and right. Kicked them outta their caverns years ago."

“Perhaps it was his land before they wandered in? Hmmm?" She hardened her stance. “Took a nice long nap and found dwarves infesting his land?"

“That's always the problem though isn't it?" He waved her off. “Maybe it shouldn't have taken quite the nap." Warrick waved her off, extending a hand in greeting. “Croesus hasn't traveled with friends in quite some time. Not after…"

“I heard about it." She put an end to his side stepping, at least wanting to spare Croesus the splayed ears and soured thoughts. “Were here for now. To get rid of these runes." She pulled up one of the sleeves of her arm, showing off the runes. “They impede my magic."

“Straight to the point hmm? The wizard tapped his chin. “Havn't even let me unpack my things. “ He gestured to the cart before sliding to her, hands clasping tight her arm. “Rather interesting. His eyes lit with curiosity, grabbing and touching the blackened lines. 'So how long have you been able to talk? Do they hurt? Can you see better or worse than you did before?"

She answered each question politely but her words grit her teeth the longer she flicked her gaze back to his won treasure. More than once she had to bite her lip from scowling at the man. They needed him after all..

“Fascinating." The wizard pulled her arm to inches from his eyes, crooked nose practically brushing up against her. “Fine work by them as always."

“I care not for their craftsmanship. Can you remove them or not?"

Warrick tossed down her arm, instead marching over to Croesus and swinging one arm around his neck. “Croesus, have you seen my pet? I've yet to give him his treat!" The wizard's attention wavered, striding away the inspect the gryphon instead. “And my word. Always a new scar it seems, how many is it this time?"

“Pet, scars?" She followed with clenched fists. “Focus human. I don't intend to be rude, but it's an irritating endeavor to be trapped in a useless body."

“Warrick's eyes found hers, nodding in agreement. “His name is fluffy. Giant worm thing. Likes to snap. Some might call it a Remoraz. Such a wonderful creature."

Her and Croesus' eyes widened as a silence hung between the pair. “That was yours?" She finally blurted, “Have you any clue what that worm tried to do?"

“Give kisses? He loves doing that!"

Croesus rolled his eyes with an irritated chirp. “That's one way to fucking describe it."

“It tried to eat me! It broke my leg!" She growled ,thrusting a finger into the wizard's face.

“He was playing!" Warrick took a step back, laughing nervously.

With a fluff of his feathers Croesus glared at the wizard. “How about we play that way a few rounds?"

“Maybe when I have the energy. Not as much in my old age!" He placed his hands to his waist, glancing around the surrounding area. “Most peculiar. He usually comes running when I return home. When was it you saw him again?"

Before she could announce his death Ossai caught herself. They still needed him after all. Last thing they needed was him getting cross that his glorified pet was dead. There was an uncomfortable silence that lingered between them until she tapped Croesus on the neck with the back of her hand.

“Winter actually." Croesus coughed. “Around the lake area. Havn't seen him since." The gryphon's tail shifted to the other side.

“Huh." Warrick tapped his foot. “He's never been one to go for a swim. Terrible thing for them."

“Funny thing that." With a snap of her finger she tried to rein in the conversation. “Perhaps he developed a taste for it in your absence?"

“I suppose so…" Warrick trailed off, gazing off into oblivion. She returned his attention with a snap of her finger and irritated groan. “Oh right. What was it you wanted again? I'm going to be doing quite the unpacking. It could take me almost ten minutes!" The wizard flicked his wrist like a dueling rapier, and turned to his cottage. Wood screeched in the air as it cracked and shifted. Dust billowed from the base in thick clouds. Like a pelican the house lifted up it's roof and swallowed the cart wheels and all. A flash of a crimson rug was all she could see, like one long tongue .

“There we are." The wizard dusted his hands. “Quite the work. Always wears me out." His eyes found Croesus lighting over with glee. “So, what keeps you away for so long?"

The gryphon's reply was snappy. “You struck me with a firebolt." He gestured to a mark on his haunches with a wing.

“Oh right!" The mage snapped his fingers, “You deserved it though!"

“I hardly think it was that."

“Oh really? What was this story?" Ossai crossed her arms.

“One that is overly wrong and doesn't need repeating."

The wizard nodded in agreement. “Enough ale passed between our lips for that night anyway. We can forget words said to one another. We were both young and foolish…And adventurous."

Croesus rolled his eyes, grumbling. “And he shares more than needed."

“Why are we best friends again?"

“We're not." His beak clacked defiantly. “We're more like acquaintances that don't kill one another."

The mage smacked his hip. “See this is why you should visit more! I love these little chats! Did you want tea perhaps? And for the lady?"

“Okay!" Ossai cleaved through the conversation like a woodsman's axe. “Enough of the banter. Enough of the cart eating house. All I need is the runes removed. Least I can tell that you don't need to like one another to do it."

“Untrue." The wizard held up a finger. “The spell works entirely on the magical friendship that I and the gryphon share." When she glared at him with daggers he glanced away nervously. “Well obviously someone can't take a joke."

“Now's not the time." Croesus hissed.

“But she's being rather rude!" The mage threw up his hands, face wrinkling. “I just got back, and the woman is making demands of me!"

“Because unlike you my patience is not infinite. If you're not going to aid me then point me in the direction that will. So, can you remove these runes without blathering away?"

“No." The mage stuck up his head, arms crossing front of his chest. “It requires lots of blathering."

“Now don't be hasty now." Croesus chuckled, curling around the man with an extended wing. “She's just rather upset and impatient. We traveled a long time to get here, dealt with your pet. You disrupted a ever so pleasant get together. So please. Reconsider the request."

“I would, but I can't remove those runes! Unless you count burning them off her skin. But she wouldn't survive that!"

“Wait why?" She did a double take, staring blankly as he flashed her his palms.

He gave her a tilted head, “Well you see if we apply too much heat to the body…"

“No not that. The rune bit. Why can't you?"

“Cause its rather complicated?" The man scoffed. “I mean, I'm flattered people think I can do most things, but when you're talking about removing those runes. That is a magic that is even beyond me. Maybe give me a few dozen more years and I could….but now?" He chuckled in amusement. “I;m no better than an apprentice."

Sound soon dulled for the dragoness. The clacking of Croesus' beak withering away into unintelligible noise. Numbness started to change to heat as she spun round, walking off with her eyes wide. They'd wasted time. Almost died and got nothing to show for it. Even as Croesus tried to show his concern it wasn't enough to stop the coming tide. Pain, anger, frustration all released as her eyes lit with fire.

“If we'd only gone straight for their throat. This wouldn't have happened!" She struck his beak with her fingertip. “So much time has been wasted. Months, I nearly died. All in this vain attempt. If you'd have just listened to my gut and gone for the throat we wouldn't be here."

He stared right back at her, matching her own intensity. “You're right." He searched her up and down. “You'd be locked away and experimented on. Or dead. Guess you'd prefer that, though right? Cause what'd I know? I'm just an inferior gryphon!"

“Is your concern just for me or that of redemption for you? Am I just a representation of those you lost? Spare me the noble gryphon act. We have quite the journey ahead of us. To believe four months have been wasted on you."

“You thought they were wasted?" He shifted from talon to talon, hurt lacing his words. When she didn't soften or apologize, he hardened.

“I'm not going. Want to die that bad? Find someone else."

“So, staying here scared then? What about that loyalty?"

“It got you here. To safety." He snapped, stomping his talon and seemingly setting fire to the air. “Away from those men. Away from their studies and experiments."

“And yet I'd rather be at risk and getting my scales back. You think what I've done in the past was always safe?" She launched mockingly. “Now either help me get my body back or move aside. There will be no time to dawdle. I've been distracted for far too long."

Croesus' beak opened and closed in silent anger. “There's the dragoness lord." He snapped, spinning around so forcefully that he almost struck her with his tail. “And a safe journey to you lady. Try to not wind up dead. Would be a terrible shame to ruin all that beauty."

“This isn't even my true form coward!"

“Wasn't talking about that!"

How dare he-

She stewed in her thoughts by the fire until the morning. Once the sun had risen, she was stashing her things back in her pack. Clothes, rope, food for the road. Sleeping bag and assorted other things. The last item she'd grabbed was the healing kit he'd used to stitch her back together. Where he'd brought her back from the brink. Already her heart was starting to ache.

Enough of that though. She had a quest to complete, and she'd do it with or without feathery aid. With a savage shake of her head she stashed it in with the rest, throwing the pack onto her back and barging out the door.

To think that she had soft thoughts of him. Disarming and welcoming thoughts as she caressed his feathers. Delighted herself on the closeness of his fur. Relaxed to the pleased tones of his joyous laughter. All like bitter poison now. She disregarded the mage as she barreled past him, not waiting for whatever useless drivel was to fly from his lips.

She'd only gotten as far as the tree line when a rustle of wings pulled her around. Croesus had landed with a bumpy trot. His harness all tethered up, armor in its place. His angered demeanor seemed to flow with him like a river as he stomped over to her. His voice was tight as he glared at her. “Hop on. You're not going alone."

She smirked. Somehow, she expected this to be the outcome. “What about letting me go alone?"

“Not doing it for not you lady. I'll get you back to that town but no further. We part ways after that. Regardless of what happens."

“I can live with that." She clambered up onto him. Straightening her back when she was fastened in. With a demand he leapt into the air, though grumbling the entire time.

* * ** * * * * * *

“You can stop your worrying. I don't think they can even see you up at this altitude. You're fidgeting like a scared little sparrow." Ossai leaned out from the white gryphon, his feathers ruffling from the chilly wind that wrapped around them. His familiar scent wafted around her as he flicked his wings and carried them over treetops bathed in the setting sun's blazing light. He swayed to and fro through the air, fraction of inches at a time. Just enough for her to notice and scowl. Like he was testing her patience. Defiantly prodding her with a stick over her decision. One that he continued to mumble or grumble about during bouts of silence, or in their campfire's glow. She paid them little heed though. Long as he got her back to the town and on the path to get back to her body. She'd find allies that would be willing to help. Ones that wouldn't shake in their fur over their foes. For a moment she thought it was the mere wind shifting them, but then he peered back to her, his eyes yellow specters in the setting sun.

No…He's definitely doing it to annoy me. Her brow stitched together as she glanced out to a passing lake, spying their dot of a image drifting along in the tree shadow laced waters.

“How wrong you are lady." He chuckled calmly with a chirp. “Why ever would I be fidgeting?"

So, this was the way he was going to be.

Her blood started to warm, and not just from the wind's icy fingers. “Only you can answer that conundrum. Speak plainly gryphon if you've a complaint." She caught his sunflower gaze, those deep eyes as if trying to read her thoughts. For a moment there was silence and her heart throbbed from the momentary harshness she got returned. Especially as she could see a glimmer of tenderness. Most likely a ghost of her own, somewhere deep down. Without warning thoughts of the journey's nights came bubbling up to her. How they slept next to one another. Blankets draped over one another for warmth. How more than once they'd found themselves pressed up close, she clutching warm feathers with her arms, his wings folded over both of them to create a comforting prison. Even their difference in opinions didn't matter in this time. Each evening spent in abandoned forts , lush valleys, or stony mountains, seemed oh less lonely with him around. For the warmth is what they told each other, but when they caught each other's gazes there was silence, and understanding. These moments would be flickering along like the fluttering of a moth's wings before a lantern. Her cheeks would warm, and he'd glance away.

He drifted towards the outskirts of Steer's Crossing. Their appearance tugging on her heartstrings. Did she want him around? She brushed it away. Chocking it up to mere nerves.

“Well here we are." He sounded a tad disappointed as the buildings appeared to rise out of the forest in a manner of wing flaps. “ He found a clearing amidst the growing trees, landing with a bumpy trott, and scattering of a family of chattering squirrels. She asked why the distance away from the town but she already had it figured it out.

Magisters.

“Oh you know human folk." He laughed in the back of his throat. “Scared by the sound of wings on the air. Best do it proper. That way we don't spook the daylights out of them."He helped her off, her legs all wiggly from the trip. She hated to say it, but it was good to be back on the ground. The soft ground beneath her feet, the longer grass brushing against her legs. Relief passed through her lungs that made her eyes widen.

Am I getting used to not flying?

The thought made her shiver. Like cold water poured down her spine. Best she get her body back sooner. Before she started thinking of this body as her own. While she stretched away her skylegs Croesus started to preen non chalantly, pretending to not watch as she went about the grass.

Again her heart throbbed within her chest. Like someone was squeezing it with a hardened claw. Seconds had already started to feel like hours. Was she really going to let him go? After all they'd been through thus far?

“This the part where we go on our different ways then?" She tried to play off her vulnerability by cracking her neck.

He passed her with a flick of his tail. “I'll take you to the gate. Rather not have you pounced on before you even got to your destination!"

“Sure." She smiled, resting a hand on his tiger like flank. Perhaps with but a word she could sway him to stay?

“How noble you are. The bravery on display is most notable." She bowed her head, following in tandem after the not so amused gryphon. Despite his rather somber attitude his continued caring for her was rather touching. Like a loyal knight to his queen. She pressed forward, smiling to herself as he couldn't but glance at her and guide her through the beaten path to town. She'd already convinced him to come this far. What would it take to get him to go further? She admired his muscular frame, the powerful claws attached.

The ones that plucked you from certain death. He could still be useful in her endeavor. She just had to get him to follow but a tad bit longer. But how to do that? She admired the casual flick of his stripped tail as he cleared his throat.

“Something amiss?" He'd caught her staring at him. Without a hint of hesitation, she turned to him with upmost grace.

“I was contemplating where you'd go after our departure. Where the skills of fair Croesus will find themselves."

“Uh-huh. Something that couldn't have been asked the many nights of our return?"

His brow challenged her statement. She'd better put out that knowing glint in his eye. The one that hinted that she might fancy him. As preposterous as that may be. A mighty dragoness courted by a mere mortal gryphon?

Utterly ridiculous. The emperor's daughter to boot. “It didn't seem prudent leading up to this moment. But It marches forward ever so quickly. My mind can't release it. To my growing Ire. You're nothing more than a distraction. Flickering about with each step."

He chirped happily, growing a frown from her. “So that's at least a confirmation that I'm a distraction to you. Not to hard to read between those lines."

“Nothing of the sort." She snapped back quickly, trying to rid that growing smirk on his beak of its power. “Trust me. When you're departed It will be quite the relief off my shoulders."

“I can't seem to find it." He peered around her, searching high and low. “Perhaps I should go ask the servants to go fetch this growing weight?"

“Not a literal one." She growled, smacking his side. It was within their next stride around a large oak tree did the weathered gate appear in view. How long ago it seemed that she first strolled up to such a place. The drunk guards to greet her. She and Croesus exchanged glances, both clearly not ready for the other to leave. She could see it in the sun reflected in his eye, the caring focus centered squarely on her.

Did she really dread the coming moment? The pit in her heart his absence would bring? Is that why her heart was pounding in her ear, her hands trembling at the thought? Would it break her heart to see him fly away? The only being in this world that'd risked himself for her?

He's just a gryphon Ossai. Remember that.

But then she saw a reflection of herself within his eyes. A timidness that didn't befit her. The longer she stayed like that she'd feel the urge to demand that he stay.

“You know." He coughed, turning away. “Dropping you off on your lonesome isn't really going to do you any good. You'd right be at square one."

“True."

“So, I knew these friends on the outskirts of town. Where I was heading the first time. “

“Go on." Her arms crossed. Was he going to beat her to it? Her heart nearly skipped at the idea.

“Though she might be rather..." He kneaded the ground. “Cross."

“How so?" She pulled up his beak, hesitant eyes flicking back and forth.

“Funny story it was. Supposed to get me into the magister keep last time. Instead, met you first. And we know how the plan went from there."

“So you left her high and dry."

He nodded.

Oh hell. “And you expect her to help? Even after that?"

“We go way back." He rubbed his chest with the back of his claw, as if trying to convince himself. “Might take some convincing, but I always do with her."

Maybe it was her willingness to have him around, or her quickening heart. She agreed and rid her sight of the gate. With an almost literal bounce in her step he brought her back to the clearing. Was it warmer now? Everything seemed to have warmed as she clambered onto his back. With a pleased chirp they were back into the air.

It wasn't a long trip above the trees, but it was one that was rather low. He skimmed the treetops with his hinds, following a river through the forest. She could just make out a trodden path that ran along it, beaten with the hooves of many horses. Then there came a smallish house, one with a tan roof. Trees had been cleared around it, a field of flowers before it's front door. They'd just landed with a series of flaps when the sun had all but drifted below the horizon. They were encased in shadow, but candles were lit from inside, setting a soft glow about the area. They could hear laughter from the backyard. Clearly someone was having a good time.

Before the door was a silvered chime, that whispered like a ghost as they landed and approached. “Let me do the talking." Croesus stepped in front of her to shield her from view.

“Is she going to be mad at you?"

“Possibly. Just let me get it started alright?"

She nodded, placing her palm on the top of his tail.

“I'd rather start on the right talon. Instead of showing her the pretty face that ruined our plans."

“Pretty face?" She scoffed, cheeks warming as he chirped. “Lets see if you keep that when I return."

“Guess we will." He took a calming breath, then rattled the front door with a series of knocks. “Brenda? Are you in?"

From inside came the resounding crash of a teacup striking the floor. Croesus called out again, in a higher tone than before.

“Yea I heard you!" Came the snarl of a woman as the door came swinging open. Her hair was short, her eyes narrowed, and sweat was dripping down her brow. Her eyes burned with brown fire. She wiped her fingers on a dark green vest, freckles dotting her olivecheeks. “Happy to see you Croesus." She gestured back towards the door. “As usual you come back into my life and something breaks. So what's the occasion this time? Magister's on your tail again? Last suicide mission yet again?"

“Mixture of both?" He said, shrugging with his wings.

“Do you know how hard it was to bribe those people?

“I take it a whole lot?"

Like lightning she surged out and smacked his beak, “Now you come back batting eyes at me? Oh please Brenda help me. I'm a prideful gryphon."

“I'm not batting my eyes."

“Pfff." Her hands went to her hips as she looked the gryphon up and down. “Please, you're practically glowing with-“ She leaned up, trying to sneak a peak over his shoulder. “So what's the real reason you've come back to town? Don't tell me it's to gander at the sights."

“Silence permeated the air as the gryphon shifted, revealing Ossai to the woman. “I found her. Needed my help."

“Focken course." The woman gave Croesus a sly smile. “Find a pretty girl to help. Can't resist leaping to her rescue. Not everyone needs a protector Croesus."

“I'm aware of that!" The gryphon puffed up his feathers. “Stop your slanderous tongue. I don't leap to every fair face's defense."

The woman slipped past Croesus as he continued clacking his beak in protest, her finger tracing along gryphon's sides as she extended a welcoming hand. “Where are my manners? Names Brenda."

Ossai shook the woman's hand after giving it a questioning look. “Arenneda"

“Course he doesn't introduce you first." Brenda laughed, casting a glance back to the beak half open gryphon. His tail swaying irritating behind him. “Always a rude thing. Once you peel away the layers."

“Again, with the falsehoods!" He shifted with a resounding chirp. “You sure know how to twist the tales…"

“Woulda been a whole different story if you were the one asking for help." The woman turned to Ossai, devilishly smirking as Croesus fumed behind her. “Do you know how many times I've had to listen to drunken trills? Talons that seem to drift towards my hips by themselves?" Croesus ducked his head, ears pinning to his head.

“Course she mentions that."

“Far too many to count. Hides that side of him with the noble gryphon act." She placed a hand to her chest, raising her head.

“Is that so?" Ossai's wandered to Croesus' side as the gryphon shifted from paw to paw. “Sadly my interest is not on weither or not his talons would be-“ She sighed, “Groping up by backside. But you knew someone that could take care of these." She held out her arm, showing off the runes that had plagued her thus far. Even as she stared at them in the dwindling light of the cottage they looked like a poisonous rash.

Brenda's eyes widened as hands lashed out to grope and prod along her flesh. “Y-You're a bonded." She gasped.

Ossai's eyes rolled. “That is what everyone has been telling me thus far. Quite the inconvenience as you can picture. Until they are removed my magic is useless." She waved a hand, curling her fingers. “Cannot even call upon the simplest of cantrips."

“Is that so?" Brenda cupped her chin, rubbing with interest as her gaze traveled from her feet then back again. She hummed her interest, tapping her foot. “That certainly gives me a few ideas."

“See?" Croesus interjected. “I told you it was a mighty complicated. She had to be protected." He seemed to smirk, puffing out his chest. “And you were starting to poke ever so much fun at-“

The woman smacked the gryphon's chest, glaring daggers at him. Before he could even utter a rebuttal, she was snapping her fingers towards the side of her house, her voice like a hiss. “Now be getting out back before someone sees you showing that off. Honestly.For someone trying to be helpsome, you're doing a piss poor job."

Ossai smiled and Croesus puffed up his feathers.

“We were doing fine up until the Remoraz!"

Brenda glanced back and forth, and over the gryphon. Like she was searching for something behind them. “Did you even make sure you weren't followed?"

“Course we did." Croesus laughed, his ears splaying on either side.

“Just get out back." She growled, practically slamming the door and bringing life to the chime. Ossai stood silently, waiting for Croesus to break the silence that wrapped around them. The gryphon pinned back his feathers, seemingly trying to find the words.

“Well that went better than expected."

“That was good for you?" Ossai's laugh bubbled out her throat as Croesus' look hardened. “I saw that look. That human has a resentment for you…Lurking just below the surface."

“Nonsense…Just cross cause of last time." He rose his head, staring off into the hills with a deep breath." She might be sour I left her dry but she's a good-hearted soul. Likes to see the orange blooded creeps scared too. So, don't get your scales worried. She'll sort you out fine."

“And you?" Ossia rose her brow, trying her best to give the gryphon the largest eyes she could muster. “You're not going to stay any longer?" Her hand rose to catch his beak, gently supporting it in her palms.

The gryphon sighed, taking a step back and lowering his feathers. “Best be heading out. She'll do ya right. Just you see." Though he glanced away from her and then back, seemingly captivated by her eyes. His ears flicked with hesitation while her pulse quickened. Did he also doubt his words? His conviction? Despite herself she found herself hoping her did.

She sighed, resting a hand on his side as they began to round the small cottage coated with flowers to a smallish clearing between a ring of thick oak trees and weathered rocks covered in scrawling of colored chalk. It appeared as if someone had gone about cleaving away through any brush and grass to set up a tiny area reserved just for others. Within it was a crackling camp fire set close to a thin table. The orange light casting a warm glow about the area. Vines hung from the cottage's wooden beams, with colorful flowers resting peacefully. Vanilla wafted along the air like a siren's song, tugging at more friendlier memories as Croesus' muscles rippled below her fingertips. There was laughter in the air, along with the familiar faces of August and Mira. Sitting in chairs, nursing tankards and enjoying the flames radiating warmth.

“We'll I'll be." August laughed, curling his arm around Mira. His whiskers practically bouncing. “Here I thought we'd never see your faces again!" He rose his frothy rimmed tankard their way, “Did you get the whole runes thing taken care of miss?"

Ossai shook her head with a sigh as the gryphon's steps came slower, his eyes narrowed.

“Are you hooked up?" Croesus' head tilted.

“Caught me!" August laughed, smooching Mira on the cheek.

“This pussy has been all to sweet since you left." Mira giggled, taking a sip from her tankard.

“It's true!" August purred, rubbing her back, staring into her eyes. “Should have seen it. Gathered the courage to ask her out on a ride."

“Then we got caught in the rain." She countered, tapping his nose till it wiggled. “Sky damn near tried to ruin it! Wetter than the damn river. But." She sighed, cupping his furred chin. “He was ever so sweet and cute." She applied a small kiss to him. “Good thing I like wet pussys."

Well that was enough of that crude joke. Ossai slunk to one of the empty chairs, setting herself within it. The fire's warmth massaged a sigh from her as she sunk back into the wooden thing. It wasn't as comfortable as the wizard's bed, but it would do.

“Congratulations on your coupling." She shot back, longfully staring at the patiently waiting Croesus. Was he going to leave?

“Well come on then!" August smacked his knee. “Come on Croesus, get to settling in with your lady friend! Tell us all you've been up to now and again." He gave a lustful growl, lifting his eyebrows. “How lonely the road can be."

“There was none of that."

“Because no one molests poor, innocent, mercenary gryphons?" Brenda laughed, emerging from the back of the flower decorated rear of their cottage. Within her hands was a wooden tray with assorted meats and cheeses that seemed to glisten in the firelight. “Lucky for you that Bitch is eating for two now."

Mira gasped. “You call her that?"

“Why not?" Brenda chuckled, casting a lovingly look towards her door. “You love it right?" She gestured to the door frame, where a brown furred wolven hobbled in, dressed in a lacy white dress. Sections were cut into the bottom, her lupine eyes heldd no malice, only a smile about her muzzle and ears perked. She cradled a rounded stomach, clearly pregnant.

“She's just being cute." The wolf woman said sweetly, following Brenda to an empty chair. When the human woman started to fuss and help the wolf smacked aside her hand. “I'm not a child. I can seat myself!"

“Y-you're pregnant!" Croesus stammered.

“Thanks for noticing." The wolven laughed, turning to Brenda with a smirk. “And you said he was the smarter one?"

“Right." Brenda smooched her wife on the snout. “Clearly not classy though." She in turn offered the food to the others.

Was she really going to just settle down and eat? Ossai's brow wrinkled as the group started feasting upon their little snacks, laughing about common topics as the weather or people she knew not of. “What can be done about my problem?" She announced clearly, perhaps louder than she intended.

Brenda shrugged, offering her a slice of cheese. “Nothing."

“Nothing? How can you say that? You're willing to spring into action for Croesus!" She gestured back to the gryphon. Who was now appearing to back away. “Surely you can pick up from that plan?"

Her eyes rolled practically from her head. “Impatient one ain't ya."

“I've waited for months. Nearly died. I demand to get my body back."

“And you can wait a bit longer." Brenda took a bite, smiling and thanking her “Bitch" for the cheese. “Thing is mrs elf. Things have dried up since his last visit." Brenda clicked her lips. “Things can't be done till tomorrow. People need to be told and put into place. Can't just summon them up like a genie."

“But that would be wonderful." The wolven sighed. “Then maybe I wouldn't have to be carrying this pup." She rubbed her belly.

“Right?" August took a drink, “Id wish up a whole batch of yarn!"

Mira squealed in a delighted shriek, stabbing Ossai's ears as the woman cackled like a madman and slumped to the grass.

“We'll….She's done."

“You're a cat!"

Oh, what foolishness this was. The once dragoness' eyes narrowed as the group tended to the clearly drunk girl. Even Croesus was itching to leave. She could see it in his squirming. If she was to get him to stay it would have to be now.

And you might not see him again. But it wouldn't be that bad…Would it? She fidgeted in her seat, remembering the nights they spent with one another. Those delightful evenings where she wasn't alone, and frankly enjoyed herself.

“So." Brenda kicked up her feet, sliding off her boots. “You settle in, have some fun. Just be glad no one here is humping the celebration away,

“We could be." Mira mumbled into the dirt.

“And I should be taking wing." Croesus flicked his head to the sky. “I was only bringing this one here to you. Promise to keep."

Brenda was quick to snap at him. “And pass up socializing with your friends? Now doesnt this beat a cave or nest? We got a warm fire, drink, and stories! Don't tell me you've turned into some fun hating bird since we parted!"

“She has you on that one." Ossai quickly blurted, trying to hide her want. “Got you trapped." She internally cheered as the gryphon's ears splayed. He wanted to stay as well.

“Sides, you still got to tell us about your lady friend. Why she made you change your mind on the plan. You least owe me an explanation."

Croesus glared at the now smirking woman, his ears flicking slightly down.

“What would be one night hmm?" Ossai shrugged, locking eyes with her gryphon protector. “Let this woman have your mind, and I'll be set come morning to continue on without you."

The gryphon stared at her for an extended time, silence lingering between them. He broke it with a sigh, slinking over and plopping himself onto his belly. “Fine, you win. I'll stay the night."

“Good decision." She rested a hand onto the base of his neck, internally smiling. “I knew you were smart."

“YES!" Mira cackled, weakly pushing herself from the ground.

“Knew it!" Brenda smacked her knee. “Now tell us!"

“This is what you wanted isn't it?" Croesus leaned in, whispering in Ossai's ear as the others looked on expectantly.

“Partially. I'd not like to see you in the cold." She was quick to grab some cheese, smiling to herself as he wiggled ever closer to her. “Maybe I wanted you around longer."

His crowns suddenly flew up with his perked ears. “Well. If' I'm staying." He shot Brenda a smile. “Get me some ale. I'd like to least have a reason to not fly."

“YAY! Stories!" Mira stood, flopping onto a now cackling August. The cat cradled her in his arms, stroking about her temple.

Brenda rose, kissing at Bitch's cheek as the wolven sighed at the mention of ale. “Don't worry dear. When it's my turn to bear child. Then you can drink all the ale you want." That drew a loving lick before Brenda slipped into her cottage, returning moments later with a makeshift cup. Like it had been slapped together by a novice sculptor. Though it seemed to have one purpose in mind. It was large enough for the gryphon's claw.

“They couldn't conceive cause they both woman." Mira mimed her hands together, bumping two fists. She giggled with red cheeks. “Got a strong warrior to plough one into her!"

“Mira!" Bitch giggled, waving the girl off. “How much have you had?"

“Not that much! You got strong stuff! Sides, you going to get another strapping man to seed Brenda when it's her turn?" August covered the girl's mouth with a loving kiss to her temple.

“Shhhhh."

“Here. Kept this old bugger in case you came round." Brenda pressed the makeshift tankard into Croesus' waiting talons. “Wonder why you even left it."

“Maybe it would be a reason to return." He shrugged, sniffing at the drink before dipping a testing tongue. He warbled. “Home brewed?"

“Always." Brenda smirked. “Seems you never lost the beak for the good stuff." Her eyes found Ossai, widening at the realization she'd forgotten her. Without a word she dashed back to her cottage, almost tripping on the way out with another tankard held in her hands. She rushed her apology, cheeks burning as she pushed the drink into Ossai's waiting hands.

Well. She wasn't going to come closer to her body tonight. Shrugging, Ossai grasped the tankard and sniffed at the red concoction. She was met with a fruity smelling drink of berries and apples wafting along like a pleasurable breeze.

Eventually talk turned into how old she was, where she was from. It started out simple enough, with her fabricating a story of some elven kingdom to the east. Far across the sea. But as the drink went down her gullet, things started to become more truthful. Especially to her age.

“Well. You don't look a day over 2000." Brenda whistled. “Gotta tell me how you do it."

“Magic and lots of patience." She said flatly, getting crickets chirping through the air. It was Mira who burst out laughing, seizing up on August.

“We've been traveling for months. No, we didn't sleep in the rain, we fought a giant worm. Remorarz it was called. Was rather boring, spent most of the time reading books. Yes, I find him handsome and charming, why wouldn't I?" Everyone suddenly was agape before they burst out laughing and setting her cheeks aflame. She turned to Croesus, who was just opening and closing his beak, ears splayed. Possibly unsure of what to say.

“I find you fetching." He laughed, eyes closed and haunches wiggling.

She peered down at her truth drink. She'd said that aloud? “How many of these things have I had?"

“Not a sip of that one."

“Oh good."

“But that's your fourth one."

“What?" She touched her fuzzy head, well that would account for that. She turned from the gazing eyes of those gathered to Croesus. Who had his ears splayed, a tilt to his head. But those glassy eyes square on her. It was something they'd known right? He'd saved her after all, spent time with her. Cuddled with her in the cold nights, offered a caring wing on numerous occasions? Almost kissed back at the wizard's cottage. She composed herself with her next breath, though it was far past the time she could hide her cheeks.

“But the baby. We were talking about your mewing pups?"

“No. We were talking about how cute you were together." Mira's finger shot between the two. “Gryphon and Elf lady."

“Now, now, now." Croesus waved his talon, only inciting the woman to giggle ever further.

“He just wants to save those salacious bits to himself." Brenda laughed, casting a lewd eye between ossia and the gryphon. Who'd asked they were talking about that.

“Speaking of babies." Mira leaned back against August, batting her eyes.

“Maybe we talk about such enterprises. When we're not drunk off our bums?" He purred, stroking at her fair chin.

Thankfully for Ossai and her rapidly beating heart, the talk did change to the coming puppies and what they would be called. Something to distract the others from her momentary weakness. All but Croesus that was. He was still casting glances to her, loving glances she was sure. Not to mention he was getting closer and closer as the night progressed, eventually right up against her. Without thinking she leaned up against his warmer frame, wrapping an arm around it. He was so soft and warm. She rested her head soon upon it.

When the night began to die down and the others departed for sleep, the pair were offered to sleep beneath the stars. They were provided blankets of wool, bristling with colors that must have cost the girl a fortune. Then they were gone, and Ossai was left with Croesus, sitting beside one another with the thousands of stars looking down on them. Like a giant school of twinkling fish.

He wiggled his haunches, wing extending around her as they simply sighed and enjoyed the silence. No retort, no come back, no sly remarks. Just the sound of their breathing and steady heartbeats.

“I didn't want you to go you know." She said finally, scratching his fur.

“I know." He replied softly, wrapping a wing around her. She didn't even fight it. Was it the drink? “I didn't want to leave you either. Do.." He lowered his beak. “Really think I'm handsome and charming?"

“Possibly." She rested a hand on his beak, tracing the surface up to his eyes.

“Cause it's alright if you do."

She nodded, cupping his jaw. “Though my father would disapprove of such thoughts."

“What thoughts are those?" He rumbled, shifting his body so that he was curled around her. “Do tell."

“The ones that.." She sighed and scratched his chin, trying to keep her pride. “Long for you company. It's most welcome, more than that. I adore it."

“Well I find your company most enjoyable as well. Even if you're being foolish and stubborn."

“And you're here why?"

“To make sure that nothing happens to you." He rose a tender talon to her head, delicately ruffling her hair. “Be a shame if I don't get to meet the dragoness that has me so intrigued huh? When did this even happen?"

She peered into his yellow eyes, touching upon his very soul. The way he looked back brought little tremors to her heart. Flush skin only got redder as she lovingly caressed his face. No one had ever looked at her like this. So enchanting, honest, not hiding some dark plan beneath the surface. It made her, the daughter of the emperor feel weak for the first time in her life.

“After I leaped into save you? Is that a bit of a cliché?"

“Then you cared for me." She rubbed at the base of his ear, his cute rumbles almost making her giggle. Or was that the fuzziness of her head? “Among my kind, what you've done is unheard of. A dragon would have weighted the risks to their own life, and if they'd profit over my death."

“But I'm not a dragon." He chirped, his crown feathers twitching. “And that sounds terrible."

“It's how places with power are. I'm sure in your own things are quite similar. No one would have helped me. Or if they did it would have been for some favor. Some reward that I or my father would have granted them. But you." She cupped his chin, heart aching as she remembered the frightening cold, the thought everything might have been over on that night. “ Words failed her, but he seemed to understand her meaning.

“To be fair, I was growing rather fond of you as well. Interesting girl comes into my life, claims to be a dragon. Think she's a tad crazy but she sticks around. Figure I stick around and see if her fantastical story has some truth left to it. Possibly if that tail swings around."

She playfully smacked his beak. “How noble you act. Only to talk about a woman's tail.

“I didn't mean it like that." He quickly added, ears splaying as they locked eyes once again.

Is he nervous? His words came stammering as she watched the stars reflect within his darkened pools.

“What I mean to say. Is are you as stunning as you've made yourself to be?" They grew closer as his words lingered in the air. Then, with narry a thought of the consequences she kissed his beak. A soft rumble was his approval and her reward. She stroked his jaw as he scooched ever closer, wrapping her tight with a wing. Pressed up against his chest was heat like a winter's fire, and as safe as a protective wall. So, she massaged his ears as her heart melted, bringing his head down to nuzzle at her chest. All the while his soft warbles and trills were like music drifting to her ears.

Blame it on the drink or his uplifting affections, the once dragoness felt herself slowly drifting into this gryphon's chest. When he groped her rear she gasped but didn't scold him. It was forward and surprising, but she didn't spur him. Instead she found herself pulling him closer and enjoying the boldness. The softness. She was going to enjoy this night. He tenderly licked her neck, sending shivers down her spine.

He didn't know this was an intimate gesture among dragons, to leave yourself totally open to you're mates teeth. A sign of intense trust. Again, and again he subjected her to it, holding her softly within his sharpened talons. She played with his ears, made his eyes close, return the waves of pleasure he was subjecting her to. She gave voice to it with a moan, blushing and hiding it with her hand. He started to go slower as they both giggled, her trembling fingers running through his fur. She sighed in contentment, eyes fluttering.

Croesus fell back with her, claws holding her safe as her world swirled around in a fuzzy blur. From it came his shining yellow eyes, they locked onto hers. Passion swept over them both and tugged firm. Blood ran hot from within, a panting need mimicked in the gentle breath upon her cheek. No words were given but permission implied as she ground back against his muscular form.

With gentile claws he disrobed her, sighing as he set his talons upon her bare waist. He made note of her beauty, softly massaging her skin. It tickled at first, but the emotion conveyed with tiny electric pulses of pleasure.

“You look like an angel. Even without any wings."

His words only made her want for him grow. she returned such a kind gesture with a kiss, a stroke of his ear

“And how handsome you are as well." She smirked, “Even if you don't have any scales. But I'd not go too far." She cupped his chin, groaning as he stirred their lust with his continued groping of her rear. Both knew he had to be careful. He was a gryphon, she an elf. This body was not made for a male of this size. Patience would be their ally, and the passion would help them along.

She welcomed him with a pleasured moan, one he joined in with a hiss of unbridled bliss. He cooed when they sat, waiting for their bodies to adjust. Lost within each other's gaze, the tender beatings of their hearts pulsating within each other's core. With a few dozen kisses and loving chirps they began their intimate rhythm. His adventure seemingly to the core of her being. Painting, moaning as she slowly rocked against him. For a being of such strength he showed so much care, once she was adjusted that was. He steadily met her with lustful groans, his talons nicking her, but the pain was swiftly forgotten on waves of building delight.

The air filled with their lustful scent, trying to not let their passion bring too much noise. Her skin was trembling with fire. Words hardly came but little groans of weakened bliss. Her back arched as their pleasure rose like a boiling pot, his voice joined hers, no longer trying to hide. His ears splayed, the resistance crumbled, and the gryphon pulled her a tad more forcefully. Not enough to hurt, but enough to push the threshold. Warmth shot deep within, her body shook and convulsed as he held firm. And Croesus screeched upon the night wind.

Down the slumped with one another, she upon his chest with his tender claws still holding her steady. The beat of their hearts punctuated by the pulses of their afterglow. She kissed upon his face, he licked hers as they continued to ride out the tiny tremors. He nuzzled her, she kissed him back.

“Thanks for that." He gasped, pulling her closer as the night wind dragged icy fingers down her exposed back. “You're incredible…I hadn't…"

“Same." She finished, brushing below his eye. “Think nothing of it loyal gryphon." She mumbled, resting arms through his feathery neck. His limbs locked her against his underside, gently flopping to the side. She was trapped within a fur and feathery prison, but she didn't care. So, what of her father and tradition, so what he was a lesser creature. She had him, and all that mattered was this moment. With a nuzzle of his chest she began to drift, cradled lovingly within the gryphon's forelimbs.

* * * * * * * * * *

Ossai woke from her pleasing dreams, trading one realm of warmth and fluttering hearts for another. She found herself held lovingly to Croesus' underside, his fur pressed to her naked form. Though the air away from him was cool, he proved to be a bulwark against it. Confusion only found her for but a moment, grasping for recollection of the previous night. There had been drinks, songs, certain there was a prancing that resembled dragon's dancing from the sky. All one big pleasing blur of sensations that had her relaxing in his grasp.

The morning light had just filtered in through the dew glistening leaves, splattering both she and him with light. They'd slept outside, a chill hovering just beyond the comforting shelter of his fur and wings. How long had it been that'd she cuddled like this? Not simple held by another but affectionately protected? Shielded? So comfortable to not worry about being slain by talon or taken advantage of?

His ears flicked casually as he snored, making a smile spring to her lips. Fitting she have one pleasing night, only to awaken to the steady rhythm of his heart. The soft song of a family of birds filled the morning air, she could already tell. Today was going to be a good day. Today was the day she would get her body back.The countless years and months finally put to rest.

Wiggling at the thought she sighed, enjoying what moments she could still have from her feathery prison. Maybe she'd retain this form just to engage in these brief cuddles sessions. Never admit it to anyone else. No need for those other than herself and him know she enjoyed such things. She had an image to maintain. But she could relax here, unjudged and at ease. It wasn't like she could get the plan in motion. That was the Brenda woman's job.

“Someones rather happy." Croesus woke, one eye softly fixating on her. It glistened with the morning light like an enchanted sea of warmth.

“Todays the day." She replied, wrapping limbs around his and holding him close. “You very well know that."

“I suppose it is. Nice to see this honied glow about you. That golden flow about your cheeks." He curled closer, a clever smirk upon his beak. “You did say you were green right? Not a red trying to wiggle free of your scales?"

“No." She tapped his forepaw, not minding as he held her closer. A single thump of his tail rippled through her. She could rest here all day if she wasn't so busy. If destiny didn't have a siren's song. “Just enjoying the comforting embrace of a most loyal servant."

“Only a servant now?" He chirped with a sigh. “Didn't think the divine lowered themselves to fraternize with us mere servants. Especially not what happened…"

She opened and closed her mouth as he wiggled with her, chuckling as her cheeks grew warm. “We'll…you're a different sort, aren't you? Consider yourself above that of your other kin."

“Hmmmm. Does that mean you're making excuses for what we did?" He casually flicked his ears, eyes innocently minding a pair of songbirds that flew overhead. When she didn't reply he gestured to her naked form.

She blushed harder, heart fluttering most delightfully in her chest as their escapades came to the forefront of her mind. They'd enjoyed a carnal pleasure had they not? She was about to deny it, but held her tongue. No sense in ruining what mood was set due to draconic pride. Instead she wiggled into his chest, pulling his forelimbs tighter under her chest. “It was most pleasurable wasn't it. You did well."

“Did you mean everything you said?" His eyes pulled her in when he looked down. “About not wanting me to leave?"

She shifted with his grasp hands drifting to his feathery head, guided as if by a string. Caressing his face, she gave a pleased sigh. She wasn't going to deny him this. “That can be discussed later. It was most..Delightful. You were most delicate."

“Well, what else you expect. Look at the size of you? Not very pleasure like to break you is it?" He chuckled. “You're not the first humanoid to ride this gryphon."

Her nose wrinkled. “That's not a way to enchant a dragon's heart."

“Enchanting it now are I?"

She blushed, he laughed. “Hardly." Her cheeks flushed and he gave her a knowing look. She knew he wasn't fooled.

“You're but a rock to be treasured."

“A rock?" She chuckled, “Why on earth a rock? Because it's hard? Is that a gryphon saying?"

“Partially. I thought rock since you were a dragon…gizzard.." He yawned wide, voice turning into a pleased coo. “You're ruining it by over thinking."

“And we're not lizards you oversized cat." She freed herself, shivering as the morning air hugged her with chilled arms. “Curse your body." She sought out her clothes that were half hazardly tossed over a chair. “How warm it is." She peered back to see that he'd spread his limbs, wagging a talon at her invitingly. Even his wing ruffled.

“Care to return then my Emerald Lady? Always a place for you nestled within."

“A tantalizing offer to be sure. Especially with how wicked the air is being." She hissed, slipping on her tunic and trousers.

“You make one enchanting elf." He clicked his tongue, eyeing her up and down. “Any chance of a repeating last nights festivities?"

Males. She waved him off, though not hiding her blush. “How about I think about it. After I return to full form. Course then it will be you held within my grasp."

“Now isn't that a fine prospect." He yawned again, flipping to his belly and stretching his wing's wide. “Then I won't have to carry you around anymore." He pounced up, a bounce in his paws as he trotted around the clearing. He shook his neck several time, filling the air with a pleased chirp.

“Well. Someone is happy. Almost as much as I." She smirked, slipping on her boots.

“Amazing what a night with a lovely lady can do. The bounce in your paws it can bring." He leaped several yards, giving a satisfying groan. “Not to mention I finally get to see what you actually look like."

“Does it matter?"

“Well not exactly." He purred, sliding to her side. His crowns had already begun to extend above his head. “But I'm picturing your tail goes on forever. That when you spread your wings even the birds grow quiet at your splendor. Maybe a choir will pick up in your honor? Fill the air with such a pleasing song that all will weep in your majesty. Such is the way with divine beings no?"

She eyed him as he chuckled. “And just like that you ruined it." She tossed her vest into his face; he threw it to the ground with a snap of his beak. His voice laughing.

“Lucky I didn't rip it. Then you'd have no shirt to cover yourself with."

“Certain Brenda would have an extra, not to mention the tongue lashing she'd give you. Maybe a swift kick with a boot."

“That's hardly a thing to say to the gryphon that acted as such a lovely bed." He hobbled over, returning her vest with a chirp.

She thanked him, slipping her arms inside. “Well aren't you so caring. Try to keep the whole act together when I get off these wretched runes." She scowled at them, kneeling before a nearby pond of water. How she'd missed it last night she'd never know. It had been dark after all, and better things on her mind. She spied a lazy goldfish casually swimming by. In her hands went, cupping a handful of water to splash against her face. Water dripped from her cheeks, rippling the water below. She was left staring at her elven face. The tired looking eyes of so much time wasted. Lines across her features from unknown deeds.

“Not much longer do I have to gaze upon this flesh."

“Not that bad though." Croesus slide next to her, dipping his beak to drink. He chuckled when the fish scattered in all directions. Even snapping at them with his beak. “You could be stuck as something far stranger or grotesque." He snapped with a clack, beak dripping clear rivers .“Instead you got stuck in that."

She bid his beak a farewell pat before he went about attaching his armor pieces. She'd helped with the thicker pads of clothing, though caressing his chest softly before she did so. Their eyes met, he chirped, she blushed, and she pressed it to his fur.

“Take it you'll not help me when you return?" He fastened the last buckle with a smirk, “Too good to help?"

“You think you're coming with me?" She smirked back, playfully walking away. “What has been rattling between your ears?"

“Oh, was I not?" He tilted his head, following. “A possibility I suppose. Never know with me. I find the idea of seeing the rest of this world with a dragoness is right under my wings."

“Your wings were telling you that?" She grabbed softly at his joints, kneading them in a way that had pleased chirps flow like water from his beak. “Half bird indeed. I'd argue 75% though, with how easily it is to do that."

“We'll see how you feel when your wings are rubbed." He snapped, tail soon bombarding her with playful smacks.

She chased after him, smacking his hind end. “And we'll see how you like being assaulted by my tail!"

He simply stopped, turned his beak around and smirked. “And now who's obsessed with tails darling?" He gave her a wink, his crowns fluttering. The confidence he had, the determination. A tenderness close to bursting. Yeah, she could get used to that.

“I'll consider bringing you along little gryphon."

They both laughed in tandem as they strolled across the yard, back towards the cottage with his friends. The air was alive with roasted eggs, sizzingly bacon, and the enchanting scent of maple.

“Oh, that's a good sign to start the day. If Bitch is making what I think she is. Wait till you try it lady. How it makes dogs sing, humans blush, and gryphons trill their enjoyment."

“That'll remain to be seen." She leaned up to him, the idea of him happily singing as he devowered a meal was humorous to be sure. Though the biggest laugh would be seeing him squeeze his rear end through the doorframe.

She gave him a parting hug, opening the door soon after. The small cottage's air was thick with those smells from before, enchantingly so. Bitch was over a cooking block in the fireplace. Furniture clung to every corner, covered in candles, tools for various tasks hanging from the walls. There was a simple table with two chairs, and a vase with flowers stuck within them. But as she entered with the question, Brenda came in with an orange robed man at her side.

No weapons were drawn, and the woman looked rather calm. All eyes sharply focused on her in the drop of a hat. The man's eyes widened, his lips curled into a sneer, and his hand flew up into a cupped shape.

“Magister!" Ossai shouted, spinning on her heals and racing towards Croesus' protective wings. They flew out to shield her from whatever spell was coming from the human's lips. Dirt flung beneath foot and talons as they tried to bolt, but the spell caught part of her. Her leg froze mid stride, carrying her face first into the dirt.

“Get the girl!" The man shouted with a growly tone, as a group of warriors adorned in purples and oranges emerged from around the cottage, brandishing various spears and swords.

“Lady!" Croesus leapt to her, grabbing her in his talons. She minded not as he accidently nicked her flesh.

“Nets!" someone shouted as he reared up.

But they were too fast. Gryphon's wings opened, he pounced to the air, and they shot towards the blue, cloud dotted sky above. They'd never be able to follow there. Croesus got two powerful beats of his wings before a spectral hand of yellow energy smacked them down like an irritating fly.

His limbs wound tightly around her as the gryphon struggled to reorient himself, the ground racing to greet them. They slammed with a shattered cry. Her teeth gritting as they came to a stop.

Dust started to settle as he was left panting. Their enemies not standing idle. They flourished their weapons and advanced with malicious intent.

Up she sprang, finally shaking off the paralysis of that spell. They couldn't stay here. Croesus seemed to agree, wincing and joining at her side. “So many to catch a gryphon. I'm somewhat flattered." He chuckled, as the dozen or so humans advanced on them with wicked grins.

They made the first move, stabbing forward with pointed spears, the haft getting snapped by the gryphon's beak. Before he could escape, Croesus was upon him, tearing out the young man's throat in a shower of red.

Ossai would have grabbed the discarded weapon but it was not to be. Quick as a charging cobra the yellow hand that'd struck them from the sky descended to grasp her with iron like fingers. She cried as its giant like strength squeezed the air from her lungs. Though she squirmed as it lifted her, it proved too strong as it carried her to its master.

“Hey!" Croesus shouted, ears perking up as he kicked one man into his friends with a jingling chain. “Don't touch the ladies if they don't want. That's rather un gentlemen like!" He chased after her, knocking several humans down, brutally slashing one poor soul across the face.

“You could have left this place."The robed man emerged from the cottage, holding up his arm as the hand returned to him. He flung back his braided hair, a pleased smile on his weathered lips.

“If I wasn't stuck mortal. You'd regret this." She hissed, narrowing her eyes.

“Good thing you are then my dear." He averted his gaze as three more of the guards cried out in pain. “Can you not handle one gryphon? This is the performance you provide?"

Croesus had leaped up, heavily planting his hinds onto one poor soul's chest. Crushing the man beneath his bulk, and dispatching another with a flash of his talons. Though one attacker succeeded by landing a glancing stab through the gryphon's gambeson.

Though that victory was short lived. Croesus screeched and snatched that man and slammed him to the ground, ending his life with a flash of his beak.

“Don't flatter me!" Croesus roared, leaping back to avoid an off balanced lunge. Three men advanced on him over the blood and trampled bodies of their brethren. “Only a couple people can handle me. You're only showing how terrible you are. How embarrassing this must be for you." Croesus plucked up a discarded shield, hurling it at one poor man like a discus. It struck the man square in the chest, sending the poor fellow flying back several feet onto his back. “And you paid them?" He barked. “Clearly they swindled you."

“I'm going to have to handle this myself, aren't I?" The magister growled, heaving his shoulders with a sigh. “Just like everything else."

Ossai slipped her arm free of the spectral hand, finding purchase on the hilt of her dagger. He was to busy now prepping another spell, hands swirling about the air as he crumbled dirt in the other. Good, his arrogance will be his undoing.

With a pounding heart she drew her blade with a wicked hiss, cutting the man across his unguarded back. His clothes parted, he screamed and fell prone to the blood painted ground. The hand holding her vanished, dropping her ungraciously to the ground. Though her body lit up with pain she smirked as she rose, musing to herself as Croesus finished yet another thug off. The man's gurgled cry an almost sweet song, but the cries of his reinforcements round the cottage were not.

We have to leave. She kicked the groaning magister with a hardened gaze. Vengeance could be returned another day. She turned to her blood speckled gryphon, a worrying look exchanged between them as she noted not all of it was their enemies.

A crossbow twanged from behind her, bolt soaring past to pierce into Croesus' side. The gryphon stumbled backwards in a haze as Ossai's foot snagged something in the grass. Momentum carried her over, once more blessing her to the ground. She tried to recover but found a heavy boot pressed to her back, a blade swiftly kissing her neck.

“Honestly. Couldn't have done this without me eh?" Brenda's voice was calm as a storm, yet burning Ossai from within. Wasn't she supposed to be helping them?

“Brenda?" Croesus stumbled away from a brutish man in plate mail, his greatsword keeping the gryphon at bay. A weighted net was tossed onto him, another arrow pierced his haunches.

“Don't kill him!" The magister sneered, tossing aside an empty potion bottle, a thin strand of red liquid still inside. “He doesn't get off that easy!" He slashed his hand, slamming Croesus to the ground with another summoning of his spectral hand. “He gets to be made an example of. After we find out what he knows."

With a cracking voice Ossia tried to call his name. His pained screeches driving icles into her heart.

She squirmed, grasping at the grass as Brenda pushed harder against her back.

“Oh stop your fussin lady. Only going to bruise yourself."

“How could you?" Her teeth snarled. “You were his friend!"

“Business is business." The woman kicked down, knocking the wind from Ossai's lungs. “Even when an old friends are involved." With a thwack of a sword hilt, Croesus was silenced, his body falling limp against the ground.

Struggling for breath she gasped out his name, only for the brutish looking man to stride over. Blood still dripping down his grizzled face, he scowled at her, she sneered at him, and he bashed her head with the hilt of his sword.

* * * * * * * * *

Fuzzy images flashed before Ossai's fluttering eyes. The world nothing more but fleeting glimpses between bouts of unconsciousness. The near crystal-clear sky of vibrant blue, the viridian trees that pressed in on them from all sides and the fractured whispers of her captors. Thoughts of hers where slim, base line questions concerned with where they were going, and what would become of her. All others slipped from her grasp, drained away with each heavy footstep.

When blackness took her her father sat waiting atop a mountain of skulls. His golden tail thumping as his distain lit the very area around him. Here would end his once treasured daughter. Her quest reignited dwindling and petering out before it had ended. A swift clang of a metal pot put an end to those golden eyes.

“Twas easy. Maybe we should get more money eh?" A loud, gravely voice laughed.

“Wha-?" She shook her head as her dream faded away and colors exploded from the darkness. She was laid flat on the ground, her arms splayed out on either side. Thick grass scratched at her cheek as the air filled with the buzzing of beatles. She took a deep breath, groaning at the thick smell of humans and horses.

“What happened? “She shifted, finding her neck encased in a metal collar and bound to a spike planted in the ground by angry steel chains.

Collar? What happened?

Inquisitive fingers tentatively traced the smooth surface. Recent events came flooding back to her with ever beat of her rapid pulse of her heart. She was outside, chained up in a courtyard with a towering keep of weathered stone staring menacingly down at her. Wooden buildings with thatch roofs were pressed to the sides of the stone walls, each one as menacing as the numerous humans going about their routines.

Men and woman stared as they passed, adorned in gambesons and chainmail. Oranges and purple were strewn about their dress, almost like flowers in a field of dirt. They would flinch or caress the hilts of their weapons, almost suspecting she would leap up at a moment's notice. Ossai trembled, her only respite granted when she found that she wasn't the only one chained up.

Croesus was beside her, a blackened chain around his neck and connected to the same spike as she. He was sitting on his haunches, holding his chest with one of his claws. Vigilant eyes watching their captors stroll about the area. Ossai's eyes lingered on the blood dried and smeared upon his feathers, tracing an icy blade over her heart. As he shifted and thumped his tail she caught numerous wounds that had been stitched up nice and tight. He looked more like a patchwork quilt than a gryphon. She gulped down the worry in her throat, sitting up with a groan.

“Where are we?" She hissed, staring up to the carved stone of the keep. Admiring bastille that adorned the top, their mellitic points glinting in the sunlight. She glared at them. One good shot from those could punch a hole in a dragon's scales. Possibly even kill them if the humans got lucky.

“We're nestled deep in their base of operations. Smack dab where you wanted. This place sits overlooking the town of Goldcrest." Croesus replied, tugging on his chain and giving a soft chirp. “Invitation could use some work. Much too forceful."

Brenda.

Ossai clenched her fist, her blood starting to burn.

Damn that woman. One evening. One evening I let down my guard. And this is what happened.

She ran her hands along the collar, finding a slot for a key. “I hope that friend of yours keeps Hades company."

“Hey." He fluffed up his feathers. “I wanted to leave. This right here? This is your doing."

“You could have stopped me harder." She snapped back, “Is there a way your smart beak of yours can pick a lock?"

He wiggled his talons at her. “Talons too big for it."

“There has to be a trick or something." She groaned, tugging at the chain. “Some way for us to escape. It just can't end here. Not betrayed by that human bitch." She yanked again, but still it didn't budge. She only got sore hands for her trouble.

“Just relax. No way out of what's coming. Least until they get what they want."

“Utterly useless." She started looking around at the passing guards. Surely one of them had the key for their chains? They just needed to lift it off when they got close. “Why did I even ask for your help anyway?"

“That would be your mistake. Could have done it on your own. Course…less fashionably." Croesus chirped, head swiveling as a cold breeze washed over them.

“How can you be this calm and collected? Your friend betrayed us to the magisters! Now where chained up and waiting our imminent deaths!"

He clacked his beak in protest. “Yes. I am equipped with eyes. I'm not that blind." He glared at a few of the passing guard. “And I'm seething. Rest assured that woman and I will have…words." His head snapped to the heavy thump of an executioner's axe into a nearby pile of cutting wood. “Course, that's if we get the chance to have words." His ears splayed, his hinds fidgeting in the grass. “Never trust anyone. I knew better than this. Figure a pretty face makes me stupid."

“I don't think it takes just the pretty face." She peered all over his fur, looking for his pouches. Anything they could use. If not his talons, maybe he had something else. “Do you have a pin or something hidden in your fur?,I'm not dying here cause your poor taste in friends."

“Does it look like I do? Maybe hide a pin up my tail? Wasn't countin on friends selling us out."

“Okay." She snapped, thrusting a finger to his beak and glaring into his eyes. “You may have given up, but I haven't. So, snap of it gryphon. Maybe we make a mock injury and leap at the guards when they come talk to us. Something, anything better than waiting for our deaths."

“Yea me fight." He lifted one of his wings, revealing the numerous dull red stitches across his frame. Again, the ice dagger returned, and gave her growing ire pause. He was in clearly no condition to fight. “Did a number on my poor fur and feathers. Guess folks don't take kindly to slashing up a dozen of their friends." He winced, pinning his wing down. “Good job stitching me though. I'd kill to see the look on that man's face."

Her thoughts for herself drifted away to the wind. Without thinking she tenderly placed a hand to his shoulder, heart aching as he flinched. “Least they didn't kill you." Her voice was soft.

“Oh, they definitely tried." The bird chuckled weakly, trying to shoo her away with his neck. “So, if we get into a scrap its all on you. Just be sure to do all I taught you."

Her brow rose, “But you didn't-“

“Dark humor lady." He weakly smiled, “Hope the afterlife is all it's cracked up to be."

She slumped and leaned against him, her plans drifting further from her grasp with each passing breath. She was not strong enough to break free. Even if they did, she doubted Croesus could fly out of here. She'd have to leave him behind if there was any chance of her escape. But how could she just leave him here after their journey? She had to run a hand along his feathers to avoid shaking.

“If you can get out of here. Best just run for the hills. Don't go looking back for me."

She massaged his face and neck, pressing his face to her chest.

“Least we're together before we die."

“Not me though." She whispered softly, trying to not shiver round his neck. “I'm to be stripped away. Its utterly rubbish is what it is."

“Well…Can you grant a dying gryphon one last request?" His ears slowly splayed.

“What is that?"

“Your name."

“No one gets my name." She replied swiftly, massing one of his ears.

He looked taken back, gasping and narrowing his eyes. “Really? Even on the brink of death you're going to hold onto it?"

“It's a most sacred thing. If I handed out when we thought, we were going to die that would happen a lot."

“Well screw dying then." He composed himself, puffing out his chest. “We're too pretty to die anyway. Sides, if I want to know your name I gotta live."

“Where was this enthusiasm minutes ago?"

“I thought I'd get your name!" He slowly scanned the keep with his beak. “Just give me an hour or two. Just you wait."

“Alright you two. Stop your gabbing."The scratched up face of the knight from before came into view. He had a fresh scar running across his face, one final gift from Croesus. He was dragging a large black horse by it's leather reins.

“Well if isn't Rr handsome." Croesus smiled. “How's it going?"

The man's eyes narrowed. “Well enough. Now shut your beak. The inquisitor won't have time for your drivel."

“That so?" The gryphon weakly chuckled. “Tell them to take their time. We're doing quite fine here. Nice breeze, the grass is nice. Was enjoying a lovely back and forth until you walked by." His ears perked up as he tilted his head to the side. “Did you bring me a snack?" He eyed the horse, licking his beak with a long swipe of his tongue. “You know gryphons love horses."

“He's correct you know human." Ossai joined in, enjoying the utter fury dwelling in this man's eyes. The red growing in his cheeks. She was expecting them to suddenly sprout steam.

“You can tell her that yourself." His knuckles turned white as he clenched tight the reins. “I will enjoy the knowledge you'll be screaming."

“I doubt your inquisitor can get a little peep." The gryphon smirked.

Soon as the words left his mouth did a group of soldiers join them. They'd marched from the keep, chests swollen with purpose. Guards surrounded a lithe woman, with pencil thin lips and devilish green eyes. She was adorned in the typical orange and purple robes, but had an opening to show her gambeson and numerous leather pouches. Her coal like hair was held up in a bun, and she looked as though she'd permanently smelled a foul odor.

“As I was saying." Croesus smiled, eyes quickly darting from swords holstered in sheaths. “What a wonderful and well thought out woman. Would be the light of anyone's life. My friend and I were simply traveling through. Smugglers by trade. This is all a giant misunderstanding."

The woman simple crossed her arms, narrowing in disgust. She snapped to Ossai and then back to the gryphon, holding her arm up to silence the whispering of her gathered soldiers. “You think we'd fall for that trick? I'm surprised at you."

“Shouldn't be that surprised actually." Croesus scratched at his chin nonchalantly, “It's worked dozens of other times. Honestly shocked." He tilted his head to the side, a curious chirp leaving him. “Did you read Houmac Stonebreakers scroll on interrogation? If so I think you need to grow a beard. You look nothing like a dwarf."

“What is it you want human?" Ossai was quick to but in, before they decided to execute them right there and then. “My friend has been roughed up by your fellows and is most irate."

“Irate is a way of delicately putting it lady." The gryphon stomped a talon. “I'm downright seething. All the way to by tail feathers." He wiggled his tail feathers. “And they don't take too kindly to this sort of treatment. Not even an ale-“

“Exactly my point." She held out her palms. To which the woman simple scowled harder.

“I'm glad you don't have the crass tongue of your friend. Much more civilized you seem to be." The woman straightened her back. “I'm Orsola Sav. And you are." She rolled her hand.

“The Emerald Lady."

“A title. How interesting. They told me you could talk. I had my skepticisms of course." She clicked her tongue, strolling around to admire every inch of her. Like she was a prized pig. “Quite fascinating in person." Satisfied with her look around, Orsola barked orders to the men to separate the pair. “We'll question them both. Then carry out their sentences."

None of the men moved. Ossai couldn't help but snicker, Croesus just grinned to himself. When she barked again, they just squirmed, fidgeting in place.

“Did you hear what he did to the others?" One asked, voice cracking like a puberty stricken teen.

Orsola sighed heavily and placed her palm to her face. “You're afraid of the bloody gryphon? Look at him!" She pointed out his numerous stitching. “We turned him into a fucking pin cushion. His bones to brittle candy. Grow a gods damned spine men. Or some balls! Are you a man or a child?"

“I don't know." Ossai, gave Croesus a sly smile. “I saw him kill at least a dozen soldiers with his mere beak. Didn't even have to hit that hard with it." The men simply stared at Croesus' beak and whimpered. When he clacked it they all backed away with a startled cry.

“See the elf knows! We need even more!".

Orsola just cursed, gnashing her teeth before shouting out for more soldiers.

Least they were having fun before they were to be slain.

After their reinforcements of at least a dozen soldiers the gathered men did advance on them. Even still their eyes were hesitant, hands practically trembling like scared children. These where who they were afraid of? Ossai watched with a sliver of amusement. Then again, Croesus did slay a lot of them. If only they had seen her in her true form. They'd really have something to dread.

“I'm almost flattered." Croesus laughed as dozens of hands where upon him, “Did they all teach you to be cowardly gits?"

“If he so much as moves wrong, stab him like a bloody fish." Orsola sneered as four guards roughly grabbed Ossai, undid her chain and tore her away from the gryphon.

Longfull looks were exchanged by she and Croesus. Her heart painfully stabbed at her chest, whispering that this could possibly be the last look she got. Time froze for but a moment as their souls called desperately out for one another.

“Don't you go dying!" She ordered back to him like a commanding general, fighting a tad at the guard's rough hands upon her shoulder. “Cause I'm not putting up with you haunting me."

“Who says I'll haunt you?" He rolled his eyes to Orsola with an angry chirp." I'll be nagging at that bitch of all people."

“Move!" The Orsola demanded, cracking a whip she procured from her belt. Ossai found the strength of her captor's increase. In fear of her or some magical effect she didn't know. Though some of the more braver guards cursed under their breaths.

“Now Emerald Lady." Orsola slid a cruel hand around Ossai's shoulder, guiding her towards the keep. Her teeth were on full display, menacing white in the sun's light. “You're going to tell us all how a bonded can talk. Don't leave out a single solitary detail."

Ossai was led into the towering keep. The windows making it more like an imposing monster ready to gobble her up. Musty air flooded her senses as they passed through cracked door, hanging thick in the air like an unwelcome fog. Through the tight stone corridors, they dragged her, their heavy boots resounding off the walls. Candles and unlit torches lined the smooth and polished stone, almost like markers to their destination. One set of thick steps heading down further into the bowels of this place.

The air grew colder when the hit the steps, wrapping around Ossai like an uncomfortable blanket. She shivered as they reached the bottom, her eyes finding bared cells of dark iron. Dried fluids were smeared all over the floor. Blood if she had any guess. No doubt in her mind what happened to the previous occupants of this place. Old tales of misery no doubt. She was practically thrown into a closed room, then shackled with ice like manacles to an uncomfortable and weathered chair. It didn't even have a cushion. Her captors fanned out to light the candles sprinkled around the room. Orsola took a seat opposite of her at a thick oak table covered in books and glittering trinkets. Breaking the unnerving silence with her voice. Which now was sweet as a bee's honey.

“You're quite the anomaly." Orsola grinned as the guards took statuesque poses behind her.

“You break free and kill poor Yorrick and those buffoons her hired. How that happens still a damned mystery." She drummed her fingers over the table, “Now what was it? Crack in the creation room? The runes growing weaker? Or maybe…Whatever was in that temple…" The woman fiddled beneath the desk, pulling out a black iron poker. Before Ossai could get a word in, Orsola was prodding at her bare skin. “Was that it?"

She almost growled as the woman continued to list off at least a thousand different ideas on what could have possessed her to head north with what she described as a “fool" of a gryphon. “Nothing more than a mercenary. Did he tell you that? Did he cast a spell on you? Undo the years of conditioning?" The woman set down the poker, pulling free a teal feathered quill to rest at her lips. She began tapping impatiently.

“Are you fini-“ The woman interrupted her yet again. Evidently not.

“I can see what leniency can be done for you."

“And what leniency can that be?" She snapped. Her hands shaking in irritation. “When I am to rebounded? Wiped away."

The woman chuckled with a grin. “That outcome could be changed. I'm sure we'd love to know how a bonded broke free. Ensure that it never happens again." She sighed, eyes looking Ossai up and down. “Such a bad look when our magical weapons break free. You understand naturally."

“Excuse me if I'm not as invested on the topic." Her eyes hardened. If she got her way. She'd make certain it never happened again. Course she would wager both of them had far different ways to accomplish that. She'd use her claws and magic, destroy whatever was doing this. After she'd learned how they'd done it of course. She took a calming breath. She better get to work. “But I can tell you how I did it."

Like an eager child, Orsola leaned to the front of her seat. Her eyes shone with such interest Ossai thought she might start bursting with the questions again. With baited breath the woman tapped her quill, pulling free a journal from a hastily opened drawer.

“Well do go on. I am all ears Miss Lady."

She cleared her throat, straightening her back and giving the magister a withering glance. “I am a dragoness. Your people would know me as The Emerald Lady. Your magic has me stuck in this mortal shell. Your fool Yorrick stumbled upon my prison. My guardians promptly slew him and his retinue. I've been searching for a way to remove these troublesome runes ever since."

“And….the bonded?" The lady looked taken back, eyes growing wide. “What happened to her?"

“Disappeared into my being. Course, there wasn't much to weed out. Your magisters had taken care of that."

“So the spells didn't wear off…They…"

“Encountered a being more powerful." She growled, managing to sharpen her eyes to that of a sword.

“Wow." Her hands dropped, wiping her brow. “A dragoness? Not everyday you hear that excuse." She scribbled something next onto her paper. “And you're stuck…Can't polymorph or anything?"

“Quite."

“That sounds rather thrilling!"

“It is one of the most teeth grinding experiences of my life." Could she somehow turn this woman's interest into something more? She was appearing less and less threatening and more fascinated and intrigued. “If you were to remove these bondings. I would be in your debt…I could offer you…" What did mortals like? Money, magic, power? “Favors."

“Like more dragon ruins?" Orsola shot up, a smile from ear to ear. “They are quite the fascination for our organization! Magisters might like getting even more power at the behest of their pet dragon!"

What? If she could have lit the air flame with her eyes she'd have done so. “I'd not be one's pet girl. You'd find yourself in ill company if you referred to me as such."

The woman waved her off like an ill meaning drunkard, then asked about her trip north. Who else knew of her current form, her allies. Anything else they could use to track people down.

“There is no one else." She said flatly, tugging at a shackle. Even if she didn't like Warrick, she wasn't going to be sending a swarm of mages down his neck. “Are these really necessary? You have your armed guards." She gestured behind her with a sneer. “Unless they cannot manage a powerless girl in their charge."

“Yes." The woman stated with a smile. “Can't have you beating the tar out of them can we?"

“Hey!" One guard shifted in place. “What makes you think I'd let that happen?"

The second guard gave him a knowing look, making a crack of a whip like motion.

“Besides that, you tit!" He growled, getting silenced by the woman's bark.

“Silence your wagging tongues. Point is, its for precautions. Even if you're agreeable. Know how many times that excuse has been used and then my men get ambushed?"

“Far too often?" Ossai grumbled, tugging uselessly at her chains.

“Three. The last one was a bloody halfling that my men were convinced into having second breakfast with."

“But it was good!"

With but a look of utter contempt the guard shut his trap, a heavy gulp radiating through the room.

As the woman laid the guards out in a cross fashion, Ossai beamed internally. She just had to find the right path and she was set. That was certain. “So, let me get this straight human. For more ruins of my people you will assist in helping me get rid of these runes?"

“Depends on how valuable they are."

“Without me they'd be lost to time." She grinned, meeting the woman's gaze. “Maybe another faction will find them? Upsur you and your colleges. What you and the rest are doing." She beamed from ear to ear. “Never ends well for the loser."

“Speak dragon."

She wagged a finger as the woman eyed her. Her jovial attitude suddenly growing dimmer. She'd lost the upper hand in the trade. “Not until the runes are removed. I'd not tell you my ideas then be cursed to be swept away. I'm not one of the braindead wretches that you employ."

The woman's pen quickened, practically a blur. Ossai sat in amusement. How easy it was to sway a mortal with trinkets and promises. When asked about her predicament she explained the orb, dragons, and who exactly her father way. “The emperor of dragons. Son of Bahamut."

“I can't believe it." The woman gasped, letting her quill fall to the table.

“Quite the honor for you. Meeting the child of a god."

“No not that." The lady's eyes were still wider than dinner plates. “I'll be responsible for this discovery. You'll singlehandedly help my rise through the ranks. Maybe even have a section of land…Scratch that." Her face beamed. “I'll have a whole countryside for myself!"

“That's the spirit. Take hold of what should be yours."

Her shackles were undone with a casual flick of her interrogator's wrists. Ossai rubbed at them, telling the rambling woman that she made the right choice.

“We will get better quarters for you Emerald lady. Will apologize for any mishandling of you on our part."

“Of course. All will be forgiven. When these infernal runes are removed." She chuckled with the woman as they stood, the guard too joining them in their good cheer. “But." Ossai coughed, composing herself. “The gryphon."

“Yes?"

“The creature with wings, looks like a cross between a cat and a bird. I will be needing him."

“Lady." The woman's smile ended abruptly, “He was to be executed after his interrogation. I could send word but even now it might be too late."

Silence swept about her, bringing a freezing chill to her blood. The loyal gryphon that'd helped her so much. He appeared before her eyes, perks ears and beak parted smile. Her heart stretching within her chest. “Then sent word!" She shouted, her voice cracked. Even the woman understood and snapped to a guard, relaying Ossai's order.

“Right away!" The guard sprinted out, his chain rattling off the walls. “Send word! The prisoner brought information!" He called out loudly. “Halt the execution! Halt the execution!"

Together Ossai and the interrogator followed the heavy thump of the guard's boots. The poor woman's face a sea of unending worry as Ossai berated her for Croesus' fate. More to hide the terrible fear coiling in her gut.

“If a single hair on his head is harmed further then there will be hell to pay. I'll ensure you never get that promotion you want."

“I'd be worried what orders you'd think they'd follow. If he gets sick of you." She snapped back.

“Then it will be his loss." She countered. Croesus' ghostly whimper in her ear. “Can't we reach them faster? You don't have an easier time to communicate? Stick your head out the window and use the cantrip message to send a message?" The woman's shake of her head was rather annoying. Who didn't learn a spell that allowed you to send and receive a whispered message from a hundred feet?

Surrounded by idiotic mages.

They reached the stairs, the sweet smell of the earth and grass never more appealing. Though the interrogator never got to enjoy it. They reached the top of the stair and the dull haft of an axe crashed squarely in her face.

“Night night orange blood." A tall man, muscular man smirked, sweeping his shoulder length hair with a swish of his head and shouldering his axe against his mail covered shoulder.

“It's day time Carl." Said another man beside him. Practically a duplicate to the first save that his hair was unkept and unclean and mixed with little beads and string. Both nearly filled the entire hallway with their bulk. “We talked about this."

“No we didn't." Growled Carl, narrowing his eyes at his twin. “It's an expression." He banged a mauled fist against his friend's mail clad chest. “Sides..She doesn't care do ya love?"

“Who….the hell are you?" Ossai gasped, staring in disbelief as the interrogator slumped to the floor. She eyed their weapons as they just chuckled and shoved against one another.

“Bonified heroes!" The second muscled man beamed, his crooked nose bouncing as he laughed. “Should see the look on your face. Bet you weren't expecting us!"

Fury flared to life within her. She had this under control! “I didn't need saving!" She knelt beside the unconscious interrogator, lightly smacking her bloodied face. “And I don't even know you muscled dolts."

“Well that's weird." Carl spit against the hallway, “Sure looked like you did." He turned to the second one, his voice whispered. “They change the meanin of rescuing while I slept?"

“Oh cut the chatter will you?" Brenda slipped through the two like she was covered in oil. She was dressed in padded armor, an arming sword held aloft in her hand. “She doesn't need to listen to your bafoonery."

“You!" Ossai rose, eyes a flame, thrusting a finger into the woman's padded chest.

“Yes me." Brenda snatched the woman's wrist forcefully, moving it away. “Whatever can I do for you?"

“What are you doing here?! Taking me back?" She backed away, snatching the interrogator's weapon. “You have some nerve showing your face after what you did."

“Saving you." The second man yawned. “We already said. You dense or something?"

“She's an elf!" Carl smacked the man, “And it's pronounced possessed!"

“Shut your traps you two." Brenda cut them off, peering past Ossai and flourishing her sword. “Can't you see a plan in action when you see one? You wanted to get into this place….Well here you are!" She spread out a free hand, gesturing to the stone. “You two just were stupid and fought…Got hurt in the process."

“THAT was the plan?" Ossai shook, dumbstruck as the woman simply beamed. She could choke her, kiss her, or perhaps just torment her. “YOU didn't tell us!"

“That's the trick ain't it? Gotta make it look believable. You got what you wanted." The woman winked, giving Ossai a charming smirk. “All sneaky like."

“Boss best at sneakin." Carl chuckled, scratchin at his head.

With a calming breath Ossai set a hand on Brenda's shoulder. “Wonderful as this is. I'd managed to free myself from that interrogator. I even had them send a man to stop the execution of Croesus from happening." She scowled as Brenda's eyes suddenly lit up in realization. “What?"

Brenda's eyes darted behind her, guilt painted on her face.“Was that the man that came up here not more than a minute ago?"

“Don't tell me." Ossai's voice stammered, the pit in her stomach churning.

“I smashed him good!" Carl beamed, “Wam. Right in the head I did!"

“Not kill him though." Second guard chuckled. “We just shoved him in closet. Like jacket."

“Who'd want to wear him?"

“You utter fool!" She shoved them back against the wall, heading back towards the exit. “We must hurry! Before it's too late!"

“No need lady." Brenda stopped her with a forceful hand. “Think this wasn't planned? Have a second group getting my pal Croesus out of the fire. Not the first time his tail feathers been this close to burning."

“What about the runes then?" She backed away, mind still reeling as a relieved breath overtook her. She hated being this out of the loop. She was the one supposed to be doing the planning. Not the other way round.

“Jeff."

“Who in the nine hells is Jeff?"

“Hi." A twig like man stepped out from behind Carl, hardly coming up to the man's chest. He was dressed in pristine magister robes, and had a youthful energy about his face as he grinned ear to ear. “I'm the inside guy of the job."

“So don't get your panties in a bind. There would be a thunderous crack." Brenda shrugged. “And you hear that?" She held a hand to her ear. “None of that, so he must be fine." She held out her hand. “Deals still a deal. Still want them runes gone?"

She stared at the outstretched hand. Brenda had done exactly what she wanted. Even more, somehow fooled even her. There would be numerous times to chastise and argue with this woman, but now was not the time. Her eyes traveled from muscular men staring down the hallway, Jeff who was still waving his hand like he couldn't stop.

“So? Trust us?"

“No." She spat, but grabbed the woman's hand. “Though you're all I have right now. So that'll have to do." She'd watch them for now, turn tail and flee if they looked too suspicious. Besides. In her true form, she'd dispatch them if they crossed her. She glanced down the corridor, half expecting to see Croesus strolling by unharmed and flanked with a squad of mortal saviors. She knew it was fantastical, but it didn't stop her hoping. “And pray that you rescue him." Her hand shot up like a sword towards Brenda's face. “Or there will be hell to pay."

“He'll be fine." Brenda sighed and rested her hand on Ossai's shoulder. “I don't want to see that feathery idiot dying either."

“Okay….We must make haste." Jeff stuttered as the muscular men shoved the interrogator into a closed filled with brooms and kegs. “Another patrol will be nary a minute longer. We best find the rune creation room before they catch wind someone is missing."

“Then lead the way Jeff." Ossai's breath was calm and collected. “I've waited too long for this."

* * * * * * * * * *

Through the keep they went, not even having to be all that sneaky. The muscular brutes held either side while Jeff proudly led them through the numerous halls. The man's chest was swollen with a fake bravado trying to hide the nervous tick about his eye. Ossai played off her more troublesome thoughts by catching glimpses of rooms as they passed, a two layer dining hall set with long tables, a training room with dummies and blunted weapons and another that had rows of numerous gleaming potions waiting to be drunk.

They finally came to tiny closet that smelled of old parchment, coated wall to wall with shelves of multicolored tomes. With shaky breath and racing heart the dragoness watched as Jeff leaned out one tilted one of the spines, revealing a secret door from the shelves with a soft clink. The men with a hushed whisper waved them along, and it was only the brutes that had an issue.

“But it feels spooky!" Carl protested, crossing his arms. “Makes my neck all cold."

“Get in there you big baby." Brena shoved them inside with a boot. “Honestly."

As he foot touched the top of the hidden stair her spine tingled. Like she was going to leap from a tall cliff. Wrongness was flowing from down the darkened stairwell. Magic far beyond that of dragon kind. Only the gods could display such power.

“What's down here?"Her voice was nearly a whisper as she ran her palm along the rapidly spiraling staircase. It was as smooth as a stone plucked from a river, and as cold as a chilled blade's kiss. Her whole body trembled the longer she held contact, almost rejecting what this was. She pulled back, her breaths shallow.

What on earth were these mortals experimenting with?

“Some…Er…machine they uncovered." Jeff summoned a ball of light in one hand, rubbing the back of his neck with the other. “Constructed the whole keep around it. Leaves an uneasiness on the air. Like something, anything is going to go wrong. Some have said that they can hear faint whispers coming from the very walls." His glimpse back with a nervous smile wasn't comforting in the least. “Hopefully that last one has no truth to it." The man visibly shook. “Hate ghosts terribly."

“Ghosts!?" Carl shook, raising up his fists. “No one said nothin of ghosts."

“You were ready to fight mages." Ossai replied harshly, narrowing her eyes. “Who throw around magic."

“Yes, but not ghosts!"

“There ain't no ghosts down here." Brenda snarled. “Just bit of fancy dragon magic to make the bonded."

“But its not even that." Ossai's words felt like a faint breeze, “This is something else." She shivered as they reached the bottom, flinging open a pitch-black door lined with runes. “My father told stories when I was young. Of gods and the places where they were from. Survivors of a doomed existence. All banding together to find a place to hide and create. This place, the fruit of their labors. My father called it…Storyteller magic."

There was silence between them. Enough where one could hear a pin drop. All save the blood pulsing in her ears, and the slight fidget of one of the warriors. That was until Carl coughed.

“Sounds made up."

“Storytellers?" Brenda burst out laughing. “Come on Lady. You can't believe that bull. Your father must have been quite out of his loon."

Gritting her teeth, Ossai maintained her calm. “There is less then to be afraid of then. Unless you're both acouple of cowards."" She smirked when the two brutes frowned and rolled their shoulders.

“We're not cowards." One whispered, doubt dripping from his words.

Before them came a room of carved and ancient pitch black stone. Pillars spread out like welcoming matt, covered in depictions of numerous races all in glorious celebration. All sitting in awe of these prominent humanoids that stood on high. The ceiling pulsed like a heartbeat with an eiree lavender glow, drawing curious eyes and worried gasps from those around her. With her next breath a rushing cold swept over them all, running icy talons over every inch of skin. She trembled as her breath caught in her throat and the walls hummed with an unearthly power.

She stumbled, nearly collapsing onto a pillar as her breath misted from her lips. “This? This Is how they make bonded?" She slipped from the pristine stone; her weight seemingly tripled since her first step. She stared at the blank faces of the carvings, somehow following her with every move she made. The others were just nearly as troubled. Proclaiming their discomfort about the hardness of the air, the weight, and the looming cloud of despair.

“Yes, yes. You're all undergoing first introduction to it. Nothing out of the ordinary." Jeff stood straight, striding unhindered across the onyx like floor. “Good thing you didn't throw up! Some folks can't handle being in the presence of this alien like contraption." While the others wobbled and tried to regain their footing, Jeff was quick to dart around and inspect the carvings. “It appears as though everything is here." He smiled, tapping one section far within the hall. His voice echoing off the walls. “Everyone must be engaged elsewhere. The gods truly have blessed us huh?" His hand found his chin, rubbing along his thin features. “They really did slow down on bonded production…"

“What are you blathering about." Ossai gasped, clutching her gut as a jolt of pain coursed through her. He pointed up and she followed his fingertip. Along the ceiling was more then just an inky void where light would bring life. There were faint grey cracks that spread out across the stone like a river. You just had to focus on them. They splintered and fractured, splitting the further they went across the room. Was this place wearing out? Overtaxed or overworked? Could it even be destroyed? She nearly laughed at the idea. If so, it was something to be documented.

“You monkeys have been defiling this place." She hissed, her next step trembling with anger. “You see this place and use it to create weapons. How utterly primitive. You could have seen so much. Built what you desired." She spread her arms and nearly fell over. “But no. You built weapons to gain power." Her gaze hardened as Jeff shied away like a wounded dog. “You're like children. Clawing away at things you don't understand."

How so much like my kin.

“But in the end, it wouldn't have mattered. Only those with enough of their blood could operate them without worry."

“This…Is the gods work?" Brenda tapped against the runes. “What was the point of leaving this here? Seems rather pointless."

“Or their kin. Or that of their close descendants." Ossai touched one such blackened crack that slithered along the floor. It felt oily and warm, almost running with blood. Maybe long ago she might have been able to use this. But not with these stress lines cascading through the hall. Sooner or later this was going to crumble and shatter. Some of the finest magic in the land, reduced to nothing but dust. Echoes of a long-forgotten time. There was no preventing it now.

Possibly like dragons.

“Hold up." Brenda crossed her arms, suspiciously eyeing the place. “How you going to get out of here with the runes off your dragonessy? Highness? Lady. Wont you be much larger?"

“You would think that." Her eyes rolled and explained in a condescending way how she could shifter her size. “You just have to stop and think."

“And now I can't wait to get this over with." The woman fumed.

“Because you rather enjoy helping a dragon?"

“So, I can well be done with you. If I wanted to be spoken to like a child, I'd have stayed with my parents."

Jeff coughed into his fist. “I'm ready over here. Just need you two to touch those dragon shaped runes on the wall." He positioned the warriors to place their hands. Though they did so with hesitation, wide eyes and traced the runes like they might leap out at them and clamp onto their hands. When it didn't both sighed in relief.

“Well….at least I get to see something neat." Brenda leaned against the far wall, “Not every day you get to see ancient god magic at work. Here's hoping it doesn't kill the lot of you."

“Then watch closely. I'm sure you're about to see something spectacular." Ossai strode to a circular carving on the floor that Jeff instructed. Hoping that whatever dwindling strength this place held could support her. Her heart pounded angrily in her ears, laced with an excitement brimming with every breath. This was it. She would be free.

“Ready?" Jeff called, earning him a nod from her and a resounding just do it from the warriors. The twig traced a few runes, ones that sprung to life. Vibrant colors burst from the carved lines, their brilliance chasing away any shadow. They had to shield their eyes as the hum in the air increased to a near whine. Like metal screeching against one another. Like a conductor he worked, hands shifting and turning with purpose, thin strands of magical energy following his each move.

Bit by bit the light swept around the hall. Each pillar, wall, and carvings flared to the sun's brilliance. Around them the room shook and quaked. Ossai's skin trembled with unbridled power, her hairs springing to stand on end. She flicked her tongue as a metallic tang hung on the air, and a growing heat swirled around her feet.

“Ready?" Jeff yelled, his voice almost lost within the growing hum.

She hadn't waited this long for nothing. “Do it!" She bellowed.

“It's just the others appeared to be in agony putting them on. I don't know how its going to be taking them off!"

Her heart skipped a beat. “You don't know how to do it?"

“In theory I do!"

Good god. This was the help she was provided with_?_ “Do your best human. Or I shall punish you immensely."

“Got it! But If I mess this up, you'll be dead!"

“Don't tell her that!" Brenda shook her fist, color draining from her face. “Just complete the spell you idiot!"

Again, the room pulsated with an unearthly wind, gritting Ossai's teeth. Great leaps always required sacrifice. First it was her father and his kin. Then evidently it was her. If this is what it was worth to take another leap, then so be it. “Get it over with human!"

“Then hold onto your skin. Cause here, we go!" Jeff pressed a pulsating lavender moon, beams of light surged out from him to her. Like snakes they slithered around and coiled up her legs.

Heat of the greatest magnitude found her, like a branding iron placed to her skin. She screamed as it hissed, missing cerulean light shot forth from a wall to ensnare her arm. With that brought blinding pain, filling her vision with bursting stars. Her back arched as another beam pulled taught her other appendage. Squeezing shut her eyes was the only reprieve she could get as every inch of her lit up in agony. Even her bones felt like they were going to be melted away. She convulsed and thrashed but remained tied to the platform, the air filling with the smell of charred flesh. Her flesh. Still she screamed a tortured cry, mind nearly snapping from the effort.

Please.

“They're vanishing!" Brenda screamed over her. “Hang in their dragoness lady! You've almost got it!"

But it was quite the challenge. To not collapse at it felt like lava had been poured inside her. Still her body scream. Her herculean willpower the only thing keeping her conscious.

I will not die.

With a final face wrinkling scream, everything went dark. Smoke rose curled from her skin in copious amounts. Her knees shook and buckled, and she collapsed to the ground. She gasped for breath even if it were laced with smoke. Long pants of relief mimicked the heated pulse along her entire body, laughing in near disbelief as she held her arms to her eyes. The runes were gone. Even as her sides ached, she cackled like a woman gone mad. She was free. Then with a bursting of stars she lost consciousness.

* * * * * * * * * *

Ossai found herself in darkness once again. The blissful serenity of the endless void wrapping around her up tight. Every emerald scale, each lime green frill on her head and down to her tail. She floated as if in a vast black sea, her onyx taloned claws flexing in and out. Slow and steady came her breaths, for once in the longest while she was at peace. But deep within the recesses of her mind something was wrong. Sparks of resentments for this inky realm.

But why would she feel like that? This place smelled spine tingling famliar. The scent of dragons found every breath, intertwined with the alluring spices of a well cooked meal from her servants. Old memories drifted through her mind like a summer's tender breeze. Of Elaborate dishes small and large, getting whatever her heart requested. She smiled and enjoyed the phantom flavors dancing on her tongue, the pleasing atmosphere of pleasant conversation, and all the other dragons that took their place. One or two tried to court her for the evening, putting on the strongest acts of magic or strength. To prove they were worthy of her pedigree. But as she took in their bouts she couldn't help but be troubled once more. One tiny kernel of unease. Wasn't she supposed to be concerned with a gryphon or something?

But why would I?

She had everything she wanted right here. She could float here and be back home. Lounging amidst the many treasures of her home, plotting schemes and stakes for more land and influence. Infact she could almost feel her coins beneath her claws, the familiar aroma of burning incense, and the soft pitter patter of mortals cleaning her palace.

She opened her eyes to find herself within a gilded palace with gold traced lovingly over every piece of furniture or treasured cloth. Columns of mighty stone held what roof was allowed in this vast throne room. Cushions made for dragons adorned the corners, elevated so that those resting could observe the ground below. It sat atop a mountain, allowing her to see forever. Dragons of all colors flew among the sky's clouds, greeting the hanging sun as if a brother.

She stood proudly amidst the porcelain like floor, polished to near perfection by a pair of cleanly dressed humans. They avoided her gaze, shuffling out of the way as she passed without a second thought. Her scales warmed to life within the golden light, bright green ones that would put any other to shame. They went well with golden rings about her claws, glinting in the sun like little stars.

“The past." She sighed, setting down to glance out to the countryside. Already the sun had drifted to hand at the horizon's edge, seemingly trying to consume everything in a red-orange glow. Her heart throbbed as she saw dragons swirl about like leaves caught in the wind.

“You could make this again daughter." Her father's voice tugged at her ears as a golden dragon appeared beside her. Nearly dwarfing her in size, making her feel like a wyrmling again. His scales glimmered like a lost treasure; his white feathery wings fluffed for his flight. Whiskers wiggled about his snout like dangling eels. How they used to make her giggle when she was little. “To have dragons as they should be. In their proper place. The hierarchy of life restored to its proper order."

She averted her gaze and thought to the emptier sky. The future she helped bring into being. The one she thought which would have been brighter. One with the lack of dragons.

“I forgive you daughter for your allegiance to Bahamut. She may be a goddess, but I misguided. Look where her faith in mortals brought us." The gold male sighed heavily with a saddened look about his brow. His head dipped and his wings pinned. “A future that doesn't know our brilliance…At least not like it should."

This wasn't right. The green dragoness slunk away from his gaze. Her father had hardly been this cordial with anyone. “What naïve you must think I must be." She cast him a warry look, muscles primed to pounce. Already spells were coming to her. “I've seen what you've done to those that followed her."

Like a switch had been flipped, his expression changed. Kindness melted and shifted until a hardness she knew returned to his eyes. Like a blade's edge he glared at her. “That is certainly true, but you're different. You're…"

“Your daughter." She hissed, “And never this sentimental." She batted at his raised forearm.

He just sighed. “And unlike my mother I care deeply for my offspring. You simply chose poorly, a lesson that you can learn from."

Her gaze flicked to the humans still mopping the floor. She suspected they'd finished awhile ago but where simply waiting to be told to be done. “It also wasn't as carefree as this." She glared at the flying dragons giving off pleased warbles on the wind. “Conflicts still hounded us."

“Because of Bahamut." The emperor growled in his throat. “But she's taken care of now. Nothing could stand in your way. Think of it Ossai. Daughter of the emperor, the divine right to rule. You could reshape this new world in the image of dragons." He unfurled a feathery wing to gesture to the rolling hills. “Everything the light touches could be ours…Yours again."

Oh, how long she'd have loved to hear these words. To rest her snout with her father as they adored their kingdom. Long ago in some faraway place all but lost to her now. The tile around her began to quake and stir. Whole section bubbled and churned like a boiling pot.The countryside screeched out in a cacophony of thunderous earth until it transformed into a near endless sea. Clouds had surged to fill the sky, crackling and surging with brilliant streaks of lightning.

“But it leads to ruin father!" She fell into the churning waves. Gigantic things that threatened to swallow the dragons whole. “It did lead to our ruin! Not just for us but for the mortals and this world."

“But it was their place." Her father hovered above the waves, casting her with a predatory look. “They would have brought war upon us if we didn't take the lead. Just look at what years of mortal dominance have brought! Dragons dwindle in this world! How can you still wish to side with them?" Golden flames curled form his eyes as a threatening growl filled the air.

Around them lighting pierced the darkened sky, winds as fierce as the roughest storms battered and pushed the waves to new heights around them. But still she remained unphased. With a relaxed breath Ossai cast out his demands, his piercing look. His once thunderous voice grew quitter as she focused inward and started to swirl her tail. With a reserved sigh he was gone, cast away to the winds themselves. “There was only one way." She whispered, “And I've out grown you."

The heavens themselves parted for a great platinum scaled beast, heralded by a thunderous crack of thunder. Lighting coursed and raced around her form as clouds swirled and scattered with every wingbeat. Where there was darkness suddenly came brilliant light, day returning for fleeting moments at a time. Eyes like liquid mercury set down upon her, pride shining within those glowing pools. From her vast wings came flashes of a brighter future. Mortals on the backs of dragons. The lands thriving and bursting with life. But one image of this bright future stood out from the rest. It was simply of her standing proud. Two green dragons scampering towards her, she warbled at them with untold joy, embrace the pair with her wings. Together the three green dragons nuzzled, filling the air with their purrs. Those where her children. With tears in her eyes light burst in all directions as warmth flowed to each of her limbs. It coiled and wrapped around every fiber of her being, enchanting every breath with a sense of comforting bliss.

* * * * * * * * * *

How many times must I be knocked unconscious? Ossai groaned, rubbing at her face with her hands. She evidently was lying on her back, the pungent aroma of hay intertwined with horse filled every shaky breath. Confusion rippled across her. The last thing she could remember was the pain, lightning, and the runes being seared from her flesh.

What happened? Where's Croesus and the others?

The wooden floor below her suddenly jolted upwards, reinvigorating an ache that shot through her like a lightning bolt. Open her eyes bolted, only to find herself in a dimly lit covered cart, filled to the brim with various satchels of grains. She'd been sprawled upon them, covered in a thin woolen blanket.

“Well I didn't want to. But what choice did we have? Did you see that they had?" Brenda shouted from just outside the wagon, “Find yourself lucky you aren't on a chopping block right now."

Chopping block? Ossai shook her elven head, rising with a yawn. They'd completed her quest right? She quickly pushed up her sleeves, smiling as not a trace of the infernal runes could be found. Sure there were dark red burn spots, but what did that truly matter? She practically leaped out of the wagon, folded the curtain and spread her arms wide as the afternoon sun welcomed her. The vast green countryside looking brighter and fuller of life than she hardly remembered. Even with the orange glow being painted on them by the waning sun. “I'm free!" She proclaimed with what pride she could muster. Only Brenda and Carl were there to greet her. Both were on dark grey horses pulling the cart along.

“Oh, my gods. I thought you dead." Carl gasped, nearly toppling from his mount.

Ossai straightened her back, “It takes more than that to kill me."

“Not in that form it doesn't." Brenda scoffed. “You're just as easy to kill as us."

“Not quite now woman." She showed the woman her arms. Let her soak that mental image in. “Not a rune in sight. My magic is my own now."

“Then why not show us? I'd rather not be troubled by you any longer than I have to be. The woman's arms tightened across her chest.

“Excellent idea woman. I tire of this form anyway." She leaped from the wagon, waving off the concerned look that Carl was casting upon her. She glanced around, not finding any others in sight. Where they off doing something else? She shook her head. Questions would come after. “Give yourself some room humans. And keep fast your beasts of burden so they do not rear." She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. She focused on emerald scales, her sprawling wings, and her onyx claws. With a pleasing hum she let familiar magic warm her belly and spread through her fingertips. Loose dirt and grass began to float around her as a phantom wind scattered anything loose around them.

“Get the horses away!" Brenda shouted, guiding the wagon away as the wind's scattered dirt and small rocks in it's wake.

The once dragoness felt the rippling itch of the coming spell as she guided it. Through her inner rivers of magic it flowed, massaging her arms, twirling around her fingers like little strands of yarn and finally rushing to her head. What locks had been placed within her unlocked, and the dragon was coming forth. Her hands swayed across the air like she was pushing and pulling the ocean. Slowly drawing her true self out of hiding. She began to prance with her arms wide, each connection with the earth bringing a rising heat. The first time was always the hardest. Her hands clapped together as if in prayer. Again she focused on herself, chanting deep guttural words on the air.

When next she blinked her eyes were lit with an inner flame. It rushed down to encompass every inch of her being, crackling and burning away the fuel. One last sacrifice to be made. From the fire sprouted her true self, not the soft flesh that bound her. Bones cracked as they splintered and rearranged, a symphony of her arrival. Clothes that had warmed her ripped as they stressed, falling to the wayside. Scales burst like emerald islands among a sea of flesh, quickly devouring what remained. In unison her tail and wings shot out with a satisfying pop, forcing the growing dragoness to all fours. She stretched and groaned as the fire spread to all of her, like her insides were melting. Teeth like swords grew as her head elongated, frills emerging like trees on either side of her head.

Gasps of astonishments baptized this moment as Ossai stretched, flaring out her wings with a woosh of air. She set her lavender, reptilian eyes upon them. Everything was more clear, colors brighter, every sound of the ambiance amplified to an untold degrees. Her brilliant tail swished in amusement as the beings hardly bigger than her forearm stood in astonishment. How she'd missed this. They sat in near silence for a moment or two as she simple let them come to grips with what they were bearing witness to.

“Holyhell." Brenda stumbled back, hand on the back of her head. “You we're definitely not kidding. I mean…wow."

“Damn! She's big!" Carl whistled with wide eyes. “She goes on forever!"

“Satisfied are we then mortals?" Her voice came, loud and booming. A hint of her pride shining through. “Revel in the smart decision that you've made." She took her first tentative step along the grass, unsure if this was even real. When it connected, she felt the gravel, the rocks just under paw. It was real. “Clearly miles and bounds above your own kin." She let them continue to whisper among themselves, nothing but chatter of surprise and aw. She couldn't help herself from grinning, setting her sights to the dwindling light of the sun. It was close to sunset, the relaxing orange and reds painting everything around them.

Sunset? How was it that late in the day? With a fluttering heart the proud dragoness curled around, narrowed her eyes and set her gaze upon those tiny humans. She darted between the pair, Croesus wasn't among them. Neither were the others that Brenda had brought to help. She whirled around, tail nearly taking out the wagon with a dull force of her frill lined tail. In the distance she could see the fort and the village, a darkened blot on the countryside of fleshed out greens and rocks.

“What happened to the others?" She growled, whirling around and setting Brenda with a hardened stare. Images of Croesus' blood covered beak sprung to mind. Was she too late? “Tell me human."

Only Brenda met her gaze, Carl shifted nervously from side to side. “Things when tits up. Signal was given so we bugged off. They knew the risks. Sides, I got a kid to worry bout now. Can't go throwing my life away."

“You did what?" She snapped her teeth, taking a foreful stride that startled a flock of resting birds in a nearby tree. “You were fine with abandoning them?" Carl flinched as her words weighed heavily on the air. Brenda averted her gaze.

“Whys it matter anyway? You got your runes off. Got your form back." Brenda thumbed back towards the hills and the fort. “They got an army in there. Think you can take care of that?" As she spoke her courage grew. “Croesus knew the risks. Was willing to do. He wanted to do right by you. He did. The old bird can die happy now. You want vengeance so bad you go back and help us." Her hand flung up, finger pointing accusingly at her segmented chest. “After you healed up."

As if summoned her chest ached, limbs felt slightly sluggish as she paced around the wagon and humans. Maybe she wasn't as returned as she thought. The strain of her efforts hindering her. With a sigh she caressed her chest, her wings pinning to her back.

“No sense throwing your life away. Not since we went through all the trouble. Croesus wouldn't want you being stupid."

With a growl she set Brenda with fireclad eyes.

Up her hands went, laughing her color drained face. “Not saying you're stupid…I'd never say that!"

Like a siren the fort drew Ossai's attention. It was true what the human had said, even if she didn't wish to hear it. Her mission was complete. What she wanted; she'd received. All she had to do was fly away and it would be done. She could go off and complete the other mysteries that eluded her. Like how the orb even let her go in the first place. Yet as she admired the hardened stone, it grew rather taunting. Like it was trying to make a mockery of her very being. Trumpeting a challenge that itched about her very soul.

He's just a gryphon. A loyal servant that helped you. Old voices whispered to her, trying to divert her ever focusing mind. But she couldn't shake her thoughts of him. He'd journeyed with her, filled the lonely nights with his company. Made her feel completer and more cared for than she ever did with her kin. What was his life to hers? His was always finite, but hers could go on forever.

You'd be foolish to make even the risk.

But he'd tossed everything away to help her. Could she really leave him there to die?

He could be dead right now. You'd be going to your death to avenge a corpse.

That single thought drew pause to everything else. Cold swept in and dragged icy daggers cross her heart. Each breath was laced with a tint of ice. Her paws kneaded the ground beneath her as her frills twitched in and out silently in contemplation. “What do they have in there little one?" She turned to Brenda, ignoring the disbelief shining in her eyes.

“Crazy, you're bleeding crazy." The woman threw up her hands, taking a good few strides before Ossai was infront of her, a growl filling the air.

“I was making a demand. Don't make me demand it again." Her eyes narrowed, letting a final snort be her continued threat.

“Mages….Crossbows...Ballistae" Brenda stuttered, her resolve cracking. “Spears, maybe a ward or two. Least fifty of them in there. Suicide for us to go again."

“Perhaps for you before." She swelled her chest, fluffing up her wings. “But that was before you had me." Every frill from her head to her tail tingled to life. Brimming with excitement at what was to come.

“One dragon?" Carl scratched his head. “But we had you before."

“Not just any dragon simpleton. I am the daughter of the dragon Emperor, grand-daughter of Bahamut herself." She thrashed her tail, snarling in the air. “I will descend upon them like a malevolent shadow, ripping those from the walls with the sheer force of my wings. My talons will be like spears, rending those against us. This is even without my breath or magic." She grinned, showing off all her sharpened teeth. “They will regret the day of taking what was mine." She chuckled, already picturing the rivers of blood that would be running down her paws. “And those that don't prostate themselves will be felled. The brave will fall before my talons, teeth or die choking on my poison." She flared out her wings, “But I am returning to get my gryphon back."

“What if he's dead?"

She swallowed a sudden lump within her throat, then grit her teeth with a hiss. “Then they will pay for that as well."

She turned to the hesitant looking humans, “Now you can turn and run for the hills. But I am going to either get my gryphon or my vengeance. Help me mortals and there shall be rewards in your futures. And don't take too long…Time is of the essence."

Silence didn't last too long as the dragoness held them in her steel like gaze. Carl took one look to Brenda before thumping his chest with a resounding cheer. “Sound like good fight. I go."

The woman's eyes were more hesitant, traveling from Ossai to that of the path they were still upon. “Tell me one thing." She sighed, “How are you going to get passed all their towers and eyes? They're going to see us coming for miles around." She gestured to all of the green dragon. “Not exactly a picture of sneaking, are you?"

“Think outside of the box human." She warbled, “Just make sure you have some rope." With a flick of her tail and mighty breath she let the magic flow. Every scale on her body shifted and changed until it blended in perfectly with their surroundings.

“Dragon go!" The warrior gasped, covering his mouth. “Or was she ghost entire time?"

“Well….I'll be damned." Brenda gave a sly smile as Ossai returned to view. “They're never going to know what hit them."

“How correct you are." The dragoness set her sights for the fort. “Now fashion yourself some sort of hold with the rope. The magisters will know my fury before this night's end."

* * * * * * * * *

Like children Ossai snatched up her companions, letting them fashion harnesses for her to hold with her claws. They were too far for horses to make adequate time, and by the gods she wasn't going to let anyone ride her. They shivered like little babies as she spun them promises not to drop them, especially when the wind's icy bite found them.

Troubled murmers flowed from them, unsure if the magisters would see them. But she held her head confidently high, her spell had coated her from head to tail. shielding them from sight but not her own. They all past like ghosts adrift the orange sea, predators seeking their unaware prey. Silent as an eagle she rose up above the blackened fortress of stone. With narrowed eyes she gazed upon ramparts equipped with ballistae, and squads of men to man them. Not too much a concern for a dragon, but only if they had the numbers.

Like ants the mortals gathered around the keep's courtyard in an organized crowd. Their prisoners were on full display, bound together with manacles and rope. It would appear as though they'd taken the time to set up cutting blocks, summon up priests to say final words, and gather those from surrounding villages and towns to bear witness to their examples. Among them all she spied various humans, a few cat people and finally Croesus. Her heart nearly skipped a beat with the next flap of her wings.

Hes not dead. Her spirits soared with her, building a powerful warble begging to be released. She buried it down with a steady snort of the crisp air, that victory would be for later. For now she could focus on something else, like her poison glands swelling to life, begging to be used. She circled as the humans in her grip trembled, planning her surprise attack.

Within countless minutes she drifted ever closer. The sunlight behind her slowly sunk below the hills, touching everything with the long shadows of the coming twilight. Candles and braziers sprung to life around keep, some torches stabbed into the ground as well. Their flickering orange-red flames, an angry promise to the coming death. One man clad robes of the magisters stood up within a purple viewbox draped in purple and gold banners. His hands rose on either side as if in a spell, signaling the end the onlooking masses under his command. She didn't hear what he spoke, but she glared as the others looked onto him like he was a lord or even king. Just one mortal who thought himself above the rest. One lonefull human that thought himself different, special, one unique tyrant in a world dotted with them. He shouted out his proclamation to those practically twitching in anticipation. He told of various crimes, mistruths, and the promise that he was here to keep all the frightened humans safe. Ossai growled in the base of her throat, gritting her sharpened teeth.

“Boy he likes to hear himself talk. Blah Blah Blah." Brenda mockingly open and closed her hand as Ossai angled a wing, getting ever closer. “Think he never runs out of air at this rate!"

So far so good, no alarm had been raised. No ballista tilted in her direction.

On their next pass, Brenda's bravado took a sudden dive. Her voice cracked, “No way. They didn't…They got August and Mira!"

Sure, enough the rouge was right. Within the collection of prisoners were those two mortals that'd helped her. August's fur was tattered and covered in signs of a whip's kiss, and Mira herself looking just as ragged. Tightly they were bound together, within their eyes the loss of hope. Almost accepting of what was to come.

“You really scare them. Getting rid of anyone that lended a hand. Must want to show they are not to be trifled with."

“Unfortunately for them. I can be quite the trifler." She growled, ruffling a nearby flag on the exterior as she passed. Her eye drifted from the tavern pair to Croesus blood coated beak. Clearly what interrogation they'd done to him hadn't been pleasant. Her blood ran like lava through her veins as she glared at every tower. The first thing to go must be the ballista. Them and their metal pointed projectiles that winked in the dwindling light.

Now its time to start operating. Her paws curled into a triangular shape, letting the air grow hot between them. With words of power the feeling grew, like shed dragged her paws through magma. Darkness spread through the clouds like an unchecked plague, cutting out what sunlight remained within seconds. With the next beat of her wings she let the spell complete. The ear splitting crash of un-natural thunder heralded the coming storm.

Meteor Swarm.

From the sky raced chunks of mismatched, scorched rocks larger than any man. Within them dwelled a power too ferocious to contain, filling the sky with brilliant streaks of red-orange light. For a brief flicker of time it looked as though day had come a new. But this was vengeful, it was angry, and sought retribution. Like gods smiting the earth themselves, they crashed into the gate and towers. Rock exploded in their wake, wood buckled and splintered, metal screeched as it bent and broke. Men screamed in terror as they were ripped from the walls, the very ground below their feet shattering with thousands of minute fractures. Then came more, bolt after bolt that struck like a drum. Thunderous cries that rippled through the keep and brought an end to the magister's little show. Perfect chaos to cover her plan.

Unhindered by the tortured cries of the wounded, Ossai glode around the keep like a ghost. Pity was the last thing on her mind as color drained from every soldier's faces. Her poison glands made sure of that. With a mighty breath she bathed the keep's battlements with green poison as thick as the morning fog. It filled every nook and cranny in the span of a wingbeat. Those that breathed it in collapsed to the ground, coughing and spasming in their death throes. Never knowing what killed them.

Screams like music to ears resounded off the broken fortress as her wings spread wide, landing on the keep itself. Her mortals leapt from their harnesses in a hurried manner, their weapons quick to their hands.

“Don't end up dying!" Brenda shouted, smacking Carl on the shoulder. “Come on! We have a tower to borrow."

With hardly a word Ossai pounced from the keep, smoke curling under her wingbeat. She rumbled in approval as her foes scattered like terrified deer, knowing the wolves were coming. With haste they scrambled to equip weapons and pieces of armor, shouting out their little orders in terrified, cracking voices. That was all but the mages of course, or least the one in the box. He and his retinue of robbed men stood confident, their diligent eyes on the skies. One by one they lit up brilliant red, a spell she knew.

See invisibility.

By the time the lead man rose his hand, Ossai was beyond the furthest tower, swinging around to douse it with gas. Her invisibility faded, revealing her scales to her foes. Commanders screamed broken orders, crossbows were fired in her direction. The sharpened bolts missed all around her or glanced off her thicker hide. A net was launched in her direction, as men cheered their premature victory. It ended with but a swish of her tail and quick word, turning her whole body into gas to easily slip through the spinning collection of rope.

“It's a demon!" One man yelled before she bathed his tower in gas. Not very good last words before he fell choking to his death, but she course had heard worse.

The magister leader shouted out to his fellow mages, surely trying to formulate a battleplan with a dragoness appearing in their midsts.With his arms held wide, lightning crackled around him. Tiny rivers of electric might flying from his outstretched arm to greet her in twitching death.

With an angle of her wings she avoided not just that one but three others that followed in it's wake. Clearly they were used to working as a team. Too bad their effort only revealed their hiding spot and became her next targets.

She swooped down upon them as the wizards wove their next spells. Shimmering orbs of golden light weaved around them like thousands of little strands of yarn, shields to block her spells. But that wouldn't save their minions.

Gathered men of varying sizes scrambled behind magically created sections of earth for cover, clutching their crossbows with whitened knuckles.

“Loose your bolts!" Their commander shouted, bringing a swarm of angry, wooden sticks. Butit was for naught, for with but a word her scales turned to stone, and their attack splintered uselessly off her. Her rebuttal was swift and brutal, a long breath of rolling gas that curled around every stone pillar wrapped around every gathered soldier like a tender lover. They cried out in a desperate panic, filling the air with their pleas. She curled around the keep, growling in her throat. Her eyes brimming with murderous intent.

Wizards flung another volley of lightning in their desperate plea, crackling bolts of electricity that danced across her flank, lightning up pain through her form. With a groan she lost her focus on the stone skin, scales shifting back to norm.

“Take heart men. Her defenses fail!" One mage yelled, and with a push of his hands the gas that had been lingering around was swept away with a burst of air.

Survivors pushed themselves up with shaky hands taking aim as she came around. That didn't save the last tower. Ossai curled around it, ripping two men from the walls with her talons. She rose up and dropped them, not glancing back as they fell to their deaths screaming. She surged towards the mage and his kin, only to earn a half dozen bolts sent into her hide. She broke off, hissing her fury. It would appear as though the minions still feared their masters over her. That would have to change.

With a leg wobbling roar, she rounded the keep, landing in the courtyard with a mighty thud and gust of wind. When she flared out her wings, magic surged. Gravity itself bent to her will, as the soldiers who'd been firing now were untethered to the earth.

Screams of unbridled terror filled the air, some desperately reached for the ground,poles or anything plunged into the earth to stop their ascent. Weapons were lost in the confusion as the dragoness watched with a pleased smirk. With a final glare to the purple box magister she made her point crystal clear. These men were going to die. With a calm breath she let the spell fade. In one terrible lurch soldiers came racing down to greet the ground. Skulls fractured, bones cracked, skin burst, and spilled blood muddied the earth as screams were silenced one by one. With hardly a glance to the crimson painting she charged the leader mage, a growl building in her throat.

If the mage was concerned, he didn't show it, instead calmly finishing what spell he'd been weaving. From his fingers sprung a giant being of air, a creature double as tall as she was with a winding body of clouds. She was sure he gave the order to attack as the thing soared towards her with the speed of a gryphon.

She lashed out with sharpened claws as its incorporeal body screamed around her. One, two, her claws tasted nothing, simply pushing aside the vortex like body it possessed. It was like trying to attack a tornado itself. Clearly brute force was not going to work. Though while it was made of air, it's attacks were anything but benign. They cut through scales like tiny whips , tearing thin crimson lines along her flank. She winced and hissed, managing to carry herself away with her wings. But it closed the distance with but a heartbeat, its windy body growling on the air.

It slammed her to the keep, cracking off stone and knocking the air from her lungs. Stars burst before her eyes as she squirmed and thrashed against its herculean strength. Firecrackers exploded in her chest as it pressed harder, slamming her a second time as she tried to slip free.

She had to break his concentration over such a spell, or somehow escape this thing. With each passing second, she could feel her strength leaving. She would die from this magical conjuration. She tried to leap to the sky, but it caught her within a spirally arm, and slamming her to the ground. It enveloped her like a cloud, sucking the air from her lungs.

Crashing to her belly she wheezed for air. Her lungs burned and pleaded for any relief. She choked, twitched, thrashing her tail to get any breath into her.

Was this it?

Her mind was screaming at her, vision was getting blurrier by the second. She was certain there wasn't going to be another chance. She pushed the near burning of her lungs from her mind and focused on a spell. One she didn't need the words. Magic surged through her bones, bubbling and building like a pressured gas. It sought a way out, nearly bursting her insides until it found what it was searching for. With a stamp of her paw it released as a bellowing roar that echoed like a thunderclap. The elemental was pushed towards the edge of the keep, giving her a few dozen gasps to get back her breath, and a chance. She turned and leaped to the air, setting her sights back towards the elemental's master.

To slay the snake…One must cut off the head.

The un-natural wind screeched behind her, catching any debris not chained to the ground.

She hoped he didn't have too many spells to protect him, as in her case she was running out. At least she had an idea. Just like that armored buffoon from the walls earlier. She just needed a projectile. She found purchase in one of the stones from the broken walls, everything around it now a burning wreckage of ash and charred storm. She pounded her wings to gain as much altitude as she could, even thought her joints were burning as if in a stove. But still she persisted ,staying just beyond the angry wind beast nipping at her tail.

Up and up she soared, high above the wizard's tent and shield. Doubtful that he could see her this far, at least not to know her plan. She let the rock drop, relief spreading through her as the present sailed towards its target. She dove right behind it, an emerald spear of destruction.

It deviated just a bit, slamming into the ring of the protecting shield. Her projectile splintered with a thunderous crack, showering everything around it with sharpened stone shards. The shield and creature faded away into nothing, leaving the wizards exposed to her. With a mighty back wing she landed amidst the cloud of thick dust, decapitating one poor man who tried to cast another spell at her. Another was smacked aside by her tail, impacting the keep like a rotten tomato. Cries for their lives were sweet music to her as she downed or crashed one after the other. Some tried to fight her with spells, but a dragon mere inches from your face proved much to dangerous for them to complete them.

Some arrows were launched at her within the cloud, they stuck like thorns from her side, but it was of no consequence as she tore mage after mage to pieces with her claws, painting the stone and gravel with coasts of crimson paint. Even if they tried to flee from her she caught them. Their legs too small to get beyond her reach.

“Stand down dragon!" A ragged cry screamed over the dying sounds of all the men. The lone magister leader, ragged and smeared in a mixture of blood and dirt. He was using a hand to hold a hefty axe aloft. One positioned to take Croesus' head.

Despite the ice like sensation running through her blood, Ossai rose her head, puffed out her chest and put on a brave face. One of fierceness, fire shining in her eyes. As if the very air around her would spark into flame.

“Really?" She growled, taking one powerful step. Watching as the man flinched, color draining from his face. “Thinking that threatening one of your captives might save you?" She chuckled mockingly in her throat, loving how his eyes darted to the crimson soaked ground crunching at her paws.

“This is who you came to save isn't it?" The man barked back, “He told me about your trip. I know how much he cares for you." The magister dug the axe blade into Croesus' throat until the gryphon shrieked his reply.

“Yes!"

The wind ruffled at her wings as Ossai filled with fire. Her voice was like a sword's hiss upon the air. “Look around mage. You and your kin have inflicted this upon yourself for keeping what is mine. Some still live among this ruin. Would you like them to perish as well?" She gestured with a wing to the smoking ruins around them. The terrible work laid bare for all. “And if you dare kill him. You'll regret that decision. You'd wish that'd I'd have simple killed you this day." She let her growl drain what remained of his courage. Honestly, she was amazed he was still standing.

“But you w-wont. You care about him. Won't let the sweet birdy come to harm."

“Don't mistake my care for weakness human. Nor predict what I will do. You are like a child. “ She hissed. “Wielding power you have not the skill to understand. You had an artifact of the gods, and you used it as a cudgel, squandering it to make puppets and weapons!" She took another step, the ground cracking beneath her paws."

“How is that different from your people?" He scowled. “The history of your people is bathed in blood and war. How they enslaved and dominated the lesser races! Just seems like the way of the world. Those with power wield it over the weak. It's just my turn in this circle of life."

“On second thought." The mage glanced around, taking in all the death and destruction and giving a heavy sigh. “How about this for a deal. You get your gryphon back and you leave. Back to wherever you came from. I have no more qualms with you."

“Nothing?" She scoffed, frills flaring out. “You can say that with a straight face?". Her gaze hardened as a growl slipped through her teeth. “While your people poked and prodded. Threatened to wipe me away, battered us into coming here." She gestured to August and Mira and the others whom stood in awe, seemingly bewildered at what was unfolding. “To any soul that dared help us. Anyone that dare speak out or question the will of an angry child. Whose small world is slipping ever so quickly through their fingers."

The mage didn't shift in his conviction. “So that will be a no then? I'll need some sort of agreement on-“

Ossai snarked as a sharpened spear flew into her chest, right below the ribs. Snarling she caught sight of a lone knight she'd thought dead. He could barely stand, panting from his final effort. Back she fumbled as blood flowed from the wound, crushed underfoot by her paws. With a flick of her tail he was sent flying feed through the air, tumbling head over heel until he came to a silent stop.

“You're running out of minions mage." She hissed, panting as her vision turned red. Murder whispered at her ears, tugging at her claws. But not with Croesus captive the way he was. “You…delay the inevitable." She coughed, “You kill him and you die. Release him and you might live. Your choice is simple."

He didn't get a reply, instead his eyes went wide as he took an arrow to the chest. The dragoness took her chance. Surging like a loosed arrow Ossai lunged, slicing through his robes like tissue, and tearing his skin to bloody ribbons. The mage stumbled backwards, gurgling his last before she crushed his torso under her paws.

Finally

She took a deep breath, savoring the moment of relief coursing through her.Without another thought she sliced away Croesus' bindings and nosed at the bruised and weary gryphon. His tired and sunken eyes only made her concerned snout inquire his feathers further.

“I thought you were.." He shakily breathed, too weak to push away her snout.

“Dead?" She rumbled softly, trying to ignore the dried blood all over him. Wounds by swords and clubs still evident on his fur. “Please. It takes more then that to get rid of me."

“So, this is the real you huh darlin?" He coughed, giving her a beak parted smile as he looked longingly up at her. “Didn't disappoint none. Just as fantastical and beautiful like as I said." He weakly pushed at her nosing snout as it drew close to looking onto his blood coated claws. “Just a flesh wound. No need to be makin all the fuss. Had them on the ropes until you showed up."

“Sure looked like it. " She laughed, licking at his face. That only made his ears splay, and another playful bat at her snout. “Maybe I should have waited around to see how it played out."

“No. No." He panted, falling forward with his forearms wrapped around her neck. “Feel free to fly in whenever you like. But If you can find some healing potions, I'd be most grateful."

Brenda and Warrior emerged from the keep, crossbows in tow. The pair wore smiles from ear to ear before pulling out knives and getting to work on freeing the others.

“You son of a bitch!" Croesus squawked. “That plan was utterly ridiculous! Nearly got me killed!"

“It worked didn't it?" Brenada laughed, cutting free Mira, who locked her arms around the woman most tightly.

“See?" Croesus rolled his eyes. “This is why we stopped working together." He fell again to his belly, this time with Ossai wrapped around him like a city wall. Both simply watched over the mortals, letting their tired limbs come to an aching rest. Brenda went about lighting the torches as the sun finally sunk below the walls, perfectly painting the sky a beautiful lavender mixed with blue, leaving the forests and hills but darkened shadows.

“Some Crimson Sky huh?" Croesus warbled softly. “Mother always said it brought great change and adventure. Always was a wise woman."

“Crimson Sky indeed." She chuckled, licking the gryphon one more time on the head.

“So.." The gryphon pressed into her, eyes closed. “Is he dead? The magister leader?"

“Crushed beneath my paws." She held up a claw, allowing her companion to take in the dried blood on her scales. “Cracked like an acorn. Unless he had some magical aid, he won't be troubling anyone a single moment more."

“Good." His tail thumped. “Folks like him always need a good round of murdering. Might as well be us."

When he shivered, she hugged him close, nosing at his furry chest. “Your friends would be proud of you."

“You think?" He tilted his head back, his eyes an all consuming chasm.

She couldn't help but smirk, down at him. “I do. And you walked away from it."

“Well." He poked his chest with a groan. “Survived it at least. Going to leave a few dozen scars."

“Yea but what's a few dozen?" She gestured to her weathered tail. How the frills in some places had tiny holes from where the bolts had pierced. “They build character."

In relieved silence they sat, losing themselves to the sounds of their soft warbles and pleased rumbles. The day's stress finally sunk it's persistent jaws, filling every limb and appendage with aches. Bandages, potions and stitching we laid bare before them. Only Brenda looked onto them with a sly smile, starting to issue orders on who was the best to start tending to the wounded pair.

“They are going to hurt, aren't they?" Croesus asked, warily eying the woman with a sharpened needle.

“Course not!"

“Lair." Croesus whined, flinching and splaying his ears with every pierce of his flesh. It was not long before he was sealed up tight, healing potions drank, and quietly resting around a growing campfire. One she'd easily summoned up with a wave of her paw.

The burning wood smelled of victory, raising her spirits to the stars themselves as they admired the twinkling dragon souls together. For the first time since her return to this world they looked happy. The flickering lights seemingly trying to tell her things were going to be okay. Especially with each tender stroke of the gryphon's back as she told him of the humans and Bahamut, and how each star was the soul of a dragon. Gifted by Bahamut to watch over the world she created.

The wind came as her companions began their own tales, but it was nothing before the warm cheers filling the air. Their jubilant voices combining into one, swelling their hearts and chest to near bursting. They spoke till eyelids grew heavy, and even the Emperor's daughter exhausted as she was, drifted into a deep slumber.

* * * * * * * * * *

With the sun she woke, like she its greener twin. Purpose fluttered about her blood as she insisted and prodded at the sleeping form of her companions. The sky welcomed her its bright and shining glory that spread out to the countryside and thick viridian forests. Despite the ache in her wing-joints,everything was brighter, louder, caressed with a layer of honied gold. Like a siren the sky called to her, seducing her wings open. How could she resist it's call?

She pounced into the azure sky with a thundering heart, spiraling high to dance about the clouds like a younger drake. Winds curled caressed every scale, teased every frill like a lover, enveloped every last inch of her segmented scales in a pleasurable glow. How she'd missed this. Ossai spread her wings wide, closing her eyes and gliding lazily through the sky. This was her victory. The mortals, her body, the sky had at least one dragon among its number. All future concerns seemed less important with every chilly morning breath she took. All of them massaged back to her mind by the sinful caress of the sun.

When she deemed her time had been too long spent, she returned briskly to her companions. Ones who'd resorted to walking back to the town along the horse readied path instead. Croesus had been not up to flying, his stiches and wounds preventing him. She'd landed alongside the trail, relishing the awe filled looks that the humans gave her. Like a living god walked among these more common folk. She'd trotted over, practically a bounce in her every step and a happy swish of her tail. Even Croesus had a sparkle in his eyes of course just for her.

“Miss me?" She rumbled, lowering her snout to his level as she paced around him, finally setting into his more slower pace.

“Oh. I had time to keep myself occupied." The gryphon chuckled, moving closer as the humans gave them a wide berth. “Still a bit sore. Haven't felt this way in a long time." His ears twitched as he clacked his beak, searching for the right word. “Nope. Never been this sore."

“Give it time then." She glanced over his quilt like fur. It would grow back in time. Glorious and wonderful. Just like how she'd done. When his crown feathers rose, she couldn't help but warble her approval.

Together they strolled along the dusty path, one they nearly took up together. What a sight they would appear to be to any traveler. The larger ness and her companions. Would probably send foes running for the hills, and jaws to fall slack. They watched and took in packs of birds that would rise and dart above. Singing as if in thanks for her return. She caught other smaller mammals watching from a safe distance, and relished the soft and tender breeze of the morning air.

When they arrived at Steer's Crossing the welcome was confused and filled with lots of questions. The people were concerned, practically hiding behind the many buildings. They'd only heard of dragons less seen one in the living flesh. They cowered and called for help at first, clumsily ducking behind what they could until Brenda explained and ensured them they were in no danger. Bitch was first to race to them, embracing Brenda in the tightest of bear hugs Ossai had ever seen. Mira and August were met with equal slaps on the back as the crowd padded on in, loud pronouncements and cheers echoing for their safety. Then they explained the destruction of the magisters, and how like a gift from the gods she'd smote them from their ruling hill.

If anyone cared for their destruction she'd never know, for cheers and joyous hoots were cried from nearly every mouth in town. She described the battle as swarms of humans came to listen, gasping and watching on with ever widening eyes.

Heros. That's what the townsfolk had called them. First time she'd ever been referred to as that. Freeing the people from their evil tyrants. More cheers came after the first wave, nearly turning her frills a dark green. Sure, she loved the attention and was rumbling in her throat, but she was trying to keep up appearances. Which was getting harder the more that Croesus chirped his own happiness at her. After the praises that were so thick, she thought she might slice them with her claws, the town offered her tribute. Food, drink, any riches they could procure from their huts and pockets was soon offered to her.

To their surprise she refused them. She had no home in which to store them, nor pockets to lug around every book or treasured heirloom that was laid before her claws. “I have much to do little ones before I can keep your gifts. Just remember I shall return one day to collect them." She'd held her head high as they celebrated her victory, setting her sights to the mountains ever on the distance. “I have much to seek out and explore. Once I have those answers I will return to you. Make certain that the magisters never rise from their ashes. Nor set foot or hair in my town."

Whispers about what she meant by that were met with cheers and celebrations over having been freed. Even Brenda called for it, almost a happy grin from ear to ear. Fires were soon thrown together with a speed she had not expected. Meats saved for favored days were brought out with spices of all kinds sprinkled among them, fruit and veggies joined them of all kinds. Instruments were procured from somewhere to fill the air to with a pleasing, tail tapping melody.

A crown of feathers was soon made for her and her companions. Though hers was stitched together by six humans. They brought it over with gleeful eyes and she lowered her snout so they might place it around her horns. She snorted her approval, getting a group of children to run away from her giggling like mad men. Though some had jumped nearly a foot off the ground in shock.

“Its just a snort!" Croesus had chirped, “Just means she approves!"

Cheers followed that line. Though she stared at him, swearing he was false. She couldn't find the words to correct him. She let them have this.

As the meals were finished with their cooking, the music waned, chatter rose, and they were bombarded with food and various other treats. Roasted rabbits, mouthwatering venison, and pork were among the things brought for her to feast upon. One whole long table filled to the brim with food on full display for her to peruse. Mixed with that were of course ales, wines, and even some treasured whiskey that a wrinkled man had been saving for such an occasion. Croesus was especially chirpy about that one. Trilling like the bird he was in one long happy song.

“I'd have thought you'd take it easy on the drink." She mused as the gryphon happily nursed the bottle given to him.

“And why would I?" He wiggled his hind limbs, giving her a mournful look. “I was stabbed, shot, skewered, and more importantly insulted. I think I deserve something to ease the pain. Besides it does three things." He fluffed his wings, eyeing her up and down.

“And whatever would those be?"

“Well." He pulled up his feathers, looking like a prideful dragon. “Eases the pain, makes my ears all fuzzy, and last of all makes three of you appear." His last one he poked at her lowered snout, his pleased look making her frills blush as he nuzzled against her. She let him have that one as well.

“Don't get too crazy gryphon." She'd licked him once, trying to play it cool and compose that dragon regalness. “Time and place for affection."

When the song and human thanks had gotten too much she'd strode away, finding a quiet spot across the river. One where she could curl around a rock and enjoy the pleasing sound of the river and watch from afar the festivities. One that had involved some sort of holding of limbs and prancing. Humans were such strange creatures. Hopefully this wasn't the first time that mortals would be praising the name of dragons. Though this was most likely the first in quite some time.

Though she'd done her best, Croesus had found her. No sooner then she'd set down upon the grass covered ground did he slink over, a confident stride about him. Even if she could see him trying to hide the limp in his leg, and the wince as the stitches tugged at him.

“Find a nice spot to relax?" He glanced around, scanning every tree and bush. “Quite nice, quite nice. Could use one thing though."

“What's that?" Her brow rose, following the clever gryphon as he strolled closer.

“Gryphon to better the mood. Everywhere can use a gryphon." He settled against her, pressing up against her underside.

“That it can." She smirked, setting her snout next to his lowered head. “Though I can think of something you could use. Think of it as a reward."

“A reward you say?" He flicked his eyes to her, ears twitching in interest. “What is said reward?"

“Ossai." She took a deep breath, “My true name is Ossai."

His eyes widened. “That's your….your.."

“My name yes. A treasured thing among dragons. Don't just go giving it away. Especially to other people we meet while exploring the rest of this new world."

“Back your words up there Ossai." He rose his head, tilting it slightly to the side. “You just assume I'd be following?"

She met his yellow pools, knowing the game he was playing. So, she played her part with a smirk. “Better plans, do you? Some townsfolk girl in distress and needed assistance from your feathery behind?"

“My behind is furry not feathery." He wiggled against her scales. “You know that. So much for dragon intelligence."

“Watch yourself." She rested her wing over him.

“And I wouldn't say I have better plans…" He tapped the ground with a talon.

She snaked her head closer, mere inches from his beak. “Then I suppose I will have to get my name back. Clearly you're not the gryphon I thought you were." She nuzzled at him with a racing heart, one he didn't shy away from and returned with a pleasing chirp.

He sighed heavily as they broke away, their eyes meeting like tied to a chain. “Too bad I don't do refunds." He glanced away, crown feathers rising. “I suppose my feathers are tied on this one. You've roped me into this venture."

She smiled, “I suppose so."

“Could be worse." He sighed, nuzzling against her face. His coming coo came like a pleased breeze against her heart. “I think the first stop we will make is to seek out your kin."

“Telling me what to do now?" She grinned. “I don't think I approve of this scenario."

“Got a better idea?"

She snorted her reply, ruffling all the feathers along his neck. “I think I like the idea to meet some dragons."

“Excellent idea." They chuckled together, settling the air aglow with their warmth.

“Though one thing." He rested his head against her.

“Yes?"

“Don't let your kind eat me."

She rolled her eyes. “I suppose a deal can be arranged for a fair gryphon." With a pleased sigh she snuggled closer, pulling the smaller gryphon against her scales. Sure, she was uncertain of the coming future in this new land of Sethera, but these first few steps had not been that terrible. She had a traveling companion now and given time perhaps more. She had an endless list of things to check up on but that could wait for another day. Today she could savor her victory. She had him, and that was enough for now.

-The end.