FSE

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Chapter 19

The morning dawned with flickers of determination and resolve, the air thick with an unspoken sense of urgency. Arcturus knew well the art of burying doubt, worry, and despair, allowing only steely determination to set the tone. Such emotional discipline had become second nature to him over the years, the skill of prioritizing and focusing on the task at hand honed to a fine edge.

Departing alongside Veledar and Natassa, Arcturus left Merlia and Asterion to their own devices, aware of the tension that brewed between them. Merlia's fiery temper often dictated her choices, while Asterion's heftier weight would prove ill for aerial travel, as well as Natassa not withing to carry him to Shandalar.

He clung to the gryphon's back, the brisk morning wind painting his cheeks with a rosy hue as Veledar's mighty wings sliced through the towering heights of Entis. He felt every sinew and bone, every ripple and breath as though they were his own, fostering a profound intimacy with the crimson beast. Reverence filled him as he grasped the bird's feathers, a newfound thrill coursing through his veins, simultaneously realizing it was not only the flight but the dragon himself that was captivating him.

Above the bustling city, gryphons soared with fervor, their majestic forms dotting the sky with a vivid display of feathers in a multitude of hues. To an onlooker, it might seem like autumn had graced the heavens, painting the morning air with a perpetual dance of vibrant foliage. Gryphons went about their myriad tasks, engaging in deliveries, relaying messages, and offering rides, their melodies blending seamlessly with the bustling throng of Lumarians below. Carts rumbled along the cobblestone streets, and a cacophony of voices melded together, creating a harmonious tapestry of life in motion.

Shandalar's establishment lay on the far side of the city, distinct from the inn where their paths had first converged. Arcturus found a tinge of regret washing over him as he pondered the existence of such covert locations within his watch as the captain of the guard. How had he let such rascals and rogues elude his scrutiny for so long? Nonetheless, a sense of gratitude welled up, knowing that these secret places would now serve a noble purpose, aiding them in their quest to rescue Lyndis and thwart the sinister machinations festering within the heart of his own kingdom.

Yet what should have been a straightforward journey was abruptly disrupted as Veledar narrowly avoided a mid-air collision with a gryphon, his attention too engrossed in scanning the bustling streets beneath them. The feline bird wasted no time in hurling an insult, branding Veledar as a mere tourist, a slight that pricked the dragon's pride, prompting an inevitable course of action. Veledar fired back with an insult of his own, fueling a challenge that culminated in a spirited race around the district, the two adversaries ultimately completing their circuit around the grand clock tower, a symbol of reverence for the two princes whose legacy unified human and gryphon kind so many years ago.

"Must we engage in such a display?" Arcturus attempted to dissuade Veledar, but the dragon's resolve had been fixed; his honor demanded defense.

The gryph had dove through the streets, Veledar right on their feathery tail. The dragon’s hasty beats closed the distance as a great smile spread across his beak. He followed close enough that he was a few seconds behind him, narrowly avoiding people down below as they spun and sped through the streets. With expert grace, Veledar and his rival avoided banners and lengths of wire, chirping their success as every beat of their wings carried them further.

Though his stomach was sick, and he nearly wanted to scream, Arcturus held on for dear life. He had to admit that Veledar was exceptionally skilled when it came to maneuvering as a gryphon, too good if you asked him.

Amid the mayhem of the narrow streets, a red-faced Arcturus was compelled to interject as Veledar's flight nearly decapitated a passing cabbage salesman. The wagon toppled over, its contents spilling out onto the ground, prompting the vendor's frantic outcry, "My cabbages!" Even as the man shook his fist in frustration, the racing gryphons were already careening out of sight.

A determined Veledar, unfazed by the commotion, redoubled his efforts, his wings thrumming through the air with a force that propelled him ahead of his competitor. The two avian figures, neck and neck, set their sights on the looming clocktower overhead, each intent on claiming the impending victory. The frenzied pace, however, was suddenly interrupted by the unexpected arrival of a trio of gryphons, their authoritative presence and distinct city guard regalia instantly quelling the reckless pursuit.

"Stop right there, hooligans!" bellowed the lead gryphon, his stern voice slicing through the chaotic atmosphere. "You're being reckless!"

Arcturus couldn't help but release a weary groan, fully aware of the impending consequences. He knew all too well that they were likely to receive a fine, or worse, be brought in for questioning. With a heavy heart, he leaned forward as the gryphon they'd been racing with swiftly veered off, disappearing into the more crowded sections of the bustling city.

"We have guards hot on our tail, perhaps we should land and have a friendly chat," Arcturus suggested, stealing a quick glance behind them, shielding his eyes from the morning light reflecting off the guards' armor. "Maybe I can talk them down from any fine to just a warning. We could say you're new to the city or something."

"And confirm I'm a tourist?" huffed the dragon, unfaltering in his effort. "But I suppose I should consider this a win then. The coward knew he couldn't keep up with me!"

"Or perhaps he spotted the guards," Arcturus suggested, his concern evident.

"Oh Arcturus, you worry too much!" boasted the catbird, tilting his head to chirp merrily. "They'll never catch me."

“This is your last chance you crimson criminal!” The leader gryphon squawked, pounding his wings ever harder, “Or a fine will be the last of your worries!”

"Do they know who they are even talking to?" Veledar tilted his wing, entering a bank as he circled the clock tower.

Arcturus squinted against the glare, studying the guards' determined expressions. "They might not, but I'd wager they're not interested in finding out either. Lets- “

"Try to lose them? Good idea!" Veledar laughed, deftly maneuvering through the air, causing Arcturus’ cheek to press against his neck. "Come on, guards, can you catch my tail?"

“You’re not supposed to taunt them!”

“Says who? Arcturus, I do what I want!”

“Gods damn’t I hate you sometimes!”

“Nonsense, you love me!” Veledar warbled, practically leaping from alley to alley with every beat of his wings. “Besides, like hell I’m giving them any of my coin!”

It became a chase of gryphon and guards as the pursuers matched Veledar's every move, their determination painted across all their beaks, fueling Veledar’s desire to outwit them.

He sped down the streets, drawing pointed fingers and gasps as he flew past. Banners threatened to ensnare him, but his skilled maneuvers prevented disaster. Veledar swiftly darted into an abandoned alley, landing with a bumpy trot and signaling for Arcturus to dismount.

"Now you choose to surrender, after provoking them?" Arcturus’ boots echoed on the cobblestone. "You never cease to make things interesting for me."

“I have a plan, now shush. Don’t go surrendering yet, follow my lead.” Veledar fluffed his feathers, pressing a hand to his beak.

"Should I be worried?"

Veledar chuckled, “You should be Impressed.”

Lavender smoke billowed from Veledar's feathers, coiling like serpents, thickening into a fog that enveloped him completely. A crackling of magic pulsed beneath the surface. Veledar’s form shifted, shedding his wings, transforming back into the dark-skinned human Veledar, his attire from the gate returning with him as the smoke dissipated into the ether.

"Tada!" Veledar beamed, stretching his arms wide in self-satisfaction. "They will be expecting to find the gryphon, not two humans down the alley!"

"Lucky you that’s clever," Arcturus acknowledged as the gryphons in pursuit landed at the alley’s entrance with a fluttering of wings.

The leader, with eyes sharp as a blade, scanned from wall to wall and advanced toward them, his tail lashing behind him. "The trail ends here lads." He turned to his companions. "Yet I see no sign of the culprit."

"What about them?" Inquired one of the guard gryphons, a female with lavender and black feathers. "Could be them."

"Maybe a shapeshifter," added the other gryphon, a male with onyx feathers and teal, his talons digging into the stone. "Who knows."

"A shapeshifter getting through our blockades?" the leader chortled. "Don’t make me laugh. You two there, yes, the humans, did you happen to see a gryphon with crimson feathers go racing recklessly through here?" The gryphon fluffed his feathers, his eye twinkling in the light. "We have to stop his dangerous exploits, least someone get hurt."

"I believe I saw him," Veledar pointed down the alley and skyward, his tone laced with theatrics. "I saw the handsome devil go that way, practically swooned I did. I’d say he was the prettiest damn thing I’ve ever seen."

"Likely story," the leader scoffed, striding past Veledar with a hardened look toward the sky. "But I’ve seen better each morning in the mirror. Gryphons, our perpetrator doesn’t know when to quit. Let us be off!" With a resounding chirp, he flared his wings, warning his comrades before pouncing into the sky with a keening cry. "Before he escapes!"

Arcturus blinked, struggling to believe that their ruse had actually worked. Groaning, he turned to Veledar, who sported a proud smile. The human knew he was never going to hear the end of this. "You got exceptionally lucky; you know that."

"Nonsense," Veledar scoffed, rolling a hand to his chest. "You just witnessed my expert plan in action. Take note, it was highly successful. We are still free, and our dimwitted followers are now off on a wild goose chase."

"So, what's the plan now?" Arcturus crossed his arms. "You can’t very well take a gryphon shape again."

"Wrong again, my dearest," Veledar retorted, pulling Arcturus in and holding him firmly against his chest. "I can just change my colors like that, and they’ll be none the wiser."

“I hate how this worked.”

"And why is that?" Veledar's smile widened. "Is it because you wish for applause and would find it embarrassing? Fear not, it won't be. Lavish me with all the praise you think is due."

"Encourage such recklessness in the future?" Arcturus laughed with a sly grin. "I think not."

There was a pause as Veledar stood beside him, looking out to the busy street beyond, spying a gryphon couple pushing a cart advertising gryphon bread in the shape of their heads.

As they stood together, gazing out onto the busy street, Veledar noticed Arcturus's lingering smile. He chuckled, nudging him gently. "You have to admit, it was rather liberating."

Arcturus diverted his gaze, unable to mask the grin tugging at the corner of his lips. "I'll admit it was... invigorating, and no one got hurt. But we should have been focusing on getting to Shandalar, not settling matters of pride and having fun."

"Ah, Arcturus, you forget," Veledar retorted, rolling a hand to his chest with an air of confidence. "When you're as wonderful and exceptionally skilled as I am, I can do all three."

“Is that why you were flying around like a belligerent fool?” Natassa’s voice came from above, the gryphoness was propped up on a roof’s edge, gazing down upon them with hardened pale blue eyes.

"Natassa, how nice of you to keep up," Veledar addressed her with a gesture. "I hope I didn't give you any trouble?"

Her ears pinned, "I thought you two were supposed to be keeping a low profile. Arcturus, how can you get anything done with such an impulsive companion?"

"Listen here, you sly-eyed barn pigeon." Veledar growled, striding over to jab a finger in the direction of the gryphoness as she landed upon the cobblestone with practiced grace. "They are my minions...Except Arcturus here, he's my Umraadi."

“You risked getting caught for no reason, other than someone insulting how pretty you were.”

“A lie that needed to be corrected. Besides, you’re sounding like Arcturus here, all glossing over the fact that I succeeded. All your silly worries here will not be heeded. I make the perfect gryphon.”

“Perfect?” Natassa shook her head, padding her way to the street’s edge, her voice degenerating into a mocking laugh, “I’ve seen better imitations from drunken cats.”

“It fooled you last night. I recall you thought I was the dumbest gryphon you ever saw?”

“So, you’re proud that I was fooled by your gryphon disguise but not your stupidity?” She raised a brow, letting the dragon realize what he’d just blundered into.

His eyes widened, then narrowed. “It would be wise to refrain from insulting a dragon gryphon.” He swelled his chest to appear larger, “You don’t have the benefit of being someone I’m rather fond of, and I find you quite fragile and flammable, all things considered. So, I’d think twice before speaking so candidly with me in the future.”

What resolve she had collapsed under his intimidating gaze, no doubt picturing the dragon beneath this façade. Her back leg twitched as she backed away, trying to keep an air of confidence before her, but Arcturus was seeing right through it.

Last night she’d been surprised over the dragon in the group, squawking in terror when he’d appeared. It had taken them at least an hour to calm her down, swearing that she could trust the crimson beast. Even though she had agreed to this, there was still the lingering fact she clearly didn’t trust him.

“A-Arcturus, is he being serious? Is the dragon serious? Please, call off your brute, it was just a bit of playful jabbing, is the red beast so thin skinned he can’t let this wash off his scales?”

“He isn’t kidding.” Sighed Arcturus, looking left then right across the street, making note that the coast was clear. The guards were not returning, no one paying any more attention to them than anyone else. “But Crimson Sky, do stop intimidating the gryphoness, we do need her for the disguise.” He caressed his beard, knowing that to everyone else he looked entirely different, “Plus another set of rational hands wouldn’t hurt.”

Veledar sighed, before rolling his eyes, “Lucky gryphon, that my Umraadi and I have use of you.”

“Goodie.” She chirped, “But can we go the rest of the way on foot? I’d rather not have the life of a friend hinge on such amateurish antics.”

“Just cause It’s not how you would have got it done, doesn’t mean it’s amateurish.” He held his head high in protest, “And besides, Arcturus is going so side with- “

“No, she’s right.” Arcturus spun round, giving the dragon a stern look, one that was met with a narrowed gaze and a groan.

“You’re kidding.”

“Not in the slightest. I don’t think you can help yourself.” He padded over, laying a hand on the once dragon’s shoulder, “The flying, the freedom, we need to get Lyndis and not be weighed down by distractions.”

“Fine.” Veledar grumbled.

“You should have stayed back with the others.” Natassa ran the length of her body against Arcturus with a coo, “I was more than capable of handling him darling.”

“And leave him in your clutches?” Veledar smacked away her tail, “After what happened to Lyndis in this city, no way sister!”

“I guess that means you’ll have to endure the travesty that is walking the rest of the way.” She grinned, leaping to the heights above with a pound of her wings, “While I watch from afar.”

“Oh, how is that even remotely fair. Arcturus, are you watching this travesty of justice? The indignity of it- “

With a chuckle and roll of his eyes, the paladin grabbed the dragon by the arm and pulled him into the street.

** * * * * * * * * *

Lost amidst the ceaseless current of humanity that swirled through the streets of Entis, Veledar and Arcturus found themselves enveloped in a throng of bustling figures, each immersed in their own petty woes and mundane errands, oblivious to the duo weaving through the chaos. Their footsteps were but a muted echo amidst the cacophony of overlapping voices, drowned out by the persistent clamor of gryphons above, their calls piercing through the jumbled street in a cacophony of advertising fervor.

Arcturus's gaze rose to the tangled web of banners that crisscrossed the sky, a labyrinth of colors and symbols that painted an intricate mosaic against the expanse above. Gryphons flitted among the suspended canvas, their wings slicing through the air with an effortless grace that belied the restless energy pulsating throughout the city. The earthy musk that clung to the bustling gryphons mingled with the delicate perfume exuding from passing flower merchants, creating a tapestry of scents that lingered amidst the bustling throng.

Even in his perturbation, Veledar remained silent, his eyes wide and unblinking, as if entranced by the rhythmic pulse of life that surged through the city. The vibrant tapestry of humanity, with all its fervor and fervent disarray, seemed to breathe and writhe as one collective entity, each soul contributing to the symphony of existence that thrummed through the streets of Entis, a testament to the ceaseless vitality of Lumara's beating heart.

The dragon raised his hands to shield his eyes from the morning rays that enveloped the busy streets, his face contorted in irritation as if attempting to bare his fangs and hiss. Failing in this endeavor, he merely appeared comically vexed. Arcturus couldn't stifle his amusement, wearing a half-smile as he swiftly looped his arm around the once-dragon's form, guiding him to the shaded recesses of the street.

"Curse these blasted human eyes," Veledar rumbled with a gravelly edge, his frustration palpable in the guttural depths of his voice. "Sensitive as the fragile wings of a moth. When I find those wretches who dared to lay hands on Lyndis, delaying my retrieval of the book even further..." Veledar's words trailed off as a sharp crack punctuated his seething, the sound a stark reflection of the fury simmering beneath his composed exterior.

"Best not to let thoughts of murder consume you, my dear dragon.” Arcturus guided the once dragon away from a card of exceptionally woven tapestries.

Veledar cocked his head, his gaze scanning the bustling thoroughfare, where merchants and patrons engaged in a lively exchange of goods and coin, their voices competing with the clatter of hooves and the distant echo of a bard's merry tune drifting on the wind. "Oh? So, you don't plan on putting down some of the Lumarian thugs that kidnapped her?" Veledar's tone cut through the vibrant street sounds, drawing the attention of a passing merchant who cast a wary glance in their direction.

Oh lord, he was going to draw attention to them, even in his human form. He hastily guided them away from the gryphon merchant, lowering his voice, "Of course, only if they choose to escalate matters," Arcturus responded, "There's always the chance they'll see reason and relinquish her without further trouble."

“Indeed, the likelihood of that seems rather slim, Arcturus," Veledar chuckled, a rich timbre underscoring the wry amusement in his voice. "Your optimism borders on naivety, my dear friend."

"Agreed, while it's unlikely to unfold in such a favorable manner, it would certainly constitute the best-case scenario," Arcturus conceded, "Constantly foreseeing encounters culminating in death and sorrow would indeed cast a grim pall over our endeavors."

"If they choose to surrender, then we can proceed as you suggest, Arcturus. Yet should they opt for a different path, one I suspect they might, the very walls of their hiding place will bear witness to a crimson reckoning,"

Arcturus regarded Veledar with a thoughtful gaze, his voice rising above the distant bustle of the lively street. "And what, pray tell, gives you the certainty that you will be the one enacting this... reckoning?"

Veledar's eyes narrowed, a glint of determination flashing within their depths. "They'll pay for what they've done," he growled, his voice laced with a barely contained ferocity. "One way or another, they'll face the consequences of their actions."

“What I mean is that you should probably not assume your true form. Not until we are far from prying eyes. We can't afford anyone seeing you remember?”

A drawn-out groan escaped Veledar, resonating with his palpable frustration. "I despise this charade," he muttered, his fingers pinching at the fabric that encased his chest, rolling the material between his fingertips. "I long for the day when I can cast this façade aside for good."

"Believe me, I'd welcome your true form just as eagerly. At least then, I wouldn't have to endure your ceaseless complaints."

“Well... not all of it," Veledar playfully nudged Arcturus with his elbow. "I'm certain I can conjure up a few more grievances.”

As the dragon’s gaze met his, a sudden spark of emotion flickered within him. Arcturus attempted to navigate his thoughts, recognizing the emotion all too well. Acceptance of his feelings from the night before seemed to have eased this process. The flicker that had stirred within him happened to be lust.

“Hey!" He thrust a finger to Veledar's nose as the dragon chuckled in amusement, "Focus on the task at hand you mischievous thing."

"I can make no such promises," Veledar playfully growled, his eyes glinting mischievously. "Especially when I know one of my companions takes such delight in my presence."

A sudden, resounding smack of flesh meeting cloth echoed through the air, followed by a sharp jolt of momentary pain searing through Arcturus's buttocks. The audacious dragon had dared to smack him! Their eyes locked in a shared gaze as Veledar's wide grin illuminated his face.

Arcturus finally voiced his astonishment, halting amid the bustling street. "What in the nine hells was that?" he demanded, fixing Veledar with a stern glare, only to be met with an amused look from the dragon.

"What? Isn't that how you humans show affection?"

"Well, sometimes it is." Arcturus admitted, reminiscing on the moments he had shared with Selina. "Though certainly not in public, you impudent fool. Repeat that offense, and you'll find yourself with my boots planted firmly on your stones.”

"Hah, the joke's on you—I don't have any." Veledar countered with a mischievous glint, only to abruptly halt as his eyes widened, his hands instinctively moving to shield his groin. "You... wouldn't."

"Oh, did that just occur to you?" Arcturus retorted, a mischievous grin tugging at the corners of his lips. A clamor of passing horses drowned out the retort as Veledar's tapping foot betrayed his growing irritation.

"Well, I don't know what you expect me to do about it," Veledar grumbled as they resumed their stride along the bustling street.

Arcturus raised the note that Shandalar had given him the other day, intending to peruse the instructions. However, before he could make much progress, Veledar's voice cut through his concentration.

"I can't even show you affection the dragon way," Veledar lamented, his voice carrying a hint of playful exasperation as he quickened his pace to match Arcturus's stride.

"And pray tell, what exactly is the way dragons show affection?"

"Well, to my chagrin, you lack a tail to intertwine with," Veledar explained, raising one hand to illustrate his points as they passed by stores selling an array of goods. "You have no wings for me to caress with my own, no proper neck for us to nuzzle against each other, and I don't get it." he pouted; a subtle sulk evident in his voice.

In a situation strikingly similar, Arcturus had risen from bed, attempting to shake off the remnants of sleep, a fond smile lingering from the dream he'd had about Veledar soaring through the skies with him. As he stretched his arms toward the ceiling, a sudden strike of Veledar's tail on his backside nearly sent him toppling to the floor.

"It's just my way of saying I like what I see." Veledar had responded nonchalantly, waving a paw in explanation. The dragon had then reclined on the bed, adopting a pose that showcased his entire form. His neck was arched, tail frill twitching, and limbs sprawled out invitingly.

He had found himself yearning to dive into the dragon's waiting embrace, to be enveloped in his warmth. Instead, he had approached Veledar and traced the underside of his chin with his hand. "You find yourself quite amusing, don't you?" he teased.

The dragon had merely grinned in response, his wing membranes fluttering softly as his tail twitched and curled invitingly. “Do you even have to question that?”

Arcturus leaned in, planting a kiss on the dragon's snout. "Just be a bit more careful next time; I nearly lost my balance!" he chided, playfully tapping Veledar's head, earning a chuckle from the dragon. "Although, this does mean I'll have to give your backside a smack in return."

"Oh, so you're looking to give my backside a good smack now?" Veledar quipped, raising an eyebrow and subtly arching his backside. "You're more than welcome to try, paladin," he playfully growled, the frills on the side of his head twitching with amusement.

"Well, that was quite the experience," Arcturus remarked, shaking himself free from the memory of the morning. "And that was just with me around." He gestured to their surroundings with a sweeping motion of his arm, indicating the bustling street and the curious onlookers. They maneuvered their way across the busy thoroughfare, the clatter of several horse-drawn carriages passing them by.

"I want to express my affection for you for all to see," Veledar mused, crossing his arms thoughtfully. "What might be the proper human way to accomplish that?"

Arcturus rested a hand on his chin, contemplating the question. "Well, you could intertwine our fingers as we walk, there's hugging, and wrapping our arms around each other's waists... and of course, there are brief kisses," he suggested, feeling a warmth rise to his cheeks as he pictured the dragon leaning in for a tender kiss. Pausing in his steps, he turned to check on Veledar, only to find the dragon practically right on top of him. Before he could react, Veledar's lips met his own in a firm, quick kiss. Arcturus reciprocated the gesture, letting out a soft sigh as the familiar rush of emotions coursed through him, tingling sensations radiating from his head and flowing down to the rest of his body.

“How was that for showing my affection, then?" he grinned, his hand tracing along Arcturus's side with a soft, gentle touch that carried the unmistakable tenderness of the dragon.

“You've been waiting to do that since we left the sewer haven't you?”

“Well, it is what I can get from you right now.” grinned the once dragon. “I take pride in knowing you love the attention.”

Arcturus placed a hand on Veledar's side, gently tracing the contours of his frame with his fingers. "Well, my dearest handsome dragon, we can't just stand here kissing the day away," he remarked with a hint of reluctance, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

"Why not? I mean; besides the Lyndis-in-trouble part, it does sound like fun!" a mischievous grin formed on the once dragon's face. "Who knows where it might lead," he added, giving Arcturus a playful wink.

Arcturus tapped the note, “It will lead to where we’re supposed to be going, to find an alley called Sunturn, one which happens to be behind a place called Wing and Whispers.”

“Wing and whispers?” Veledar rubbed his chin, “What’s that?”

He shrugged, “Some sort of place for tranquil contemplation? Honestly haven’t heard of it before.”

Veledar scoffed, “Is this not supposed to be your city?”

“Believe it not, there are places that elude my notice. Am I expected to know every nook and cranny?”

“Once more, your astounding knowledge of your city amazes me. Remind me why I took you on this quest again?”

“Hopefully for more than my good looks.” Arcturus’ lips formed a teasing smile.

“They’ll have to do.” Veledar replied with a not so serious sigh before leaning in to kiss the paladin on the cheek. “Now what else must we besides find this Sunturn alley?”

Eyes were drawn back to the note, “Right here, it says to find a small black stone painted different from the rest, knock four times across its surface.”

For a time, they simply enjoyed one another’s company as they made their way through the bustling streets. Veledar of course whined more about his aching feet, his weakened body, of which Arcturus was there to comfort him and ensure they would be returning him to his handsome self. Pleased by the praise, the dragon’s spirits were lifted, ensuring that any complaints died then and there. It wasn’t long until they found the building Wings and Whispers, and Arcturus knew immediately what sort of establishment this was.

“What is a centaur show?” Veledar asked, raising a brow at the elegant structure.

Blushing he pulled the dragon away before many more questions to be had, not wishing to explain this was a brothel. Heading around the place they found what they were looking for, an alleyway that had been painted every shade of blue, reminiscent of the sky. One spot, however, was near the top, the yellow sun, painted with golden rays to streak across the stone.

That's when he found the little black stone, it was practically in the rear back corner. It would have been practically impossible to find if he did not know what he was looking for. It was right at the line where the painting met street, and he would have most likely passed it off as the artist missing a spot.

“Well, it certainly doesn't look like much.” Veledar said in a silvery voice. The once dragon crouched so that his hands were dragging slightly on the ground. He then extended a finger and went to prod the stone.

Arcturus reached out and snatched the dragon’s fingers, moments before he could have placed it on the stone. “It says to knock...” he said as Veledar turned to look at him, giving him a confused look. “Not to touch, not tap, but to knock.” He held up his other hand and mimed the action of knocking on a door.

“You really think she would have it trapped?” he said flatly, before his eyes suddenly widened in realization. “To the secret door to her lair.... ugh.” Veledar placed two fingers to the bridge of his nose. “How could I not see that?” He looked up and waved. “See the longer I stay a human the more stupid human like qualities I get.”

“Are you calling me stupid?” he laughed crossing his arms, as Veledar suddenly looked mortified. The color drained from his face, as he held his head back slightly.

“Uh...er....Not you of course...I....” Veledar stumbled through his words, very much like the places where his tail would scatter everything around.

Arcturus patted him gently on the shoulder reassuringly. It was cute how he was trying to spare him the accidental insult. “Don't worry Veledar, I'm not too insulted. You can of course make it up to me later.” He held a hand to his chest and held his head up. Trying his best to make an impression of the red dragon.

“Can I make it up to you in any way?” another mischievous smile sprung to the dragon's face.

“Is that all you think about dragon?” he playfully punched Veledar's shoulder.

“I didn't hear a no.” a playful growl sounded from the once dragon's throat. Arcturus could feel the rising feeling of lust now spreading out from Veledar.

He laughed to himself as he turned back to the stone.

“I still didn't hear a no.” Veledar growled again, brushing up close, and wrapping his arm tightly around him once more.

“Yes, I heard you Veledar.” Arcturus formed a fist as anticipation built in his chest. “Ready?”

“Oh, I did not mean right now Arcturus, I have a tad more dignity than to have at you in an alley.”

“Not for sex dragon! I meant for knocking on the stone!”

“Well perhaps you should be more specific, I know how your mind goes to the gutter.” Veledar jabbed a finger softly into his cheek. “Besides I can tell you like the idea anyway.”

Arcturus touched his cheek briefly, finding they were warm and flush. When did I start blushing?

“Course we now know red is an excellent color for you. Now by all means.” Veledar waved towards the stone. “Knock on that little stone.” He then rolled his eyes and gave a sigh, “Because I so wanted to see this elf again.”

Just as Arcturus bent over to knock upon the stone, he was interrupted by a condescending clearing of the throat. Looking up revealed that it was Natassa, looking upon them with a hardened look in her eye. He waved with a nervous laugh.

“I lose sight of you boys for a few minutes and you forget I was even here.” She pounced down to the street, cushioning her fall with a pounding of her orange and gold wings. “I can see you’re just blundering on without me.”

“It was ever so nice as well.” Veledar rolled his eyes, “Could you possibly return? Arcturus and I have this handled.”

“And leave my friend’s fate in your hands?” Natassa’s tail lashed as she pinned her wings, “I’d rather arm wrestle a troll.”

As she planted herself down onto her haunches, Arcturus nodded to her, “Apologies, I got carried away watching after this one.”

“It’s alright dearie, no harm done.” She sighed, “I don’t blame you anyway, amazed you got this one to avoid the Wings and Whispers honestly, I thought he had a bit familiar with the blue gryphon your friend had back at home.”

Veledar sighed, “I wanted to see what a centaur show was, but Arcturus insisted we’d see it later.”

“I very well did not say that.” Arcturus knelt before the stone, “And for the last time, it’s not a display of magic as you think.”

“Well, we’ll never know if we don’t go Arcturus. Who knows what kind of centaur magic could be going on, you don’t know.”

He groaned, forming a fist and knocking upon the stone four times. What came from it was a small hiss, like that of a snake. He stood up in alarm as thick grey smoke came to billow up, enveloping their feet, hinds and dragon paws. Snapping to Veledar revealed the dragon had returned to his true form, standing tall in his draconic glory in the alleyway.

“Dragon, what are you doing?” Squawked Natassa, fluffing her wings in alarm, “Shape change back before someone notices you!”

“I didn’t-“Veledar muttered, his frills pinning to his snout as he scanned the alley, “We have bigger problems, there is no more roof.”

“What are you going on about? I just jumped down- “

Sure enough, the dragon’s words were true, a grey slab of stone had sealed off the alley’s entrances from above and the street. They were sealed in without a means of escape.

“Did you knock the right amount of times?” Natassa sauntered to the grey stone, tapping it with a talon, “You were supposed to knock remember?”_ _

“I know, and I did!” Arcturus held up the note Shandalar had given him, practically dragging it against his eyes. He hastily read it three more times, just to make sure he indeed gets the instructions right. There was nothing to indicate what would happen after he knocked.

“Do you feel that?” Veledar lowered his snout to the ground and scraped one of his claws across the cobbled surface, leaving a long scratch dug into the stone.

“No what are you--” Arcturus suddenly felt a rumbling at his feet, like a carriage bumping along the street. Then that feeling blossomed into a violent shaking, threatening to topple him over. He struggled to keep himself upright under such an assault, eventually failing and collapsing into Veledar’s waiting limbs. He smiled, “Thanks.”

“I’m ever so glad you two can find romance at such a time, but could we focus on trying to get out?” Natassa had reared up onto her hinds, gesturing with a hand to the stone as she whispered a spell, her ears pinned.

Veledar hissed as he spread his wings under the violent shaking, “Why can’t wizards have normal entrances to their lairs?”

The alley's painted walls, once blue vibrant sky that had looked so calm was now being consumed it looked like by thin black lines darting every which way like little streams. It began to look like a bubbling poison was consuming the sky, spreading their blackness to the rest of the painting. “You got me, Vele-” His voice was drowned out by a loud thunderous crack, that made him spasm and cover his ringing ears.

The ground below them gave one last violent lurch as a final crack radiated from them, spurting up dust into the air. Veledar growled and grabbed the human tight as the stone finally gave way, sending them and the gryphoness into a freefall.

Panic wove its way to the human’s chest, pressed this tight to his dragon, with nothing but gravity pulling them town. The dragon was desperately pounding his wings now, gaining no lift to stop their descent. Frustration came in a deep snarl, radiating through the core of Arcturus’ being.

“How can there be no air to push against?” Veledar spun around, staring up to the ever-dwindling light above them.

“That’s not all.” Natassa said calmly, her wings spread wide but unmoving, “Do you notice something else that’s wrong?”

Arcturus’ eyes widened, now that she mentioned it, there was no sudden lurch in his stomach, no feeling of impending doom. In fact, it hardly felt like they were moving at all, there wasn’t even wind battering his face like there usually was! He looked up, watching the hole in which they fell get further and further away, how could this be?

“An illusion.” Hissed Veledar.

“There we are, he gets it.” Natassa chirped, her ears perking, “Clever mage I’ll hand it to her, though if you ask me, she could use some work on them.”

Of course, that’s what it was. Arcturus laughed in relief, “Alright, illusion, but how do we get out of it?”

The gryphoness took a deep breath as she closed her eyes, composing herself with a soft chirp, “Just focus on how it’s not really there.”

“I could have told him.” Veledar grumbled, but I have a far more entertaining way of ridding us of such a bothersome illusion.” The dragon threw back his head and drew in a deep breath, unleashing red-orange flames that burned with intensity. The black void now around them suddenly erupted with light as everything seemed to explode in a cascade of multicolored lights.

“There we are one illusion shattered.” Veledar nodded, his chest filled with pride.

“You could have just focused on it not being there.” Natassa ruffled her feathers, though clearly a spark of surprise remained within her pale blues.

“We could have done it the mundane way.” The dragon set Arcturus down and rolled a paw to his chest, “I however did it the superior way, dragon way of course.”

Arcturus tapped the scaled chest with a smirk, “I think you mean to say, over the top so you could show off?”

Veledar remained silent for a moment as Arcturus leaned back into his embrace.

"I'll interpret that as a resounding affirmation, then?" Arcturus quipped, a light chuckle escaping his lips. "Rest assured, your performance was most impressive."

"Naturally, my dear Arcturus. It's to be expected when one is in the presence of such greatness," Veledar replied, his voice tinged with a playful arrogance.

"Is it simply because of your draconic nature?"

"Well, that, and the fact that I know you're rather fond of me," Veledar retorted, gently nuzzling the soft locks of Arcturus's hair. Arcturus attempted to catch Veledar's snout in his fingers, but the dragon deftly evaded his touch. "Perhaps it's time we ascertain our current location," Veledar sighed, unfurling his wings and securing them against his back.

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