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Chapter 43:

A pleasant atmosphere radiated through their intimate chambers, keeping Arcturus adrift in a haze of comforting bliss that invaded every pore of his being. He was lovingly trapped in his dragon's embrace, singing his praises in the most carnal of ways. Spine tingling groans and moans became the norm in these times, shattering away unease, doubt and the stress that had built up the past few days. The air stunk of lust, sex and dragon, leaving no question what had transpired. No one came to interrupt them, for who would get between a dragon and his prize? It wasn't until hours later that the needs other needs of their bodies became apparent with grumbling bellies and parched mouths.

Arcturus found himself wrapped up in casual attire of tunic and vest, shrouded in a thick wool cloak. He was propped up on the dragon's back, right in his saddle, riding him through the halls as though he was his personal steed.

“Are you sure you're alright with this?"

“Yes; Unless you'd rather the denizens of the hall bear witness to you on all fours, strolling around like you want more of me under your tail." Veledar replied without breaking his gait, claws clacking on the stone beneath his paws. Tail swishing, head up, the dragon was a model of pride that he was prone to.

“You're still not tired?" He rose a brow as the dragon gave a lustful growl.

“If not for the need of food, drink and questions from dearest Fremra, I would still have you in our quarters, singing such lovely songs." The dragon closed his eyes with a growl, “Most of which were my name?"

“I don't think those were songs."

“They were to me. You sang them with such passion."

“And yours were grunts?"

“Roars Arcturus, your people have operas with that wailing."

He shook his head as the dragon continued, the tingle of his desires teasing at the man's senses. “And you're not worried that some people out here might get the wrong idea? That you are some sort of fancy horse that is to carry me where I wish?"

Veledar huffed, “Of course not! I'm sure such beliefs will be crushed at my regal sight. They will see nothing more than a dedicated, passionate mate, sweeping his love off his paws." The dragon held his head proudly, fluffing his wings, “Some might even declare me a romantic."

“You a romantic? Are you sure it's not just playing with your pride?"

“Do you wish to walk on all fours to make a fool of yourself?"

He blushed, “I'd walk if I could."

“I know you would, now sit on my back and look pretty." Rumbled the beast, peering back with a smirk, “And fret not your head, let your wonderful mate care for you."

It stilled his tongue, those sapphire pools, enough for him to relax and let the dragon do as he said. He focused instead on the surrounding peoples that passed them by within the keep's lower halls, how different they were from mere days before. Everywhere they looked, the dreary haze that had gripped man, woman and child had all but departed, good cheer could be found in every face. Songs were being sung, reverberating off the ancient walls to lift the spirits of all who heard them. They caught people pointing and whispering their praises, some even cheering for the heroes of Struport.

He pulled his crimson tunic to his nose as he casually recited his love for the dragon, though his words were filled with sweeping ego and pride, he knew they came from a genuine place. Arcturus sniffed, cheeks burning from memories of their escapades, nothing had gone untouched, only to shielded by one of the dragon's minor spells. “Are you sure this spell will hold?

“You doubt my ability?" Veledar trotted away from the mortals, leaving some to groan at the disappearance of the hero dragon. The beast chuckled, staring to climb upwards towards the surface. “I doubt Fremra will notice."

“She'll be the first to notice. I know you like to show off, have me positively reeking of your essence, letting all know that it is you that have me."

Veledar rumbled, nodding to a pair of sapphire guardians that bowed their heads to him through the hall, “I think you're letting your paranoia get the best of you. Though what you suggest is- “His body shivered with a lustful growl, “Most alluring to be sure, but I know how to keep my desires in check."

He released his tunic, again, sensing the truth with the dragon's fog of mischief. Though he might try it in the future, it certainly wasn't now. “Very well I'll trust you for now. Which desire are we off to solve first?"

“Fremra if you must know. You had questions, the sooner we solve this four- legged problem the better."

“Don't get your hopes up. We could be chasing after nothing." He replied, sensing the dragon's anticipation over the whole affair. “It could have been a one time thing, we should be grateful that we even got that."

The crimson beast rolled his eyes with a harsh snort and growl, “You know me better than to be satisfied with that my dear paladin. We'll both sleep easier knowing if you can bring about this silver tailed form of yours."

“I doubt your intentions are so noble my love." Arcturus remarked, sensing the dragon's warming blood. “Face it, you just like the idea of me with a tail and silver rump."

“If I wanted to merely look at your rump, grope it, or anything Arcturus, I can already do that. You can't blame me for taking an interest in this. I am a curious beast."

“I suppose not, and yes you are."

“And you can't tell me that the prospect doesn't have you excited as well?"

He was caught, forced to smirk as the dragon he adored held him in view, frills fluttering, “I'll admit…the prospect is of note."

Veledar chuckled in the back of his throat, before gifting the man an affectionate chuff, “Then lets get our questions answered, our food, and then we can return to our quarters."

They reached the upper levels of the keep towards the surface, where the worst damage had been done. Scratches, dents, and smears adorned what once had been honored marble and stone. Debris was still scattered here of what treasures had hung to the walls, spilled wax, shattered steel, and torn tapestries abound. Death still lingered upon the nose, of those that died defending this place. However, with the spirits of those within, it would be undone. Mortals were busy at work, with buckets, washcloths, and occasional mages with spells. Diligent hands scrubbed and massaged away dried blood, while teams carried off fractured stone. Flowers hung from every corner, letting their enchanting scents waft through the air, easing breath and chasing away death. In a matter of weeks, perhaps not a hint of the undead's attack would be left to sully these halls.

Here the people called to them as they passed, causing Arcturus to blush and Veledar to rumble in pride. They waved, cheered, promised to tell all of whom they were. Several tried to stop them to chat, touch the dragon's scales, but each time they were warded away with soft hisses and promises of his return. Despite this, Veledar really enjoyed the songs they were singing about him, the crimson hero.

“Why aren't they the smart ones." Veledar warbled, a bounce in his step after a family had promised to name their child after him.

“I don't think Crimson Sky is a suitable name for a human."

“You heard them Arcturus, they'd call him Crimson! Or Skyler." The dragon nearly trotted square into Alonso, the ruby knight currently holding onto a length of rope with dozens of other guardians. It was secured to a toppled statue of Storm that lay upon the floor.

“Hail Crimson Sky, Arcturus!" Alonso said with a smile, “How fortunate of us for you to finally grant us with your presence." He gestured to rows of guardians, rope in hand, that had helped leverage the statue up, “Me and the lads thought you'd sleep another day away! Care to lend a paw?"

The gathered guardians shared a series of laughs as Arcturus blushed and Veledar stood on proud. Some of the knights however had stood in awe of the pair, whispering to themselves about something.

“And have your personal pride in your work tarnished?" Veledar asked, sniffing at the stone visage of the blue dragon, “I'd never want to rob that of you."

Alonso chuckled, shaking his head, “Suppose that's the answer I expected."

“And good on you for knowing. I believe we've earned a reprieve from all this- “ Veledar waved a paw, “Grunt work."

“To that we have no disagreement." His hands found his sides, a weight settling about his features as he looked over the pair. “Just good to see you two up and about after the news…That encounter with Dreadflame was…harrowing to say the least."

Arcturus swallowed, an icy chill going down his throat, “It's over now."

“That's not what the word says around the keep. Talk now turns to legendary dragons, rebirthed gods, miracles that transpired to earn our victory." He gestured to the whispering guardians, among others, “Its hard to say exactly what happened."

“All of them facts I can assure you." Veledar rolled a paw to his chest with a rumble, “We're off to learn more about it."

“I can see how you prefer that explanation. Arcturus how be the legs? Heard you have problem walking?"

“Excuse me?" The man cocked his head, “How could you possibly know, we haven't been- “ He blushed.

Veledar chuffed, “We've been occupied."

There was a moment of silence as they tried to grasp at who had informed Alonso of their plight. They turned to one another, the answer coming to them in but a breath; there could be no one else.

“Krotos." Arcturus said flatly with a sigh.

“Krotos." Alonso agreed with a smile.

“Curse his loose beak." The man shook his head. “I imagine half the keep knows about now."

Alonso crossed his arms, “I thought you'd not mind him spreading tales and legends that the gods themselves walk among us?" He turned to compose himself, “Alright that's enough of a break men, stop your gawking at Crimson and Arcturus, we got work to do!"

“Yes, yes, as much as I'd love for you to fawn over me." Veledar rolled a paw, “We must be off to Fremra, I promise later when we're less occupied, you could praise our names, lavish my scales, even cool us off with fans if you wished."

“Veledar." Arcturus groaned, already picturing mortals presenting fruit and meats to the benevolent king that the dragon was soon concocting for himself.

“Right, well maybe not the fans."

No sooner had they begun back towards the surface did they get pulled down another hall, this time by Alonso's husband, Barney, the wolven guardian with the almond fur and black tipped ears. He ushered them into the temple quarters with a wave.

“Thought we were getting to Fremra?" Arcturus groaned as the dragon pulled him forward, “Or are you going to get distracted by everyone?"

“He said something interesting for me to see." Scoffed Veledar, “Come now, where is your sense of curiosity?"

He shook his head, he was a prisoner to the dragon's whims.

Inside the tapestry draped quarters, metal winked in the lantern light. Incents were lit and filling the air with their musky, earthy aroma, enchanting the soft prayers that came from the numerous lips of the priests. There of course were elven different shrines to the various gods, decorated with trinkets, candles and offerings for their blessings. To the pair's astonishment however, there was a twelthmake shift shrine. It was of a piece of driftwood, crudely carved into the rough shape of Bahamut herself.

The paladin's eyes lit up as Veledar followed Barney straight to it.

“Yea, figured you'd notice that one." Barney whistled as Veledar's rumble filled the air, “After that incident in the shard room." The wolven paused, trembling as if caught in a dream. Clearly the man was reminiscing of his mortality, “Many didn't feel like being ungrateful for what happened. Last thing we need is an irritated goddess." He turned to them, head bowed, “So, I'd like to thank you both from the bottom of my heart for bringing my dear Alonso back to me."

“Us?" Arcturus blinked as Veledar rose his head proud.

“Of course, for calling her to us."

He didn't have the heart to dash the thought, to deprive Barney of the feeling that a miracle had occurred. The paladin nodded, “Then your thanks are appreciated. Know I only made a plea in our darkest hour, at a holy site. I'm humbled she answered."

“But don't expect such a divine intervention all the time." Veledar waved a paw, “After all, if she's a dragon goddess she has more important things to do." He closed his eyes, “I'm just grateful that she spoke to my Umraadi and deemed him worthy enough to wield such power to deliver us from Dreadflame's paws. I am blessed."

“And what will you be doing with this blessed gift?" Barney's eyes gleamed with interest.

“Oh, it will be grand that can be no doubt." The dragon's chest swelled, “Roaring adventure, soaring the skies, uncovering lost secrets only one could guess at." He waggled a wing.

“And you?"

Arcturus paused, catching the eye of all around, “More of the same I wager." He rubbed the back of his neck, “Though I imagine our hands will be full of rebuilding the kingdoms and mending relations between our two peoples."

“I forgot about the kingdoms." Veledar groaned, “Though I suppose some adventure could be had in that."

“No doubt! And fulfilling!" Barney beamed, “Which shall I say, it was good to be shown that we have allies elsewhere." He regarded Arcturus with an honest look, “When this first began Alosno had me expect the worst of you, yet here we are, saved from our darkest time." He bowed his head, “Crimson Sky, Arcturus, if you ever have need of a place to stay or our hand, you merely ask."

“I suppose if we're in the area. We could drop in for a story of two."

“Possibly a meat pie." Winked the wolf, “I make a rather great one, though I warn ya, you might make it a habit."

“That I'd love to see."

“Consider it a challenge then dragon! Come round fall, to our little abode, and we'll see to stuffing you good."

With their promises to visit given, and Veledar wanting to drool over the prospect of meat pies, Barney left them to their devices, looking for his husband.

Arcturus peered to the shrine of Bahamut, a simple thing, unwilling to dismiss it so outright. According to the story she was shattered, without proper form, he doubted she'd be able to hear prayers or please the masses.

“At least there was enough power that night." Veledar said, sensing the unease building within, “And I'm thankful she heard your prayers." He turned, a cold slither in his heart, “More so that she released you…For a moment…I thought."

Arcturus swallowed hard, knowing that it might have been. “Then fret not noble Veledar, you haven't got rid of me yet."

“And hopefully not too soon. Or you will be exceptionally disappointing to me. I might curse your name!"

“How so?"

“The paladin who sauntered his way into my life, made all these changes, won my heart, only to vanish? How rude!"

“How exceptionally rude." Asterion's voice clove through the combined laughter as the cleric was busy overseeing a tiny bit of brass and red that was the shrine of Korde.

Several minotaur were there, reciting their deeds of the battle under great plumes of smoke.

The cleric had him not a loincloth, but a robe and vestments, nothing impractical however, enough to move and fight if needed. It was dark brown with a fist of korde emblazoned upon it.

He trotted over, arms crossed, a stern look upon him, as though he were suddenly to disapprove.

“Have we insulted you by our laughter?" Veledar gave a playful growl, “I warn you, I got a few more insults if so."

He ignored the dragon's taunt, snapping to Arcturus. Was that a bit of guilt behind those clay-like eyes? Searching the man from boot to head, the minotaur gave a harsh snort as he usually did. “Good, you're not dead."

“Not dead?" Arcturus remarked as Veledar gasped, “Is that all you to say?"

“Is there anything more? You crossed wits with a dragon of legend and survived."

“No thanks to you and your distrust!" Veledar lashed his tail, “You called us mad! Threatened to kill Arcturus in his bed!"

“It was to grant him an honorable death." Grumbled the bull, “But it would seem…" He lashed his tail, looking upon Arcturus with a mix of pride, “That in my lack of faith, Korde seems to have rewarded your boldness."

Arcturus nodded, if that's all he was to get so be it, simple and to the point. He retuned the nod in understanding, “May I say, next time I suggest being so bold?"

He rose a brow, “When it seems like madness?"

“Would it not make the better story? To face down the impossible and succeed?"

Asterion huffed, “You'll have to tell me the exact way you succeeded…I'm certain it would make a great one."

“I've heard it was quite the sight."

“A wonderous one. Next time you should have more faith." Veledar teased, rolling a paw to his chest.

“Indeed." Growled the bull.

“So, what do you think? That word whispers that Bahamut graced the battle more than korde?" Veledar said proudly, drawing the ire filled glares of several minotaur. The dragon didn't shy from them, but instead seemed thrilled.

“Unconcerned." Asterion dismissed him, turning to the shrine to procure a tiny bit of metal and a scroll. With purpose he returned to Veledar's side, handing Arcturus them both.

“What are these supposed to be?" Arcturus picked up the vanilla parchment, spinning an insignia of a horn between his fingers. It was scuffed, smelled of oil, his brow rose as the warrior's visage was painted with amusement.

“You have not seen the last of me Arcturus. There are many battles ahead for you and your pompous mate; I cannot wait to see them."

“You wish to continue our arrangement? I thought after this whole ordeal, and your redemption…you'd be at peace?"

“At peace but not dead human!" Laughed the minotaur, his tail thumping. “Seeking glorious deeds never ends, clearly, I have misjudged you from when we first met. Arcturus." His tone grew softer, for him, “You may not share the same sturdy, steel like, warrior heart of a minotaur, but it beats with honor regardless. This bull is not ready to retire out to pasture, to go out quietly or father some calves. I'll keep adding battles to my name, legends to be spun." He gave a harsh snort, “And the company you keep, it seems you draw worthy enemies and causes."

“So it would seem we will not be rid of you?" Veledar rolled a paw with a playful growl.

“You have my spells and arm wherever you might need them. For men such as Arcturus and I, spiritual and strength come equal in measure." He scoffed as the dragon shifted on his paws, “Of which I doubt you could assist."

“I take offense to that, I could help!"

“By lazing around and sleeping all day?" Asterion crossed his arms.

Arcturus was shocked, especially after the rebuttal he'd gotten over Krotos days before. He beheld the minotaur with an honest look, “Are you sure? You might have to obey more of my orders that conflict with your interpretation of honor."

It was the bull's turn to snort and shift his hooves, “Korde's path seems to have many avenues of which I must explore. You've not steered me wrong for when Krotos lived, and victory was given to you, then again with Merlia…" He paused, a saddened look crossing his horns, “Is to be remembered despite her deeds. People speak of this grand, legendary battle, where legends were made." Asterion smiled, thumping his chest, “One that Asterion son of Blackrage not only participated, but survived. I'd like to continue that legend, to where it ends."

“Till you find a challenge that kills you?" Veledar scoffed, “Minotaur culture continues to astound me."

“Just like everything else." Nodded the cleric, with a smirk, “A vast army of undead abominations and their dragon tyrants could not slay me, will be interesting to see what can. Pity the man that outlives his enemies dragon."

Arcturus stowed the scroll, giving the warrior a nod, strong hands were always needed, spells double so. Perhaps his days ahead will not just be filled with his scaled love's affections. “I'll hold you to all that Asterion. Though I don't promise to fill battle every day, but I will be glad to have you." He gave Korde's salute chest thump, getting one in return.

“Now are you off to see your silly dragon? I heard she's gone and turned the courtyard above into some wild circus."

“A circus, now?" Veledar mused, snout raised with interest, “I'd love to see the faces on those stuck up guardians."

“I'd not let her catch you calling the wise and learned host of this keep silly." Chuckled Arcturus, trying to blot out the image of the powerful dragoness warbling and rolling in fields of grass, “Especially when she can crush us with a paw."

Asterion nodded his approval, “And you should see the scar she got fighting Dreadflame. I thought her meddle was weak, but she faced him with talon and claw head on. Now get on Arcturus, we can catch up later for training. No need for you to go soft after our grand victory."

“More training, have we not earned a rest?" Scoffed Veledar, going to leave but stopping mid stride.

“No rest dragon!" The bull began to stretch, “For Arcturus and I, the body is as strong as the spirit. You saw with how he called Bahamut. Besides, think of it this way." He gave the dragon a snort, “How do you expect your lover to endure your passions? Do you wish for a weakling?"

Veledar lashed his tail with a growl, “No, never."

“Then we are in agreement."

Already he was getting prepared for another round of rigorous training, even deprived of his legs? Arcturus blushed and let the dragon canter him out of here, before they got into a lengthy debate on exactly the dragon's passions were.

To think all the plans for them were being made, before they even emerged from the keep. If this was going to keep up, Arcturus would have his next years planned ahead for him. He laughed at it, to think so many had drawn them into plots and threads. He simmered in Veledar's pleasure, the beast more than happy to dwell on these sensations. It was a pleasant song which Arcturus could hum. He found himself imagining it, flying high with his mate, the one who caused his heart to be in such a flutter. Paws close, wings almost touching, a greater intimacy like none could know. He closed his eyes and could almost taste the crisp air on his snout.

“Enjoying your thoughts?" Asked the dragon with a playful head turn. “Such warm waves rushing about you."

“Can't hide them from you, can I?" He mused.

“Anything good?"

“Just thinking of you. How I love you, the way you drive me mad. How I look forward to waking with you each morning to find myself in your paws."

The dragon's radiant snout beamed in the lantern light, frills fluttering excitedly as flickers of delight burst within his scaled chest. He rumbled, “And I wish the same my delightful human. The one who reaches down a gilded hand into the depths of my soul, holding a greater grip on me than any might think. I wish to ever cherish you, hold you close, keep you secured and spend all my days and nights." He chuffed.

“Prince charming, aren't you?" Arcturus chuckled, “Or would you be dragon charming?"

“I've read a book or two." The dragon shrugged.

The courtyard above was bustling with people, though not like the ones they'd seen before. Gone were the ramparts, the weapons, the look of despair and debris. Instead it was filled with the wonders of life, radiating joy and delight that had not been known in the last few weeks. Tents of vibrant colors were strewn about with peoples making craft, cooking, playing games and music while children raced and cheered to one another in a great cacophony of life. Tables gathered with drink, food, and spirits, where songs and dance were being engaged upon. The storm had past, the week's horrors all but gone.

Plant life all around the festivities had begun to regrow, sprouting as if spring had come early. Over stone, rock and even boot the vines did travel, covered with multitudes of bright, colorful flowers. They filled the air with pleasant smells, reminding those around of memories of old. They released soft mists of aquamarine that sparkled in the afternoon sun.

And what a sun! Arcturus smiled as the golden light painted stone and flesh, scaring out any sign of shadow and darkness. It lifted spirits, made one want to sing, warmed the heart and scale down to their bones. A deep breath was fraught with nature, earth and moisture, resembling more a spring forest than anything in civilization. It left his senses tingling, wanting more, each breath bringing untold relief through his lungs.

Guardians were of course here, but they had been reserved to the high walls, away from the fresh-faced peoples they'd fought to protect. The knight's attentions were not within the festivities but the walls beyond, pointing and looking on with vigilant eyes to the city in which they cared for. Arcturus wondered if they were being held out on purpose, some silly order by Fremra to keep out their stiffness.

Speaking of the dragon family, they were not hard to find. They sprouted from the people like trees, scattered around the courtyard. Jandar good as new, was entertaining children and people with illusions, making dummies walk and throwing his voice. Occasionally he'd warble and toss out sparks, putting on quite the show with his thumping tail. The black lines that had adorned his body were gone, bringing with him an energetic stride when he stood. All patted his snout and egged on his show, delighting at his magical tricks.

Achaaz however was dangling little amulets around the plants and shrubs, memories no doubt to the fallen. She had a group with her with insects, singing from their hearts. People stopped to clap and pay respects, others offering her food. She waved to Arcturus and Veledar when she spotted them but made sure to adopt a regal pose. To Veledar she gave a wink and salacious swish of the tail.

“That's something to remember." Veledar scratched his belly, searching over the rest of the crowd.

“All from a wink? Come now." Arcturus teased.

They found what they sought, it wasn't exactly hard to find her, if her children were trees, Fremra was a fortress in which all could gaze upon.

She was curled around the central tree on all fours, her beautiful teal scales warmed by the sun. Her scars were joined by numerous others, including a long, dark pink gash down her throat that had not fully healed. Her paws and wing talons were wrapped in bandages, including one side of her snout. If those things troubled her though, she showed no sign as she padded around, inspecting the bark of the ancient tree. Large flares of her nostrils were accompanied by hums and occasional taps with her claws.

With a singsong voice she issued orders to attendants that were spread about the broken structure, wrapped in robes and adorned in the many effigies of their faith. They gathered around large onyx pots of bubbling liquid, steam rising out of them like a multitude of snakes. The air here was thick with cinnamon, spices, and lemon. To some it might appear they were making tea, were it not for the chanting that they were doing. From their words came shimmering butterflies to dance around the air, of various shades of greens and teals. They exploded into gentle mists, delighting those that watched.

Fremra herself had four individuals upon her tail, a wolven woman, an elf and two humans. Looks of concern were on each of their faces as they carried close satchels of baskets and glass potions. At every turn of the dragoness' tail, words formed on their lips, no doubt spells ready. They wore symbols of Nutambar, Sartren and Fureen. Following this group was an elven woman clad in armor, armed to the teeth, Keerla and her human friend Jeriah. Together they looked to Fremra with expectant faces, while the dragoness completely ignored them.

Arcturus and Veledar approached, their arrival unnoticed as the busy dragoness padded on by, nearly smacking them with her tail.

“Lady Fremra, you should take it easy!" The wolven attendants uttered, “We can handle the rest of the ritual, you should be relaxing! Just look at you!"

“I have, since when has a little soreness ever kept me down?" She waggled a wing talon, “Certainly not enough to keep me lazing around. Look around Linda, all the smiling faces, the happy children!" Fremra smiled, her tail wiggling as if to a tune, “Besides, I have to fix my tree."

The black and grey furred wolven sighed, ears pinned, clearly having had this conversation with the larger dragoness multiple times, “You're not fully recovered, we can bring you back, massage your paws, we don't want to see you get hurt."

“Linda." Fremra chuckled with glee, giving the woman a smile, “I'm almost four hundred years old, and I think I know when I'm –“ She winced, catching a stray rock on the paw that caused her to shutter. She coiled and hissed, exposing her fangs.

“What did I tell you?" The wolven smirked, already digging out a potion. “But did you listen- “

“Not a word, not a word." Fremra thumped her tail, “It's merely a mild hiccup, a setback." She planted herself on her hinds, “Nor will it stop me." She groaned as several of the clerics cast their spells, laying hands upon her scales to sooth her aches. Her tail flicked as she grumbled her thanks.

“Course not. That would be smart." Linda mused, gesturing for the dragoness to lower her jaw and open her snout, “Just like when we told you to not keep pestering the harpies of the eastern shore with your music, I don't think we slept for a week after they tried to repay your music." When the dragoness did as she requested, the wolven dumped in a red liquid, massaging the scales as her snout wrinkled, “Just as stubborn as Storm ever was."

“That….was different." She groaned, pulling away to flick away the distaste of the potion, “Fine…I'll admit, I'm a different kind of stubborn." Snapping away with a snort she crossed her paws, “But if you're going to nag at me all day Linda you can just shut your snout." To Keerla and Jeriah who had yet to speak she waggled a paw, “And that goes double for you knights in shining armor, this courtyard and my home are for good cheer, spirits and festivities. We're no longer to have that sword buckling, teeth and talons that you bring."

Keerla groaned, the elven woman squeezing her brow, clearly this was not on her list of things to put up with today, “Dragon, there be pockets of undead still within your city. Our soldiers are clearing them out and the guardians here are as efficient as ever, but surely with your help we could have this be done in no time at all, yet all you wish to do is throw a good party?"

“My city? Since when was it my city?" Fremra rolled her eyes, tapping a talon to her snout, “Wasn't that right Linda, that days ago they didn't want my input? I do believe Threllfall made a fuss about it?"

“Precisely." Linda chuckled, getting Fremra's satisfied snort at the elf.

“You heard what she said."

Keerla groaned, “That doesn't seem like a fair point, the undead still threaten the city. Of which you're apart of!" She nudged the man next to her, “Jeriah, the green one liked you; you talk some sense into her!"

The man chuckled, “No, you seem to have a grasp on things."

Fremra rose her head with a soft growl, one meant only to warn. With attention upon her she thumped her tail, “Listen here you. My family and I have fought for weeks within these walls." She gestured with a wing to all around her, “We have bled, sweat, died to achieve this. Now we seek to heal, sooth the spirit, just as important as any battle or spear. So, if you wish to stay and help you may, but that is all. You fight your battles out there for the city, I shall win mine in here for those that remain." She added the final bit with a heavy snort, point made, “No more rawring about it, I have matters to attend to. Care for some tea?"

“Tea?" Laughed Jeriah when the dragoness gestured with her tail to the bubbling pots, “I thought it was some sort of magical potion! For the ritual!"

“Of course, it is, why can't it be both things?" She huffed, “You think tea can't be used for magical rituals?"

Keerla groaned and shook her head as the dragoness laughed, “You're impossible."

“I'll take that as a compliment. Though if you do try the tea, do let me know if you develop a rash, it is quite extraordinary of a concoction." Her frills flickered as she finally paid Arcturus and Veledar attention, “It would appear as though my guests have finally managed to untangle themselves from one another."

“And it would appear as though you trials have not dulled your humor. Nor hampered your ability to frustrate." Arcturus replied, beating back the teasing look she gave him.

“I wanted to take it on the road." Veledar grinned, chest swelling, “Since we are so good at it. But no." He rolled his eyes, “That was going mad."

“Mad?" Fremra laughed, then growled, advancing upon them like a cat. Head down her nostrils flared, she surged towards them. Her tail lashed as talons screamed against the stone, the towering figure looming overhead, in her lavender eyes was a storm yet to be contained. “I told you two to depart, to grab that orb and leave Struport for good. You were supposed to travel upon bloody mermaid out of here, seal Dreadflame a defeat."

Arcturus winced at hearing how they'd broken their word, even if the circumstances were dire. “Well you see- “

“And you tossed that all away to come back, face that horrid sack of wasted scales!"

“Well, we had a really good reason." Veledar began, only to catch a teal paw right upside the snout. “Hey!"

“And don't think you're out of this!" Fremra growled, doing the same to Arcturus.

The man rose his arms to shield himself, noting the tender care that she took to not crush or swat him to death. Still, the attacks she made against him were dull thwacks, fraught with flickers of occasional pain. She continued despite the snapping jaws and lingering hisses of his mate.

“Stop smacking me woman! Fremra!" Veledar snarled.

“Fremra!" Arcturus shouted.

The dragoness ceased her assault, turning scolding paws into tender nuzzles. Scales came with coos and rumbles, pressing into Arcturus' palm. It left him blinking. “It's something that I would have done, both of you, I'm ever so proud!"

“Proud?" Veledar was still, letting the dragoness rub her scales affectionately against his own. He blinked, “She's proud?"

“Evidently so." Laughed Arcturus when it was his turn again, getting a face full of teal nose, “Would you rather her be furious?"

“Furious Fremra? That I would like to see." Veledar grinned.

Fremra merely continued her sweet, tender warbles, filling the air with her affection. It only ended when she pulled back with a sniff, “For if you hadn't, I'm not quite sure myself or Jandar would be here. We only managed to spirit ourselves to Linda's tender paws."

“Of which we were happy to." Linda nodded with a smile and a wink, “What are friends for?"

“Indeed." Fremra nodded before averting her attention with a fluff of her wings and stretch of the hind, “So my favorite knight and his dragon, what brings you here to me from your passions? Is it the tree? That's almost done, or was it the snacks, the food, the tea?" she grinned, “I recommend all the jelly tarts wandering about, they are tasty, I like the ginger root ones. Just don't go after this lot." She whispered, gesturing to the Keerla with a paw, “They keep going on about responsibility and work." She gave them a fake sigh, “I wish they'd make up their mind about me helping."

“That's what you get for saving the city." Arcturus laughed as the dragoness slumped to her snout.

“Remind me to not do that all the time."

“I'll do it." Veledar stood proudly, rolling a paw to his chest.

“So, you wish for all the paperwork that goes with it?" Fremra rose a brow.

Veledar wrinkled his snout, “Gods no."

“Fremra, could you not speak ill of us while we're here?" Keerla protested, “Our points are valid."

They got a paw to the face, shielding them.

“They really can't help it." Fremra laughed, “Nor take a hint!"

“Bloody dragons!" Keerla yelled, “You're all stubborn and lazy!"

“Mostly stubborn and lazy." Snorted the dragoness, “But that's when you get all the fun anyway."

“So." She creeped her snout closer to the paladin with a snort, “If not for the trees or the tea, one does wonder what brought you."

“Sure, don't need a minute?" Arcturus asked, gesturing to her back. “We could always."

“Nonsense!" They'll eventually get tired, take some gifts and leave.

“Right. Well its good to see you holding up after the ordeal." He eyed her scar, how it traveled all the way down. She caught him staring.

“Oh, this old thing? Took much worse with a harpoon." She grinned, “All that Dreadflame did was dent my harp. Which, jokes on him, that only gave it character." Her eyes closed as she folded her paw, “Thing doesn't even play any different. There will be jokes over this that will last forever, so who really won our battle?" She confidently rolled a paw to her chest.

She always was the odd one, spirits never dowered even in a time such as this. It had the paladin matching her effort, gesturing to his legs. “There was a spiritual matter that needed attending to."

“Of your sudden dragon transformation?" Without prompting she plucked Arcturus off his dragon's back, despite the red's snarl. “Oh shush," She batted the red, “I mean him no harm. Besides," Her eyes twinkled with interest as she carefully lifted Arcturus to her snout. She sniffed, “He doesn't smell different. Just more human mixed with dragon, and the suspicious smell of prestidigitation."

Veledar chuckled, “He didn't want to stink of me."

“But stinking of your mate is half the fun Arcturus! We need to really talk to you about dragon customs!"

The knight blushed, pressing at her laughing snout, “I'd rather skip that one actually, focus on the problem. Mainly that my body doesn't know how to walk. It keeps wanting to go on all fours."

“Perhaps it finally decided to prefer the dragon form?" She teased, eyes raising, “Since you're so enamored."

“Not likely."

“Suit yourself." She shrugged, before giving the reluctant man a great big lick.

“Hey!" He sputtered, “I didn't say lick!"

She bombarded him with several more, each accompanied with a deep, satisfied rumble, “Come now, you don't taste different either. And I thought you'd be used to dragon tongues by now."

“You'd think." He groaned as she laid down on her back, resting him on her orange belly. He moved the spit slick hair out of his vision, getting two, throaty rumbles of the dragons in return, “I'm so glad both of you find this so amusing."

“It is yes." She nodded. “But do go on about this dragon thing?"

So, with a sigh, he explained the scenario with Bahamut, how they'd defeated dreadflame and he'd supposedly become a dragon. It still felt strange on the tongue, as though it were happening to someone else. “Veledar thinks there is still power within, waiting to be tapped."

“Of which I hope." Veledar planted himself at their side, “Otherwise what was the point?"

“The universe doesn't have to conform to your need Veledar."

“Well, it should."

Fremra on the other claw was tapping her snout, gears turning between her horns over what she'd been told. Her eyes then lit up, “Oh this is wonderful if so. Then you can apply all our lessons at the isle of Draconis that you sat in on first paw!"

“I thought that as well." Veledar nodded as Arcturus could only shake his head and groan.

“But the question is, if this spark within remains, how do we ignite it, give it shape?"

“I suppose test it?" Arcturus winced thinking to what Krotos had told him about Nivra. He doubted Fremra's tests would be as invasive, or that he'd lose his hair, but he had the sneaking suspicion they might be utterly ridiculous and his pride would be not intact by their end. One thing was certain, by the hungry look in her eye, he was not getting out of whatever was forming in her head.

“I think, to be careful, we need to get you two to the isle of Draconis." Fremra sighed, placing her paws together, her tail humping, “Then we can feel free to test, prod and experiment to our hearts content, doesn't that sound like fun?"

“The island? How come not out there?"

“Think Arcturus!" She laughed, “Do you know exactly what triggers it? Can it be triggered? Imagine if it was a sneeze, a hiccup, a weird feeling! Picture yourself helping some old woman, making a cake, eating your breakfast and then boom-" She spread her paws, “Right big dragon, not embarrassing."

“What if it was sex?" Veledar cocked his head with a lewd growl.

“Yes, even that!"

“It isn't that." Groaned Arcturus, squeezing the bridge of his nose, “At least I hope it's not."

“Well, we won't know till we try." Fremra sighed, settling her head down with a warble, eyes closed, “Oh, it just tickles the scales, makes me all tingly, I could almost sing."

“I suppose there are worse fates than to be forced to spend days on a tropical island."

“Forced? Come now Arcturus, I thought as my pupil you'd like it!"

“Your pupil?" He rose a brow as she rumbled, “When did this happen?"

“You were with us every paw step of the way." She flicked her tail, “Face it, you won't be getting rid of me anytime soon."

“Wonderful. Though I suppose it's for the best."

“And we can work on the bond…the temple...Oh I can't wait to get there!"

“Fremra" Jeriah protested.

“Hush now darlings!"

The dragoness returned Arcturus to his dragon, before shifting herself to all fours. The two guardians she briefly gestured away, fixing her attentions to the forgotten tree. All around her the attendants called, signaling that her ritual was ready to be performed. They of course stressed they could do it on their own, but the wily dragoness merely snorted and rolled her eyes.

“Fear not my friends, I have this right in my paws." As they groaned she held her head high, “Though if you wish to sooth my scales of any aches and pains later be my guests. I do ever love a pampering." She wiggled her tail, “Oh, and then I play with your hairs!" With a sweep of her wings, Arcturus and Veledar were whisked away as easily as Jeriah and Keerla.

Fremra paused, purpose on her brow as she faced down the broken tree of her family. The one that had been there for her children, to scratch claws and play around. Her tail twitched and seeing its malformed mass of splinters, scars soon to be forgotten. The dragoness bouncing on her paws was gone with a breath, purpose filling her scaled limbs. To her attendants she gave a solemn nod, signaling them to begin their chants. It was a musical affair, of words rising and falling. They shook incense, performed elaborate dances as people watched on with reverence.

“Dreadflame tried to dismantle us, defeat us, tear down foundation that we hold dear. He used deceit, struck at our hearts, was determined to leave a blight." She took a deep breath, as strands of lavender magic began to gather around her horns, it warmed the air shimmered and pulsed like a heartbeat. “But that will soon be swept away." She steadied her stance, summoning words of draconic power to her lips. When she spoke, it carried the light of the sun, filling hearts around with hope. Even Arcturus found himself spellbound as she waved a paw through the air, bringing with it ribbons of light.

All sound fell away to leave room for what was to come. Around the tree earth began to rise like double helixes, they spread around like grass, creatin upon broken limbs of branch. They started to pull and twist and bring what was broken together. The defiled tree shook, gave a labored groan as aid was given to it. It trembled and rose as if on strings waking up from an old nap. Splinters gathered together, heartwood was stitched anew, cracks in bark were pressed and sealed away, forgotten with a flash of light.

Fremra continued to chant and demand, a puppeteer of the wind.

Creaking, groaning, the tree planted itself back to it's home. Bark radiated with a soft white light, exuding the scent of the forest. Sunlight shimmered off it's leaves that began to sprout as if spring had returned. In a breath its damage had been undone, Fremra stood proud, taking in her work.

Cheers came from the crowds at such a display, like a last stab at Dreadflame's darkness.

“That is all fine and dandy." Keerla glared, soiling the mood, “But let's discuss the missing of missing Lady Lyndis!"

That couldn't be it could it? Veledar stared out to the cloud filled sky, disbelief hanging on his tongue over the tale being spun by Lyndis' associates. One where she escaped the clutches of her mother, became queen, rallied all the peoples and set forth to gather the Siigonis into their alliance. His paws shifted as word came from a siigonis she'd traveled with, Broxl of the forest clan. He spoke of the great dragoness Queen of Eternal flame on his rogue's paws, a sister to Dreadflame. There had no been word since, and the worst course had been feared.

Air upon his scales seemed a ghost as the dragon tried to quell the shiver snaking down his spine. How could she and Cordenth survive against such a beast, one that could, as he imagined, rival Dreadflame in power? He and Arcturus had only managed to down the creature thanks to luck, divine intervention and lots of help. Lyndis only had her green scaled companion to count on, and he was an idiot! He huffed with a growl, realizing that wasn't fair. Cordenth meant well, he'd have done anything to defend his love, probably fight tooth and talon to the end, just as he would do for Arcturus. It made the crimson dragon swallow hard, was he to lose everyone else?

He ignored the prattle and debate that came from the others as they discussed what the future of Drenedar might mean. Sure, Struport had been saved, but it now lacked a leader, desperately needed someone to take the reins. Veledar only kept a fleeting glance to Arcturus, who, was putting on a brave face before the others, but inside the dragon could feel the fractured emotions through him.

“Oh you silly rogue." Veledar mumbled to himself, drifting to the day that he and Lyndis first did meet, upon the plains, she pursued by bandits. He chortled in a mournful way; it was hard to believe that such an encounter would set him on this path. One where he met Arcturus, had this grand adventure, faced off with the spawn of a demi-god! Yet as he built this legend between his horns he could only be hallow and still, none of it seemed to matter, everyone else kept withering away.

How many ghosts of the past would come to haunt him? Touch his life and leave him weak and trembling when they departed? The dragon trembled as he thought to his mother, the great silver dragon that had saved his life so many years ago. Lyndis, Merlia, Shandalar, Storm, all of them leaving their mark on the dragon's soul, each a weight to drag him down. As he sighed he could sense Arcturus' want to comfort him, but the man was busy with the others.

Should he not be more grateful? Be honored that he and so many survived? Veledar stretched his wings, letting the blood warm them, if he were not such a good mate he'd carry himself to the sky and cast away his troubles. He'd surge through the air, losing his troubles. He remained, a concerned mate for Arcturus, looking at his paws and wanting more. Was that so wrong?

It hardly seemed fair, to only have Arcturus left of his original group. The mortals that had carried him to his quest and beyond. Their laughter, good cheer and stories all warming the dragon's heart, filling his days and nights with memories he'd cherish. It had let him emerge as something grander than a scared dragon in his home, waiting for destiny to take him. He sighed, realizing that in his pursuit, the others had withered and perished, was that the fate for those that clung to him? If so, how long until the others were taken away, by some cruel weapon or time itself? Tilting his head he searched the man he loved, feeling a cold thread between he and him, how long until he was nothing but a memory as well? He was just as fragile as any mortal was.

“Troubled is the mind of the great hero?" Fremra had slunk from Keerla and Jeriah, leaving Arcturus and a handful of others to continue their discussion. The dragoness had her head lowered, eyes brimming with warmth, and of course she didn't respect the red dragon's boundaries. Her scales soon met his despite a protested hiss, gently rubbing along the length of his form.

“Course I am. How could I not?" He replied with a growl, giving her a half-hearted bat of his paw, he couldn't shift her and she knew it. “You heard them, despite our victory here, Lyndis and Cordenth are dead."

“That's funny, I thought they said they were missing." Replied the dragoness, planting her hinds beside him, tail curling around him. “Similar I know, but vastly different."

“You know what that means. That dragoness was said to be as powerful as Dreadflame, ruled over the undead. I'm in no mood for your games."

“Shame, since everyone loves my games." She sighed, licking one of her paws, “They tantalize the mind, sooth the soul, it's just that I've seen the look on your snout plenty of times in my years. It's not good to be in that place."

He thumped his tail, unwilling to look as she cleaned her paws. “Is now the best time for that?"

“Always a time for it, have you seen my paws?" She waggled one to him, “Someone needed to lick it." She rose a brow, “Are you volunteering…or perhaps Arcturus."

“Fremra." He flared his frills with a snarl, startling a group of children dancing by. As they scampered away he snorted and diverted his attention, “We have our victory but I feel hallow. What was the point of it all?"

She didn't say anything for a time, as Veledar hung his head and breathed deep and slow. With a soft warble the dragoness nuzzled at his cheek, unconcerned with passerby's interested eyes. “There is always a point, even if it's not yet seen."

“And here I remain." He huffed, “Sitting upon my success, a legend made in my name. Look around you, the halls whisper with my and Arcturus deeds!" He sprung up, the words all too familiar, promised to his brother all those years ago. “They will make dolls, books, tapestries, sing stories for all time!"

“Probably. I did encourage them."

“I will be known throughout the land, Arcturus as well, everything I've wanted is laid bare at my paws!" His heart stretched, “I should be grateful, honored that I have finally gotten what is due me." The certainty of the words died as he searched her lavender pools, leaving him weaker, drained, lesser. The red dragon snapped away with a growl, “And yet, I desire more."

“More prestige? More treasure?" She went to laugh as their typical game, but one harsh look and she stilled her tongue. The dragoness nodded, knowing what he meant, “Don't we all desire to hold onto those we care for Veledar. It's alright to desire this."

“Yes, but why should I?" He clenched his paw, the claws gleaming in the light, “It seems all rather pointless in the end to grow attached to such creatures. To touch upon me with such fleeting lives, create threads that will only ever leave me weakened and wounded." He trembled, “Even now, I struggle to hold my head high, I feel sick, I wish to fall upon these stones and break."

“All of this for the city?" She asked softly, “I'm astounded you care so- “

“Not the city, my companions." He snarled, thumping his tail. “They deserved so much more…I deserved so much more. It hardly seems fair in the end." With a deep breath he tried to still his aching heart, but it failed just as the times before. He was left trembling, thoughts scattered, “Why would Bahamut curse us so, to experience this pain? To have mortals only come into our lives for such short times and then leave? Is it worth it to experience it?"

She sighed, “Veledar, it is alright to experience this pain. The weight upon your wings, it's no wonder that you question things, wish to not be harmed, it's only natural. When I lost my mate and my wrymlings many years ago, I felt as though I could not go on." She hung her head, frills pinning, “It is hard to imagine this as anything but weakness, but it is strength."

“Strength?" He countered, paws trembling. “How can this be strength, all it does it give me pause, doubt everything, leave me aching till I can't stand it. It's a sickness."

“And that is life. That you feel this way, the great chasm within, only because you shared great joy." She gestured to the grand tree they'd risen, where upon inspecting closer, revealed carvings of years she'd shared. Images lovingly pressed into the bark of dragons, mortals, weddings, births, recorded for all time. She paused on one, tapping a talon on what was clearly Ramakox, regal and proud. “Should you not focus on that? How your life was touched? It's okay to break Veledar, its what makes us who we are, changes us, allow us to empathize." She took a deep breath, hiding her soft whimper, “I ask of you, if we surround ourselves with the undying, the long lived, shield ourselves from such dangers, we might grow apart, think we're better, never know the plight of those we share our lives with. We might grow cold, distant, not what we should be."

“Should be?"

“You know these in your paws, Bahamut wished us to be with them, to teach them yes, but that is not only the way. We were supposed to learn things from them as well, not lord over them as masters. They have loves, take passions with what time they have, experience loss and the breath of emotion so vast that we have to be held in awe. We can learn about ourselves in them, accommodate them, fold their stories into our own. Even though it might frighten you, threatened to leave you drained, the breaking is what builds us, scale by scale, guiding us to the future." She trailed off as Veledar approached the elder bark, eyes traveling over the markings, it was as she said. He spied countless mortals, their stories spread out from the dragoness' own. They had contributions, stories, their loved ones, children and light.

“Each one was a unique light within my scales, that touched me in untold ways. Their songs became part of my own, their life was entrusted to me. I walked with them, loved with them, saw their children born. I shared stories, magic, shook when they were broken." She rose her head to the sky, picturing all these before her eyes, a sad smile upon her snout, “I've never shied away from each passing, such is the way. I'll never forget them as long as I draw breath, it was an honor to have known them. And for that Veledar? I'd never trade it for an instant."

Her words were well intentioned, but were bitter sweet to his troubled mind. He sighed, unable to look her in the eye, his tail flicked over hers, “Little comfort this does, to say I should cherish them." He groaned as she nudged him with a gentle, warble.

“It will pass as all things do; the pain is fresh. It's important to never forget the dragon that you are now. That all you are is built on those that came before. It allowed you to open your heart to Arcturus, share in his empathy, connect with him deeper than you thought possible." She pulled back, “Would you have robbed yourself of this moment, or what has happened?"

“Of course not." He growled; eyes steeled.

“Then you understand." She patted Storm's marking, “Even with their passing, they touch on us, inspire us to greatness. They will be with you every pawstep, even if you can't see them. I'm sure that if they were here, they'd be proud of all that you have done."

With her going on, it was not hard to drift off, stare to the human that he adored. There was a smile that was shared between them, a promise that things were going to be ok. The tiny gesture lit a spark within the dragon's scales, massaged away doubt and despair. It made his tail flick, a rumble build in his throat, if that were not magic he knew not what was. In their future he imagined nights of closeness, sharing hobbies, testing at one another limits. There were squabbles, kisses, and even moments of divine serenity. It made his blood sing, almost casting away the ghostly image of Lyndis leaning up upon his scales.

“Know the look, smitten all the way to the hells." Laughed the rogue, brushing her bangs from her almond eyes. As the dragon tilted his head in surprise, she only punched his scales, “Might ruin the image of the strong heroic dragon that you're going for."

He snorted in amusement, not even questioning how this apparition was before him. “Every grand dragon needs their comforts and passions, Arcturus is mine. Surprised you say something so foolish my half-elven friend."

“Isn't that scary." She chortled, leaning up against his scales, arms crossed, admiring Arcturus like a treasured friend. “Big ole scaled beast like you, wonder of freedom, hooking up with a steel dressed dolt like that with a spear up his butt."

“I simply replaced it with another." He nibbled at her hair, getting a laugh and swat at his nose.

“That you did! Is that how the story is going to go? How the grand Veledar galivanted across the realm, inspired all the peoples to fight against the great Dreadflame, seduced the dragon hunter Lund and took him as his mate?"

“That doesn't sound all that bad. However you're forgetting about all the help I got along the way."

“You're sharing now?" Her eyes widened, before thrusting a finger between his flaring nostrils, “You have gone mad."

He shrugged, “Though I admit my greatness has carried us far, it wasn't the only strength." There was a pause as he beheld Lyndis, the brightness in her eyes, the one he'd wished to see. He held his head, nuzzling at her cheek, her touch was bittersweet, “I won't forget what you'd done for me. How you put my head on straight, brought me back to Arcturus."

“I owed you one, figured I'd give you a present." She massaged his jaw, hair ruffling from his gentle chuffs, “Did I tell you I stole a horse for him and he scolded me?"

The dragon chuckled into her cheek, his eyes growing misty, “That certainly sounds like him."

“Just don't forget, when you're off, hugging on one another, smiling and living life, that you remember me alright?" The words came with a clever smirk, as if this were just another game.

“You think I wouldn't?" He growled, “I'll never cease speaking of the queen that threatened to kick me in the dick."

“Damn right I would have!" She laughed.

“And was one of my greatest friends. That I wish she had more time." He pressed softly forward as words soon failed him, to her he gave a tender lick, knowing it would be their last. She smiled and started to fade away, drifting up to the winds themselves. Veledar watched on, tears in his eyes.

“Oh, so now you're going to get to weepin now? Like a wee red baby?" Merlia's voice came from his side, the dwarf nursing a weathered tankard. Her cheeks were flushed, skin scuffed, her clothing tattered at every inch. “If I knew you were going to be a blubberin mess when I died, I'd never have bothered!"

“And what would you call this?" Veledar rolled his eyes, pressing the laughing dwarf with a paw, “Do I see that reveling in Valhalla pales in comparison to my company? I mean, I expected as much, but I'm surprised you'd reveal it."

“What?" Her brow furrowed, eyes steeling as the dragon chuckled in amusement, “Course not ya smug, arrogant beastie! Just came to shake some sense inta ya before your weeping ruined my revelry!"

He searched her up and down, a well hidden smirk upon her lips. The dragon huffed and averted his gaze, “If that's all, I suppose you can depart?"

Merlia swallowed the last of her tankard in one, long gulp. She wiped away the foam, before letting loose a powerful burp. “That not be the only reason I suppose."

“You don't say." He flicked his tongue, getting a swat on the nose.

“Got to hear what ya going to say about me. The ole Merlia Gallogalar, the master ranger, explorer of the realms, kicker of balls, slayer of knees!"

“That's quite the long title, are you sure you want all that?"

“Better than Crimson Sky!" She huffed, fishing out of her pockets a slender pipe, “It's just a bunch of clouds and light, it's terrible!"

“Ball kicker?" He rose a brow with a laugh, “How is that any better?"

She gave him a grin, “Really stokes the fear that one does."

He stilled his tongue as she filled the air with pipe smoke and satisfied sighs, pulling at strands how to remember the foul-mouthed, bombastic dwarf that drove him to wits end.

“So, got anything? Or are ya going to make me die of old age."

“I think, that I will take a claw from you." He grinned, “That all shall know the dwarf that got under my scales at every opportunity. Quick with an insult, faster to anger, she wielded a blur of arrow filled carnage across Sethera. Her tongue, one of her many weapons laughed in the face of danger, even those that would cause grown men to piss themselves." He rolled a paw as he described her antics, even seeking to skewer his bum on numerous occasions, “And that despite this legendary dwarf, I wished to do nothing more than gnaw on her haunches at every opportunity."

For a moment she paused, mulling over his words, then held her belly as she tossed back her head and laughed, “And don't forget got you you're human to love!"

Right, she had.

“If not for me, he'd have been all confused, worried about what to do. He's a dragon he said, blessed be, but don't you worry Veledar, I did set him straight." She tapped the dragon on the snout with a smile as he warbled, “And I bet you wanted a piece of me behind. It's a good one."

“And she was a treasured friend." He said softly, gracing her hair with a tender nuzzle. When she stilled her tongue and huffed, the burning cheeks were music to his scales. He could see the turmoil within her, that need to rebuff him, call him a baby, but he beat it away with his rumbles. In the end the dwarf surrendered with a sigh, leaning into his affections.

“Fine, ya get this one. But don't say I don't do nothing for ya."

“Course not."

“And don't be tellin people bout this!"

“Should I instead tell them how you gushed and cooed over Arcturus' and my relationship instead?"

She held up a finger, brow furrowed, “That be different."

“Course it is." He replied, “But I offer no such promises, I'll tell whomever I wished, whatever. I might even tell them you fancied to kiss me…Or my behind."

No sooner had he spoken the words than her fury had been unleashed. Merlia was a tempest that would ravage the land. Her skin flushed redder than his scales, hands balled to fists, her tankard was lost as she hurled it aside. He warbled at all the multitude of insults, many aimed at his pride and scales, he paid them no mind.

“And don't be sayin that again, else I'll be hauntin ya till the end of your days!"

He smirked, giving the impression he didn't care as he averted his snout, “It's my story, I'll tell it how I wish. You can just sit there and sputter." He pat her on the head for good measure, her snarl music to his ears.

“You're making a fool of me."

“Only because I'm fond of you." He gave her an honest warble, drawing in close to give her the perfect shot. He imagined she'd strike at him, curse his name, announce a never ending grudge, instead he was left frills fluttering as she gave him a smirk and kissed him on the snout.

“THERE." She announced with a brassy laugh, smacking her belly, “Ya got yer kiss, ya happy now?"

He chortled, “It's not the kiss of a queen or princess I suppose but it will do."

“Oh, now it's not good enough for you?"

“Nonsense." He snatched her up in his paws, warbling as she didn't try to resist. He held her close against his scaled chest, trembling as her cheek met his. He knew deep down this was not her, but it helped sooth the ache lurking beneath his scales. “I'll never forget you."

“Aye, never will I." She replied softly, cheek on his chest, “Take care o Arcturus for me."

“I promise."

She vanished with but a breath, leaving the dragon's paws empty and cold. For a moment he paused, heart stretching to the horizon as he fell back on all fours. Tears threatened to fall from his snout, but he kept them in check. All of this was in his mind after all, which would explain the reserved elf currently giving him a stern look.

“Even you?" He asked softly to the brown robed mage, it of course was Shandalar, her long hair neat and maintained.

“Yes of course me. I am a figment of your mind to ease your pain." Replied the mage as she folded her hands neatly behind her, “I can say whatever you're thinking, but I believe you just want me to say that I'll miss you."

“Will you?"

“If you need me to say it then of course I will, but that doesn't change the fact this is all within the confines of your mind."

He groaned, dismissing her, of course she'd annoy him in his thoughts. “Well, I'll keep you in my mind as well, you didn't deserve to die how you did. You can have my name, Veledar."

“Again." She sighed, “I'm not real." With a roll of the dragon's eyes she vanished, bursting into nothing but mist.

He blinked his eyes, the moments he'd witnessed like a dream. There was a haze about his head, trickling down to his paws. He could have sworn that they were they, bringing him comfort in these moments. Sapphire pools swelled with tears, only to be wiped away by his wing.

“So here you have the time together with him." Fremra spoke, gesturing to the paladin that captivated Veledar so, “As he is your strength so will you be his. Laugh, share in one another, be merry." She tilted her head with glint of mischief on her snout, “Who knows, if he does have the ability to turn into a dragon, who knows what other secrets we might find out. He might not be as frail as you think."

Perking up, he tilted his head, “Know something I don't?"

“Perhaps." She mused, flicking her tail.

“You're not going to tell me?"

“Where would be the fun in that? The sense of discovery, the mystery? I'd not damper it."

“Fremra, you can't be serious." He laid a firm paw on her flank, eyes narrowed as she turned to him with all her teeth revealed in a grin.

“What?" She licked his nose, “You think that I shall give you everything upon a platter? How presumptuous of you, or arrogant?" She pulled back, paw on her snout, “Either way the answer is no."

Curse her laughing snout, it was hard to believe that wisdom ever pooled from her maw.

“But don't think I won't be of help. I do think we have an isle of draconis to frolic and roll in the fields as we explore these new circumstances?"

“We're not done?" He rose a brow.

She tossed her head, “You think that after a single month of Drahkra training that's all I could teach you?"

He took a deep breath.

“The answer you're looking for was no." To his snout she laid a single paw, an evil chuckle in the deep of her throat, “Face it my crimson pupil, you're stuck with me." She batted her eyes, “How lucky for you."

Fine, let her win this little bout. Veledar bit his tongue, stewing in the knowledge that one day he'd find out what little mystery she had locked within her horns. For now he'd keep his fallen friends close to his heart, never let their stories fade from his, he'd ensure the light they touched upon him would never be wasted. He'd live for them, keep his head high, focus on the man that he loved. He averted his attention to Arcturus, taking in the man's glowing features.

He would be the knight's prize, a loving mate to endure through the harshest of times. They'd lean on one another, grow ever closer, there would be nothing that would tear them apart. What shadows lingered from their pasts were over, it was now time to build their future. The paladin smiled and Veledar's heart swooned, he knew he was the luckiest dragon in this world. He swelled his chest and began to strut, going to kiss that man right in front of everyone. Who cared it ruined his regal image, all shall know that he, Crimson Sky, adored this man than anything else. He chuckled, knowing his mother would have loved it.

However, just as things liked to transpire against him, his advance was stopped by a shout around the keep. Guardians young and old parroted it, announcing that a floating castle had just arrived past Struport's walls.

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

Thank you guys for following along in this journey! This ends the part with Arcturus and Veledar for some time now. If I was to publish this book, Arcturus and Veledar parts would have been alternating with Lyndis/Cordenth. So we shall be returning to them to finish that part of the story and see what fate has in store for her, Infinity, Cordenth and Lyyreth!

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