FSE

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Chapter 16

“Do you honestly believe her?” Asked Veledar the moment he and the others gave one another a look. They’d just spent the better half of a hour listening to Natasa’s plight of how Lyndis had been captured by Lumarian soldiers. It seems farcical that Lyndis, their skilled and agile rogue, was captured in such a manner. Hadn’t he seen to only taking on the best of help, had she not proclaimed her skills were of the highest quality? The dragon stewed, unease shifting within his feathery gut, the air silent. If this were true, it would mean her life would be in great danger.

“Her dishonorable deeds proceed her, making her virtue more elusive than her pilfered treasures. She is but a treacherous shadow, skulking in the darkness of deceit and moral decay.” Asterion growled, giving the gryphoness a death glare, “I’d not trust her as far as I can drag her entrails.”

“That’s a messed-up way of saying that.” Krotos’ ears pinned.

“I don’t care.” The minotaur crossed his arms with a snort.

Arcturus caressed his beard, worry flickering across his emerald pools, “I don’t see or hear any deception within her.” His brow furrowed, “I fear what she speaks the truth. If that is the case, our path is clear.” Taking a deep breath he lowered his head, stealing himself, “We must go after her.”

“Hold for a moment.” Asterion huffed, eyes aflame, “Shall we truly rely on the words of this deceitful wretch and forsake the opportunity to claim my scroll and your dragon's treasure? Has sanity eluded you human?”

“And what do you suggest? If this information is true, we’d be leaving one of our own with my people’s tender mercy.” He rose a brow, “Unless you’d rather pray that she’ll be meeting us at the rendezvous point?”

The cleric crossed his arms, “If what is said is true, she deserves everything that falls at her feet for her dishonorable nature.”

"Ye spineless, thick-skulled oaf! Turnin ' yer back on a companion 'cause ye can't see past yer own snout?” Merlia’s face burned, contorting into pure hate, "Ach, she'd come chasin' after yer sorry hide if yer life was on the line!"

Asterion stood resolute, his gaze unyielding, "A brave facade cannot mask a deceitful heart. Her loyalty wavers like a reed in the wind. We must tread cautiously, for trusting her might be our undoing."

"Ye may have a mind sharp as a spoon, but even ye, you walking carpet, should know that turnin' a blind eye don't make ye righteous. Stop actin' like a book without pages and let's show some backbone, for once!"

“Is it fear that holds you in its sway, branding you a coward in the face of a companion in need?” Asked Arcturus, his words a threat that rested upon their air. They had the intended effect, focusing the flames within the minotaur’s gaze towards him instead.

His tail lashed, "Speak not of cowardice, lest you provoke a response you cannot withstand. My actions are guided by honor, not fear. Question my bravery again, and you shall find the limits of my restraint tested."

Veledar placed himself at Arcturus’ side, this had gone on long enough. His gaze, hard as stone fixed itself upon Asterion, the gryphon’s feathers bristling with fury. Ears flattened against his head as his tuft tail lashed against the ground, kicking up a cloud of dust. "The arrogance of a mere mortal!" he snarled, the fury in his voice matched only by the fire in his eyes. "Let my warning be clear: every step you take shall be under my vigilant watch. Should you dare to threaten what is mine, not even the farthest corners of this realm will shield you from tearing you apart!"

Faced with all the determination opposed to him, Asterion averted his gaze. It would seem as though he wasn’t going to be getting what he wanted, and he knew it, “Human, you are lucky that your lapdog is here to fight your battles.”

Arcturus wasn’t one to be provoked, "You know I am capable of such. Align yourself or depart, seeking your own way for this scroll of yours," he stated firmly, his gaze unwavering. "I shall not bargain the life of a companion for mere riches. Is my position clear?"

For a fleeting moment, Veledar sensed the brewing storm within the cornered minotaur, his fists tightening like coiled serpents. Tension thickened the air, every muscle in anticipation. It all culminated in a sharp snort, as Asterion's defiance yielded to the unyielding truth. “It will be your funeral.”

"About time someone here had the stones to do what's right!" Merlia grinned, slapping Arcturus on the back. “Couldn’t have said it better meself laddie, now let's not waste another second jawin'! We've got a princess to save, and by the gods, we'll bring her back, come hell or high water!"

“She’s a princess?” Squawked Krotos in alarm, looking mortified as his ears pinned, “Oh gods I offered to take a princess to pound town.”

In a matter of time, the group gathered their equipment, donning armor, and readying weapons. Veledar pulled Arcturus aside during this time, his nerves trembling, a stone resting in his gut, the quest for his book seemingly unraveling before his eyes. “Can you explain yourself?” He hissed to the man.

“I’m getting Lyndis back, what does it look like?” Countered Arcturus.

"Seems like you're ready to abandon my treasure," Veledar hissed, his tone sharp with discontent. "I detest even considering Asterion's stance, but perhaps he has a point. Who's to say this opportunity will present itself again? You're asking me to jeopardize my brother's legacy for someone I've scarcely known for a month or-"

"By the gods, we are indebted to her. And so are you," Arcturus declared, his voice ringing with conviction. He pointed a finger at Veledar's beak, eyes flashing with intensity. "She's stood by us, by your side, through thick and thin. Are you truly ready to barter away those who have made this journey possible, who have aided you every step of the way?"

The air hung heavy with contemplation, yet Arcturus wasted no time allowing the moment to linger.

"You're afraid, I understand," Arcturus murmured softly, his hands gently caressing the dragon's beak as he drew him closer.

“I’m not afraid.” Countered Veledar with a chirp.

The man withdrew slightly, locking eyes with Veledar. "I made a vow to return that book to you. Please, trust in me. I will accomplish this," his voice softened. "But I refuse to sacrifice lives to achieve it. We're capable of more than that, and you..." He gently caressed Veledar's cheek. "...are too."

The dragon grappled with inner turmoil, tempted to emphasize the importance of his treasures, yet in the depths of those emerald eyes, his resolve softened, yearning for the flames of pride to ignite. "As you wish," he grumbled, retracting, "But expect a hefty rescue fee for this, I shall ensure it."

"Excellent," Arcturus chuckled, a glint of reassurance in his eye. "You're in luck, she happens to be a princess and can afford it." He patted the gryphon's shoulder with a friendly grin. "Let's go reclaim her, shall we?"

** * * * * * * * *

Beneath the cloak of darkness, the group took flight amid the thick clouds. Arcturus, tightly grasping Veledar's feathers, rode atop the gryphon, lacking the grandeur of the dragon's true form but serving them well enough. Merlia, accompanied by Krotos, had no qualms about accepting the dwarf's assistance, although some convincing was required for Gus to comprehend their sudden departure. Asterion, too weighty for the gryphons to bear, remained behind.

Despite their ability to fly directly to their destination, the looming vigilance of the soldiers compelled them to remain concealed within the shadows. Huddled closely to the numerous structures, they relied on the darkness as a faithful ally. The damp, clinging air enveloped them as the minutes slipped by, leaving behind a persistent whisper of trepidation, hinting at the possibility of an impending trap.

When they finally came to where Lyndis had been snatched, it had already been close to an hour. The group landed in an alley across from the other, careful to make sure their talons upon the stone didn’t alert the guards they could see going about their patrols. As the two leggers dismounted they crept into the darkness’ embrace, looking upon the other alley with reservation.

True to Arcturus's earlier warning, the guards were diligent at their posts. A group of at least six of them conversed, their senses sharp in the late hours. Both humans and gryphons alike donned leather and chains, armed to the hilt, poised for battle should it come their way. Overhead, the fluttering of wings indicated another patrol was diligently performing its nocturnal duties.

“I wonder if that’s Clotho’s group.” Muttered Krotos under his breath, watching the gryphons pass overhead.

“Friends of yours?” Merlia asked.

“Coworkers.” His ears pinned, “We’ll have to be careful, they have good eyes, excellent ears and a handsome rum- “

Arcturus closed the gryphon’s beak with a hand, “Keep your mind to task.”

“Right.” Chuckled the gryphon.

Veledar's beak clicked with frustration, attempting to mask the rising dread within. "See there, the bird spoke true," he grumbled, the bitterness seeping into his words. "Unless your guards find joy in inspecting every alley come nightfall."

"Plenty o' shady business can be brewin' there, lad," Merlia chortled. "Who's to say if they ain't a bit corrupted themselves."

"Not under my watch," Arcturus retorted firmly. "I would never allow such a thing."

Natassa rolled her eyes at the assertion. "Either way, dear, they find themselves in our path. Those fools are likely nosing about, hoping to snare a few more unsuspecting mice."

"Mice, indeed?" Veledar huffed, his sapphire gaze flashing with indignation. "More akin to falcons, soaring high above their petty games."

"Aye, that's the spirit! Too grand for these little mice and their games, aren't we?" Merlia chortled, pulling free her bow.

Arcturus knelt in the darkness; his gaze fixed on the guards. "Only six and another patrol," he murmured. "With the element of surprise, this should be a straightforward encounter."

Krotos splayed his ears, shifting on his hinds.

“Something the matter?” Veledar asked.

“Most of them are just doing their jobs. To them, Lyndis is just another criminal they caught.” The gryphon’s blue ears pinned to his head, “Let’s not go pounding their asses too hard.”

Merlia sighed, “Bah, you’re no fun lad, I at least wanted a scuffle.”

"Enjoyment aside, his point stands," Arcturus said, placing a hand on Krotos's shoulder. "We're here for information, not bloodshed." He cast a reassuring glance at the about-to-speak dragon. "Shouldn't pose much of a challenge for the likes of us."

"Bah, where's yer sense o' fun, lad?" Merlia grumbled, stowing her bow. "So, what's the plan? Talk 'em to death? Or send in our blue-feathered friend for a bit o' distraction? Maybe he can put on a frilly dress and dance about."

"I could simply knock them out," Veledar declared with pride. "A good pounding to send them to dreamland." He exhaled heavily. "But I'll hold back my strength, make sure they keep breathing." As Krotos clacked his beak, the dragon rolled his eyes. "I did say keep them alive, are your ears stuffed?"

"Ah, keep 'em alive and keep 'em quiet," Merlia scoffed, a hint of doubt coloring her voice. "Let us hope yer version of gentle doesn't leave 'em singin' their troubles to the heavens."

He snorted at her lack of faith, “I’ll have you know; my touch can be as gentle as morning light. Why, there was a time around my home that involved a wounded deer.” His feathery chest swelled with pride as he held his head high, “I took care of it without a solitary whimper or flash of pain.”

"Aye, gentle like when a cat tends to a mouse, ye mean?" she quipped, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Surely, it felt yer kindness right afore it met its fate, eh?"

"Believe it or not, this one didn’t find its way to my belly." Veledar growled.

Krotos fought back a laugh. "How 'bout we swagger on over and use our charm, eh? Sweet-talk our way through this mess?"

"Because those guards look like they're just achin' for a love sonnet or two," she remarked dryly. "I'm sure they'll swoon right out of our way."

“Hey, it worked on you.” Replied the gryphon with a sense of pride, ruffling his feathers, “So the plan isn’t without its merits.”

“Do you have rank over them?” Asked Arcturus, “We could do as we did back at the fort, to them, we’d just be another inspection.”

The gryphon’s ears splayed, “Ah, that sadly would be a no.”

For several moments, the group deliberated over a range of plans. Ideas sprang forth, from beguiling the guards with enchantments, to stealthy approaches and even the suggestion of turning invisible to slip past undetected. Meanwhile, Natassa remained silent, disinterested in their bickering. Her pale blue eyes surveyed the alley and its guards, following their every move. As Krotos jestingly proposed the idea of cross-dressing to seduce the sentinels, she strode forward without a word, exuding an aura of confidence with every swish of her leopard-like tail.

"And just where do you think you're off to, missy?" Veledar hissed, ready to dart after her, but was held back by a restraining hand. "I haven't settled on a plan just yet!"

"We'll be out here till dawn if you all keep yapping," Natassa replied with a coo, ruffling her wings. "Sit yourselves down and watch a professional at work."

The dragon did as she requested, grumbling under his breath that he was a professional too. As the others took their positions beside him, he asked the question that was surely on the rest of their minds as they watched the confident gryphoness stride into the mana lantern lit street.

"Should we give chase? She'll snatch all the glory," Huffed Veledar.

"Let's observe her actions," Arcturus suggested calmly. "Think of it as a trial to assess the validity of her story and willingness to aid us."

Natassa, her feathers glistening in the mana lantern light, slinked toward the cluster of guards stationed in the alley. With every graceful step, her feline-like grace was on full display, her golden-orange and brown hues melding seamlessly with the shadows. The guards, a mix of male and female humans and gryphons, eyed her approach with suspicion, their hands tensing on the hilts of their weapons.

"Good evening, my brave protectors," Natassa purred, her voice honeyed and alluring. "What brings such valiant souls to a dark alley on this chilly night?"

"Well, well, what have we here?" one of the guards grunted, his hand instinctively reaching for the hilt of his blade. "Another one trying to slip past us, eh?"

Natassa, her eyes glinting with mischief, let out a playful chirp. "Oh, my fine sentinels," she cooed, her voice laced with an alluring sweetness. "You wound me with your suspicion. Can't a weary traveler find a moment's respite in these shadowy corners?"

The guards exchanged wary glances, their resolve faltering in the face of her confident charm. "We're not here for small talk, miss," another guard interjected, his tone brimming with cautious skepticism. "What's your business in this alley?"

Her beak curved into a sly smile, her gaze locking with theirs. "Business? Why, only the most innocent of intentions," she replied, her words laced with a playful tease. "But tell me, my stalwart protectors, is it a crime to seek a bit of company on this lonely night?"

"You're a bold one, ain't ya?" one of the guards remarked, a reluctant smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "But we've got our duty, miss. Can't just let anyone wander into the shadows."

"Oh, I assure you, my dear sentinels," she cooed, her voice a delicate melody. "I'm not just anyone. I'm a gryphoness of refined tastes and curious endeavors."

The guards, their skepticism waning, found themselves entranced by her confident allure, their initial wariness melting away like snow in the morning sun.

"But enough about me," Natassa purred, her feathers ruffling in a graceful display. "Why don't you tell me about your adventures in this dark corner of the city? Surely, there must be some juicy tales to share."

As the guards hesitated, their focus captured by her beguiling presence, a radiant shimmer began to emanate from Natassa's outstretched talons. Dazzling colors danced in the air, weaving intricate patterns that seemed to enthrall the guards in a mesmerizing trance. With a flick of her wing, the shimmer split into delicate thread-like fragments that floated through the air, finding their mark in the guards' eyes.

The guards stood transfixed, their expressions blank and vacant as the enchanting light coiled around them, leaving them suspended in a bewitched stupor. With a parting gryphon kiss to the cheek, Natassa turned around, gesturing to the others with a wing.

“Come on, boys, the coast is clear! These darlings won't be fluttering off anytime soon!"

"Ha, which was a piece of cake," Merlia scoffed, "Took all the fun out of it, didn't it?"

"I could have managed that," Veledar huffed, though he couldn't help but approach the self-satisfied gryphoness, who bestowed upon him a smug gaze. “Though I must remind myself to not pay too much attention to you.” He eyed the humans and gryphons still standing still, staring off into oblivion with jaws slack. “Else I wind up like these fools.”

She blew him a kiss, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "You can always try, darling, but I'm simply irresistible," she purred, sauntering into the alley with a confident sway. "Hurry along now, my dears. The enchantment won't last forever."

“You heard the woman.” Arcturus said, as Merlia slipped past him, kneeling to the moisture slick stone alley. “Let’s get this done.”

As the dwarf’s keen eyes swept across the stone, muttering to herself, the dragon could not keep his eyes off the gryphoness, currently preening her feathers in the thick shadows. If she could easily subdue six guards in such a manner with hardly any effort, why had she not done the same to save Lyndis? His paws itched; part of her story didn’t add up.

"Watch where ya swing them feathers, pretty boy," Merlia growled, swatting at the dragon's rump before delving back into her investigation, her tenacity akin to a relentless predator. Pausing briefly, she scowled, her mind unraveling intricate details others might overlook.

Veledar let out a playful huff, "Careful now, don't go snarling up a storm. We need those pretty feathers intact for the next dance."

"She was here," the dwarf ranger murmured, her gaze fixed on a particular section of stone as she tapped it lightly. "Though whether 'twas the gryphon or our lass is a mystery. There's a scuff from her boots, stubborn as the storm, yet it remains."

"Merlia, forgive my curiosity, but how did you come to that conclusion.”

Merlia plucked a waterlogged sliver of hair, “And a wee bit of her hair as well.”

“I got a smell from up here!” Krotos shouted down from the roof top. “There was a team of gryphons, at least six!”

Merlia's sigh resonated with a hint of reluctance, her eyes surveying the alleyway as she grudgingly confirmed the gryphon's account. "Can't deny it now," she admitted, her voice tinged with resignation, "The bird might've been onto something after all."

"Oh, I did tell the truth, didn't I?" she squawked indignantly, her hand theatrically placed over her chest. "Who'd lie about their best friend? You wound me." She playfully feigned injury, putting a hand to her head and tilting it back for effect.

"All that tells us is that she was here," Arcturus stated flatly, his voice unwavering. "Doesn't help us find where she went."

“I’m working on it!” Merlia shoved away Veledar’s head, “Now move yer bum.”

As she moved stealthily through the shadows, Merlia muttered to herself about a concealed trail that none could follow. Each passing moment seemed to conjure up the image of Lyndis racing for safety, her heart undoubtedly pounding in desperation as the clutches of despair closed in around her until her screams echoed through the night. It gnawed at the recesses of Veledar's mind; if only he had been there, perhaps he could have averted this entire ordeal. The dragon chirped in annoyance as he ruffled his feathers, talons dug into the stone. He was just as powerless as the others in this abysmal form.

"Easy there, my friend," Arcturus said gently, his voice a soothing balm. "We will find her. We will put an end to this darkness."

“Of course, she’ll be alright, that’s why she’s on the team. I only accept the best in my adventuring group. If she’s hurt or injured, we’ll just have to discuss her continued employment.”

“She’s employed by you, yet you’re doing the charging of her?” The knight’s brow rose.

“For the honor of having me at her side of course.” He fluffed his wings to try and hide the worry in his chest, Arcturus however saw straight through it, but didn’t say a word.

“Natassa, you showed great skill back there, yet somehow our friend was captured.” He snapped to the gryphoness, “Why didn’t you save her?”

The gryphoness let out a delicate sigh, motioning them forward as they followed Merlia down the alley. "A magician never reveals her secrets, my dear human, and I am no exception," she said with a playful tilt to her voice. "Just know, darling, that if I could have intervened..." She trailed off, her guard momentarily dropping to reveal the whirlwind of concern within. "I would have. No friend of mine deserves to be caught by this filth."

Just as swiftly as the veil was lifted, it was brought snapping back.

“Dwarf, can you hurry?” Natassa’s voice carried across the alley, “I thought you were supposed to be good at this, need I remind you our time is limited?”

“I am, keep your feathers on, we’ve hit a dead end.” Merlia gazed up, hands on her waist, staring down the wall before her.

“Oh Lord, Lyndis, is this the help you’ve aligned yourself with?” Natassa groaned, her feathers drooping, “This is going to be the death of me.”

“Listen here you feathered harlot.” Veledar clacked his beak to her, earning himself a warning hiss in return, “Insulting my underlings is as good as insulting myself, watch your beak.”

“Quite sure of yourself feathers.” Natassa replied with ice, “With each passing moment my friend, your underling, is in danger of being killed.”

“She won’t be killed.” Arcturus clove through the tension like a knife, drawing back their heads, desperate, “She’s a prisoner of war. They won’t hurt harm a hair on her head, they’ll probably ransom her back home.”

“Look another hair from her head!” Merlia said bitterly, tapping the wall, “Ole girl ran up the wall!”

Gliding up to the rooftop, Merlia and Krotos meticulously tracked the trail, their sharp eyes catching every detail. Evidence of Lyndis's hurried escape became apparent as they observed the deep gouges etched by gryphon talons in the wooden structure. An absence of blood or torn fabric indicated that she had been taken alive. Yet, any hope for positive news vanished with the revelation.

"Trail dies here, lass," Merlia sighed, her gaze skyward, frustration creasing her brow. "No scents, no signs, nothin'. Crafty beasts, these ones."

"Had I known you would be such amateurs, I would have worked alone," sighed Natassa.

“No, I can do the same trick myself. They’re using magic to conceal their movements, not to mention they probably flew off with her which makes tracking extra hard lass.” She growled, shaking her head at the clouds as if the gryphons could hear her. After that she sighed, “Which means we be needing someone good with the finger wiggling.”

“Unfortunately finding persons of interest does not fall under my skill set.”

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

The night breeze swept through Veledar's feathers, piercing his flesh and chilling his heart. The weight of his decision hung over him like a shroud, a shadowy reminder of the irreplaceable loss of his treasured book. The uncertainty of his path ahead left him adrift in a sea of despair, lost and unmoored. His essence felt drained, as if he were a mere shell of the being he once was. It was at that moment, as his despondency threatened to consume him, that the insistent squawking of Krotos cut through the darkness, serving as a stark reminder of their perilous surroundings. A patrol was coming back.

Under the clouded night sky, the group carefully threaded their way through the narrow streets, their movements cautious and calculated to avoid the watchful eyes of the gryphon patrols. Lanterns cast flickering shadows on the damp cobblestones, creating a maze of light and darkness. Veledar, in his gryphon form, led the way with a grace that belied his inner turmoil, his sapphire eyes glinting in the muted light. Arcturus, Merlia, and Natassa followed closely, their footsteps muffled by the moisture that still lingered in the air. Krotos, ever watchful, soared above, keeping a keen eye on the surroundings to alert them of any potential threats from the skies. With each step, the tension mounted, as they navigated the intricate network of alleys, hoping to reach Gus' home without attracting unwanted attention.

As they reconvened in Gus' stable, Asterion's stern countenance reflected the grim reality they faced. The minotaur's earlier concerns had come to fruition, and their prospects of locating Lyndis seemed increasingly elusive. The discussion, tinged with a sense of resignation, gradually shifted to the pressing issues at hand, acknowledging the impending threat of Lyndis' captivity and the dangers it posed to Gus and his family. The once-discarded ideas now resurfaced, each member contemplating the next course of action. Amidst the solemn deliberation, it was Natassa who proposed a new plan, her voice cutting through the heavy atmosphere like a beacon of hope.

“You think we must be mad if you think yer inn be the best option” Merlia growled, “look at where that got Lyndis.”

“Not that place you short simpleton.” Retorted the gryphoness, her feathers ruffling, “I have a hiding place I detest to use for it lacks the faculties I’ve grown accustomed.”

“What is she saying?” Asterion gave a harsh snort, “Spit it out.”

She sighed, "I know a place, a quiet nook hidden away in the underbelly of this city. I used to disappear there after work. It's safe, if you don't mind the stench and the rats.” Her ears pinned in disgust at the prospect, “But it looks as though we’re out of options.”

Concerns were raised, calls for her loyalty were made, but she was right. There were no good choices, and here was a helping hand. They packed their things, said their goodbyes, which Veledar complained about having to endure these sewers.

Before they were to depart, Gus caught the dragon still in gryphon form. He had yet to reveal his true nature to Natassa, the guard looked tired. Empathetic, even though he smelled and looked worried. “Keep an eye on him alright?”

Veledar rose a brow, knowing whom he meant.

“That is your job now, like it or not. He might look strong and be floating on the clouds because of you but keep an eye and paw out.” He laid a hand on the gryphon’s shoulder, “Can you do that for me?”

“First of all, I didn’t say touching.” Veledar squawked, plucking the man’s arm off as if a tick, “But I suppose your request is reasonable, I will of course perform it with the perfection that I do in all things.” As Merlia has snickered at his proclamation he gave the irksome woman a scathing hiss, only making her laugh harder.

****** *** **

The fetid sewers proved as wretched as Veledar had envisioned, warm and shrouded in darkness, saturated with the putrid stench of various species waste. He trudged onward, tucking his wings close to his body, longing to be a creature oblivious to the foul reek. Each step upon the damp stone echoed his lament, urging for a swift conclusion to their dreadful journey. Darkness clung like a living shroud around their solitary mana lantern, weaving elongated shadows that suggested the presence of otherworldly entities lurking in their path.

The echoes of vermin skittering and water trickling gradually melded into the eerie ambiance, as the distant reverberations of mysterious thuds interwove with the soundscape. Just as he began to question Natassa’s intentions, their path abruptly deviated from the convoluted labyrinth that ensnared them.

Beyond the deceptive wall, she traced a particular stone, unlocking a concealed lever. As the lever yielded to her pressure, a narrow passageway emerged, teeming with a host of unsightly bugs and layers of grime. With determined resilience, they contorted their bodies to navigate through the cramped space, eventually arriving at a hidden alcove nestled among the rocky foundation. The space provided ample room for a makeshift encampment, albeit initially void of any fire due to the impracticality of smoke. Merlia's resourcefulness swiftly resolved the predicament, ushering warmth and illumination into their newfound sanctuary.

Amongst the clutter of old supplies and crates, signs of Natassa's previous ventures lingered in the shadows. A meticulously maintained board stood adorned with various markers, detailing the intricate framework of her clandestine operations.

"It's not much, but it'll keep the chill at bay," the ranger sighed, etching a crimson circle on the stone surface with a piece of chalk from her pouch. Cupping her hand and performing an incantation with deft finger movements, she conjured forth vibrant flames that rose and flickered, their dance illuminating the hidden chamber. Devoid of any smoke, the comforting warmth they exuded brought solace to their weary spirits, momentarily banishing the encroaching darkness.

"Ah, the memories," Natassa drawled, her voice laced with a blend of sarcasm and nostalgia. She cast a glance at a concealed alcove where remnants of her past escapades were stashed. "This wasn't my first choice for a cozy night in, but it has served its purpose over the years."

“Such is the reward for your deeds.” Asterion grunted, sitting down cross legged, his tail thumping to the floor, “With luck, we will find another path to continue come morning.”

"Or we could die horrible deaths in these filthy tunnels," Merlia quipped, plopping down beside him. "I suppose it's a toss-up at this point. Which, funny enough, reminds me back home if you believe it.” Merlia laughed bitterly, tapping the wall behind her with an axe, “The stone is a bit finer than me liking, and the company be less dwarf, but it beats a prison cell.”

“Only just.” Natassa gave an exacerbated chirp before setting down, “She’ll never hear the end of this.”

As the group settled in for slumber, Veledar padded away, his steps muffled in the dimly lit tunnel. Reverting to his true form, the dragon's horns nearly scraped the ceiling, the putrid stench assaulting his senses even more. His snout wrinkled in distaste, releasing a discontented hiss into the air.

This was meant to be his triumph. Tonight, should have marked the securing of his long-awaited book, an occasion for exuberant celebration and revelry. There ought to have been raucous dancing, drinks flowing freely, and songs that would have brought a blush to the cheeks of his companions. Yet here he was, entrenched in the bowels of this human city, rifling through their detritus. The sole stroke of luck was the new path he had embarked upon with Arcturus, a path that stirred something deep within his heart.

A growl escaped him as he berated his own weakness, questioning whether his prized book was still within reach. Everything now needed reevaluation, a meticulous reorganization, and to make matters worse, they didn't even have Lyndis to show for their troubles! Bitterness swelled within him as he stared out into the gloomy expanse of the sewer. In that moment, he begrudgingly admitted Asterion had been right. They should have disregarded Lyndis and forged ahead with their original mission. They would still find themselves in their current predicament, the only difference being that he would have possessed his cherished book.

“Something on your mind?” Arcturus spoke softly, padding his way through the darkened path. In his hand he clutched a torch, its flames wrapping him in it’s red-orange glow, painting the other half of his face in darkness. “I can barely see you in the limited light, but I know you’re there. You can’t hide from me.”

Veledar’s breath hitched, his heart thundering within his chest. He hadn't anticipated Arcturus’s approach, the man's voice like a soothing balm upon his turmoil. The dragon turned to face the paladin; his eyes gleaming in the torch's flickering light. His features softened as he met Arcturus's gaze, the vulnerability within him laid bare for a fleeting moment before he tossed his head away with a snarl, “Go away Arcturus, can you not see that I wish to be alone?” Of course, his threat was ignored as the knight laid a hand upon his neck.

“We both know that isn’t exceptionally true.” Arcturus gave an empathetic sigh, “If your intention was to scare me off with your grows, I hate to inform you, I’m growing most fond of them.”

“Wonderful, I can’t even scare off a human with growls, no wonder your people considered to steal from me.” He rolled his eyes, shifting to stare out to the bleak surroundings, spying a rat scurrying by. When Arcturus followed, he brushed affectionately against him with his flank, “You’re persistent.”

“Have to be, look at whom I’m stuck with.”

His touch was comforting despite the whirlwind of tension currently raging beneath his scales. His book had been practically in his paws, this matter of humiliation had been about to be over, yet here he was, bookless, treasureless and now even missing Lyndis.

"There is much that troubles me, my dear," Veledar admitted, his voice barely above a whisper, tinged with both sadness and frustration. "I cannot shake this feeling of failure, of the path slipping away from us. Our mission... it has become so tangled and uncertain. I fear for Lyndis, for our cause, for... us."

“Don’t worry, we will get your book back. It might seem, chaotic, uncertain, dreadful now, but it’s not gone.” Arcturus spoke firmly, shifting the dragon’s eyes, “The path simply just changed, we need to do a bit of adjusting.”

"Intentionally crafted to confound my efforts," Veledar growled, his voice tinged with frustration. "Losing is not a habit I am fond of, especially not when it concerns something I hold dear." He paused, reflecting on the moments they had shared, each memory etched into the fabric of his being. "You and I, we share a common longing, a desire to evade the solitude that haunts us. I released my grasp on everything, anticipating that fate would bestow upon me some grand adventure."

A weight settled on his chest, tugging at his resolve as he continued. "And the words I spoke earlier about her predicament... I..." Veledar hesitated, feeling a rush of vulnerability well up inside him. As he looked up, Arcturus stood beside him, a comforting presence in the darkness.

“Understandable, fear can cloud our judgment. Rest assured; your reputation is safe with me. I won't breathe a word of this to our princess,” Arcturus reassured him, his voice steady and soothing.

Veledar chuffed, ruffling his hair as a calm was brought, “Thank you Umraadi, today you were the only bright spot within this darkness. I just, that book means so much to me, it is practically a part of me. It meant a lot to-” He thought back to his silver scaled brother, “him, my brother.”

“And should you lose it, he will be gone forever?” Arcturus pulled out a locket, clicking it open and staring within.

He nodded.

“But that’s not true.” He closed it, patting Veledar’s chest, “You’ll remember him, share not only his story but the life he had for him. He will never truly be gone if you remember him.”

"My brother and I," Veledar said softly, "Would often engage in the most audacious adventures. We used to spend evenings perched upon the rugged cliffs that overlooked the sprawling valleys. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of blooming wildflowers as we fought over frivolous things like who had the biggest horns and tail. We’d always end up diving through the rolling clouds. Adalina, with her wings spread wide, would always swoop in between us, interrupting our contests with her mischievous laughter. For these fleeting moments, it felt like we were the only creatures in existence, free from the burdens of the world and the responsibilities that awaited us."

Affectionately, he rumbled into Arcturus’ chest, “How is it that you stay so cheery in such a vile atmosphere? What’s your secret, drugs?”

Arcturus laughed, teasing at the dragon’s frills with his nefarious fingers, only warded away by the dragon’s growl.

“If you tickle me, my wrath will be legendary.”

“Then I shall refrain. But for your question, I have this dragon to support me, he is my rock in which to cling to, it’s only fair that I return the gesture.”

“More likely so you can avoid making fires and instead just use me for warmth.”

“And think it this way, when we go to get Lyndis, it’s going to make quite the story.”

“How grand?” He raised his head with a snort.

“A dragon rescuing a princess? I don’t think people would stop thinking about it.”

He liked the sound of that, the tale spreading through Sethera like a plague. He rumbled, caressing his snout as he could already pictured the praise said in his name, “plus she would owe me a great fee, any treasure that I could want.”

“Yes, I suppose- “

“And favors, I could ask for anything, her life would be mine- “

“Veledar, I think you’re losing focus- “

“Arcturus, this is grand.” He chuckled, his eyes gleaming with mischief, “I’m never going to let her live this down, my heroic qualities don’t come cheap you know.” He raised his head as far as it could, rolling a paw to his chest with his most regal snort.

Shaking his head, Arcturus could only chuckle in amusement, “Precisely, she’s going to be very happy to see you I imagine.”

“Oh, and Cordenth will be ever so jealous, that it was us that rescued his love interest.” Now the dragon was beaming, picturing himself lording it over the green dragon as well. Oh, he couldn’t wait. “Now, do you actually have a plan for this Arcturus, or are we winging it?”

“Unlike you dearest dragon, I have a plan.”

“I had a plan.” He protested with a growl.

“Oh?”

“Kidnap you and get my things. I’m just improvising along the way.” He waggled a paw, “Show me this so-called plan, you’re not supposed to lie.”

“I’m not!”

Arcturus rummaged through his pouches as the dragon nosed at him most insistently, “Here, see?” He held up a square bit of parchment that Shandalar had given him.

“No.” Veledar gasped, pulling his head back.

“Merlia said we needed someone more magical, and she already proved she could find people!”

“No.”

“Are you just saying- “

“No, not her.” He slammed down a paw with a growl, already picturing the smug elf’s face.

Crossing his arms, Arcturus levied upon him a stern glance, “And do you have any other ideas?”

To go groveling back to her after he’d dismissed her, he shuttered to think of the embarrassment, he could picture it now, a smug sense of superiority at having bested a dragon. His snout wrinkled at the thought, “I’d rather die than suffer such indignity.”

“Any objection to this other than your pride?”

“No.” He huffed through grit teeth, talons digging into the stone, “You should understand- “

“That this will determine what you value more, your pride or Lyndis’ life.”

Curse the indignity of it all. “Well, you said it yourself, she was a prisoner of war…If we wait it will sort itself all out!”

“Veledar.”

“Alright fine.” He groaned, rolling his eyes. No dragon should have been forced to decide between their beloved treasure and their minions, no matter how fondly he cared for them. Could he just let Arcturus go alone and meet with this woman, never mention he was groveling at her feet? He growled at the thought, not in this city, not after having Lyndis snatched up, he wasn’t going to let the man out of his sight!

The dragon swallowed the lump in his throat as he growled, he would be forced to endure the indignity of it all. “Very well, I’ll ask for her aid.” He averted his gaze, “But I refuse to grovel for help.”

“Veledar.” Arcturus replied.

He tossed his head, lashing his tail against the wall, “Fine, but I won’t mean a word of it.”

** * * * * * * * * *