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Chapter 29: Victory and Visions

Time is a most voracious adversary, it wears away mountains to mere hills, shifts seas, changes continents, turns men and their accomplishments to dust. Food spoils and rots, parchment withers to nothing, very little is beyond it's corrosive touch. Nothing except the hidden alcove of Sethus, it was spotless, devoid of dust.

Before the adventurers was a modest treasure room, though that description would be far too unkind. Ancient platinum coins spilled from the circular frames carved into the marble like walls, glittering from the torches they'd lit. There were statues of antique, beautiful armor, fit for legendary kings or heroes. Thick chests lay tight and bound scattered about, fashioned with sturdy locks, waiting for their bounty to be found. Statues lined the walls, carved of solid amethyst, capturing the nobility of humankind and dragon kin alike. At their claws and scattered among the coins were various scrolls, weapons, potions, just to name a few. As they stood awestruck, Feku started tearing up, wiping her little eyes with her claws.

Unlike the damp world above, this was as dry as the desert. It smelled of earth, of times longs since past. It was like a tomb of a great king of old. Cool and calm the room rested, waiting, patiently bidding them welcome into this marvelous splendor. Yet it was not the countless treasures that Nivra was drawn to, her attention shifted to something far more valuable.

Raised up from the rest was a set of solid, golden stairs. There rested a pedestal of pure granite, a dainty crimson cushion resting atop. Inside was an innocent, milky white crystal sphere, betraying what power it was supposed to hold. The air around it seemed to shimmer with magic in the light, catching what words Nivra had within her throat. She took a tentative step, feeling an invisible hand drawing her in. This is what she'd struggled for, the hope of her people resting within a simple orb.

“This what dragons feel!" Feku giggled in glee, sinking to her knees, and digging ravenously through the numerous coins.

“Just be careful of what you touch!" Tehya narrowly eyed a resting chest, poking it with the tip of her blade. She paused, waiting for the thing to leap up at chomp at her. Nothing happened. With a snort the minotaur continued onto the next, committing to 'test' everything in this room. “Mark my words, there be a mimic here somewhere."

“In the sealed, hidden treasure room of an ally?" Asterion rose a brow, kneeling before a brown chest emblazoned with the clenched fist of korde. “It would have had to sneak in…." His voice trailed off as he spotted a name carved into the chest, one in the language of his people. He peered closer, swearing it must be off. The name was his. Against Tehya's judgement he reached out and opened the chest with a creak. Within froze his heart, scattered his mind to the winds. There were diamonds here, each the size of his palm. Enough he bet, to complete the scroll resting in his pack. His head drooped silently, his eyes growing wet. He whispered a thanks to his diety.

“Don't think I didn't see that movement carpet!" Tehya shouted, glaring at royal purple carpet resting innocently on a rack. She poked it three times with the tip of her blade, no movement, no attack, nothing tried to strangle her. She stood tall with a harsh snort. “That's what I thought."

The words of her companions were lost on the mage as she continued her gentle stride towards the orb. With each step, a gentle power caressed the air, teased at her senses. She could feel it getting stronger, her heart began to race. Anticipation or excitement? She whispered to herself, now resting a mere hand reach away. Leaning down she saw a thick fog swirling within, where blurred shapes shifted within. Trick of the eye? The hairs on the back of her neck stood tall, as the urge to reach out came to her, a silent, overpowering force for her to reach out and take it. Secure this powerful item for her countrymen, her kingdom, more importantly, the power it would grant her.

The world narrowed to this simple thing. She could right so much wrong. How odd, she whispered to herself as the steadied and stopped her out reaching hand. The sphere was ten inches in diameter, by no means small. Would it be difficult to move? She turned back to the minotaur, certain with their strength it wouldn't prove much of a problem.

But did they deserve to touch it? An unassuming voice whispered in the back of her mind. Surely an object of this importance should only be handled by the worthy. Those with the magical skill or royal birth. She shook her head of such thoughts, as Achaaz's inquisitive snout rested beside her.

Her nostrils flared, head slightly tilted, the dragoness looked just as lost within the swirling mass as Nivra had been. Frills fluttered anxiously; her muscles all tensed. She looked ready to tear something asunder at the mere drop of a hat. “Something here is wrong." She broke the silence, her voice low and stern.

“Is it?" Nivra broke away from the orb, noting how the dragoness shivered.

“Don't ask me to explain how." Achaaz curled back to watch the others, her concerned eyes falling to each of them. “Its in my bones, my essence. Something here is wrong with the world. Like we're not supposed to be here. Like someone is telling a story wrong."

That rose the mage's brow, slowed her heart. Could dragons sense such things? She recalled Arcturus and the others saying how they could detect magic, or even dark manipulations of it, was this the same? “But that can't be right. You heard Sethus, he knew all about us-“

“Except for me." Achaaz turned, flaring her nostrils. “Something changed his vision."

“But….How could that be?" She looked to the blank statues around, feeling smaller than she'd felt before. The wizard shivered. Was there something more sinister at work? “Come now. We've not dealt with fates or seers before. It could be that the future is simply not an exact certainty." She scoffed, sweeping around the orb. “Besides your name, the dragon had everything else right."

But her words did little to quell the distrust within the dragon's eyes. They were still a sea of fear. Her frills snapped back as she sniffed the orb, her body trembling like a wrymling caught within a thunderstorm. “There's a presence within that thing. Broken, alone, dark and terrible. I don't think we should be messing with it."

Dark and terrible? It sounded like the mana crystals her kingdom used. Magic often took many risks in the name of research and knowledge. Perhaps this wasn't going to be different. The wizard caressed her chin. Did this orb instead use demons or something else to fuel it? “I came here to find an alternative to ripping out the souls of the living. If this knowledge if sealing away dark spirits, I'll leave little sleep on the matter. We'll just have to take a few precautions."

“You wizards." Achaaz snorted, her snout wrinkling. “Only the end results matter, don't they? What if something goes wrong?"

“That could be said of anything Achaaz." She scoffed, patting away the dragon's concerns. “We'll study, find what dangers are present and plan accordingly. There can't be progress without any risk involved." She gestured to one of the numerous chests. “We'll stash it away, no one will be touching it until we get the proper precautions." She turned to the dragoness with a smile, unable to hide the pure delight coursing through her veins. She reminded her of what an opportunity this was, to study and document a device that no one had set eyes on in thousands of years. “Even you have to appreciate the beauty of it."

Curiosity and draconic instinct rested deeper than any fear could hope to plunge. She agreed and slunk away to the treasure, to claim her share before anyone else. This happened to be the statues that lined the hall, getting no objection at her proclamation. “Good." She snorted with a grin, holding her snout high. With a bounce in her paws, she sauntered over, inspecting her newly claimed goods.

Minutes turned to an hour as they catalogued all they found within this trove. Pouches and backpacks were stuffed to the brim with as much coin as they could carry. A symphony of jingles accompanied every step they took. There would be many trips ahead of them, but it was a place to start. Among this collection however they found items especially prepared just for them, this was apparent as each had a carved fragment with their names in their native tongue displayed. To Feku was given a lyre of blackwood, gilded with edges of gold. Upon it were two faces, blowing unseen wind between the two.

“Instrument of bards it say! Magic!" She exclaimed, planting herself in the coins to begin her experimental plucking of the strings.

To Tehya, a battle axe had been gifted. One with a red leather shaft, the head forged of pure brass. Nearly cutting herself on the blade she'd worn a child like grin. “Dragon already had more reasons than I could count to like him, and he keeps adding things." She swung it around, leaving a thin mist upon the air. Evidently it had a magical property yet unknown. She proceeded to continue her experiments of whatever remained in the room.

For Nivra, a cloak was waiting for her. A black river of thread flowed down the stand, perfectly sized for one of her stature. Silver dragons were stitched into the edges, all around the base, up the front and around the hood. On each shoulder were decorations of platinum scales, fashioned to the exquisite cloth. It was soft to the touch, warming her to the bones. Just like the orb, there was a palpable aura of magic in the air. As she rubbed the cloth between her fingers, her mind swirled with the possibilities of just what it entailed. Evidently if the statue's words had not worked, Sethus would attempt to bribe them with gifts.

“The dragon wasn't lying about his generosity." Asterion came to her side, resting a chest he'd found.

“Is that so?" She side eyed the cleric.

His eyes were clearly wet, his fur bearing the sign of a few tears. He sniffed and wiped his cheeks, waving away her concern. “Damned dusty air." He remarked flatly, “Tombs are always filled with it. You'd think the dragon would have left an enchantment for that sort of thing."

“Maybe he did, and it faded?" She innocently replied, hiding the fact there were no signs of dust. Let the minotaur keep his dignity if that's what he wished. “Which reminds me. I ever tell you about the tomb of the gryphon Caecillious? Had all four of his mates mummified with him! Should have seen it, embarrassing to say the least. I spring a hidden trap, the mummy springs up from his coffin and boom. I leap back, screaming like a banshee, trying to beat back the cobwebs with a fan. Poor Voidwing, bless his soul, trembling right along with me!" She almost snorted as she recounted how the bodyguard in his haste had separated the gryphon tribesman from his head.

“Quite the sight I'd imagine." He replied, turning to face the orb. The entire time they'd been searching, it's gaze was always apparent. The bull shivered; almost certain something was watching them below those swirling clouds within. He approached with the magician, his stance firm. “I imagine touching it is out of the question?"

“Achaaz and I think it's dangerous." She muttered.

He turned to her with a nod, “Arcturus spoke of such a device possessing a foolhardy magician, Vargus I believe was his name. Then there was the mercenary Garroth. It's safe to assume this one has a similar enchantment at work."

“Goes against what Sethus said above wasn't it? Of pure weave?" She slightly tilted her head, the orb seeming to look at her. Hairs on her neck stood tall.

His expression didn't change, his arms crossed. “Similar or not, caution must be observed. We've survived on much luck these past few days. Let's not push it further."

“Luck? I thought we had the will of the gods!" She gently tapped his chest as she chuckled, he didn't laugh. “Well then." She tapped her staff, composing herself. “You and Achaaz have the same reservations in common, who'd have thought?"

“Certainly not I." He grumbled, retreating to the treasure.

Quick as they could manage, they emptied out one of the numerous chests , finding it filled with pearls, rubies, and sapphires. Feku instantly fell to her knees, scooping what she could carry and into her pack. They laughed and carried the chest to the orb, and with a wave of Nivra's hand, shrunk the powerful artifact small enough to fit inside. Without touching it they gently pushed the orb into the chest with a scabbard, it landed with a satisfied thump.

They slammed shut the lid and went for the exit. All they needed to do now was recover the crew, cure whatever wounds afflicted them and head out! Their good cheer and spirits all sank lower than a dwarven hall, as Feku let out a piercing shriek.

Frantically the little kobold flailed her arms where a ruby had clamped tightly. It struck the wall in a dull clatter, it's form strange and bizarre. On either side it had grown twin arms, at its center were a set of gnarled, sharpened teeth. Where it clattered, life was brought. Coins in the dozen began to sprout strange little arms, grow serrated teeth. Slurps and gurgles echoed across the room as statues and chests began to do the same.

“All I did was touch a gem!" Achaaz shouted in alarm, batting aside a mass of coins.

Tehya was the first to brandish her weapon with an almost child like glee, “I bloody knew it! Fucken Mimics!" She shook the axe as the mass of teeth and claws dragged themselves towards her. “Come now, who be the first to test me?" Her laugh echoed off the halls.

Holes in her spells were perfect for people, not so much for valuables. Nivra wasn't willing to bet the orb would be fine. She and Asterion rushed past the cow, “Hopefully no one!" She called over her shoulder. “Let's get some room!" They'd just reached the foot of the stairs when Asterion stopped dead, realization bubbling over his face. He'd forgotten the chest full of diamonds.

With a mere request she go on without him, he sprinted across the stone, his hooves drowning out everything else with their clomping. Achaaz and Feku scrambled past him, he passed Tehya, the minotaur woman all to glad to be slamming the brunt of her axe into this mass of mimics. Large chunks were stripped clean from their shape changed bodies, leaving wounds of bubbling, greyish slime.

“What could be so important?" Nivra cursed as she dragged the chest's bulk up the stairs, hitting each step along the way. By the time she forced her way to the top, she was red faced, sweating, and wishing she'd focused a tad more on her athletics. Feku had long since beat her to the top, her scales white as she asked where the others were. Nivra grimaced, both minotaur and dragons yet to arrive. “What the hell is keeping them? I told them to leg it!"

Deep in the vault filled with the shifting, claw dragging mass of abominations, Asterion joined Tehya in clearing a path. Ground beneath their hooves they splattered what mimics sought to devour them, tiny teeth gnawing at their ankles, little more than bee stings to these brutish warriors. The air was filled with the cold grey ooze as they swept it aside. With savage grunts and shouts, they were less well off than when they began. It seemed for every twisted creature they split in two, three more took their place. Yet still the followers of korde fought on, fueled to try harder, despite the odds.

“I need the chest!" Asterion blurted in desperation as they'd begun to lose their ground.

Tehya caught his eye and nodded, understanding its importance. With a chest pounding roar she slammed what strength she had into the mass, grinding those beneath her to dust. Asterion leaped forward with what ground she gained, summoning his mass of magical, spectral hammers. Their shimmering might kept the creatures at bay, long enough for the cleric to snatch up the chest and sprint right back to her, only getting a few tail hairs pulled away for his trouble.

“All of this just for a treasure chest?" Achaaz roared, slamming a mimic against the floor, exploding it into a pile of stone colored goo. She rolled her eyes as the twin warriors ran past her, noticing the one she'd killed had started to reform. “And I thought dragons were greedy!" After their hooves she followed, bounding up the stairs in a cacophony of claw clacks and hoof beats, it was a miracle they heard Nivra's plan from above.

“Keep running! Fireball incoming!"

Three of the twisted beasts latched onto Achaaz's tail, sinking their razor-sharp teeth deep. She yelped in alarm, slamming her tail along the walls as she focused on galloping up the stairs. She grit her teeth at the pain, knowing it was a small price to pay rather than be dragged down into their snapping mass. Thankfully two of the blighters lost their grip, tumbling back into the shambling hoard of teeth. Heart racing, her forepaws scrambling to go ever faster, she practically bound up the last step. Pinning her wings as the wizard's fireball flew right through her outstretched limbs.

It exploded in a fiery burst, a blinding, red-orange light of magical destruction. Beautiful flames swept their way across the granite in a deadly dance, evaporating any liquid clinging to their surface. Unable to harm the dragoness' scales, the ball of heat turned its vengeance to those that followed her. Into this force it poured its cruelty, its callousness, and it's will to see everything burned away. The mimics alien like flesh blackened and charred, their greyish ooze like blood bubbled and sizzled with a terrible scream. Tiny, mangled limbs shriveled and flailed before bursting to ash. Their bodies flailed and thrashed in agony, releasing a pained sound straight out of a nightmare. Those still alive for a few seconds more dragged their still flaming claws up what stairs they could manage. Their energy spent they froze, shriveling away to nothing but blackened ash.

Quickly as they'd come, the mimics had been defeated. All that was left of them was a panting dragoness, the racing hearts of the adventurers that surrounded her, and the overpowering smell of charred flesh. Nivra took one whiff, her face drained of color, and she wretched all over the stone.

“I'd say that's another well done encounter." Tehya panted, thumping Asterion's chest. “And mimics no less. Abolyth slain and those blighters as well. Looks like the day be looking up."

Asterion didn't look at all pleased with their success. The warrior cleric was staring at the chest with a look of suspicion painted upon his brow. He tugged his goatee.

“Anything on the mind?" Nivra coughed, wiping her mouth clean. Her eyes met the minotaur's, he had the same suspicion as she. The golden dragon had set this all up for them, offered them gifts, boons, yet there was a trap within. Did he plan it, or had the mimics crept their way in over the years? They'd already seen his predictions weren't perfect.

“I think we should investigate the items he gave us more closely. Just to be sure." He undid the chest he'd procured, revealing a mass of diamonds, shimmering in the light.

“Asterion…" She held his hand as he grew silent, staring at this gift. “Surely there's enough for…"

“There is." He uttered bitterly, “Lets see if the mimics were just a coincidence." He waved a hand across the diamond's surface, miming the sprinkling of salt. He whispered a few words of power, ones intended to reveal what magic lurked about, or what curses awaited them.

For minutes, the cleric stared intently, lifting up the chest and inspecting every miniscule inch. He set it down with an unconvinced snort, gesturing for the others to do the same. He preformed the same ritual for all their gathered found items, his expression never changed. He set aside Feku's lyre with a shake of his head. “There appears to be nothing amiss. It would appear the only thing our dragon ally is guilty of, is not predicting the perfect future."

“Or he wanted us to fight them." Tehya seized back her axe, pressing a tiny rune within the hilt that Asterion had told her about. Flames flared from the steel. The warrior grinned. “Think he knew I've been wanting to rid the world of a half dozen mimics." She turned to the statue of Sethus, giving him a chest pounding salute. “You're alright in me book Sethus. Wish you be enjoying the afterlife."

“Course he good. He like Bahamut!" Feku smiled, pressing her lyre into Achaaz's snout. “Did you hear what Asterion said? It can summon walls of fire, wind and stone!"

As the others gushed about their gains and plotted a return trip, Nivra kept to herself and paced away deep in thought. Wonderful as this beast's prediction of the future, it was clear he wasn't perfect. Would any of it come true? Or only partially? Her heart sank that this bright future was never meant to be, hindered by time's darkened shadow. Upwards she fondly stared to the dragon's statue, swearing to make his dream come true. She could at least attempt to make it true anyway. It was just a manner of if the rest of the world would agree.

“Well, with our adventurous spirits sustained for now." Nivra turned, composing herself. “I believe our attentions can turn towards the crew of the bloody mermaid. Think they've been trapped here long enough. Don't you think?" She got a round of approving nods, yet any joy was sucked from them like poison from a wound. Thoughts had no doubt turned to the captain.

“Suppose that makes me captain now." Tehya stated flatly, giving the others a nod. “Now don't give me those saddened looks. She died, won't be the last. Nor was she the first captain at the bloody mermaid's helm." With a final flare of her nostrils the now captain turned, gesturing over her shoulder towards the entrance. “Now come on the lot of you. We have a crew to reunite and share the news."

So, they followed after her after collecting their things. Even Ten had been plucked off the cold floors and rested over Achaaz's back. Though he was breathing, the catman hadn't awakened, even from a gentle heal from Asterion. Feku's scales told of grim thoughts, but Nivra was first to ease her mind.

“Perhaps the Aboltyh's control was taxing to the mind. Like running for miles upon miles without a break. Let's give him a few to recover. It could even take days." She smiled as it seemed to belay the kobold's fears. With a nod they carried on after the others, ignoring the exhaustion tugging at their limbs. What darkness that had gripped the city above had faded, and each was eager to see the fruits of their labor.

*

It was as they'd wanted; the sea elven city of Anano awoke from a terrifying dream. What control the Abolyth had wrought was swept away with it's death. Confusion, relief and grief spread through the city like an unchecked fire. Hordes of those controlled broke down in tears, others hung their heads in reserved shame, their recovery going to be a long one.

Streets that had an air of terror were now packed to the brim with hope and light. Nivra and the others found themselves at the center of attention. Cheers, slaps on the back, it appeared as though everyone knew of their names and deeds. Most likely the last 'gift' the Abolyth had shared. Not a soul blamed them for the death of the enslaved, even going as far as to thank them for releasing them from such a living horror. The adventurers were offered food, clothes, even some suggesting their children would be named in their honor. It was all they could do to press forward, insist to see their crew.

On the outskirts of the city they found them, among the huddled masses of dazed and confused slaves. Some that had never even known the sun's light. Tehya was the first to swim forward, wrap tight Aeros in an emotional display of the ages. The rest of the crew came next, shouting their cheers of victory, some insisting they knew all along that the first mate and the others would come to their rescue. Though they were shocked of a dragon's presence, they cheered all the same, not caring were they found their salvation.

Their recovery would be a long one as it was revealed, for they all bore signs of the Abolyth's trickery. The jelly like skin they possessed was not easily cured. It took the strongest of magics, only which a handful of clerics counted among their knowledge. With the sea elves aid it would still be a fortnight of constant work, just to get the crew ready to depart. Though this news had been hard, the passing of the captain was harder still. Where happiness and joy had been found, was swept away in a chill wind. They gathered in a grim silence, offering their respect to the new captain.

That night began the remembrance, thousands gathering to remember and pay tribute to those that'd lost their lives to the Abolyth's evil. Their mournful song drifted through the watery depths, reaching into the most stoic of hearts. Though most didn't comprehend the elves tongue, it conveyed what it'd meant to. The promise to remember all those that had died, to never let such events transpire again. The coming silence weighed heavily upon all those that attended, wishing the dead well in what afterlife they were bound.

*

Feku stashed her things back onto the bloody mermaid, wiggling her tail back and forth as she went. Everything seemed to long ago, the trip, the swimming, the fear. It was hard to believe it was only two weeks ago. She plucked a shimmering ruby from her pouches, rubbing it until its crimson surface shone in the afternoon sun. She smiled and thanked Bahamut that it wasn't trying to eat her.

She placed it next to her lyre, resting comfortably in a chest of treasure within her quarters. The urge to strum the strings was strong, distract her mind from the coming days and what anticipation hounded her scales. After all, Asterion had told her about the diamonds, which could only mean one thing was waiting for her on their return.

“It won't be long now Azzik." She whispered in draconic, bowing her head. Closing her eyes, she could almost feel his scales pressed against her, trapped within a loving embrace. She sighed, trying to shake away the anticipation pounding at her skull. There were so many stories she had to share with him. So many dangerous encounters she'd survived and faced! He was going to be so shocked! It was going to be exhausting, but one she'd never trade for anything else. She returned to digging through her pack of treasures. They were going to retire rich! Never face scary monsters again!

“You could have asked for the silverware, you know." Nivra peered up from one of the thick lavender tomes spread around her, resting on a makeshift desk she'd crafted out of crates. Bags hung under her bloodshot eyes, her hair was frazzled and untamed. Rest had not found the mage yet, she'd been too busy researching her orb. “Instead of stealing it."

“I didn't steal it." She replied innocently with a devilish smile. She held up the said fork and knife, staring at their gleaming, pearl handles in the sunlight. She could only make a few guesses of their value, all of them high. “Had them at breakfast with sea elf people. Was so shiny and nice, got distracted. By time realized still had them, we already on boat!" She added them to the chest containing their treasure. “I figure we not want swim all way back!" With a wave of her claw, she dismissed the mage's roll of the eye. “Don't worry, I bring them back, first chance get."

Nivra clicked her tongue, turning her book's pages. “That's going to be awfully hard, considering Tehya is having us set sail come morning."

“Terrible luck!" Feku wiggled her tail. “I swears I bring them back. Cross my tail and hope to fly." The kobold waggled her fingers and pressed her claw to her nose.

“Mmhmm." Nivra gave her a knowing look, certain there would never be another time. She returned to flicking through her books, not finding anything to clue her in on cracking the orb's mystery. The mage peered over at a metallic stand of brass, the orb contained beneath a sheet. She shook her head, returning to the page.

She returned to her pack, stumbling as a wave rocked the boat. Out of instinct she shot up in alarm, her heart thundering in her chest. Where they under attack again? Every muscle went tense, her limbs froze, she blinked, waiting for something to happen. Nothing. She relaxed with a nervous laugh, glad Nivra hadn't spotted her false alarm. She finished unpacking without much interference, save for almost tipping and slamming into the hidden orb! When she caught herself, she had spent long moments staring at the linen sheet, the urge to gaze upon something crafted by a dragon almost overpowering. She hadn't gotten a good look down in the temple, it was bound to be shiny and wonderful. Everyone else spoke about how great it could be, what harm would there be in looking? Without asking she leaned in, gently revealing the ghostly white surface.

Her head tilted; her eyes went wide as the mist like storm swirled about beneath the orb's surface. That wasn't very shiny at all! Yet even though she doubted it would be worth much coin, she found herself reaching out. Almost as if a hand were gently guiding her by the wrist. Inches away she froze, scales shivering. There was something off about this simple device, like it didn't belong in this world. She'd retracted her hand when Nivra violently shoved her away, returning the sheet.

“Feku, you mischievous lizard, what were you thinking? Don't you know the orb could be dangerous? You could have injured yourself!"

Still caught in awe, she had to shake her little snout, focus on the wizard now shaking her and repeating her name. Blinking, she rolled her eyes and pushed the magician away. “You worry over that thing?" She scoffed and waved away the mage's concern. “It not even shiny. What dragon make something and not make shiny?"

“That's not the point. It's an artifact of great power. To probe it's depths with a…" The mage bit her lip, trying to put it politely. “Less than stellar willpower, might prove disastrous."

Well that certainly sounded bad. She gulped and took a step back, insisting she'd never ever risk touching it again. Besides, if it wasn't worth that much, better to let the wizard deal with it. Feku had better things to do than staring blankly at a stupid sphere. “So, what you know about it?" She crossed her arms, brow raising.

Nivra sighed wearily, wiping her tired eyes. “Nothing much, you'd think a few days of sleepless study would prove beneficial. It's not responding to any inquisitive spells." She slammed shut one of the tomes, moving onto the next one. “If I must wait to finish my research in the library of Struport, it's going to be an irksome month of wait." She tapped her chin, “Though maybe we can boost our way home. Would that shave a few days off the return? I'll have to ask Tehya…"

“The elves didn't know?" She tilted her head the other, flicking her tail. “It was in their temple, how they not know?"

“Course they didn't know of it Feku. Otherwise, the Abolyth would have found it." Nivra cracked open another book, breathing in a whiff of the pages with a look of brief contentment. It faded when her eyes returned to the letters within. “Before you ask, there was no mention of Sethus either. The dragon's enemies must have been everywhere."

That was sure to be so. If dragons had enemies, they were sure to be strong and powerful. The kobold spun around, feeling a tingling in her stomach. Better to leave Nivra to deal with the mystery, Feku had to solve the mystery why she was still hungry. She licked her lips, already knowing how it would end. Maybe the ship's cook would give her another lesson, even help her boil up some of those tasty clam things the crew were going on about. Without a word she scampered towards the door, her claws clicking on the wood. She couldn't wait to sink her teeth into- She slammed snout first, full speed into Ten's crotch.

The seven-foot-tall warrior folded in on himself as he held in a snarl. Powerful muscles shook, his hands clenched. Pale blue eyes were watering as Feku shot up from the floor, a genuine smile on her face, unaware of the ache she'd caused him.

“Ten!" She shouted in delight, stitching herself to his leg. She mashed her snout against the course fur with a gentle purr. “Where you been? You not visit in two week! I thought you not coming home!"

He didn't answer, the words coming like a cart stuck in a valley of mud. His maw opened several times, trying to answer the excited kobold, but his stutters and pained expressions were only met with a bombardment of more questions. Where were his people, why was he at the bottom of the sea, what he had for breakfast? He had to silence her with a gentle hand upon her nose. "My name…Is…Tenzin." Though strong in body he appeared, his voice was a fragile thing. His ears splayed in embarrassment, the realization that the abolyth had stolen something it hadn't intended.

Oblivious to the warrior's embarrassment and shame, the kobold gasped loudly, pure delight shining in her eyes. “That's a pretty name! I loves it!"

Surprise sprung to his eyes as the kobold bound around him. It took a few moments to collect his thoughts. He kneeled before her, locking his kind, pale blue eyes upon her. “Thank you little Feku…I was trapped for many years under that things power….I had no choice…No thoughts of my own…." He grimaced, having to take a deep breath, but she didn't interrupt. He continued, “You and your companions have given what was stolen, defeated the beast." Again, his face scrunched as he tried to force the words. He hung his head, but a tiny claw comforted his massive hand.

“Go on." She said softly.

He nodded and laid that same hand upon her shoulder. “For what was returned, I swear a life debt to you. Wherever your feet shall tread, you shall find me as your…shadow."

Always by her side? That would be most troublesome whenever she wanted to be alone. She pulled back, memories coming to her of her time with the observer. She didn't want to be anything like that thing! “I don't want slave." She gave a heavy sigh, “You can stay and be friend. We always need more people. More people the betterers Lyndis says, unless of course in sharings of money."

“Its…Not like that." His ears twitched, his stance didn't change. “I'd be your guardian, for you, your chosen mate, and your children."

Her eyes widened. “So like Voidwing?"

His furry brow raised. “I don't know who that-“

Over her shoulder her snout went, “Lady Nivra, he wants to be like Voidywing, should I say yes or no?"

Up from her page, Nivra's face slowly crawled. Flickers of annoyance of having her work interrupted yet again, danced in her icy blue pools. “Do whatever you feel is right Feku. I'm not your keeper." She spun around, returning to her study. “Though I'd think about turning him down. To his people it's a grave insult. I've heard of a few people getting their arms ripped out."

Grave insult? Her little heart nearly stopped. She didn't by no means want to do that! Without a thought she spun around, accidently whipping the warrior across the face. Blood flushed to her scales. “I so sorry!" She held his fluffy face in her claws. “Did I hurt?" To her relief he wasn't, but he was still waiting for her decision. Now it wasn't even that.

“Course you can come along and be friend!" She shouted, bringing red to Nivra's brow. She grabbed at the Tenzin's massive hands, rubbing along the grey fur. “You gone so long beneath water! How many years?" She gently smacked his hand before he could answer. “It far too long. You like cook? How bout singing?" Her tail rapidly thwacked against the deck. “You haven't met Arcturus, he likes swinging sword like you! Isn't that right lady Nivra?" She spun around, meeting a most frightful glare back by the wizard. On second thought, perhaps she didn't need her opinion.

“Then it as it should be. Feku and Tenzin's paths are one." Tenzin rose, easily towering over the diminutive kobold. His stomach growled, prompting her to latch onto his hand with a vice like grip. She couldn't move him, but that didn't stop her insistent grunting and straining. Her tiny feet dragged uselessly across the floor.

“Come on Tenzin. Kitchen we go. Fill your belly! You never go hungry or eat gross stuff again!"

He smiled and yielded, proceeding to get dragged out into the hall and towards the galley, his short, think tail wagging behind him.

“Finally." Nivra announced loudly, procuring a vial of ink and feathered quill from her pack. “Peace and quiet." Uncovering the dragon orb she returned to her work, staring deeply into the crystal's depths. The room soon filled with the sounds of her notes upon the page.

*

Asterion found himself between a rock and a hard place. He didn't wish to be alone after such a harrowing adventure, but he also didn't wish to make a fool of himself as the others were doing. He settled on a compromise, keeping to a corner of the galley, knitting as the sun sank below the rising falling waves, leaving the waving purple hues to be replaced by a sea of black, broken apart by the tapestry of stars.

Methodically he worked with what yarn he had as barrels of the finest ales and wine that the sea elves could provide were drunken happily down by the crew. This was not the only gifts given. Golden jewelry of various sorts adorned their hairy wrists and necks, from rings to necklaces, to amulets. Each had a drunken smile from ear to ear, their faces more crimson than Veledar's scales. Each of them reveled and sang, trying to forget the terror they'd been subjected too.

Hours passed in time with his hand movements, easing the turmoil in his soul. Often, he'd drift back to the red chest within their quarters, the knowledge that his quest was at and end tugging at his mind. He'd mulled it over casting it the moment they'd returned to the ship, but Sethus had left for him a note. One instructing him to wait until they had all regathered, even stating there were two extra diamonds then needed. He supposed one was for captain Beyu, it seemed simple enough. But who was the last one for? The thought was troubling. Despite his ponderings, the urge to see his honor returned was burning inside him, raging like a powerful flame. Even as his hands worked, it was all he could do to focus on the scarf he was crafting.

During one of the numerous games of chance in the hall, Tehya sprung up with a thunderous cheer, the table going with her. Coin and cards scattered across the floor as the crew stumbled for another round of drinks. The minotaur maiden stepped over what carnage she brought with a predatory grin, sauntering her way towards where Asterion sat. Gone was her armor, she only wore the lose clothing of their people. She pulled up a chair with a screech, devious intent glinting within her eye.

“So what keeps the cleric in the corner this lovely eve?" She gestured to the happily singing crew, including Feku who'd convinced Tenzin to simulate drums. “Tonight, be a night for celebrating. We won the day, got the ship, got enough booty to live comfortable lives." She grinned, tapping her coinpurse. “Well, at least fer a time that is."

“Just keeping the hands busy. It focuses the spirit and mind after such feats." He gestured to his work, tenderly holding up the half formed, azure colored scarf.

“How about we retire to my quarters." She leaned in, running a finger along his muzzle. The intent was clear as the glimmer in her eye. “And you can read me some poetry?"

He stammered to make an excuse over his work, his blood running hotter than a forge. His nostrils flared as she pressed tightly against him, resting a hand unsubtly on his thigh. He caressed her mid-section without a word, it seemed she wished to claim yet another bit of booty to her treasure. The thought had lingered between them since his rescue, and he'd consider himself a fool if he turned her down. When she grabbed his wrist he didn't resist, letting the warrior woman drag him off to a chorus of wolf whistles, and leering eyes.

“Why you make all those noises? They just leaving!" Feku spouted loudly, as the minotaur couple slipped away from the galley, their minds wrapped up on more carnal affairs.

*

Gently the bloody mermaid rocked on the sea, the wind whistling across the bound sails. Leather creaked, the metal clinked, it could put any mortal mind at ease. The salty spray broke against the deck, coating the railings in a fine mist. One cleric of korde found himself caught in the comforting syymphany, staring out the glistening moon far above.

Troubled thoughts fluttered about his mind as the second moon of Welun emerged atop the waves, casting it's lavender splendor across the night sky. The warrior cleric watched in silence, knowing it only came out in the winter months, a symbol for love and delight among many races upon this earth. It did little for him save prompting the clutching tight of his furred cloak, bidding the night watchmen to rest.

“I'll watch for now." He'd stated, the man in question being more than happy to join the party going of the rest of the crew.

Flicking his tail, the past was never clearer to the warrior than it was now. He had his box of diamonds, his quest was complete. Here he stood, at the fork of a crossroads that seemed ever on the distance of time, never quite within his reach. Yet down within the belly of the beast it rested, calling out his name in whispers. What future would he have now? He shook his horned head with a snort. Continue with Arcturus and the others? He'd gone with them only to procure said diamonds, that road seemed to be at an end. As he grumbled upon the knight and dragon's rescue, Tehya's words that evening flickered across his frown.

“Stay with us." The warrior woman had said softly, walking a finger along his furred chest. “There are plenty sticky situations that can be gotten out of, with a powerful cleric in our ranks." She'd nestled up close beside him, enjoying the afterglow of their numerous salacious romps. Her heat was overpowering, her company more welcome than he'd ever imagined. “If its battles you want, sure we can always find something. Adventure by day and by night we celebrate with sex and ale. Not too bad if you be asking me."

He'd nodded silently at the time, the idea of course appealing. “You're aware I can bring back the captain when we return to shore. I have the solution within my chest."

Eyes had widened, a gasp had left her lips. Resistance to his request is what he'd expected, but the minotaur woman had laid back, her arms behind her head. “Is that so? Shame, rather liked the idea of being captain." She nudged him with a smirk. “Came with a few perks, but if the captain comes back, won't hear no complaining from me."

“And what would she say about another minotaur among the crew?" He turned to her, his voice low.

She'd scoffed, pushing away his snout with but a laugh. “Think she can welcome the man that be saving her life! She'd be a fool to say no! Question just remains what will you be wanting!"

The question had haunted him, pushed him away from the warmth offered by her bed and naked form. Even as he shivered in the night air and his breath curled in a ghostly manner, the urge to return to her was still there. He just needed to understand what he wanted. To travel the seas in search of battle, a mate at his side, or to remain with the others, the ones that had made his salvation possible. In a way they were part of his clan, especially when his previous one no longer wanted him. Asterion hunched himself over the railings, releasing a troubled sigh. He hardly even heard Nivra as she strolled her way onto the deck, wrapped tight within her new onyx robes.

Her teeth chattered as she hugged tight the black fabric, slinking to his side. “You had to pick the coldest place to stand?" she searched him hoof to horn, sighing as she noted his stoic like stature. “Been looking all over the ship for you, where have you-“ She noticed how one of his arms was held in a sling. Concern flashed across her face. “Are you alright? Why havn't you-“

He scoffed and waved her away. “I'm fine, just a little broken bone is all. Quite common."

“Quite common in what? If you're arm wrestling you're supposed to stop quite long before-“ Her eyes flashed with realization. “That's why everyone was giggling like a bunch of drunken fools!" She laughed and smacked the warrior's chest. “You and Tehya finally…" Her cheeks flashed a bright red, nearly losing her composed demeanor. “Well I'm happy for you, is that the only thing you broke?"

“Well there was her bed, the dresser, a plate…and I'm certain there was a rather nice glass-“

“I meant the bones." She quickly cut him off, blushing. “And that sounds fairly rough!"

“Have you seen minotaur mating?" He chuckled from his belly, amusement on his lips. “Its why you don't often see my kind and yours."

“I can see why." He brow wrinkled, “What fun is it if you end up with broken limbs all the time!"

He shrugged as she drew closer, leaning curiously over the railings. In the distance from the watery depths came a dozen or so shimmering shapes, jelly fish with bulbous heads, spreading out their appendages around them as if a reflection of the sun. What began as white shifted to red, then to a varying multitude of colors. The wizard sighed, rubbing the bags below her eyes before letting loose a yawn to rival that of a giant's.

“Still not sleeping?" He inquired, pivoting to join her.

“How can I?" she answered without looking. “The orb just sits there, taunting me. Staring at me, not doing anything of note. No matter the spells, the proding-“

“And the wards we put up?" He rose a brow, “I thought you were done experimenting on it alone."

“Don't go being all dad on me now." She scoffed, “I'm being careful, only looking upon it with protection spells on me. Though I swear its listening to us all the time."

“Listening?" He tilted his head; she'd never mentioned that before.

“Well, I'm not sure if it understands." She waved away his guarded look. “The mists shift when I speak to it. Twist and turn as if guided by an invisible hand or molded as a creature slithers beneath the surface. It's hard to explain, to the untrained eye it may look as if it's random, but I can feel it in my bones the response. Don't give me that look, I haven't gone crazy. I'd know if that'd happen."

“Seldom to the crazy do such a thing." He replied flatly, summoning a well-deserved frown to her lips. “Not implying you're crazy of course."

“Indeed." She composed herself with a deep breath.

“So, what brings you out here? It can't possibly have been for such vague findings like this." He folded his arms as the mage groaned and wouldn't meet his eye.

“Had to." She grumbled bitterly, “My head felt as though it was being mined by dwarves, my stomach torn by wolves. Again, don't give me that fatherly like look, I'll get sleep tonight don't you worry."

“So, you came to me for?"

“A friend can't visit another friend can she?" She spun around, blushing, hiding her need for companionship. “Besides, it's improper for one such as me to dine by myself." She looked over her shoulder as a hearty sea shanty started down below. “And I'd rather do that with someone I at least know of, instead of the mass of strangers below."

“Mass of strangers are they still? Think you'd have come to know more of them after saving them." He replied flatly, flicking his tail.

“Don't go give me that." She sighed, “Always others were better at the social aspects. What about you then, what brings you out here?" She gestured to the jelly fish, “Don't tell me its for the lovely moon soaking of the Xiiva jelly fish? Why are you not back with Tehya, cuddling- Minotaur have cuddling right? Or is it another form of wrestling?"

“We have cuddling." He replied, then explained his predicament with the chest. How he'd promised to bring back the captain.

“Well that's wonderful news." She nudged at him, “That's what has you braving this terrible weather?"

“Terrible?" He turned to her with a grin, noting how she shivered.

“Ok fine, wonderful weather." She continued with a groan. “But you have fur, it's got to be nicer for you. I still don't see the problem though-“

“Most my life has focused on getting the scrolls, then the diamonds. You spend so long locked upon that one thing, now I have the future staring me in the face. I just don't know which path to go down."

“That's the wonder of it isn't it? Not being bound to a decision?" He leaned up against him, “We could always use room in the court for a cleric of your skill if you want. Or if that's not up your fancy, we certainly have use for a tailor." Playfully jabbing him with a finger, she beamed when he smiled. “See. Its not that bad. So go and raise the captain, we got everything we need."

“But it's not that simple." He sighed, his smile fading. He explained the note and the extra diamonds, understandably bringing a troubled look to the queen's eyes.

“Who could those be for? You got one for the captain….Another for Feku's mate…"

“He was already part of the count. There is one other un accounted for."

Silence fell between them, the air turned to ice. Nivra bit her lip, turned away, a visible shadow sweeping over her soul. “Did the dragon mention who it was? You don't think it could be-“

He cut her off, slipping a comforting arm around her shoulders and pulling her tight. “It doesn't matter who." He stated bluntly, trying to stop the coming fear. “It can't be a dragon. So it must be someone we can bring back."

“I suppose you're right." She trembled in his grasp. Not from the cold, but of the terrible images her mind could concoct. In silence they stewed, focusing on the jellies in the distance, chasing away such thoughts. With every breath the weight lessened, a heart slowed, until nothing remained but the closeness between them. The wizard sighed, nestling up close, pulling his snout to face her and thanking him for his company.

“Just be thankful you caught me." He replied with a chuckle, holding her fair hand.

“Oh, well I'll be. I didn't think that you two was a bloody thing!" Aeros' loud whistle pulled their attention, turned Nivra's cheeks a deep red. “Queenie and her bodyguard, what a scandal!" The gryphon had emerged from below deck with a devious smile, walking with an awkward gait. He swayed back and forth, his eyes glazed over, his feathers ruffled, the air reeked with booze. “Not if I is one to judge of course!"

Asterion released her, she practically flung herself away. “It wasn't like that." He stated with a grunt, as Nivra dusted herself off and vouched for his statement.

“It was just cold, the sights were nice, we were thinking about the future ahead." She laughed nervously, trying to hide how red her cheeks had gotten. When the gryphon pointed it out, she fanned her face, “Oh, that's just from the cold! Don't be daft!"

“Uh-huh." He sauntered over, giving them both a knowing look. “All the tell-tale signs of a forbidden romance, you can't hide anything from me!" He chirped, giving the minotaur a salacious wink. “Quite the catch there bull man, not many say they can have a royal blow-“

“It wasn't like that." Asterion growled, clenching his fist. The gryphon snapped his beak shut, his ears splayed.

“Ok, so it wasn't like that! Can't blame one for assumin. You go and rescue the crew, its quite a romantic thing!"

“Besides, I'd have to fight Tehya for him." Nivra remarked with a tired smirk, “I'd rather not get between two minotaur."

“Tehya?" Aeros gasped dramatically, his feathers ruffling further. “Well I'll be." He whistled, “Well, good luck with that. I'd rather not have a few broken bones after such a-“ He eyed the minotaur's sling, gasping as realization struck him. “Already sampled the goods! Well I'll be!" He stumbled back with a chuckle, having to catch himself or end u sprawled out on the deck. “Evidence right there though." He placed a wing proudly to his feathery chest. “We gryphons prefer things much more comfortable."

Asterion sighed and squeezed the bridge of his snout.

The gryphon's eyes traveled to the queen. “Well, if he doesn't have your company miss blueblood. Can I request yours down in the galley?" He slid to her with a purr, raising his eyebrows in rapid succession. “I do believe I haven't properly thanked you for our rescue. Terribly sorry, won't happen again. Though honestly it's not everyday you meet a noteworthy noble, royal, whatever you want to be calling yourself."

Nivra shook her head in disbelief at his change of tune. Was it her kind deeds, or the booze hindering his judgement? Either way she pressed forward with a sympathetic sigh, laying a hand on his beak. “Are you sure you're free of the Abolyth Aeros? Quite the change of tune you have over me."

His ears splayed in embarrassment, “Clearly I misspoke before, acted like an arse. Clearly you're the diamond in the rough, the gleaming gem in a dragon's hoard, the magnificent-…" He drunkenly rolled a talon, trying to think of another romantic comparison.

“Weapon in korde's arsenal." Asterion coughed.

“That!" Aeros chirped happily, “Not what I'd have thought of, but still." He tilted and eye to Nivra, waiting for her decision. “So, what do you say?"

“Well I…" Her cheeks burned, and she wasn't quite sure from just the wind. “I have a gryphon back home Aeros." She patted his cheek with a sigh. “One most brave, handsome and ever so clever. So you can drop whatever plans you're concocting within that skull of yours."

“Me? Plans? Concocting?" The gryphon laughed, pulling back his head and placing a talon to his feathery chest. “I'd never dream of it! Though it be a shame." He clicked his tongue with a mischievous glint in his eye, “Especially with a royal that likes the feathery kind."

“You're not making your case."

“Then let me start again." He bowed his head politely, “Would you come down, fancy a drink, share a meal, maybe just possibly engage in some conversation. Just let me properly thank ya from the bottom of my heart."

“Isn't that what you wanted?" Asterion smirked when Nivra looked to him for answers. “Sounds like a reasonable request. Go on, enjoy the company, don't freeze on my account."

She thought it over, caressed her chin, her eyes traveled between the pair. Aeros stood silently, offering a forepaw for her to take. She sighed as her stomach growled, making its opinion obvious. “Fine. It would appear as I've been outvoted."

“Wonderful!" Aeros happily chirped.

“Will you be ok up here?' Nivra rested a hand on the warrior's shoulder, his fur close to freezing.

Nodding he shooed her away, amusement within his usually stoic tone. “What did I just say, have you gone conveniently deaf?"

With no more argument to be had, the warrior gave them a nod, watching as they descended the stairs. Already Aeros had struck up a conversation about a game called king's landing, something that gryphon kind over the seas had perfected. Though she might have stated otherwise, Asterion could see the interest in the future queen's eyes. He turned to the ocean when he was alone, drifting off to the future and his thoughts once more.

*

The floorboards of the bloody mermaid gave a gentle sigh, happy those souls that made her whole returned. Like happy, content children after yule time, they lay scattered about her interior. Stashed into corners, faces thrust into hammocks, half of them slept where they fell. Red cheeks and empty tankards each of them bore. The air once filled with cheerful conversation and sounds had been replaced by a symphony of snores.

Lanterns flickered from their lonely perches, hungrily awaiting oil that would never come. Tobacco and ale could be smelled from every deck, residue of a well-deserved night. Tankards and kegs lay empty, proving no match for a thirsty crew, even Achaaz had partaken, snoozing lazily, her scales mashed up against the wall, pinning at least three slumbering humans below her bulk. Her paws gently twitched as dreams of the greatest quality kept her enthralled. Ones only dragons could find pleasure in, of treasure, of hunting, and no doubt lounging around the most comforting of places.

Feku was drooped over her lyre, Tenzin tenderly holding her close. Her summoned fire had long since faded, but it had done it's intended work. Those that had been listening to her captivating music were all strew out before them, perfect examples of monks or clergy in prayer. All was at peace, there was no reason to be concerned. The only creatures stirring came from above.

Nivra sleepily dragged herself to her quarters, stepping carefully over a pair of bodies in the hall. She sighed at their expressions; tankards clenched tight in their sleepy hands. Aeros was already asleep back below her, down in the galley, surrounded by the others. Despite her reservations to join him, the gryphon had been rather polite, charming, downright pleasant if she were forced to sing. She'd found herself laughing, smiling, even snorted ale out of her nose one time. Her cheeks burned at the memory, how very much unlike the queen she wished to be.

Exhaustion had swirled around her brow, dragging her legs onward. She couldn't collapse like all those around her, she was a queen for the gods' sakes. She was of a higher breed, a tougher meddle, plus she didn't really want to embrace the rigidness of the wood. She'd never live it down! She tripped as her eyelids dragged themselves downward, sending her crashing into a wall.

She caught herself with a startled yelp, groaning as the strain flickered through her. How embarrassing! She flushed, her skin practically burning. Composing herself she dusted off her robes, carefully looking around, expecting anyone to have seen her. All she got was the empty halls, and the distant reply of snores. What a relief to her soul. She'd have to be more careful, smacking her cheek to keep her awake she continued. Her quarters were a welcome thing as she stumbled in, rocking back and forth.

Thoughts spiraled from her into the ether, tiny little whisps she could never hope to real in. She winked out the lantern of their quarters with a simple spell, enshrouding herself in the welcome darkness. Then, like a lance had pierced through her mind, she felt a calling reach out to her from beneath the orb's sheet.

Like thousands of tiny hands, it found her skin, pulling and guiding her gently towards it's splendor. Before she could object or notice, the tired queen found herself hovering over the ghostly white sphere. She'd already tossed the sheet to the floor, her eyes widely staring into the misty contents of the orb. It was captivating, held her in awe. It was all she could do to shake her head, gain control of her faculties.

Alarm coursed through her veins, gave rise to the hairs on her neck. Never before had it shown such an overpowering force. On either side of her temple, a pressure slowly built, as though someone were holding her firm. She tried to look away and found herself unable, opening her mouth to scream for help, nothing came. She was helpless as her arm slowly rose; her fingers eager to make contact.

She was losing. Whatever force was inside this orb was immensely strong, leagues beyond what had been shown. It had passed through the wards! Collecting what willpower remained within her skull she summoned it as though her life depended on it. She would not be held in sway by this artifact, a puppet to be manipulated. She was the daughter of Cornelius Graysword, apprentice to both Shandalar and Nigel, two of the best wizards in all Sethera. Her eyes narrowed in strength, though not before her fingers made contact. Cold of the bitter arctics swept up her arm, crawling with tiny claws along her flesh. She trembled and shook, it demanded she surrender. But she held firm.

“I will not crumble like some backwater magician, preforming spells for tricks. It will be the other way round you troublesome orb. You will obey my will, my wishes." She hissed through her clenched teeth, as the sensation clambered up her spine. As it made its final assault, she met it in kind, just as she'd been trained to do.

The orb flared with a blinding light, forcing the magician to shield her eyes. It burned everything away with its passing, the wood, the sheets, the books, even the hammock burned away. Night was day for the briefest of moments, then returned the overpowering darkness. All sound faded but the beating of her heart, her shallow breaths, and the distant dropping of water upon a metal basin. There was no up, no down, all she could feel was the hand's insistent squeezing all around her.

She called for help, straining her mental faculties to their breaking point. No reply was her response, only the chill of the void around her. Biting her lip she redoubled her effort, till her temples flared with piercing pain. It relented; she was left gasping. The fact she was still conscious was amazing. She hung limply in the air, searching around for any landmark or indication of where she was. Summoning a light to her hand did quite little but reveal all her features. Beyond in the inky black remained just that, an unknown expanse of mystery and dread. With a trembling arm she held, part of her wanting to scream. Was she lost? Was this a realm of shadows? Had she somehow slipped within the fey realm? The mage spun around, starting to twirl her hair.

Was she inside the orb itself? Continuing her mental battle to maintain control of herself? Had she lost? A chill ran down her spine, coiling deep within her gut. Was she going to be a prisoner here in this nothing? Never again seeing the light of day while some unknown entity jerked her body around like a puppet? She cursed under her breath. Had Sethus' kind words deceived them? His gift instead been an elaborate trap, knowing she'd be won over by praise, pride and arrogance?

She screamed as gravity reached out, reaffirming it's presence without a hint. With a gentle click of her boots on a floor she was back. Not within the bloody mermaid, but her room back in Lumara, at the heart of the castle of Entis. Her heart froze.

There was her exquisite bed with almond sheets, lovingly caressed with the tender light of a roaring fire. Stitched with gold and ending with frills, it was a perfect match for her dresser and desk. Without a word, the mage strolled in silence, finding her scrolls of numerous spells, dozens of candles with wax frozen along their sides, evidence of late nights in study. She found her stuffed animal collection, bringing red to her cheeks. She'd almost forgotten of such a thing over the years. She could smell marigolds in the air, a sign of welcoming long lost loves home. This had to be wrong right? There was no way she'd been teleported, she rose a hand, readying herself to loose a spell, just incase she was still bound within a plot.

“She walks within the place, but doesn't understand. Such a tiny and amusing thing. Almost cute if you look long enough. Are we sure it can even comprehend?" Voidwing's voice came from behind her, causing her to release a startled scream.

“Voidwing!" She exclaimed, her heart nearly racing out of her chest. How or why he was here was lost upon her, emotions winning out. With a twinkle in his apricot eye, his feathers ruffled, she shot into his delightful warmth and wrapped his neck tight. She smushed her cheek against him, uncaring how wet her eyes became. “I thought the worst of you." She squeezed tight, finding his smell and warmth ever calming to the soul. “What is going on? Why are we home?" She gently pulled back, but the gryphon hadn't responded. He stared blankly out past her, towards the city below.

“Tick tock, tick tock." He turned to her, his voice coiling like a snake. “Time's arrow marches dutifully on. The emperor's victory rests at claw, no one sees, no one sees. How clever the golden beast must be. The world of mortals falls into night, whatever will they do? Praise the sun?"

“That's just what he wants!" Came Nigel's voice with a child like glee as the lich walked through the fireplace, starting to pace, a boney hand upon his jaw.

“Nigel!" Nivra gasped, pushing back against Voidwing's feathers, her hands poised to strike. She knew his magic and skill outstripped her own, but he'd not do away with her without a fight. Trying to hide galloping of her heart, she searched the windows for an escape. For some reason they were boarded up, thick weathered wood with numerous scratches. Something wasn't right. Nigel was muttering nonsense to himself, not even looking up to acknowledge her presence. Back and forth he went, only the swishing of his robe and the tiny clacks of his shoes upon the floor.

He stopped dead in his tracks, the shadows caressing his undead face like a lover. He turned, blackened spheres instead of eyes found her. “So simple to best him, pull the thread of the plan. But no one will, its too simple, goes against your very nature! Hungry for more, hungry for power, what pride, what pride!" He snapped his fingers, continuing to pace. “The secret lies in the sea lilly, yes the sea lilly. Oh how cleverer I was. Hear that you wanna be god?" The lich rose his fist, shaking it frantically at the ceiling. His teeth now clenched; eyes narrowed. “Hidden, shielded, enshrouded by darkness, random as random can be, never be caught, never be prepared for!"

Rambling? She'd never seen him rambling, never even his old man disguise. Carefully her brow rose, her heart stilled. Somehow, she didn't think he would be harming her, he wasn't real. Someone was using his voice. “Who are you really? Why use this illusion, do you not have a voice of your own? Are you the spirit in the orb?" She took a step back from Voidwing, turning to see that he had crumbled to dust. Her heart sank, but it fueled her conviction when she turned. Though instead of Nigel and her room, she found herself back in the cave they'd found with Veledar and the others, the troll's wretched den. Veledar was sitting beside her, watching the torrential downpour from the mouth of the cave. His frilled tail was tapping, so was his paw. He stared out into the rain, a sadness held upon his snout.

“Year after year the dance goes on. Stroked and guided like a loving pet. How blind the emerald captain is, her clever schemes nothing but her own undoing. Can she see the strings around her paws? The hooks that sink deep within her flesh?" The dragon turned to her, his eyes of cerulean fire. “How do you think she'd react? Knowing she'll lose what she cares for most."

Could it hear her? Or was it deliberately ignoring her? The possibility that this spirit could very well be insane occurred to her. Either way, it wasn't making threatening gestures or displays, nor was the force trying to overpower her again. With a reserved breath she stood her ground, “I am Nivra daughter-“

“Of Cornelius Gray sword, current queen of Lumara, back from her little stint in the temple of Kitu. Please dear, the story is written, committed to memory, it was preordained long ago. Bound to the library before you were even born!" Arcturus had strolled over, caressing Veledar's snout, his ministrations turning the dragon into a puddle of purrs. “You like the lady of emerald have strings as well. Poor sister, blind as the others she looks down upon. Shame, shame, shamey shame." The bearded man turned to Nivra with a draconic eye, where a galaxy of stars swirled peacefully around.

“How do you know of these things?" She demanded, uncertain if it could read her mind. “Are you like Sethus the dragon? Who is this Lady of Emerald? What does she have to do with this Emperor?" Her mind was spinning as the Arcturus thing began to laugh, holding his belly and nearly falling over.

“What's the matter Nivra? Don't like what you hear?" Merlia stated, tilting her head with a nightmarish creek. “Or do you not understand? A brain simply too small to understand? Listen now little human. The Emperor's return grows ever close, like all the others you will be bound. Just armies of puppets to be found."

“Don't be surprised." Veledar answered, “She's only human. Such tiny minds, tinie tiny balls of fat."

She was having enough of this vague nonsense. Was this creature's mind shattered beyond belief? Or simply trying to hide a message contained within? Ladies of Emerald, Sea lilies, some Emperor? Her brow furrowed as the images of her friends began to mockingly laugh, even the fire they huddled around grew a mouth out of flames in which to add its shrill taunt.

“What do you find funny? If what you say is so vastly important, why must you hide it in nonsense? What's so bad about this Emperor? Answer me!" Her staff was suddenly in her hand, she slammed it down with a flare of white light.

The laughter died, the night grew deathly silent, even the downpour vanished. Lyndis stood, her eyes aflame, hurling a wooden bowl across the cavern. Within the reflection of her soup was a piercing, orange eye. Draconic in nature, surrounded by ragged and marred teal scales.

“He mustn't come little human. Silver tongued, charming and handsome. Not even I could resist him. Plot and scheme his children do, thinking a new prize awaits them. The answer is crueler than they could imagine, lost within their father's essence, doomed to a life of nothing. Silence. When he beckons we will answer, doomed to dance upon his tune. What hope could you have?"

Veledar stood, his tail flicking, a grim expression spread across his snout. He seemed to grow as he took powerful steps around the cavern, his horns scraping thin lines across the stone. “Sethus lies, humans die. There is no future from which that falsehood speaks. I spit my last, laying my scales and revenge on the hide of a sea lilly. Don't question and ponder, just accept and obey." He snapped to Nivra, his lips pulled back in a snarl.

Revenge? Sea Lilly? The magician took a wary step back, not sure she could trust this beast. She yelped when he snapped his jaw, making his demand again.

“Answer little mortal! Or I shall do it myself!"

“You should do it yourself." Merlia shrugged, “Too little mind to comprehend. Things like this need an intelligent paw."

When the dragon swept near her with a spine-tingling growl she leaped back, a spell failing to come to her hands. Wherever they were found, magic would not answer her. Dread sunk down it's claws as she stared into it's soul piercing eyes, knowing there was no escape. “N-Now listen right here." She stomped her foot, putting on what brave face she could. “There will be none of that, my body is my own. I'll do what you ask. You say find this Sea Lilly? That I can do. Stop this emperor? He sounds like a terrible thing. But how. You haven't said."

Veledar pulled back his head into a wretched laugh, that made the human feel small. “It's so simple. Simple plan, simply deed, so ever so small that no god would ever think. Why would they? Perfect beings, arrogant creatures, unwilling to let things go. No dragon would. Why would they? Definitely not the children of gods!" He took a powerful step towards her, the cavern floor cracked, his eyes were filled with hunger. “Can you promise the end of his plan little gnat? To trip him mere moments from success? Can we trust such important things to a human's paws?" The dragon clicked his tongue, shaking his snout. “I thinks now, thinks not. They mess it up, always do. Father always knew, smart and clever father…Not so clever though."

Sliding through the dragon's paws, Nivra avoided a gruesome end. It took all her acrobatic grace to dance around his savage limbs. When he roared, it was hard to not scream as cold wrapped tight around her, dragon fear trying to undo her mind. There was no escape her mind whispered to her. Whatever force of will this spirit possessed, would eventually get to her. Smart and clever as she was, she'd fallen into a most devious trap.

“Is this what you want to happen then? Give into instinct? What about the Emperor? Can you stop him?"

The Veledar dragon had her trapped in a corner, his crimson scales ripping apart to reveal teal beneath. His nostrils flared as a terrible silence filled the space between them and the dragon held her in a steely gaze. He had her right where he wanted her. Finally he spoke, his wings gently rippling. “You must leave little human. The urge is ever too strong. Instinct burns bright within my blood." His claws dug savage lines across the floor as a threatening growl filled the air. “Even now, every inch of me demands I take you. You must never return."

“But-ho"

“Find the Sea Lilly." He stated, flaring his wings wide. He pumped them with an angry roar, casting her away and through the wall. She plunged into darkness, breath caught in her chest, then she awoke.

Asterion was staring over her, she was back in her quarters. Feku was right beside him, her eyes wide and filled with terror. The bull brushed a hand across Nivra's brow, pressing back her hair. “Nivra? Can you speak?" He side eyed the chest at their side, wrapped tight in lengths of chain. “You've been out for a while."

“Have I?" She panted, her head throbbing. It was a chore to sit up, needles pressed against her skin. “Am I back?" She pinched herself. She yelped. It appeared to be so.

Questions came from their two snouts what had happened. She explained the surreal images she'd been subjected to and the information that had been shared with her. As she recalled the experience, she shivered and trembled, thanking Asterion when she realized it had been his quick thinking that had pulled her out from her stupor.

“Don't thank me Nivra. Thank the blessing cast upon you. Korde frowns upon such mental manipulations. It would not sit right after the adventure we've had to fall prey to such a thing." He tapped the metal chains around the chest. “Let's hope these prove more hindering than a simple sheet."

She bashfully looked away. It would appear her arrogance was taken of advantage of again. “I think if we inspect it again, we do so in pairs. It would appear a single researcher is simply too…risky to continue." The others helped her too her feet as the room spun around her. It took a few minutes of deep breath to eventually stand on her own. Even as she pondered on the spirit's request, she could feel the thoughts slipping from her fingers, like thousands of grains of sand. Feku was quick to bring her a journal.

“Lady of Emerald, Sea Lilly, Emperor." Nivra stated to herself, scribbling what she could remember on the page. “The answer is simple, no dragon would do it, especially not the children of gods."

“How very presumptuous it sounds." Asterion snorted, “I bet it's referring to dragons again. It stinks of their egotistical nature. Though I recognize one of the names. If the Emerald lady is involved, you can bet there is something nefarious at work."

“But it says she's plotting her own demise, unaware she'd to lose all she cares about." She trailed off, tapping her quill against the page. “If I remember it correctly."

“Then it sounds far worse than I could imagine." The cleric's frown deepened as Feku gave a frightened whine. He looked down to her, offering a comforting clasp on the shoulder. “Fear not though. It sounds as though this would be a challenge for the ages. By what you've said, we have something this Emperor didn't count on. Knowledge.

“And whatever this Sea Lilly is." Nivra muttered to herself, falling back into her hammock, caressing her chin. “Its paramount we find it. I fear we don't have much time to do so."

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