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Chapter 7

Without the protection of their crimson dragon, Arcturus and the knights traversed the chilly land as shadows of the night. Mug was their vanguard, the little lizard more than capable of seeing jutting rocks or uneven earth on account of his night sight. Their destination however was not one of secrets, the campfires dotted across a sea of tents, beacons within the darkness.

As they crept closer, Arcturus could feel the air of unease about them all. Before them was a great host, of every race it seemed that adorned the continent of Sethera. He spied humans along side orcs, goblins intermingling with wolven, even the larger creatures of ogres and giant among their number. They sang into the night a terrible tune, one that spoke of death and blood within the coming days. He gripped the hilt of his blade and carried on, letting it not crush his spirit.

Soon they found a patrol of guards, luckily all human or close enough. They were stunned with a smattering of bolts from Mug’s crossbow, collapsing into the snow. In a few minutes they’d stripped the men of all their dark furs and tunics, leaving them naked and tied up in the snow.

Arcturus was the first to don the dark tunic of one of them, finding the wool itchy beyond reason. It bit at his skin, and smelled like a mule’s backside. He scowled and wrapped a soiled cloak over his shoulders, spying a stain upon the cloth that he hoped was oil and not something fouler. To complete his disguise he wrapped a onyx scarf across his face, hoping to hide most his features. While he might not have been the most recognizable across the land, it was best to remove that as a possibility. After all, the easiest way to infiltrate this place, would be to do so in the guise of their mercenaries.

“So, any ideas rattling through that head of yours?” Asked the paladin as he padded over to Mug’s side, fastening his belt and scabbard around his waist.

“A few. First one involves laying down a smattering of firepower, followed by a volley of crystal grenades.” Grinned the Kobold, rolling a pair of darkened orbs between his fingers, “Then you lot can start hacking away, while I get to set a few of their tents on fire.”

He blinked, “That’s got to be the worst way of infiltrating I’ve heard.”

“You never said it had to be infiltrating shiny. You asked if I had a plan.”

“Well, we’re not going with it.”

“Fair. That’s why you’re the boss.” Shrugged Mug, “I’m just the muscle.”

“Must we wear these things?” Alonso emerged from the trees, clad in several sullied garments with one too many holes. “I look like a bloody homeless urchin.”

“If you want to get inside you would.” Arcturus gestured to the ranks upon ranks of armed mercenaries within the camp. There had to be hundreds all awake and partaking of their merriment, confident no danger would find them out here in the night.

“Rubbish is what it is.” He joined the pair, followed by the other Ruby Guardians, each with a gaze more hardened than the last.

“You’ve said very little you two.” He crouched to observe the encampment below their hill. “Since we’re about to get into the thick of it, I can’t very well call you Ruby Guardian one and two.”

“Russ.” One of the Ruby knights grunted, adjusting his ill-fitting attire. His armor, unlike the others had a smattering of mail, unfortunately sullied with blood. Russ’ beard was thick as weeds, the brightest orange Arcturus’ had seen. His brow was almost as thick, looking as though a pair of furry caterpillars were sitting just above his fierce, pale blue eyes. “I agree, this sneaking about is most unbefitting of us Arcturus. Isn’t that right Derek?”

“Of that there can be no doubt.” Replied Derek. He, unlike Russ was built like an ox, with muscles at least twice the size of Arcturus’ head. He was stuffed into clothing at least a size too small, leaving him threatening to bulge right out of the seams. Sauntering over to them his eyes were alight aflame, from the thought of sneaking about or embarrassment, Arcturus did not know. His nose was like a gnarled root from a great tree, his receding hairline covered by a fur covered hat in a variety of colors that only a mother could love.

“Nice hat.” Mug snickered, grinning as the knight’s gaze hardened. “People see a man with a hat like that, know he isn’t scared of nothing.”

“Careful kobold.” Growled the towering man as he secured his pack and belt. “I can drop kick you down the hill.”

Mug, not to be intimidated by such a remark, tapped his crossbow with a grin. “Try it pinkie. I’ll give you a few more holes on the house.”

They gnashed their teeth at one another, but Arcturus and Alonso were a bastion of calm. They silenced the trio with a hardened look.

“Like it not, we have to infiltrate the camp.” Sighed Arcturus, knowing such a thing was distasteful for knights such as these. “Fighting here is out of the question, only with finesse will we succeed.” He gestured to several of the larger tents scattered around the camp, “Its there the prisoners must be held.”

“And if they’re not?” Asked Russ, stroking his beard. “What if they’ve been carted off to another camp? We’re going all on assumption here.”

“Would you turn your back on your kin now?” Alonso asked, his brow raised, voice stern, “Or does your courage faulter under the daunting force of such an assortment below?”

The man sighed, “Fight I would Alonso, but sneak about like a common criminal? It’s not right and you know it.”

“Would you rather die like a common criminal?” Replied Arcturus firmly, “Cause this would be the only way. Stay here if you wish, but we’ll be rescuing your countrymen.” He felt the man’s resistance crumble, fading away to a begrudging nod of acceptance. Intelligence, it seemed, won this little battle with pride.

“What about the kobold?” Derek sneered, “He wears not a disguise. Won’t they be mighty curious?”

Mug dropped to his knees with large eyes, placing his two claws together. He batted his eyes, his voice turning high pitched, “Oh, have you seen dragon? I love dragon, please let me see. Or perhaps candle? I like light candle.” He rolled his eyes back to the encampment with a growl, “Please, I’ll do fine if they sniff us out. I’d be more worried about all you soft skins. You’ll most likely find yourself in the company of a bunch of vigorous men willing to fill any hole. Or, if fate is most unkind, find yourself on a one-way journey to a dragon’s gullet, alive.”

At mention of this, each of the Ruby guardians flinched and gulped, fear flaring within their eyes. Seeing no more questions to be had, Arcturus gestured over his shoulder to get the night underway. After all, they only had a limited time until someone noticed a missing patrol out in the snow.

“But what about questions.” Asked Russ, “Its not going to be long till they noticed a missing patrol.”

“Perhaps we should have thought of that before ambushing rh guards.” Alonso hissed, giving Mug an irksome glance.

The kobold shrugged, “They looked funny at me. You should be thanking me I stopped him from summoning his hoard of brothers.”

Russ was right, it wouldn’t be long. Arcturus stared, knowing what they needed was something concise and quick. He turned back, catching sight of the tied of mercenaries. The idea came to him.

“Mug, can you come here?”

The kobold groaned but complied. “I thought we were heading out, am I getting chewed out for- Hey!”

He’d grabbed his weapon and disarmed him, holding fast the kobold’s wrist as he did so. With a greater strength he maneuvered Mug’s arms behind his back.

“What gives?”

“Stay still. You won’t be like this for long. You wonder how we’ll get in with these disguises, this is how. We’ll have captured ourselves a prisoner.”

“Oh, like hell you are.” Mug struggled and hissed, “Why not tie yourself up? Oh I get it, all the humans team up on the kobold, oh how fucking typica-“ His gaze hardened as Alonso thrust a handkerchief into the kobold’s maw, moving to tie the ends behind his head.

“There we are. Enough of that.” Smiled the Ruby Guardian.

“When we get closer make sure to struggle more.” Arcturus rested a hand on the prisoner’s shoulder, “Really sell them on the idea.” The gaze he got in return was utter poison.

“So now you will have us lying?” Russ sneered, “You’re alright with this?”

“I think I know what he plans to do.” Replied Alonso, standing tall. “And to get our kin from out of their claws, seems like a small slight.”

“And besides.” Arcturus grinned, “We won’t be lying.”

** * * * * * **

Stowing the kobold’s weapon over his shoulder, Arcturus lead the others down the snow dotted path. Into the maw of the dragon some might have said. In no short order they were surrounded by the thick, pungent smells of hundreds of unwashed men, broken apart by brief moments of burning wood or ale. All around them was a cacophony of noise, roars, snarls and cheers that would pound within your skull until no thoughts could be had.

What caught Arcturus’ eye was not the gaggle of men all around him, but the lack of undead within their ranks. No wonder, he told himself. He imagined it wasn’t good for the morale of their soldiers to be around such abominations. Not just that they were dreadful to gaze upon, he imagined it would be frowned upon if one such dog slipped off it’s master’s leash and decided to go gnawing about their forces.

They did not get far before they were stopped by a grizzled minotaur bearing many scars across his chestnut fur. The rest of him was covered in dark steel plates, runes adorning the edges. He advanced with an air of authority about him, easily towering over even Derek. His gaze was piercing almost as sharp as the crème colored horns atop his head.

“What is this then?” He snorted, nostrils flaring as the beads intermixed in his braided beard clacked together. “You’re not supposed to be messing about with Raging Fire’s playthings.”

“Not plaything.” Arcturus held firm the kobold as he did his part, struggling in his grip. “Found him sniffing around the ship, no doubt taking what he wanted.”

“That right?’ Grinned the minotaur, ruffling Mug’s head with a calloused hand. “That doesn’t sound healthy for one so small as yourself. That belongs to us now.”

“Sounds like a Lumarian.” Alonso growled, “Bet he worked on the ship.

The bull’s eyes lit up, chuckling in the back of his throat. “Here I thought we got them all when they crashed. Guess the dragons going to be in good spirit when he wakes. Suppose he could always use another servant when he’s finishing interrogating the prisoners.” He gestured to a large tent behind him, enough distance from the campfires. “Put him in with the others. Settle in for the night boys, you’ve earned yourself a rest.”

“Thank you.” Arcturus bowed his head as several onlookers around grinned at their success. Breathing a sigh in relief they continued, only for the minotaur to grab him firmly by the shoulder. “Yes?”

“Take care human.” The minotaur grunted, “There’s a bunch of trolls around the tent. Be careful, don’t want them tearing you apart like the last bunch!” He gave a belly filled laugh, smacking the man across the back.

It hurt, but he returned the good cheer, thankful when they slunk away out of earshot. As the Ruby Guardians whispered about their good luck, Arcturus found his boots kicked by a kobold with a most irksome glare. He undid the handkerchief.

“Was that really needed?” Hissed Mug the moment they were out of earshot, “You know how vile that tasted?” He started to hack and spit upon the snow.

“I imagine so. I use that to wipe down my pegasus.” Replied Alonso.

“Oh, you son of a-“

Arcturus held the furious kobold back by his collar, keeping him from out right blowing their cover. He’d secured the lizard’s snout firmly before the fight had left him. “Are you mad? Get this sorted later.” The statement was stern as he gestured to a trio of trolls reclining by their own fire, eyes thankfully not upon them. The large grotesque creatures slathered in what he could only imagine was the dried blood of the previous humans who’d been by. His sigh came as no one seemed to have noticed this outburst, no guards calling for reinforcements. They were still ghosts. “Gods above if I have to separate you two again.”

“Lets see if he likes getting a horse cloth shoved in his mouth.” Hissed the kobold as he composed himself, “And when I do it, it will have a mystery residue.”

The space between themselves and the tent of prisoners was far longer than it had any right to be. Every foot of ground they covered seemed like miles as one of the trolls grunted and gazed in their direction. It growled and scratched at it’s massive belly, probably wondering if it was still hungry. Arcturus grit his teeth and pressed on, noting they had not fire to bear against these creature’s regenerative abilities. It was rumored that even a small clump was enough to eventually regrow the whole beast. He didn’t wish to test this out. Of course Mug, had different ideas.

“Wow, now aren’t they ugly.” The kobold whispered, squirming in his bindings, “Come on, loosen me up. What if they get bity?”

“Then we can handle them I’d say.” Alonso replied, shoving the little lizard forward. “Eyes front, we don’t need any more ill attention.”

When Mug tried to sputter a smart assed remark, Arcturus was there to reinforce the Ruby Guardian’s demand. He grabbed the kobold firmly by the shoulder and pressed him forward. “You heard him prisoner, do you want to be fed to the dragon?”

Thankfully this seemed to quell the troll’s suspicion, it going back to reclining upon a fallen over tree trunk, eyes drifting close to join it’s brethren in slumber. Arcturus could breathe a sigh of relief as they pressed onward, into the tent of prisoners.

Inside was a vast forest of pillars, each the size of a man. They supported a thick canvas above, stitched together with what appeared to be the quilts of a dozen villages they’d no doubt ransacked. They were stained with oil and soot, painted by in a grim light by the dim lanterns dangling below. Within such a space was the prisoners of which they sought. Gryphon, men and Minotaurs were secured to a multitude of posts, wrapped in thick chains. No limb was spared to grant them a modicum of reprieve, the bruised captives hanging limply in defeat. Across mouths and beaks were a variety of gags, ensuring not a one could even speak a word. Jumbled along with them were the wolven and men from Struport, each still clothed in the black vests known to the onyx guardians, Drenedar’s scouts and more exploratory arm.

Sitting on a solitary stool was a thick orc, adorned in tribal leathers and fur. Upon his stump of a nose was a pair of cracked glasses, either a prized treasure or something he needed. The green skin licked one of his tusks and turned the page of a book, hardly gazing upon Arcturus and the others as they entered. There he sat, weapons strapped to his waist, totally unaware until they cleared their throats. The orc’s eyes lazily traveled up, gazing upon them with as much ire as he could.

“You’re aware what hour it is?” He growled.

Arcturus nodded, “Last I recall, prisoners cared not what time it was.”

“Ah, if that isn’t the truth.” Sighed the orc, folding his book. “So what have you brought for the ole leathery wings?” At gesture to Mug he rose a brow, “This runty one? Where you gone and find this one? He’s almost cute.”

“Oh yea, say that closer and I’ll show you how cute I can be greenie.” Mug growled, snapping at the orc’s curious fingers.

“Ah a feisty one. Boss will like that. Imagine he’ll like breaking in a kobold, rumor is they always do.” Chuckled the orc, unfashioning a journal he’d secured to his waist. Along the spine he procured a quill, it’s tip already dripping with ink. “Where did you find him? It is a him right? It’s so hard to tell with the scaled ones.”

“Much as we can tell.” Replied Arcturus.

“But he’s done so much complaining, we’re convinced otherwise.” Russ laughed, nudging Derek, only to have Mug snap to them, eyes like that of the sun.

“We found this one sniffing about near the ship. You know, the Lumarian one.”

“Of course the Lumarian one.” Scoffed the Orc, “Don’t see Drenedar making those do ya? Now sniffing about Raging Fire’s rightful treasure?” He clicked his tongue as he scribbled something down in his book, “Not going to be good for ya runt. That’s our dragon’s rightful salvage it is!”

“Of course, that’s why we brought him. Figure the boss wanted to interrogate him personally.” Arcturus gestured to the others, “We’ll secure him and put him with the others.”

That’s when the orc adjusted his glasses, peering ever so carefully upon the humans before him. “Something change about you Travis?”

Travis? Arcturus froze, did this orc know the human this attire belonged to? He’d have cursed to himself if it didn’t give him away. “Nothing at all. I’m the same as I’ve always been.” Laughed the knight, trying to throw the orc off his scent. “Why you ask?”

“Cause you’re a bit shorter than you’re supposed to be. In fact.” He licked his tusks, eyes traveling to each of them. “Think the rest of your friends look a bit odd as well.”

“How so?”

“This one’s barely fitting into his clothes.” He gestured to Derek, “What kind of fool do you take me for? Guards! Guards! We have a bunch of intrud-“

Arcturus sucker punched the orc right in his throat, putting an end to whatever he was to say. As he struggled to breathe, the paladin advanced, deflecting his feeble defense and striking him again. Two blows, right to the face, forcing the guard to stumble backwards and fall ungraciously upon his stool. It exploded beneath him, leaving the orc sprawled out and panting upon the ground. But still Arcturus was not threw with him. Sliding arms around the man’s own, he secured his hands behind the orc’s head. Though his foe struggled and thrashed to escape, he was more than enough to hold him steady.

“Guar-“ The orc struggled to let out, only for Alonso to dash forward and smash the hilt of his sword against the green skin’s head. He went limp in Arcturus arms.

“Hope we didn’t cause too much a ruckus.” Arcturus grunted, helping guide the orc to the ground.

“Oh, you don’t want me drawing attention.” Grumbled Mug, “But you go off and have a brawl and that’s fine!”

“Well, it’s done now, no sense in crying about it.” Arcturus began to pat the guard down, not immediately seeing a ring of keys of which for them to use. He scowled, what sort of guard was left here without keys to his prisoner’s manacles? He looked to the prisoners, figuring that one of them could help tell him where they could be found. Even now, at the sound of their brawl, the captives had started to wake, eyes filled with questions. But that would have to wait, as a trio of troll heads made their way through the tent door.

“Oi, what’s all this then?” The lead one spoke, clearly bigger than the others and adorned with human skulls. He searched the gathered humans currently standing over the unconscious orc. “What’s with all the ruckus? What happened to Toghat?”

Shite, this is what he’d hoped to avoid. Each of these creatures was a towering mass of muscles and strength. Their claws and teeth were razor sharp, with a durability to toss out the idea of slicing them apart with martial strength. He could of enchanted his sword with flames to help, but that would defeat the entire point of having a low profile. Though at this point, would it matter?

“Just a bit of rowdiness.” He gave a fake smile, not exactly telling a lie. “You know how it is when the drinking starts. Toghat and I shared some words, ones we didn’t rather like.” As they growled, possibly not buying the story, he added a jovial laugh for good measure. “So he and I had a disagreement, I punched him in the throat. He’ll come too in the morning, sleep this entire thing off.”

Would it work? The others waited with baited breath, arms yearning to snatch their weapons at their sides. The trolls shifted with a trio of growls, each mulling over the excuse between their pointed, greasy ears. Eventually the larger of the three labored a great sigh, scratching his chin,

“Very well, just keep the ruckus down.” He gestured to the other trolls all covered in smeared blood beside him, “We’re trying to get our beauty sleep. Don’t need a gaggle of humans keeping us up.”

“That’s right.” Snarled another of the trolls as they turned to depart. “Next time we comin, we’re eating one of ya.”

The first slapped the second one as they departed, the dull smack resounding through the thin door. “I had it handled Jeff, you’re undermining me in front of the humies!”

“Sorry boss.”

Silence overtook Arcturus for a moment, disbelief over their good fortune. He eventually had to shake his head, the first to crack a smile of the bunch.

“They have beauty sleep?” Mug gasped in horror, “They get uglier than that?”

“Only the gods know.” Arcturus returned to searching the unconscious orc, starting to empty his moldy bread lined pockets. “Certainly not winning any contests.”

“How the hell would you know?” Russ chuckled, eyes not leaving the door, “You’re shagging the dragon are you not? Monsters like that be right up your alley.”

“Don’t let my dragon catch wind of such a remark.” Casually replied the knight as he fought back a wretch at the horrid smell emanating from his victim’s pockets. “His grudges rival that of the dwarf’s book of the things.”

“If you say so. Find anything mister thief?”

“Nothing.” He was forced to reply, furrowing his brow. “Who leaves a guard with no keys.”

“One who isn’t intending to let them go.” Mug added, snatching back his energy crossbow. He shouldered it with a scowl, insisting they’d thrown the weight off.

Arcturus stood tall, eyes sweeping across the prisoners. “Alonso, have you-“ The man was not at his side.

Instead the knight was busy searching through the crowd of prisoners. Eyes never resting on one for long. Panic welled within his face, color all but draining. Always was there the possibility that fate would crush his heart this day. Arcturus felt his heart tug, knowing that he was this man at one point.

“Barney!” Alonso cry came, almost cracking as the night’s uncertainty streamed down his cheeks. He practically sprinted to the side of chained up, almond-colored wolf, clad in the onyx guardian regalia. A tender hand fell against the black tip eared wolven, brushing down his gag. Before any words could be shared, the man thrust his lips against the other’s snout, eyes drifting closed as they shared an intimate embrace.

“Come on Alonso.” Russ grunted, “Time and a place man. Get your husband home and you can shag later, we got a job to do!”

“Let him be.” Arcturus remarked as the two shared sweet nothings over their concern for one another. “This is what we fight for after all, the glimmers of light within the darkness.” He padded his way to the closest prisoner, a gryphon of brown feathers along his back and neck, white fur traveling down his underside. He had darker brown colored ear tips, of which stood tall, gazing inquisitively to the approaching knight.

“So, they really bound your beak huh?” He gestured to the tight rope bindings around the gryphon’s mahogany beak. White hinds tugged against the chains around his limbs, of which formed a web of steel around his bound wings. “Let me help with that.” He procured a blade, slicing free the ropes in a single motion. Before they’d even graced the ground, the gryph was breathing a sigh of relief.

“Pray tell, are you here to murder us or kiss us?” The gryphon asked hesitantly, “For if you’d permit me, I’d prefer the later of the two.”

“No one’s here to kiss you Swiftclaw. And stop trying to trick folks into doing it.” Mug emerged from behind Arcturus with a growl.

“Mug!” The gryphon’s amber eyes lit up, his bindings ever being tested of their strength, “I thought you’d perished! It’s ever so good to see you, you foul mouthed little-“

“Hey, lets cut all the tweeting. We don’t need the sleeping beauties to come back and shank us good.” He tapped the gryphon’s hazelnut forelegs, “What’s this, indulging in a bit of bdsm?”

“Not exactly.” Swiftclaw tilted his head towards Arcturus, searching the man from boot to head. “What have you brought us here? Doesn’t look like much does he?”

Of course, the clothing in which he wore didn’t paint a pretty picture. Arcturus groaned and removed the scarf, yet the gryphon’s expression did not change.

“Yes, that’s your face.”

“Not just any face.” He sighed, “I am Arcturus Lund, I’ve come to rescue you.”

The gryphon’s ears twitched, eyes going wide. “Arcturus, Lund?” He gasped, tail flicking behind him.

“Of which there is no doubt. Though the others bear the mark of Drenedar, they come to free you and your compatriots.”

“I hope it’s just more than you. There’s a whole army outside if you didn’t notice.”

“That in fact we did, hard to miss that.” He gestured above them, “Should have a dragon coming back to aid us, should time not be on our side. Besides, couldn’t very well leave behind a friend of Skywing, not after they agreed to come here and help me.”

“Ah of course!” Swiftclaw suddenly took a deep breath, muscles tensing as he took on a more professional demeanor. His bindings strained as he grunted, clearly trying to salute with a wing. “Apologies sir. We were captured by the enemy despite our best efforts. Just so you’re aware, we fought like hell.”

“You and the others?”

“Correct, though I specifically meant my squad, gryphon squad, best darn fliers in the fleet.”

“And yet you were captured regardless.”

“Tricks sir, dastardly tricks. The dragon employed some sort of spell to rob us of our minds. Suggestion sir, we avoid the red oaf. No grantee he won’t do the same ploy again.”

He’d forgotten what it was like to be referred to the title of such. It had been so long since he’d been a member of the Lumarian navy. “Please Swiftclaw, you needn’t be so formal. Arcturus will do just fine.”

The gryphon opened and closed his beak, words momentarily robbed of him. Feathers fluffed as his wings pinned to his neck. “Must I Arcturus? It feels…Wrong…Like I’m naked and shaven before a vast number of prodding humans.”

“If we meet outside our circumstances, would you address me with my name instead?”

“Possibly. But we need to survive this night to test this thought.” The gryphon replied, shifting uncomfortably in place.

“If you need to.” Arcturus rolled his hand. “Though I haven’t been in them for years.”

“But rank never withdrawn!” Chirped Swiftclaw proudly, ears flicking tall.

“But I was exiled? Placed a bounty on my head?”

“Lies and slander sir. If anything they failed you, asking you to kill an innocent creature? Compassion within you knows no bounds.” He chuckled in his throat with a chirp, “We know how well you and Skywing got together sir, and he’s a fine judge of character, man or gryph. So if it’s all the same to you sir, you’re just as noble as before. What need do you have of us?”

“Getting you out of here for one.” He sighed, arms crossed, the Ruby Guardians confirming that the unconscious orc indeed had no keys. “It would seem your jailors come not with keys.”

“What?” Scoffed Swiftclaw, “Have you not the way to pick them?”

“I mean, I got a way.” Mug tapped at his modified crossbow with a grin, “Though I imagine you’d like your limbs attached.”

The gryphon’s brow furrowed, his ears pinned to his back. “Then it would appear you have to leave us.”

“That isn’t going to happen.” Snapped Arcturus, “If not the orc that was guarding you, did anyone else see where they keep the keys?” Under his critical gaze, the gryphon looked away in a sheepish manner.

“I do.”

“Well, then get on it then. Unless you’d rather like the idea of being tied up-“

“Well actually.” Mug snorted, “That’s an interesting-“

“Of course not.” chirped Swiftclaw, “But where they are, I assure you, you won’t enjoy.”

“Why is that? I can always just shoot-”

Arcturus sighed, “They’re with the dragon aren’t they?”

There was a pause, the gryphon not wanting admit that this was the case. Arcturus groaned and held the bridge of his nose, why was there aways a catch to these sort of things

“Let me guess, the dragon for some reason, dangles the keys on his whiskers? Probably thinking that’s the only safe place available?”

“How do you know, have you seen him?”

“No, just imagining the least convenient place. How did you even figure that out?”

“Saw him earlier, all his minions coming to gloat. Caught sight of them around his whiskers. Now, they are gold, sorta blend in with his scales. But with these eyes of mine.” The gryphon proudly held his head high, “Was no problem spotting em.”

“And where would this dragon happen to be? There is no reason to suspect he’s sleeping around this host?”

“Of that I do not know.” Swiftclaw’s reply came with a lesser spirit, “Lifting them off such a creature is a longshot sir, it’s best you just leave us here. Not ideal, but we should not all perish on such a low chance of success.”

“Stow it gryphon. Such deeds are what we were made for. I can’t very well leave you or the others here to their deaths, we’ll stay to the last minute to try and free the lot of you.” Said Arcturus, meeting the eyes of the Ruby Guardians, “Lumarian and those of Drenedar. No one is left behind if we can help it.”

“Great, you’re infected with heroism as well.” Mug sneered.

“Why are you even here then?” Alonso shot back.

“Hey, rescuing people is one thing, suicide cat and mouse with a dragon is another thing! Did you happen to see what he did to our ship? I thought Arcturus here wanted to live.”

“I never said anything about dying.” Said Arcturus sternly, “There is a time to leave and now it is not. I don’t hear shouts of intruders or even a whimper of our presence. We’ve more than enough time to do a search for this scaled beast.” The knight dragged the unconscious ork and propped him up against one of the prisoner’s posted, positioning him as though he fell asleep. To complete the illusion he opened the man’s book and placed it on his lap. “Mug, Alonso, you stay here to guard the prisoners. We don’t need to lose control of this place.”

“You got it boss. No mercs getting the prisoners on my watch.” The kobold pat his crossbow.

“And do try to talk your way out instead of just shooting. Things will get more complicated with attention.”

“You’re no fun.” He groaned.

Alosno had no objection to the assessment, but Derek and Russ were swift in lending their support.

“Can’t have you running off on your lonesome.” Grunted Derek, “Even if you’re a Lumarian bastard, three sets of eyes is better than one.”

“And should you run into trouble, three blades is the same.” Russ added, “After all, without those blasted keys, all is lost.”

Nodding and getting wishes of luck, Arcturus led the duo into the night.

** * * * * * **

Through the rest of the camp they went, quiet as mice. Arcturus could feel his heart pounding in his chest between every tent, waiting for their intrusion to be detected. It never came as they swept the vast sea of mercenaries and monsters, not finding a speck of the golden beast of which they sought. His spirits threatened to be dragged down with each passing moment, the thought of leaving the prisoners impossible to ignore.

When it seemed all hope had faded, they found a curious thing in which kept it aloft. On the outskirts of the encampment, a great distance from the closest tent, was a cube of immense size. Onyx in color, perfectly flat, it rose from the snow like a towering giant. Standing taller than three dragon’s of Veledar’s size, it loomed over them. It’s presence was otherworldly, causing eyes to drift away as though looking upon it would drive you to madness. No doubt, this was a magical thing.

“What is that you think?” Derek’s arms had dropped to his side, color draining from his face. “Some sort of demon thing? Vampire construction? I’ve never liked magic.”

“I think that’s where the dragon is.” Russ whispered, “Its bloody large enough. Do you think all of them are in there?” He shuttered at the thought, “Perhaps we’ve bitten off more than we can chew.”

Arcturus, unlike the others was not shivering in his boots, or having his senses slowly robbed of him. He was a pillar of calm in the fog of unease currently sinking it’s tendrils into the others knights. He approached with caution, careful to not have his boots crunch in the snow below him. “Leomund’s hut I think. Nivra told me about these, wizards do love to go on about their spells. Mages use these to safely rest, ones of our size able to craft havens for them and their own. It would seem if this were a dragon’s spell, it would naturally be larger.” He frowned, realizing another particular fact about the spell. To those within the spell’s confines, could see perfectly through what appeared to be solid walls.

He froze, motioning the others to do the same. Hairs on the back of his neck stood at attention, ice slipped through his veins. At any moment a dragon could come sauntering out, afflicting them with who knows what spells of breath weapons.

“You see something?” Russ grabbed his weapon, stuttering.

“To those inside, the walls are not there.”

Derek’s eyes widened, his face going white. “You mean they could be awake?”

He nodded, taking another tentative step. Perhaps the gods would be with them, those inside asleep. Eyes were locked upon the magical surface, waiting with dread for a snout to protrude with fiery eyes. Each step felt as though it took ages until he was but an arm’s reach. If this was indeed where the dragon was to be kept, this spell would keep everyone but the caster out. They’d need to bring it down. Closing his eyes, Arcturus focused on one of the spells he’d naturally prepared, whispering the needed words of power as he drew runes with his hand upon the air. Inside him warmth spread as magic twisted through his being, guided to his fingers as he reached out. At his touch the blackened surface was invaded by a piercing light, it crackled across the inky sea, spreading to it’s edges in but a breath. It exploded into thousands of fragments without a sound, fading away to nothing before they could shower upon the ground.

Revealed to them was a dragon of great size, easily twice that of Veledar from snout to tail. It’s golden scales were thick and worn, scars of previous combats worn as trophies across it’s regal snout. Powerful feathery wings were wrapped around the beast as a blanket, ivory and angelic, a deceptive trait for what this creature served. Upon it’s paws were claws sharpened to deadly intent, more than a match for basic mails employed by mortal kind. It’s whiskers wiggled as the great beast snored, a thunderous sound that seemed to shake the humans before it. Finally it’s tail was laid out like a wall, shaking with every rise and fall of the dragon’s chest.

Well, there was no going back. Arcturus scanned the beast as Derek and Russ stood frozen, either by natural fear or the dragonfear itself. It took some time but he spied the keys, safely where Swiftclaw had said. There the metal object lay, tied to one of the beasts whiskers. He groaned to himself, hoping that tidbit had been false. With a deep breath and pounding heart he advanced, praying to the gods the beast would not wake. He froze only once within this time, as a biting wind swept through the field. It ruffled cloaks and stung flesh, causing the dragon to stir.

Was this going to be it? Arcturus dared not move as the slumbering giant shifted in the snow. It’s tail flopped up and came crashing down, creating an arena of itself around the knight. When the dragon settled he continued once more, keeping his mind on the prize and all those still waiting for him. Procuring a blade he moved tentatively in, going to grasp the tiny bit of metal. Out he grasped, only for the dragon’s snore to bring the object out of reach.

He cursed, catching himself from toppling over. He doubted his luck would hold if he battered himself against the dragon. When the key came back down to taunt him, he did catch sight of what awaited him should he failed, the dragon’s great teeth, each larger than the dagger he carried. Trying again proved successful, he cut it free with but a single slash. With the key wrapped firmly within his palm he turned to depart. He froze, realizing the only way out was between the dragon’s tail and his nostrils. Why could things not be easy? When he next crept forward it was like his legs had turned to lead, each step harder than the last. He just hoped the dragon couldn’t hear how loud his heart was thumping in his chest, practically like it wished to leap on out.

When he neared the smell was overpowering, breaths tainted with the smell of fermenting meat and dragon saliva. Keeping down his stomach he did his best to avoid touching the dragon’s blunted snout, staring into those nostrils that flared in and out with every breath.

“That’s right, take all of me.” The dragon mumbled in his sleep, stopping Arcturus in his tracks.

Had he heard him? Eyes wide he waited, awkwardly with his torso leaning back. Nothing happened, the dragon continued to mumble, something about a dragon that he was clearly about to engage in carnal activities with. With a reserved breath he passed beyond the creature’s proximity, dangling the keys before Derek and Russ, both wearing faces of astonishment.

“See? Knew I could do it.” Whispered Arcturus, getting greeted with a firm clasp of his hand.

“Never doubted you.” Derek replied sternly, what astonishment gripping him faded.

Russ unsheathed a dagger and plunged it into the Arcturus’ side, a wicked grin about his face. “Here’s the reward Lumarian, couldn’t have come sooner.”

Pain lanced through his frame as the knight was shoved off the warrior’s blade. He cupped at the wound, already feeling the warmth of blood dribbling through his fingers. Why had he expected anything else? He collapsed upon the snow, barely managing to not stumble upon their golden host.

“Why.” He grit his teeth, pressing his side tight to staunch the bleeding.

“You have the need to ask that?” Derek sheathed the blade, “Lumarian coming about, mucking around our ways? Come now, you had to see this coming.”

Of course, he’d considered it, but right now? In their escape? “To think you chastised my lack of honor, and you stab a man with a dagger.”

“Dagger with poison.” He clicked his tongue with a wink. “Deadly nightshade from the base of the foggy mountains. Must grow strong there, on account of the dwarves being resistant. I’d give you minutes, enjoy what breaths you have left.”

“And what happens now? My dragon returns and finds I’m dead, not believing whatever story you tell.”

“That the dragon got you?” Russ gestured with a smirk, “Couldn’t have asked for a better circumstance. The old red beast will be rightfully anger, probably go and throw himself at this one.”

“And the others back at the city? I figure this won’t just end at me?” Already a burning sensation was spreading through his veins, slowly growing till he imagined it would be like a fire itself.

“Probably not, with you Lumarians running around.” Derek rolled his eyes, “But you’ll not be telling anyway, so why you care.”

“Give the man some respect.” Russ nudged him with a chortle, “He deserves at least that before he goes.”

“Yes, tell me everything about your plans.” Arcturus gasped, pushing himself to stand defiant.

“Oh, standing now, you’re a strong one.”

“Just if I’m to die, rather do it on my feet is all.”

“Fair enough. Just know when we’re through, you Lumarians will never step foot in our city again.”

“That’s it?” He chortled, “That’s all you got to tell me?”

“Get this Russ, deadman wants us to monologue or something for the rest of the time he’s got.”

“Lumarian joke maybe?” Laughed Russ.

“Well, it was worth a shot.” Arcturus groaned, pressing his fingers tight against the wound, pushing through the pain that stabbed at him. “Guess you’ve never tangled with a paladin before have you?”

“No.” Derek scoffed, “But not say I’m impressed. We’d never have let ya stab us first.”

“That’s the difference between us I suppose. You’re clearly devoid of honor, while myself still retain it.” With the last of his healing magic he sealed the wound they’d inflicted, and just for good measure, rid himself of what poison ran through him. He unsheathed his blade and held it aloft, his gaze just as hard. “Now I do believe we are going to have a disagreement.”

Who had once thought themselves in the superior position gasped, stumbling back as the paladin’s blade ignited with a ghostly, ivory flame. It spread it’s radiance across the snow, whispering they’d not escape his reach.

“He healed it?” Russ hissed.

“Suppose so.” Derek grit his teeth, “Doesn’t change things.” The ruby guardian composed himself in the blink of an eye, procuring a pistol from his side. “Gun beats sword Arcturus.” The barrel gleamed under the sword’s radiance.

But the man didn’t blink. He’d not consider it would he? “Fool, fire that pistol and you kill us all. The dragon won’t take too kindly to it’s sleep being disturbed.”

“Whose to say it will kill us all?” He tossed Russ the keys, never taking his eyes away. “Take them back, free the others. Tell them what we talked about.”

“Sure about this Derek?” Asked Russ, giving the man a concerned look.

“I’m sure.” He replied with a stoic nod, “If I am to die with Arcturus, It would have been a good death.”

“One with honor.” Russ nodded, sprinting off back towards the encampment.

So how long did he have? Arcturus took a step, only to be warded by a clicking tongue and waving pistol. “You have but one shot to fell me.” He growled, “Miss me or hit the wrong part, and I’ll cut you down.”

“Think I’m not good with a blade Lumarian?” Derek pulled his sword from it’s sheath, “I don’t think it will be much sport in killing a wounded man, but alas. If it must be done, it must be done. Any last words before you go?”

Before he could answer, a scream rang through the night like a lance. Of a man who found himself set aflame, his skin starting to burn like wax. There was no mistaking that it was Russ, who collapsed to the snow, an all too happy kobold currently dousing him with another plume of red-orange flames from his energy crossbow.

“Burn baby burn!” Mug cackled with glee, his goggles winking in the light.

As Derek snapped at this distraction, Arcturus made his move. He closed the distance between them in the blink of an eye. His blade rose high, the pistol tried to shift and fired. Deafening was the shot, but the Ruby Guardian had missed, Arcturus had not. The blackened blade had sliced clean through Derek’s neck, his head rolling to the ground with a sickening plop.

Arcturus stood at rest, ears ringing, blood dribbling down his sword. He’d survived and won. As Derek’s body followed his head, the knight breathed a momentary sigh of relief. Whatever scheme those two had concocted was over, now came the wondering if Alonso was part of it. But this reprieve was brought to an abrupt end as he realized their predicament.

The golden dragon behind them had stopped snoring and was beginning to shift.

** ***** * *