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Chapter 6

Dark and cold was the flight across Drenedar’s ruined fields. One might have called the snow swept lands majestic once, but now they played home to the ever heavy cloud of death. The sea of white was skewered and seared, sections of earth that were shown were blackened and rotted, as though the very life had been drained of it. The trees faired no better from the corruptive spells of the necromancers that accompanied the undead host, withering away to nothing more than frail twigs, ready to break apart at the slightest touch. The land here was cursed, would probably remain so for years ahead.

Above this dreary place flew the collection of pegasus knights and Veledar with Arcturus upon his back. The dragon found himself at the head of this strange collection, the leader some might have said. He would have been more proud of this if not for the cloud of unease that plagued both he and his knightly mate. The knights had been deathly silent around them, worried about something. The dragon was certain it was just the jitters of not having a dragon to defend them, but Arcturus was convinced it was something far worse.

The paladin held tight the saddle of his dragon mate, listening to the ruffling of his leathery membranes upon the winds. He could feel eyes upon his back with every rise and fall along the currents, souring his usual enjoyment of the freedom of being up here, dancing above the earth. When his hair would stand he’d shift towards them, certain pistols or spears to be drawn. But each time there would be nothing, the knight’s vision locked forward, was he going mad? He shook his head free of such troublesome thoughts, they were here on a mission he told himself, no one was out to get him.

Peering past red scales he distracted himself, scanning the shadow gripped landscape below. Ponds and lake’s twinkled as they passed, nothing more than pools of spilled ink themselves. Strange he knew, but unsurprising with the foul magics the necromancers employed. As he took note of all the destruction and patches of barren earth, it chilled his soul to know things would never be the same. Folks that had their homes and lands taken and destroyed, would find returning impossible. He grit his teeth, knowing this wasn’t the first time this dragon had lashed out, determined to take everything away from the people he fought.

Veledar on the other hand was taking peeks of Arcturus as he glided through the icy currents, worry lingering in his sapphire gaze. Without words he could sense the trouble within Arcturus’ heart, wishing he could cast away the concern. He gazed back up towards the blackened clouds above, thick and rolling save for a few sections where the night sky broke through. Stars tugged the dragon’s snout, old dragon’s souls his mother had used to say. He whispered a soft prayer for their safety this night, perhaps the gods granting their protection to a well-meaning dragon and his knight. For if they refused, what good were they?

“Take heart Arcturus. Far below my be dreadful, but you ride with me. In time, whatever damage Dreadflame has wrought, it will be undone and healed. The land is strong, certainly more than the nefarious machinations of a deluded dragon.”

“One can hope for such things.” Replied Arcturus softly, “You look down and hardly think things can ever go back to normal. Dreadflame returns to plague the living time and again, I’m fearful we might never stop him.”

The dragon adjusted his course, over scattered trees. Sure, he was certain they were nothing but shadows against the sky, but there was no reason to be careless. “You’ve bested him once before when he was born to this plane. You shall do so again.” He let the paladin hear a confident rumble from his breast, adoring the smile he saw it brought the man he loved.

“How can you be so certain?”

“Think Arcturus, or do I have to do that for you as well?” He rolled his eyes with a snort, “Last time you were but yourself, this time you have me to assist you.”

“But he has others at his side, an army, dragons.”

Veledar coughed, “And I suppose all our allies and other dragons don’t count in this equation?”

The man couldn’t help but smile, his concerns for now ending where Veledar began. “You very well know you and the others count.”

“Then cast aside your worries my dearest Umraadi. Tonight, we ride on winds of fortune. See the knights behind us? They are but a prelude of what is to come. Now cast your eyes forward, I do believe we’ve found what’s gotten their metal britches in a twist.”

The dragon gestured with his snout to a section of raised hills below. Here the ground had been splintered, as though a blade had swept it’s kiss across the earth. Rocks were hurled in every directions, trees uprooted and cast aside. The scar upon the land traveled for a great deal, ending in the remains of a once proud Lumarian airship.

With a deflated balloon, the vessel that once tamed the skies was little more than a corpse. Hardened planks that once bore the heavy boots of men and the claws of gryphon were now sprinkled around it’s grave. Sections of the hull had been torn apart as if by great talons, leaving exposed wires and pipes to the open air. Great turbines that had once kept it aloft now kissed the earth, broken upon gravity’s command. This ship would no longer fly, reduced to nothing more than treasure for vultures to pick from it’s bones.

Veledar tilted his wings and circled the prize, scanning across the remains for any sign of movement. Though his conviction remained strong as ever, he could sense the dread now flickering across Arcturus’ soul. Some of these people the man might have served with, taken sword up to protect. He wished they died upon impact, for he doubted getting torn apart by ravenous undead had any dignity to it. Even if they flew the Lumarian flag, they didn’t deserve that to be their fate.

“It might not mean much, but I am sorry.” Veledar said as he descended lower, his eye drawn to the tents of a nearby encampment. By it’s size, it must have been an exploratory force, not far ahead of the bulk of the army proper. “I knew you wished to find someone alive.”

The knight breathed heavy, composing himself for the task ahead. “I knew this was their fate.” He said grimly, “Seeing how it broke…I don’t know of whom could survive.”

“There are no bodies of which I can see. That has to account for something. Perhaps gryphons, if they had them, fluttered away on their wings?”

“One could hope. I would not wish to think about the alternative. But we came here with a job to do. There will be a time to mourn later, we can’t allow Lumarian weapons to fall into the hands of these monsters.”

With a final pass, it was confirmed that nothing moved below. The dragon gave the order back in a commanding tone but keeping control of his volume. The last thing he needed was the encampment learning of their arrival and worst of all, all in attendance blaming him for their reveal. He landed with a bumpy trot upon the hardened earth, still frozen despite the magic corrupting the land. Pinning his wings he surveyed his landing spot, flaring his nostrils as the smell of oil twisted about him. Another whiff brought the hint of copper, mixed with iron and earth. He hissed, there was blood within this place.

“Something caught your beasts nose?” Alonso asked, dismounting his pegasai. The knight drew his blade looking around, “Danger found us so soon?”

“Death.” Veledar growled as Arcturus undid himself from his saddle, “I can smell the blood of those that flew within this skyship. Granted, they should not have been up there, but regardless. They died.”

“I could figure that from the wreckage.” He gestured as other knights landed among them. “Doesn’t paint quite a pretty picture.”

“It certainly does not.” Arcturus said, gripping tight his shield. “Though I doubted it was going to be.”

“Silver lining perhaps, now we don’t have to worry about fighting off Lumarians for it.”

He grimaced and held tight his scabbard, cursing their inability to light a torch. It might have revealed their position to the encampment below. Worse still, there might be shadow beasts about, things lurking in the dark, waiting to pounce. Monsters that could drain a man of life and leave him empty, creating more of themselves with his death. He stuck close to Veledar as the dragon padded with him, most likely to raise his hopes at this graveyard.

“Looks like someone did us a favor.” One knight in the rear scoffed, gesturing to the ship’s wreckage, “Not a blood Lumarian alive eh? More pickings for us.”.

“Yea right.” Scoffed another, “Now we don’t need to do no asking to take their weapons.”

“Cut the chatter you two.” Alonso snapped as Arcturus grit his teeth, “Best not speak ill of the dead. Even if they were Lumarian bastards. Just take their things and we can head out, no need to linger further.”

“And they might not all be dead.” Veledar added with a growl.

“Days not over.” Shrugged the first knight with a grin, nudging at his buddy as they padded towards the ship.

“Want me to bite him?” The dragon stopped, lashing his tail. “Not too hard mind you, but enough to let him know I mean business.”

Arcturus smirked at the imagery, but buried in his gut. “I’d ask that you not, but I would not complain if you did. Though fate seems able to sort folks like that out. Let him pluck the bones of this corpse like the vulture he is.”

“Right, and we’ll pluck this place clean like the dragons we are.” The dragon rolled a paw to his chest, tilting his head as Arcturus gave him a questioning look. Like he didn’t expect him to pluck a few treasures from the wreck. “Come now Arcturus, did you think I wouldn’t? What self-respecting dragon do you take me for?”

“One that I hoped would not be peeling the treasures off the dead of my countrymen.”

“Well, you’d be wrong. It’s times like these I miss Lyndis, she’d be all for stealing from the dead, especially Lumarian-“ He closed his snout shut as Arcturus quickened his pace, clearly distressed. The dragon hissed at himself and trotted after him. “Alright, wrong choice of words. But they need not their treasures now, and I enjoy the valuable things. If you think about it in a way, they, and you should be complimented that I wish to add some of these treasures to my collections.”

“Perhaps you’d best stop before you plant a boot in your maw.”

“What does that even-“ He came to a halt as Arcturus turned, resting a hand upon his snout. Emerald seas of worry captivated the dragon, bidding his snout to close. Again, there was worry. “Arcturus I did not-“

“I know.” He sighed, drawing the dragon close, until his head met scaled nose. “Its just…hard. I’d expected to find someone alive.”

“We have not searched.” He replied as the knights carried on without them, like children with wide eyes, like presents had been laid bare before their laps.

“I know. But I need to ask a favor of you. Something that you mind find…Difficult.”

Frills flickered over what this could be. He rose his head, tilting it. “Ordering about now? Like I am one of your toy soldiers?” When Arcturus did not budge and gave him again that look, the dragon snapped away in a huff. “What is it that you ask of me?”

“I need you to keep an eye on us all.” The knight gestured, “The sky, while pleasing for my thoughts of you, could be swelling with troubles and dangers that lurk, ready to leap upon us. I request that you keep circling, scanning, invisible if need be. I’d rather us not be caught searching the wreckage with our asses hanging out.”

“Agreed, we don’t need any rogue dragons coming to mount my Umraadi’s outhanging ass.” Rumbled Veledar, with a smirk. When Arcturus didn’t share in his hilarious joke, he groaned, “Oh come now, that was funny. But if you need me to fly around playing babysitter, I suppose I can do that. Probably the best choice for the job anyway.”

He cupped the dragon’s chin with his palm, feeling the growl that came. He knew it bugged him to leave him alone, vulnerable and without his care. “I’ll be well off my Umraadi, don’t you worry.” He said softly, attracting one sapphire eye.

“You’d be more well off with my presence.”

“This is of the greatest of needs. In here I have plenty of eyes and ears, but only one dragon that has superior senses than any of us. Someone that I might add can alert me with a shift in emotions.” As the crimson snout lowered, he traced along the scales, ending with a gloved hand resting between his nostrils. There was still a hardened look, but one that would relent. “Look, if someone wicked comes-“

“Unleash my full draconic wrath.” Veledar rolled his eyes, “I do thoroughly enjoy the crackling flames.”

“Should I be concerned that you like to see humanoids burned?”

Veledar scoffed, “Only the dead Arcturus. Don’t twist my words. It’s all the fun of murder without any of the guilt. But worry not! I shall watch over you and your flock as though you were my own wrymlings. Our enemies will find me a very protective mother.” He strut a few paces before coiling back, though his words were brave, unease was painted on his snout, “But do me one thing.” He tilted his head.

“And what would that be?”

“Do and try to restrain yourself from pummeling those buffoons. I know they are quite frustrating, that the urge swells within like an untamed beast. I would have, but I don’t know my own strength. I could have killed a man, and then you’d complain to me about it.”

He smiled back, “I’ll try to do so.” When the snout came for an affectionate nuzzle, he gave him a parting kiss, wishing him luck in his watch.

“Now run along with the other children. The sooner you’re done, the sooner you’re returned to me.” He departed in a flurry of leathery wings.

Arcturus took a deep breath and steeled himself. He doubted the insides of this airship would prove more uplifting than the exterior. At least within the wreckage they’d be able to use their lights, as the occasional flash from the exposed wires painted an unsettling atmosphere. The moment he padded to the base of the ship, the knights that were rummaging through piles of debris had already gathered handfuls of weapons each. Energy crossbows, the hand variety, light crystals and even some smoke bombs. It troubled the knight as he watched them all scuttle about, children in a candy shop.

“You’d think they’d have taken them.” Alonso muttered as Arcturus joined at his side, watching his men strip their ill-gotten gains, “Though I suppose the zombies and skeletons they employ are rather lacking in the brains.”

His brow furrowed, already picturing the rotted masses dragging the remains of gryphon and man alike out. They’d be given to a necromancer and stitched to horrific new purposes. “Or they were only after spare parts.”

“That to. Though maybe they put up a fight, not immediately dying in the crash.” He gestured to a section of bulkhead, wearing the damage of an energy blast. “Unless someone fired it during the crash.”

Stoking his beard he gazed upon the blackened wood, it was as Alonso said, something wasn’t quite right. Was this perhaps a trap? Hairs stood up on his neck as he padded into the broken corridors, holding fast his unsheathed blade. He ducked below forgotten wires, methods on how to spread mana crystal’s power throughout the ship. The place was a mess, debris littered the halls, complete with entire sections caved in. Still no sign of bodies.

“Or perhaps they didn’t have the time to take everything yet. Leave tomorrow the salvaging to be done by more intelligent hands.”

“Another thought that’d crossed me.” Alonso crouched, gesturing to a torn cloth that Arcturus had not seen upon entry. It was of a navy color, caught on the sharpened edge of a section of exposed metal. “I believe a team of scouts found the vessel.” The knight’s voice grew soft, “Of our own.”

Drenedarian scouts? Arcturus grabbed hold the cloth between his fingers. “But Commander Gray said that no one was sent out. That we were the only team to salvage this ship-“

“I know, he told us that as well.” He searched the entryway, a sense of unease about him. “But I can’t help but shake that feeling. This cloth? That’s of ours.”

“Could Lumarians not have navy cloth?”

“Possibly, but not when I know we have a team of Onyx Guardians that work in this area. Wonder why they were not assigned to this task?”

He nodded softly, the pieces making sense. “So, if your guardians got to the ship and lent their assistance…”

Alonso shook his head, face growing pale, “I envy not those that were taken captive, their fate might be worse than death.”

Deeper they pushed into the wreckage, looting from what they could. Though they searched with torchlight, it did little to paint the interior in a favorable fashion. Boards were slathered with copious amounts of dried blood, accompanied with the final resting places of blades and axes. The walls were dented and slashed, the signs of a struggle from the occupants. A battle had been raged within this place, but was it before or after they had crashed? There was no sign of undead within this place. No discarded heads, chopped off limbs, everything organic had been plucked clean.

Arcturus stilled, his heart pounding in his ears, waiting for something to leap from the shadows. Had the necromancers that managed this unholy host taken the parts to be reused again? He didn’t imagine it would be too hard to stitch together more abominations to rise again and seek vengeance upon the living. But if they had been here to retrieve their body parts, why not bring others to lift the weapons? Had it been shadows?

He held a finger to his head, whispering the words he’d practiced within his book of paladins. He closed his eyes and focused on the magic available to him, trying to detect any source of undead around them. Even if the beasts could lurk within tiny cracks, he’d locate them in an instant. To his relief there was nothing, but it only left more questions on what had plagued this ship so.

Meeting his gaze, Alonso rested a gloved hand upon the wall, gazing from the broken floor to the destroyed ceiling. “You’re thinking it to. If the dragon that leads them brought this ship low, why were the weapons left?” He scoffed, “Unless we’re to believe this dragon is an absolute nob.”

“No, he’d have learned by now what our weapons can do. It must have been something else.” But what? The paladin seemed to follow the path of destruction throughout the vessel, letting the guardians behind him strip what they could. Though he tried to tell himself there still could be survivors, the bleak surroundings killed his hope with every step. He’d been a fool to think otherwise, whenever Dreadflame got involved, none were to survive. Only him. Someone had to remember the faces of the dead.

“Do you think they fought Dreadflame himself? I heard rumor of your quarrel with him back in your country.”

“Again, why, for what purpose.” He stroked his beard, admitting it could be anything, the beast after all was quite petty.

“And could he be this size? I know your ships have their weaknesses, but surely it would pack enough punch to send this scaled beast running would it not?”

He frowned, it’s energy cannons would be more than enough to give a dragon pause. Although, if he were as maneuverable as Veledar, they would prove only a slight problem for him. “If he was a dullard perhaps Alonso, but dragons are smart. Though they have silly traits and appear as beasts, they are as deadly and clever as we. Don’t forget that. It’s true the strength might have bested him, but he’d find another way.”

His hand traced the grooves of weapon marks against the walls, signs of close combat. Yet again, no hints of the undead that have plagued them. Had their been infighting among the crew? Someone that had snuck aboard to cause a ruckus? There were too many questions. He pressed into the shattered decks, hoping the answers were just around the next fragmented corner. An answer came as Alonso called to him, brandishing a Drenedarian rifle.

“Our men were here.” The ruby knight said softly, eyes tracing over the well crafted wooden stock. He turned it over, revealing a sigil engraved in a faint gold. His head sank, “Particularly a certain man.”

“And what certain men would that be?” Arcturus rose his brow, “Some at least that saw those in need and acted upon in a moral fashion. I applaud them.”

“Indeed.” He slung the rifle over his shoulder, taking a moment to compose himself. Clearly though, the rifle had shaken him, his eyes ever wide.

“You alright?”

“Fine.” Alonso sniffed, shifting the weapon. “We have a duty to do. Can’t well go worrying about things until it’s sorted.”

“Alonso-“

“I said I’m alright.” He grunted, “Lets figure why this lot even came out this far. Quite the journey when the land be held by the undead. A bit far from Lumarian border wouldn’t you say?”

“Depends.” Arcturus let the man change the subject, striding beside him in the dim halls. “Lumara considers this part of their land now. Least last I heard.”

“Hah, and yet you don’t see a speck of them trying to do any good.”

“Perhaps this was it.” He gestured, only getting a heavy scoff.

“And look how it faired. It’s unbelievable our queen surrendered to the likes of ya.”

Before Arcturus could offer a rebuttal, a squad behind them called out that there was movement. Something small, devious, and had a slippery tail. As the two knights rushed to this revelation, the cracking sound of energy crossbow fire sounded through the night. Thankfully when they arrived in a symphony of boots, no one had yet to be slain.

Guardians had pressed themselves low to get some cover, finding themselves in the ship’s mess. Tables had been overturned, broken shards no longer fitting for anything other than shielding them. Lanterns upon chains dangled above their heads, the glass that kept them shattered.

“Get down!” One guardian hissed, motioning them to do so. They obliged, moments before a trio of crossbow bolts sailed their way through the dim hall and blasted several holes in the wall behind them.

“You’re not making it any fun if you keep ducking you Drenie bastards! Can’t handle little ole me, had to go cry and get more?” Came a growl like voice from beyond the way, where Arcturus could hardly make out the glimmer of an energy crossbow. “Well don’t go pissing your britches, I can take all of ya! You hear that?”

“Theres someone who lives?” Arcturus said, keeping his head low and the grip on his shield tight. Despite the cloud of worry and hushed voices from the guardians, joy was clear within his voice.

“I’ll say so.” Groaned a guardian, nursing a bloody wound at his side. “Little bugger shot me without warning.”

“Well what did you do? If he got the welcoming I did, I could see why.”

Alonso flashed the man a hardened look, “Who cares on what happened. I only care about making sure no one dies over this. “Lumarian! We’ve come for your ship’s weapons. You can surrender if you like, or be left here for the undead! What say you?”

“What say I?” Laughed the voice, “How about option three, where I tell you all to piss off. Hey, if you stay after that, you get a new hole in your chest, free of charge.”

“What are you doing? Trying to get us killed?” Arcturus grabbed Alonso by his neck, pulling him close. “Surrender? We’re supposed to be rescuing these people!”

“He shot one of my men Arcturus, without warning. We can’t let that pass.”

“We’re in the middle of enemy territory, I think we could cut the person a little slack.” He thrust a finger to the knight’s nose, “Now I’m going to put an end to this before anyone else gets hurt in what you call diplomacy.”

“He doesn’t seem to be in the talking mood.” Replied Alonso, as the person shouted out another plethora of colorful slurs.

“Hey, boss, if the Lumara wants to step up let him.” Nodded one of the ruby guardians, motioning towards the shooter, “Sides, if they kill each other, less problems for us.”

“You’re confidence in me is astounding.” Arcturus grumbled, standing tall with his shield held tight. He spoke the words of power for a shield of faith spell, encasing him in a thin blue layer of protective energy. It would do well to defect the weapons of his people, a weakness not many were aware of. He cleared his throat and advanced with confidence, dying was certainly not the plan. “I’m sorry for the disastrous notion by the Drenedarian. We mean you no harm, I know the surroundings are frightful, what lurks outside is chilling to the core. I beseech you, we need not fight a second longer, I’m Arcturus-“

Three bolts of red energy cut him off, snapping to his shield with lightning speed. They rippled against his spell with tremendous force, lifting Arcturus up and throwing him to the floor. He managed to twist and catch himself before colliding with the ground, but shattering the wooden shield that he held. He groaned as the pain flickered through him. What by the stars was that? He had his shield up!

“Wow, you really are stupid. Just standing there, letting me shoot you. Wait till the boys back home here that. You’ll never take us alive Drenies, I can see through your lies.”

“Who’s lying?” Arcturus groaned, flipping himself over. “I was trying to settle this peacefully!”

“And I don’t give two shakes of a gryphon’s tail!” Replied the voice, wiggling his crossbow. To Arcturus’ surprise, the ejection port was twice the typical size what it was supposed to be. “Now what’s your name stupid? Surprised you’re still alive after a trio of shots like that. You happen to be a vampire or something?”

“I am a human last time I checked!” He struggled to his feat, hands raised in surrender. “I am Arcturus-

Another shot struck him square in the chest, with all the force of a giant’s punch. Though the paladin’s magical shield held, he was sent flying backwards through one of the many tables with an ear splintering crack.

“Like that one shiny? You still with us? Or do I need to set ole vanessa here to vaporize?”

That one had hurt. He spat blood upon the floor as his spell receded, the concentration on it broken. “I’m a former paladin of Lumara, Arcturus Lund!”

There was a pause as the dust around them settled into place, followed by the thud of the crossbowman’s weapon hitting the floor in surprise. “Arcturus? THE Arcturus Lund? Of the dragon hunting family?”

He struggled to stand, coughing as he dusted himself off.

“Well, why didn’t you say so you idiot! I nearly went and turned you to dust!” From the remains clambered a kobold in leathers, oil stained gloves around his claws. Cracked goggled adorned his clay colored scales, eyes of experience searching the knight from boot to heat. He carried an energy crossbow practically his size, it hummed with deadly purpose, it’s heat exhaust letting loose a thick mist. He shouldered it with a grin, nearly falling over from the thing’s weight.

He sighed, motioning to the others that things appeared to be well. “You did shoot me as I tried.”

“Well, look at the travesty you’re in Arcturus.” He whistled to the man’s armor, “Head to toe in Drenie gear, the hell they do to you? Figure it’s a story?”

“Aye.” He approached, warding the others away with a hardened gesture. “Do I know you?”

“Me? Hell no. But everyone on this board heard the rumor of the dashing knight that ran off with a dragon. Speaking of which, where did he get off to?” The kobold leaned to search behind him, “Honeymoon over already?”

He laughed, at least he wasn’t here to bring him in for being a traitor to the crown. “Somewhat, he’s flying around, keeping an eye out. You’ll forgive me, I don’t get many people tracking me down and being glad to see me.”

“I mean, it’s just good to see a trustworthy face in such a shithole place.” The kobold thumbed his chest, “Names Mug. Don’t give me that, we all get names, long story, can be told later.” He brandished his weapon as one of the guardians took a tentative step, thinking the danger had passed. “Who are the new friends? Didn’t think this was the crowd you ran with.”

“Drenedarians, they’re here to salvage the ship.”

“Oh bless my heart, I thought they cared bout us again.” He growled, pointing his weapon at them, “Any of ya steps behind here but Arcturus, you’ll wind up dead, ya hear? Not even one of you fuckers is getting this stash. Read my lips you pegasus riding fucks? Not a finger on any of my babies!”

“We already got a bunch of weapons from above you twat!” Replied one of the guardians, “You can’t possibly beat all of us!”

“Wanna bet pegasus fuckers?” Mug blasted a warning shot at the guardian’s feat, leaving nothing but a smoldering hole in the floor. All color drained from the guardian’s faces as the kobold’s snout took on a smug grin, “Oh, that’s right, all quiet now. Now, is anyone else going to disagree with me like sir brave here?” No reply came, all eyes drifting to Arcturus, “That’s right, thought not. Do yourself a favor and shove it.”

As the kobold gestured to follow, Arcturus sighed, “Just hold back for now, I’ll talk to him.” Last thing he needed was them going at each other’s throats, especially when they were supposed to be on the same side.

“Lets hope you’re true to your word.” Alonso gaze sharpened as a blade, “That you’re not running back to Lumara’s skirt.”

He threw away the accusing look and followed Mug back through where he’d been hiding. There was an alcove along the wall, a section of wood that looked rather plain. The kobold sauntered over, laying a claw upon it, a pressure plate yielding to his touch. Gears clicked and resounded through the hall as the wood started to shift.

“Smart plan Lund, let yourself talk to the crazy kobold so we can escape. Classic. They said you was a clever one. Course what do you want to do next? I got a few dozen explosives if we need to make an escape. You got pickup? I’d rather not fly on one of those pegasus things, but if that’s all we got, hell, small price to pay am I right?”

“I think you’ve come to the wrong conclusion Mug. I mean what I said.”

The kobold rolled his eyes with a sarcastic huff, “You’ve got to be kidding me. You mean you was being straight as an arrow? Sure you didn’t hit your head Lund?”

“Question is if you’d rather be saved by them or be left to be food for the undead. Their leadership didn’t expect to find any survivors. Which, you’re quite the distance from our lands.”

“Tell me about it.” Mug growled as the wall trembled and shook, the section folding in on itself to reveal a hidden compartment. “Wasn’t my idea, but the damned bird had to be a hero. Plus, hey, the pay was good, and whose going to say no to that? Isn’t that right handsome?”

Inside the compartment was an armory stuffed with every form of weapon that Lumara employed. It had mana crystals used for lighting, smoke, flashes, even some for igniting fires. Of course there were the energy crossbows as before, but among them were the heavier variants, that could loose a dozen or so bolts in but a tenth of the time. Lanterns were lit here with crystal, painting a soft white light across the packed quarters. The kobold had spread out rations and empty glass bottles, corks still stained with the red of their potions. But the paladin’s eyes were not drawn to the spoils of his people, but to the wounded gryphon currently skewered upon the wall.

It was an ivory feathered gryphon with the rear of a white tiger. Onyx feathered wings hung at his side, slathered with as much blood as the rest of him. His beak hung open as he took haggard breaths, not even registering they’d entered the room. Icy blue eyes stared towards the walls, weary and filled with pain. Where the hull had been pounded into, metal pipes had burst out and skewered his flesh. They rested in the air, covered in dried blood, how he was alive was a mystery. By all accounts he should have perished, especially if it had done so hours ago.

“Skywing!” Arcturus blurted out, losing any semblance of control. He nearly tossed the kobold aside as he raced to his friend’s side. “Why didn’t you lead with this?”

“Had more pressing matters to attend to. Besides, it’s not like he’s hanging on death’s door.” The kobold gestured to the empty bottles, “Gotta love healing potions. Though they don’t exactly help with the current predicament.”

His friend didn’t even register his arrival, the gryphon keeping to taking in his breaths. The pipes had not seemed to pierce his lungs, but they no doubt were doing a number on his insides. If not for them he imaged he’d have been healed, but the potions could not get rid of the intrusions. Each treatment would have had to been incredibly painful as the flesh healed around the pipes. It was a testament to Skywing’s strength that he was still conscious.

“By the stars why did you leave him like this?” He rested a gentle hand on the gryphon’s onyx, furry ear. It gently flicked at the touch. “It must have been agony.”

“Yea, great idea Lund, why didn’t I think about it?” Mug growled, padding over. “Oh yea, do you know how much a gryphon weighs human? I’d have gotten right on that with all three feet of me.”

“Now, now, I’ve been on a diet.” Skywing weakly chirped, pale eyes traveling between them both. As he found Arcturus the gryphon’s ears flicked, a hint of relief bubbling forth. “Mug, are the potions make me hallucinate again? Because they’re starting to get more handsome.”

“Nah fuzzbutt, went and brought back your knighty friend. Or someone using his name.”

“Arcturus?”

He kneeled down beside the gryphon, stopping him from shifting and doing more damage to himself. He gave a weak smile as the tiger like tail thumped gently against the floor. “Yea, it’s me. Brought a whole team if you’d believe it.”

“Oh you shouldn’t have. Just got a little stuck is all. No trouble, really.”

“We’re going to have to pull you free if we want to get you well.” Arcturus frowned.

Skywing’s ears splayed, “Yea, I figured. Doesn’t mean I have to like it.”

“I imagine you’ll like it more than being skewered to the floor.”

“Fair point.” The gryphon winced as Arcturus traveled about his prone form, fingers tracing over his entirety. “Careful now, everything appears to be tender. If you want to fool around that bad, we can try later, for all times sake.”

“Now I know it’s more serious than you’d share. Such a blatant crude remark is really not your style.”

The catbird flopped his head, weakly pawing at the floor with his charcoal colored forepaws. “Do sue me, my guts are a mess down there. If I wish to make light of it at your expense, grit your teeth and take it.”

“That sounds like another time.”

“I suppose it did.”

Mug was the one to cut short their banter, arms crossing his leather clad chest. “Yea, yea, you know each other. Can you help get him sorted? Skywing said you had magic hands or something? Now, granting that doesn’t imply stroking his cock, you going to help?”

“We’re going to have to pull him out.” Sighed Arcturus, “And with the damage that will do, I don’t think one or two potions is going to help.” He explained the particulars about his lay on hands, that it should do the trick. While he only had a limited reserve of energy to heal, he imagined what he had was more than enough to seal Skywing’s wounds. “Though let’s hope we don’t need more through the night, else we’ll be fresh out.”

“Oh boohoo, the Drenies won’t have a healer to tend to their booboos. I’ll go tell the lot of them to get mounted if you like.” The kobold padded his crossbow with a toothfilled grin, “Their needs don’t come before the catbird captain here.”

“Commander?” Arcturus rose his brow as Skywing chuckled softly to himself. “When did you get that promotion?”

“Self-proclaimed actually.” Responded the gryphon, “Rounded up a few dozen souls willing to help. Figured you and your own needed a bit of help. I mean, after the capital, we sort of knew how your schemes wind up transpiring.”

He chuckled softly at that, “You didn’t need to come. We already got a queen getting reinforcem-“

“You’re not going to tell me I can’t help a friend when he’s needing it.”

“I wasn’t going to. But how did you even know we needed help? We didn’t exactly send word to you.”

“I believe you’ve met the Emerald Lady?”

Of course it was going to be her, how could it not be? Arcturus scowled at the mere mention of her name. Though she’d recently given them information on what troubles they were to be having with the dragon Emperor, it didn’t mend the sins that weighed against her soul. Numerous lives had been ruined all thanks to her. “What has she done?”

“Gathering help I imagine. I owed her a favor.”

“Oh Skywing, how’d you manage that? That’s like owing one to a demon.”

“Prettiest demon if that’s the case.” Chuckled Skywing, “Dragoness returned to me my wingmates to me. When she mentioned her favor was to try and save your life, how could I not leap at the chance?” Tired eyes fell upon him as the gryphon gave a weak chirp, “I wasn’t there for you when I should have been with Selina, I figured I could be here now.”

“You already helped with that.” He replied, “You helped us find Crimson again.”

“You’ll never convince me helping you find your new squeeze once makes up for two years of absence.”

“I don’t know, after all those times back in Rothdell? We are sure I don’t owe you some?” He rested his hands upon his thighs, preparing himself for what had to come. “Now, shall we have this conversation, after we’ve freed you?”

The gryphon paused, “I was trying to delay actually…Dreadfully painful and me don’t go well together. Allergic actually.”

“Well I’m not playing nurse forever.” Mug said, “Unless you want to die there, let Arcturus help ya.”

“Nurse?” Sqwuaked Skywing, “You’re the worst nurse I’ve ever had.”

“You didn’t pay me for my kindness, you paid me to kill stuff. Speaking of which, Arcturus here wants to give all our weapons to the Drenies. Off his rocker if you ask me.”

Skywing gave the knight a skeptical look, “Is he telling the truth? You expect to just hand our weapons to them?”

“You were going to help them anyway right?” Asked Arcturus.

“We were to be helping you.”

“Me, them, same thing at the end of the day.” When the gryphon’s gaze did not soften he tried another way, “Think of it as payment for them getting us out here to save your fluffy butts.”

“Only he’s got the soft ass.” Mug growled, starting to stash a smattering of equipment into a worn leather pack. “Just saying I’m damned sure they getting none of my toys.”

“Toys now? You surprise me mug.” Skywing chuckled.

“Oh shut your beak you delirious bird. Arcturus, help him out before we see him flagging, talking about how he’s going to get humping. Best we get the real Skywing back. The one who keeps his beak shut.”

“And his paws clean.” The gryph whined, “Which I imagine are as soiled as ever.” He quivered as Arcturus gently laid hands upon his feathery neck, trying to sooth him. “Sorry for the abysmal state. It was supposed to be a triumphant reunion. Suppose I couldn’t even do this right.”

“It’s fine, you’re alive.” Arcturus replied softly, “Now, no more stalling. We must get these pipes out.” When Skywing gave a weak nod, he turned and shouted to the sapphire guardians still within the hold. He imagined they hadn’t gone far, some even padding after to hear whatever conversation they’d had. “And Mug?”

“Yea?” The kobold sneered.

“If you so much as insult them, you’ll find out why my family was feared as dragon hunters.”

Without a complaint from either of the Lumarians, the guardians surged into the room at the mention of an injured survivor. There was grumbling from them, but Alonso followed on their heels with a look could spring any soldier into action. Dozens of hands were soon upon Skywing at his order, everyone prepared to lift him up and onto the floor.

“Think he’ll survive the trip to the floor?” Asked Alonso to Arcturus, as Mug swatted away some of the guardians already starting to take from the armory. “On account of all the blood loss and all?”

Arcturus frowned at the fact of it all. He’d have to be swift, it would be painful. Skywing might even lose consciousness during the entire thing. But what choice did they have? “Of course he will, I won’t allow the other to happen.”

“Such confidence.” The ruby knight replied grimly, the face of a man who’d lost many of allies in his years. He reached into his pouches and pulled free the navy cloth they’d gotten earlier, softly brushing the surface. “I know we can sometimes misplace hope Arcturus. Wanting nothing more than to save those we care for.”

His brow rose, “I don’t know how to do otherwise Alonso. Is there something you’re not telling me about that?” He gestured to the cloth, the man quickly stashing it out of sight.

“Noth-“

“And you best not say nothing. I’ve seen that look. The one of despair, speak.”

“My husband.” The knight relented with a sigh, “A wolven, sweetest eyes, caring, kind. Bum you can bounce a-“ He composed himself, “His group was out here, keeping an eye on the movements of the undead, counting numbers, reinforcements…If they came to this place…They might be wherever they took the others…I don’t want to think that he’s….but..-“

He rested a hand on the shoulder, not caring of their little arguments in the past. All before him now was a weary, troubled man with little hope. “We found some survivors this night Alonso, perhaps we might find more in the hours ahead.”

They joined the others at Skywing’s side, just as everyone prepared for the order. Arcturus was placed close to his front, fingers digging into his furry underside. The gryphon was breathing steady, preparing himself for the realm of agony he was about to endure. Ears pinned back, his feathers shivered.

“You ready?” Asked Arcturus, “There isn’t another way.”

The gryphon slowly nodded, chomping down on a bit of cloth that had been thrust between his beak. As Arcturus gave the countdown his eyes clenched, muscles tensed, this was going to hurt.

In unison the soldiers lifted, their grunts intermixed with the muffled screams of the one they wished to help. Claws and hinds trembled as they rose, flesh tearing apart to let loose their crimson surge. Inch by inch they rose, making sure they had all semblance of control. Time seemed to slow once he was free, Arcturus wanting nothing more than to thrust him upon the floor to heal him. The second that they rested him upon the bulkhead, the knight was already reaching within himself for his healing power, the light shining off his hands as brilliant as the sun.

Tendrils of holy magic connected the two, warmth flowing like a summer’s day. Organs pierced were restored, flesh grievously tattered was stitched together by invisible hands. What color had drained from their faces and the gryphons was restored before their eyes. When Skywing took his first, coughing breath, a cloud of joy spread about them all. None more than Arcturus, who hugged his friend tightly around his neck.

“Well, if that isn’t an excellent trick.” Chirped the gryph, “I can see why the dragon and others keeps you around.”

“Few more reasons than that I imagine.”

“Now the real question.” Skywing lowered his voice, meeting Arcturus eye. There was a serious look about him, “How do I look? Patches of fur missing not that noticble?”

He laughed, “Not too worse than usual. Think you might get a scar or two.”

“Excellent.” Skywing’s ears flicked forward as he massaged his furry throat, “Some men and ladies like scars.”

Together they shared another round of relief filled laughs, ignoring the guardians who’d already started their looting anew. Some offered their gratitude, their moods clearly different from above. When they’d finished, Skywing groaned and lifted his wings, pulling Arcturus into a wing hug, accompanied with a resounding chirp.

“Thanks for getting our behinds out of the fire. For a spell I thought we were done for.”

“You’re most welcome.” He brushed blood-stained feathers as the gryphon practically buried his face into his neck. “Now, as much as I’d not mind swapping stories and hugging all night, we do have matters to attend to.”

“Course, just a little bit emotional.” He pulled back with a fluff of his wings, staring delicately at each feather. “Going to take one hell of a bath to get them clean. Those Drenies have good bath houses fit for a gryphon?”

“Doubt it.”

“Shame.” He turned to Mug, who was busy warding away guardians from his section of equipment. The gryphon bowed his head, “I owe you as much as Arcturus. If you’d not stayed with me, I’d be dead.”

“Damned right you do.” Replied the Kobold with a grunt and a smirk, “Let’s see if you can go about offering me three times the rate you did. No one mentioned I’d have to stop and play hero, that doesn’t come cheap you know!”

The gryphon chuckled, shaking his head, “And here I thought it was out of the goodness of your heart.”

Mug dismissed him with a wave, “And sully my good name boss? Nah, if anyone asks, you ordered me to stay. Can’t let it be getting out I give a damn about ya.”

“Of course, of course.” He turned to Arcturus and the Drenedarians, who had remained quite silent in this exchange. The gryphon eyed their gathered loot with much distain, his gaze narrowing like steel. “Arcturus, are you aware there are a bunch of looters in our midst?”

“Rightful salvage.” Alonso replied with a growl, “Your ship oh feather head, is smattered about the ground. Your crew dead. Think that makes it ours.”

“And I’m here to say it’s not.” Claws dragged against the wood, as Mug cackled in malevolent glee, rearming his crossbow.

“You heard the boss. Drop what you got.” Mug grinned, making sure everyone saw his sharpened teeth, “Or you get a few extra holes in ya.”

“What happened to not shooting the gift horse in the mouth?” Arcturus was between the two with his arms raised. “Skywing, I know they’re looting. But what else was there to do? We can’t let this be getting into the hands of the undead.”

Recognition spared across Skywing’s face, staring into the eyes of those that would make off with his country’s bounty. The ground on which he stood was crumbling, both in reality and metaphorically. Without their help, he would have perished. “Very well.” He groaned, “It is as you say. Drenedarians, take this as payment for our thanks that you came to rescue us.”

“Splendid.” Alonso nodded to his soldiers, getting those that had reached for their weapons to stand down. “Don’t get us wrong Lumarian, it is good to see someone alive in this wreck.”

“Even for a Lumarian? And it’s Skywing.” He spat back.

“Yea, even for a feather head as yourself. I’m not sure you got a look around topside, it’s a bloody mess.”

Skywing’s face darkened, the night’s events no doubt flashing before his eyes. “That it was.”

“What happened?” Arcturus kneeled as the gryphon sat upon his hinds, head drooping. Mug was disarmed with a halfhearted brush aside as he was currently pouting over not being able to use his weapon. Upon Skywing’s shoulder Arcturus rested his arm, seeing the despair in his friend’s eyes. “I’ve not seen a look upon you like that since the fields of twilight.”

“Hard to top that.” He shivered, “Not much can stack up against wizards controlling thousands of bodies against their will. All contorting, uncaring of what they felt, but at the same time aware of what transpired, unable to resist their master’s demand.” He shook his head, pinning his wings. “But this dragon had magic just as terrible if one figures it’s use. Men had their sanity robbed of them, overwhelmed with fright so terrible they went at each other. There was screaming, those that had called each other friends ripping, tearing at their throats. I don’t know what spared me, but I saw it all happen. We must have lost altitude as the chaos struck, smashed down to the ground.”

He stroked between his friend’s ears as he recounted the terrible fright that threatened to take even his sanity from him. It sounded as though Dreadflame had taken a way to amplify the dragon fear, a magical presence that could instill fear in any who beheld a dragon’s fury. But this was something he’d never heard of, men freezing up, running away? That was common, but to tear at each other like beasts? That was something far more insidious. With a power such as that, any army at all would be at his mercy, for their entire force would turn on each other whenever the dragon wished!

“When I came too, the ship had crashed against the earth. Mug, bless him was at my side. I could hear my men, my gryphons still alive above deck, desperately trying to get a grip on what…They’d done.” He brushed aside Arcturus’ caring hand, insisting that he continue, “But even this reprieve they were not given, the undead came for them like a pack of ravenous wolves. Even despite the Drenedarian scouts that came to aid them, it was no use. They were defeated, I heard some scream as they were dragged off. No doubt to be interrogated…Or worse.”

“Dragged off?” Alonso crouched down, his face pale. “Gryphon, you said dragged off?”

“Yes.”

“But why? Would they not simply tear them apart?” He rested a hand on the tired gryphon’s shoulder, his voice cracking, “Tell me!”

“I wish I could.” Skywing replied, his voice weak from speaking. He slid down to his belly with a weak thump of his tail. What strength he had seemed to wane, it would appear his wounds had been so grievous, that healing him had taken more out of him than he’d thought. “But you saw how I was…They didn’t exactly send me a letter of their intentions. But one would suspect they want information.”

“Information of what?”

“Troop movements, reinforcements.” Arcturus stated softly, rubbing his chin. “Dreadflame must be worried that the entirety of Lumara would have come to stop him. Lucky for his scaled hide it was but one ship.”

“We’d have blasted him from the sky.” Skywing said with a weak smile, “Though, with his power…Even that might be in question.”

“Which means if he wanted information-.” Arcturus turned to Alonso. “Those captured might draw breath…Including your husband.”

“You heard the gryphon men.” Alonso turned to his fellow guardians, eyes a sea of courage. “Out there are brothers and sisters that call our city home, held in the vile claws of our enemy. They could have left these people to perish and die, but we are people of nobility and honor. They came to help out of the good of their souls. I know we were ordered here for weapons, but how can we leave them behind? This may get me charged for disobedience, but I care not, I will go to save them, who is with me?”

“I volunteer!” Skywing chirped, raising a wing. He went to stand on all fours and collapsed to the bulkhead in a pile of feathers and fur.

“Think you’ll be sitting this one out friend. It would appear your body is not yet fully recovered.” Arcturus said, crouching beside the gryphon’s side and resting a tender hand upon his flank. “But fear not, I will go in your stead. I swear I’ll rescue as many as your flight as I can.”

Skywing smiled, ears perking up. “See? You always knew what to say to gryphons. I accept this vow of yours.”

After all was said and done, a handful of guardians had volunteered for the rescue mission. The others were to take as much of the loot as they could manage and swiftly return it to the safety of the gates. Among those going were a trio of Ruby guardians, including Alonso himself.

“Will your dragon be going with us?” Alosno came to Arcturus as they were padding to the surface, Skywing limping at the knight’s side. “He will be of great service to us.”

While that was of no question, Arcturus could not help but look to Skywing’s form and frown. Though the spell had healed him, it would have taken much from the wounded gryphon. He would be in no condition to fly, less fight or assist others in danger. “I have a task for him of greater importance.”

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

Veledar stood proudly over the ruined ship, a conquering dragon over the corrupt machines of Lumara. Months ago, such a thing would have filled him with delight. They’d stolen his book after all. But now as he gazed upon this destruction all he could do was be filled with remorse. They’d come to assist them and paid the ultimate price. They were honorable, just as much as his Arcturus. He flared his nostrils as Arcturus had come to him, a reserved look on his face. Clearly, he wanted to ask him something.

“How goes the pillaging? Those knights enjoy being carrion birds picking through this corpse? I don’t believe I’ve seen such greed twinkle in the eyes of humans before, I thought they might be part dragon.”

“Fair enough, but we have other pressing matters than the loot of some ship.” Arcturus sighed, going on about the survivors and how they might rest in an encampment below.

“So you want me to assist with this attack, burn some undead and their vile enemies.” The dragon rose his head with a rumble, chest swelling with pride. “You’ve come to the right dragon Arcturus. We will be bring swift death upon my wings, they will never know what hit them. Well, those we save will, they will sing stories about our heroics.”

“That’s not exactly what I had in mind for you.” He rested a hand upon the dragon’s scales, gesturing to Skywing. “He is a dear friend to me.”

“Yes, I remember. He helped you find me again.” The dragon flicked his tail, “Glad to see he survived.”

“Though his wounds are healed, the night has taken too much from him. Pegasus can’t carry him back to safety, nor can his wings.” Arcturus gave a heavy sigh as Veledar’s snout wrinkled, already figuring out what he’d wanted.

“So let me get this straight. You’d rather me ferry this wounded gryphon back to the fort instead of keeping watch over your little rescue party? You realize how much danger you’d be in without my presence?”

“A bit more than usual yes.”

“That’s a vast understatement.” Huffed the dragon, slinking around with a flicking tail. “There’s an entire army out there! One that also has dragons. Dragons that would probably leap at the idea to kill a Lund.”

“And if they try to kill me, I’ll just have to go right on killing them back.” He caught Veledar’s snout as it snapped to him with a growl. Some in attendance backed away, almost certain he’d be bitten. “I only trust you enough to do this Umraadi. You’re the only one that can keep him safe.”

“How jealous should I be of this gryphon” He rose his head, “Should I expect flowers? Declarations of your love for him?”

“Veledar.”

There was pause as they shared a knowing look. This was not a time for their games or bickering. The dragon labored a sigh, “I suppose I could give the ole kittybird a lift. Guess it’s only fair I can add more to the list of people who owe me.”

“Thank-“

“And don’t think I’m giving him a discount. I’m sorry, but even friends of yours must pay full price for my services.”

“You service people now?” The knight’s brow rose as he smiled, earning him a playful growl in return.

“You know well what I mean. Just don’t go thinking these new Ruby, metal skirt wearing men can replace me.”

“Never in a thousand years.” Laughed Arcturus, “Just means I’ll have to be more careful than I’ve been as of late. No dragon watching over me.”

“I’ll say, it’s a very exhausting job. Day in and out, it’s like you wish to throw yourself against the world.” Down went his snout, into Arcturus’ hands. There their heads gently connected, a reserved silence enwrapping them both. “I wish to not return and know you perished because you asked the wrong mercenary for help.”

“Alonso and a trio of Ruby guardians will be at my side, plus Mug, a kobold we found below.”

“Mug?” Grumbled the dragon, “What sort of name is that? It’s like his parents were not even trying.”

“That isn’t the point.” He replied, softly kissing the dragon’s nose to reassure him. “We’ll be alright.”

“I still don’t like it.”

“If it bothers you so, drop him off and come rushing back quick as you like. Just use the bond to find me.”

“I better well.” Veledar huffed, “With my luck, by the time I arrive, the entire encampment will know you’re coming. I’ll have to swoop in, clear a path, because you couldn’t keep your nose down.”

Arcturus cupped his jaw , “Would you want it any other way? More obstacles for the grand Crimson Sky to overcome.”

His tail swayed, betraying his regal nature. “Couse not, I’d want it done right. No tales were ever spun over everything going to plan.” He unfurled his wings giving them a test flap against the cold air. “Well, lets get this over with.”

Mug padded over, his rifle slung on his back, the muzzle nearly dragging against the ground. His pack was jingling from the various weapons he’d stashed inside “Nice dragon Arcturus.” He whistled, searching Veledar from snout to tail. “You don’t see that every day, he fast?”

“I certainly would think so.” Veledar replied, his chest swelled as he growled at this little scaled beast. “Mug I presume? Or were the other names already taken?”

“Says the Crimson Guy.” He clicked his tongue.

“It’s Crimson Sky.” Growled Veledar.

“Yea, isn’t that what I said?” He waved off the dragon, patting a stone fashioned to his belt, a magical rune engraved upon it. “Arcturus, ship’s crystal is ready to blow on your order. It will be quite the show. Last thing the Drenies need is a few energy cannons bringing down their precious walls.”

“And the weapons?” Asked Arcturus, eying the pegasus getting loaded with their loot. “I hope you didn’t set those to self-destruct as well?”

The kobold waved him off with a deep chuckle, “Fun as that would be seeing the look on their faces, no.”

“At least you had the restraint for that.”

“You’re no fun. Same as commander feathers.” Mug sneered, “Mark my words human, they’ll be using them on us before this be through. You’ll be kicking yourself for not letting me get creative with our gifts.”

“Yea, last thing we need is it blowing up in our faces. This is supposed to be about alliances.”

“Never works out like that in reality. Someone somewhere is always worried about politics.” He thumbed his chest, “That’s why I shoot everyone equally.”

“I’ll keep that in mind, but someone has to start somewhere. Lumara has a lot to answer for.” He rested a hand on Veledar’s side, wishing the dragon well in his flight. He got a nuzzle back with a deep rumble but stifled under the critical gaze of their kobold companion.

“Arcturus, question for ya.” The kobold checked over his satchels, “What’s your knightly opinion on setting men on fire?” He gestured to Veledar, “On account of your fancy horse here.”

Veledar growled, lashing his tail, delighted it widened the kobold’s eyes, “Watch yourself whelp.”

“Arcturus! Your pet, he’s threatening me!”

“And he’ll continue doing so.” Veledar snarled, practically setting the air aflame with his gaze, “He isn’t some master in which I obey. I do whatever my heart desires…For instance.” He lashed his tail, “Have I ever mentioned that kobold tastes rather delicious?”

“Very funny.” Mug dusted off his cloak, trying to hide how his tail shivered. “Just get Skywing to safety will ya?”