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Chapter 10: Dinner

Concerns that been just a faint whisper where now a nagging shout in his ear. Minute by minute he saw the aura of confidence about Lyndis fade and dull. Where once her movements carried purpose and determination, they instead were stalled and tentative. Pools of dread coiled below her amber eyes, a place the green dragon could not reach.

Across her room she paced, a trail of smudge marks hounding at her footsteps. She hadn't spoken, her lip was bit. She had taken to tapping gently at her fair chin. His words ran off her like rain against a hardened fortress. Even when he tried to hold her close, she slipped free. What was a grown dragon to do?

The servants returned to dress her, shooing him from the room with numerous sweeps of the hand. At first he tried to resist, but found them to be stronger than he'd imagined. “Of course, leave it to the dragon to undress her!"

“He was trying to get a good peak of the bits!" Chimed another, her cheeks ever reddening.

“She undressed herself!" He tried to protest, but they laughed and had none of it. Not even Lyndis' vouch for him could sway their thoughts.

“Likely story!" The lead one laughed, brandishing a towel like a whip. “There be no peeking of princess bits while we be about!"

He couldn't have stopped hisrebuttal if he tried. “I've already seen her bits. What then huh?"

The answer came in a swift push into the hallway, the door slamming against his snout. “You call THAT a GENTLEMAN Lady Lynalla?"

“Gentle dragon!" He scowled, rapping the door with his curled fist. “And there's nothing wrong with seeing your beloved naked! She's seen me naked!"

“Lady problems sir dragon?" Coughed Jeriah from behind. The guard had been so silent Cordenth nearly jumped in surprise. “Might be over steppin me bounds sir, but you seem to be making your case worse."

Was he? How he scowled at the door, brushing off his formal robes. “I don't see how. The entire castle seems to know we've already slept together."

“You have?" Jeriah stuttered, adjusting his furred hat. “That's news to me! I didn't think you'd gone that far! Suppose its only fair with dragons. Is humping a first date kind of thing with your kind?"

“Sometimes?" He shrugged, trying not to reveal his ignorance. “Depends on the female I suppose."

“Ah. Just like us. Good to know." The man smirked, “I take it lady Lynalla is a feisty one?"

“In personality or in bed?" His brow rose, falling into step as the man gestured for him to follow. “The answer is both." He eyed the man from foot to hat. Humans usually weren't so blunt with their questions. “Are you the same guard as before?"

Jeriah nodded, flicking his slightly bearded chin. “Have a hard time with the human faces?"

Looking away he hid the darker green of his frills. “I've not come to know many…"

“That's alright." The man started to adjust Cordenth's robes, making sure they were prim and proper. “Been trying to convince the rest of the staff you're male. Half of them think you're otherwise."

His tail stopped dead, yellow eyes widening into slits. “Female? Female? I can attest I'm quite male! Need I offer proof?"

“They'll be no need of that! I believe you!" Jeriah laughed, “Heard the rounds that you're to mind control, intimidate, or seduce your way through the castle!"

The green dragon sighed, claws tracing over the blackened scales atop his snout. “Seduce?"

“Yes. But one of the things dragons are most known for. Strength of arms, power of their magic, the silveryness of their tongues. The perfect combination to do any of those things, especially the seducing. Won't be seducing me dragon. Not really a fan of scales. Then again if you were a female…Maybe?"

Oh, how much work he had to do here. Granted they were not wrong in plenty of their assumptions, he could name at least two dragons that fit some of those qualities. Releasing a groan, he followed Jeriah as the man slipped below the archway down into the spiral staircase. “Hopefully, your queen isn't so ignorant."

“See that's the spirit. Leave the misses to get dressed while you dine with the queen. First rule of courting a lady in my book, always make a good impression of the mum. Win her over and you got an in. Lynalla a long dresser? You might be chattin with the queenie for a while."

Peering back only once, he smushed the unease in his gut. With how Lyndis spoke, she was most likely to insult or blow up in her mother's face. He could make a great impression before she even arrived, possibly blunt whatever blades his rogue came to dinner with. “Excellent idea." He smiled, matching the guard's stride. “And she's always been in and out of things fairly quick. How long could dressing be?"

Jeriah tossed him a knowing eye. “Seen the work goes into it mate? She's going to be there awhile. More if she struggles. Think she will?"

He groaned, rolling his eyes. Of course, she would. It was like she was allergic to the very clothes that wrapped her. Though on the plus side, he preferred her in no clothing.

Perhaps with a collar around her neck.

He shook his head as daggers kissed between his horns. When asked the matter he waved off the man. “Just the nerves." He hissed.

“Guess if you're sure. Dragon pride be another thing you're known for. Not going to ask for help?"

“Just a problem I can manage." He rubbed the scales as it slowly but surely faded away. “Nothing to fret about."

Jeriah nodded, gesturing again and leading Cordenth down from the tower and into the halls. The oil lanterns that hung there were softly glowing beacons against the encroaching shadow from outside. Anyone they passed was in silent, diligently standing at attention. Only the sound of their footfalls marked the passing of time, up and around half a dozen corners of stone. It wasn't until they passed below an oil painting of a snowy white pegasus in flight that Jeriah finally found his voice once more.

“So, how'd you meet? The princess I mean. It's not something you hear too often about. Did you kidnap her? Get her sacrificed to you by some unruly peasants? Did she stomp into your swamp or something?" Jeriah adjusted his furry cap as he scowled at the thought. “Not the cleanest of places for romance. Muds going to be getting everywhere!"

“How blatant of you to wear your prejudice." He hissed, “And it was a forest. Who'd want to roll around in the mud like some common pig?"

“That isn't what you dragon do?" Up went Jeriah's brow, “Here I thought you started rutting in the rain like wild animals."

“Well-“ He rose a finger, argument crumbling as that idea brought a rumble to his throat. “Its not something I'd do every day."

Jeriah just smirked. “Think I just planned a date did I now?"

“Perhaps. Though answer me this, does your queen share in the ignorance and prejudice on display from Ryder?"

“Queen Elizabeth?" Jeriah stopped, seeming to slink to the wall as Cordenth followed with his repeated question. “Nothing wrong to be saying about the queen I have. She's a top of the line woman she is."

“That so?" He pushed in, pressing Jeriah against the wall. “Nothing said at all of my kind?"

Cheeks reddened, “To be fair dragon, the queen and I don't talk much. I am just a normal guard and all."

“And yet you're sent to retrieved special guests." He tried to stare past those brown eyes avoiding his. They were slippery, and he knew he just had to press further. “I don't buy it."

“But I be tellin the truth! No one wanted to handle ya! Said you were too frightful. Woeful opinion if you ask me so sir, but here we are. I'd tell ya if I heard something!"

“So why volunteer?"

“Figure I get me foot in the door. Especially with Lady Lynalla taking the throne." The man smile was painted in layers of nervousness.

He released him, patting the man's uniform. “Just sucking up to those in charge huh?" His tail twitched at the thought. Perhaps this one would work better as a personal servant? Or a champion? If he were king he could have whole sects of loyal warriors!

Again, he shook his head of the thought. He had to focus on the mother and dinner, not on the future. Save his friends, bring the land back together. Nothing else was needed to be done for now. “For small talk. What do you recommend to the queen?" He rubbed his chin as they began their trip anew, sliding around a set of polished full plate mail with a pegasus engraved onto the steel.

“Small talk huh? The queen had her share of pet cats over the years. Real cute felines, perhaps share an interest in that? She had one, fluffers if I recall. Cute as a button tabby."

He shook his head.

“Okay, how about music? Loves the stuff. So many times, the lads catch a glimpse of her playing the piano in the castle. Day in and out she's stroking those ivory keys."

“How about the king?" His head tilted. Perhaps he could get that answer for Lyndis was well! “On his supposed whereabouts?"

The man pushed against him, voice in a hushed whisper. “Don't be mentioning the king alright? When is the last time at meal time you wanted to be reminded of what's missing? Use some sense good sir."

Of course, he understood the sentiment. Lucky for him no one was to mention the lack of Lyyreth or Infinity following his every move. Though even thinking back to his scholarly brother and the brash female that lead him, brought a racing chill to his heart, an empty chasm in his chest begging to be filled. “Of course. How foolish of me. I'll endeavor to mind my tongue."

“Righto. Speaking of the tongue of course-“ Jeriah turned to halt him, voice dropping to a whisper. “Can you do me a favor?"

“Favor? Man I hardly know you." He leaned back, brow raised, “What could make you so brazen as to ask?"

The man's fingertips pressed together, gently grinding at one another as his cheeks turned crimson. “Well there's some treats I'd rather not nick me self. Not so good in the sneaking into the kitchens you see."

“You're not coming in?"

“Me? No, that's just for the queen and her guests!" He curled an arm around Cordenth, dragging him closer. “I need you to be grabbing me a handful of jelly tarts. The strawberry kind, though any will do."

“Jelly tarts?" He nearly pulled back in astonishment. All this secrecy over that? “They can't be that good."

“Aye but they are."

“Nick them yourself!"

The man sighed, “Did ya not hear what I said before? Are ya going to do it or not? I'd be in your debt."

Debt over a few pastries? The idea was laughable, but the longer he stared into the puppy dog eyes of this man,the more he felt his reluctance crumbling. Rolling his eyes he chuckled, “Fine, fine. How many of the things do you require?"

“Dozen or so." The man beamed, adjusting Cordenth's robes. “Try one yourself. They're to die for."

Their banter ceased as the smiling guard brought him to a carved oak door gilded with gold. It shimmered in the lantern light like the sun, stroking Cordenth's inner draconic greed. Imagery of forests, horses, wolven, it all combined into a glorious testament to this land's people. Already it was cracked open in waiting, beckoning him forward. Jeriah wished him well, taking attention at the side, gesturing for him to enter with a wave of the hand.

“Good luck." He whispered, giving the dragon a wink before Cordenth slipped inside.

If the door was a measure of wealth than the dining hall was ever grander. What was lovingly crafted onto the door was replicated across the halls. The gold crawled like a moss, running along every buttress or corner and up to tease at crystal chandelier above. Navy blue blinds caressed the far windows of a spacious room, bearing only a lengthy table, a crackling fireplace and a piano lonesome in the corner. Any chairs that might have dwelled in such a place had all been removed, all save the one he, Lyndis, and the queen were to inhabit.

Tapestries lined what space the gold neglected, of various noble deeds or heroes of Drenedar's name. Among the wooden beams above was the enchanting smell of lilacs, intermixed with almonds. The wood that could be seen was polished and gleaming, begging to be part of a dragon's hoard.

“It figures that the dragon is the first to arrive." Queen Elizabeth mused, rolling the silver goblet she cupped between her fingers. Wrapped around her was a shimmering dress of darkened navy, golden curls stitched into every edge. Gone was the plastered makeup from before, revealing a close resemblance to his betrothed. Wrinkles traced her features, but those same amber eyes started devilishly upon his features. “How utterly typical. I can only guess my daughter is still squabbling with the servants?"

“Most likely." He chuckled nervously, tentatively striding to his chair. Down he sat without a word. “I figured I'd have better use of my time than waiting like a dog in her hall. Besides, I was told you were fair company."

Through her steeled look a smirk took shape. “Oh, how I'd not prepared for that." With a sigh she composed herself, “Now tell me dragon. Did she rid herself of her attire at the first chance she got? No reason to lie. I know her ilk."

“Moment we left your presence."

“Just like her. Brash and untamed like the wind. Eldrin always used to admire that in her. Yet look where that got us huh? Spirited youth running away to parts unknown. How she's mine I haven't the foggiest, no sense for the finer things."

“You'd be wrong on that account, for I've seen that side come peering through." His frills twitched pridefully, “Given the choice of dragons, she picked the far greater choice."

Amusement flickered behind her eyes like a flame. “Ah yes, the pride and ego of dragons. I'd nearly forgotten the texts. You hail from the forest of despair correct? The one that has the Emerald Lady within its branches?"

He nodded, “You're quite informed."

She scoffed, “Please dear, its woefully easy when your brandishing it around like a flag. I'd have to be dense to not have heard of it. Now back to my daughter and you. I assume you ferry her around on your little wings, showing her the beauty of the sky?"

He nodded, “She quite likes it. Is flying something you adore as she?"

“How utterly romantic." Her sarcasm rolled off the tongue, “Ferrying her from adventure to adventure, no consequences or responsibilities. You sound like the perfect fantasy for her childish endeavors."

Warmth filled his frills. When one put it like that, it clearly did sound like a fairy tale. “Unfortunately, we haven't shared too many adventurers. We've only just been reunited."

“Uh-huh. And how long exactly have you known her?" Her eyes grew a tad sharper. “Are we to thank you for charming her away?"

“A few months." He gave thanks as a servant in gold and blue arrived at his side, handing him a silver goblet filled with red wine. “Why do you ask?"

“Intentions." She said flatly. “Many suitors would love the hand of my daughter to be king. I suspect you fall into one such category." She took a calm sip, her eyes cooler than the arctic. “Only those of noble birth can wed my daughter. Only they would have claim to the kingdom."

How it stung at his scales, but he had a counter. “My blood predates yours, surely there is no equal in your lands?" With his chest pounding with pride as he recounted the vast network his mother possessed. “Kingdoms know no boundaries to her. Imagine that kind of thing at Drenedar's fingertips." He chuckled and rose the goblet to his lips, knowing this battle to be won. “Your nobles are of no equal when compared to the majesty of a dragon my liege. If I may be so bold, it is you that should be honored." He downed the drink with a mischievous grin, enjoying the bitterness caressing his throat.

The queen simply chuckled in amusement, victory springing to her amber pools. “How predictable of dragon kind. In your bluster you've revealed your intentions. You do intend to wed my daughter."

He sputtered into his cup of sweet wine, frills burning like lava. How'd he let himself go on about like that? He couldn't even blame it on the drink. Thoughts bounced between his horns as the woman he was supposed to charm eyed him up and down. “Well, one day perhaps, surely not now. I mean, you're queen. We'd never think of toppling you off your throne." Had the crisis been averted? Her humm and caress of the chin told otherwise. Without prompting he told of their meeting, the adventure they shared, and the romance that soon blossomed.

“In merely less than a week's time?" The queen's eyes didn't soften as she sipped, “And how old are you again Radiant Star? Four-hundred years? Five-hundred? How vast is the gap between you and my daughter?"

Again, he drank. “Only a hundred twenty-five or so. Your concern astounds me, considering your own husband is and elf." He froze, eyes turning to slits. He'd mentioned the king! How could he have been so dense! The queen must have been catching on because she drained her cup and gestured in a flash for it to be refilled.

“Well onto different topics. I've heard you like cats?" He knew it was a hard shift, but anything to draw those dagger-like eyes off him. How could he make it any worse? “Fluffy little things, heard you had a cute little tabby one? They're sort of like dragons you know. Some say the dragons of the mammal world."

The air stilled as her daggers became sharpened spears. “You mean my dear fluffers that died a fortnight ago? THAT cat?"

Shite!

He cursed Jeriah's name into his goblet. He knew someone who wasn't going to be getting any jelly tarts tonight. Though with the way the queen's brow furrowed, he'd not be getting his way either. Before he could dig himself a deeper hole, he set his drink down with a sigh, frills pinned to his snout.

“Listen, I'm terribly sorry. Clearly what advice I was given wasn't on the up and up. Could we start over?" When she didn't budge, he sighed, hopes dashed. “I understand." He stood, thanked her for the drink and went to depart. How was he supposed to tell Lyndis he'd ruined their chances with her mother?

“Stop." Her command came when he touched the door. “I've not bid you a night, nor have your words fallen on deaf ears. We may indeed start over if you wish."

They could? He spun, hiding his smirk and the way his tail bounced. “V-very well your majesty." He bowed, returning when she gestured to his empty seat.

“Though I find it amusing." She chuckled, resting her chin in her manicured fingers. “A dragon so flustered that he apologizes? Who would have thought the arrogant creatures could swallow their pride? One would think they'd write more of that in the tales."

“We can be, though I doubt having the dragon apologize makes for a good story." He slipped to his seat with burning frills, “On that note, can we keep this exchange between us? I'd rather not the kingdom to know how I blundered this up."

The queen smiled, a genuine laugh coming out as her head threw back. “And there's the true reason no one knows! No one need know the legendary beasts of old could look so foolish."

“Well why would we want that? I assume you don't like to look foolish?"

“Of course not. I'd rather be caught dead than in a muck up." Her hand went to her lips. “Apologies, evidently a bit of my daughter slipping out."

The tension established eased but a hair, allowing the dragon and queen to at least have an accord. Conversation turned to that of poetry and music, her ability to play the piano coming to the forefront of the tongue. In turn she insisted he spin her a few yarns about his love for singing opera and stagecraft. The amusement flickering about her eyes was intoxicating, drew him into speaking more. Perhaps this is why he adored Lyndis so? The beauty in her eyes as he rattled off his passions, mimicked in his own as she spoke of her love for aerial riding upon her pegasai.

“Used to be something of an expert myself you know." She gave him a sly smirk. “Could fly circles around a dragon any day of the week."

“Would you try to make that wager?" He returned hers, raising his brow.

She laughed, and so did he, hard enough that the watching servant couldn't help but smile in turn.

“Not in my day, have you seen my age?" She waved him off, but his snout leaned forward.

“Oh come now. Flying is never a thing you grow out of. I'm sure whatever the age, it'll make you feel young again."

“Ah yes." She sighed, leaning upon her palm, dreaming wistfully about days that'd passed her by. “Sometimes its like a tunnel of time, connecting two of me across the ages. You ever feel like that Radiant Star?"

“I suppose." He mused, enchanting her with the feel of curling around a cloud. Knowing that gravity was made a fool by your wings.

“But pish posh about things I can no longer-“

“You choose to not." He smirked, to his approval she returned with all the mischief that Lyndis' exuded.

“Fine. Things I choose not to do. Now about this opera-“ For countless minutes the air brimmed with their heated talk over their favorites. She listed several that'd he'd only read about or had preformed by his mother's minstrels.

“There used to be a troupe of bards that performed each year if I recall. Called themselves, Lander's Blander's." He tapped his tail as he recounted the beautiful notes. “Shame that humans have such short lives. Beauty given this form should never be forgotten."

There he froze, mid-sentence, wishing death upon himself. In all their warm talks, he'd brought it back to death. His neck nearly creaked as he tried to summon up an apology, but she'd already moved the subject along.

“You'll have to write up some sheets for me some time. Perhaps we could replicate the exact pitch and notes? How good is a dragon's memory? Could you know a song's notes just by hearing them?"

Color rushed to his membranes as she'd caught him at a loss. Never once had he thought to try that in all his life. Though now with her eagerly waving hand, he wanted to try. Thankfully, she was of the same mind.

“Lets gets some musicians in here!"

“You have musicians on command?"

Tilting her head, she gave him a devilish smirk. “Of course, I can, I'm the focken queen!". Evidently there were parts of Lyndis in her.

“Is this what you want my queen?" The servant bowed, eyeing Cordenth with a troublesome eye. Like he was the reason for the queen's relaxing nature.

“Right you are." She clapped, “Now let's get them in. I have a guest to enchant with their lovely tunes!"

Minutes passed with baited breaths after the servant had scrambled in haste. Squirming in her seat the queen's eyes brimmed with delight, practically shimmering in the light as she insisted that he'd be blown out of his chair. “Just you watch." She received another goblet of wine, “Blow whatever your equivalent for socks is right off."

When the minstrels arrived, he and the queen were in at least a bottle deep of their wine. Her speech was so enticing, and the conversation engaging enough that he simply hadn't notice as they drained their goblets. The humans looked as though they'd just had formal tire thrown upon their frames.

Navy robes adorned each of them, stitched with the royal seal of a pegasus on the breast. Gold scarfs were wrapped around their waist and necks, matching the earing's that dangled seductively to the dragon's eye. They were both men and woman that leaned back, brandishing numerous string instruments to bear. They all bowed, dipping their gilded, blue caps. With hardly a command they shot up, happily letting their musical talents flow through the air.

Notes paddled by, a river of soothing melodies and paw tapping delight. They swung and sunk their spirits into every musical flourish, letting their souls guide their practiced movements. Their instruments sung, whisked away the night's troubles and summoned the queen's bright smile. Perhaps there were things that they could enjoy together. Maybe he hadn't messed things up after all.

With every song he was clapping, heart swooning for these skilled minstrels. Perhaps it was the good atmosphere, the chanting smiles, or the ever increasingly charming queen he shared company with? It came crumbling down the moment his friends were brought into the light.

“And when I looked at you. Here comes this dragon, thinking he's some sort of friend? When he shares company with the blasted Lumarians?"

“You mean Arcturus and Veledar?" He countered with a roll of the eyes. “They're great once you get to know them."

“Bah." She scoffed. “Nothing but ruthless dogs without a shred of decency."

“That so?" He huffed, staring the blusterous Elizabeth in the eye. Not letting her get a moment of slighting against the man who'd saved a dragon. “Well I know for a fact those dogs were on a quest to put an end to that kingdom's tyranny." He tapped the table with a hand. “Even put an end to those blasted mana crystals."

His words had no effect on her steely eye. But after a moment of silence she slumped, a heavy sigh escaping her lips. “What I'd given to be told such a tale only months ago. It sounds like a story concocted by an optimist. Pair of heroes out to save all the kingdoms from each other?" Mournfully she laughed deep in her throat. “The truth is Radiant star. There is no one coming. They've won, there's no use in struggling." Stoically she rose, holding his scaled hand. “Its just time we accept the world the way it is now, surviving is the important thing."

Dumbstruck he tried to form words. This was the other half of the hero that Lyndis spoke of? Even now the spirit behind those amber pools had dulled, whatever fire she once had whisked away by fate's cruel winds. He had to do something. “You can't be saying things like that. Before you didn't count us among your number. Now wiggling might be an option."

“Such naivetés I used to share." She pat his hand softly. “But wiggling brings the coming fire, dragon. I'd rather survive to see another day. Perhaps that's why dragon's no longer soar about the sky like the birds. Prideful, never wanting to let the past go."

How the air chilled as the minstrels filed out, each sharing a sullen look. What work they'd done had been cast away, lost to the growing chasm of doubt and fear. He couldn't help but investigate the depths of his cup, admire the red droplets still clinging to the bottom. If only this were like the caldron back home, perhaps he'd have a better grasp on the future sight. Then he could better assist them. Perhaps even bring life back to this broken woman.

“Elizabeth." He whispered, forgetting about station. To his relief the scolding didn't come. “What if I had powers that could help?"

“Powers such as what?" She mused, setting a most skeptical look. “The ability to rewind time? Prevent the Lumarians from inventing their uniter? Please, I doubt even the Emerald Lady could stop them now. Just a single look and they could blow away her forest if she ever got out of line."

“Mayhaps that might be true, if she and I didn't share a single trait." He gulped down the last of his wine. “We can follow the threads of time, manipulate events to proceed how we see fit." He levied a more serious look onto her, holding her pleading eyes captive. “We will save your kingdom. Drenedar will not become some footnote in the annals of history."

“You think me some fool to be won over by stirring words and a thoughtful look." She waved dismissively at his snout. “My husband you are not. That fire in your eyes will only lead to suffering and death, trust me. Heroes don't get to live a quiet life. They always die doing what their hearts tell them." Her voice grew quiet, her hand clutching at her chest. “I have the best interest of my people at heart. Like I've always had. I don't need their approval."

He huffed away, thwarted again. “It would appear you and my mother share some values."

She chuckled, eyeing the door as her stomach growled. “What a wise dragoness. Perhaps in time you'll be joining her in that regard."

“Wise? I think you mean selfish and egotistical. Lesser creatures have no sway on her plans. Your daughter, you, even me. She holds us all in equal regard." He sighed, shifting his paws. “Tools to carry out her wishes."

Elizabeth let the air still, not uttering a word. Without warning she belted out laughing, holding her forehead. “And you're the one that wants to be king? You're not doing the best of jobs trying to sell your accomplishments. Mother who views humans as tools isn't an extraordinarily strong one."

“I'm nothing of the sort." He hissed, frills flaring on their own. “Her views are as ancient as she is." He wisely held his tongue on how ancient. “I'd like to cherish the views of our people. Just as I value the opinion of your daughter. She is one of the most delightful, thoughtful, and caring-“

“I'm focken here mother!" Lyndis kicked open the door, clad head to silk boot in her formal attire once more. “Let's get this ruddy chinwag over with!"

As the love of his life swept across the hall, he couldn't help but sigh and hold his head. Especially when the two fire driven females caught each other into a staring match. She plopped herself angrily into her seat, arm curling around Cordenth and dragging him ever closer.

“You're late." Elizabeth practically growled. “Why am I not surprised?"

“Evening to you too mother. Glad we have to get into these get-ups for a lovely roast eh?"

The queen composed herself, “Your friend and I were having a delightful chat before you blundered in. Manners I suppose are lost on you."

“Guess so." The rogue leaned, politely requesting a goblet from the servants.

The uneasy silence came rushing in, practically drawing the two woman's gazes to Cordenth scales. Each brimmed with a different fire, practically scalding the air. He tried to slink deeper into his chair, pinning his frills. Before he could even utter a defense, Lyndis already had a hand to his chest.

“You'll find he's quite good at the chatting. Ever skilled with the tongue." She gave her mother a wink, planting a smooch upon his cheek.

“Let's save the salacious tongue for rumor talk with the guests child, not spoken aloud."

Lyndis eyes rolled, “This was a mistake. Knew it the moment you wrapped me in these rags. Honestly can't you wear normal clothing?"

“This is normal clothing. Honestly, child, have these years of travel unwound everything we taught you? Show some respect for these halls!"

Sparks seemed to crackle in the air as the royal family bickered and jousted with their tongues. What drinks that were offered were downed without a thought. Still they continued until voices grew tired, and spittle dried upon their lips. The two were left scowling, exchanging glances with the door, pondering when the food would arrive to silence their distain.

“Should have just kicked us out mother if this was to be the way you acted." Lyndis hissed, leaning against Cordenth, clearly to make her mother uncomfortable. “Cordenth can take me where we want to go. Wanted to unite the kingdom, but that's a blasted pipe dream yea?"

Thankfully, whatever words that made the queen's cheeks burn were stifled down with the bursting open of the doors, the near thunderous arrival of dinner shaking the halls. Three carts lined with dozens of steel trays, topped with polished silver lids. At least a dozen servants stood at the ready, poised to reveal their waited bounty.

“The lot of you deserve a raise." Lyndis relaxed against her chair, casually twirling her goblet. “Timing of the focken gods."

Without a word the trays were lifted, revealing the scores of delectable eateries for them to sample. There were meats a plenty, from those moistened and raw, to those grilled and seared in thick sauces. Roast goose, chopped fish, even baked pig with an apple precariously in its mouth. Vegetables and fruits of a multitude of colors lay organized neatly on ivory dishes gilded around the rim, waiting with glistening skin to be devoured. All of these were arranged around the ovular plates of brown rice, that steamed on the air like little white arms of an octopus.

Already Cordenth's tail was tapping away, maw slathering in saliva. It had been so long since he'd partaken a meal suited for royalty. These days it was tavern fair, or whatever they could purchase from the shops. He couldn't help that his jaw fell open, tongue threatening drool when they started to set the dishes upon the table.

The queen must have seen the surprise in his eye for she chuckled in amusement. “And how that jaw slacks. Be careful dragon, we'd not want to ruin the good tableware. You'll excuse the excess we went to. The cooks weren't sure how much a dragon would eat. After all they say, don't deal with a dragon unless he's on a full stomach."

“Depends on how much he's hungry." He snapped his jaw, as rice and beans were piled high upon his plate, topped with a steaming haddock. He was about to dive into his plate like a ravenous dragon when a pair of wooden sticks were thrust between his fingers. “What are these?" He held the pieces of wood at his snout, snapping them in and out. “Eating implements?"

“Chopsticks. Honestly." Lyndis showed him how to use them, restraining the roll of her eye. “How could you not know? Didn't you read about the world you wanted to explore?"

“My brother was more into that sort of thing." He licked his lips, practically drooling upon his plate. “But you'll find me at least relishing for the chance to try something new." He grinned, brandishing the chopsticks like a pair of swords.

“Just try to not make a mess." Lyndis groaned as she and her mother took more formal postures.

Mess? Like he was going to make a -, the rice was trickier than he thought. It exploded on his first few attempts, all to the giggling approval of mother and daughter. Spurned on by his burning membranes he tried again and again, finally able to shove in his delectable food without resorting to his claws. While he happily chewed away at his first offering of cherry slathered fish, he promised himself to make Lyndis eat with her hands when he cooked. It would only be fair after all.

What bitterness and anger were found within their talk was swept to parts unknown with the sound of blissful feeding. Most of it was coming from him however as he tasted each delectable with pleased rumbles trickling across his throat. Though his chopsticks might have been elegant, every bit about it was the opposite. His maw smacked and chewed unabated. Though he gained their withering glances, he continued without care. He'd already been as polite and well-mannered as he'd meant to.

Their feasting ended with an exaggerated burp that shook the very chandelier. He happily crooned and smacked his belly. It had been long since he'd had food that exquisite. He considered it a reward for such selfless and noble behavior. A dragon could only go so long before getting pampered properly. With a toothpick he started to flick away food caught between his fangs, unfortunately the royal family began its squabble once more.

Lyndis cleared her chin with a handkerchief, throwing it onto the table. “Food was great as always mother, but we have no more time for games. What could you say to me that couldn't be uttered with your court? What frightens you so much that your hands tremble at the thought?"

Elizabeth hid her hands below the table. “Don't be foolish." She scoffed, “My hands don't tremble. I am the queen for gods' sakes."

“Don't be focken with me mother. I'm not stupid. I've how you look, the actions you've been taking." The air stilled, Lyndis' hand curled to a fist. “What patience I've had is worn thin. Answer my ruddy questions!"

Still the stalwart fortress held. The queen's composure returned with a sigh. Within her eye was a tiny crack, her tongue all but silent as Lyndis pushed her attack further.

“You delayed our talk until now, spill what secrets you hold! Why are we not gathering all the provinces under our bloody banner? Riding off with spears and lances to route them like the days of old? Why are you sending people away, branding loyalists like Elthian as traitors? Well? Have you not an answer?"

Her answer was short and to the point, “Lumara."

“Lumara?" Lyndis' eyes rolled. “Its always them, what did they do this time?"

“It is them why we surrendered. It is by their demand that no action be taken against the undead. Any resistance of their orders will end in the destruction of our peoples. I have boren witness to this calamity. Our soldiers have seen it fire hand, and your father was the first to ride out to meet it."

The dragon's eyes widened as a chill swept about the hall. Even he was starting to piece together what'd happened. Hesitantly his arm reached for Lyndis as a crackling pain started about his heart.

“How can one weapon cause you to surrender? I've seen their airships, the constructs, the weapons they carry. Each has been defeated or thwarted for many a year. You're telling me one caused the lot of you to hide?""

“You don't understand." The queen's fire dimmed as she seemed lost for words. For a moment she stopped, eyes full as she best chose her words. “The Rothdellians sent warnings. Informed us they were looking for the schematics on what it could be, what our enemy had planned. We could never imagine what they would do." Her eyes closed, and gulped down a lump in her throat. “Wallowdale pass is gone."

Dread curled at the base of Cordenth's tail. Surely, she didn't mean what she said. They'd merely sacked it, ran the people out of the city. Taken prisoners or something, no one could be so heartless.

“Gone?" Lyndis broke the silence, squeezing at Cordenth's leg. “Like as in…"

“Everyone." The queen said grimly. “Every defender, woman, child and man. Each of them destroyed in the blink of an eye. I was told it was like the gods themselves cast their might upon the earth that day. Then their weapon advanced with a relentless effort, ripping apart Kesgrave, Rel, and Myerspel. Craters and fractured rock were all that remains of each of them. Graveyards of the innocent given shape. Not even the birds fly over such places, it as though life itself ceases to be.

Lyndis didn't break, not even as Cordenth's heart ached. “But surely, you're still fighting this abomination? We found the plans for it! The Rothdellians must be planning something to best it! There has to be something you're doing." She banged the table, all but laughing as despair swirled around her eyes. “Of course, I've been stupid, that's were father has been. Fighting the good fight while you hold the fort." Her fist slammed against the table as the first tear rolled down her cheek. “Good ole one punch to the Lumarians." Her voice finally broke down, rivers of sorrow flowing unabated. “Like the good ole days. Good ole dad."

He sought her out like a questing knight, deflecting what meager defense she put up with a hand. When she started to sob, she'd already found her way to his chest, fingers clutching tightly against his back while staining his robe with each weakened whimper. He expected the queen to contradict or say something as her daughter quivered in his grip, yet chillingly silent she remained, even as he tenderly stroked his love's head, whispering things were going to be ok.

“As you can guess." Elizabeth continued, dabbing at her moistening eye. “He sauntered off with his lads to show them what for. Gave a rousing speech that even convinced me we could be victorious. With a wink he flew off, like all those times before. The brave king that I adored with all my heart." Her head dipped, a shadow wrapped around her. “I didn't want him to go. Begged him to stay, but he wouldn't listen." She laughed grimly, “Not when he gets like that. My fears were given shape…We were betrayed in the end. Someone knew of his coming."

She excused herself, wiping away her tears as they dribbled down the wizened queens wrinkle dotted face. Together the mother and sister sniveled and whined as an aura of misery swept over them all. It was the queen to gather his wits, dry her tears and continue. “I was told it was over in an instant. Painless if you believe it. One moment they were a beacon of hope across our skies. They had the airship within their sights. The shadows of night had all but wrapped them tight to deliver our justice to our enemy most foul. Their ship turned, powered up their weapon and obliterated them and countryside around them. So, as you see…We can't fight power of that strength. My opposition would mean the death of millions. Drenedar would cease to be."

“I understand." Lyndis said without emotion, pushing herself up with a final sniff. She thanked her mother for the food and went to depart, not even glancing up when Cordenth called out to her.

The only thing that chilled him was that soul-less look behind the eye. One of someone without a hint of hope. It gave life to his legs, rousing him to spring after her. He didn't even think that he'd snubbed the queen as the door slammed shut behind him.

Through the halls they traveled, him right upon her heels. She said nothing when he called for her. How she was a lighthouse on a crumbling shore, her light dimming and flickering with each howling gale of wind. When they returned to her room that light had extinguished, and she collapsed upon her beddings, squirming and writhing as she sobbed her heart out.

It was a heart wrenching sound that drove his scales to twitch, and caused shivers to slither down his spine. He settled onto the bed next to her, swearing to be the anchor for her to find direction in. To this she sprung to his arms, tightly wrapping him against her. Again, his head found hers as she shivered and shook, unleashing all her misery contained within.

“You always think you have so much time." She whimpered, eyes red, makeup smeared beyond recognition. “To make up for things. Lost time, things said, and actions long since taken. He was always going to be there, how could he not? All the years I could have swallowed my pride and gone back.." Up she looked, tears returning as her jaw quivered. Guilt lay painted clearly across her face. “I didn't even send message. Not even by a bloody raven."

He pulled her in, letting her spill her guts as he tenderly held her close.

“We used to fight before I left. Terrible, frightful things. Countless times I dreamed of returning and letting him know I wasn't still cross." The rogue leaned and shifted against him, staring at the star speckled sky beyond her window. “Now I'll never get that chance."

What was he to say? What words or phrases could mend the heart of one who'd lost a parent? He simply heled her closer, whispering soothing nothings across the air. Only when she turned back to him, eyes widest he'd ever seen did he speak. Gently he caressed her chin, pushed his snout closer and trapped her with a swift kiss. She returned it without even thinking, taking refuge in him amidst the troubled storm.

“Not to be presumptuous." He pulled back, tenderly brushing her hair back. Their eyes met, his a calm soothing sunrise to her sea of perpetual storms. “But I believe you once told me they always love you. No matter the decisions, or fights that we share." He flicked away one of her tears with his tongue. “Look to my mother, her troublesome brow, her legendary snarls and roars. Deep down I know she cares, even if she's terrible of showing it now." He cupped her cheek, “But your father? He didn't send assassins to hound your ever step, nor bounty hunters to bring your return." He chortled weakly, “I think it's safe to say he still loved you. Even till the end I bet he'd wait for the day to see you return to him."

Fresh the tears came as she flung herself closer to his scales. He stayed silent, a shelter within a storm as she whimpered and shook. “What good could you have been if you to remain? You'd have been killed to. Perhaps even in the same flight sent to fight this threat." Did he do well? His frills pinned to his snout as the air grew still. Maybe he crossed the line?“But what do I know really? I'm just a-“

She silenced him with a brief kiss, pulling him tight. “I know." She muttered bitterly, “You're doing fine. Just hold me."

He nodded, doing as she requested. For a time, they stayed silent, merely resting to the beating of each other's hearts. Together they eventually crawled to the edge of the bed, staring without words to the stars above. It was something to emulate, that blackened void that looked to have no end. Though even within such a place light could be found. When a chill swept through the room he lit the dried logs of the fire with a click of his fingers, filling every inch with a warm glow.

“Can you return to your true size?" she asked when he returned, curling gently around her.

He rested his snout upon her head, “Can your bed even support the weight?"

“I focken don't care. If it breaks it does, we can use the ruddy floor. I just want to feel you all around me, nothing else. You're the thing I want to hold onto right now, as everything else crumbles away."

“Are you alright?" His voice was soft.

“No…But I want you." Around his neck her arms wove themselves, sealing her request.

Unable to deny her he did as she wanted, pressing a digit to his snout. In a puff of smoke, he grew all at once, tail curling outward in time with his serpentine like neck. Loose articles of clothing were swept aside, anything on the dressers clattered uselessly to the floor by his majestic wings. The bed buckled and groaned at his sudden weight but held despite his concern. He was able to curl himself around her, pressing the still weakened half-elf to his scaled belly. With a paw he held her tight to his chest.

Soft hands found their ways to his cheeks as she shared whispered stories of her father. Of the elf that'd won the heart of her mother and taught her morals and swordsmanship. The way she spoke was like a hero of old, recounting not just his delightful times, but the ones where pride clearly wasn't the priority. Each one warmed the dragon's heart, and he was honored to listen. Not many he imagined were able to see her in such a compromised state. It was a sad treasure that he would keep to the chest, never uttering if she demanded it so.

“You should have seen him." Lyndis tearfully stared to the twinkling stars. “Arcturus would have gotten along with him."

“And of me?' He rose his head into an S, “If he were to prattle on about honor and duty I'd pass honestly. The question is though, would he accept our love?"

“Possibly?" She sighed, leaning back. “Its not that common here, but I'd like to think he would have."

It wasn't the most warming of endorsements, but it would have to do just the same. They chatted extraordinarily little for the next few minutes after, letting the sounds of their breaths mark the passage of time. “I wouldn't have yelled at him for it. I'd have left it at a disagreement to be settled another time."

She chuckled, stroking his snout. “No you wouldn't have. You'd have jousted with your tongues."

“Pity. I'm quite the jouster with my tongue." He chuckled weakly, getting a half-hearted smack in return. He pulled her closer till she started to squirm, slipping from his grasp like an eel. Her face was now of determination as she raced to her things, pulling a map from her pack and spreading it open along the floor.

“What are you doing? Were we not reminiscing and enjoying the closeness?" He curled around his neck.

“Is this an elven thing or a human thing? If so, this part of the mourning process is quite confusing."

“It's not that." She traced her fingers over the forests of her home. “There's just so much to do. You heard my mum. She can't help, or at least can't publicly. Though I bet her spirit to assist discretely is diminished completely, that means we need to look elsewhere. If I'm to honor my father, I can't stop. He never did, that means we have to find those that will."

He watched in reserved interest as the princess he cared for listed off allies and friends she could ask. Thieves, adventuring groups, Siigonis, even the kobolds were mentioned. Was this yet another way to keep her mind from settling?"

“Lyndis." He nudged at her side.

“Yes?" She didn't look up as she tried to push aside his curious snout. “I'm trying to plan." Out came a leather bound journal and a bottle of ink.

“Could it not wait until tomorrow? When the weight of today is lessened? Just look at yourself, barely even recovered from this emotional shock. How your legs shake, your hands quiver. You won't be good to anyone if you wind yourself so tight you break!"

“Nonsense. I won't bloody sna-“

He didn't avert his gaze.

“Oi, take that look else where. I know what I'm doing.

“Then why not talk to your mum so more? Convince her to help?"

“Were you not listening?" She sighed, “The woman's a lost cause."

“No." He thumped his tail, “I saw a defeated woman with no hope. Similar to one in front of me. Maybe with those roguish skills you've picked up you could sway even her guarded mind. We can't just give up because the first attempt failed. If we did that, you'd have never gotten to the orb in my mother's forest!"

“Ah yes." Lyndis slumped. “How you activated a trap."

“Yes!"

“So if you're so full of good ideas, why not have a chinwag with your mum?" She tried to push him away again, but he proved too forcefully. “Come on now."

“Not until you promise to talk to her."

“But yours-“

“I did try to talk to her. It didn't work, but I tried." He caught her chin and gently made him look her in the eye. Even now she didn't look away, staring deeply into his. His voice grew soft as he knew what he was to ask would be hard. “If not for me then do it for your father."

Her brow furrowed; a wavering tear held within. “Now that not fair."

“No, but it's something a rogue I'd know would say to me. She likes to not play fair."

Lyndis relaxed, cupping his snout. “I love you." She whispered, guiding him to her lips. Their kiss brought an end to the bitterness, if just for a solitary moment in time. When they parted, the air was ever warmer. “This rogue of yours sounds quite smart and underhanded."

“She can be at times." He warmly smirked. “But that's what I like about her. Promise me you won't lose faith in your mother."

“On one condition." Her finger met his snout, “If we have a lead before she cracks we head out. Maybe getting someone else will convince her."

He nodded softly, frills trembling. “Agreed."

So, they returned to their star gazing with little fighting, the map forgotten on the floor as she returned to her rightful place between his paws. Silence was their friend as warmth rested with them, guiding them back to sleep. Tomorrow would be a better day. Hopefully one with better luck and happier news. For now they had each other, and for this sliver of time that was all that was needed.

* * * * * * * * * * *

I hope everyone reading along is doing well. Hoping that when you like it you'll leave a comment to help further my spirit to continue on. The times around us are dark indeed and I wish that the rest of you have safe times ahead.