FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Chapter 34

Arcturus found himself blinking ever rapidly, a gentle pressure about his temples. He was held in Veledar’s grasp, a paw wrapped around his back. Their heads were pressed together, a final tribute should they have perished. The man found his heart beating ever faster as he caressed the dragon’s crimson snout. Were they dead? Was this the afterlife? He was certain there had been an all-consuming explosion, yet there was no sign there had been one.

Searching around faired him no better, all that remained were hoards of people, looks of bewilderment on their faces. Some were hugging, kissing loved ones, others had dropped to their knees in a combination of prayer and sobbing to whomever would listen. They had been facing down a certain doom with no hope of escape, and yet here they were breathing in the afternoon breeze.

“Arcturus…Am I wrong in hearing that everyone survived?” Veledar asked, pulling away his snout to survey the area. “Or am I suffering a last moment of life delusion?”

Taking a deep breath, the air was sweet, like that of a freshly rained day. In fact, gone was the cold and shadow of winter’s embrace and instead replaced with the soothing touch of spring. Above the sun was shining bright, bringing warmth and hope through the smattering of clouds above. The knight couldn’t help but chuckle to himself, relief washing over them, by some miracle they had survived. “I think, I think we’re alive!” He grabbed hold of Veledar’s snout, pulling the dragon into a kiss faster than the beast could grumble.

“Are you certain, it feels like a dream.” He asked when they parted, dropping down to his belly so that the man could traverse his scales to his back. “There was an explosion that was going to destroy everything.”

“Yet, here we are, laughing about it.”

“See, that’s what I mean, it feels like we’re in the afterlife.”

“You must have a boring imagination if you think this is an afterlife.” Arcturus slung one leg over his love, taking his proper place. If they were going to get more information about what happened, it wasn’t going to be here.

“I don’t know, you’re here.” Rumbled the dragon as he rose and flicked his tail in amusement. “It got one part right, it’s not exact but its good enough.”

“What are the other parts?”

Veledar gave a lustful lick, the emotions trembling down Arcturus’ spine, “Oh, nothing in particular.”

“How sweet, but I believe we have a mystery to solve.”

Veledar fluffed his wings in a dragon shrug, casting off his thoughts, “Strange magic, miracle like coincidence? I’m going to wager that it was a certain magical acquaintance of ours.”

“I don’t think Fremra has that level of power.”

“Florimel. It reeks of his involvement. I’ll take pride in that my life was considered worthy enough to have been brought back by a storyteller. They’re supposed to not interfere, I knew that old man had good taste.”

“I doubt he’d bring all of this back simply for your sake.” He rose a palm to cut off the coming groan, “Although that’s because he fails to see how delightful and great you are.”

“I love you Umraadi.” The dragon smiled, spreading his wings, and giving them a test flap. “Question is, where did the old man get off to?”

He looked around, unable to resist the gentle smile that so many relieved faces brought. “With his power I doubt we could find him, but I’d very much like to thank him.”

Taking flight around the city proved that it had been restored to it’s entirety. The damage that the undead siege had brought upon the populace seemingly undone. The streets were pristine, wood was restored, there wasn’t a blemish that could be seen from their height. Out before them stretched the swath countryside of bright greens and golds, broken apart by patches of royal blue. Snow had been beaten back by whatever magic Florimel had cast, leaving new life in it’s wake. Everywhere the red dragon and knight did visit, they got cheers and waves in their name. Arcturus found himself giving into the dragon’s delight beating in his chest, wishing all below well.

An hour later when they returned to the city gates, the answer to where Florimel was had not been answered. No matter where they asked, there was no sign of the blue robed man. It would seem he had appeared out of nowhere, disliked what had happened and fixed everything with a snap of his fingers. Arcturus sat in silence as he and Veledar searched the grassy fields restored to their former glory, devoid of any evidence of the previous months. He grabbed his chest and breathed deep, amazed that one moment he had been obliterated into nothing, only to be brought back.

Veledar was the first to speak, “I’m glad that the others are safe.”

“You didn’t have to call Krotos a whore.”

“He was celebrating this new life with an orgy Arcturus; I can call him whatever I like.”

“Do you think Feku is out there? I saw no sign of the pair of kobolds or Tenzin.”

“You think Florimel brought all of this back and left them out?” Veledar scoffed, “I know they pale in comparison to a dragon, but I doubt he’d be so cruel.”

“So, what do you think he did…giving us this second chance? Do you think we were meant for something great?”

Veledar scoffed, “Of course, I’m involved, it’s always going to be great.”

He rubbed his chest, hoping the dragon was right, it would be disappointing to say the least to let the Storyteller down.

“Don’t worry Umraadi, he was not unwise in his decision.” The dragon sighed, lingering on the swaths of green before him. There was a stretching of his soul, “Do you think Lyndis is out there?”

He had nearly forgotten, in all the excitement it was hard to remember that they’d seen Cordenth looming over them, possessed by the Emperor. “I’m certain he didn’t kill her. I imagine Lyndis would have been a trophy for him, a notch on his bedpost. She is out there; we just have to look.”

“But look out there Arcturus.”

“I’m looking.”

“Do you see the uniter? Any trace of it? It has been swept from the very sky as though it were dust. If he brought those people back…” He trailed off, letting the mental image sink in.

Arcturus frowned, “I doubt he let them plumet to their deaths if he’s so powerful.”

Veledar breathed a sigh of relief, “That’s what I thought, but for a moment…”

From the treetops came a familiar sight, two dragons, one of green scales and the other of black. One was of course Lyyreth, Arcturus could recognize him even if he was missing his horns; or had his wing membranes tattooed with runes. The other with him was a dragoness that was certain, but who she was alluded him. He followed them as they passed the treetops, attracting the eye of everyone below.

“Lyyreth! You’re here!” Arcturus called, waving the dragons down. “You should have sent a letter; we would have tidied up the place!”

Warbling, the green dragon landed with a bumpy trot, kicking up loose dirt and grass. He’d hardly folded his wings by the time he galloped over, swiftly closing the gap between them. The air radiated with rumbles and pleased, growly sounds as he nuzzled against Veledar without care.

“Both of you are safe, just as she said!” Lyyreth said with delight, dragging himself along Veledar’s flank and giving Arcturus a brief nuzzle, nearly knocking the man off.

“Lyyreth, restrain yourself, everyone is watching.” Veledar protested, pushing the green dragon back with a snap of his jaws. When he complied the red dragon snorted, eying the dragoness who had kept her distance a few paces back, “Who is that?”

“Oh, where are my manners, apologies. This here is Infinity, she’s a dragoness I met on my adventure.”

“You went on an adventure?”

“I can hear your sarcasm, yes I had an adventure.”

The red dragon huffed, “And she decided to tag along?”

He laughed nervously, gesturing for her to approach, “It’s a long story, we’re actually here for something entirely else.”

“Does it have to do with the Uniter exploding and reforming? Everyone suddenly being brought back to life?” Asked Arcturus.

“That happened?” The green dragon stilled, his eye giving a nervous twitch, “I thought that was a delusion of some sort. You’re telling me we all…” He gave a big gulp as his frills pinned, “Died?”

“I was telling you that’s what happened.” The black dragoness rolled her eyes, padding her way towards them. With a lash of her tail, she eyed Arcturus, ignoring Veledar trying to greet her. “Are you Arcturus?” she growled.

Why was she cross with him? Arcturus eyed her movements; his family’s past could have many skeletons that might come to haunt him. “That I am.” He replied, as Veledar took note and adopted a defensive posture.

“If you’re seeking some form of revenge on my Umraadi, you’ll have to get through me lady.” Veledar snarled, fluffing his wings.

“Oh please.” She scoffed, “Like I’d come all this way, battle what apparently was a goddess’ son just to settle some squabble with Arcturus Lund.” She leaned her head to get a better look, “You are that Arcturus Lund, right? There isn’t another one riding around a red asshole trying to intimidate me?”

“Listen here Infinity, I’ll have you know I’m most intimidating!” Veledar puffed up his chest, “You’re the one who came in here, growling and giving my human the eyes that could kill!”

“If I wanted to kill him, he’d be dead by now.”

Veledar lashed his tail and growled his threat.

“Calm down, she’d not here to fight.” Arcturus rested a hand on the dragon’s neck, keeping a steady eye on the dragoness. Unlike his dragon she had relatively kept her calm, treating Veledar as though his defense wasn’t anything of note. “I am who you seek, what do you need with me.”

Her ears pinned, tail tucked inward as she took a deep, composing breath, “I seek a young mage, goes by the name of Axton, short black hair, icy blue eyes, likes to draw. He is the sweetest human I met, please, if you’ve seen him, bring me to him.”

His eyes widened it was her. With a smile he had the honor of telling her he did indeed know the boy, that he was going to go out and find her after this whole adventure.

“Did you hear that Lyyreth, he’s here!” She perked up, bouncing on her paws, “Oh, after all this time!” She nuzzled against the green dragon, of which he returned the gesture. “You must take me to him right away!”

“But Infinity, we know that he’s here, he’s not going anywhere.” Lyyreth said softly, “We should focus on finding the others.”

Infinity pulled back with a soft whine, “Lyyreth, I have waited far too long for this. There is nothing on this plane that will stop me from seeing him now. Understand?”

The green dragon nodded ever quietly, knowing better than to stand in her way.

“So human, when do we leave?” Infinity eyed Arcturus, then the city itself, “I take it he’s in there?”

“Wait just a moment, you just assume Arcturus is going with you?” Veledar growled.

She shrugged, “Feel free to come, more the merrier. I just want Axton.”

For a while they talked, revealing that they had traveled briefly with Lyndis. It was they that had sabotaged the uniter, resulting in its destruction. At that reveal the dragons got quiet, reserved, even Infinity’s ears pinned. When asked if they had last seen the queen since their revival, the dragons could only shake their heads.

“We figured she’d come here to the city if she did.” Infinity huffed, looking past them with a sense of longing.

“You just wanted to find Axton.” Lyyreth said.

“Also, true.”

Veledar was the one to pad a few paces, testing his wings against the air. Within his breast was a storm of worry and concern, not for them of course, but that of their half-elven friend. “I’m going to go out there and find her. She’s probably alone, confused, lower than she’s ever been.” he said sternly.

“You mean that don’t you.” Arcturus asked softly, getting a snort and solemn nod.

“I’ll go with you.” Lyyreth padded to the red’s side, “We can cover more ground.”

“Good thinking, although I’m not familiar with how well you do at hunting.” Veledar puffed up his chest, bumping against the green dragon.

“I’m fair enough. More than qualified to find her.”

“We shall see. Ready Arcturus?”

“And what about me?” Infinity growled, stomping her way to their side.

“We can find Axton any time.” Lyyreth began to explain, only for Infinity’s growl to silence him.

“I’ve waited far too long for this, years. Lyyreth, nothing will stand in my way of getting me to him right now. I’ll drag Arcturus there if I need to, fight you if I must.”

“I thought you were not here to fight.” Veledar replied, wheeling about to lash his tail.

“She will because she loves him.” Arcturus said softly, “Because he’s, her son. Isn’t that right?”

“Yes.” She snorted.

“Lyyreth, do you trust her?”

The green dragon gave a nod and a rumble, “With my life. We’ve been through much.”

“You’ll have to tell me about it when you return, Lyndis in paw.” Arcturus tapped Veledar, gesturing him to get closer, to the dragoness he bowed, “Infinity, I’ll be delighted to go with you.”

She looked taken back for a moment, pinning her ears before averting her gaze with a huff, “You didn’t need to bow or anything.”

“Arcturus are you sure?” Veledar offered a critical eye before hissing at the black female when she drew near.

He could see that desperation, the claws that would have him do anything for his kin. Arcturus offered a hand, stilling the red dragon’s ire. “I’ll do it, if Lyyreth trusts her. That’s good enough for me. Don’t worry, I’ll be careful, seems all I must do is stay out of her way in finding her kid. Besides, Umraadi, “I’m not exactly going to be much help atop your back, I can’t exactly walk around.”

“Wait, you can’t?” Lyyreth pulled back, eyeing his legs, “You still have your legs!”

“Long story.” He sighed, not wishing to repeat it so soon, “We can trade stories about how you lost your horns.”

“Deal.”

Veledar tossed his head with a growl, disdain ever apparent in his eye, “Very well, but I won’t like it. Unable to walk, but you could have been another set of eyes.”

“But none that can match your wonderful ones.” Arcturus replied.

The dragon chuffed and averted his gaze, clearly still trying to give off the appearance of anger though his insides fluttered with delight at the praise. “How do you expect to ride her anyway? Just look at her.”

“What’s wrong with me?” Infinity challenged with a hiss, “I’ll have you know I’m probably twice the flier you are.”

“Look at you, you’re thornier than a porcupine, you’ll skewer by Umraadi like a kabob!”

“Then I’ll carry him like a package or prey smart one.” She rolled her eyes, rounding upon him with a swishing tail, “I thought that would be obvious.”

“The only obvious thing around here is I don’t have a good feeling about you.”

“Of that we can agree.”

“Hey, knock it off you two.” Arcturus spoke firmly, steeling his gaze as he caught the sight of both dragons. “We’re not here to fight, you’re both being silly, squabbling like siblings.”

“Me, related to her?” Veledar scoffed, tossing his head, “I’d think I’d rather drink poison.”

“Goes double for me.” Infinity replied with a nod.

“Another thing we agree on.”

“I hope your human is better company than you.”

“While wasted on you, his company is of the highest caliber.”

Arcturus squeezed the bridge of his nose, these dragons were impossible, “Thank you Umraadi.”

“You’re ever welcome.” The dragon replied with a growly rumble as he lowered himself onto his belly. “Do be careful and try to not scream as loud as last time. I’d like to be the only dragon you scream for.”

He kissed the red beast farewell, wishing him well in his search. Infinity soon padded over, rearing up and plucking him clean off Veledar’s back. He was tucked firmly against her grey scaled chest, held firmly, secure, safe despite the multitude of scars that adorned her. The dragoness used her tail to balance herself as she spread her star covered wings.

“See you later.” Lyyreth rumbled, nuzzling along her flank, applying a tender kiss when he reached her snout.

“Lyyreth…not in front of…” Her protests died only for her to return the nuzzle to the green’s cheek, gifting a lick of her own.

“You’ll have to introduce me to Axton later.”

“He’s going to love you.” She rolled her eyes with an amused snort, “Both of you magic nerds can go on and on into the night, boring me to death.”

Veledar fluffed his wings, impatience bristling with his growl, “If you two are done with your public display of affection, I would like to get a move on. The sooner that we valiantly rescue our queen friend, the sooner that I can return and rescue my brave knight from this dragoness.”

“Who knows, maybe Arcturus will like me better.” Infinity chuckled deep in her throat, swaying side to side with Arcturus held tight, “Isn’t that right?”

“If he does, I swear to the gods I’ll kill you!”

“You’re free to try.” She flared her spines across her back, “Many better than you have failed.”

“That can’t have been many, none are my equals.”

Before the situation could devolve into another round of snapping jaws and hissing, Infinity bounded into the air. With her powerful wings she rose ever higher, the winds battering against them. At Arcturus gesture she pounded against the sky, bringing them up above the city in a matter of moments, far faster than Veledar ever could manage. Infinity spiraled like a whirlwind above the vast city before spreading her membranes and drifting across the city proper. She smirked, eying where Veledar had rested.

“I bet it’s killing him how fast we rose.”

** * * * * *

The first place they checked of course was Fremra’s keep, the festivities just as enthusiastic as before. In fact, one could say more, as talk of the miracle that had saved them spread like a wildfire. People smiled, cheered, uncaring at the new dragon in their company. Infinity had been reserved to this, wanting to keep her distance as Arcturus surveyed the crowd, then assured the pegasus knights she means no trouble.

“She’s just looking for her son.” Arcturus had laughed, as a trio of horse bound soldiers eyed Infinity with suspicion.

“If I wanted to cause trouble, you’d all be dead, I’ve done it before.” Replied the dragoness, oblivious the damage she just did to her image. “Arcturus, I don’t see him.”

“See? Single minded as I said. Just let us look and we’ll be no trouble.” He breathed a sigh of relief as the guardians left, leaving him alone with an irate dragoness.

“That’s fine, let’s just ask around.”

“Ask around?” She eyed the people dazzling at her wings, captivated by the many stars.

Children and adults alike came to point and stare, several instances of its so pretty being uttered.

Told to keep their distance from the nervous dragoness, Arcturus was free to question. It would appear as though they’d missed the boy, matching the description of Axton. He’d gathered a bunch of drawing supplies and set out.

So, he’d gone to draw? Arcturus pondered exactly where he might have gone. Fremra was the obvious choice to ask, she’d spent a lot of time with the boy, but she’d left the keep going sunbathing in the new nature lush fields. Evidently, she’d taken a cart of her attendants in tow, despite their many protests.

So it was, location to location, they traveled over on the heels of this youthful mage. They received stories after the next hour, each describing how the lad had stayed for a brief amount of time, delivering packages.

Each passing moment Infinity’s impatient nature was building, ever threatening to burst. When they went back to the city gates, into the domain of spring, she finally let out a savage roar. “This is the seventh place that we’ve looked.”

“Fifth.” Arcturus remained calm in the face of her bared teeth.

“Whatever. He’s not here, out of reach.” She lashed her tail, tossing her head, “Are you people dicking me around? Lyyreth said that I could trust you, yet I’m still without my son.”

“Infinity. It’s just a bit of bad luck is all.” Arcturus chuckled, “He can’t out pace us forever, I recommend doing what Fremra was doing.”

“The sunbathing dragoness?” Infinity rolled her eyes.

“Calm down and relax. It will do you no good if you find the boy all distraught and un-nerved.” He laughed and rested a tender hand upon her scales, so much tension beneath the plates.

“Oh, go get mounted human. I can’t relax, not ever, not while my Axton is supposedly out there. I wouldn’t expect you to understand- “

“That it’s like a claw dragged across your soul?” He replied, giving her a solemn look. “I know what you’re going through right now. My own son was taken from me two years ago, by a dragon that I finally put to the sword. Even now, having come to terms with his passing, if you told me that he was able to be reached, I would be going as mad as you are right now.” He patted her side as she merely huffed, “So don’t get yourself worked up. I promise that I’m not dicking you around.”

The proud dragon snorted, keeping him within her stern gaze, pondering no doubt if he was being truthful. After a moment of silence, she averted her gaze with a heavy snort. She believed him.

“Patience. You will see him today.”

“I know.” She groaned, padding a few steps through the tall grass, “But the wait burns, I feel like a wrymling again.” Her ears pinned, “And no matter how much that burns, I shouldn’t take that out on you.” She sat him down on a rock, setting herself upon her haunches as she took a deep, composing breath. “It is nice out. Hard to believe this is what came of the uniter.”

“Certainly, now what I would have thought.” Arcturus caressed the moisture slick stone, “Axton was a good boy you know. Youthful, spirited, brave, a bit brainy, but that’s alright, he got swimmingly along with a male friend of mine.”

“Hopefully it is better than the other mage I knew.” She growled, “Turned out to be a lich.”

“Oh?” He rose a brow, “I helped kill a lich before.”

“Must have been satisfying. Mine was an ever-loving pain in my haunches. Now what of Axton, did he make any friends? Any other dragons?”

“Jealous?” Arcturus rose a brow.

“Me? No.” Infinity snapped her snout away, “I was merely curious.”

“Several dragons then. Storm, Fremra and her children. I do believe he made the elders feel like parents again.”

“They’ll have to get in line. He’s mine.” Infinity thumped her tail. “What else did he get up to? Besides trying to get himself adopted by another dragon?”

So, he told her, leaning forward and entertaining his captive audience. He spoke highly of the winter antics, the boy’s training, even how he might have been recruited by Lumara’s queen to be an apprentice. He told in detail of the fighting, the courage, the determination to help in the face of everything that had happened. When he got to the parts about Dreadflame she was livid, but he kept her in check by insisting the boy survived, even stabbed the beast through the eye.”

“See? I taught him well.” Infinity rumbled with pride, “Go for their weak spots.”

“And now he has enjoyed himself, helping Fremra, tending to spells, relaxing…Evidently drawing.”

“Sounds like he got up to a lot.” She chuckled, placing her head into her paws.

“You could say that. I imagine you must have whole sagas of your own to tell.”

“Of course.” She rolled her eyes, “I’m glad though you kept him safe, kept his spirits up.” It was then she got silent, shifting on her paws, “Did he mention me?”

“All the time.” Arcturus replied, seeing the look of relief that flashed across her snout, “Even carries a scale of you in his pocket.”

“Good. Then I owe you a great debt, you’ve returned to me what I thought was gone, only accessible in dreams.”

“It was nothing.”

“It’s not nothing.”

“I only did what anyone else would do. Who wouldn’t want to see a lad returned to the arms of his mother?” Arcturus gave a warm smile as Infinity scooched closer, “Come now.”

She took a deep breath and sighed, “Not too many people I’ve met actually.”

“Sounds like you’ve met terrible people.”

“I believe things are starting to look up for me.” She rested her head in his lap.

Behind her, Arcturus caught a peculiar sight, of Fremra padding her way across the field. Such determination flowed in her steps, pressing down the tall grass with every stride. Behind her was a cart surrounded by her attendants, large onyx pots in the back all tied together. Fremra settled onto her belly and rolled over, letting the rays of the sun soak her orange underscales. There she wiggled, oblivious to the judgmental glares of her attendants, still in disbelief of the silly antics of this elder dragon. That, however, wasn’t what truly caught his eye.

Upon a rock close to the wiggling dragoness was Axton. Golden rays painted his features as he scribbled away at a pad of parchment in his lap. The boy’s attentions were elsewhere, removed from the warbling, teal creature before him and instead onto a series of bushes complete with lime green flowers dotted with lavender spots.

“Infinity.” Arcturus spoke softly, tapping her scales, the dragoness was going on about some sort of oath that she was making to him.

“Arcturus, I’m in the process of showing how grateful I am. Can it wait?”

“Infinity.” He tapped her again when she began to start.

“Could you not wait?” Her spines flared as she gently rose, fire in her eyes.

The man laughed, saying her name again, trying to get her to look with a gesture.

“Laughing at me now as I try to pour out my soul? Arcturus Lund, is this where you put your families talents to use, instead of slaying dragons you slay moments?”

Rolling his eyes he grabbed her by the snout, pointing and finally able to guide her attention to what she sought. “I think someone more important than me needs your attention.”

The dragoness froze, the aur of her ire frozen, beaten down by her surprise. At first, she blinked in disbelief, transfixed by a dream she thought would be ever beyond her grasp. Tears welled in her eyes, shimmering in the sun as she trembled, her demeanor starting to crumble beneath the weight. She couldn’t hold it in any longer.

It happened all at once, Infinity springing forth into a gallop, tossing up dirt in her wake, unleashing a warble so loud that it cleaved through the air. The boy peered up from his work, caught by the all too familiar sound. He was a mirror of his mother, rubbing his eyes as the black dragoness rose and fell in her frantic pace.

“Mom?” He called out, unsure, voice cracking at the stampeding bulk of onyx scales.

“Who else would it be?” She cried.

In a blur the boy tossed aside his sketch book without a thought, racing towards the bouncing dragoness. They met in an explosion of emotions, surprise and jubilant tears all built up over years of separation. Their cheers and cries intermingled as they bounced around each other. It soon devolved into her snatching him in a firm paw, rearing up to place him securely on her chest. There she tightly squeezed, folded on him, tail used for balance as she sobbed and shook. All at once the aggressive dragoness was broken away, leaving nothing but the shivering, quivering, relieved mass of scales that licked the head of her son, rivers running down her cheeks. She swayed back in forth with a whine, overcome with emotion.

Arcturus watched on with pride, a smile brought to him as he was overcome with the warm display before him. He laughed as she collapsed to the grass with the boy held tight, warbling her heart to the sky. The knight leaned back with a pleased with himself sigh, in a way bringing his own child back.

“You look happier than a cat with a bowl of milk.” Fremra’s sing song voice came as she approached, leaving Axton and Infinity to continue away with their reunion. “Do I spy a hint of pride behind those eyes?”

“There is no vow or oath against taking pride in one’s work.” He chuckled, “Look upon that wholesome display and tell me not that it invokes a fondness in your heart.”

“It is rather delightful isn’t it.” She peered back, over her following attendants and their cart, eyes transfixed on the happy couple. The dragoness rumbled, flicking her tail, “Makes me feel rather…Nostalgic for days since past. When they were so small and filled with light.”

“You could always force them to roleplay those days.”

Fremra chuckled in a growly way, rounding on the sitting knight, “That is true. I think Achaaz and Jandar might owe me one or three. Do you think Veledar will swallow his pride and act like a wrymling?”

“You mean he already doesn’t?” Arcturus chuckled as the towering mountain of teal scales approached him, bringing with her shade.

“Fair point.” She circled the paladin’s rock, nostrils flaring as she sniffed about the area. After a time, she rose her head in amusement, “I take it you’re stuck there?”

“Unless you’d like to see me crawling around on all fours.”

“What’s the problem with that?” Her head reared back as she appeared to be offended, even lashing her tail for good measure. “You see me striding around on all fours. Who knew you garnered such resentment for those of us that do.”

“You can’t fool me, save your playful teases for someone else.”

“Rats.” She rumbled, laying upon her belly, practically a wall of muscle and scale, trapping the paladin on his rock. “But it would appear you’re now trapped.”

“What game are you playing?” He raised his brow, already seeing the mischief in her lavender eyes. “And is it befitting of a dragon of your age?”

“My age?” She scoffed, frills flaring, “When has that ever been something to define me? I’ll have you know; I drove my darling Ramakox mad with my antics.”

“And how did he react to that?”

“Well, I did end up having two of his children, so Imagine quite well.”

“Is there something that you want? Or did you truly wish to come over and poke fun?”

“Poking fun is always entertaining Arcturus; you should do it sometime.” She chuckled, bringing her snout close to wash him with a growly chuff, “I came to enjoy this magical marvel, it would appear as though spring has sprung, a final insult to what was the emperor of dragon kind. Which, if you’ve been paying attention, it’s glorious out, I just had to soak up some rays.” She gestured to her attendants and their cart, who loomed none too amused to be playing babysitter to the dragon.

“They don’t look so happy about it.”

She rolled her eyes, “They think I should be in bed. I insisted I needed sunbathing and iced tea. You can see who won in the end.”

“And you lot just humor her?” Arcturus laughed as the attendants had already started unloading a sizable pot, bathing his senses in a delightful, fruity fragrance.

“Someone has to watch out for her!” A wolven woman belted out, “If she ends up hurting herself, we’re here to tend to her. Which I must remind you Fremra, you should be resting.”

“I am resting.” She groaned, rolling her eyes to Arcturus. “I was laying down and enjoying Arcturus’ company, how is that not resting.”

“You have him fooled, but I can see that mischievous glint in that eye of yours.”

“I think you’re seeing things.”

“Alright.” She crossed her arms, standing firm, “But if I’m right, there is going to be the biggest I told you so that you can dream of.”

Fremra laid down her head into her paws, thumping her tail, grumbling something that she wasn’t a wrymling anymore.

“You certainly are acting like one.” Arcturus teased, leaning over, and earning himself a harsh snort to the face.

“Careful Arcturus, I may not have decided to spare you, my teasing.”

“Just enjoy the outdoors. Last time I checked I wasn’t part of that.”

“Wrong my future pupil. You, Axton, and that dragoness over there paint a most delightful image. You are examples of everything that the emperor hated. The last blood of a once dragon hunting family, bringing an adopted human to his dragon mother. Oh, I imagine he’d be steaming over this, that he’d burst into flame.” She closed her eyes and chuckled, “I hope he can see this right now. That would really make me smile.”

When she put it like that, it did settle in his gut and give him warmth. “I did promise the lad to return him, I was honor bound to do so. Which means, when it comes to epic quests, I’m two for two.”

“Returning a book and returning a child? I think that makes you a post man over an adventurer.”

“Yes, but one that crosses swords and engages in great danger. Who must fend off the antics of a certain red dragon.”

She chuckled to herself, “What a busy life you lead Arcturus, one must feel sad if you could not do another quest, care for another one?”

“Excuse me?” He raised a brow as the dragoness perked her head, a smirk about her lips, he doubted whatever this quest was, it would be exceptionally serious. Already he was suspecting something to embaress him. “And where did you find this quest?”

“Oh, I have good information, contacts and spies.” Fremra tilted her head, pretending to inspect her scaled paws, “I have it that a teal dragoness needs a paladin’s tender hands to caress her scales. He did an exceptional job the first time and she’d like to have a repeat experience.”

Arcturus crossed his arms, eyes traveling all over the dragoness around him. If he were to tend to her scales it would take at least a few hours of pressing and massaging her pressure points. “A certain dragoness huh?”

“Plus, it doesn’t involve you walking around, which is a plus for you.”

“Uh-huh.”

“And it’s not like you were going anywhere.” She flicked her snout to Infinity and Axton, who seemed enraptured with one another, starting to tell each other tales. “At least for quite some time. Unless you’d rather crawl your way back to the city?”

The paladin shook his head at her antics, unphased by her revealing her teeth, “Don’t you have attendants for this?”

“Who said this was for me?”

“I can imagine there is only one teal dragoness that wants me to touch her.”

“Oh, my Arcturus.” She rumbled, “Perhaps later if you’re polite.”

He blushed, “Clearly not like that.”

“If you say so, but I’ll be watching you good knight. You are to keep your hands to my scales, nothing else.”

“Hold on, I have not said I’d do this yet. Nor have you answered if your attendants could do this.”

She rolled her eyes, “They could, but they’d fail to massage to your expertise. All your training of dragons and their anatomy has gone to good use. After our last encounter I couldn’t get your magic fingers out of my mind.” She batted her eyes at him with a deep rumble in her throat, “Could you service a dragon in need Arcturus? Is that not your job as a paladin?”

He squeezed the bridge of his nose, cheeks burning. She delighted in teasing him, “If by that you mean help, then yes.”

“Sure, lets go with that.” She flopped to the grass, “But don’t be cross with me Arcturus, you only have yourself to blame. Perhaps last time you should have done a poor job.”

“Lucky me.”

“Don’t take that tone with me. I harbored yourself and Veledar for these many months without charge or fee.” She gestured to her servants to bring over the pot full of tea, “You can’t expect me to not be paid for my services.”

When did she care about money? The knight sighed, seeing her point.

“When you make a deal with a dragon my pupil, be highly suspicious if they don’t ask for coin. It just means you’ll be making it up to them in other ways.”

“Very well.” He groaned, “I suppose it’s the least I could do. You afterall helped Veledar get his wings and have done so much for us.”

“See? You can see reason.” She dipped her head into the pot, slurping away at the liquid before flopping back to the grass with a satisfied sigh.

“Could you change your size for me? Unless you want me to be here all day.”

“Here I was mistaken, have you a busy schedule?” She chuckled, giving the paladin a domineering lick.

“Course not.” He sighed, crawling to her chest when she gestured with a paw. He began to talk, pressing and rubbing tender areas around her joints. With his touch came purrs and rumbles that might startle anyone else, combined with soft bats of her paws. The paladin chuckled, having reduced this mighty dragoness to this faster than any sword.

“Oh, silly me, I forgot.” Fremra sighed among her purrs, “Attendants, would you get some Arcturus some iced tea? He deserves it.”

The man laughed as they tried to find a container for him that wasn’t dragon sized. He pressed against her scales, certain there were worse fates than this.

** * * * * * * *

Gazing out across the horizon it was hard to believe that winter had ever happened. The sprawling landscape was a tapestry of colors, the wilderness sprouting forth to retake the land. Snow that had choked the hills and forests with its powdery white was now once more brimming with life. Gnarled branches like skeletons were adorned with leaves, flowers blooming to soak in the sun’s rays. From atop here, Veledar could take it all in, relish the warmth that spread through his bones.

To think that he had been here one moment and gone the next, it sent a shiver down the dragon’s spine. Though as he flapped his wings, Lyyreth trailing behind him, that fact was slowly loosing it’s claws. He instead distracted himself as he tilted himself, following the currents. Down below, where tall weeds threatened to take back the mortal’s roads, guardians were starting to emerge.

They were a smatter of different races, clad in their royal blue uniforms. Wolves, humans, and elves carried themselves in a stupor, surprised to find themselves among the living and without the uniter below their boots. Some brought with them pegasai, dragging the feathery equines who kept on insisting on the right to graze.

Veledar grumbled to himself as he could not spy an ounce left of the uniter, its foul shadow having been stricken from this world. Not even a stray rock or boulder was left to blemish the ground below or chill to darken his spirits. There was only one being he knew that possessed such power, Florimel the storyteller. He hated to be in the debt of such a powerful creature, that could drag him along on some misbegotten quest whenever he wished, hopefully not with a company of dwarves for certainly they would make a mess. Then again, pride shone in his heart that such a powerful being considered his life so important as to be brought back.

He smirked, rumbling down his throat, that was it. He and Arcturus had much more important things to do, things that would be spread far and wide. There was a fondness for such a thought, now he just had to find this rogue and return to the man before that dragoness killed him, or worse, seduced him to liking her better.

“Do you see her?” Lyyreth asked, drifting ever lower till his paws threatened to skim across the treetops. “You would think she’d be among the other soldiers.”

“And why do you think that?”

“Last we saw of her she was heading off on her lonesome to challenge the emperor. She thought my brother deserved another chance.”

Certainly, sounded like her, leave it up to that woman to try and out do him, concoct a story that would rival his in it’s grand nature. Though even as he grumbled and pounded his wings, he could not help but sweep his eyes ever faster among the trees, waiting for even a glimpse of her armor and sash.

“Do you think she will be ok, or even made it? I see some guardians down there…so there is still hope right?”

“You seem to be alright, double for that dragoness friend of yours.” He growled as they passed over a forgotten farm, a network of fences and stones sprawled out across the ground, waiting for its masters to return. “I think if whomever returned us to the living world had any sense of decency, they would do the same for her.”

“You think?” Lyyreth blinked, “Who could even do such a thing.”

“I know a being.” He smirked, seeing Lyyreth’s eyes sparkle with interest, hanging on his word, “A storyteller.”

“No way.” Gasped the dragon, “you’re making that up.”

“Nope. Met him, the craziest bastard I’ve ever seen. Think he was nutty.”

“You have to tell me about that…wow…a storyteller.”

“But he seemed to like us. And It’s him to thank for the…timely rescue.” He groaned at the last part, as Lyyreth had explained that Veledar and all below were most likely moments away from having their senses robbed of them, enchanted by the emperor’s magic effect. It send a tremble down the red dragon’s scales. He pondered as they crossed a bubbling brook, would the Storyteller truly bring back the emperor possessing Cordenth? No that would have been crazy. Still, he searched the sky, almost expecting to see a blur of green and golden scales leaping for him.

“So how about we split up, ask some of those mortals below if they’ve seen the illusive queen.” He snorted at the idea, a queen that owed him. He dove down towards the latest batch, groaning as Lyyreth was hot on his wings. Guess he didn’t understand the whole concept.

“And what if the emperor is back?” Lyyreth protested, “What then, do you expect me to fight him on my own?”

“You think they’d have brought him back?” He rolled his eyes, “Think Lyyreth! But if you’re so worried, run away, don’t let him catch you.”

That failed to have the intended effect, Lyyreth was dead set on sticking to Veledar’s scales as if they were glued together. While frustrating, didn’t stop the red from fulfilling his mission. He landed in a fluff of his wings, expecting shouts of alarm, screams, anything including weapons jabbed at his chest, after all, these people hadn’t met him.

Much to his surprise and shock they tossed themselves at his paws. They cried tears, lavishing his talons in kissing, swearing undying loyalty and to serve him to the end of their days. Some even offered what coin they had as tribute to his glorious presence. He went to accept but stopped himself with a groan, there would be time for coin another time. “People, People, I don’t come for gifts or treasure, though if you’re still willing after this day, I will gladly accept your donations.” He held his head high as they murmured and shouted his praises, mostly about how humble he was. It was hard to not relish the satisfaction of their servitude.

“Focus?” Lyyreth growled, swatting him on the flank.

Suppose he had to get back to task. “Right my friend is. We are here, looking for your royal highness. I believe she is known as Lyndis but goes by Lynalla among those not her friends. Small, brown hair, short and uppity?”

They failed in the first group and moved on, padding their way group after group after group. To each they gave directions to Struport, where the people would welcome them with open arms. Veledar hated to pass on their praise to Fremra and her children, knowing they would not find as much satisfaction as he did. Many were irritated that they could not remain with ‘the most beautiful dragon they say’, he grinned at that; but he dissuaded their fears, letting them know there were four other dragons awaiting them to lavish with praise.

Eventually Lyyreth was confident enough with their safety to split up, starting to interrogate guardians on his own. They had been at it for at least an hour now, draining the green’s spirit. He had started to droop his head and glance upward, no doubt realizing with Tiamat’s death, meant his brothers. Veledar lingered upon him as the latest guardian spoke to him, knowing he would have to cheer the green up. Losing a brother was hard, but something he would be more than willing to help him get through.

The dragon would have followed him except, among the field of green, he spied a familiar shape of a woman, clad in green scaled armor in the exact shade of the fallen Cordenth. She was by the tree line, striding back and forth, a tattered cloak billowing out behind her. Veledar lingered, taking in the sight, was this her? His tail shifted as she turned, revealing the short brown hair and almond eyes he’d come to know. She’d survived!

Galloping across the field, the dragon crossed rock and grass as though the ground burned his paws. Dirt scattered in his wake, knowing not to be foolish enough to stand in the way of a stampeding dragon. Of course, she’d survived, any doubt to the contrary was foolish on his part. He announced himself with a great, brassy warble, drawing her attention.

The muttering to herself queen turned, hand upon her chin as the bulwark of crimson scales was upon her. Eyes lit up for a fraction of a moment, warmth spreading over her features. “Finally, you get your lazy haunch over here, I thought you were going to take all day.”

“A dragon arrives when they mean to Lyndis, they are never late or early.” He scoffed, slowing his advance to an approach more befitting of himself. Slow, deliberate, let the smiling rogue take in the renewed sight that was him. The hero of Struport, the defender of her people, the one who had restored his wings, helped defeat Dreadflame and won the heart of Arcturus Lund. “If you wished for me to arrive sooner, you should have sent one of your underlings.”

“Next time I hitch a ride on a lunatic’s flying castle, I’ll certainly give you a shout.” She rolled her eyes away from the dragon, instead choosing to focus on an overgrown patch of earth.

“You don’t seem exceptionally surprised to see me.”

“If anyone was going to survive the assault on the city it was bound to be you.”

“And why was that?”

“It’s not very noteworthy if you die randomly.” Replied the rogue, “If you were to meet your end, you’d probably announce it to the world, go out in a great blazing flame of glory.”

He grinned, padding his way over as his chest swelled with pride. Wait until he told her about the particulars with Dreadflame and his numerous heroics over the siege, no doubt she would be awestruck. “Of that we are in agreement. I do have to warn you though, in my time defending your city, there may have been legends and songs sprung up about me…Arcturus…and the rest of them, I’ll admit it was a group effort. Which reminds me, when this day is done, I’d like to call upon some of your bard friends, construct a song truly worthy of my…our greatness. How do you think of Crimson Sky with beauty to send you into a daze, mess with him and he will set you ablaze?”

She laughed “You think I have a list of bards that I can summon up on a whim to indulge your fancy?”

“You don’t?” He pulled his head back, wiggling his wing, “Which did you see, I got these restored?”

“Yes, yes, that’s nice.” she said flatly, stroking her chin.

“You didn’t even look.”

“I was rather busy before you arrived.”

“Busy with what?” He approached with a cocked head, right to the woman’s side. What was she looking at? There was nothing interesting about this patch of earth, just marks in the dirt as though she’d been digging with her hands around a strange green plant. The dragon chuckled, his gaze traveling over her, noting that her scaled armor was absolutely covered in dirt. “Playing in the dirt after the end of an adventure? I wasn’t aware that your people engaged in such rituals.”

“I wasn’t playing in the dirt, I was thinking.”

“Thinking about how wonderful it would be to see your friends again?” He rumbled, rolling a paw to his chest, “Certain friends who got their wings back?”

“Veledar, could you just, not? For like five minutes.” She groaned.

What? He pulled back his head with a gasp, “We haven’t seen each other for months on end, I struggled and exerted myself to protect your city. I traversed a mystical island once belonging to dragons and their riders, got my wings returned to me. Do you know how much we’ve been through to save this place?” He fluffed his wings with a growl, “I’d have thought you’d be more grateful. Typical Queen I suppose, already it’s gone to your head.”

“For gods sake, get mounted, can’t you see I’m trying to figure this out?” Lyndis whirled around, jabbing a finger to his chest, eyes aflame, threatening to light Veledar’s scales ablaze, “So, perhaps if you sat your fat ass down and shut your snout you could be helpful.”

The dragon hissed and snapped his jaws at her, but she didn’t flinch. Had he been that predictable that she couldn’t be frightened, even a hint of it? Rolling his eyes he sat upon his haunches, tail crashing to the ground. What had gotten into her, lit this much fire in her bones? That’s when his frills pinned, the thought striking him, it was so obvious. It was because her beloved was dead. Of course, she was being this way, he was being an ass.

“Least you can still listen.” Lyndis sighed, turning around.

She would need some cheering up, that much was certain. That would make two of his companions that needed his expertise on the matter. Of course, he would be up to such a challenge, there was no one better suited to the task. He bet in a few days he would have them uplifted, better than normal, or at least on the right track. Just as he was going to drop his head in a submissive manner, apologize for his brutish behavior, Lyyreth proceeded to fly over and ruin the entire thing.

“Lyndis!” Trilled the horn deprived brother, landing in a ruffling of his wings. Loose dirt and grass fluttered by to welcome his paws. “You survived!”

Unlike the red dragon’s arrival, when Lyndis turned, it was like the sun had been lit within her chest. A smile spread from ear to ear, “Lyyreth! Lyyreth!”

Half-elf and dragon sprang at each other, racing over the ground, laughing, and warbling to the winds. Lyyreth was the one to first stop, spraying the queen in a flurry of dirt, accidently knocking her to the ground.

“Lyndis, oh my gods!” Down went the dragon’s snout, nudging the sputtering woman up even as she coughed and wiped her face free of dirt. “Are you okay?”

“Come now, think a wee bit of dirt can hurt me?” She laughed, wrapping Lyyreth’s snout in the tightest of hugs, “I’m just so glad to see ya, I take it Infinity did as well?”

“She did, back home finding her son.”

“Gerald and Vishta?”

“Found them in the group of guardian survivors. Should be on their way to Struport as we speak. Poor kobold looked like she was in tears at losing her master.”

“She reminded you that she was yours now, didn’t she?”

The green dragon blushed, shifting his paws, “That she did.”

“Did you correct her?”

“I was…busy trying to find you.”

All this good cheer and wonderment at the green’s survival? Veledar stewed, brimming with envy as the pair laughed and praised one another for their success. He’d had enough of it when they parted, Lyndis going as far as proclaiming Lyyreth was the best.

“Oh, I see how it goes. He simply shows up, showers you with dirt and gets all the praise, while I, save your city might I add and are treated worse than chopped pig?”

The adventure ignored him, pulling Lyyreth’s snout close as she seemed to be bouncing on her feet, “You’ll never believe it Lyyreth.”

“What won’t I?” Lyyreth’s frills fluffed with interest.

“He came back in the end.” Tears welled in her eyes, “Against everything, he came back to me.”

“He did?” He replied in a hushed tone, when she affirmed it, his nuzzling almost knocked her straight over. “Oh, my gods, I can’t believe it. I thought…I thought…Oh Lyndis.”

“I know.” She rested her head to him, caressing his jaw, “But he did it, bastard didn’t let me down.”

“So…where is he?” Lyyreth pulled away with a sniff, wiping his eyes. “Unless…”

“I was getting to that…he’s right this way.”

Veledar scoffed as they padded past him, totally ignoring what he’d said. “Alright, fun as this is, I’ve had enough of the presentation on how to properly greet a dragon. “Now spit it out before I bite the both of you, who of which you speak is back? It can’t be me, considering the cold shoulder that you gave me.”

“I welcomed you!” Lyndis laughed, hands on her hips, “What more do you want?”

“A matter of grandness fitting of me!” His chest swelled, wings fluffing for effect, “Astonishment of my success, happy that you see me alive! I am after all, thrilled to see you’re alive!”

“Seemed to care only about you and the other’s success.”

“I was getting to my relief at your survival.” He averted his gaze with a snort, “Things would be exceptionally boring if you were not around. Now whom is back?”

“Cordenth of course you daft fool, who else would it be?”

Oh no, she had gone mad. He knew something like this was bound to happen, not everyone could be as mentally strong as a dragon or his paladin. Having Cordenth possessed by an evil demigod and then destroyed must have been too much for the woman to take. She must have been so over come with grief that she was seeing hallucinations of the dragon in question. He sighed as he followed on her heels.

“Lyndis, I’m trying to be delicate in such matters, but I need you to think. If we were all returned to life by a great force, why would they bring back Cordenth with us? He was possessed by the emperor.”

“And I just said he got done coming back, didn’t I? We kicked that arrogant bastard right back to where he came from.”

He wrinkled his snout; this was going to be harder than he thought. “I’m trying to help.”

“Then explain this smart scales.” She smirked, hands on her hips as she wheeled around, gesturing to that strange plant again.

Now that she mentioned it, the plant’s surface certainly resembled dragon scales. His tail flicked as he realized that it wasn’t a strange weed, it was Cordenth’s snout poking up from the earth.

“Is that Veledar out there?” Cordenth spoke, “Oh gods, it is it. Lyndis, he wasn’t supposed to see me like this. It’s so embarrassing. To be trapped in the ground, I’ll never live it down.”

“I’m here too brother.” Warbled Lyyreth, fluffing his wings in excitement.

“Wonderful.” Spat the trapped dragon, “Now two dragons have seen me. Will my shame know no bounds?”

As the others sang and warbled their praise of luck and joy, Veledar was the only one to keep a reserved head. The emperor was an ancient beast, had more power than anyone else. While he wanted the green to be back, it wasn’t likely. “Hold one moment.” He growled, pushing both Lyndis and Lyyreth back with a paw.

“What is it this time?” Lyndis snarled, “We’re trying to get him out.”

“Yes, I know. But I would like you to use your brain here.”

She pulled a knife, “Careful their red boy, I am using my brain.”

He sighed and pushed the blade away, “Lyndis, although it pains me to bring down your hope and optimism here, we must be smart. What if this is yet another ploy by the emperor to deceive us? What then? We would be playing right into his paws.” He gave her an empathetic look, tail twitching, “I know how hard it is to lose people, trust me I know.”

“He’s not blooming dead!” She gestured the blade to the trapped dragon, “He’s right there in front of you!”

“I know it looks like him, but he came to Arcturus and me with a projection. When he spoke, he did so with Cordenth’s voice and personality. There is nothing stopping him from doing it now.”

“Well, he’s not.”

“And let me guess, because he told you so?” He rolled his eyes, “Lyndis, come- “He snorted as she returned the blade to be resting inches before his snout. “Alright, explain to be how you know. For just on his word is not good enough.”

“You think that Tiamat would be pretending right now? Would let himself be caught dead in such an embarrassing sight? That other dragons will chuckle at him endlessly, honestly, I’m not going to let him forget this, so how will he leave it down?”

“Thanks Lyndis.” Cordenth groaned.

“Love you Umraadi, just hold on a smattering more, have to convince the local dragon to help.”

He sighed, “Do hurry, my nose itches.”

Veledar huffed, raising his head back, “I’m not him Lyndis, but I sure do know he’s waited eons for this moment. What’s another century to lay low? What should happen if we free him now and we get this Emperor all over again?” He growled at the idea, “Arcturus would never let me hear the end of it.”

“So, your objection is based on not letting Arcturus harp on you all the bloody time?” She raised a brow.

“And the safety of Sethera and all that.” He waggled a paw, “You know I’m right, don’t try to scurry away from it.”

“He does have a point.” Whimpered Lyyreth, frills pinning, “We have no way of knowing.”

In the face of such things, Lyndis didn’t waver, even as Veledar held his head proud, confident in his assertion. She sheathed her blade and held her chest, meeting his gaze. Twin amber pools of desperation grabbed him, held him in their sway, “You’re wrong, both of you. I know that it’s hard to explain, but he and I share the bond that you and Arcturus do. I can feel him, the emotions that he shares, even when he was buried within that monster.”

“Guess they are handing these bonds out to everyone.” He snorted, “But that doesn’t prove anything, it merely means that when Tiamat took over Cordenth, he inherited his bond to you as well.”

“Veledar!” She snarled as he padded around her, “I know what I’m talking about. Just as you know Arcturus, I know him. Trust me…” Her voice cracked as the red dragon drew close, allowing her to rest a hand upon his scales. “If you’ve ever trusted me…trust me now…I beg of you.”

Faced with such a heartfelt plea, the dragon could hardly hold onto his stoic demeanor. He averted his gaze with a harsh snort, wanting her to be right. If he was in her paws, he doubted much could keep him from assisting Arcturus. “Very well. But should this prove to bite me in the haunches, I’m going to direct all my Umraadi’s complaints to you.”

“Deal!” She hugged his forepaw, “Knew you cared about us deep down.”

He chuffed, “Was there any doubt?”

“What happened, did he agree to help?” Cordenth asked, “I only caught a bit of that.”

“Sure did.” She leaned at the snout’s side, kissing the emerald scales, “Few moments more and you’ll be free. So, boys, how you going to do it, big display of magic?” She rose with a smile, conjuring a translucent green hand in her palm, “Levitate the earth, shrink him down, turn it all to water or something?”

“Probably just dig him out honestly.” Lyyreth chuffed, “I don’t exactly have spells for that.”

“And unless you want him on fire, or a wall built out of him…” Veledar chuckled, “That’s the best option.”

“Well, get on with it.” Lyndis got out of the way.

“Now hold on just one moment my royal friend, we have not agreed to anything yet.” Veledar chuckled, relishing the sharpened glance laid his way, he big Lyyreth away with a paw. He saw an opportunity. “Cordenth, my green scaled acquaintance, how much is your freedom from your earthy prison worth to you? Thousands of coins, a rare artifact from your hoard, like a long-lost book, magic potion, or perhaps a scroll?”

The green dragon groaned, “You’re trying to extort me?”

“Veledar!” Lyndis slapped his side, earning herself a hiss, “Quit joking and help him.”

“Who’s joking?” The red dragon chuckled before giving the half-elf a threatening growl, “I’m being deadly serious.”

She blushed, “But he’s been through an absolute ordeal! Been possessed by an ancient demigod, destroyed, brought back to life, trapped in dirt!”

“Yes, and all those things were then, this is now. Now he wishes to get out.”

“I could always get my soldiers.”

“Perhaps.” He pretended to inspect his scaled paw, “But that would leave your precious Umraadi trapped in the dirt for who knows how much longer.”

“Lyyreth, can you shove aside this pompous scaled jerk and get me out of here?” Groaned Cordenth.

Lyyreth padded to his brother’s side, nuzzled against his snout. “I’m grateful your alive brother, Bahamut has truly blessed us.” He then pulled back, shared a look with Veledar and a mischievous grin came to his snout, “But whatever Veledar is given, I want triple.”

“WHAT?” Cordenth snarled in unison with Lyndis’ cry of disbelief. “My own brother, sharing in extorting me? What has this world come to when a dragon can’t even trust his own blood?”

“One that knows you would do the same if our positions were reserved.”

Veledar couldn’t believe it, Lyyreth was more of a dragon then he gave him credit for. “There you have it Cordenth, if you want us to even lift a paw to help you, you’ll have to cough up the treasure.”

“All of you are impossible!” Lyndis exclaimed, shaking her head as they chuckled and swished their tails, “Yet how am I not surprised. Lyyreth, how could you?”

“If you knew our entire past you’d understand.” Lyyreth replied.

“He hasn’t forgiven me for chipping his horn.” Sighed Cordenth.

“You never apologized!”

“Yes, I did.”

“I’m sorry you hate that I chipped your horn because you wanted to look different isn’t an apology.”

There was a pause as Cordenth wrinkled his snout, “Agree to disagree.”

Lyyreth flopped to his belly, tapping his brother on the nose, “That doesn’t sound like you want to get out of there.”

“I hate you.”

“Veledar did you hear that?”

“That I did.” Veledar replied, taking his place on the other side. “You know, you look really good in the ground Cordenth, do you think perchance you’ll grow your way out of there?”

“Fine, you two have got me by the eggs.” Cordenth finally growled, having no other choice, “Name your price.”

“We can work out the details later.” Warbled Veledar, already bristling with ideas on what he would request. “But know if you go back on such deals, you will know my wrath.”

“Yea, sure.”

“Same goes for me brother.” Lyyreth said with a rumble.

“Just get me out of here.”

Right now, he just had to cross off the basics. “Have you tried shape changing your way out? Or adjusting your size?”

“Of course, I have.” He growled, “I am not an idiot.”

“That remains to be seen.” Veledar replied with a delighted coo, returning to all fours as to pad at the loosened dirt. It would certainly take some effort and care, but they’d be able to dig him out unless there were more complications.

“Just be careful.” Lyndis added as the two dragons began their methodical work, removing pawfuls at a time.

“Don’t worry, we’ll be careful with your Umraadi.” Chuckled Veledar.

“Ow, watch it!” Cordenth snapped as Lyyreth nicked him with a talon. “Who was that?”

“Veledar.” Quickly replied Lyyreth.

“Hey!” Veledar snapped his jaws with a growl, “It certainly was not! I will not stand by and have my reputation tarnished while we perform manual labor!”

After another round of squabbling witnessed by an ever increasingly exasperated half-elf, Cordenth’s snout and paws finally freed. This time they were exceptionally careful, now, Lyndis keeping an eye out with a sword drawn.

“There we are.” Cordenth finally sighed in relief as Lyyreth worked on his paw.

With that they wouldn’t have to dig further, as he just shapechange his way out.

“Was that necessary?” Veledar groaned as Lyndis sheathed her blade.

“To stop you from killing my Umraadi? Yes.”

The dragon rolled his eyes with a huff, hiding the fact he was rather pleased by the romantic sentiment, “How sweet of you.”

She kneeled and placed her hands on the green dragon’s dirty scales.

“‘I’m sorry you must see me like this.” His head wilted, tail curling on himself, “Stuck in dirt, at everyone’s mercy, I know it’s not very befitting.”

“Oh, who gives a toss about that.” She laughed, kissing his cheek, “I have you and that’s all the bloody matters.”

As they continued their work, Veledar could not help but notice. That one of the green dragon’s horns was still gold, right above the crown of thorns. Suspicion built once more, could the emperor still be there, waiting to emerge?” A look to Lyndis stilled his tongue, having faith in her and this newly forged bond.

“There you are, try to not be caught next time. I won’t be there all the time to pull your ass out of there.” Veledar huffed.

“True, and I might get out faster!” Cordenth replied with a smirk, springing forth to change his size, slipping free of his earthy prison. Up he pumped his wings, circling the clearing with a tiny warble before landing upon all fours and flaring his wings wide. A touch to his snout, purple smoke burst from his scales, returning the green dragon to his true size. He rose, a towering bulwark before his beloved, sunflower eyes twin seas of wonder. He nuzzled the half-elf, whispering his thanks before stretching his limbs one after the other, serenading them with exaggerated groans.

“Feeling any better?” Veledar asked as the green dragon approached.

“Just fine.” He sighed, starting to shake as if he were a dog. Dirt flung itself in all directions, coating the red and his brother. “Feels like I’ve come out of a dream, flashes of people and events that occurred slipping through my paws. I can’t remember most of it.”

“Wonderful.” He hissed before surging forth, throwing all his bulk into a tackle. He slammed the green into the dirt, dragging the rest of him as well. Their tails slammed like one with a tremendous smack, it was just the prelude for a song of hisses and snarls. In no time their paws were clubs, slamming into one another as they tossed and turned across the ground. Jaws snapped at one another in this intimate dance, often mere inches from their respective snouts.

“What the hell is this for?” Lyndis remarked, having to scamper away to avoid being smacked upside the head by a flailing tail.

“That’s for making an entrance so grand that none will remember me!” Veledar growled, flipping Cordenth over and pressing down upon the wrestling green’s chest. “Figures, you couldn’t let me beat you.”

“It’s not that hard.” Coughed Cordenth with a grin, before swiftly gaining the upper hand and pushing Veledar off him to resume their dual.

“Boys, boys, come on, stop this foolishness! Cordenth we just got you free!” Lyndis groaned, taking shelter by Lyyreth’s protective shadow. “You’re going to get yourself killed.”

“Nonsense Lyndis, this hot aired lizard couldn’t hope to hurt the likes of- “Cordenth grunted as Veledar leaped upon him with a snarl, claws taking hold and dragging him back to the dirt.

“What was that pretty boy?” Chuckled Veledar, “I couldn’t hear you over the dirt you’re eating.”

“Pretty boy? That’s a compliment!”

This continued for several minutes, a symphony of snarls and growls that left Lyndis shaking her head. It ended with Veledar shoving Cordenth against a tree, as his rival recovered, the red brought him low and pinned him with all his bulk to the ground. When the groan of surrender was given, Veledar brought his head high, taking a deep breath before unleashing his triumphant roar.

“Yes, yes, big roar you show off.” Cordenth huffed, his frills a dark green, clearly embarrassed at losing yet another contest of strength.

“Oh, don’t be a sore loser.” Chortled Veledar, releasing his friend, “You know you’d be doing the same thing if you were in my paws.”

“Alright, maybe.” He shook himself off any loose dirt, “But I’d have done it with more gravitas, your roar was terrible, puny.”

Puny? He growled at such a statement. He had defeated Tiamat! He slammed down his paw, “Oh, you think you can do better?”

“I know I can do better.” His chest swelled with pride, “One that will make your human envious of the strength, power, and sexiness that my roar conveys.”

“Your roar couldn’t scare a puny rabbit.” Snickered the red, “But go on, humor me, show me what low bar that Lyndis has.”

“I don’t have a low bar you prick!” Lyndis remarked, “Now could you two stop having a dick measuring contest?”

“Mine’s bigger in that regard as well.”

“Did you want to test that?” Growled Cordenth, lashing his tail. “I’ll love to beat you in a roar and that.”

He rolled his eyes, he supposed this had gone on for long enough. Besides, they could do their contests later. To let him know he was glad for his return he shoved him with his shoulder, warbling before he nuzzled along the green dragon’s neck. To his surprise, there was no snarky response, no quip, no teasing to get mounted. Instead Cordenth closed his eyes and nuzzled back, purring at his touch. Moments passed as red scales ran against green, sharing in the pleasing warmth it gave.

“Thank you.” Cordenth spoke softly when they parted, “I will cherish your friendship. However,” He gave a smirk, “Don’t think that it stops me from besting your roar and winning your mate.”

He rumbled in his throat at such a challenge, swelling his chest, “I’d be more worried that I might do the same. Hear that Lyndis? I’m going to win your heart.”

“Get mounted you scaled bastard, I’m not some prize to be won.” She declared; arms crossed.

“You’re my treasure.” Cordenth rumbled, getting the rogue to blush and roll her eyes.

“Don’t think sweet words saves ya from me thinking your daft at the moment.”

“Which reminds me.” He turned his attention back to Veledar, both dragons thinking the same as they exchanged a nod. “We shouldn’t speak of this again.”

“The nuzzling? Of course, no one needs to know that moment of softness, for both of us.” Veledar replied.

“An image that has to be maintained.”

“Correct.”

“Oh my god you two are impossible!” Lyndis said, “You’re agreeing to pretend to not be friends?”

“We’re rivals Lyndis, it really hurts that image if we’re really friends, and everyone knows about it.” Veledar rolled his eyes, as Cordenth nodded in agreement, “Think.”

She shook her head, squeezing the bridge of her nose, muttering a curse under her breath. “Fine, I don’t care, pretend to hate each other, be friends, or bloody secret lovers I don’t fucking care.”

“If we were lovers which of us would be the top or the bottom?” Veledar planted his haunches, adoring how her face turned red.

“I don’t give a shit. But I think, for putting me through such a bleeding headache, I’m going to be taking a feather from your book.” Her arms rested upon her hips as a confident smirk came to her lips.

“You wouldn’t dare.” Gasped Veledar, “After all we’ve been through? The lands we have traveled. The past few months tossed aside for an indulgence of blackmail?”

“Guess a bit of you lot rubbed off on me, suppose I learned to well.”

“And of course, I want quadruple of whatever she asks for.” Lyyreth warbled, planting himself upon his haunches at her side. He raised his paw, and she gave him a high five.

“That’s now the two of us.” Lyndis remarked with a grin, even as the two dragons before her advanced, hissing and snapping their jaws. “Oh, no complaining like babies now. We’ll just add that to the story about how you two alpha males are nothing but blubbering soft scales. Right Lyyreth?”

“I don’t know Lyndis.” He chuckled, “I think I saw them making out and sucking each other off.”

“I think I saw that too!” Cackled the devious queen.

“Of course, you’d resort to such tactics.” Veledar growled as the pair laughed, “Already a queen and starting to exploit and abuse dragons. Why am I not surprised?”

Cordenth adopted a submissive pose, offering his snout to his beloved with a soft coo, “My love, are you to inflict this wound upon me? Is there anything I can do besides offering coin?”

What fire Lyndis had, died when she touched his snout with a sigh, “Oh don’t worry, all your coin is mine anyway; I think you can pay me back in a different way.” She added with a lustful wink and chuckle.

“Can I get the same offer as well?” Groaned Veledar, only to get a middle finger and told to get mounted. When he turned to the green brother, Lyyreth was all but salivating on what he was going to get. “Would you be willing to let me mount you to pay off this extortion?”

“You think I’m won so easily?” Lyyreth tossed back his head with a laugh as Cordenth and Lyndis kissed. “I think we can discuss a deal in the tens of thousands, or perhaps a few dozen tomes or scrolls?”

“I’ll get Arcturus to do it.”

There was a notable pose as the green dragon’s frills fluttered, would lust overpower the beasts greed? “No, I think the treasure will be fine."

Veledar hissed and growled, this is what he got for caring about these people. Even though he snapped his jaws and threatened the hornless brother, he could not be happier that things were back to normal. Besides, he’d find a way to get his treasure back, such was the things with dragons.

*********

Thanks for following along with this journey this many years. Reunions are had, tears are shed, I hope things have been to people's satisfaction. The next chapter will be the last, as we close the book on these characters near and dear to my heart after all this time.

If you want to follow along with patreon where you can get chapters one week ahead of time can be found here: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=371744

It also has artwork and comics that are being done. I currently have two, one involving Arcturus with a bunch of Ceullus, and another with Dolkar and the human having a rematch in the ilbir's quarters.