Chapter 49

Arcturus allowed Krotos the privacy to console Gus’ family, the gryphon’s solemn words promising the safe return of their beloved. There were tears, heartfelt embraces, and a profound sorrow that Arcturus knew all too well. Finding his way to the ship’s deck, he stepped onto weathered planks that groaned softly underfoot, the night air cool and tinged with the scent of leather wafted through the rigging.

In the distance, the dark countryside unfolded below, a patchwork of shadowed forests and tranquil hamlets nestled amid rolling hills. Arcturus leaned against the rail, his gaze tracing the flickering lights of distant settlements that twinkled like distant beacons in the night.

His mind drifted to lives lost and the weight of responsibility he bore. If only he had chosen a quieter existence, far from the burdens of this perilous journey. Perhaps then, his loved ones would have been spared the cruel toll exacted by their foes. His head sunk from the weight, picturing their gruesome fate. So lost in his thoughts over the evening, he remained unaware of Lyndis’ approach until she pressed a bag of holding into his hands, the silence broken like shards of shattered glass.

"There we bloody are, your cut." Lyndis said with a grin, leaning casually against the ship’s railing. The night breeze tousled her hair as she let out a satisfied sigh. "Though we hit a bit of a snag in the vault, we cleaned 'em out like true bandits. I'd give a pretty penny to see their faces twist in sheer horror when they realize what we snatched from their greedy paws."

When Arcturus didn't immediately respond, she tilted her head and gestured towards the bag. "Don't worry, it's all there, fair and square. Full share as promised, and I even threw in a damn ring and a magical belt for you."

He gave her a nod, securing the bag to his belt before turning back to his solemn watch over the countryside. "You'll forgive me for not being ecstatic; treasure's the last thing on my mind."

"You know we damn near kicked the bucket for that, right?" Lyndis scoffed; arms crossed defiantly. "So come on, tin boy, don't be a bloody cunt."

“Lyndis- “

"And just so we're clear, your scaly lover boy was adamant you wouldn't get any treasure. Because guess what? Treasure doesn't fetch treasure." She grinned mischievously, tapping her chest. "So, count yourself lucky you've got a mate like me to stare that red cunt down and tell him where to go get mounted."

"That does sound like Veledar." Arcturus chuckled, amused. "I appreciate the sentiment. He must have taken it well, seeing as there are no bite marks on you and you're not ablaze."

“Bah, he couldn’t hit me if he tried.” Lyndis leaned against him, flashing a smirk before nodding toward her gift. “You didn’t even check it, mate. What gives? What if I was scamming you good?”

“I think we’ve been through enough that you wouldn’t.”

She scoffed, giving him a playful shove. "Very well, direct method it is. First you, then Krotos. What's gotten into the lot of ya? You're acting as if someone has died."

For a moment, silence enveloped them, the night sky whispering softly above. Arcturus and Lyndis exchanged a meaningful glance, a shared understanding passing between them. Lyndis gasped softly, pulling back.

“Fuck. Someone did, didn’t they?”

“More than just one." Arcturus replied bitterly, his voice tinged with sorrow. He listed off the names of those lost this evening, each soul a heavy burden on his conscience. As he spoke, the faces of the fallen flashed before his mind's eye—their terror, their silent pleas for salvation that he could not answer. By the time he finished recounting their fate, he felt drained, the ache of their loss weighing heavily upon him. Not even the deaths of Garroth and Cornellius could ease the sorrow that now dwelled within him.

Her expression fell, a redness going about her cheeks, “Arcturus…I can’t…Ugh, why did you let me wander into that one, I didn’t mean to- “Her hand rested lightly on his arm, offering a silent reassurance.

"It's all right, Lyndis. You couldn't have known." Arcturus replied with a mournful sigh, his gaze distant as the airship passed over a darkened pond below. "Every choice exacts its toll. Tonight, I paid with the lives of those I held dear. But Gus, at least, we can mend." he continued, his resolve steadying. "Krotos is below with his family, facing the truth and bearing the weight of our losses."

“Bloody hell, I knew the Lumarians were bad, but fucking turning people into mana stones?” Lyndis exclaimed; her voice tinged with anger as she leaned in beside Arcturus. Her initial fury softened into a contemplative gaze fixed upon the vast expanse of the night sky. "And what about you, Arcturus?" she continued, her tone gentle yet insistent. "Why aren't you down there with Krotos and his kin, sharing their burden?"

"It was because of me that they were down there, all of them." Arcturus replied, "As for Veledar... let him savor his victory tonight, with his book back in his possession. No need for me to spoil it."

"I doubt he sees it that way." Lyndis replied, gesturing towards the bag of holding. "He sensed something wasn't right and thought the belt might lift your spirits."

A faint smile touched Arcturus's lips. "That dragon always did have a knack for knowing. I'm fortunate to have him." His expression clouded momentarily. "Though I can't help but wonder how long until I lose him too." He gripped the railing tightly, steadying himself against the tremors threatening to overtake him.

“Hopefully not for a long while.” Lyndis reassured him, patting his shoulder gently. “All I can say is, hold on tight. Make each day count as though it might be your last.”

Arcturus nodded solemnly, keenly aware of life’s fragile nature, like a delicate balance on the edge of a blade. He composed himself with a sniff and a brush of the night breeze, finding the strength to lift his head high. “No need to worry about me. I’ve weathered such trials before.” he said with a soft laugh, gently moving Lyndis’s hand away from his chest. “Trust me, I’ll be fine. Just a moment of weakness.”

“Alright, but don’t you dare act like a nob.” Lyndis replied sternly, pointing a finger at his nose. “If you need to lean on someone, do it. There’s no shame in it.”

“And who do you suppose that someone will be?” Arcturus retorted. “What makes you think I’m sticking around?”

Lyndis scoffed, meeting his gaze with unwavering confidence. “Oh, come on, mate. I know you’ll be sticking about. Where else are you going to go?”

Given all that had transpired, Lumara was no longer a home to Arcturus. His heart weighed heavy with the revelations of the night, truths that shattered illusions and pierced his soul. He sighed deeply, the burden of responsibility settling upon his shoulders like a mantle of duty.

"I see but one path ahead of me now." he confessed, his voice grave and determined. "Tonight, the sins of my people have been revealed in their darkest form, beyond what I had ever imagined possible." His gaze swept over the faces of the crew bustling around them, each occupied with their tasks on the airship.

"I must confront this evil." he continued, his resolve hardening. "I will seek out and dismantle every shadowed stronghold where these abominations are created."

Lyndis listened intently; her expression thoughtful as she absorbed Arcturus's words. She nodded slowly, acknowledging the weight of his mission.

"Aye, sounds like you've got a noble quest ahead." she remarked, her voice tinged with respect. "Taking on the sins of your own, that's no small task, Tin Man."

She leaned against the railing, her gaze drifting over the starlit expanse above them. "But remember, it doesn't mean we can't make a few stops along the way." she suggested with a sly grin. "While we're smashing Lumarians into bits, we could swing by the Ice Falls of Whitedell, maybe take in the singing hills of Fureen, or gaze upon the diamond peaks of Titan Misa."

Her tone turned nostalgic "And if we ever head east, there's this bloke on the shore who makes the best damn bread you've ever tasted."

“Now we just have to convince Veledar to come lend his aid- “

Lyndis followed Arcturus's gaze, a mischievous grin playing on her lips. "Oh, he'll come around." she remarked confidently. "Once he's had his fill of counting his coins and admiring his shiny trinkets, he won't resist the call of adventure for long. Besides, if not, you're the one who holds the key to Veledar's heart," she teased, "All you have to do is bat those eyelashes, flash that charming smile of yours, and he'll be putty in your hands.

Lyndis's words carried a knowing certainty, as if she had foreseen this moment all along. Arcturus flashed her a grateful smile. "I suppose Krotos will be joining us as well." he mused aloud.

"The more the merrier, I say." Lyndis replied with a smirk. "Though I'll keep a bucket of water handy for any of his antics.”

“If it’s all the same, I should as well.”

Together they laughed, until it eventually faded into a soft sigh. “One can admire loyalty like that.” Lyndis said softly, “Even finding it’s way into gryphons you thought you knew.”

“You speak of Natassa?” He rose a brow.

“That I do.” She sighed.

“Will we be getting another gryphon to accompany us as well?” He shook his head, “We’re going to be a circus by the time we fly out.”

“Bah, already spoke about it, coming back was a onetime thing.”

“She already said that before, didn’t she? Perhaps she will surprise you again.”

She sighed, leaning against Arcturus, “I’d like to think it, but won’t be getting my hopes up.”

He leaned back into her, enjoying what company she brought. No more words came as they watched the night pass them by, though he knew the days ahead would be fraught with pain, it was one that he didn’t have to endure alone.

** * * * * * * *

Veledar shifted restlessly in the hold, his treasure gathered into bags of holding. How he longed to sprawl upon it, to let its comforting presence soothe his weariness, but it was not nearly enough. Weariness tugged at his eyes; the thrill and comforting balm of new treasure had long since waned, leaving only the biting sting of the night’s disappointments to torment his soul. With a heavy sigh, he drifted back to the haunting memory of the lavender flames that had consumed his most valuable treasure. He knew those flames would haunt him for the rest of his days.

Some great dragon he was, certainly not one worthy of song or legend. Decades ago, he’d boasted he would be the greatest, a dragon with no equal. Now, the image of his youth seemed like a cruel jest. What would his brother say now, knowing he had died for nothing? That the great legend of Veledar was nothing more than a fleeting wisp in the wind? All for what—a mortal’s love? A love that wouldn’t even last a century. He growled at the thoughts, the bitterness clinging to him like a shroud. Yet, even in this dark contemplation, there was a flicker of gratitude when he was summoned to the captain’s quarters.

As it turned out, he was the last to assemble for the information session. Arcturus in his wisdom had demanded the dragon’s presence, adamantly refusing to proceed. Did the captain regard him as nothing more than a fancy horse to ferry Arcturus’ fancy ass around? Veledar’s growl resonated fiercely as guards gathered to fetch him, a stark realization dawning upon him that the captain had intended to neglect his inclusion altogether.

“Do you take me for some mere beast, to be disregarded at your convenience?" He scratched lines into the floor, drawing out several audible gulps, “I’ll be having cross words with your captain on his brazen display of disrespect for fire breathing dragons in his hold.”

The intimidated souls stammered out their apologies, wisely opting to placate the dragon rather than provoke him further. A few deep bows were sufficient to appease Veledar, who grumbled in response and followed their lead. Resigned to his scaled form, he adjusted his size to that of a gryphon; the narrow hallways were ill-suited for creatures of his stature. He made sure to maintain a height just slightly taller than Krotos's, unwilling to let the gryphon surpass him in size.

He was escorted to the captain’s quarters, which surprised him with its expansive size and meticulous design. The room, spacious enough to accommodate several gryphons with their wings tucked, boasted a vaulted ceiling that comfortably cleared their feathery heads. The walls were adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes of aerial battles and mythical creatures, while mana lanterns hung from sturdy wooden beams, casting a warm glow that played off the polished metal engravings of gryphons in flight.

The furnishings spoke of both comfort and practicality. Numerous cushioned chairs surrounded an oval table of fine craftsmanship, its surface adorned with a detailed map of the countryside. Entis, the Lumarian capital, was prominently marked, with miniature airships strategically placed to indicate key locations. The cushions on the chairs were the color of clay and intricately embroidered with gold thread. Near the far wall, a large desk made of dark oak dominated the space, its surface littered with navigational charts, arcane instruments, and neatly organized stacks of parchment. A crystal decanter filled with amber liquid stood next to a set of crystal glasses.

Arcturus, Lyndis, and Shandalar were already seated around the table, deep in discussion with Striker and Warf, their heads turning as Veledar entered. Their eyes, filled with curiosity and concern, quickly shifted to his imposing form, acknowledging his presence with a mixture of relief and anticipation.

“Crimson Sky, good of you to join us.” Captain Striker greeted Veledar with a grin, gesturing towards a side table adorned with cups of steaming tea. “Care for some Gryphon's Wing Grey?”

Veledar grunted as the guards departed. “Don’t play innocent, Captain. I know you nearly forgot me.”

Striker chuckled heartily, meeting the dragon’s sharp gaze with amusement. “Arcturus made sure to remind me, fortunately.”

“Keep it in mind.” Veledar warned as he strode over to Arcturus’ side. “Dragons aren’t horses for ferrying you and your kin on your quests. We have our roles to play, just like any other.”

Striker's response was filled with laughter, cheeks reddened by the dragon's remark. "Apologies, Crimson Sky! Rest assured; I won't make that mistake again!"

Examining the map with a sigh, he continued, "Now, why have you summoned us to your quarters? Make it quick, as I wish to retire and hold my Umraadi close."

"Gets what he wants and then wants to sleep." Lyndis muttered with an eye roll. "Typical."

"Rest will have to wait, dragon." Striker replied somberly, pointing to a squadron of ships surrounding a miniature Destiny on the map. "Four ships are closing in on our position. I hoped Shandalar's forces would keep them occupied, but it seems Suntail has rallied against us."

"And Shandalar's efforts amounted to nothing?" Veledar growled incredulously.

"I wouldn't say our efforts were in vain; they bought us time." Shandalar remarked, "However, the inquisitor proved more resourceful and swifter than I had anticipated. She neutralized the elementals sooner than expected."

"And what, pray tell, do you expect of me?" Veledar straightened, gesturing to himself with a clawed hand. "While I'm flattered by your faith in my abilities, I can hardly bring down more than one of those ships from the sky."

"I agree with Crimson Sky." Arcturus added, resting a reassuring hand on the dragon's shoulder. "None of us are prepared for another battle. We are low on spells, supplies, and utterly exhausted."

"Which was not our original intention." Shandalar circled the table purposefully. "Striker and I have devised a plan to turn their persistence against them. This is where you and your companions come into play."

"Bloody hell, we're being used as bait." Lyndis interjected, arms crossed defiantly, eyes blazing. "Listen here, you can take that plan of yours and shove it right-"

"Not you." Shandalar cut her off, gesturing to Striker and the room at large. "But this crew and their captain. You and the others will assist me in disembarking from this vessel. Once we evade our pursuers' scrutiny, we'll seek refuge and proceed to Rothdell. I have contacts in Nearon who will be eager for the intelligence we've acquired. With any luck, they'll uncover weaknesses in the Uniter and more about this golden dragon Nigel was interested in researching."

A great golden dragon, long thought lost with its vast riches? Veledar's interest was immediately piqued at the mere mention of another hoard to add to his own. Some might have believed he possessed enough treasures for a lifetime, but they sorely underestimated the insatiable avarice of a dragon. Admittedly, the plan seemed sound; at the very least, it promised to divert the gryphons' attention away from them. Yet, Veledar couldn't shake the feeling that this was turning into one of those infernal side quests.

"And what makes you think we'd be inclined to embark on this countryside jaunt?" Veledar snorted, fixing his hardened gaze on Shandalar. "My mission to Entis is concluded."

"He'll do it." Arcturus interjected, drawing Veledar’s ire.

“Excuse me?” He growled.

Unperturbed, the knight continued, "Naturally, he will expect a substantial fee. The services of a dragon are not offered lightly."

Though he displayed outward annoyance, Veledar inwardly appreciated that the paladin had learned something about him. He hid his interest with a head risen, a deep growl resonating down his scaled throat, he even added a flick of the tail for added effect.

"There's no need to fret over that." Shandalar assured, tapping the map. "I can promise you a fortune for this, if that's what you're after. My order will move mountains to ensure these plans reach their destination unscathed."

"Anything?" Veledar's eyes glinted mischievously as he mentally counted the mounts of riches, coins and magical items that would line his hoard.

“Yes, anything that you can imagine.”

“I don’t know.” He stroked his chin with a wing talon, “I can imagine quite a lot.”

“You’ll get it.”

Was that desperation in the sun-elf’s request? Though she didn’t show it otherwise, it made him want to rumble that she was practically begging for his services.

“And what about diamonds as part of the payment?” Lyndis interjected. “That might just be the enticement Asterion needs.”

“An astute suggestion. A healer would prove invaluable.” Veledar acknowledged with a nod. “Diamonds must indeed be included in this substantial fee.”

Shandalar paused briefly, carefully selecting her words. “I’m uncertain if we can gather enough to satisfy the demands of the cleric of Korde.”

“It would be a start.” Veledar rolled his eyes, “And guarantee that he sticks around instead of hoofing it on his own.” Though this traveling quest of theirs might include more hiding as a gryphon to avoid detection, it might help soothe the ache over losing his brother’s tome, at least for a time.

"And what of yourselves and the others?" Arcturus inquired of Striker. "Are you prepared to go down with the ship?"

Striker dismissed the concern with a wave and a wry smirk. "Not if we have any say in the matter." He indicated the map, tapping a spot beyond the dragon neck mountains, stretching into the vast expanse of the Forest of Despair. "We'll lead them on a wild chase, use a few tricks we've stored away. If push comes to shove, we'll head for the Forest of Despair. Shandalar mentioned you have some acquaintance with its ruler?"

“We’re not on the best of terms.”

"That's putting it mildly." Lyndis interjected with an eye roll. "I'd say make that your last resort, mate. You don't want to find yourself tangled up with that Emerald Cunt."

"Don't worry." Striker assured them, a hint of weariness creeping into his voice as he leaned against the table. "We knew the risks when we signed up for this mission. Just focus on your end, alright?"

As they strategized it was made clear the Destiny was to act as a decoy, creating a dazzling display of lights and maneuvers to divert the attention of the pursuing Lumarian ships.  This would allow them to slip away undetected, following the whispering path southward, keeping close to the shadows. From there they would divert east for a time to avoid several known patrols and the likes of another fortress in Lumara’s name. Once they’d reached the plains of the sword they would again go south, eventually following the shadow of the silver highlands. Provisions were to be prepared for their journey: potions of healing and stamina, enchanted scrolls for defense and communication, and rations to sustain them through the rugged countryside.

“And what of Mary and Gwen?” Arcturus was the one to ask.

"They'll need to stay with you." Striker stated firmly. "Where we're headed is far too perilous for passengers."

"You must jest." Veledar retorted, his posture defiant. The thought of safeguarding everyone under such precarious circumstances was daunting enough; adding Mary and Gwen to the mix would be akin to shackling his wings together.

"Don't worry about it." Lyndis reassured, placing a comforting hand on both Veledar and Arcturus' shoulders, exuding confidence. "Natassa was never planning to stick around anyway; that bird owes me a few favors. The least she can do is ferry those two wherever you need them."

"I heard Krotos mention his folks up north." Arcturus added thoughtfully, stroking his chin. "You'll have to discuss the details with him."

"Think that sly bird will stick her neck out for you?" Veledar scoffed skeptically. Despite her change of heart, he wasn't convinced of her altruism.

"Trust me, she came back for us, she'll do this." Lyndis reassured, patting his scales and giving the dragon a grin. "And if she doesn't, I'll stab her several times for old times' sake."

** * * * * * *

The order was given, the plan meticulously forged and relayed, leaving Arcturus and the others to pack their belongings and ready themselves for the impending separation. Under the dazzling cover of a cannon fire barrage, their departure would be masked by a brilliant display, allowing each party to slip away unnoticed. Natassa, with Gwen and Mary in tow, would venture north, while the rest would navigate the intricate route toward Rothdell’s borders.

As they prepared, Arcturus spoke of his family’s estate, a place long buried in the recesses of his memory since his departure. The estate stood as a grim reminder of his family’s dark legacy—killers of dragons, who slaughtered without heeding the creature’s intentions or mannerisms, collecting coin from whoever could pay. The thought of his crimson love stirred within him a deep-seated loathing for his own bloodline, a blight upon the land, one that would die with him. Yet, this dark place would serve their needs as a temporary refuge. If anyone sought him out, they’d know he had never been there for years, it would be the last place he would seek refuge.

In the depths of the hold, the adventurers prepared with a methodical urgency, attaching harnesses, and cramming pouches and bags of holding to their limits. Striker’s crew, seasoned and efficient, offered rations of dried meat and nuts, along with waterskins and even flasks of mead. They equipped the group with an array of healing potions, defensive scrolls, and enough ammunition to last through several skirmishes.

Veledar, amidst the flurry of activity, felt a swell of pride at the meticulous care being taken. But when two guards hesitantly approached, asking if they might pet him, his eyes narrowed dangerously. Casting them away with a well-placed snarl for having the audacity of thinking him of some common dog.

Arcturus worked diligently, his hands steady and practiced as he slipped Veledar into his flying harness. He threaded one belt after another through the sturdy metal rings, ensuring each was secure. The dragon, stood imposing and strong, clearly putting on a show.

Behind them, Shandalar unfurled a massive carpet with a grand sweep, revealing a canvas of deep indigo and royal blue, embroidered with intricate patterns of silver and gold that seemed to shimmer with ancient tales. At each corner of the carpet, stood towering trees depicted in emerald and ruby hues, their branches intertwined with dragons of midnight black and molten gold. These dragons coiled protectively around the tree trunks, their eyes glinting like precious gems. The roots of these majestic trees cascaded beyond the carpet's edge, transforming into delicate tassels dyed in earthy browns and vibrant greens.  Gathered from the ship's stores, this magical carpet was their solution for those who couldn't ride on gryphon or dragon back. Its threads shimmered with enchantments, promising safe passage through the skies.

“I still can’t believe you kept an estate secret from me.” Veledar grunted as Arcturus circled around in front of him. “What else are you hiding?”

He paused, brushing the dragon’s cheek before moving to his other side. "It’s not something I dwell on." he replied evenly. "It never defined who I am or what I aspire to be. Even now, I’ll endure its necessity for the sake of our mission. But after tonight, I have no desire to see it again."

The dragon fell silent for a moment, gears turning audibly as he considered his response. As Arcturus raised his paw, Veledar lifted his head with a playful snort. "Since you've seen my mother's home, it's only fair I gaze upon yours, so I can properly mock it."

"Mock my home?" Arcturus arched an eyebrow, catching the mischievous glint in those sapphire eyes.

"Of course." Veledar chuckled, his pride evident as he rolled a paw across his chest. "What better way to make your ancestors seethe? Show them that their latest line not only fraternizes with their greatest enemy but sings as he’s pressed into the sheets of his bed with great enthusiasm." His remark was punctuated by a smirk and a happy thump of his tail.

Cheeks flushed as a flash of the dragon’s thoughts rushed through their bond. “Well—” Arcturus coughed, “Clearly you’re in a better mood.” He tightened a strap along the dragon’s flank. “When we escaped, I thought something might have been off.”

The dragon’s head turned to him, silence once more gripping his snout. From within his scales Arcturus felt a sense of unease, words left unsaid as he snorted, "Off? Oh, just the thrill of the chase, I suppose." Veledar tossed his head and shifted from paw to paw, "Nothing to concern yourself with. We've got places to be and plenty to do. Are you finished?”

So, something was off. Arcturus grimaced, not knowing if it was wise to press further, let sleeping dragons lie after all. He tugged at the leather, ensuring it was secure. "Looks well enough, should hold. Guess I'll find out later if it comes undone and I plummet to my death."

"Like that would happen." Veledar scoffed with a growl, his confidence unwavering. "I would catch you like last time."

Whatever troubled him clearly wasn’t enough to interrupt that draconic confidence; he let him hold onto the secret for now. His hands found their way to his scaly snout, rubbing along till a growling rumble elicited from his throat; the battle between wishing it to cease or continue playing out with every stroke.

Veledar snorted dismissively. "Always prying into my affairs. What about you? Noticed you and Krotos have been rather cozy."

“No need to be jealous.”

"Why would I be jealous? No one could possibly compare to me." Veledar retorted, giving a toothy grin.

Arcturus sighed heavily, his gaze distant as he recounted the events in the vault—the loss of his friends, his perceived failure, and the lingering weight of regret. "I've weathered trials like this before. You needn't concern yourself with my well-being; Lyndis has already imparted her counsel upon me."

Scale tenderly met flesh as the dragon nuzzled his cheek, a protective crimson barrier soon wrapping around him. His voice was deep with concern, "I didn't know. You should have told me."

Arcturus met his gaze, a mixture of gratitude and guilt flickering in his eyes. "I didn't want to burden you with my troubles on a night of triumph." he confessed, his voice quieter than usual.

Frills fluttered outward as the dragon’s eyes steeled, "Your well-being is more important than any victory of mine. Remember that."

A pang struck his heart as he gently stroked Veledar's scaled jaw. "Foolish it was of me. I won't forget it next time."

"See that you don't." Veledar replied, pulling back slightly before affectionately giving the man an affectionate, hair ruffling chuff. "Gus was a good man."

"He was the best." Arcturus murmured, his voice thick with emotion as he wiped a tear from his eye. "But justice will come in its own time, mark my words."

“Is that why the kittybird is coming with us?” Veledar lifted his head, clearly looking to the others, “Here I thought it was him trying to get me to mount him.”

“I mean, knowing him, there might be a hint of that.” Arcturus gave a weak laugh, “I’m just glad that Asterion heard us out and agreed.”

Leathery wings folded against the dragon's back as Arcturus’ gaze shifted to the cleric in question, who was currently busy questioning Feku on her packing methods. The kobold was busy hissing at him, assured that everything had been accounted for and was loaded onto the magic carpet. 

"Guess he's not entirely insufferable after all." Veledar's rumbling voice broke the silence, drawing Arcturus's attention back to him. "Wasn't sure about him at first. You know how followers of Korde tend to view dragons."

"I wouldn't have guessed." Arcturus replied dryly.

"They see us as a test, a challenge to overcome." Veledar continued with a roll of his eyes. "A feeble excuse, but there it is." He paused, his voice taking on a rare solemnity. "Somehow, he's grown on us."

"How sentimental of you." Arcturus remarked, resting a hand on the dragon's withers. Veledar pulled back with a hiss.

“I meant growing on me like mold, of course. Don't get the wrong idea."

“Sure.”

The pair made their way over to the others, who were meticulously going over their equipment. Commander Warf's gravelly voice cut through the air, announcing that their departure was imminent.

"Ye call this a journey?" Merlia scowled, hoisting her pack onto her shoulder with a grunt. "We should be out huntin' our meals, sleepin' under the stars, bathin' in Nutambar's beauty! Instead, we're loungin' about in Arcturus' fancy resort?" She sneered in disgust. “Nothin but a bunch of babes.”

“Come on, fun as a campfire and sleeping under the stars is, you can’t pass up a chance for a bit of comfort.” Lyndis sighed, tightening the green sash over her leather armor, "But gods forbid, if you're so keen on roughing it, feel free to find the nearest patch of dirt and make yourself a cozy little nest. No one's stopping you from embracing Nutambar's loving embrace.”  

"Och, why am I not surprised? The dainty princess likes her feather pillows and hot breakfasts served on silver platters. Perhaps ye need a servant to fan ye while ye nap, eh?" Merlia wheeled about, hands on her hips, “I'd sooner sleep with the squirrels than in some fancy feather bed like yerself. Nutambar wouldn't recognize ye without a blade in hand and mud on yer boots!"

“Oh, now you’re being daft.” She rolled her eyes, “Don’t worry, I'll save a spot next to me for when you get tired of sleeping on rocks and come crawling back to civilization."

A tempest of curses, insults, and furious gestures erupted as Merlia, her face as crimson as Veledar’s scales, invoked the legendary dwarven Book of Grudges. In its pages, meticulously recorded by each clan, lay every slight, misdeed, and affront—an unwavering vow of reprisal for each transgression. Amidst the storm of words, Krotos approached, clad in a patchwork of leathers adorned with glinting metal plates. His saddle, weathered yet meticulously cared for, sat atop his sturdy back, flanked by pouches bulging with provisions. Behind him trailed Mary and Gwen, their expressions etched with melancholy.

"There won't be a day I won't think of you two." Krotos chirped softly, affectionately nuzzling his head against both Mary and Gwyneth in turn.

Mary, tears welling in her eyes, gently placed a finger on the gryphon's yellow beak. "Now, don't go getting into too much trouble out there, Krotos." she said, her voice wavering. "Gods know you have a knack for it."

“I can’t help it.” Krotos said softly, giving a sniff.

"See to it that you don't." Mary insisted, "And Arcturus, I'm counting on you to keep his beak out of trouble. Promise me you'll watch over him."

Arcturus gave a solemn nod. "I'll keep a close watch over him."

This was enough to placate the weary woman. She held Krotos's feathery neck tightly, their foreheads touching. "May the gods protect you until your return."

"I promise." Krotos murmured, his eyes closed, and ears pinned back. "I won't come back without Gus."

"But I don't want Krotos to leave." Gwen cried, clutching her stuffed gryphon tightly. "He can't, mommy, tell him he can't!"

"Gwen, my dear." Krotos murmured, lowering himself to the girl's level, his wings enveloping her in a comforting embrace. He gently wiped away her tears with a tender touch, his voice soft yet resolute. "You must understand, I must do this."

Gwen sniffled, holding onto Krotos tightly as she pressed her beloved gryphon toy into his chest. "Then take Champion of the Air. He'll keep you safe."

Accepting the worn toy with reverence, Krotos studied the fluffy brown and white thing, recognizing its significance. "Gwyneth, this is yours. Your father gave it to you—"

"Yeah, it was his favorite." Gwen interrupted softly, pushing the toy back when he tried to return it. Tears streaked down her cheeks, "But you should have it. It's dangerous."

Krotos hesitated, touched by her gesture. He carefully tucked the stuffed toy into one of his pouches. "Very well, I'll consider it a good luck charm."

As Gwen smiled through tears, Krotos extended his wings and enveloped both her and Mary in the warmest hug he could manage. "I'll be counting the days until we're reunited."

They reluctantly parted ways, the urgency of their mission beckoning them to prepare. Krotos bid his final farewell before settling down, allowing Merlia to mount him and secure herself in the saddle. Mary and Gwen mirrored the action with Natassa, the gryphoness greeting them warmly with a gentle chirp.

Arcturus tightened his grip around Veledar as the ship's hold creaked open, releasing a blast of frigid wind that clawed at them mercilessly. With a hiss, the dragon maneuvered towards the opening, followed closely by the gryphons. Beyond the hull, the roar of cannon fire echoed as the Destiny launched its diversionary assault.

“Fly now, fly now!” Warf bellowed.

Without hesitation Veledar carried them into the crip night air. His powerful leathery wings pounded than pinned, bringing them into a dive. Arcturus held on, his heart pounding despite the smile upon his face. It was hard to not get swept away in it, even at this moment. The wind whistling through his armor, battering his face in icy claws, there was no exhilarating feeling upon this plane. As Veledar began to spin he leaned ever closer, hardly even aware as the choir of cannon fire opened to conceal their escape.

** * * * * * * *