Chapter 11: Reach

Mornings were dreadful things that dragons were better off without. Its why they generally missed them, hissed away the sun's uncivil arrival to strike at their eyes.  The winter did little to sway this fact, chilly winds only increasing their desire to bury themselves in mounds of thick blankets. Sleep away the hours they'd say, only till the perfect moment came to awaken. If it were up to them, this would be well passed mid-day, when the sun waited at the honor to warm a dragon's scales. Unfortunately for this dragon, he was in human lands, and Cordenth was slave to a whole new set of rules. Lyndis was all too eager to wake him, nudging relentlessly at his cheeks with her soft fingers.

“Come on sleepy head. We're late for breakfast!" The rogue groaned, wiggling, and pushing till she slipped free of his cuddling grasp.

Groggy, blurry eyes blinked away slumber's lingering presence as Cordenth pawed sluggishly at the air. No groan or moan would save him as he tried to hide beneath a wing. For it seemed half-elves were all but prepared for his draconic strategy. Lyndis was through his limbs without even trying, rubbing at his cheeks, and incessantly prodding his sensitive frill membranes.

“Why though?" He hissed, trying to gently shove her away. “Can we not wait till later?"

Lyndis was not deterred as she proceeded to shed her clothing and slip on another dress provided from her waiting mother. It may have lacked the formalness of the previous night's, but the dress was still a work of art. Orange burst from the fabric like the setting sun, interwoven with threads of crimson rivers. Golden branches spread from the collar, gently caressing her shoulders. “You're aware we need to get things done right? There will be no time for having a lie in until everything is done."

“Oh, how I'm woefully aware. I wonder what sickness I had to come to such a conclusion. “He yawned, flicking his tail onto the bed. “Why not wake me until you were well and done? I see no reason I was to be awake." He licked his nose, searching his fair beloved up and down. He couldn't help but rumble, following with each movement her dress made. “Besides the obvious."

“You can be sure it wasn't for that." She smirked, putting up her hair. “But how fair would that be if you get to enjoy sleep and I don't?" Her voice came as mischievous as the wind. “Not on my watch, you get to all the benefits of the royalty here."

“Then someone needs to change such a thing." He shifted, almost taking out the blinds with his wing talon. “And If you sought to wound me." He sighed, going to stretch but bumping his head upon the ceiling. Wincing he hunched over, casting his princess with a playful a scowl. “You've succeeded."

“I'm to blame for the ceiling now?" She slipped beneath his forepaw when he rose it, snagging a bottle of perfume to douse herself with. It smelled of sunflowers and vanilla, and when his nostrils got a tad too nosey, the mischievous rogue dabbed the end of his snout with it.

“Hey!" He hissed, trying to lick away this all-consuming scent. He nearly hacked as it wrinkled his snout. Clearly someone didn't make it taste like it smelled. “Who asked for me to smell of vanilla?"

She only chuckled, watching in amusement with arms crossed. “Is that not why you were sniffing at me? I just assumed you wanted a douse!"

Again, she was fixed with a glare. “I can't wait for you to adjust to my sleep schedule. Not a moment before mid-day."

“And what will you do with me hmmm?" She leaned forward with a smirk, resting upon his snout. “Keep me captive? Tie me up? Cackle like the villainous dragon you are?"

“Perhaps." He snorted to ruffle her hair. “If that's what you call cuddling between my paws."

“Oh alas!" She pretended to faint, right into his waiting forepaws. “Whatever shall I do?"

“What are you doing?" He nosed at her limp chest till she giggled uncontrollable in his grip.

“S-stop it!" She shrieked in protest, but he persisted with a grin. She was at his mercy.

“Perhaps you should think twice before waking dragons! Consider this your punishment!"

“You…monster!" She cackled; fingers half-heartily grasping at his scales. She tapped and squirmed, but he was tighter than a boa with its prey. For a minute or so she was in tears, unable to resist his teasing.

When she was placed back to get ready, a devilish glean dwelled in her amber pools. It spoke of revenge to be had, at a later date that he knew not of. Cordenth merely chuckled as she started to redo her ruined hair, trashed with his distraction. He flipped up his paw and touched his snout, shifting into his anthropomorphic form in a puff of smoke. He admired his dull green scales in the morning sunlight streaming through the frost tinted windows. He brushed and dusted the viridian things, ensuring not a single tarnish could be found. He tested his frills in and out as he stood tall, chest swollen, and straightened his robes from the night prior. All the while accidently shoving Lyndis from the mirror she was using.

“Do you mind?" She snarked, shoving a navy stick into her hair. “You're worse than a woman."

“Is that so?" He smirked, pushing insistently at her hip. When she tried to counter his tail wrapped around and dragged her against his chest. In an instant their arms were around one another, staring blissfully into each other's eyes. “Hey look at that." He said softly as she pulled him ever closer.

“Don't think this makes up for it." She curled a finger below his snout, resting her lips inches from his. “I'm still cross at you."

“I bet." He snickered before pulling her in for a passionate kiss.

The air resonated with tiny smacks and moans as the pair jousted with their tongues. Their hands massaged and traveled along their backs, seeking to make those noises grow. Snickering and giggling at their behavior the kissing never ceased, it only did when the servants came with a blaring knock at the door.

“Morning mum, are ya decent? The queen wants ya at breakfast bright an early!" The lead maid's voice asked.

He gave a final smooch upon her lips, though when they parted, he could see that longing upon her face. To be sure that later activities might be had, he snuck in a grope to her butt.

“I'm coming!" She blurted, her voice raising up and down like the tide. She turned round to silently batter him as he couldn't help but continue the squeezing of her cheeks.

In a matter of moments, they were ready and willing to leave, all set to get the day over with so that possibly more passionate activities would rule the night. Cordenth smirked at the idea, intertwining his arm with Lyndis, and letting her lead him from the room. The door practically slammed open, nearly smacking the lead maid right in her nose.

“Morning." They said flatly together, ignoring how cheerful and perky the lead maid was. Before the group of maids could even offer another word, Lyndis fixed them with a dreadful stare.

“After the coffee." She merely stated, not even turning when she waved them off. “Then we can start with all the nice days and good mornings!"

“So, what of the uniter?" He couldn't help but ask as they crept through the near quiet halls, trying to drown out the snorting and neighing of any mount's morning call.

“Cordenth, coffee."

“And of your father?"

“Coffee."

His eyes rolled as he tried to keep up at her now increased pace. She was practically running through the courtyard as they made their way to the dining hall, the snow crunching below their feet. “What o-“

Her magical green hand was summoned to wrap it's slender fingers around his snout. “Read my lips." She pointed, “Coffee."

With a soft snort and nod the playful hand was relinquished his snout. Just so things were fair he made sure to accidently smack her with his tail when they walked together. This made her giggle, and the offense was forgiven as they strolled up the snow speckled steps of the hall.

The dining hall was coated with plates of the morning meal. Smoked salmon, steamed rice, beans, and slices of dried seaweed. They were artfully arranged on the ivory plates, patiently waiting their arrival. The servants that were around were polite and courteous, bowing and offering the pair anything their hearts desired. They were placed into seats with navy cushions, right across from Lyndis' new siblings.

Suspicious eyes of the pair found their way off their plates and stuck to the dragon's snout. Silently they chewed, waiting, not daring to move an inch lest he bite their faces off. The little girl then smiled, returning to eating at her rice, as the younger brother's demeanor hardened like a sword. But instead of him, he was staring straight at Lyndis. Even when the pleasantries were exchanged, he didn't waver. Good cheer simply died the moment it entered his vicinity.

They ate in a reserved silence, just trying to get this done with. What would he say to the children anyway? It wasn't until Cordenth was half-way through his belly warming meal that the younger princess slipped from her seat and tentatively made her way around the table. Bravery it seemed to run in the family.

Her eyes were full of questions as she approached, searching him up and down when she came within arm's reach. She gulped, hands fastening behind her back. “Err..Mister dragon?" She tossed back her braided brown hair.

“Don't get close!" The brother hissed, “He might bite you!"

“Don't be silly." The princess waved off his concerns, “He doesn't bite!" She paused, inquisitively meeting Cordenth's eye. “Uh, do you sir dragon?"

“Not that much! Only when they ask." He tried to smile, freezing at what he'd implied. With a nervous laugh he found Lyndis' face, knowing well that human's didn't share their lewd activities with their young.

“Aha! I knew it!" The brother announced pridefully. “Can't resist his animalistic habits!"

“Nu-uh!" The girl was quick to snap back, the same fire as her sister. “He said only if you ask. Who'd be crazy and do that? Who'd like being bited?"

He smiled and chuckled at Lyndis without another word. The rogue silently kicked him under the table.

“Weirdos I bet. No wonder sister keeps him around." The brother shifted to Lyndis. “Is that it? You like being bit?"

Lyndis snapped to him like a well-oiled machine, “I didn't wake up and get dressed in this appalling thing to be made a laugh at breakfast. So fire bit of advice you nunce, mind yer damn tongue. How's that for a counter?"

The siblings squared off with equal looks of ire. The air around them nearly crackled with tension that only the giggling of the younger princess could even hope to put an end to.

“You're snout thingys are funny." She pointed to his frills as they fluttered excitedly on their own.

He exchanged a grin with Lyndis. “Why thank you little one. I think you're nose and really funny too."

“My nose?" She gasped, clutching at it as if wounded. “Is funny?"

His frills pinned. One slip of the tongue and he'd messed everything-

“I guess it is." She chuckled, wiggling it back and forth. “Does yours wiggle too?"

Forgotten was the meal and he did so, making the little one giggle ever harder till her cheeks blushed.

“Would you look at that." Lyndis' brow rose as she sipped her coffee. “One of my siblings has some good manners."

“Well duh." The little princess' arms found her sides. “My brother is an utter prat!"

Lyndis burst out laughing as her brother's aura seemed to ignite everything around him. Even the boy's cheeks were starting to turn a bright shade of crimson.

Pushing past the jovial laughter the little princess was practically leaning on his side. “So mister dragon, what's your name?"

His chest swelled, blood swirled with anticipation. By all accounts, these introductions were going much better than the day before. “That's something we hold sacred to those we trust little one. Though you may call me by a chosen title. Radiant Star."

She nearly bounced on her toes. “That's so pretty!"

“And what is yours?" He smiled in amusement as she came to a sudden stop.

The little girl stood proudly, placing a hand to her chest. “Valencia." The girl curtsied swiftly with practiced ease. And that pile of grump is Albert."

Albert only skewered his meal with a fork, eyeing them with poison. But wisely he held his tongue.

“So." Valincia returned with bigger eyes than before. “What stories you got? You were gone for a long time, you musta had a bunch!"

Like a beat had replaced her head, Lyndis' cheeks turned redder than Veledar's scales. Guilt flickered across her eyes, but was cast away by another hopping question by the younger sibling. With a sigh the rogue played up her adventurers, all taken from her fresh days. Though Cordenth suspected some exaggeration was on display. Her luck she expressed in her stories would have had to be legendary to be true. Though after such a stunning career she did find her way into his arms.

And how luckier could she get? He smiled internally at the thought, admiring how everything was coming naturally to her. The way she kept the younger one on the edge of her breath, even Albert had forgotten his meal and was silently listening in.

“And there we were, surrounded on all sides by smoke wolves, gnawing their teeth…" Lyndis leapt upon the table, spreading wide her arms. “Those wagon thieves were almost too much for us to handle. Their spells were flying, the gryphon we'd rescued was flopping about like a fish."

“And what happened next? Did they get you?" Valencia's little hands rapidly tapped the table.

Albert scoffed, “Don't be stupid Val. How could she be got if she's right there? Its just another tall tale where she was supposed to be here helping mother and father. You know, instead of off playing adventurous peasant girl."

“Nice people skills there Albert." Lyndis harshly eyed the young man. “I can see ya take after dear ole mum. Bit of advice, ignore everything she tells ya."

“I know where I'm supposed to be." He thrust his thumb to his blue silken clad chest. “Not running around like some kid!"

“Ya might want to check in the mirror there." Lyndis leaned back, arms crossed with a smile.

“I have." He was to his feet, eyes cold. “Thanks to you, mum cries all the time. If you were here, maybe Val and I wouldn't need to grow up."

Silence curled around them, settling in for far too long. Awkward stares of fire, intermixed with a dragon all but wishing he were not even there a second longer. Thankfully, his freedom came in the shape of Jeriah strolling through the doors with a smile as wide as his face.

His pleasantries flowed off the tongue, bright as the sun. Enough to draw a wrinkle of Lyndis' nose. Up went her cup of coffee as the guard strolled to them with a bounce in his boots. “Apologies of course for the intrusion lady Lynalla, but your mum would like to have a word with you."

“Anything particular?" The rogue's brow rose. “Like how she isn't at breakfast right now? I mean really." She shrugged her shoulders. “Dragon and I got up for nothing."

“Yea." Cordenth grumbled, “It should be a crime!"

The rough bearded guard smiled weakly, “I didn't ask. But it has to be good though right? She wants to talk!"

“And they sent you…" Cordenth's eyes narrowed. “Just a normal guard."

“I am normal!" Jeriah rose his glove covered hands. “And it was just a message. Figure the royal guard are off doing more important things."

“Like getting the web out of their guns." Lyndis whispered under her breath, slinking away with her arms crossed.

“It's what you wanted right?' Cordenth whispered, following her as she paced around the long table. “Maybe she had a change of heart? She could be planning the reinforcements even now!"

“Gods I hope so." The rogue sighed, “It would be a nice change of pace to get a ruddy win. Though I can't help but be suspicious." She looked up, eyes wavering as she held him close. “Am I so far gone that I see trouble that might not be there? She's my own mother for gods sakes."

He shrugged, “Maybe your confusing our parents with one another." He gently held her hands, “I say go talk to her and relax. This is exactly what we wanted." When she smiled it lit a warming fire in his chest.

“Okay." She composed herself, raising her head to take on a more royal appearance. “And I take it she just wants to talk to me?"

Jeriah nodded, “Yes mum. Royal ears only though. No salacious dragons to be eeves dropping about."

“That's no fun." Cordenth snorted, flicking his tail against the table.

“None of that." Lyndis poked his snout. “Besides, I'll just tell you everything she tells me!"

Instantly Jeriah sighed, softly shaking his head. “I suppose I'll just have to forget I heard that. Really making my life hard miss Lynalla."

The dragon's eyes traveled from the man to the table, landing on the two youngsters watching on in interest. “And what am I to do? Play babysitter for your siblings?"

“Meet with Ryder actually." Jeriah thumbed over his shoulder. “He figured to have a chat with ya over protecting the princess. Not implying you can't of course, but he wanted to share his experience."

Cordenth searched Lyndis for her thoughts, letting his pulsating frills do the talking. This man had been nothing but harshness and speciest the day before. He wanted to have a conversation with him? He could picture it now, hardly getting through the first sentences before they were at one another's throats.

“Oh gracious." Lyndis laid a hand to his chest. “You'll do simply fine. I don't imagine he'll bite or anything."

“That's your job!" Valencia giggled from behind, drawing all the inquisitive glances of the adults.

“It's the teeth." He pointed, frills flaring out in a darker green. “Think nothing else into it."

“I hope not." Jeriah shifted in his boots. “Teeth like that are mighty sharp."

“So, what of Ryder?" He searched Lyndis for the answer. “What can I expect of him? Should I be worried?"

“You'd have to ask him. He's usually been a straightforward man. The stories I can tell you about he and me growing up…"

“Fun ones?

“Let's just say there was one particular one with a siigonis spirit of Draku. Friend of mine was doing the illusion and I was doing the spooky voice." She shook her head with a chuckle. “Poor Izogaz lost all the color in his scales. Punished well over a fortnight for that one."

“That doesn't sound like much fun."

She rolled her eyes, leaning forward to kiss him on the cheek. “Just don't scare him alright? You're trying to make a good impression."

He mimed her response, nuzzling at her nose with his, enjoying the tingling feeling  in the base of his skull. “I'll try. Though you know me." He gave a playful growl. “I can be quite frightful."

“I mean it mister." She jabbed his nose. “I better not find the bloke having a heart attack."

With a final kiss they parted ways. Lyndis racing off to meet the mother in her halls, and Cordenth right on Jeriah's heels. His breaths were coming more rapidly with every stride along the carpeted hallways. They'd just passed the first intersection with an oil painting of a snowy wolf.

“So, where is this Ryder?" Cordenth had to double his speed to keep pace with the guard.

“By the gate Radiant star. In his office. Yea I know a tiny thing, but he likes a more personal approach to his quarters."

“It's just Radiant star."

“Dragon titles." The man chuckled. “Surely you have a real name."

“That I do. But dragons only give them out to those they consider trustworthy beyond measure."

“Well isn't that the lofty position." The man chuckled, tipping his fluffy onyx hat to a passing pair of maids. “Hopefully, I'll find myself among those number before long. Consider it a personal challenge. Never let it be said Jeriah Vorgin wasn't a man of his word."

“Challenge?" He rose a brow as they passed through the halls, emerging into the chilly courtyard below. Already pegasai were fluttering by, teasing the dragon with their fluffy wings. Those that were not, were held at the ready with navy stitched gambeson clad riders with lances held at attention. Three dozen guards were already at attention, statuesque with their fluffy hats proving too much for the gentle wind kicking up the snow. Blue vests made them like morning glories sprouting out of the trampled snow at their feet. Each of them saluted to the dragon before locking onto the various orders that their sunken eyed commander was issuing from a tightly held scroll of parchment.

“And why would you like to do that? Is it because I'm a dragon?' He mused, trying to stick close as Jeriah marched uncaringly between the guard's number. “I'd not start off our acquaintanceship on some phantom grab for power." Though his frills twitched at the idea. To have a willing human tend to his every wish? Grovel and polish his paws? Parts of him yearned for that, rumbled at the idea. He could picture it clearly, ordering servants about while suspended on a gilded throne. He smiled, accidently running right into the poor man who'd came to a complete stop.

“Come on man why-“

The guard merely pointed out the line of white robed clerics strolling across the courtyard. They were a chanting wave of deep crimson, off-white and shimmering gold. Candlesticks longer than they were bounced gently on the air with flickering flames held within their tips. Some magic must have been woven, for the flames knew not the caress of the wind. The men and woman who bore them were belting their morning prayers for all to hear, some even swinging censors behind them, letting billowing strands of smoke crawl from their gilded home to meander across the cold ground.

When the procession of priests had passed, Jeriah was quick to grab his arm and lead him further along. “Not a power grab per say your scalyness. It's no secret you're seeking to court the princess. Figure it not be long off before you're around full time if you get my meaning. Better off having friends in high up places."

“Ah." He chuckled in the back of his throat. “Sucking up to your betters then." He squashed down the idea of the man sucking up in a different fashion. One to a spade tip and an ever delightful hum about his loins. Where were these thoughts coming from? He shook his head, hand going to his snout, playing it off as a headache.

“My betters?" Jeriah paused to give him a questioning look. Silence lingered about him before he chuckled in the back of his throat. “Oh, you mean the royals. That's what some of them used to say. Best not be doing that anymore. Ya might be taking a piss with some aggravated folks."

“I meant sucking up. Just sucking up. Nothing about-“ He once more had to shake his head, damn those salacious thoughts!

Jeriah ignored them and shrugged. “Nothing wrong with that here. I'd call it being smart though. It really pays to have favors with the king and queen, and by the way lady Lynalla looks at ya, that's where you're set for. He nudged at Cordenth's side, and he hated to admit he smiled back.

He rumbled, stroking his chin as he imagined himself with a fancy crown. One gilded with so many gems that any human or dragon would be envious. “King has a nice ring to it." He grinned, unable to hide the bounce in his paws. “Not even mother has that."

“So mister Radiant star. Are you a dice dragon or a card dragon?"

“Excuse me?" He poked his scales, raising a brow. “I'm a green dragon. Were you not aware?"

“No, no…Gods I wasn't being literal." Jeriah shook his head, “I meant playing card, dice, games of ruddy chance. Come now man, dragons must have games they play."

His snout wrinkled. “Those sorts of games are not what we do. Hunter and the prey? Who has the strongest magic? Riddles? Charades with polymorph? See? At least four games you don't do."

“You're telling me they don't do either?" The man rubbed his chin. “Positively wizard."

He rolled his eyes. “I have played what you speak of. Mother's servants wanted to teach us a various things." He held his tongue how Croesus used to destroy his mother in poker.

“Fair enough." Jeriah gave him a smirk. “How about you swing by with or without the misses, and me and the lads teach you a few games. There's even one named after ya."

“I hardly think you have a game named Radiant Star."

“No, but it is called dragon's spaded tail."

Cordenth rumbled in amusement. Of course they had one after dragons. Why wouldn't they? “Sure." His frills twitched, “And perhaps I can teach your lads a few of mine."

“Exactly!" Jeriah laughed, leading him to a set of portcullis build into the wall. It stood high above, its metal bars ending in sharpened points. The space between them seemed large enough to hold him in his true form, minus the space for his wings. The stone here was cleared of any snow, leaving only a solitary door of oak pressed up against the wall within.

He paused, a slight tremor in his heart as the sound of marching boots resounded around him. The wind stung at his membranes, whispering that something was wrong. He could taste it in the very air. All at once his muscles tensed, and his tail flicked ever so cautiously.

“What's the matter my friend?" Jeriah smacked his back, “Getting a little cold foot with talking to the old man?"

He kept his snout shut, following the careful steps of the gathered guards around. Several eyes found their way to him, flickering with worry. They darted away as quick as they came, departing without a word.

“The guards." He spoke softly, counting at least a dozen in the immediate vicinity. “Something has them all nervous."

“Oh that?" Jeriah's arms found his waist as he paid each one a passing glance. He laughed, slapping Cordenth on the back. “That's just the nerves around an important figure! You should see them around royalty, practically jump at the slightest sound." He nudged the dragon in the side. “Good thing for you though right? Practice for the bloody future!"

Now that massaged his scales. His tail curled back as he imagined each at attention, waiting for his beck and call. All at once he relaxed with a well-deserved purr in the back of his throat. “ Well, isn't that nice of them." He gestured to the oaken door. “And I take it that's dear Ryder's office?"

“Of course." Jeriah stood at attention, gesturing to it. “Good luck in there."

He froze, brow ever risen, “You're not coming with me?" He crossed his arms. “Is this a repeat of dinner last eve?"

Up went his hands in defense. “Hey, I only do what I'm told to do. I don't go sticking in my nose where it doesn't belong. They want to talk to the dragon, I bring the dragon. You want him at dinner, I bring him to dinner."

“Uh-huh." He sighed, “Must be really secretive around these royals. Reminds me of home."

“Promise to tell me though right?" Jeriah winked, “Especially if he mentions me and a possible promotion."

He chuckled, striding with purpose to the door. “We'll see." He cracked open the door with hardly any effort, stepping inside and getting blasted with the thick scent of mint hanging on the air.

The room mirrored the location in every regard. From its cramped quarters to it's packed furniture, it was clearly made for one man. Paperwork was scattered about the only table, forming a sea of parchment around an ivory dish with a hardened biscuit upon it. Several candles were all spent, their wax having dripped and collected around their stands. There was only a single trail of cleared space from the door to behind the desk. Even the blue cushioned chairs in front of it were littered with thick tomes.

Ryder was hunched over, his feathered quill scribbling away as his bloodshot eyes followed along the page. He had a five o'clock shadow, his hair was untamed and wild, an empty cup of coffee lay to his side. A navy cloak was wrapped around his gambeson glad chest, pinned together with a silver pegasus pin. As the door shut on its own the man perked up, blinking away as if trying to communicate in code. He rose with a cough, gesturing out a hand.

“There ya are son! Didn't hear ya come in. Nice to see you again!"

Cordenth crossed his arms, leaving the man hanging. “You literally hated my arrival yesterday."

“Ah." He returned his hand to his side. Grimacing. “I've had a change a heart as it were. Queen likes ya, so I'm trying to start a new. Names Ryder." He smiled, showing off his teeth.

“Charming." Cordenth replied bluntly. “You wanted to talk?

He slapped the letter with a grin. “Work just gets to you if you let it." He rose to clean the tomes off the chairs with a hearty thump. “There we are, have a seat have a seat. Don't mind the mess of course, just been busy all morning. So many letters and things going around. Plans to make, actions to take. Life of the royal guard captain is never dull!"

“That so?" He rose a brow, sliding into the seat as he wondered if Arcturus had a similar workload. “We haven't been up that long."

“Perhaps for dragons no. I've been up since four bells already. Wonderful stuff the Lumarian coffee is. Terrible people, but wonderful drink. Really gets ya going." He settled back into his seat, smiling with a shake of the empty cup. “Care for a cup?"

He held up his palm in refusal.

“More for me then I suppose!" He tapped the rim of the cup, having it flare to life with orange runes. Within it, brown bubbling liquid surged forth to the top. It settled with a tiny ding, and steam starting to curl around the blissful looking guard.

The dragon's eye widened, trying to catch a glimpse of what he'd scrawled onto the parchment. It was taken away with a sweep of the hand and a smile.

“Now where are your manners sir dragon? Eyes only for the guard." He rolled it up, stuck it into a basket by his foot, already packed to the brim with so many duplicates. “Messenger ravens are going to have a field day."

“I bet."

Ryder leaned back, a glimmer of hesitation painted about his features. With a curious eye he let it wander, traveling across every scale Cordenth had. Up went the coffee with a casual slurp, and the man's brow hardened like steel. “So, you're here for just the talk is it? Straight to business?"

He nodded.

“Guess that's something good about you. Here I was thinking you're a lazy dragon that doesn't know to get up when he's supposed to."

He ignored the broad brush of the statement and held in his growing growl. “I was given coffee for once, usually we have a lack of that." He smiled.

Ryder gleamed and took another sip. “Indeed. Heard you had an interesting night with the queen."

“That we did." He sighed, thinking back to the pleasant conversation they'd shared. Everything had been quite terrific before the conversation turned grim.

“She's a hearty one that." He gestured to a small picture of her hanging behind a stack of books. “Terrible circumstances, surprised she's even holding up if you ask me. Unfortunate that Lynalla never took after her, always had too much of her father in her. Speaks her mind, rides off without thought. I almost through she'd returned to claim the throne!"

“Its what I like about her. The spirit to act and decide. So, she has a few flaws, but who doesn't?"

Dragons don't of course.

“Either way. I'm glad you invited me. I was afraid we were to get off on the wrong paw."

“Agreed." He chuckled, “Just cause the royalty have a bit of a shout off, doesn't mean us caught in the middle need to. Ever protected anyone before?" Ryder opened a drawer, procuring a thin brown pipe.

Did he think he wasn't able? His frills flared in protest as he snorted in reply. “I'm a dragon."

“And? Does that instantly make you more experienced?" Ryder leaned forward, “Because I raised the girl, I know what the handful she can be! I don't think you can handle it."

Why was this starting to sound like he was talking about his daughter, or a troublesome pet that he couldn't handle. Cordenth sat speechless as Ryder started listing off several accounts of the rebellious nature of his beloved. The one that stood out the most was a time she turned Ryder's prized armor into a set of jelly. Evidently it smelled like strawberries.

“And I'd sleep easy to know the future queen is safe in your paws. And of course, reined in. It's going to be especially important if you're to be winning allies to the cause."

“You'd let her go?" The statement nearly shocked him to silence. Here he thought it was going to be harder.

“Of course! Queen was talking to be all about it last night. Daughter's a free spirit, too rash the queen said she was. Here's hoping our next few months they can work things out more. Really gather the ole riders again and stick it to those shambling horrors. Mind if I smoke?" He wiggled the pipe.

“Months?" Cordenth tilted his head, brow rising. “We can't be delayed for months. The plan was to swoop in and gather the calvary. If we wait, our friends will perish, and the city will fall. Everything will have been for nothing."

Ryder's demeanor drooped as he set the pipe back onto the table. Troubled eyes rose to meet him. “Apologies Radiant Star. I was never the best at this sort of thing, I regret my actions."

For his actions? Like yelling at Lyndis and being rude? Well things were certainly starting to take a different turn! “Oh, no need Ryder. Unlike a crimson dragon friend of mine or my mother, I don't tend to hold a grudge. So, what if you were rather standoffish the other day? That you held firm against us? That was only your job. I certainly wont hold it against you. Perhaps you could join in on Jeriah's card game. Put everything behind us as we work to save your kingdom." His frills fluttered with courage, lacing the air with confidence. Surely that would put this human at ease and win him the green dragon's favor.

Ryder sighed again, seeming standing still from a biting wind. He unclasped his cloak, revealing a green pin of the emerald lady attached to his gambeson. “That isn't what I was talking about."

He was working for his mother? Warning bells sprang to life in his skull as he leapt to his feet. He had to grab Lyndis and leave. Now. Who knew what scheme she had concocted.

“You'll excuse me Ryder. The chat was lovely, nothing was covered too deeply." He went for the door, finding his wrist firmly snatched by the wizened captain. “You have my word she'll be safe."

“Radiant star." Ryder's voice was stern, “You'll be remaining here on order of the queen of Drenedar. I apologize for the deception. If you'd just go quietly, this will go smoothly for us all. Prove that you're a civilized beast."

“Quietly? If you think that you're mad. Tell mother she'll have to try harder." He easily pulled away, lips curling into a snarl. Even here she sought to control him? Did her reach know no bounds? “You won't hold me here."

“Me by my lonesome? Bah, of course not." The man slumped back in his chair, flicking his pipe to the door. “But locked away in a small spot with dozens of soldiers outside? I bet they can knock some sense into you. Just think dragon, you're to bring about the misfortune of everyone else but yourself. Can you not see how selfish that is? How do you expect to be a king then? Lucky for you, mother dearest is so understanding."

  “Mother understanding? Clearly one of us is the more deluded. Take care Ryder, have fun being a puppet for her." He swung open the door in a huff, only to get a metallic cane jabbed with the force of a charging rhino to the back.

“You shouldn't turn your back to your elders!"

With a gasp his world was flipped up and over, the dragon slamming to the cold, hard ground. Frills fluttered madly as his vision blurred around him. The air was roaring past as the gates crashed down with a metallic screech, forming an imposing cell of steel. He could smell the magic in the air, they'd gone to a lot of trouble.

“Knock him out men, he didn't wish to come quietly!" Ryder flung a book at him like a spear, jabbing the poor dragon in the throat.

Focus that he had shattered like glass, bringing life to his true form within the cramped space. Green scales sprung outward, filling out the ever lengthening of his body. Hands turned to powerful paws as he fell to all fours, his mighty wings sprouting like weeds upon his back. Angrily he turned, tail lashing, forcing himself to lower his head, lest he smack it upon the ceiling above. “You've made a terrible mistake Ryder."

“No, you have." The man held out his cane like a dueling sword, bringing life to the very stone.

From the stoneface emerged, eight figures in dark grey robes, clutching staffs or massaging metal lined gloves. Their faces were wrapped from nose to chin, leaving only their steel like eyes watching him. Their camouflage had worked wonders, even now they nearly blended in with their surroundings.

“Secure the dragon lads! He doesn't escape!"

Panic coursed through his scales as the assailants spread out around him. Even as he hissed and batted at them to keep their distance. He should have seen the signs. Been prepared for another of his mother's moves, he was foolish to think she'd have given up. Out of instinct his poison glands flared to life, ready to drown these fools in death, but did mother's servants really deserve that? He instead opted to flee, not even give them a chance.

As the men flourished their weapons and no doubt planned their assault, he shifted to a more diminutive size. Puffs of smoke surged around him, blinded their sight, allowing the now tiny Cordenth to stampede for the bars. Human hubris at it's finest, thinking he lacked the tools to escape. He nearly warbled his victory as his tiny snout slipped right through-

Gale like winds battered against him, whipping about his scales. Each slight crawl forward was met with a near equal force back. Even as he tried to drag himself forward, all he managed to do was drag lines through the stone. His lungs burned for breath, forcing him to turn back and tumble to his haunches. Perhaps their hubris hadn't been overdone.

“Okay you cowardly lot. You wanted to cross paws with a dragon?" He growled, shifting back to his true form, though slightly smaller so that he had ample room to maneuver. He almost had to congratulate them on such a strategy. Arcturus' family might have been proud.

“Don't let him rattle you!" Ryder called from the safety of his office. “He won't kill his mother's servants! Take her son alive, its for his own good! So says the lady!"

“So says the lady." The cloth draped figures repeated, charging like dervishes through the fading smoke.

Metal poles twirled into blurs as the dragon tried to batter them with his paws. Each swipe met nothing but air, his agile opponents as slippery as water itself. Around the enclosure he chased and swatted, only to be met with their strikes upon his scales. They came like thunder, battering him like a storm, retreating before he could snatch them.

“I'd like to see that again." He growled, leaping after them with claws outstretched, they slunk passed him like shadows, hammering at his more weaker sections. Membranes, joints, even his poor frills. No place was a safe haven from their metallic reach. He knew what they were seeking, it was told within some texts his brother had read. Monks trained in such ways would try to stun or paralyze their opponent, unlucky for them it seemed dragon nerves didn't work the same way.

He roared as loud as he could, thundering the steel. How he hoped Lyndis hurt his plight, perhaps she would come in to rescue him from her people's terrible choices. With a surprise turn his tail crashed into two across their guts, sending the pair slamming into the ground. He tried to not smirk at how they tumbled, not rising to challenge him again. Panting he eyed the remaining six, letting them take in his small victory.

“See?" He panted, staring daggers at them all. “Let me go or that shall be your fate."

“You're making this harder on yourself dragon!" Ryder planted down his cane. “Look around. Even if you bludgeon this men to death, you won't be free. Just come to your senses."

“We'll see about that." With a wave of his paw the door slammed shut right in the old man's face with a resounding thud. He kneaded the cold stone below him, narrowing his eyes at his silent adversaries. “Anyone questioning their alliances?"

No replies came as the monks adopted renewed stances, staffs held at the ready. Of course, they would have unblinding loyalty to his mother. That is what she wanted after all. The air stilled and grew quiet save for the whistling of the windwalls and the ever beating of Cordenth's heart.

“Then come test me humans. I'll prove no slouch to fell."

“

Unwavering courage and slippery movements led them past his defenses. In an assault of blinding fury they pelted his vulnerable areas once more. From steel to fist, even powder to throw into his eyes. These servants proved most un-honorable in their tactics. Shivers and knots were driven with force through his flesh, causing the dragon to quake with every new repetition. When it was clear brute force would not win the day, he tried to resort to spells. Even if it might kill them.

Prepared for this, the monks unlatched ropes of an off-white silk. Like a silent cloud of locus they flipped and swirved around him, intertwining his limbs in their binding strands. Every careful movement required for his magical feats was interrupted by their twisted dance. Blood that had been flickering with warmth was now a raging fire, especially as his latest spell was ended with a flurry of blows that struck him square in the nose.

“I said cease!" With a burst of strength, hundreds of individual fibers fragmented and split. Hours of constant, careful work destroyed in the blink of an eye and accompanied with an ear splitting roar. His claws shot out like lightning connecting with the closest poor soul. Softened flesh yielded to the sharpened claws, bursting the reservoir of blood contained within. With the smell of blood upon the air he didn't cease, letting instinct guide his every move. Where once they swerved and dodged, the only met hardened scales and sharpened teeth or claws. Those that had been silent now were grunting and groaning in pain as Cordenth tore into them. One right after the other was tossed into a raggedy pile upon the ground, blood pooling from their grievous wounds.

The green stilled, blood drying upon his scales as he eyed the final, lonesome man. The dragon's tail flicked almost in amusement as he paced around like a predator on the hunt. His prey all but his before he drove the final chomp to the neck. “You're most lucky human. Look around at the folly of your kinsman. I can still be generous and spare you the pain in which they now experience." He eyed the blood stained ground, doing his best to not linger upon it for far too long. He had to do it, they were to deny him if he didn't. Besides, most of these could be healed right? Even now he could still see them breathing, clinging to wounds meant to cripple not kill.

“So, what is it going to be?" He searched him from head to toe, letting what aches trickled along his paws fade into the back of his mind. “Honorable surrender, or painful defeat? My mother does not cherish your deeds. You're nothing but a tool to her, to be used and discarded how she sees fit. Use that soggy bit of meat between your ears, you're condemning Struport to death."

“I do as the lady commands." The man growled, glancing to the groaning form of his companions, “She values us enough to get the task done. You lack vision." The monk rose his staff like a spear.

“And that's why I don't like your people. You follow her like a blasted cult." He finally managed to cast a spell, fading his scales from view. He was invisible, but not as fortuitous was the cramped quarters.

“Your tricks will not save you dragon."

“Says the one with camouflage in his robes." He taunted, slinking out of the way from his attacker's blind flail. When it was clear that peaceful words could not sway the zealots resolve, force was what was to be required. It would give the dragon at least some reprieve to focus on getting out of here. Muscles sprung to life, his paws flew outstretched, and the man never knew what hit him.

In a single swipe of Cordenth's blunted paw, his victim was sent crashing to the ground. Tumbling and groaning he traveled, slamming to the iron gates with a dull thud. His head slumped with a heavy groan, the battle was over. Though bruised and aching from every inch, and his breaths were still in ragged pants, Cordenth had emerged victorious.

See that mother? Your arrogance has gotten the better of you again.

Victory was a short lived thing as the wind walls fell, and the portcullis to the courtyard rushed open with a screech. Beyond it now dwelled a mustered army, ranks of spears and rifles held at the ready. Three smooth barreled cannons rested, glistening in the morning light. They spoke of an end to this brief conflict, he was never in control.

“Fire!" One man shouted, bringing life to the trio of cannons. Instead of cannon balls of dull steel, came thick nets large enough to trap a dragon.

Thick strands enveloped his every limb, dragging him down with ponderous weight. It was slick with some sort of oil that leaked and spread about his scales. He could barely move as he squirmed in defiance, flaring his nostrils in alarm. Sharpened claws tried to cut through what trapped him, but it held him tighter than a snake. He couldn't even raise a paw to his head to change his size. It mattered not in the end, as Ryder emerged to give his final command.

“Electricae." He snarled with the click of a finger, bringing a world of pain.

Electricity surged to life, crackling, and twisting around every fiber binding the dragon so. Pain flared and bubbled across his membranes, practically ripping apart his snout to drag his screams from deep within. He couldn't move, breathe, or even see as pain blinded him from everything else. It only ceased after a near countless time, leaving the dragon smoldering and smoking before the wizened man's feet.

His smirk was more confident as he strolled around Cordenth's weakened form, hands folded across his back. He stopped as the dragon resumed his weakened breathing, lighting his pipe and taking a well-deserved drag. “What say you dragon? Do you surrender to the might of Drenedar's army? Accept the path your mother laid bare before your paws?"

Cordenth glared daggers at the soldiers just watching on, others reloading the cannons. Was he so weak that a dozen humans or so with cannons could fell him so easily? Especially as they stood so close together?

Use your breath. Show them the mistake of messing with a dragon. Send those that survive to spread terror of their folly.

Poison twisted and curled around his glands, some leaking into his throat. Murder gleamed within his eyes, pleading for the dragon to give in. “You can go get mounted Ryder."

The man sighed, “Very well then." With a wave of his hand he announced without a hint of hesitation. “Electricae."

Pain returned in a flash of blinding light, wrapping far tighter than before. Cordenth coiled and twitched like a marionette commanded by a cruel puppeteer. Stars fragmented before his eyes, bursting into cascading galaxies. Time lost all meaning, his voice screeched to the wind until nothing came. Darkness swept in as a final reprieve, spiriting him away in tender arms of unconsciousness.

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Hope everything is going well for all the readers staying entertained and safe! Raining here as I post this up, mind dwelling on the other story I'm writing. Thank you all for continuing along, though I know alot of you don't have the courage to voice your opinions. Don't be afraid to like, comments, and even favorite it for everyone to know. Hopefully whatever these humans have in store for this pair isn't too dasterdly.