Chapter 34

The streets of Struport swiftly became the battleground in which the Guardians were forced to defend. Every walkway and back alley turning into avenues for attack, turned over carts and crates being used as barricades to slow the encroaching tide that was the dead. Still, the same story was told throughout the night’s wee hours, the clashing of steel and the spilling of blood.

Screams and the sounds of battle were a common song, a cacophony of suffering that reached every soul. It came to gunfire, the snarling of wolves, to the hissing sound of dragons painting the cobblestone with their fire or spells. Despite the Guardian’s efforts they were fighting a losing battle, with every hour they lost more and more ground, precious minutes paid for in Drenedar blood. Overhead the sight of risen gryphon and pegasai joined the ranks of the dead, depleting what little morale remained among the defenders. Defense soon became an organized retreat, some seeking shelter in Fremra’s keep, others the ports, where the last of the boats might deliver them to safety; others found refuge in Lord Threllfall’s keep, huddling together to weather the oncoming tide of dead.

When morning, the sun painted across the land as if in mockery. Waves of gold reached down to give shape and weight to the undead’s victory, revealing for all to see the scores of dead that had perished in the eve. The whole city had inundated with rising clouds of smoke, remains of fires and where their battlements had fallen. Though the air was cold and crisp, the frigid claws that had sunk into the flesh of those that remained alive could not be matched.

From the sea came not a sign of hope or freedom, but that of a cloud of oppression. Dozens of ships with sails full had swept into the harbor in the last hours of the night. Each flew different flags of shapes and sizes, mercenaries and pirates all brought under Dreadflame’s cruel banner. They assailed Struport’s gate in which was used to secure the harbor from attack; swiftly over taking the defenders and raising their banner over it’s stone keep. With it they rose the great chain, trapping those that remained in the port, dooming them to the mercy that Dreadflame’s forces would have for them. To make matters worse, this fleet of ships had a brass dragon flying among them; his scales shimmering in the morning light as he unleashed a roar that all but sealed their fates.

Jandar, the teal dragon once a man, was raised up to his hinds, a careful paw placed upon the tree of his youth. The dragon’s tail was ever flicking as he chanted words of draconic power into an unending song. Each verse sent orange ribbons of magic down his scales, ever twisting, and churning until they reached out like fingers to the sky. They wove themselves like a net around Frema’s keep, forming a barrier of hardened light in which none could pass. Sword, spear, arrow, human or dragon, all were equally kept from passing through it. The once mage had been keeping it up for hours, the guardians that patrolled could see the weariness on his snout. Black lines had already started to trickle down his scales, starting from his eyes and snaking their way to his tail. Color drained faces kept flicking to him as guardians sought to better secure the gate with mounds of wood and stone, one thing was certain, the dragon could not keep this forever.

Despite this grim cloud hanging over their heads, the guardians work tirelessly to secure their final place of defense. They ensured ammunition was handed out, barricades started to be constructed within the keep’s halls, every soul within handed a weapon and expected to defend this place with their life. The wounded and those too old or young to fight were escorted further down into the caverns below the keep, hoping that they’d last long enough for Lyndis’ reinforcements to arrive.

Nivra found herself within these catacombs, down path adorned with copious amount of moisture and too little light. It reminded her of the secret passageways throughout Entis, meant for the royals to escape should they be assailed; she’d never seriously considered using them herself, but this still sent a shiver down her spine.

The mage was weaving illusions to protect the numerous branching paths from sight. Fremra’s words were fresh upon her mind, of plants and other things held deep within these catacombs, not dangerous for the dragoness herself but more than deadly to humanoids like them. Nivra lingered upon all the fear filled faces that she was giving a chance to survive, hundreds looking to her with pleading expressions. She couldn’t look them in the eye, not after the previous eve, not after due to her failure the city had fallen.

Bags were beneath her eyes, threatening to tug her down, sleep eluded her. How could she anyway, it was her responsibility to ensure these people were safe. Her heart darkened with every finishing of the spell, children calling out for parents that were not there, citizens murmuring on how long they might survive. She’d already gave the instructions out a half dozen times, but it still never made her feel better.

“Don’t go traveling deeper into the paths, there are dangers too great for the likes of you. Stay still and quiet, the illusion that I cast don’t prevent sound from passing through. They won’t last weeks, but with any luck, rescue should come after Queen Lynalla comes with reinforcements.” She spoke the words to the newest batch, sounding all but hallow. She saw the darkness that lurked on each of their faces, that Lyndis would not arrive in time, this place would be their tomb. The future queen of Lumara swallowed down this bitter pill and moved on to the next passageway and group, already holding up her staff to begin the conjuring of the spell.

As she held high her weary arm, the sound of gryphon talons upon the stone caught her ear. She sighed, knowing of whom it must be. Turning, revealed that she was not wrong, it was Voidwing, Skywing and a whole handful of other gryphons. Each of them appeared to be as tired as she was, their feathers and talons sullied and adorned with dried blood. As she paid them attention, they bowed their heads.

“Nivra.” Voidwing was the one to break the silence, the onyx and white gryphon closing the distance between them. Apricot eyes watched her movements, fraught with storms of hesitation. Ears splayed, “I do believe it’s time we do as we discussed.”

“I still have much to do.” She replied firmly.

“We were not asking your majesty.” Skywing spoke up, his voice firm. The commander gestured to the other gryphons behind him, each a mirror of himself. “We will do what we must to ensure your safety.”

She began to weave her next spell, scoffing at the commander’s demand. “Can it wait commander? I’ve only gotten halfway done in these illusions. Are you asking me to leave these people without even the hope of rescue?”

“I’m asking for you to leave it to someone else. The dragoness that calls this place home, her children, anyone else can weave illusions adequate for this task. Your place is to return home and survive.”

“You need not remind me of my place commander.”

“And yet I believe I must.”

She huffed, a warmth spreading through her bones as the commander and his gryphons took a step forward, clearly dead set on dragging her against her will. “Skywing, it is you that should know your place.” Nivra snapped around, eyes like fire, giving all the gryphons pause. “If I am to be your future queen, then if I wish to stay you must allow it.”

“That would be true.”

“Then I will remain to help these people until the very last moment. That time is not yet here…even despite my failure last evening.”

“That was not your fault Nivra.” Voidwing said, striding to overtake Skywing, “That dragon would have dispelled your wall anyway. It was a losing battle, one that should not have you lose sleep.”

“And yet she has.” Skywing gestured, “See the blood in her eyes, the quivering of her arm. Your majesty, should we wish to take you from here, I doubt you could prevent us.”

“Skywing, I forbid this of you. Take one more step, do this and I shall have you drawn and quartered.”

“Good thing for me that you’re not the queen yet.” He remarked with splayed ears, probably wondering if she was serious. “But I would breath easy knowing that you were safe.”

Raising her staff, she brandished it at the gryphon commander. Despite his bravado and courage, that brought an end to his advance. “There are others that have thought me weak commander, they were proven wrong. Know that even though you are Arcturus friend, I shall not be dragged out by the likes of you.”

“You’re being stubborn.” Growled Skywing, lashing his tail, “Just like your father. I’m trying to save your life your majesty. Cannot you see that?” He gestured to the others with his head, “Even if I have to save you from yourself. Please Nivra, don’t make us have to drag you out.”

“No one is forcing you to do this. You’re choosing this.”

“I swore an oath to protect the royal family and our kingdom. Nivra Graysword, I have no choice but to take you against your will.”

Power pulsed upon the air, waiting for Nivra to give it form and shape. Silence came as the gryphons and her eyed off, each waiting for the other to make the first move. Would the day end in tragedy, with more deaths or injuries? The princess grit her teeth, hating what this had come to. This was her mistake, one she needed to fix; how come they couldn’t understand that? “The others are willing to help, I must. Don’t you see, all of you? We helped in this outcome to these people. Get this through your feathery heads, I must do this.”

Skywing sighed, “And so must we.” Muscles tensed ready to pounce, the gryphon then giving a harsh snort. The only thing that stopped him from making a further move to subdue the princess, was a silver lined onyx feathered wing.

“Nivra.” Voidwing’s voice was a calm in the storm, he snapped his beak to the others, bidding them to retreat. “May your husband approach?”

“Of course, you’re allowed.” She replied not taking her eyes off the others. “That was a question that never need asking.”

The gryphon bowed his head and slunk to her side.

“Voidwing, you said you’d help us.” Skywing squawked, feathers ruffling.

“And I still am.”

“You’re helping him?” Nivra tried to pull away from her love, but the gryphon was already upon her. His wings wrapped behind her, pulling her close to be but inches from his beak. “How could you?”

“I’m not going to drag you away from here like they want to do.” He replied softly, not looking away. His talon found its way to her back, tender as it had always been. “But I would be amiss if you did not meet whatever you choose without your bodyguard at least by your side.”

“You didn’t answer the question.” She gestured to Skywing, “How are you still going to help them?”

“By convincing you to go.”

“Voidy-“ She ran her hand through his feathery face, “Not you-“

“Nivra, you always told me that you wanted your people’s best interest at heart. That you would be the greatest queen for our kingdom.”

“And that is still what I want.”

“Does that involve you dying here?” He tilted his head, “Involve, us dying here? For I won’t be leaving your side.”

She trembled, “You mean to blackmail me with your impending demise?”

“I’m only wanting to know what you truly want to do.” He whispered in her ear, “I’m just here to say that you have me by your side every step of the way. I just want to know, is today that we stay and die, or flee to fight a different way? I’ve always trusted in your decisions, your judgement, so I must know.” He nuzzled against her with a soft chirp, tugging at her heart strings, “What would you have of me my love?”

Curse him, curse that beautiful face of his. Her fingers caressed his feathers, found warmth against his flesh. His words made her weak, want to collapse, weep before all the gryphons presented to her. What resistance she had to leave began to waver and bend, eventually crumbling in the caring apricot traps that was his eyes. “Oh, Soft paws.” She replied, voice shaking as she caressed the underside of his beak. “You think we will die here?”

“You saw what happened last night, what happened all those night’s prior. The defenders here prepare for the end, most don’t expect to survive the night. I’ve seen gryphons older and braver than I meet their end in the last few days. Each trusted in your judgement and strength to carry us through. You said that when the time came, you’d come with us, well, even if you don’t like it, now is that time. Time to return home to the Entis woods, lead your people, do what good you can do from there, instead of out here.”

Of course, he’d use her own words and wants against her. To think he’d ran away with her to chase after a red dragon and a traitor to her kingdom. Nivra pulled Voidwing in, thankful that he shielded them with his wings so that the others could not see the tears welling up in her eyes. “I don’t wish to go, look around.”

“I know.” He held her close, pulling the princess in against his feathery chest. “But we can’t help them by dying, can we? They have fought for their home; you must return and do the same.”

“And what of the orb?” She pulled back, wiping her eyes and gathering what remained of her image. “Are we supposed to leave it here so that Dreadflame can pluck it from the city’s bloated carcass?”

“The orb is being talked about your majesty.” Skywing said, his voice lacking the arrogance that it did. The commander bowed his head, ears splayed wide. “The guardians have called Arcturus and Krotos about it.”

Days before the thought they might have considered this was impossible. “They must be desperate if they’re looking for their help.”

“They don’t like the prospect. You should have seen their leaders barking about. I think they’re less fond of letting Dreadflame get his paws on the orb than two citizens of Lumara.”

Nivra’s nose wrinkled, “Clearly they don’t want us to get our hands on it either. Else they’d have called for us would they not?”

“Think that might be for the best, wouldn’t it?” Voidwing sighed as she caressed his face. “Nivra, I know you don’t wish to leave but look around. The wall has fallen, the sea is blockaded by pirates and mercenaries, how could this not be the time to go back home?”

She couldn’t deny him, his words cutting through the ache that had gripped her. Nodding slowly, she cupped his beak, “You are right my love as you’ve always been. I can always count on you to pull me back from the tempest that rages around us.” She pulled him forward, kissing him on the beak then holding her forehead to his. “The time to go might not be now, we shall wait for the council’s decision on the orb. Within our walls, behind our ships and cannons, Dreadflame would stand no chance.”

“You’re not suggesting we- “

“Of course, you’ve not heard me utter such a thing.” The princess shifted his beak closed before wrapping her arms around his neck and holding tight.  “But who am I kidding, I couldn’t even retrieve Arcturus. You know the corruption that rests in Entis’ walls, how might we be the ones to forever burn it out?”

His wing came to her back, holding Nivra close. “If anyone could shape the future of Entis and beyond it’s you. Tempered by adventure, wisdom past your ages, Nivra, I know you can do this. Even though fleeing here might appear to be a loss, you’ve done more than anyone expected of you.”

“Your words are kind, but I can’t help but feel there is always more.”

“I think that’s just your need to be a perfectionist. Any slight loss is a travesty to you.”

“Voidy…this is a city…there is no jest to be had.”

He took a deep sigh, “I know, I’m just trying to cast away these doubts. You have allies, friends and servants that will back you when you route out Lumara’s corruption. It might not be done in the next month, year or even decade, but I know you’re the best woman for the job.” He gave a soft chirp with a nod, “And I know I’m terrible biased on the subject-“ Eyes closed as she pulled him into a passionate kiss.

She pulled back, his eyes hooded as the air was graced with a pleased coo, “This is why I love you.”

“Sure, it’s not for my crown feathers?” He chuckled, as the mentioned feathers rose one by one.

“Very sure.” Nivra turned to Skywing as she slipped away from her love. With a deep breath she composed herself, adopting the stance of their queen. “Skywing, today we leave as you’ve wanted.”

“I understand princess.” Skywing dipped his head, “And I understand the difficulty in the choice.”

“However, should the council here fail to do what needs to be done…we will be doing as Voidwing here thought I was suggesting prior.”

The gryphon pulled back, head cocked, “You don’t mean to say that we should- “

“Yes.” She eyed the rest of the gryphons, seeing the shifting of their hinds over the idea of stealing from their allies. “But if we mean to protect Sethera and beyond, then it needs to be done. Do I make myself clear?”

Skywing’s ears twitched as he searched her, the gears behind his eyes turning. After a moment he gave her a resounding chirp and bowed head, “As you say. We’ll make the preparations as we await word.”

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

 “Do I need to move you against your will?” Veledar growled, standing within the keep’s halls, narrowing his gaze at the sapphire guardians standing in his way. “As last I checked none of you were Alonso.” His tail flicked as the leader among them, a woman with an eye patch barked her reply.

“The council of guardians did not request your attendance Crimson Sky.” She crossed her arms against her armored chest, eying the dragon up and down, “We’re thankful for your help the last few days but they ask that you remain outside.” She gestured to Arcturus and Krotos that lay waiting patiently behind the dragon, shaking their heads at his display, “For they only requested them.”

He snorted as he scoffed at the notion, “You think that I would allow Arcturus alone with your precious council after all the events we were forced to endure? Do I need remind you that it was your people that wrongfully arrested him and tried him?”

“Of which he was found innocent and cleared of all charges, I don’t see the- “

“What you fail to see human, is that trust with your people has been ground to dust. Though Arcturus was not killed by your order, I won’t simply allow you the chance to try again.” He lowered his snout with a hiss, enjoying the hesitation that flickered to life within the trio of guardians before him. “Now I won’t be asking you to move again. They wish to see my Arcturus; they will have to deal with myself.”

The woman, faced with the imposing sight of a growling dragon, peered to Arcturus for any kind of support, “Those were Ruby guardians that tried to imprison your Arcturus, we, the sapphire guardians have always held Fremra and her allies in high estee- “

“Onyx, Ruby, Sapphire.” He shook his head with a harsh snort, the dragon’s blood bubbled, “I don’t care what you call yourselves. Your people betrayed us, and even now, I’d not trust you as far as I can throw you.”

“Arcturus, can you talk some sense into your dragon?”

The knight didn’t even have a moment of hesitation as he crossed his arms, voice as firm as the dragon, “I may be easier to forgive than my mate, but his exclusion to me reeks of mistrust. He is not some fancy horse in which I ride or order about, he is my companion, my ally, my love.”

The dragon rumbled in a growly way, “Oh how sweet your words are.”

“And if you should wish to speak with me, then his ears will hear of it as well.”

“I will of course hear what they want me to hear regardless.” Krotos chirped, proudly rolling a talon to his armored chest; it was just as weathered as the feathers that adorned him. “But I recommend you listen to the dragon, he’s a stubborn beast of no equal. You should have seen him with a certain elven wizard- “

The lead guard grit her teeth as the guardians behind her gave nervous looks; no doubt wondering if they were to be maimed by an upset dragon instead of undead. “Look, Crimson, my hands are bloody tied. It’s not because I hate you alright? We and the lads respect ya to no end.” She tapped on the door before them, one that appeared to be a tight squeeze for the likes of Krotos. “It’s not a proper hall that they’re using, it amounts to that of a broom closet. It’s tight enough in there with the lot of them, last thing they need is your tail mucking things up.”

Krotos tilted his head with an amused warble, “It certainly could be classified as a weapon. I’ll be honored to speak in the dragon’s stead.”

“Like hell you are.” Growled Veledar, snapping to the gryphon, “I’ll squeeze in there. There will be no denying me.” Back to the woman he shifted, letting her soak in the intimidating fluffing of his frills,  and revealing teeth, “And you’ll find my resolve as sturdy as the foggy mountains themselves. Will you stand in my way?” He added a harsh snort for added effect, ruffling her braided hair.

This final trick seemed to crush her own resistance. The guard groaned, blushing under the dragon’s attentions. “Fine, do what you want dragon.” She grunted, jabbing a finger at his nose, “But I tried to warn you.”

With a crack the door was open, the diminutive hall put on full display. It was tall enough for Arcturus or Krotos to stand upright, the wooden beams would nearly graze their heads. Tables of fine oak had been pushed together to make room for the gathered knights. The far wall was home to numerous books, a pair of cushioned chairs shoved into the corner, revealing the study this room had been. Candles cast their enchanting glow to the numerous faces, as they discussed plots and schemes of the prior night. Veledar huffed and changed his size, emerging from a cloud of Lavender smoke just as large as Krotos.

“What is the meaning of this?” One of the knights questioned, one in a blue tabard, his face bruised and adorned with scars. Green eyes flashed with flames as Veledar strode inside, having to duck his head lest his horns catch on the wooden beams above. “We gave no word for your dragon.”

“And yet he decided to come anyway.” Veledar replied with a snort, squeezing himself through the door, it was arduous, but doable. “Arcturus is not my master, nor you lot the boss of me. I go where I please, say what I want, this is the freedom of a dragon.”

“Free to hit your head on the rafters?” Numbra, the sun elven guardian mused.

“I could do that if I should choose as well.” He planted down his hinds, careful to not do as the woman had hinted. The dragon’s tail curled protectively around his human and gryphon as they pressed forward and gave the hall of knights deep, respectful bows. “But I look upon you and see a pack of wolves.” He paused as one of the gathered knights was a wolven, “Oh don’t give me that look, I meant in regard to the trial.”

“You still hold that over us?” Akita Graymane, the wolven guardian rose a brow as the Halmick, the dwarf bellowed with laugher.

“This be my kind of dragon.” Halmick rose his tankard, “Slight him once and it’s never forgotten. Within that there boy beats the heart of a dwarf I tell ya.”

“I apologize for Crimson Sky’s insistence on the topic.” Arcturus rose, side eying the dragon to behave himself, “But I share his reluctance to come alone. You’ll understand his mistrust.” To that the guardians exchanged furrowed brows but did not reject the knight’s premise.

“We are just glad that you’re here.” Numbra commented, calling then for order. “This matter is of little consequence in regard to why you were brought before us.”

“And why were we brought before you?” Krotos sat with a happy trill, a smug expression on his beak, “No doubt you’d heard of Arcturus and my skill, seen our prowess on the field of battle-“The gryphon gave a wink, “Heard of our skill in other departments-“

“Bah, you two were the only Lumarians we could trust!” Scoffed Halmick, “All the rest of ya answer to that princess of yours in one way or the other.”

“You’re aware that Arcturus is technically still a knight of Lumara?”

“One that no longer heeds her call.” Halmick tugged his beard, “At least ignores it enough to be trusted.”

“Oh, for fucks sake dragon change your size again!” Numbra snarled as Veledar perked up and banged his head on the rafters.

“And lose my intimidating presence?” The dragon growled, slamming a paw to the table so that he could drag his talons through the wood, “I’d like to remind all of you that I could pounce at any moment.”

“Doubt ya could do that lad.” Countered Halmick, as Veledar’s tail lashed against the wall. “You can barely fit as it is!”

“I only need my snout to fit to roast the lot of you should you try something dastardly.”

“Crimson Sky.” Arcturus cut through the squabbling and snarling dragon like a blade, firm eyes met Veledar’s own. “I do believe we can hear them out, your ability to bath them all in fire is obvious.”

There was a moment of silence as the hall looked to him, of course Arcturus would be the one to still his growing flames within. One last flare of his nostrils and harsh snort saw the conversation to its end. He offered only a minor compromise by shifting his size so that his horns would not drag. The dragon growled as Krotos chuckled to him in amusement at their similar heights.

“Now then, with the mattered settled, why is it that you’ve brought us here.” Arcturus folded his arms behind him. “Before we end up cutting each other’s throats.”

“Or burning them.” Growled Veledar.

“Yes, or that.”

Despite the rocky start to proceedings, the glimmer of their need shined through each of the guardian’s faces. They shared knowing looks before heaving great sighs, the weight of the days prior clear for all to see. It was the sun elf that broke the silence.

“We have brought you here to discuss the Orb of Dragonkind that we have within our possession. Though we would wish to keep it locked in our vaults or stashed with Fremra’s hoard, the times that we find ourselves announce loud and clear that we can no longer do so.” She sat upright in a regal nature, clinging to what strength that she had. “Our city, once a shining jewel is now battered and broken, the gates shattered and without men to protect her. The shadow of this Dreadflame falls upon us all, the cusp of victory on his scaled lips.”

“You want us to take it from here then.” Stated Veledar, “To keep him from getting his paws on it.”

Halmick sighed, “Cause as reluctant as we are to put it in the hands of a Lumarian, Arcturus, you and your dragon are the best chance we have at keeping it from the enemies’ hands.”

The paladin shifted, clearly mulling the words over. Within was an air of concern, reminded that the orb would try to possess whoever was around it; all the artifact needed was a hand placed upon it. The dragon spirit within had the power to tempt those to approach, the knight’s resolve to resist would have to be great indeed. “I know this is a heavy task for all of you.” Arcturus’ gaze swept the hall.

“Not as arduous the road you shall walk.” Akita grimaced, “It will try to pull you in, tempt you, you’ll have to resist it’s call. Even the slightest mistake might mean your very soul is forfeit.”

Arcturus rose a hand, “You need not remind me. I’ve had my share of experiences with Dreadflame and his kin. You’ll find that the only dragon’s charms I cannot resist are right beside me.”

Veledar rumbled as the knight peered back, laying a hand upon his scaly hide.

“Lets just hope that you can place duty and commitment to the orbs defense over the charms of said dragon.” Growled the wolven. “Are we sure that Arcturus and this group are our best chance?”

“Arcturus has the ability to resist mental abilities and enchantments.” Veledar’s rumble shifted to a growl, eying the woman with distain, “There is no other choice that you have. Know that if such an orb was in my possession, I’d never part with it willingly.”

“Is that so?” Numbra rose a brow, the thought seemingly never crossing her mind. “You would guard it as jealously as him?”

The dragon scoffed at such a notion, nearly drooling over the idea of having such a valuable artifact within his hoard. The value it contained alone would double if not triple the worth of his mountains of treasure. “My dear, you’d have to pry that orb figuratively from my cold dead paws.” When Arcturus turned to him with a questioning look, he gifted the man a possessive growl, “That goes double for my Umraadi.”

Krotos was the one to flare out his wings, squawking in protest as they nearly knocked Arcturus and a knight into the wall. “So, I was brought here for nothing then? How come I can’t be the guardian of the orb? I have talents too you know.”

“Can you lot refrain from expanding your wings?” The human guardian groaned, trying to shove Arcturus and the gryphon’s wing off him.

“Right.” Krotos’ ears splayed as he retracted them under the piercing gaze of the council. “Still, my point remains. I might not have the magic, or be a dragon, but I’m willing to help.”

“Oh, please Krotos.” Scoffed the dragon, “You can’t resist an aggressive male minus alcohol, let’s not talk about possession of an ancient dragon spirit.”

The gryphon turned, his tail flicking as his beak opened and closed; a moment passed before he wilted with a deep sigh, “Fair enough. I still can help fly and ferry it around.”

“This is the group we want to give it to?” Halmick growled, slamming his fist into his palm, “An arrogant dragon, a gryphon with his mind in the clouds and a mere man?”

“Arcturus is no mere man.” Hissed Veledar, eyes narrowed, “And I dare you to say that again.”

Halmick eyed Veledar without flinching, “I’ve faced down beasts larger than you dragon, with worse breaths too!” He searched the other guardian’s faces, “How can we expect any of them to resist the charms of this orb? We’d be better off giving it to one of my people and sending it off to the foggy mountains!”

“You don’t have to like it.” Arcturus spoke up, dusting off his tunic. “Nor agree with it. The fact remains as my Umraadi said. I am the only one that can resist it’s calling; he has the wings to carry us wherever we wish.” He heaved a great sigh, “And unless you’d rather your own lands be the dragon’s next target, we’re your best chance for success at denying him any bit of victory.”

The council all shared knowing looks, the dwarven knight reclining in his seat as reason took hold of him. “Arcturus Lund, paladin of Bahamut, we wish you to ferry the orb away from these lands.” Numbra finally broke through the tension, eyes traveling not just to Arcturus but all three of them. “Hide this orb where that dragon with the black heart can not find it. Keep flying, keep it hidden, never speak of what you do with it. Don’t even tell us what you should do with it, for the chance that we are to be taken into the enemy’s paws.”

“And you lot go down with the city?” Asked Arcturus, his voice heavy. “Has there been no word from Lyndis?”

“None. I think it’s time that we no longer base our actions on her arrival.”

As the knight grimaced, the human guardian sighed, “It’s a bitter pill to swallow I know. Look around you Arcturus, our city has crumbled, our spires have collapsed into the streets. Our people now huddle in caverns waiting for death, this is us pleading to you for this one last act of defiance.”

“Aye.” Halmick nodded, “Help us spit in his eye if you would.”

Arcturus swallowed hard, his insides a churning storm of regret and guilt. “Should you not start evacuating people if things are so dire? Get what ships you can-“

“Boy, the port is sealed off by a fleet of vessels, all bearing the allegiance to Dreadflame. Fremra is doing what  she can with her portal magic to evacuate the young and old, we are doing what we can.”

All those people trapped, Veledar growled at the thought of it all. He could picture the slaughter as they’d be left to Dreadflame’s devices, each life snuffed out a long and drawn out affair, sating his resentment at his defeat. His thoughts soon turned to his missing friends, the ones he hoped were huddling for safety at the port at this very moment. Merlia, Feku and even Asterion, each of them he’d given his name to. When the council asked of them again to take the orb, Veledar glared, lashed his tail against the wall and bellowed with a resounding, “No.”

“What do you mean no?” Everyone snapped to him.

“I do believe it’s a negative. You want me to carry Arcturus away with this orb, I refuse.”

There was a moment of silence as if it were a dream, they questioned if the dragon was being serious.

“Crimson…” Arcturus stammered, as the dragon gave the man a prideful grin.

“I do believe there are people still trapped within the docks.” He rolled a paw to his chest, his voice taking on a brassy tone, “And I won’t lift a paw to help them until we at least manage to get a score of them to their boats.”

“Madness!” Halmick shouted, “You’d want us to dispatch their entire fleet!”

“Then you best get on that.” Veledar growled, “Some of those trapped within the port know my name dwarf. You should know that dragons don’t take that lightly, I shall not discard them in such a fashion.”

His statement gave them pause, clearly seeing the merit in his words but failing to side with them. “Arcturus, help us convince your dragon to see reason.” Numbra turned to the knight, “That the lives of the port pale in comparison to those saved should we ferry the orb away from here.”

Arcturus turned to the dragon with an honest smile and a raised brow, one that brought a rumble to the dragon’s chest. He crossed his arms, taking his place at Veledar’s side, “I agree with him believe it or not. Until we’ve done all we can for the port, we won’t be taking the orb anywhere.”

“Madness. Total madness.” Shook the woman, “You doom us to death!”

“No, you doom these people to death.” Snorted Veledar with a grin, “We’re the ones trying to save as many as we can.”

“You’re just doing this out a bout of selfishness, to save your allies! You’d doom the rest of the world for them?”

Veledar let them bask in his coming growl, knowing that he was deadly serious in this matter. When it was clear he was not to budge, conversation turned not on if they could even stand up to the fleet that held them at its mercy, but how.

“I do believe I have an idea.” Krotos chirped with a grin.

“No, you don’t.” Veledar rolled his eyes.

“It will involve a dragoness, a tiny bit of deceit and the critical eye that yours truly can provide.”

“Arcturus can you believe- “

The knight rubbed his beard as the council waited with bated breath, “I think I know what he has in mind.”

The dragon snorted, already he knew he was going to hate the idea.

** ** ** ** **

Skies were choked with grey, the breeze wailing through the docks. Wooden boards creaked and swayed under their assault as huddled masses clung together for warmth. Tales was fractured and fraught with fear others what might come, that their safety would not last the day. Dozens of faces of all races were drained of color, those among them the weakest and without spirit to fight. Ships that had been bound to leave come morning found themselves grounded. The means for their escape denied them. It was bleak, those with any courage left could be counted on a single paw.

The harbor was sealed thanks to the metal chain net at its mouth, what was meant to secure the docks was now their doom. Outside was a fleet of wood, steel and dragonfire powder, waiting to pounce at the will of their dragon leader. Above it the beast did cast its wicked shadow, sunlight catching off it’s brass scales and adding a layer of beauty that betrayed its intentions. It would dip around and roar, signaling those to stay back, and if one refused, end them with its fiery breath.

With that means of escape denied them, attention turned to the gates in which held back the encroaching dead. While not as strong as the external ones to the city, more than enough wood, stone and steel had been gathered to secure and barricade them from entry. Perhaps it was due to their insignificance in the grand scheme of things that they still stood, but undead masses still gathered outside and scratched upon the gate, whispering promises of death should they emerge. One thing was certain however, they were corralled, cut off, left to wait while Dreadflame’s forces worked on Fremra’s keep.

Asterion stood with the remaining sapphire guardians that had fled here, the morning air bitter to taste. His fur was matted with dried blood and scars from the previous evening, their victory over the balor; while thrilling, could not fight back the sting of their defeat. The cleric searched the men and woman keeping their courage together against the shambling hoard, impressed with the mettle that they’d shown.

He patrolled the worn gate in which secured their safety, spying the dents and scratches of numerous years upon it. Beyond ear could catch the groans and symphony of inhuman snarls, growls, and grunts, each one a reminder that they were trapped. His ears flicked at such a thing, squashing down the distain in his gut; if this was to be their end, he’d rather rush out to meet it instead of huddling inside these walls and waiting for it to find him.

Gathered near this last stand were the tents that contained the wounded, ones that simple healing magic would not suffice. He growled at the off-white fabric, fingers forming fists. Though he knew the cleric’s attention was better left to those that needed it, it was not right that warriors should die in their beds. He’d already been warded away more than once, wishing to grant them the mercy that all warriors were given.

“People of this land confound me. They’ll allow their warriors to die in their beds, drowning in blood and without a weapon at their hand?” Asterion snorted, arms crossed as he found Merlia among the walls.

The dwarf was huddled up beside some splintered crates, overlooking the walls of the gate. Her furs and leathers were smeared with blood, most of it not from the undead themselves. Bags had formed under her vigilant eyes, a weariness spreading to the rest of her. “Leave it to your people to think it be better off killing people in their beds instead of healing them.” The ranger padded herself over, holding her pipe between her fingers. She cursed, clearly out of the weed. “Blast all the luck.”

“They will die if the undead get through.” Asterion grumbled, lashing his tail as he surveyed the broken buildings, the smoking clouds, the undead fluttering about the sky. He growled, they had all but ignored them, were they too pathetic to focus on? “If they would finish us off.”

“Bah, you can see them up there, dancing. The lot of them would rather be fighting the keep and the dragons. Figures we’d end up here, not even worth killing in the end.” Merlia gave a heavy sigh, resting a hand upon the stone, “Surprised your not with the rest of your lot, complaining to the guardians.”

“I have complained to the guardians.”

“Yes, but not being able to die? The horned bastards came all mooing about being locked up in here, asking to charge out and be put to an end.”

“Better than waiting for it to come.”

“Think it be that bad then?”

“Look around Merlia. We are trapped like rodents, while our enemy focuses on the true threat. In the end they will come to put us to the sword or burn us with fire. I would rather meet my end by my choice, then leave it up to the hand of our enemy.”

She scoffed, “Sounds like you want to give them a reason to focus on us then?” Her attention shifted to the broken buildings, where a glimmer of the keep’s shimmering field of light could be seen, “Least give the lads up there a bit of reprieve.”

“If they are still alive.”

“Oh, don’t go on about that now. You know well as I do that they be alive. You think the red baby would stick around to be killed? Especially after he ripped apart that demon beasty?” She laughed in a grim way, “No, he be flying off on his little wings, off to tell the land about what strength he had.”

The bull flared his nostrils, “I’ll admit his victory was…well earned.”

“Don’t want to praise him?” Merlia rose a brow with a smirk.

“You won’t hear me do so. Though I will admit that when we next meet him, the dragon and I must share a boar and mead.”

“Ah, wouldn’t that be nice. Peeling the meat right off the bone, instead of the blasted goodberries.” She dug into her pouch, popping a small red berry into her mouth before tossing one to the cleric. “Might be filling to the belly, but it certainly could do with more flavor.”

“That much is certain.” He popped the fruit into his maw, the juices that splattered against his tongue rather bland. “No wonder my people wish to charge out to their deaths if this is the food they have to enjoy while waiting.”

“Don’t you folks want to live?”

“Preferably, how else do you think we will win a war and reproduce?”

“You heading back home to father some strapping young bulls and cows?” Merlia laughed, “I don’t picture you the fatherly type.”

“The thought has come to me since my honor has been restored. That I would return to the place of my birth, of Kyr. There I would raise a family, hunt game, chop down the trees, provide as a warrior should.” Asterion mused, “But it would seem such an end is no longer on the winds for me. Even if such a thing was waiting for me, it’s poor of a minotaur to die at home of old age.”

“So, what, do yer old just go out for one final go and meet their end? One last adventure and battle?”

He nodded softly, picturing himself with gray hairs, finally facing off with the thing that would kill him. “If only I could be so lucky.”

“So…if you’ve given hope up on winning this whole thing.” She gestured to the streets below, where a smattering of Minotaurs had gathered to sing and wait for the coming battle, “Why are you not with your boys right now, asking for death?” She smirked as she caught his eye, “Don’t tell me you’ve taken a liking to these soft humans and Thor worshippers? That despite all of this you still cling to hope we should live?”

He snorted at such a notion. “Your god is pitiful Merlia, I’d love more than a chance to prove that to you and the Ceullus that pay homage to him. Even then, I would not wish for you to die without an ally by their side.”

She gasped in surprise, “Look what I found!” Out from her purse she procured a satchel of halfling leaf, “Oh by Thor, he knows how to lighten the mood! Which speaking of better topics, I be at one hundred thirty, how fair you?”

“One hundred twenty-five.” He snorted as the dwarf began packing her pipe. When she was finished, he extended an arm and ignited it with a quick flash of holy fire.

“What would ya know, a follower of Thor, sharing a smoke with the holy flames of Korde.” Merlia laughed, offering him a drag after she’d taken one of her own, “You’ve earned it.”

Asterion took the offering, taking a long, drawn out drag that tickled his tastebuds. His senses numbed, a calm overtaking him. Smoke curled from his nostrils as he handed it back with a growly laugh, “Even if your god is wrong, I’m glad to call you friend.”

There was a moment of silence, uncertainty painted across the dwarf’s face. It passed when her eyes steeled, brow furrowed, “Why did ya have to go say something like that, ruining the whole thing. Don’t tell me ya are getting ready to die.”

“The day is certainly bleak.”

“If that’s the way you feel, then go down there right now!” She punched his side, “Start hacking and growling until ya don’t got an inch of life in ya left. Why waste your time talking and smoking with me?”

“I have more to do before taking my final path.” Asterion gave her back the pipe, thanking her with a swish of his tail. “Korde has blessed me my friend, given me a chance to atone. The least I can do to thank the offer is to die a death worthy of song.”

That bit her tongue, quelled her fire. Merlia heaved a great sight, arms falling to her side. “Asterion, how you figure your god would think of someone getting forced to do dishonored things?”

“That’s a strange question” He beheld Merlia’s expression with a critical eye, “Korde would see to if that the person refuse. There is no excuse.”

“And if the refusal meant death?”

“Then die.” Snorted Asterion “In defiance you’d be fighting, a noble death.”

She scoffed at his response, “What am I asking you for? You’re just as thick headed and full of blood as the rest of them! You’d go on about honor till you’re blue in the face!”

“Is Thor not about honor?”

“Oh, he is, but he goes on about living! You’re just being crazy is what ya are!”

He turned to head back down to the streets as Merlia looked lost, searching back towards the city. “Call for me if our enemy decide to push, I’ll be off to see Feku.”

“You better not be hammering into her skull we about to die!” Merlia snarled after him, “Just you wait and see, Arcturus and the dragon are thinking on a plan this very moment! Those lads may be daft, but they know what they be doing!”

 * * * * * * *

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