tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31067169999187559032024-03-05T08:13:45.263-08:00The Volunteer MaidenSometimes the maiden chooses the dragon. Her life. Her choice. Her escape. Life's more fun with a dragon.The Wilder Landshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09024638755887735262noreply@blogger.comBlogger11125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3106716999918755903.post-54501417164327567312014-11-23T13:59:00.002-08:002015-01-22T17:19:44.171-08:00The Volunteer Maiden is...The Volunteer Maiden: A fairy tale for adults.<br />
<br />
Elyra has spent her life toiling in servitude to a group of perverse noblemen. The moment she sees a chance to escape, she seizes it and never lets go. The only catch is, escape means pledging herself to a not-so-legendary dragon named Galvarys with a big mouth and a bigger ego.<br />
<br />
A fun, lighthearted and slightly twisted take on the old cliches of dragons and maidens. Humor, heart, and an unexpected friendship for the ages.<br />
<br />
A fantasy novel in progress by D. Wilder. <br />
<br />
As the novel is still in progress, it can also be considered a rough draft. But hey, it's free! There are ten chapters posted so far, with many more to come. Join the adventure, because life's more fun with a dragon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Wilder Landshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09024638755887735262noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3106716999918755903.post-35866640834050888492014-11-23T13:59:00.001-08:002014-11-23T13:59:38.375-08:00Chapter One<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Chapter
One</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
setting sun bathed the dragon’s lands in brilliant orange fire. Galvarys
relished the beautiful view as he soared above sun-painted pine forest towards
the heart of the sunset itself. The further the sun sank, the deeper its
radiance grew until it transmuted distant mountains and sprawling forests alike
into gold. The last streamers of sunlight also cast the dragon in dazzling
golden hues. Galvarys preferred his natural indigo scales, a majestic color
suitable for a great dragon such as himself. The black markings across his
wings and the ebony stripes across his limbs only added to his regal bearing.
He was a magnificent creature. No wonder the Five Villages all gave him such
lovely tributes.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Five Villages spread throughout Galvarys’ lands offered the dragon gifts in exchange
for peace, though that had not always been the case. For years they sent men to
take his life and his home, and for years Galvarys slew them to the last man.
These were his lands. These were the lands of dragons and all the dragon
slayers in the world could not wrest them from his claws. Yet as Galvarys aged,
he grew weary of warring with men and fighting for his life. Though they could
not slay him, the blood the dragon slayers drew and the pain they caused gave
him reason to reconsider his life.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the end, the dragon forged a truce with the villages. He allowed them to dwell
peacefully upon his lands in return for gifts and an end to people sticking
sharp things in him. Accepting tribute and truce was not as fun as wreaking
havoc and burning the countryside, but these days the dragon preferred to keep
his blood inside his body. Perhaps that meant he was getting old.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
truce brought about an amicable relationship. The Five Villages no longer sent
men to try and kill the dragon and he no longer burned things down. In fact, he
actively protected his land from bandit and beast alike. Galvarys could not
have them harassing the merchants. More merchants meant more coin flowing into
the village and that meant superior tributes to add to his collection.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Over
the years Galvarys had gathered quite the collection. If he could get his paws
upon it, he collected it. Though not everything he collected was especially
valuable, over the years he’d amassed an assortment of treasure any dragon
would be proud of. After all, a great collection of treasure brought with it
status and status brought power. Power brought memory, and Galvarys refused to
be forgotten. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Too
many other dragons were mourned only by the wind, their lost names a whispered
sorrow in the last breath of dying elders. With each year that passed more of
the world belonged to men. Yet these lands and the villages built upon them
belonged to Galvarys. It was here that Galvarys intended to build a legend so
grand he would never be forgotten like the others. The world would never forget
his name. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
the Magnificently Blue. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">…He’d
work on that. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon pushed the thoughts aside, wondering instead what manner of tribute
awaited him. Galvarys kept his forelegs tucked against his body, tapping a few
claw tips against his chest plates. The Five Villages he ruled each left him a
variety of gifts at different times of the year. Some months it was as simple
and satisfying as golden coins and jeweled chalices. Other months it may be
art, or even food and drink. Perhaps the sunset was a sign that today’s tribute
would be coin again. It had been some time since he’d gotten coin.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">For
a time, the dragon savored the simple joys of flight and the beauty of the
sun-bathed land. Warm summer winds tickled the vast, sensitive membranes of his
wings. The world’s breath washed across every scale, caressing and calming him.
The breeze held the warm scent of the late summertime forest, laced with a hint
of sweet rain carried from some distant place. To the west the ocean of emerald
forest rose and fell with the gentle, frozen undulations of the ancient earth.
Behind the dragon towered rugged mountains with jagged spires and claws of gray
stone ever scratching at the sky. Everything was cast in fading golden light as
the drowsy sun at last began to vanish beneath the forested horizon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">By
the time Galvarys descended, the sunset was replaced by a creeping purple gloam
blanketing the land. Darkness was fine with Galvarys as it better cloaked him
against the sky. Truce or not, when the dragon flew near human villages he
preferred to be silhouetted against stars rather than bright blue sky. He never
knew when some self-proclaimed hero with a bow might try and take potshots at
his underbelly. Better to fly at night or stay well out of reach.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon folded his black-marked wings, flicked his flight membranes across his
eyes and began to dive. As he picked up speed the wind that poured over him
grew from a gentle caress to an exhilarating rush that left him tingling
beneath his scales. The dragon’s powerful heart thundered in his chest as he
hurtled towards the earth. The echoing pulse of blood pounded in the minor
heart near his tail. There was a thrill in diving, just as there was a thrill
in hunting and in battle. Fold his wings too tightly or open them a moment too
late and Galvarys would end himself against the earth. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Not
that Galvarys was anything but determined to continue drawing breath as long as
possible. Dragons had long natural life spans and Galvarys had no intention of
letting anything shorten it. A short-lived dragon could not find his way into
legend. When Galvarys grew too old to defend himself from heroes and dragon slayers
he would take to the skies one last time. He’d savor his final flight, then
fold his wings and never again open them. One final dive seemed a fitting end
for a decrepit old dragon. It was better than a slow death, bleeding and broken,
in helpless agony as the humans swarmed around him. A better death than most
dragons received.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Before
the pine boughs drew too close, the dragon began to unfurl his wings. Pulling
out of a steep dive safely was a tricky prospect for a creature as heavy as a
dragon. Throw his wings open all at once and he’d tear every tendon and muscle
along his back. Galvarys eased his wings open bit by bit till it was safe to
fully extend them.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
leveled off just above the canopy. Then he beat his wings a few times,
ascending a little higher. The forest here was mostly pine, fir, and spruce.
The last thing he needed was for an errant wingbeat to catch the treetops and
fill his membranes with pine needles. Actually, the <i>last</i> thing the
dragon needed was to catch the top of a pine tree between the hind legs. Again.
A dragon could hardly find his way into legend if he went around injuring
himself upon trees. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Ahead
of the dragon loomed the barren, gray and green expanse Galvarys named Tribute
Hill. The hill was an oddity. It was a rocky, windswept rise in the midst of a
meadow beyond the forest’s edge. Lush emerald moss covered many of the granite
outcrops and boulders marking the tall hill. Galvarys made the humans deliver
their gifts there because it provided no shelter for anyone to wait in ambush.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
top of Tribute Hill was crowned with a lichen-covered boulder and a tall,
wooden pole which bore the dragon’s banner. The banner itself was a black flag
with the silhouette of a dragon’s horned head in striking blue. Silver eyes
inside the silhouette symbolized the dragon’s watchful gaze. More banners
marked each of The Five Villages and the roads linking them. The humans claimed
the banners warned a dragon protected the land. The dragon himself thought them
marks of ownership. As far as Galvarys was concerned, the banners meant, “Hands
off his treasure”. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Atop
the flat summit of the hill, the dragon’s banner snapped in the wind. In the
twilight the flag looked several shades of purple rather than black and blue.
The dragon circled the hill, looking for any signs of his tribute. Dismay
settled into his belly, cold and tight. The hill looked empty. There were no
chests of coins, no carts of cakes and glazed meats. Galvarys snarled. If
they’d forgotten his tribute day, something was going to get burned down. White
cloth fluttered near the banner pole. Had they brought him nothing more than
some kind of silk? When the cloth moved, the dragon realized it wrapped a
person hunkered down behind the boulder. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Anger
heated the dragon’s heart. Some thief sought to lay claim to his tribute. The
dragon flared the spines around his head, circling the hill again. Galvarys took
a breath and gave a tremendous roar. Stones rattled upon the hill. The dragon
squeezed the fire glands at the base of his jaws. Galvarys spat roiling flame
that illuminated the rocky hill with dancing red-orange light. Heat from his
fire washed over the dragon’s scales. The thief shrieked behind the boulder.
The dragon smirked, a few fangs glistening in the first slivers of moonlight.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
Thief, scream!” The dragon beat his wings, circling again. “You will return my
tribute at once! Then I shall…” Actually, he’d best not tell the thief of his
impending incineration. “…Let you live.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Just
where had the thief spirited his treasure away to, anyway? He’d better not be
in league with the gryphons that occasionally plagued the edges of his lands.
Thieving cat-birds might have already carried his tribute away.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Ham’s
a poor tribute!” The thief’s half-muffled voice oozed terror and sounded
distinctly female. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of
course ham is a poor tribute.” The dragon’s snarled words echoed beyond the
hill. “What are you babbling about?” Ham might be a miserable tribute, but he’d
be doubly angry if this thief girl had already eaten it. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon swept in over the hill to land. He touched down upon his hind feet
first, trotted to a stop and folded his wings. Moss-covered stones rolled and
slipped beneath Galvarys’ paws. Tiny mossy tendrils tickled his sensitive pads.
The granite boulder nearby was large enough for a human to completely vanish
behind. Emerald moss wreathed the bottom of it, while layers of yellow lichen
softened its pitted, gray surface. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Come
out immediately, Thief.” The dragon growled, anger tingling at the base of his
spiny frills. He lashed his tail. The curved black spines that tipped it caught
the earth and tossed broken gray rocks in the air. “Where is my tribute? Where
is my…ham?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
woman emerged from behind the rock, every movement cautious. Even in the darkness
her face looked as pale as a hatchling’s underbelly. Her scrawny body trembled.
Wind-knotted hair the color of dark honey framed cheeks wet with still-fresh
tears. She bore little more than a simple white dress that billowed around her
in the wind, outlining curves even a dragon could tell she was still growing
into. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Where’s
my ham?” The dragon asked again, flicking his tail. “Tell me what you’ve done
with my tribute, and I shall let you live.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl bit her lip. She took a tiny step towards the dragon, holding out
trembling hands. “There’s…no ham, Dragon…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So
you’ve eaten it already?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No.”
The girl wiped her eyes with the back of a hand. Light brown hair whipped about
her head. “I said ‘I am your tribute’. I had my face buried in my arms. I
thought…you were going…” The girl stepped back towards the boulder, tensed to
flee. “With your fire!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
padded towards her, hissing through his teeth. He flared his spines. “You’re my
tribute?” The dragon made a show of looking her up and down. Then he snorted at
her, hot breath washing across her face. “I was expecting gold, or treasure.
You are neither.” The dragon stretched his neck to sniff at her and hissed
again. “The <i>ham</i> would have made better tribute.” Then he blinked,
pulling his wedge-shaped head back. “Wait. Do they expect me to eat you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl gasped and fled behind her boulder. With an irritated grunt, Galvarys
followed her around the massive stone. She scrambled around it, staying on the
opposite side of the lichen-mottled boulder. Galvarys walked around the rock
again only for the girl to once more dart around the other side of it. Hissing,
the dragon curled himself around the boulder. His spined tail barred her path,
his teeth flashed in the other direction. The girl squeaked and flattened
herself against the rock. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Stop
that!” Galvarys snapped his jaws. The girl froze, unable even to draw breath.
Pleased as he was to terrify humans, the girl could hardly answer his questions
if she dropped dead of fright. “I’m not going to eat you, Girl.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon pulled himself away from the boulder. As soon as the way was clear the
girl dashed around to put it between herself and the dragon once more. “You…you
won’t?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Certainly
not.” The dragon tossed his head. “Humans are either too greasy, or too
stringy. You’d fall on the stringy side given you look as though you’re in
desperate need of sustenance yourself. I’m beginning to feel quite insulted to
have been sent only a malnourished meal.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“N-No,”
the girl said, her voice trembling as much as her body. “I’m not malnourished.
Wait. That’s not…what I mean.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
sighed, licking his nose. This was getting less anger-inducing and more
pathetic by the moment. He waved a paw in the air, black claws half unsheathed.
“Just tell me why they made you my tribute.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh!”
The girl caught on. She shifted a little, grasping at the snow-colored fabric
of her dress. She wrapped it around herself. “We…my village. We’re…well,
there’s no treasure for you this time. And…our crops are a little slow to come
in this year…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why
a girl?” The dragon snapped his jaws. “I need not hear The Tale of the Pathetic
Village.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“We
heard male dragons in other lands demand maidens!” The girl shrieked her
answer, vanishing behind the boulder again. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Maidens?”
Galvarys cocked his head in confusion. He lifted a forepaw, rubbing his head
behind one of his spiraled black horns. “Sounds like a slanderous rumor. Why
would a male dragon wish a maiden?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl peeked out at him, her eyes wide. “For a companion.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Companion?”
The indigo dragon lifted his spines, flaring his black-mottled wings. Galvarys
lowered his eye ridges. “Are you suggesting I suffer from some sort of
loneliness?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And
as servants!” The girl rose up a little further from behind the boulder. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
did not mind that she’d deflected his question because the idea of his own
servant was an interesting concept. Surely a servant was a status symbol befitting
an unforgettable legend. The dragon had little time to contemplate it before
the girl blurted something else out.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And
as L…Lov…toshareabedwith.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl’s words came out all jumbled together, but the dragon caught their meaning
just the same. “Share a bed?” He lifted his eye ridges, chuckling and perking
his frilled ears. “As in mate with you?” The dragon tossed his black-horned
head, drumming his claw tips against the stony ground. “I think not, Girl.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl slowly emerged from behind the lichen-shrouded boulder once again. “But, I
thought…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
manner of creature does your village take me for?” Galvarys glared at her,
narrowing eyes as silver as the moon itself. “I am not about to mount some
human girl.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So
you don’t like human girls?” The girl’s face scrunched. She seemed as confused
by the rejection as the dragon was by the contortions of her face.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
like them just fine when they’re offering me adoring tribute. But I’m not
interested in trying to mount them.” Galvarys tossed his head with a scoffing
snort. “I’d not even fit in a human female!” The dragon curled his neck into an
S. “And regardless of species, I have no interest in females still growing into
their own bodies. You don’t even look old enough to know what to do.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
was told dragons liked virgins,” the girl said, her voice a dismayed mutter. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Dragons
like no such thing!” The dragon hissed, flaring one of his wings. He snorted
and scratched his neck with a wing-tip talon. “Who told you that?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Well…”
The girl trailed off. “Our village…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not
your village, Girl.” The dragon sharpened his tone, baring his fangs. “Who told
<i>you</i> that dragons wanted virgins?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“The…The
mayor.” The girl kneaded her white dress in her hands, shuffling her shoes
against the stony ground. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Did
he.” Galvarys growled low. Each village presented tribute at different times,
so he knew just which mayor she meant. A pompous little pig named Varm. “I find
it disturbing your mayor makes such assumptions about dragons. If a female
dragon as young as you started rubbing herself against me, I would swat her on
her haunches and send her home to her family. And hope they teach her not to go
around lifting her tail for strange males.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl pulled her hands into her sleeves. “So, you don’t want a human maiden as
your tribute.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No,”
the dragon said. Galvarys stretched his neck till the fine scales around his
nostrils brushed the white fabric of her dress, inspecting her scent. The girl
smelt of sour terror masked by honeyed perfume and flowers. He pulled his head
back and snorted to clear the cloying aromas from his nose. “Besides that, you
reek of fear. That is not an attractive quality among dragons.” He licked his
blue nose a few times, trying to wash away the lingering scent. “But the other idea
you mentioned. What would a servant do for me?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Whatever
you wish, I am sure.” The girl swallowed hard, wringing her hands again even as
she kept them tucked in her white sleeves.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Whatever
he wished? Galvarys liked the sound of that. The idea set gears to turning in
the dragon’s mind. Beyond the simple satisfaction of having someone to order
around, Galvarys liked the idea of the villages knowing he had a servant. After
all, surely great rulers all around the world had an entire legion of servants
at their disposal. If kings and emperors had servants, then the dragon wanted
one for himself.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“These
servants…” The dragon waved a few half-unsheathed claws in the air. “Would a
grand king have maidens serving him? Are they a symbol of status among your
people?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl scrunched her nose, honey-brown hair billowing around her head. “I think
so. Our mayor has maidens. He’s from the capital, originally. Oh!” The girl
pursed her lips as she recalled something else. “When nobles from the capital
visit the mayor, they bring their servants. My father curses them when he
thinks no one’s listening.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Very
well.” If maiden servants were a status symbol among powerful humans, Galvarys
wanted his own. A servant would make an excellent addition to his collection.
“I shall accept tribute of a maiden servant. But I require an adult female,
with courage enough to serve a dragon. I don’t want her terror stinking up my
home.” Galvarys lifted a paw and pointed towards the horizon. “Go home, Girl.
Have another sent.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can’t!” The girl blurted out, balling up
her fists at her sides. She sniffed. “They’ll think I ran away from you! The
mayor will have my father banished, he said I had to…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Alright,
alright!” The dragon lifted a blue paw, holding his mottled gray paw pads out
towards her. He pinned his frilled indigo ears back against his head. “Your
terrified prattling is hurting my ears! I’ll take you home myself.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">At
least her home was not far. This month the tribute due was from the Village Of
Rings, the closest village to Tribute Hill. Like all The Five Villages, he’d
given it his own name. The humans called it something else, but Galvarys did
not care. The dragon could hardly be expected to keep track of the names they
gave their collection of sticks and rocks and muddy lanes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Without
any further warning Galvarys leapt into the air. In one smooth motion he
propelled himself skyward with his powerful hind legs, while snatching the girl
up in his forelegs. He hoisted her off her feet and tucked her against his
plated chest. The dragon beat his black-marked indigo wings, ascending. The
girl immediately gave a scream so shrill and loud it left his ears ringing.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Balls,
Girl!” The dragon snapped his jaws, swiveling his ears back and forth in a
futile attempt to ease the ringing. “If you scream any higher, my skull will
explode!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl’s only answer was a terrified whimper as the treetops whizzed by beneath
her feet. One of her simple leather shoes fell off, toppling through the
canopy. She clung to the dragon’s front legs, threatening the circulation to
his forepaws. The shaking of her body grew so intense that even the dragon
began to feel sorry for her. For a moment.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Stop
your whimpering.” The dragon glanced down at her. “I promise I won’t drop you.
You’re safe, alright?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl turned her frightened eyes up to the dragon. Galvarys could nearly see the
cloud of fear boiling inside them. “Nrrrhhmm!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Don’t
worry,” the dragon said, winging his way towards the village. “I haven’t killed
a human in years.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Aaaah!”
The girl wrapped her arms around him even tighter, kicking her legs in the air.
Her other shoe dropped away into the forest. She started panting again. Perhaps
that wasn’t the best thing for the dragon to tell her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Just
don’t piss yourself while I’m holding you,” the dragon said. He pinned his spines
back in distaste. Galvarys glanced down at her again. “I promise you, you’re
safe. Tonight you may sleep in your own hovel again.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was not long before the Village of Rings came into view on the horizon. Though
night’s dark blanket lay across the land, the dragon’s silver eyes were sharp
even in the darkness. Where surely humans saw only gloom and shadow in the
midst of night, the dragon saw a world cast in midnight blue and silver-gray.
The infinite arrow points of the stars alone gave him more than enough light to
see the world below. To a dragon’s eyes, the glow of distant lanterns and
torches cast an orange radiance that lit the horizon with wavering fire. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
called the place the Village of Rings because the entire town was designed around
a series of circular roads. Each road was lined with houses and taverns and
smithies and whatever else villages may have. At night the glow of street lamps
and lanterns spilled across the time-smoothed cobblestone of the main roads.
From the air, the city streets looked like larger and larger rings of
flickering molten gold. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon’s destination lay at the very center those rings. The largest of several
city plazas was there, and in the middle of that plaza was the residence of the
mayor himself. Whenever Galvarys paid the Village Of Rings a visit, he alighted
just outside the mayor’s home. In the years since he’d first struck the truce,
the crowds that came to see the dragon grew ever-larger. Whether adoring or
terrified, he enjoyed the attention. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">By
the time the dragon was circling the village, the girl had relaxed a little
bit. The dragon glanced down at her. “Cover your ears, Girl. And consider
yourself lucky I’m giving you a chance to save your hearing. More than you gave
me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl hesitated to release the dragon‘s forelegs from her grip. To assure her
she was safe, the dragon clutched her to the heavy blue plates that protected
his heart and lungs. As he shifted around her, Galvarys noticed she seemed even
lighter and more delicate than most humans. When she was convinced she wouldn’t
fall, she clapped her hands over her ears. The dragon took a deep breath and
roared his summons.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon’s roar echoed across the village. Galvarys smiled when someone screamed.
Guards ran to the central plaza to join those already assembling. Someone else
called for calm. One man even called for ale to placate the dragon’s anger. Galvarys
liked that idea. The terrified bleating of distant livestock made the dragon
hungry. The scene was basically the same anytime Galvarys came to a human
village. There was a little terror, a little chaos, and a whole lot of
kowtowing to his wishes.<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Just
the way the dragon liked it. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">As
Galvarys descended in a tight spiral, he surveyed his chosen landing spot. The mayor’s
house was a large wooden building with elegantly arched beams and pointed
eaves. Atop it fluttered the banners of the village and the dragon. The house
dwarfed most of the other simple wooden structures in the village. Galvarys
thought the building would make a delightful bonfire. An expansive garden
surrounded it with lines of bushes covered in purple flowers, and clusters of
red and yellow blossoms. The garden’s soft dirt made a perfect landing spot.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
back-winged a few times before he touched down on his hind paws. The dragon clutched
the girl to himself with one forepaw, dropping the other to the dirt. Then he
eased his cargo to the ground. The moment her bare feet touched earth she
bolted away from the dragon. Galvarys turned his wedge-shaped head, tracking
her before she vanished into the growing crowd. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’re
welcome,” the dragon said, snorting.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
turned his attention to the assembled group of guards. Men clad in padded
leather armor lined with bronze studs formed a wall in front of the crowd. They
all carried simple spears with sharp iron points, and swords strapped at their
waists. Some of the men also had axes across their backs or crossbows over a
shoulder. A few more guards with longbows had taken up position around the mayor’s
house in case the dragon became violent. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
yes,” Galvarys said, waving his paw. “You’re all very intimidating.” He
snorted, looking the guards over. “Where’s your mayor?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“He’s
on his way, dragon.” One of the braver guards spoke up. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Off
in some brothel, no doubt.” The dragon growled. For a few moments he drummed
unsheathed claw tips against the dirt. Someone in the crowd coughed. The dragon
flicked a claw through the stem of a flower and sent the red blossom tumbling
through the air. Galvarys turned his head, glaring at an archer crouched down in
a shadowy alcove. The dragon hated getting stuck with arrows even more than he
hated being kept waiting. “You put an arrow in me, and I’m going to see how far
I can throw you.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Ah,
Dragon!” Mayor Varm called out as he emerged through the guards. The mayor was
a round little man with a belly constantly straining the buttons of the
extravagant vests he wore. Today the vest was gold and the strained buttons
ivory. The man had a reddish brown moustache so bushy the dragon wondered how
he could push words past it, let alone food. “How blessed we are to be in your
magnificent presence once again.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
growled at the man, stalking towards him across the garden. Galvarys was not in
the mood for the mayor’s usual attempts at flattery. The man’s pandering tugged
at Galvarys’ spines, irritating him every time. Galvarys’ tail lashed as he
strode forward, tail-spines scything down bushes and flowers alike.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Shut
your hairy mouth, you stubby little worm.” In the torchlight the dragon saw the
color draining from the mayor’s face. “If you really felt blessed to have me protecting
your village you’d have given me a tribute more befitting of my greatness.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Mayor didn’t seem to know what the dragon meant. “Did you not get your tribute
today?” Varm stepped forward, holding his grubby hands out. “We sent a lovely
maiden to be your companion. Was she not pleasing to you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon glared down at the fat little man who called himself mayor. Galvarys
snarled and sent the mayor stumbling back a few steps towards his guards. None
of them made any move to get closer to the dragon. Galvarys followed the mayor
out of the garden and onto the cobblestone plaza. Bits of leaf and petal clung
to his tail, then fluttered through the air when he lashed it. Anger boiled the
dragon’s blood until he expected to see steam rising from his body. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Listen
here, you fat little pervert.” Galvarys flared his spiny, membranous frills to
their full extent all around his head. “Not only do I have no interest
whatsoever in some half-grown human virgin, but neither should anyone else.
That terrified wisp you sent me is far too young to be mounted. The fact you think
I’d want her makes me wonder just what it is you think dragons desire.” Galvarys
paced back and forth, leaving dirty paw prints on the plaza. The dragon’s
silver eyes nearly burned holes through the mayor’s golden vest straight to the
twisted heart that lay beneath. “For that matter, I wonder what sort of females
<i>you</i> pursue. Your village no doubt wonders the same.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“We
meant no insult, Great Dragon…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Shut
up.” The dragon ignored the mayor’s stammering as he searched the crowd. When
Galvarys spotted the young girl clinging to her father, he gestured at them
with a paw. “I do not expect to see that girl again unless she’s waving at me
from an adoring crowd. And if I find she’s been punished?” The dragon
unsheathed his black claws, scratching marks in the dirty cobblestone. “I shall
burn your house down.” Galvarys gazed over the silent crowd a moment. “With you
in it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I…but…I…”
The mayor could not find words. He opened and closed his mouth a few times.
Galvarys wondered if his ugly red-brown mustache was suffocating him.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
licked his nose, grinning. “However, as I am told maiden servants are a symbol
of high status, I have decided owning one is befitting of a legend such as
myself.” Then he narrowed his shining silver eyes, growling through his fangs.
“But not a damn virgin.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So…dragons…”
The mayor wrung his hands, gulping. “Prefer a woman with experience.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
grit his teeth. “If by woman you mean female dragon, then yes, we’d prefer one
who knows how to share pleasure. Not that it applies now.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So
perhaps a whore for your tribute?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What?”
Galvarys blinked, pulling his head back. He snarled. “Are you even listening?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
mayor stuttered. Galvarys decided he’d had enough of him for now. He strode
towards the man, lifted a paw and shoved him aside. The mayor yelped as he
toppled to the ground, rolling across the plaza. Ivory buttons popped and
bounced away. Scattered laughter broke the silence of the crowd, even as some
of the guards hefted their spears. Galvarys ignored them. Instead, he lifted
his head, gazing upon the crowd gathered beyond the line of armored men. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Since
your mayor can’t seem to think beyond mating, I shall address this to the rest
of you!” The dragon lifted his brassy voice so everyone in the crowd could hear
him. “I demand a servant, an adult female with the courage to serve a dragon.”
Galvarys paused to lick his nose. “Unless someone wishes to step forward, I
shall grant you time to fulfill my request. The girl told me the nobles possess
maiden servants of high status. That sounds quite fitting for a dragon, perhaps
you should look there. In the meantime, I expect a replacement gift by tomorrow
night. As you are out of treasure, I shall require a ham.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Nervous
laughter broke out amongst the crowd. Galvarys snorted. “It is not a joke. The
girl gave me a taste for it. In fact, I shall require a number of hams. Smoked,
and with that sweet glaze I like.” Galvarys rumbled, growing hungry. He licked
his muzzle again. “The same as you included the last time you brought me cooked
foods.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">While
the crowd murmured and turned eyes upon one of the local butchers, the dragon
turned his attention to the girl clinging to her father. Her father clung to
her just as tightly. Galvarys doubted the man parted with her willingly. Her
father looked up, staring back at the dragon for a moment as he stroked his
daughter’s honey-brown hair. If the dragon didn’t know better, he could have
sworn her old man was staring at him with some kind of deep gratitude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
stay safe, Girl. Alright?” The girl pulled her face from her father’s chest,
glanced at the dragon, and gave a single nod. “Good.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">With
that, Galvarys launched himself back into the air. The wind pouring off his
wings buffeted the people beneath him. Shredded flowers and leaves whirled in
the air. In the span of a few breaths, the dragon put the Village Of Rings
behind himself. He hadn’t gotten his tribute yet, but he’d done a good deed.
Even a dragon could do at least one good deed in their life, right? Right. That
meant he didn’t have to do any more. Good. He hated good deeds. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">While
he might not have gotten his tribute, he would soon have his own servant. That
sounded fun. Why hadn’t he thought to demand a servant before? As he winged his
way home, the dragon wondered what sort of woman they’d send. What manner of
human female was both courageous and not a virgin? Perhaps some warrior maiden
who slew monsters and then bedded men in celebration. No, he didn’t like the
sound of that. Especially not the part about slaying monsters. Whoever she was,
she’d be a mystery until Galvarys set eyes upon her. That was alright, being
mysterious would make his new servant more intriguing. At least, he hoped she’d
be intriguing. He didn’t want to be burdened with a boring servant. </span></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Damn.
He should have added intriguing to his list of demands. </span></div>
The Wilder Landshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09024638755887735262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3106716999918755903.post-33498904400319571562014-11-23T13:59:00.000-08:002014-11-23T13:59:14.687-08:00Chapter Two<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">----------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Chapter
Two</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">----------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
stood in the cramped servant corridor, her mouth frozen around a bite of stolen
food. For long moments she simply stood there, scarcely able to believe the
words that filtered through that crack in the wall. Usually the conversations
of nobility held little interest for her, aside from discerning how best to
avoid being dragged unwillingly into their beds again. Yet tonight their
conversation gave her hope. Tonight they spoke of a way out of this wretched
place.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tonight
the nobles spoke of a dragon. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
first heard mention of the dragon as she slunk through one of many cramped,
narrow servant corridors that wound through unknown recesses of the Hall Of
Nobility. They ran between walls, connecting all the major rooms while
bypassing the public hallways. Hidden doors and recessed alcoves allowed the
servants a chance to enter a room, do their job, and then vanish before their
presence offended the nobility. The servant corridors themselves were little
more than bare stone, lit by the occasional lamp or candle. In the summer they
were stifling and in the winter they were freezing. They were unpleasant, damp
and stinking of mold. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Yet
to Elyra they were also an escape and a rebellion. The nobles couldn’t strike
her across the face or toss her into their beds when they could not find her.
They had no way to know she was the one stealing food when all the evidence
vanished into dank hallways they’d never set foot in. They couldn’t see her
grinning through the crack in the wall when the herbs she slipped into their
soup sent them rushing for the latrine. Most of them didn’t even realize how
easy it was for their own servants to spy on them.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Dust
motes danced in a stream of warm light pouring into the cold hallway from a
crack in the wall. Elyra slunk towards the crack, swallowing her mouthful of
food. The rest of the stolen handful of roasted lamb was all but forgotten. She
pressed her gray eyes against the hole in the wall, trying to get a look into
the room that lay beyond.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
cozy room was lined with burled walnut bookshelves filled with books Elyra knew
the nobles would never actually bother reading. As inbred as some of the nobles
probably were, she wasn’t convinced they even knew how to read in the first
place. Beautiful tapestries of colorful landscapes brought back from some other
conquered land hung between the shelves. A hearth built of interlocking blocks
of white and black stone held a warm fire at the far end of the room. Two men
sat around a circular, ebony table. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
recognized Atrius immediately. She knew the heavyset man’s bald pate and
porcine features even when she was too far away to catch wind of his stink. The
oversized noble’s tacky clothing was also a dead giveaway. His garish, golden
overcoat spoke of a man who only bothered to dress himself to show everyone
just how wealthy he really was. The man sitting across from him was as wiry as
Atrius was bulbous. His ridiculous ruffled blue shirt and bulging eyes made him
look like a scrawny pigeon ruffling up his feathers. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’m
telling you, it’s the village’s fault.” The pigeon man leaned back in his
high-backed, blue-cushioned chair. Seemed even he was trying to stay clear of
Atrius’ stench. It baffled Elyra how the more money the nobles had, the less
they bothered to bathe themselves. “Damn dragon hadn’t bothered our interests
in ages till they went and mucked it up.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Atrius
folded his stubby arms over his chest, his golden overcoat straining at the
seams. “All because they wanted to save a few coins, eh?” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Seems
that way.” The skinny man picked up a snifter off the table, swirling his
liquor in it. “Tried to send him some worthless girl. Damn beast didn’t want
her after she pissed herself.”</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I wouldn’t
want a girl who pisses herself, either.” Atrius chuckled. He picked up his
goblet, sipped at his wine. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That’s
not the point,” said the pigeon man. He ran a hand over the ruffles of his
shirt, scowling. “My association has a good thing going with those trade
corridors, and your villages are mucking it up. They didn’t even have to give
the dragon much. Dumb beast was as happy with food and the local sludge they
call wine as he was with gold. Hell, half the so-called treasure they dumped on
that hill over the years is worthless! Now he’s got it in his head he deserves
himself a maiden, and he’s threatening to close the roads until he’s given one
he considers agreeable.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why
don’t you just hire some men to slay the damn thing?” Atrius sipped his wine,
then set his goblet down. “Some ugly dragon’s head would look good on your
wall.” He glanced up at his shelves, grinning. “Or mine.” </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
chewed upon the rest of her stolen lamb while she listened. Trust a noble to
decide if they didn’t like the way things were going they could just throw
money at someone else to fix the problem. Besides, weren’t dragons always
issuing demands for maidens and treasure? Not that she’d ever seen one. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It’s
not that easy,” replied Pigeon Man. He swirled his drink again. His scowl only
made his eyes bulge further. Elyra half expected them to topple out of his head
and into his drink. “Our predecessors tried to slay the monster for years and
never managed it. Besides, if the dragon dies, then who’s going to watch over our
trade shipments? I’m telling you, we had the stupid thing wrapped around our
fingers. Slip him a few coins, and he keeps the bandits and the other filthy
monsters away from the roads we send our merchants on. He costs us less on a
yearly basis than hiring actual guards.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
still don’t see how this is my problem.” Atrius huffed to himself, gazing
around the room as if bored by the entire conversation. “They’re your villages
and your little…association, after all.”</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Don’t
get smart with me, Atrius.” The skinny man set his drink down on the table,
leaning forward. Something dangerous gleamed in his dark, bulging eyes. “It’s
your problem because if you don’t solve it, my association shall go directly to
the Royalty and tell them how badly your people are botching everything out
here.”</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Fine,
fine,” Atrius snapped, folding his arms. Elyra knew that anger. Given the
chance, he’d take it out on some poor servant. “So he wants a maiden, does he?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.”
The pigeon man ran his hand over the blue ruffles of his shirt again. “A maiden
servant of high status, as I was told. And not a virgin, either.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Atrius
quirked a brow, smirking. “Specified that, did he?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Your
idiot mayor sent him a virgin, and the dragon took it as an insult.” The slender
man waved his hand. “It’s what started this whole mess.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Sounds
like even a dragon knows a virgin’s no good at pleasing a man.” Atrius drummed
his fingers against his goblet. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“From
what I’ve heard, the dragon claims he isn’t interested in her services of
pleasure.” The smaller man picked up his drink again, sipping it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“If
that was true, he wouldn’t care if she was a virgin or not.” Atrius grunted,
rolling his eyes. “No matter. I’ll have someone selected. We have plenty of
useless servant wenches around here. One of those ought to placate the horny
old beast.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That
was the idea.” Pigeon Man snorted, slowly leaning back into his chair. He
smirked. “They’d certainly not be a virgin. The dragon also demanded a woman of
courage. Have you got a courageous wench lying around?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Atrius
swished his drink. “They’re servant wenches. They all do whatever they’re told.
They’ll act brave if I order it. More importantly, no one will miss them when
the dragon gets bored and devours them.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
grit her teeth, balling up her fists. How she hated that man and his ilk. They
treated her and everyone like her as less than human. Some slave barely even
worth being looked upon, and only worthy of being acknowledged when they were
being punished and belittled, or used like some whore because no decent woman
would have anything to do with the filthy nobles. The next time that
foul-smelling man made her touch him, it would take all she had not to twist it
right off. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Whoever
they sent would be better off being eaten by the dragon than spending another
day here.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In
that moment, Elyra saw her way out. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">One
way or another, the nobles would send a woman to the dragon even if they had to
force her. Elyra knew some of the servant wenches would fight, others would
simply resign themselves with a sigh and give in to their fate. Some would beg
and plead not to be fed to the monster. Most of the women stuck serving in this
place had long since given in already. They had come to accept the abuse, the
humiliation, the fact that there was no better life to be had for women like
them.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">They
were punished for the crimes of family, the sins of ancestors, or their own
youthful indiscretions. Elyra brushed her fingers over the branded mark on her
cheek, as damning as the fiery red hair she’d inherited from her mother. The
nobles’ servant wenches were all marked and servitude was a lifelong
punishment. For most, it was just less painful to stop striving for something
better. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Yet
where others had given up hope, Eyra sunk her nails in and clung to it for dear
life. Where others bowed their heads and whispered their acquiescence to any
demand, Elyra bit back insults only because they would cost her life. Where the
other marked servants stood silently and let the nobles put their hands all
over them, Elyra fought the urge to lift their feet from the floor with her
knee. Elyra always knew that one day, her rebelliousness and her refusal to let
hope bleed from her heart would get her killed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Now
was as good a time as any. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">If
she was to die, let her die breathing free air. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In
that moment Elyra decided to cast aside a life spent as a noble’s puppet. It
was time to seize control of her own life. The dragon wanted a servant, and she
was going to give him one. Elyra would volunteer to be the dragon’s maiden.
Though it may lead to her death, a freely chosen demise at the claws of a
dragon was better than even one more humiliating day as some noble’s plaything.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Resolute
and as sure of herself as she’d ever been, Elyra turned and made her way
through the hidden halls and back to the servant’s quarters. As she walked the
cramped corridors, she turned the idea over in her mind as though it were some
physical thing to be manipulated. The dragon wanted an experienced woman, and
the nobles hadn’t let her become anything but. The beast wanted a woman with
courage, and what was more courageous than volunteering to the dragon’s
service? Perhaps he’d even be impressed. Might the dragon even grow to respect
her? Respect from a dragon was perhaps too much to hope for. Yet it was hope
that kept Elyra’s heart beating. So she would hope for the creature’s respect. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
was happy enough just to make her own choice, to guide her own life. Whatever
the dragon wanted of her, whatever he made her do, surely it could not be worse
than what she endured here. Even if the beast did have perversity in mind, what
difference did that make? She was already forced to tend the needs of an entire
Hall filled with wicked creatures in the guise of men. Having to tend just one
would be an improvement all by itself. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">However
wicked the dragon may be it could not be any worse than the nobles who branded
Elyra in her youth. Perhaps if she satisfied the dragon properly, she could
even talk the beast into flying her back here so she could watch him burn the
Hall Of Nobility down. Preferably with the nobles still in it. Of course she’d
have to find a way to let all the servants out first, but so long as she was
dreaming, why not dream big? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Before
Elyra reached the servant’s quarters, she wondered if she should tell anyone
her idea. Should she tell them goodbye? Perhaps she should wait until she’d
made it official. Elyra was certain they’d accept her as volunteer. It wasn’t
as though any of the other servants were likely to offer themselves instead. Most
of them would be terrified by the idea of serving a dragon, and Elyra herself
was not without a bit of a fear. Yet her desire to escape this prison of
humiliation was far greater than any amount of fear. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This
was a chance she had to take. If she did not volunteer, every single time some
wretched noble pushed her down upon her knees, she would wonder what might have
been. Eventually she’d be put to death for mangling some noble with her teeth.
She wished she could say such a death would make her a hero to the other
servant wenches, but most of them had given in so deeply to their humiliating
lives they’d only think her a fool. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Better
they think her a fool for serving a dragon, then. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A
single small wooden door led into her section of the servant’s quarters. It was
marked only with a single carving, a sort of stylized, spiraling star. The same
symbol had marked her right cheek for years. In years long past, the mark
symbolized ownership among Elyra’s own people. The nobles had taken and
bastardized that mark, used it for their servants. It marked the doors to their
quarters, to their hallways, and for those like Elyra, it marked their flesh. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
opened the door and entered into the quarters shared by a dozen women. The room
was long and rectangular, with twelve beds all evenly spaced along one wall.
Each bed marked another woman’s chambers, such as they were. A simple, thick
curtain drawn between each bed provided all the privacy the servant wenches
had. Each woman had a small dresser for clothes, a little table and a chair,
and whatever personal effects they might have. And that was it. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">At
the end of the room were a few small windows that let in a bit of light but
provided view of little more than soot-caked chimneys and smoke from cooking
fires in the kitchens below. The room smelled of a mixture of perfumes, stale
food, and the clinging unpleasantness of too many people crammed into too small
a space. Hints of spicy incense used to cover the smells were just beginning to
tint the air for the evening.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An attached room had a large bookshelf with a
few books whose pages scarcely clung to their threadbare covers. There were
several couches in various states of disrepair. One of them spilled a little
more of its padded entrails onto the floor by the day. Another room bore a
latrine, along with six public bathing tubs, pumps to draw water from a deep
well, and a few small iron furnaces to heat that water.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s
bed was near the far end of the room. Elyra was mostly ignored by the other
women in the room as she padded by them. She did not dislike the others but
most were so resigned to their hollow lives that she simply could not connect
with them. Talking to them was like talking to an empty shell. Some of them
tried to stay away from Elyra, fearful her little rebellions would somehow get
the rest of them punished. Elyra pitied them the emptiness she saw in their
eyes. Without hope, they had nothing, and they drifted through their
humiliating lives as shadows seeking only to avoid pain before the end. Even if
Elyra offered them a chance to take her place in volunteering for the dragon,
she knew they’d never take it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
greeted those few she might consider a friend. One woman sat upon her bed,
reading an old book Elyra knew she’d read at least a half dozen times before.
She glanced up from her book to give Elyra a polite wave. Elyra smiled and
inclined her head. Another woman squeezed up against a man upon her narrow bed.
They smiled and whispered to one another, and they both waved at Elyra. Elyra
smiled and waved back. Of all the other servant wenches, Elyra liked Jadira the
best.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just like Elyra, Jadira never quite gave up
hope. Better still, Jadira somehow found love in this terrible place when she
met a conscript named Dahn. Dahn bore the same spiral-star brand on his cheek
as the women did. Those with the brand were little more than slaves forced to
do any task the nobles set them to. For the women that meant servant’s duties
and whores for the nobles. The men among the punished were conscripted to serve
as soldiers, or guards. They rarely had time to themselves, so Jadira and her
conscript lover made the most of every little moment they shared. Most men would
not be with a woman used as a noble’s whore, but Dahn did not care. Dahn loved
Jadira just the same, and since he bore a mark himself, he understood. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
envied their love more than she cared to admit.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
reached her small, narrow bed and sat down upon the edge of it. Her woolen
blanket was dyed dark green, and bore more patches than original material. It
was scratchy against bare skin, but at least it was warm. Both pillow and
mattress were filled with straw that poked her from time to time when she
shifted on the bed. Still, it gave her somewhere to collapse at night.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It
made her wonder, though. Where would she sleep when she served the dragon? The
beast probably lived in a cave, yet she doubted he had himself a bed. Not that
she’d want to sleep next to him. Maybe the dragon just slept on the stone floor
or on a pile of gold. Perhaps she should bring a bedroll or something. But
where would she get a bedroll? She didn’t even have the coin to buy so simple a
thing.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
wrung her hands in an attempt to ward off the creeping chill that was
overtaking her fingers. Her toes were not faring much better. The more thought
she put into this, the more her heart quickened. Her belly twisted. Was she
really going to do this? Yes. She grit her teeth. Yes. She was. She had to get
out of this place. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
kicked off the simple rope sandals she wore, then stripped down to her underthings.
She hung her gray and cream servant’s dress upon a hook on the wall, then
crawled beneath her blankets. It was not that late, but her duties were done,
and she had little else to do. She was safe from the nobles so long as she
remained where she was. She could read a book, but she’d read them all many
times. Her hoard of stolen art supplies was exhausted. She could go and chat
with Jadira and Dahn, but she did not want to intrude. Elyra thought she may as
well get comfortable and wait for morning.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
lay her head back against the pillow, staring up at the barren gray stone
walls. A few simple lamps hung from wrought iron hooks around the room. Though
Elyra hadn’t yet lit her own lamp for the night, a few others had. Elyra’s section
of wall was decorated with images she’d made herself. Admittedly Elyra was not
much of an artist, but it was not about the skill, it was about the expression.
Working on an image helped her forget where she was for a few moments, forget
about the life she lived. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Whenever
she had the chance she stole a piece of parchment, or stick of charcoal.
Sometimes she got a quill and ink, other times she got a few tiny pots of paint
and a brush. She used whatever she could get her hands on to create simple
images from her mind. She tried to paint herself, and though it came out
looking like a child’s drawing, she still liked it. An attempt at a portrait of
her mother came out no better artistically yet held even greater value to
Elyra. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">One
of her favorites was an ink drawing she’d done of some distant mountains.
Though they could be glimpsed upon the horizon from the city, Elyra saw them up
close once in her youth. One of her earliest memories was of those mountains.
Though her drawing was little more than angled lines and simple shading, she
decided to take it with her when she went to see the dragon. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
smiled to herself, wondering if the dragon lived in the mountains. That would
be nice. Elyra could grow to enjoy serving some regal beast in his mountain
lair. She might still be a servant, but it would be by her own choice. And if
servitude was in her destiny, why not spend her days somewhere beautiful?
Perhaps the creature would even take her flying. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Mmmm,”
Elyra murmured aloud. How she would love to fly upon a dragon. It seemed like
just the sort of terror she would grow to relish. “Yes. Take me flying,
Dragon.” She waved her hand in the air a little, imitating the sort of pompous
gestures the nobles always made when bossing someone around. “You wanted a girl
with courage so take me as high as you dare!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Who
are you talking to, Elyra?” Jadira called out from a few beds down. Elyra heard
her and her lover sharing a giggle. “Did you say something about a dragon?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
froze in embarrassment. “Yes.” Her voice came out as little more than a squeak
as scarlet heat rose across her face. “I’m just…imagining…” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Have
you been stealing wine again?” This time it was the man who spoke up, laughing.
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
smiled. “You know if I had, I’d share it.” Then she smirked to herself, her
hands behind her head. “Not with you, Dahn, but with Jadira and the other
girls. You could have some of Jadira’s, though.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh
no,” Jadira said, giggling. “He could get his own. But I don‘t see what that
has to do with a dragon.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s
smile turned wicked. “I was just imagining a dragon had come to burn this place
down. I was going to help him! Then I was going to have him take me flying for
a while.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Jadira
laughed and gave a little sigh. “You’re an odd girl, Elyra. But I like it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank
you,” Elyra murmured. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
spent the rest of the evening snuggled beneath her blankets, staring at the
simple pictures she’d adorned her wall with. As the night deepened, worry crept
into her thoughts. She was not so foolish as to think this could not go wrong.
What if this dragon was a beast of great cruelty? What if he only wanted a
woman to ravish her? Each time fear took hold of her heart, she wrenched herself
free of its cold claws. At worst it would still be better to serve one cruel
dragon than twelve cruel men.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
kept her mind from tumbling into fearful holes by considering the dragon
himself. How big a creature was he? What color might he be? Did he speak with a
posh accent or did he snarl his words like an angry beast? How fast could he
fly? Would he let her ride upon him? Was his back covered in spines? She’d
never seen a dragon. As far as she knew, such creatures were not exactly
common.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thinking
about the dragon eased her fears and helped the hours pass. One by one lamps
were blown out, and darkness brought with it cooler air. After so many years in
the same room, Elyra knew each woman by the way she slumbered. Some snored,
some breathed heavily while others were so silent Elyra half-expected them to
never wake. Elyra herself found sleep unreachable. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Long
before dawn’s fire burned through the blanket of night, Elyra was already
scrubbing herself in a simple wooden tub she’d filled with hot water and soapy
froth. The scent of the soap permeated the steam that rose from the tub. At
least there was always enough soap to go around. Despite the nobles’ apparent
aversion to bathing, they expected their servants to look and smell clean and
fresh. That at least was one demand Elyra was happy to comply with. She just
wished they’d follow that command themselves. Most of those men were filthy.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Still,
filth could be washed away. Elyra was at least glad she’d never had to fear
catching a disease from them. The wenches were often subjected to humiliating
trips to the healers to ensure they had nothing they could pass on to the
nobles. The nobles in turn kept to the servant wenches to fulfill whatever
desires their own wives might not be inclined to fulfill. Unlike street whores,
the wenches were free and clean. They were also on a regimen of herbs to help
prevent any unwanted childbirth. Rumors were that after a time those herbs
rendered a woman completely barren. Elyra preferred not to think about that.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thankfully
she wouldn’t have to take those damn herbs anymore no matter what the dragon
may require of her. A dragon couldn’t get her pregnant. Could he? She scrunched
her nose as she worked a tattered cloth over her skin. She doubted he was even
small enough to…well…Instead, he’d probably just demand that she use her…Elyra
snorted. She’d worry about that later. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When
she was clean, she pulled the plug on the tub and stepped out. She fetched
herself a clean towel, wrung out her shoulder-length red hair, and then wrapped
the towel around her body. Elyra went to her dresser and pulled out a fresh
cotton dress. It was cream and gray like all the others. Unlike her other
outfits, this one was in a modest cut that hid her curves. It was the most
formal looking thing she’d been given. Which was just what she wanted for the
meeting she was about to have with the Head Mistress of Servants. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">After
she was dry and dressed, Elyra brushed her hair. She’d had the brush so long
she’d worn little marks in the wooden handle with her fingers. Elyra set the
brush down and stepped into her shoes. Aside from her rope sandals she had only
a formal pair of black leather shoes for the occasions where she had to serve
food or drink to groups of wealthy visiting merchants. The shoes hurt her feet,
but she would not have to wear them much longer. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
settled on her bed as the first purple glimmer of pre-dawn light began to
bruise the eastern sky. Any moment now another servant would knock upon the door
to the wake the girls and bring them their morning porridge. They’d have a
short time to eat and get bathed, and then it would be off to start their
morning duties. Elyra had no intention of waiting for anyone to ask her why she
was dressed so early. She knew the Servant Mistress would be in her office by
dawn, and Elyra meant to be there waiting. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When
the knock came, Elyra was at the door before anyone else was even out of bed.
She opened it and smiled at the boy holding a tray nearly as large as he was.
The boy bore reddish hair but no mark. That made him luckier than most in this
place. Elyra tussled the boy’s hair and let him in. On his tray was an immense
tub of bland but filling porridge and lots of empty bowls stacked atop one
another. He set the tray down on an empty table, and then set about lighting
some of the lamps around the room. Elyra watched him go from bed to bed, gently
waking the women.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
considered eating breakfast, but as knotted as her stomach was it did not seem
wise. She could always steal herself something to eat later. While the other
women were busy waking, Elyra slipped out into the hallway. Her quarters were
in a part of the castle used by the servants, though at least the main hall was
more accommodating than the servant corridors. Scuffed wooden paneling covered
the walls, and the floor bore faded carpet long since flattened beneath
countless boots.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
strode down the corridor and took the first door into the hidden pathways that
snaked through the Hall Of Nobility. Despite the official title of the place,
Elyra always thought it more of a castle than a hall. Admittedly she was not familiar
with the differences between castles, halls, palaces and so forth. The building
was far older than the nobles who now claimed it as their home. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
hurried through the narrow servant hallways. She ducked under pipes and beams,
twisted to push her way through tight spaces, stepped over rises in the floor.
After spending so many years navigating the cramped and confusing corridors she
could just about run through them blind by now. She was careful not to get dirt
upon her dress. It wouldn’t do to sit before the Head Mistress of Servants with
smudged clothing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">By
the time the first sliver of golden fire cast its glow across the horizon,
Elyra sat in a stiff, uncomfortable chair in a small antechamber that served as
waiting room. She was the first one there, arriving even before the Head
Mistress. Elyra squirmed as she waited. Fear returned to gnaw at her belly,
nausea replaced her usual morning hunger. She drummed her nails against the
barren pine armrests of the chair. Every moment passed as an hour, every beat
of her heart seemed a solitary moment surrounded by silence. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
jerked upright when she heard the nearby door unlock. She tugged out the sides
of her skirt and turned her face to the floor, a gesture that was half curtsy
and half bow. She held it as Behka, Head Mistress of Servants, entered the
antechamber. With her face down she saw only the woman’s shoes, black leather
and bold buckles. Formal, as always. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh.
Hello, Elyra,” the Head Mistress said. Her tone was sharp but not
disrespectful. “Have you seen my secretary?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No,
Ma’am,” Elyra replied without straightening up from her curtsying bow. “I was
the first to arrive here.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
see.” Elyra heard a tapping sound. She did not have to look up to know the Head
Mistress was drumming the fingers of one hand against the palm of the other.
“You must have something you wish to discuss with me, so come along then.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Once
Head Mistress Behka turned back to her office, Elyra straightened up and
followed her. Of all the people Elyra served, the Head Mistress was the only
one Elyra wouldn’t like to punch in the teeth with an armored gauntlet. Though
the older woman was a stickler for traditions, she’d always treated Elyra and
the other servants as fairly and respectfully as her position allowed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
hurried into the Head Mistress’ office. She settled into the single chair in
front of her desk, and bowed her head. Elyra listened to the woman shuffling
papers and rattling a quill in an inkwell until she was addressed again. Though
the woman treated Elyra respectfully, she did stick to decorum. And decorum
stated a servant could not speak to their betters until addressed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
did you wish to discuss, Elyra?” The Head Mistress glanced up a moment,
scribbling something onto parchment. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This
was it. The moment she had been anticipating since she’d first heard of the
dragon. This was her chance. This was her opportunity to escape this terrible
place, to seize her own life and guide it in a direction of her choosing. Her
icy hands trembled. Her breath froze in her lungs. She curled cold toes inside
her shoes. Just do it. Just say it. Elyra took a deep breath and forced strength
into her voice. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Volunteer!”
Damn. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What?”
The Head Mistress gave her an odd look. The older woman scratched at the
graying hair tied in a bun atop her head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
volunteer!” Elyra blurted out. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Behka
quirked a thin brow, then idly adjusted the formal blue and black dress she
wore. “You volunteer?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s
mouth went dry. She licked her lips and scraped her tongue over her teeth to
try and moisten it. Her voice came out raspy, but at least she spat out a few
more words. “Yes. I’ve come here to volunteer.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Head Mistress sighed, easing back into her gray-cushioned chair. A smile tugged
at the older woman’s lips. She tapped the tip of her quill against the paper
she was writing on, leaving little black dots. “For what?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
blinked. Oh. Right. This was all going wrong. Her fear was getting the best of
her. She balled up her hands into fists and grit her teeth. As she tried to
find the words again, she glanced around the room. The Head Mistress’ mahogany
desk was covered with organized stacks of paper and folders, books and ledgers.
A few stone inkwells were organized in one corner, feathered quills sticking
from one of them. Lamps hung from curved brass poles. The walls were decorated
with beautiful tapestries. Directly behind the Head Mistress was a tapestry
covered with mountains at sunrise. Layers of purple and gold depicted the
rising sun banishing the nighttime gloom. It was a lovely image, and Elyra
could almost feel the silence and serenity of it creeping into her soul. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Lovely,
isn’t it?” The Head Mistress glanced back at the tapestry, smiling. “Didn’t you
once tell me you wanted to see the mountains?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,”
Elyra said, her voice little more than a murmur. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
older woman smiled, turning her attention back to her morning paperwork. She
signed a few papers, then began to write a letter. “Take your time. I’m not
going anywhere.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
smiled back at the older woman. Sometimes, a kindness as simple as a moment of
patience was all it took to help set her mind at ease. Elyra received her
duties from the woman for many years now, and she’d always showed more patience
and respect than Elyra ever expected. There was a predictability to the Head
Mistress that was almost as comforting as her moments of patience. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Every
day she wore a dark colored dress with long sleeves that showed not a hint of
skin below the neck or above her ankles. Her formal shoes always seemed new. A
simple bronze locket hung around her neck. Her hair had grayed over the years
but the bun tied atop her head never changed. Her face was dusted with a bit of
powder but she made no attempt to hide the lines and spots of age. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
might have thought her a spinster if not for some of the wilder rumors that
circulated amongst the servants about her younger days. They were probably
false yet Elyra thought the Head Mistress anything but a prude. She simply
respected herself too much to show off her body to anyone but those she cared
for. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A
shame Elyra wasn’t given the same chance. Not that she blamed the Head Mistress
for what the nobles did to the servant wenches. There were some things Elyra
knew the Head Mistress simply couldn’t change even if she cared to. Exposing
the noble’s habits with the wenches would just get her thrown in some dungeon. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
stared at the tapestry behind the Head Mistress. In her mind she saw that
golden light growing, bathing the entire mountain range in its brilliance. How
beautiful the sunrise must be as it broke across the mountains. Elyra hoped
she’d get to watch the sun rise above the rugged peaks at least once before the
dragon decided to eat her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon. That was why she was here. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Without
taking her eyes from the mountains of the tapestry, Elyra at last put words to
her new life. “I have come to volunteer to be the dragon’s maiden.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
sudden strength in her own voice surprised her. The scratching of the Head
Mistress’ quill against parchment came to an immediate stop. The older woman
slowly turned her penetrating brown eyes up to Elyra. For a moment she simply
stared at her in disbelief. Then she set her quill down, and leaned across the
desk towards Elyra. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
what, Elyra?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
have come to volunteer to be the dragon’s maiden.” When Elyra repeated herself,
her voice held the same fire she imagined flickering through the dragon’s
teeth. “Ma’am, surely by now you have heard that a dragon has made a request
for a maiden, and that it has fallen upon the nobility to provide that for
him.” Elyra saw no reason not to put things bluntly. “It’s come to my attention
that the dragon requires a woman of courage and experience. We all have the
experience, Ma’am, but I think you would agree I am the most courageous of us
all.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Come
to your attention?” The Head Mistress sharpened her tone. A flick of her eyes
told Elyra she already had documents on the matter. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
ignored her implication. “I can see no more courageous a maiden than one who
volunteers herself for the dragon’s service.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Behka
drummed her fingers against the papers she’d glanced at. Her words were a
threatening knife aimed at Elyra’s heart. “You’re treading dangerous ice Elyra,
and it grows thinner with every step.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
deflected the blade away. “I often do. I think the dragon will like that about
me.” The Head Mistress stared at her, unblinking. Elyra refused to look away. She
knew the woman well enough to press her luck. “The dragon has already been
insulted once when they offered him some frightened virgin.” The Mistress’
cheek twitched, her eyes narrowed slightly. Good. Elyra wanted her knowledge to
surprise the older woman. The longer this went in her favor, the better she
kept control of her fear. “Do you think it wise to insult the beast again by
sending someone quakes at his very voice? I think he would be more pleased with
someone brave enough to volunteer.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Head Mistress finally sighed, sinking back into her chair. “You’ve found a way
out, haven’t you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This
time it was Elyra’s turn to be surprised. She hadn’t expected the older woman
to see right through her so easily. She gaped a moment, and then tried to
collect herself. “I simply wish to-”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
always knew you’d leave us on your own terms, Elyra.” Behka smiled to herself,
gazing around her office. She waved an age-spotted hand. “Though to be honest,
I thought it would be via execution after you hurled Atrius out the highest
window you could find.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Hearing
that from Head Mistress Behka was such an absurd moment that Elyra actually
laughed. She shook her head, trying to fight back her laughter. “I’d never do
such a thing, Head Mistress.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“We
both know they were never going to break you, Elyra.” Behka’s voice softened,
her smile grew warmer. “There was always something in your eyes, just waiting
to be unleashed. Waiting for that day you were ready to go out on your own
terms. Has that day come, Elyra?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I…I
don’t know,” Elyra admitted. She took a deep breath, held it till her lungs
burned. When she could hold it no more, she heaved a great sigh. “I don’t think
he’d demand someone courageous just to kill them.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Unless
you anger him. Or insult him. Or he grows tired of you.” The Head Mistress
ticked off a few fingers. “Or he simply likes to watch brave things die. He is
a dragon, after all.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Then
so be it!” Elyra spat, sitting up straighter. “If the beast kills me then at
least I took a chance! At least it was my choice that led me there, at least I
had a hand in my own fate!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Indeed,”
Behka said, murmuring to herself. She pulled a fresh piece of parchment aside,
and began to write upon it. “You realize that this wicked beast is male, don’t
you? You know what the dragon is going to make you do for him?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Nothing
the nobles don’t already make me do.” Elyra’s words dripped with bitter poison.
Bekha’s quill froze upon the page for a moment. “If the dragon should so much
as thank me in his drowsy satisfaction, that alone would be an improvement. Yes,
I’m aware of what the beast may request. If you must know, serving the carnal
needs of a single dragon already sounds better than satisfying a dozen filthy
nobles.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Behka
went back to writing, and Elyra folded her arms. She stared at the mountain
tapestry again. “Dragons live in the mountains, don’t they? I mean…this dragon.
He lives in the mountains, right?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Behka
sighed a little, waving her quill. “I don’t know. I suspect he does.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
hope we have to fly to get there,” Elyra’s voice grew lower and lower. “I
should love to fly. Perhaps he’ll give me some of his gold.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“The
beast is known to demand plenty of it, so I suppose he’ll have some to share.”
The Head Mistress chuckled to herself. “Though I doubt such a foul creature
would share it. Are you sure you want to do this, Elyra?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
can’t take this life anymore.” Elyra stared into the Head Mistress’s eyes. “I’m
so close to leaving this horrible place I can almost taste the fresh air. If I
turn back now and don’t take this chance? Then you’re right. The next time
Atrius comes for me I really will put him through a window.” She closed her
eyes and leaned her head back against the chair. “This is a chance I have to
take.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So
be it, Elyra.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
wonder if he’ll take me when he goes to make his demands.” Elyra chuckled a
little bit. “Maybe he’ll even let me make a demand. It sounds exciting, don’t
you think?” Elyra could not hold back her smile. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It
sounds wicked, actually.” Behka grinned to herself, then signed the document in
a few places. She sanded the ink, then fetched a bit of red wax and a candle to
melt it with.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Head
Mistress, I’d like you to know something.” Elyra leaned forward, her eyes fixed
on the droplets of wax falling upon the document that would set her free. Her
voice sank to a whisper. “You have given me comfort over the years, where
everyone else only brought coldness and cruelty.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Bekha’s
hands shook a little as she set the candle down. She opened a drawer. She
retrieved a small golden signet, and pressed it into the wax. Then she blew
upon it till the wax began to dry. She blew away the drying sands, and very
slowly pushed the document across the table towards Elyra. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“This
will get you what you ask for, Elyra.” She sank back in her chair, heaving a
sigh. “May you find some measure of happiness with it.” </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
had to work to quell the shaking of her hands long enough to hold the letter
and read it. It was just as promised. It named her as the woman to be offered
to the dragon, and that the request should be fulfilled immediately. Elyra read
it three times to be sure. Then she bowed as deeply as she could. Not for
decorum, but in genuine thanks and with real respect. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank
you, Head Mistress.” </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Head Mistress gave her a little smile, and waved. “You’re welcome. Good luck,
Elyra.” </span></div>
The Wilder Landshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09024638755887735262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3106716999918755903.post-20197546298066747222014-11-23T13:58:00.001-08:002014-11-23T13:58:34.433-08:00Chapter Three<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Chapter
Three</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
nudged a stone with her foot, scowling as it toppled down the steep, rocky
hillside she’d just climbed. Stiff winds whipped her scarlet hair behind her
head, her golden dress fluttered around her like the snapping banner that
towered over the hill. Just how long was this supposed to take? Did the dragon
know she was here? She couldn’t even ask the man who’d brought her. He’d fled
with his carriage right after he made her unpack her own belongings. He was as
cowardly and quick to be rid of her as the nobles themselves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">They’d
never even let her say goodbye to everyone. No sooner had she presented her
letter to the proper authorities than they were trying to shove her into a carriage.
She barely even had time to collect her meager belongings, but she refused to
leave without her artwork. When they finally gave her a chance to go and
collect her things, the women’s quarters were empty. Elyra suspected they did
not want her giving anyone else ideas. They’d probably tell the other women
they’d sacrificed Elyra to the dragon for her misbehavior.</span></div>
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<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Not
that Elyra expected to miss many of the other women. Cold as that may seem,
she’d never been able to connect with the other servant wenches. They were just
too empty for Elyra to call them friends. Jadira was the exception, and Elyra
was glad to find her in the hidden corridors. Elyra hugged Jadira with a
fierceness that surprised her. She told her to cherish the love she’d found
with Dahn, and did her best to explain what was happening. When Jadira looked
at her as though she’d sprouted her own dragon’s head, Elyra decided just to
thank her for her friendship and say her goodbyes. Afterwards she went straight
to the carriage, half-afraid the nobles would change their minds at any moment.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
journey from the capital out into the countryside where the dragon dwelled
lasted just over a week. The carriage driver barely spoke save to complain
about everything, but Elyra didn’t mind. She was mesmerized by the world beyond
the carriage windows. To a woman who’d spent nearly her whole life trapped
inside the Hall Of Nobility, every day brought with it new wonders. There were
swarms of glittering emerald dragonflies one day, and sticky-toed frogs that
clung to the windows of an inn near a lazy brook the next night. Each time they
stopped at a different country inn, the beds felt so soft Elyra feared she’d
sink right through to the floor. Elyra almost didn’t want to the journey to
come to an end. But it did when the carriage came to a stop at the base of a
lonesome, stony hill and Elyra was instructed to wait for the dragon at the
very top.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">So
Elyra climbed, and Elyra waited.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">And
waited.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
squinted against the wind, half-hoping to make out the dragon in the distance.
She rubbed her arms and glanced at the position of the sun, trying to determine
just how long she’d waited. She wasn’t used to spending so much time in the
sunlight. The warmth was wonderful. She rubbed her arms and hoped the wind
would not grow too bitter if she was kept waiting beyond sunset. At least
they’d given her other clothing to wear if she grew too cold. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
glanced down the slope of the rocky, moss-draped hill she’d recently ascended.
A leather pack with a plush bed roll strapped to it lay in the long, soft grass
below. Nearby sat a collection of boxes lashed together with stiff, braided
rope. The carriage driver told her she had to wait atop the hill, but if she
grew cold she’d climb all the way back down and fetch something warmer.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
paced about the summit. She chose her steps carefully as the ground was
littered with loose stones and carpeted in slippery moss. Deep gouges marked
the earth in some places. Thick scratch marks marred some of the larger stones.
A large gray granite boulder taller than Elyra sat nearby. She paced around it
and ran a hand over some of the yellowy lichen that softened its otherwise
pitted, coarse surface. Several old scratches marked the boulder. Elyra ran a
finger down one of the scratch marks, marveling at it. Some part of her
relished the idea of serving a creature whose very claws could cut stone. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Cold
hands tied her stomach in knots. She grimaced, kneading the already scuffed
fabric of her golden dress. The longer the dragon kept her waiting, the harder
the wait became. To keep her mind from wandering darkened roads, she focused
herself on her surroundings. The view from the hilltop was stunning. It was
everything she’d hoped it would be and it helped to ease her concern. Elyra leaned
up against the boulder, gazing at the lands through which she’d traveled to
serve the dragon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Rippling
green grass surrounded the rugged hilltop, dotted with patches of bright blue
flowers waving in the breeze. Beyond the meadow was an entire ocean of emerald,
a world of pine and spruce and earth and fern like nothing Elyra had ever
known. It had held her transfixed through the carriage window for the last few
days of her journey. The aromas of fresh pine sap, the hint of sweet
wildflowers, they all seemed so perfectly clean compared to the wretched
chamber she spent her life in till now. Even that was forgotten once she could
see the mountains. Elyra caught glimpses of them through the trees as she’d
traveled, but now at last the mountains were right there in front of her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Even
at a distance the mountains towered over everything, sun-painted sentinels
keeping silent watch over the world itself. Their jagged peaks stretched in an
endless wall of immense stony teeth and talons, plated cliffs and spires like
towering spines. Elyra smiled to herself. Clearly she had dragons on the brain.
The timeless stone glowed gold where the sun kissed it, fading to a faint
purple-gray where the shadows roamed. They were even more majestic than she’d
imagined, and she could not wait for the dragon to come and take her to them. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s
smile grew as she pulled away from the boulder, striding towards the dragon’s
banner pole. The cold knots in her belly eased a little, replaced with a
trembling sort of excitement. She wrapped her hands around the banner pole, and
spun around it, laughing. Part of Elyra knew she ought to be frightened, and
she banished that part to the darkest recesses her mind had to offer. She was
free now, and she would not allow herself to quake in fear of an unknown fate.
It was all too easy to give in to fear, and Elyra refused. She had chosen this
path, and she was going to relish it. Let others be ruled by their fear. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
carriage driver for her journey was certainly ruled by his fears. He seemed to
think offering a few moments of assistance would get him eaten by the dragon.
Not that his behavior had surprised her, given what she’d already witnessed. A
few days ago they’d traveled past a small village where Elyra caught a glimpse
of a creature that looked like a little horned coyote in merchant’s vestments.
She’d never met another speaking race so she’d asked the driver to stop.
Instead, he put the whip to the horses, ranting about thieves and barbarians as
he sped past the village. Coward.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
shook her head, chuckling. If the dragon ever went to demand treasure from that
little village she’d have to ask to go with so she could see the people there.
Elyra also wanted to return to the last city they stopped at, where all the
roads were laid out in circles like a village in some children’s tale. The
people there were so friendly. When they learned she’d actually volunteered to
serve the dragon, they’d given her a new dress, shoes, sandals, and supplies.
The father of the girl that the dragon rejected even came and gave her a hug.
Elyra was unused to genuine affection and her first instinct was to wriggle
free, but soon Elyra hugged him back. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
wasted no time in ruining the golden dress they’d given her to wear for the
dragon. She had not ruined it out of spite, but out of joy. Though there was a
trail leading from the meadow to the top of the hill, what fun was that? Elyra
wanted to feel alive. She wanted to climb a mountain. So Elyra clambered her
way over ledges and little cliffs, across boulders and up rocky slopes until at
last she’d conquered the dragon’s hill. By the time she reached the summit her
dress was soiled, scuffed and torn, and her body was bruised and aching. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">So
this was how it felt to be alive and free. Elyra relished it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
wondered if dragons ever simply savored the feeling of being alive. Of being
free. Wicked or not, she could think of no creature better suited to savor its
own life than a dragon. Like wild animals they were free of the obligations and
burdens of men, like birds they could fly anywhere they chose, and yet they had
the thinking mind needed to appreciate their life. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yet
you probably take it all for granted, don’t you,” Elyra said, staring at the
dragon’s banner. It was a handsome banner, the sort of thing she imagined some
dangerous mercenary band would fly above their camp. The fact it belonged to a
dragon made it even more exotic. “Do you even know how lucky you are?” She
scowled at the banner. “I bet you don’t even appreciate your own freedom. I
hope you enjoy it, you lucky bastard.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
wondered how the dragon himself might celebrate his life. Perhaps he’d roast an
entire village worth of sheep and have himself a feast. Or maybe he’d just
roast the village. No doubt he’d give a victorious roar while he watched the
place burn. A roar to celebrate being alive. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Yes,
a roar. Elyra liked the sound of that. If she was a dragon, she’d roar her
freedom so loudly all the nobles back in the city would hear it. Hell, she
didn’t have to be a dragon to try that. Elyra took a deep breath, thrust her
fists into the air and threw back her head as she roared. She yelled so loud it
hurt her throat and she did not care. Elyra screamed to the sky until she was
utterly out of breath. Then while she wheezed and gasped for air, she marveled
at the way her own voice echoed down from the hill and across the land. She
never knew she could make such a noise. Warm happiness buoyed her heart.
Already she was finding such unexpected joys in her newfound--</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Something
roared back at her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Though
the sound was but a distant echo of the original roar, the reverberating tones
and the primal nature of it made her shiver. Every hair stood on end, ice
poured from her frozen heart. Her tongue lodged in her throat as the echoes of
that wicked roar cascaded across the hill. There was no mistaking the owner of
that roar, though she could not yet see him. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
pressed her back up against the pole. Her body trembled. She closed her eyes,
the last whispers of the roar still rolling in the distance. Elyra forced
herself to take deep breaths. He wanted courage, she would show him courage.
Give him a reason to respect her. She could do this. Elyra opened her eyes. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was time to meet the dragon. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
spotted the carriage, and joy filled his heart. He knew it bore his new
servant. Galvarys felt as though he’d waited ages. The dragon had passed the
time in the usual ways, hunting, eating, sleeping, terrifying. The longer it
took, the more his curiosity and boredom grew. The deeper the idea of having
his own servant took root in his mind, the more the dragon could not wait until
she was here. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When
the dragon finally saw her carriage he was so excited he was practically
dancing in the skies. He flew little loops and pinwheels, dangerous yet
exciting maneuvers that fit the dragon’s mood. Galvarys spun in the sky, as
excited as a hatchling whose mother just stole him some new toys. The dragon
had to restrain himself from landing in front of the carriage as soon as he
spotted it. Legends should never seem overeager. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">For
a time, Galvarys tracked the carriage on its progress towards Tribute Hill.
He’d been out flying and looking for something to amuse himself with when he
first spotted it. Its pale blue colors and golden accoutrements stood out upon
the road, especially compared to the more drab conveyances the locals used. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
circled above the carriage so high he doubted the humans would spot him even if
they looked up. If they did, he’d seem so small they’d probably think him a
vulture. On second thought, they’d think him an eagle. Vultures were too ugly a
bird to ever be confused with something as regal as a dragon. Humans rarely seemed
to look up for long anyway unless they were firing arrows at something in the
sky. If that was the case for the carriage passengers, then they were about to
have a serious disagreement.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon decided against flying straight to his hill to await his servant
delivery. Dragons did not wait for humans, humans waited for dragons. Galvarys
would hunt first and let her do the waiting. He’d catch something to eat and
take his time savoring his prey. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon soon caught himself a deer, and settled in a clearing in the forest.
Pine needles prickled at his paw pads. A few forceful beats of his wings
swirled the dead needles around him, exposing bare earth. When the ground was
clear, he settled down upon it. The exposed soil brought with it a heady,
earthen aroma that mingled with the fresh smells of spruce and pine that clung
to the forest. The scent of blood oozing from freshly slaughtered prey added a
sweet, coppery tint to the air. The blood-scent always made the dragon’s belly
growl and Galvarys fought the urge to gorge himself.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
used his fire to burn the fur from the deer. Burnt fur gave the air a charred
stink. The dragon beat his wings again, chasing the scent away. He tore the
hind limbs from the carcass then used more flame to roast the outer flesh. Much
as he hated to admit humans were ever right about anything, fire did do
something magical to meat. Not that he roasted the entire deer. The dragon ate
much of it raw. Despite enjoying the flavor of seared flesh, nothing could
quite better the taste of meat so fresh it was still bleeding. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When
the dragon was full, he pushed himself back up to all fours. There was little
left of the deer carcass beyond bones and the bits Galvarys did not like. The
dragon tended to avoid the belly and intestines of his prey, tasted too much
like bile and the things they ate. They’d make a better meal for the scavengers
and insects. Galvarys sniffed around, following the scent of water to the edge
of a small stream that trickled through the pine forests. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was a pretty little stream, small enough that the dragon could easily straddle
it with forepaws on one shoreline and hind paws on the other. Hell, he could
stretch his neck across it if he wanted. The cool, shallow water trickled
around mossy stones and submerged limbs. A small pool at a bend held enough
depth to support a few tiny, silvery-blue fish that darted into a sunken log as
the dragon approached. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon peered at his own reflection for a moment. The ridged black horns that
crowned his wedge-shaped head held a rare spiral to them that Galvarys found befitting
his regal nature and growing legend. The deer blood that caked his pebbly,
indigo scales made him look delightfully dangerous. Still, he’d be quite
disappointed if his new servant pissed herself. He’d better wash it off.
Galvarys lowered his muzzle to the water, lapping at it for long moments. The
water was cool as it slid down the dragon’s long throat, tasted fresh and
sweet. When his thirst was quenched, he used his paws to scoop water and rinse
away the crimson stains of his meal.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Somewhere
in the distance, a woman screamed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
jerked his head up from the stream, his spines flared in alarm. Droplets of
water clung to his pebbly blue scales. He flicked his frilled ears, turned his
head towards the sound. The scream sounded as though it came from the direction
of Tribute Hill. The dragon lowered his eye ridges. Usually when people
screamed, he was the one terrifying them. Was someone attacking his new
servant? That was cause for incineration.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
took a deep breath, tipped back his black-horned head and gave a roar fit to
shatter the skies themselves. The roar was all fury and threat, the same primal
sound a dragon would make if anyone dared threaten their hatchlings. Or in this
case a sound that meant, “hands off my servant”. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon sprang up through the pine canopy. He beat his wings against the air,
snapping pine boughs and pricking his sensitive membranes with needles. The
little jabs of pain urged him onward. Whoever was endangering his new servant
was about to be in a lot more pain than that. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Once
the dragon ascended above the treetops, he dipped a wing and spun in the air. Tribute
Hill rose in the distance like a scaly wart upon the land, all gray rock and
green moss. The dragon pushed himself harder, wings striking at the air with
growing fury. His heart hammered at his thick sternum. The pulse of blood
echoed through the minor heart near his tail. How dare someone try to harm his
servant. Did they not see the banner? Everything here belonged to him. It had
better not be one of those thieving cat-birds or he was going to have a new
trophy for his collection.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">As
the dragon hurtled towards the hill, details came into focus for his sharp
eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A woman in a golden dress stood
near his banner, but he saw no sign of anyone causing her trouble. He did not
even see the carriage that had brought her. Perhaps the driver tried to put his
hands where they did not belong, and Galvarys’ roar had scared him off. Yes,
surely that was what happened. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Well,
that made two good deeds in his life. That had to be a record for a dragon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When
Galvarys knew the woman was not in immediate danger, he slowed his flight. Once
he’d drawn near the hill, he circled it, surveying the area to make sure there
was no one lying in wait just beyond the meadow. The area looked clear and
safe. The dragon tightened his circles and began to descend. The woman looked
taller and fuller of body than the last, with hair the color of fire streaming
out behind her head. Oh, he liked that. The woman pressed her back up against
his banner pole, turned her head to keep track of the dragon. Yet even as he
swept in for a landing she made no attempt to dash behind the nearby boulder. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">So
far, so good. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
touched down upon his hind paws. Then he dropped down onto his forepaws, claws
slightly unsheathed for purchase as he trotted to a stop across the stony
expanse of Tribute Hill. For a moment he simply stared at the girl from a
distance, and she stared back. Then she stepped away from the pole and stood up
straight, hands balled up into fists at her sides. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
padded towards the woman, watching her for signs of threat or fear. The woman
swallowed hard, but she did not tremble at the dragon’s approach. She showed no
sign that she’d been crying, either. That was good. This woman already seemed
to handle her fear far better than the last girl. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“They’ve
made you my tribute?” Galvarys cocked his head. He’d better make sure she
wasn’t just some girl who wandered here and climbed his hill in a drunken
stupor. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
have come here to serve you, yes.” The girl’s voice started soft, but it gained
strength and fire with every word as though the simple act of speaking to the
dragon like a rational creature was all it took to inspire her courage. “But no
one has made me do anything. It was my choice that brought me here to stand
before you. I volunteered to work for you, Dragon.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Really?”
The dragon pulled his head back, neck arching into an S. Suspicion crept into
his heart, little icy trickles filtered into his blood. Could she be some
assassin or dragon slayer come to murder him in his sleep? “Why?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl swallowed again. She was nervous yet she seemed to be unwilling to let her
fear take hold of her heart. Galvarys stared into her unusual gray eyes. They
trembled and flitted about, but she did not look away. He saw no deception
there, though suspicion often kept dragons alive. “To escape a life I could not
bear to live for another day. Whether you believe it or not, serving a dragon
will be a great improvement to serving the band of filth I have spent my life
tending.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
snorted, blowing her red hair back from her face. “Of course I believe it. Who
wouldn’t want to serve a dragon?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl’s lips twitched. Was she holding back a smile? “Indeed.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Very
well,” the dragon said, licking his nose. “Have you under things on beneath
your dress?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
woman’s eyes widened. She sucked in a breath. She bit her lip, then nodded.
“Yes.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Good.”
The dragon cocked his head. “Lift your dress, then.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Already?”
The girl tensed. Galvarys expected her to take a step back, but she remained where
she was. “If I must.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
are you babbling about?” The dragon cocked his horned head the other direction.
“Are you hiding something under there?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hiding
something?” The girl scrunched her face. “Are you accusing me of being a man in
a dress? I may not be the most beautiful of maidens…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon blinked a few times, then hissed through his teeth. “I want to make sure
you aren’t hiding a poisoned dagger beneath your clothes before I get any
closer, you silly female.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh…”
The girl’s face reddened. She swallowed, rubbing her forehead hard enough to
leave little marks. “That’s it?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
else would I want?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“The
same thing all the other arrogant men want when they boss me around.” The
woman’s face flushed further till it was nearly the color of her hair. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
growled in his throat. The woman’s eyes dropped. The dragon did not know humans
could display that vibrant a shade of red. Still, he knew turning crimson meant
embarrassment among humans. He dragged unsheathed claws across the mossy rocks,
grumbling.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why
does everyone think I want to be pleasured by human females lately?” At least
she had the boldness to put it to words.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
woman furrowed her brows, lifting her eyes again. “You don’t?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No!”
Galvarys waved those same unsheathed claws at her. “Now lift your damn dress.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
woman gave the dragon a funny little grin he couldn’t quite decipher. He’d
never seen a human smile that way. Was he amusing her? Perhaps she was relieved
she wouldn’t have to polish the dragon’s spear after all. The girl took a step
back, made sure she was upon stable ground, and then began to hike up the golden
skirt of her dress. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
woman scrunched up the dirtied, scuffed golden fabric, and pulled it up as high
as she could. Aside from what was covered by simple, gray undergarments the
dragon saw her entire body. Her skin was a uniform pale shade. She looked much
less malnourished than the waif they’d sent earlier. Her body looked softer,
her curves fully developed. He still wasn’t sure if she ate enough but at least
she seemed to be an adult. She turned a circle to show she didn’t have anything
strapped to her back. A few old scars marked her here and there, thin white
lines against pale skin. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When
he was satisfied, the dragon clicked his jaws. “You may lower your dress.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When
the woman dropped her dress back down and turned to face him again, the dragon
spent a moment studying her face. The flattened faces of humans all looked
about the same to him. The paleness of her skin highlighted the fiery radiance
of her red hair. The dragon tried to compare her features to those of other
human women he’d seen up close. He thought perhaps her features were softer,
her cheeks and chin more rounded. Her nose looked a little smaller, slightly
upturned. A scar in a strange, spiral-star pattern marked her right cheek. Her
eyes seemed the color of slate at a distance, yet up close the dragon could see
tiny silver flecks in them like mica in granite. Galvarys found her hair and
eyes fascinating. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
strode forward and pressed his muzzle to the golden fabric covering her body.
The girl gave a little squeal of surprise. She tensed up but did not flee or
try to push the dragon away. His indigo nostrils flared as he sought her scent.
Much like the first girl they’d sent, she smelt of honeyed perfumes and
wildflowers, yet this time there was no underlying scent of sour terror. She
had not sobbed and sweated herself into a stench while waiting for the dragon’s
arrival. Since she did not pull away, the dragon curled himself around her a
little, sniffing her throat, her back, her hair. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Beneath
the perfumes that clung to her dress were natural scents that told the dragon
more about her. To a dragon, a creature’s scent was like a complex puzzle.
Beyond the simple surface of whether a smell was pleasant or not were bits and
pieces of a creature’s identity. The dragon could tell humans of different
villages apart by subtle variations in their scents. In the same way, the
dragon could tell this girl was from somewhere far from here. There was less of
the wild land in her smell, less of the earth and forest and no wild game in
her diet. She smelt more of stone and old wood, and a soft mustiness that might
take time to be properly washed away. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
smell odd,” the dragon said, pulling his head back. “You’re not one of the
village girls.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No,
I’m not,” the woman said, straightening out her dress when the dragon was done
smelling her. “I’m from the capital, quite a ways from here. I’ve spent most of
my life being humiliated and belittled by the sort of men who have the most
wealth and power yet deserve the least. Most days I was locked in a castle, and
when I was allowed into the city streets it was only to fulfill an errand some
arrogant fop couldn’t be bothered to do himself. Even then, this mark I bear
ensured that…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
yes,” the dragon said, waving his paw. “I only wondered where you’re from. I
did not need to hear The Story of the Sad Wench.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl straightened and set her jaw. “Please don’t call me that.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What,
sad?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“…Wench.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why
not?” The dragon licked his nose a few times, trying to cleanse her lingering
scent. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
do not like it.” The girl gripped the fabric of her golden dress, kneading it
in her hands. “Are you through examining me?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“For
the moment,” the dragon said, mulling over what she’d said. So she did not like
to be called a wench. He’d store that little bit of information in the back of
his mind for the next time he wished to insult her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Then
may I examine you?” The girl took a step forward and waited for the dragon’s
permission. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Examine
me?” Galvarys pulled his head back, his neck curling into an S. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
if I may.” The girl took another step towards him, smiling a little. “It should
help to put me at ease. You have examined me, and now it only seems fair I
should be allowed to do the same. With your permission, of course. After all, I
have never seen a dragon before, and I should like to know the creature I am to
serve.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Pride
swelled the dragon’s chest and lifted his spines. She must have been in awe of
him if she wished to examine him. Surely by examine she meant bask in his regal
beauty. Well if she was that impressed, he may as well let her. Lingering
suspicion tugged at his heart, but to deny her would show cowardice. The dragon
lifted his head and grinned down at her, spreading his limbs for a wider
stance. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Very
well, Girl. Since you’re clearly awed by my presence, I shall allow you to
examine me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon wasn’t as big as Elyra expected. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Not
that the dragon was not impressive in his own right. The top of his back was
higher than that of a large horse, and his long neck was both sturdy and
elegant. Certainly he was the largest living thing she’d ever seen, and he’d
have no trouble at all carrying her about like a doll. Yet Elyra expected a
house-sized monstrosity capable of swallowing her whole without a second thought.
This creature seemed little larger than the graceful carriage that carried her
here. Perhaps it was simply impossible for the real thing to live up to the
legend.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">At
least the natural indigo armor that covered the dragon’s body was as impressive
as expected. The dragon’s scales varied greatly from the fine, pebbly-textured
scales of his face, to the broad resilient scales along his body and the heavy
plates protecting his chest. The dragon had scutes across the front of each
limb, like the underbelly of a snake. His dark blue color faded slightly
towards his belly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon also bore a great deal of ebony markings. There were black stripes
across all his limbs and tail. Inky spots stretched across his wings and
rippled in a few places along their edges. More black blotches decorated his
body, marked his face. Fine gray lines and splotches also marked many places.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">An
imposing array of horns, spikes and spines decorated the dragon. Elyra thought
his head was shaped roughly like a wedge, taller and broader than that of a
common lizard. His skull was crowned with a pair of heavily ridged black horns
with a spiral shape. A collection of spines began between the dragons horns,
and ran in a line down the back of his neck. Smaller spines fanned out behind
the dragon’s frilled ears. When the dragon talked Elyra noticed that his
head-spines were all connected by thin blue membranes. They rose, fell, and
fanned out as the dragon spoke. The dragon’s tail flicked behind him, and Elyra
saw sturdy, curved spines tipped either side of it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
was struck by just how bright the dragon’s eyes were. She’d never seen eyes
like that before in all her life. They were shining and silver, like moonlight
poured into spherical form. The silver color was not confined only to the
dragon’s irises, the rest of his eyes were a softer, silvery-gray rather than
white. The blackness of the dragon’s vertical pupils stood out all the more
against such intense metallic colors. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
have beautiful eyes,” Elyra said. She did not intend it as mere flattery, but
simply a truthful compliment. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
I know,” the dragon said. He flashed her some teeth in what she hoped was a
grin. His spiky frills flicked and twitched. “So do you. And you’ve beautiful
hair.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
was not surprised by the dragon’s arrogance, but the compliment nearly knocked
her off her feet. In all her life, she could not recall anyone but her mother ever
speaking such words. Most men seemed to find her gray eyes dull, drawn instead
to more striking colors. And her hair? While she was proud of it, in this day
and age hair that was both red and straight marked her as little more than a
remnant of a nearly forgotten people. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
like my hair?” Elyra struggled to collect herself. She brushed her fingers
through her own hair, they caught in a wind knot. “My eyes?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I do.”
The dragon dipped his head. Then he clicked his teeth, swiveling his frilled
ears forward. “But I already stated that. Do you have a hearing problem? I can
speak louder when I give you orders.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
chuckled to herself, shaking her head. Red tresses swished back and forth. “No,
I heard you the first time. I just…” She wrung her hands, rubbing her thumb
against her palm. “I thought you might be teasing me. I don’t usually get that
sort of compliment.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why
not?” The dragon turned his body a little to let her continue to examine him.
“Are you considered unattractive among humans?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,”
Elyra said without hesitation. Her looks hadn’t ever stopped the nobles from
seeking her services or tossing her into their beds. “Sort of. Not exactly.
It’s complicated. I’m just not used to compliments.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Humans
are confusing.” The dragon snorted. “I shall pay compliments where they are
earned. Your eyes are quite mysterious. They are like silver moonlight filtered
through dark clouds. And your hair is beautiful, like shimmering fire you have
somehow tamed.” He stretched a wing forward to scratch at his neck with the
black talon tipping it. “If I were a human these are qualities that would make
me wish to mount you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
stared at the dragon. A grin slowly replaced what began as a befuddled
expression. It baffled her how the dragon could say something so unexpected and
beautiful in the same breath as something so crass and dirty. “Thank you, then.
I think.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
walked along the dragon’s body, marveling at his wings. Seeing him in flight
allowed her to realize the massive extent of his wingspan yet his wings folded
so neatly against his body. She reached towards one of his wings, then pulled
her hand back before she made contact. The dragon lifted his wing a little. The
thickly muscled joint where it connected to his body sprouted just behind his
shoulder. The membranes attached along the base of his wing stretched all the
way down to his haunches. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Given
the way the dragon seemed to enjoy showing himself off, she took her time to
indulge her curiosity. Elyra found the dragon fascinating despite his abrasive
nature and an ego she was starting to think weighed more than he did. Part of
her wanted to reach out and touch the dragon, to feel the texture of his scales,
his wings. Was he cool to the touch, or was he warm? Was his scaly body rough,
or smooth? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
walked around behind him. Twelve spines tipped the end of the dragon’s tail,
with six on either side. The two outside spines on either side were the smallest
and they grew larger towards the central spines. Those were as big around as
her wrist at their bases. She stared a moment, then glanced up at the dragon.
When the dragon saw where her attention was, he lifted his tail a little to
raise his spines. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“They’re
as deadly as they look.” The dragon shook them in the air. “They’ve no trouble
at all punching through armor and bone.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
brushed a single finger against one of the dragon’s tail spines. It was smooth
and hard, and she kept her finger away from its tip. “I can imagine. You
dragons are nothing but natural weapons and armor, it seems.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
shall take that as a compliment.” The dragon peered back at her over his wings.
“I like compliments.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
walked along the dragon’s tail until it met his body. Curious, she let her gaze
drift beneath his tail while he had it lifted. Her eyes widened. If she hadn’t
known the dragon was male, she certainly did now. “You have…” She giggled,
shaking her head. “I didn’t think you would.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What?”
The dragon cocked his head. Then he narrowed his eyes, hissing. “You didn’t
think I’d have what?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
gulped, hoping she hadn’t offended the dragon. May as well just blurt it out.
“I didn’t think you’d have balls, Dragon.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of
course I’ve balls!” The dragon snarled at her, pinning his ears back. “I am
male!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
know that,” Elyra said, softening her voice. She bowed her head a little,
wondering what sort of gesture a dragon might take as respectful apology. “I
just thought they’d be inside you. Like a lizard.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
am not a lizard,” the dragon said, growling. Elyra almost thought it sounded
like there was a hint of sulkiness in his voice. “Touch me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What?”
Elyra blinked in surprise, glancing up at the dragon’s face then back at his
hind end again. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Just
touch me, Girl.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“If
I must.” Elyra took a breath, held it for a moment. She slipped her hand
beneath the dragon’s tail, cupping and feeling him. He was far warmer than she
expected.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hey!”
The dragon’s cry sounded distinctly like a startled yelp. He pulled away from
her. “Unhand those!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“But
you said…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not
those!” The dragon spun around, his tail spines whistled through the air and
narrowly missed his banner pole. “I meant put a hand on my body to feel my
warmth, so you’d know I am not a lizard!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">So
much heat rushed to Elyra’s face that the rest of her went cold. “Of course!”
In her embarrassment, she fell back onto habit. She grasped her skirt, pulled
it out into a curtsy and bowed before the dragon. “I’m sorry, Dragon. It’s just
that, I thought you wanted me to…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Grab
my balls?” The dragon raised his eye ridges. Elyra couldn’t tell if that was
smugness or confusion in his rumbling voice.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
stared down at the stony ground. It was not touching the dragon’s privates that
truly embarrassed her. Rather it was that a lifetime as a noble’s plaything had
ingrained such ideas in her mind. The dragon must think her a whore. “Usually,
when a man tells me to touch him…” If she blushed any harder, she feared her
face might combust. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So
tell him you do not desire to share pleasure.” The dragon shifted himself. He
settled back upon his haunches, curling his tail about his paws. “Or bite one
of his ears off to teach him to respect you as a female.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Despite
her embarrassment, Elyra found herself smiling at both the idea and the matter-of-fact
way the dragon put it. She tried to picture Atrius’ fat face if she bit off one
of his ears. How sweet that would be. “If only I could, Dragon.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon grunted. She knew he didn’t understand, but he’d already cut her off
once, so she did not offer any further explanation. At least he wasn’t
insulting her. “Why are you bent over like that?” The dragon cocked his head. “Have
you a back ache?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
blinked, realizing the dragon had never seen anyone curtsy before. She
straightened up, shifting her dress. “It’s called a curtsy. It’s a sign of
respect, or a non-verbal apology.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It
looks ridiculous. Do not do it again.” The dragon stared down at Elyra. “While
your respect is appropriate, dragons appreciate bluntness. If you wish to
apologize, simply do so.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Very
well, Dragon.” Elyra straightened up. She searched the dragon’s face for a
moment, trying to determine if he was angry with her. His frilled blue ears and
the area around his indigo nostrils had both turned a purplish hue. Elyra
wondered if that was a dragon’s blush. She smiled at the thought. “I’m sorry I
grabbed your balls.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon grunted, glancing away. He pinned his indigo ears back. “Accepted. You
merely startled me as a human has never done that before.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No,
I would imagine not.” Elyra said. “Yet you did ask for a woman with courage.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
didn’t know humans equated courage with grabbing a dragon by the balls.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s
smile grew as she felt her belly tighten with a bout of laughter struggling to
burst free. She pressed a hand to her mouth. She did not want the dragon to
think she was laughing at him, but the ludicrousness of it was overwhelming
her. God, if she could tell the other servant wenches she’d groped a dragon,
they’d never believe her. Elyra bit down on a knuckle, glancing at the dragon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Quit
your giggling and come put your hand upon my chest.” The dragon licked his
still-purple nose, curling his neck to peer down at her.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
wrestled with her laughter and forced it to yield before she stepped up to the
dragon, careful not to tread upon his tail or paws. She put her hand upon the
plates of his chest. They were dark blue, though the color faded where the
plates transitioned back into scales across his stomach. His underbelly lacked
the black mottling, but she saw a few more gray lines and blotches. The plating
felt smooth, strong, and very warm as it rose and fell beneath her hand. The
plates that protected the dragon’s heart and lungs were more like large
overlapping scales that followed the musculature of his chest than those on the
belly of a snake. No plate was exactly the same size or shape as the others,
yet they all fit neatly together across his chest.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’re
right,” Elyra said, running a single finger along a line between two plates.
“You’re far warmer than any lizard.” As a girl she’d caught lizards in the
alleys to supplement scarce meals. “You actually feel rather pleasant. Not
rough or cold or anything.” She looked up at the dragon’s head. “May I feel
your face?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Very
well,” the dragon murmured. “But then we are to return home. You’ve a long day
of being my servant ahead of you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
chuckled. “What is it you wish me to do?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Whatever
I damn well desire.” The dragon snapped his jaws for emphasis. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
smirked at him. Sounded like the dragon didn’t have the first clue what he
wanted from her. “Of course, my Lord Dragon. Lower your head, if you please.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
know that look.” The dragon lowered his head, but the growl and the way he kept
his silver eyes locked onto Elyra’s made her breath catch in her throat. “What
are you smirking at, Wench?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">There
was that word again. Anger and fear waged a brief but violent war in her head. Anger
told her to slap the arrogance out of his muzzle, but fear told her she’d lose
her arm. Thankfully, common sense stepped in to subdue both emotions. Elyra
refused to pull her eyes away from the dragon’s mercurial gaze. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
meant no offense, Dragon, and I apologize for any I may have caused. If I may
ask, please don’t call me that.” Elyra’s voice was firm enough to rise above
the dragon’s lingering growl, yet respectful enough to ensure she did not rouse
his anger further.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Then
quit smirking, Girl.” The dragon snorted, but his growl eased off, and he
tipped his head down. “You may touch my face now.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
wondered how the dragon would react if she poked him in the eye. She grit her
teeth to bury her laughter. Elyra put her hand between the dragon’s indigo
nostrils. The warmth was expected but the softness surprised her. Fine, pebbly
textured scales covered much of the dragon’s face, but around his nose there
was only soft, leathery skin. If the dragon was not such a pompous ass she
might enjoy petting his nose. His ears flicked. He lifted his spines and spread
the blue membranes between them. Black mottling marked the unveiled frills.
Curious, she reached for a frill but the dragon pulled his head back. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That
is enough.” The dragon rose back up to all fours. He gazed around the hill,
spined tail lashing. “I feel exposed when I linger upon this hill too long.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
sighed. He wasn’t the friendliest of beasts, but what had she expected? Some
kind-hearted old hermit, some kindred soul? She toyed with a small hole she’d
made in her dress when she fell on the rocks. “What do you mean? You don’t like
being looked at?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
don’t like being shot with arrows or stabbed with swords.” The dragon snorted,
turning his head to scan the edge of the vast pine forest nearby. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
furrowed her brow. “I thought you were at peace with the locals?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
have a truce with the Five Villages,” the dragon said, glancing alongside his
body at the woman standing next to him. “But there are always people looking to
kill dragons.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s
gaze wandered the dragon’s body. All the gray lines and splotches were not
markings. They were scars. For a moment, she actually pitied the creature.
“You’ve been hurt a lot, haven’t you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Minor
wounds,” the dragon said, tossing his horned head. “No humans have ever had
what it takes to end my life.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon’s arrogance was not enough to drain her pity completely. Elyra watched
the dragon scanning the edges of the forest, analyzing the shadows for hidden
archers and knights preparing an ambush. His life was not what she imagined.
How free could a creature feel with a life spent looking over his shoulder? Elyra
knew a little about how that felt as she had spent her life trying to avoid the
nobles. They both bore scars that spoke of their failures. Elyra reached out
towards the dragon’s shoulder, her fingers trembling in the air. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
have killed every man who has drawn steel against me, every man who has tried
to shoot me from the skies.” The dragon pawed at the earth, snorting. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
pulled her hand back. Perhaps they were not so alike after all. “Is that…a lot
of men you’ve killed?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
have killed more men than I have ever seen dragons.” The dragon pinned his ears
back, staring at the sky. He turned from her and began to make his way down the
hill.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
never imagined a creature could seem so terrifying and so lonely in the same
breath. </span></div>
The Wilder Landshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09024638755887735262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3106716999918755903.post-69471391230239347062014-11-23T13:58:00.000-08:002014-11-23T13:58:20.854-08:00Chapter Four<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Chapter
Four</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
picked his way down the rocky trail towards the meadow below Tribute Hill. He
set his paws with care, mindful of loose rocks. It would not be the first time
his paws slipped on the scree and he banged his jaw on the stone. When the
dragon reached the bottom of the hill, he glanced at his new servant. She
seemed more inclined to descend the larger outcrops with her belly against the
rocks than she did to stick to the trail that wound around them. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It
is easier if you follow the trail.” The dragon flicked his tail against the
ground, his spines tossed earth into the air. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
like climbing these little cliffs,” the girl said, hopping down from the last one.
She rubbed her hands against her increasingly dirty and torn golden dress.
“I’ve never had a chance to climb rocks before. I like the way it leaves me
feeling a little bruised.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
like to be bruised?” The dragon cocked his head, hissing. They’d sent him a
damn masochist. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl scrunched her face, red hair fluttering behind her. “No. That came out
wrong.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Perhaps
you should think before you speak.” The dragon padded across the grass to a
pile of what must be gifts for him. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl muttered something behind him. He glanced back at her and she raised her
voice. “It makes me feel alive to be aching and burning from the exertion, from
scuffing my knees.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
flicked his ears, wondering what she’d muttered first. He tilted his spiral-horned
head. “Of course you feel alive. You still draw breath, do you not?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Consider
yourself lucky you don’t understand.” The woman turned her head, gazing towards
the distant mountains. She folded her arms, her golden dress rustling around
her in the breeze. “Do you live in the mountains?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
I do.” The dragon turned away. She was an odd but intriguing girl, and more
courageous than the last waif. He certainly preferred bravery and intriguing
strangeness to cowering fear. “We shall be flying there shortly.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Wonderful!”
Now she sounded cheerful. “May I make a request for the flight?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
may not.” Galvarys put an end to that as soon as it began. Servants did not
make requests of dragons. But a reward would encourage good behavior. “If
you’re good, you may make a request later.”As far as Galvarys was concerned,
that was that. If she expected to request things of him, she’d have to prove
her value. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“But
you are going to take me flying, aren’t you?” The girl walked across the grass
until she stood just out of reach of the dragon’s teeth. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’m
not going to wait for you to walk all the way to my home.” The dragon tossed
his horned head with a disdainful snort. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Then
I should like to ask…” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
are these gifts for me?” Galvarys waved his paw at a collection of wooden boxes
stacked atop one another, sealed and lashed together with lengths of braided
rope. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“…If
I may ride upon your back. I was told in the village the last girl was left
dangling from your claws.” The girl leveled her gray gaze at Galvarys’ silver
eyes. “I am tired of being treated like luggage.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“This
is not a negotiation.” The dragon reached towards the boxes. He unsheathed a
single claw and reached for the rope, intent on slicing through the bindings to
see what was inside. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">To
his surprise, the girl darted forward and positioned herself between the dragon
and the crates. She took his paw in her hands, her fingers felt warm against
his pads. “If you cut that rope you’ll have trouble carrying your gifts.
They’re all lashed together so that you can carry them.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
growled under his breath, but when the girl pushed his paw away from the collection
of boxes he did not resist. “You’re a clever little thing. And quite brave.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
did ask for someone with courage.” The girl stared up at the dragon’s face. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">For
a moment he searched her eyes, trying to count the myriad emotions swirling
behind them. Humans were hard for Galvarys to read. He was far more familiar
with the body language of other dragons. A dragon’s emotions shone through in
their eyes. Their moods were reflected in the position of their ears and crests.
Human expressions were all scrunched skin and flickering glances.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
I did.” The dragon did not pull his paw away and she did not release it. “Why
did you volunteer, Girl?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Because
I wished to escape…” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why
did you really volunteer?” The dragon cut her off, hissing through his teeth.
Her grip tightened against his paw, but neither pulled away. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“If
servitude is to be my life, I would rather serve one wicked beast living a free
and adventurous life than a dozen filthy men.” The girl spat her words like
bile. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So
you think I’m a wicked beast, and yet you chose to serve me?” The dragon cocked
his head.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
I think you’re a wicked beast. You openly admit to slaying men and extorting
treasure from villages to prevent their destruction.” The girl cradled her
smaller hand beneath the central pad of the dragon’s paw. “And yes, I chose to
serve you just the same. I’d rather serve a dragon than be made a whore for
wretched nobles. Besides, they’ve just as much blood on their hands. They hide
and speak of it behind closed doors where they think no one can hear. But I
hear. And I remember.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon snorted, flaring his spines. “If they hide from their own deeds, then
they are cowards.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.”
The girl’s voice burned like wood beneath dragon’s flame. “They are. And
because they fear what we once were, they put a mark on my face that ensures my
life will always be spent in servitude to them. This is my way out of that. For
me, this is freedom. I would happily tend your every need, Dragon, in return
for a life spent far away from those men. A life spent among the mountains, and
in the sky.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
are an intriguing girl,” Galvarys said, cocking his head. He flicked his ears
back. There was more to this wench than he realized. “I like your courage.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Call
me a wench one too many times, and you’ll see how courageous I am when I break something
over your head.” The girl smirked up at him. “Before you threaten me, know that
I would consider death by infuriated dragon preferable to another day in that
horrible Hall. I considered myself on borrowed time anyway, because if I had to
pleasure one more foul noble I may have bitten it off.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon gave a boisterous, growling laugh. “As you well should, I think. You’ve
a spirit that shines as brightly as your eyes.” The dragon licked his nose,
then grinned at her, fangs flashing in the sunlight. “Besides wicked, what do
you think of me? Speak your mind. I shall not punish you even if you insult
me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’re
smaller than I expected.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys’
eyes went wide, his neck curled. “What?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl grinned at him. “I thought you’d be bigger, that’s all. You still look
quite regal.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
snorted. “What else?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl pulled on his paw a little till he turned it over to expose the mottled
gray pads on its underside. “I thought you’d be cold to the touch, not warm,
and I didn’t think you’d have soft pads.” She trailed a finger across the
dragon’s opposable digit. “Let alone a thumb.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
was not asking you to compare my anatomy to your imagination, and we both know
it.” The dragon flexed his paw a little. “Speak your mind before I rescind the
invitation.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
frighten me with how openly you talk of killing people.” The girl swallowed,
pursing her lips. “Half of what you say makes you sound like a spoiled brat who
thinks only of himself.” She turned her gray eyes up to the dragon’s face as
she spoke. “You returned that girl unharmed so I know you’ve a heart in there
somewhere. You live the life of complete freedom I’ve always dreamed of and yet
I suspect you squander it. I pity you the paranoia that must fill you at night,
fearing ambush from all your enemies. You seem to have seen so few of your own
kind. I imagine you are quite lonely without other dragons around.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Wrong.”
The dragon jerked his paw back from her and set it upon the grass. “Dragons
don’t get lonely.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
suspect dragons are natural liars.” The girl walked to her brown leather pack,
set not far from the boxes. A heavy, padded roll was strapped to the top of it.
She picked up the pack, and began to work it over her shoulders, glancing at
the dragon. “Does that mean everything else I said is accurate?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Only
the part about how regal I am.” The dragon lifted his head, flaring his spines.
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">With
her pack shouldered, the girl squared her shoulders and turned to face the dragon
again. “You called me a clever little thing earlier. Why?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
could say it’s because you decided to serve what you see as the lesser of two
evils.” The dragon waved his paw in the air, grinning. “Though I am not evil. I
simply do what is best for myself, as should any reasonable creature.” Then he
flicked his claws at the crates. “But I called you clever because you’ve had
those boxes lashed together in such a way as I must use my paws to carry them,
and thus must allow you to ride upon my back.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl glanced at the boxes, then back at the dragon. She shrugged. “That would be
convenient for me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
would of course, be wrong.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
reached out and grasped the boxes with one forepaw. He pulled them up against
his chest, cradling them against his plates. The braided ropes that lashed the
boxes together would prevent them from breaking loose in flight. By the time
the girl realized what the dragon had in mind it was too late. Galvarys sprang
forward off his hind paws and snatched her up with his other foreleg. As the
dragon ascended the girl gave a startled squeal, clutched against him just like
the rest of his gifts. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It
took only a few wing beats for the world below to fall away into an ocean of
trees. The pine forest stretched in all directions across this land, waves of
emerald that rose and fell with the gentle hills. Patches of blue-green spruce
amidst the pines looked like old scars upon the earth’s emerald hide. The girl
wrapped her arms around his foreleg, trembling against him. She screamed a few
frightened obscenities filthy enough to impress the dragon, but to his pleasant
surprise she soon calmed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In
fact, before long she went so utterly silent the dragon thought she must have
passed out. He lowered his head to peer at her, only to find her wide-eyed and
awed, watching the world drift by beneath them. Galvarys saw not a trace of
fear on her face. Her grip upon his foreleg slowly relaxed until she just hung
in his grasp. Galvarys could not tell if she trusted the dragon not to drop his
new servant, or if the fulfillment of some grand dream was enough to overwhelm
her better judgment. For a brief moment, a strange sort of guilt tugged at his
heartstrings. Just one heartstring, though. This girl really did want him to
take her flying. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
do you think?” The dragon asked her before turning his attention to the
horizon. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
think you’re an arrogant ass who deserves a swift kick in the scaly testicles!”
The girl punched his foreleg to make her point, but not so hard as to make the
dragon consider dropping her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Her
spirited threat made Galvarys laugh. “You’d never dare! But they’re not scaly,
and that’s not what I meant.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
know!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
pinned his ears back against his head, wondering what statement she was replying
to. “What do you think--”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Beautiful!”
The girl cried out, her voice awash in glee and filled with reverence for what
she saw slipping by so far beneath her. “It’s beautiful.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
know,” the dragon said, grinning. He glanced down at her again. Wind roiled
beneath him at the end of each wing beat, buffeting her dress and her crimson
hair. “Be a good wench, and I’ll let you enjoy this view more often!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Keep
calling me that and you’ll find out how daring I can be, Dragon!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon snorted, flaring his spines. The girl just glared back at him till he
lifted his head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
yes, Dragon.” The girl called up to him. “Act angry. You wouldn’t ask for
courage if you didn’t want a little backtalk.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
could drop you, you know.” Galvarys loosened his grip. He felt the girl tense
and wrap her arms tightly around his foreleg again. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“If
you kill me, the nobles will send you some whimpering whore too terrified to
even reply to you!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Do
not mistake appreciation for weakness,” the dragon said. He licked his nose to
better taste and smell the wind. The day was clear, but the air was tinted with
distant cold, and northern rain. Autumn would arrive soon. “I like your spirit,
but anger me and I’ll hurl you off a cliff.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Would
it not take greater strength to put up with me?” Then the girl sighed. Galvarys
felt her slump against his foreleg. “I don’t want to argue. I’m missing the
view!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
enjoy it that much hanging from my forelimb?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“The
beauty I see makes up for being carried like luggage.” The girl patted the
dragon’s forepaw as it remained curled about her midsection. “You trust me enough
to take me into your home. It is only fair I trust you not to drop me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">That
was interesting. Galvarys had spent a lot of time imagining how fun it would be
to have a servant. He could make her clean his homes, organize his treasure,
oil his scales, sing his praises in verse and song. Hell, he’d even considered
taking her to a town to tell everyone what an amazing lover he was. Given that
the humans all seemed to believe that was his intention, he may as well build
another aspect to his growing legend. Yet in all his daydreaming, not once had
he considered the dangers of allowing a human to live in his home. He’d never
thought about what they might be able to do to him while he slept. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Dragons
were difficult to slay, but even dragons had their vulnerable spots. If she thrust
a blade into just the right spot while he slumbered, he would wake only to
agony, blood, and the knowledge his life was ending. Galvarys shivered, his
scales clicking together. The girl squeaked when his body shook against her,
the crates rattled. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You…You
wouldn’t…” The dragon’s voice came out so soft it was whisked away by the rushing
wind. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Do
you live in a cave?” The girl called up to him. He glanced down. Her eyes were locked
on the earth below. The forest remained but the hills on which it spread were
growing taller and rockier. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Sometimes,”
the dragon replied. Even as he spoke his mind wandered dark, frightening
clouds. “I have several homes. One is a cave in the mountains, another is an
old fortress. That is where we are going now.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“A
fortress?” The girl looked up at him, smiling. “That actually sounds exciting.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon grunted. He swallowed the fearful lump in his long throat. “You
wouldn’t…when I’m asleep, you wouldn’t…” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
are you talking about?” The girl blinked, furrowed her brow. She looked
confused amidst whipping strands of scarlet hair. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
said I trusted you enough to take you into my home.” Galvarys crooked his long
neck, watching her as he flew. “You would not try to harm me in my slumber,
would you?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No!”
The fervor of the girl’s reply surprised the dragon. They were both silent a
moment, staring into each other’s eyes. Galvarys searched for some glimpse of
truth in her gray gaze, but the way she squinted against the wind kept her eyes
unreadable. Yet the honesty he sought shone through in her voice. “No, Dragon.
I would never try to harm you in your sleep. Nor would I let anyone else who
should find their way to your lair. Anyone who would slay even an enemy in
their slumber is a coward. And I am no coward, Dragon. You may trust me in
that.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
grunted, lifting his head without reply. He knew it might be foolish of him,
but he believed the girl. After a few breaths, the dragon tightened his grip
against her, cradling her as securely against his chest plates as he could. She
would never have to fear falling when he took her to the skies. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
fortress, much like the dragon, was smaller than Elyra expected. From a
distance it looked a rectangular collection of gray stone walls and
watchtowers. The fortress lacked the Hall Of Nobility’s extravagant golden
spires and sprawling size. Instead it featured walkways and towers with
crenelated battlements. Elyra imagined herself walking them, watching the
dragon strafe armies of so-called heroes with his fire in the distance.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
breathe fire, don’t you?” Elyra glanced up at the beast as they neared his
home. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
don’t like that phrase, but yes.” The dragon’s muscles roiled as he shifted his
wing beats. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
bent her legs at the knees. Her feet tingled. Hanging from his grasp was making
her legs go numb. “What don’t you like about it?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I cannot
breathe fire. I breathe the air, just as you do.” The dragon snorted, flaring
the spines that decorated his indigo head. “I can, however, create flames upon
exhalation.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Close
enough.” Elyra shifted again, rolling her ankles. “Will I get to see you do
that? Or will I have to wait until someone tries to kill you?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
doubt you will be present if someone is trying to kill me.” The dragon snorted.
“Later I will show you fire if you wish.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’d
like that.” She did not truly wish to see the dragon burn his enemies, but it
made for an amusing daydream. She’d rather the dragon incinerate someone than
be murdered in his slumber. “Do your enemies ever come out here to call you out
to battle?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not
here.” The dragon growled and glanced away. “Dragons are safer if they keep the
location of their homes a secret.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
licked her wind-chapped lips. She had relished their flight into the mountains.
They’d soared over spires of rock buffeted by cold winds, across gray canyons
with sheer stone walls speckled with stunted bushes. She spied ribbons of blue
water between boulder-strewn expanses that rose and fell as though the earth
itself was breathing. The land held a majestic sort of desolation that was even
more beautiful than she’d hoped. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon’s fortress sat upon a vaguely diamond-shaped mesa in the middle of a
deep, wide canyon. It looked like an island of stone large enough to fit an
entire village. All four sides of the mesa ended abruptly in sheer red and gray
cliffs that fell countless feet to the churning, rocky waters below. A narrower
section of canyon indicated the mesa might have once been connected by a land
bridge. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That’s
where you live?” Elyra called out to the dragon. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,”
the dragon said. He sounded as though Elyra’s excitement confused him. “Do mind
the edge. Without wings I don’t think you’d enjoy the dive very much.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It’s
incredible!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon circled his home. To Elyra, the mesa’s sheer cliffs looked as though God
had taken a knife to the earth and cut it away. Dark streaks and layers of moss
marked the walls where she could see water dribbling from the stone. A little
stream ran across part of the mesa before pouring over the edge, little more
than a cloud of spray by the time it hit bottom. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Some
canyon walls sloped where ancient landslides had broken down the sheer cliffs. The
stone was layered in shades of shades of gray from pale ash to nearly black.
Striations of reddish stone and crumbling sections of white, chalklike rock
decorated some slopes. Twisted, gnarled trees stuck out at odd angles. Their
roots crawled over the rock, clinging to tiny, dirt-filled crevices.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon circled once more, and then made for the front of the fortress. “I’m
going to land on my hind paws first so I can set you and your gifts down.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
tried to work some feeling back into her legs. “Alright!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
woman braced herself as the dragon swept in over the fortress mesa. The dragon
flared his wings to their full extent, cupping the air. Then he back-winged a
few times, the movement jostled Elyra and the crates. He touched his hind paws
down, and then promptly dropped Elyra onto the grass. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
crumpled as her rubbery legs gave out. The crates clattered to the ground
alongside her. The dragon touched down on his forepaws and Elyra found herself
staring up at his belly. The blue scales there were paler in color and finer in
texture, mottled with hints of black and a few faint gray scars. Some scars
were larger than others. Elyra wondered what manner of weapon had caused them,
and how close they’d come to taking his life. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon quickly stepped away from her, leaving her staring at the sky. “I don’t
like people lingering under my belly.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
don’t blame you.” Elyra pushed herself up to her knees. “You’ve a lot of
scars.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’ve
a few.” The dragon padded along a trail worn in the grass by years of
paw-falls. “Bring my gifts.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
forced her half-numb legs to obey and stood up. She wobbled for a moment, took
a few steps on shaky legs. She turned a circle, surveying the ground. The edge of
the cliff was not far. Elyra moved close enough to peer over the edge. The view
twisted her guts into painful knots. She swallowed, pressing a hand to her
belly. Flight hadn’t scared her much as she trusted the dragon not to drop her.
Yet one wrong step over this cliff and her little adventure would end in a very
long fall with a very quick stop. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Are
you coming, Girl?” The dragon called back to her, his brassy voice echoing
across the canyon. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
just let me catch my breath, please!” Elyra called back. The dragon snorted and
lashed his tail against the grass. His spines tossed sod into the air.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
gazed across the mesa. She might need an hour to walk around the entire expanse
of it, but she could bathe in its beauty without taking a step. The stony
expanse was capped with a layer of bright green grass dotted here and there
with speckles of brilliant color. Bees buzzed around a cluster of wildflowers with
orange and red blooms like tiny flames. A line of plump, blue flowers shaped
like tiny bells hung from a single green stalk that stretched up above the
grass. Birds flitted about, chasing myriad insects. A few trees marked the mesa.
There was a cluster of pines at one side, a few white-barked aspens at another,
and what looked like a lone towering oak towards the back. Soon the oak’s green
leaves would turn the color of fire before drying up and fluttering away. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
loved this place already. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
woman returned to the crates and shifted her pack. The straps were chafing her
shoulders and she was ready to cast it aside. Elyra wrapped her fingers around
the cords that bound the boxes and began to drag them through the grass. They
were heavy, but not so much that she couldn’t move them. Her arms ached but she
saw no reason to complain. After all, she needed those boxes. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon was right, she was clever. But it wasn’t because she’d tied a bunch of
boxes together. It was because she’d stuck a few cheap gifts for the dragon
inside boxes filled with her own supplies. Not that she’d brought herself
anything special. Mostly foods and some simple medical supplies, and whatever
else she couldn’t fit in her pack.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
followed the dragon to the fortress at the center of the mesa. An uneven line
of mossy, broken wooden posts pointing at odd angles was all that remained of
the wall that once ringed the fortress courtyard. Ruins of a few old wooden
outbuildings dotted the land. One was little more than a raised foundation now
shrouded by generations of emerald moss and dark lichen. Another building still
stood as a framework, and corners of old thatched roof remained intact enough
for birds to build nests beneath them. Elyra saw a few flitting in and out. A
ring of crumbling bricks marked where a well once stood. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Is
there still water in that well?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’ve
no idea.” The dragon glanced back at her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
blinked at the dragon a moment, lugging the crates behind her. Her shoulders
burned. “Do you drink water?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of
course.” The dragon growled, lowering his spiny eye ridges. “What do you take
me for, some demon spirit subsisting on the fear of children?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It’s
not out of the realm of possibility,” Elyra muttered. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
I drink water! I am as much flesh and blood as you.” The dragon lifted a paw,
and dragged unsheathed claws down the plates of his chest. “My flesh just
happens to be much better protected than yours.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Where
do you go to drink your water, then?” Elyra ignored the dragon’s boasts. “If it
is somewhere you fly to, may I come with you? I’ll need to refill my waterskins
now and then. If I may ask, would it also be possible to visit somewhere I can
bathe? Dragons may not take baths, but humans certainly do.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Do
you always prattle on this much?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Only
when I have things I need to say.” Elyra grinned at the dragon as he walked off
again. She lowered her voice. “Or when I feel like getting on the nerves of
someone irritating.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon’s frilled ears flicked. “Irritating, am I?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Uh
oh. Elyra gulped. The dragon’s hearing was better than she realized. She’d
better watch her remarks. “No, Sir. Not you, I just meant…in general. The
nobles, you see, they’re quite irritating. So I prattled on to them whenever
possible.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Nice
try.” The dragon licked his nose. “And since you brought it up, dragons are
very cleanly creatures. Part of the reason I enjoy this home is because it has
easy access to water for drinking, and bathing. Only two of my homes do.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
released the rope attached to the crates to work the aches out of her hands.
“How many homes have you got?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Four.”
The dragon arched his neck, clearly proud of that. “There is this one, my
single cavern, my cave network.” Then dragon flattened his ears, glancing away.
“And the old village.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
scrunched her face, hooking some red hair behind an ear. When her hands did not
ache so badly, she grasped the ropes and began to drag the crates towards the
fortress entrance again. “Do you know what my home has been for most of my
life, Dragon? A single cramped room, shared with twelve other women.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon turned his head towards her again, fangs glistening in the sunlight as
he grinned. “Then you’ve moved up in the world. Now you have an entire fortress
to yourself, shared only with a legendary dragon.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
found the dragon’s grin infectious. She’d happily spend her days sleeping on
the floor if it meant an entire fortress to herself with only a single creature
telling her what to do instead of a dozen. Elyra found she liked the idea of
being the minion of a legendary dragon. The sort of beast remembered through
the ages in terrifying tales. Maybe she’d even be remembered alongside him.
Better to be recalled as the minion of a grand villain than some forgotten
whore in a noble’s bed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’re
not legendary yet,” Elyra said as she approached the entrance to the fortress.
“But perhaps I can help with that.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
tilted her head back, peering up at the fortress. In some places the outer
walls were so shrouded by layers of moss and lichen that it was hard to tell
the building was even built of stone. It was as though the earth was slowly
reclaiming something long since abandoned by man. In a way, the fact the dragon
now lived here only bolstered that idea. Wicked or not, dragons were probably
still closer to nature than mankind.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Despite
nature’s claim, the fortress remained remarkably intact and sturdy. Its walls
towered over the dragon, let alone Elyra. The moss that cloaked its lower
levels gave way in the higher, wind-swept reaches. Weathered, gray stone towers
jutted from the corners of the place. Wooden bridges that once spanned the
towers lingered as wooden remnants. Battlements lined stone walkways along the
top of the walls. Some of the crenellated blocks had toppled to the earth.
They’d long since been overgrown and marked the ground as little more than
bulges beneath the grass and moss. Empty holes like dead eyes marked the walls
where windows once lay. A few still had broken panes of old glass or moldering
shutters. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">An immense,
gaping archway rose where massive entry doors once stood. Rusted hinges were
still embedded in the stone on either side of the entryway, but there was no
sign of the doors. Scalloped edges trimmed the stone archway. Runic marks were
carved into the stone all around the entry. Elyra had never seen such symbols before.
Probably the lost language of some empire long since conquered. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
followed the indigo and black dragon through the entryway. She paused to put a
hand upon the carved stone. It felt cold, and ancient. She could nearly hear
the whispers of time-silenced voices echoing forever from within the runes. It
was an almost mystical moment as she…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Are
you going to come inside or are you going to fondle that rock all day?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">At
least it was until the dragon spoiled it. Elyra shook her head, red tresses swishing
around her face. There would be plenty of time to explore this fortress and let
her imagination roam after she settled in. Maybe she’d explore the place in the
moonlight while the dragon slumbered. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Though
the entryway was more than large enough for the dragon to pass through, Elyra
wondered how much of the fortress the dragon could access. She doubted the
average door and hall were as large as those in the entry. If the dragon got on
her nerves she’d just slip off into some lost corridor he could not follow her
into.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
suppose dragons don’t have a need for a door, do they.” Elyra called after the
dragon. Her voice bounced off the walls and followed him into the central
chamber. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon’s voice rolled over her in reply, magnified as it reverberated. “Not
generally. In the winter I hang blankets and things around the entry to keep
out the cold.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
nodded. That made sense. She doubted dragons cared much for privacy. And it
wasn’t as though his enemies could reach him all the way out here. Whatever
bridge must have once spanned the canyon had long since collapsed into it. That
was disquieting. She hoped the whole place wasn’t about to crumple into the
waters below. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
tried to keep from thinking about it as she dragged the crates deeper into the
entry hall. The wood grated against the uneven stone floor. A few weeds and
thistles sprung up through cracks in the stone floor tiles. The air inside was
still but pleasant. Perhaps the stone walls kept the air from ever growing too
hot or too cold. She sniffed a few times. It did smell a bit of must and…was
that dragon? It was an unfamiliar scent, sort of mysterious and reptilian like
some dark, primal forest. It was not unpleasant but the place could do with a
bit of airing out. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">She
glanced back the way she’d came, still wondering how stable this mesa was. “Was
there…” She bit her lip. “Was there ever a bridge? To the other side of the
canyon?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Part
of one.” The dragon flexed his wings in what Elyra assumed was some kind of
amused shrug. “I tore it out and tossed it into the river.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
laughed. “I’ve only just met you, and that already sounds...” Something clinked
against the stone when Elyra kicked it. She glanced down. A single golden coin
lay upon the floor. Her breath caught. That coin alone was more money than
she’d ever had in her pocket all at once. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes?”
The dragon snorted, scratching his neck with a wing tip. “Sounds like…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Something
you’d say,” Elyra murmured. She released the rope binding the crates, and
crouched down to pick up the coin. She rose and walked into a patch of
sunlight. The coin was quite scuffed, reducing the face embossed upon it to an
unrecognizable blob. The color was clear. “This is gold.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon stared at her for a moment, spines wavering. “Yes, it is.” Then he
thrust his paw in the air. “So is that.” He flared a wing, pointing elsewhere.
“And that.” Then he flicked his tail around. “And that. And that. And those. If
you like that coin, Girl, you should come and see the rest of it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
hurried into the central chamber. The room was immense and made a fitting
dragon’s lair. Marble columns carved with elegant, spiraling vines stretched
several stories from the floor up to the vaunted arches spanning the ceiling.
Even with the columns Elyra was sure the dragon could have stood in the center
of the room and spread his wings as far as they’d go without so much as
brushing stone. A raised dais at one end of the room likely once held some seat
of authority. A bit of diffused, blue-gray light shone into the room from
sources Elyra could not see.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Nor
did she care to look at anything but the dragon’s treasure. For some reason
she’d expected all his tributes to be placed in the form of an immense pile of
coins and other treasure upon which the beast slept at night. Instead, he
seemed to have scattered it to every corner he could find. A haphazard pile of
crates and boxes was stacked against one wall, right next to a row of wooden
chests with iron bindings. Coins overflowed one box and were strewn all across
the floor. Another box was filled with goblets made of gold and silver, while
yet another was stuffed to bursting with clothing made of fine silk. In another
section of the room lay an entire pile comprised only of battered shields and
scuffed sections of old armor. A long shelf spanning one part of the room was
covered with a collection of various glittering jewels. It went on and on, every
section of the room held part of the dragon’s hoard.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“My
God, Dragon!” Elyra’s eyes bulged in such wonder that they nearly cracked her
skull. “I’ve never seen such wealth!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
thought you worked for nobles?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
laughed so hard she doubled over. When she caught her breath, she straightened,
rubbing her aching ribs. “You think they’d trust me to even peek through the
doorway of their treasure room? I’d have pocketed whatever I could before
they’d even blinked.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh?”
The dragon’s silver eyes focused on the coin she still held in her hand. “You’d
better not consider…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
cut him off by tossing the coin to clink against its many brethren on the
floor. “Stealing from you wouldn’t do me any good, Dragon. Not like I could go
anywhere with it. If I was to steal from the nobles I’d have used it to find
myself a better life. But I’ve already done that. I’ll tell you what I’m hoping
for, though.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon pulled his head back, his neck curling into an S. “What is that?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That
someday you’ll allow me to demand my own treasure.” Elyra tried to hold back
her grin at that idea, but found it marching across her lips despite her best
efforts. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
want to demand your own treasure?” The dragon’s silver eyes widened, his spines
all lifted halfway from his head, ears swiveling forward. To Elyra, it looked
like the sort of expression of wonder he might make when he first set eyes upon
a chest piled high with gold. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Absolutely.”
Elyra smirked at the dragon, waving her hand in the air. “Directly from the
nobles. They don’t want my people around? They don’t want to give me anything
but servitude? Fine. We’ll see how they like it when I show up on a dragon’s
back, and demand their gold! And something nice to wear. And someone to write
your legend down in verse.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon licked his nose a moment, cocking his head. “…Verse?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
like a song.” Elyra roamed the chamber, then crouched next to a box near the
entryway. She coiled her fingers around a golden goblet. Elyra tipped it to her
lips, imagining what it would be like to drink from something like this the way
Atrius did. “You want to be a legend, isn’t that what you said?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“More
than anything,” the dragon said, curling his tail. “Legends are never
forgotten.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
waggled the goblet at the dragon. “Then you’ve got to help people remember you
for more than just stealing treasure. Having bards sing your praises would
certainly help.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon cocked his head, watching her. “Why would you wish to help me achieve
this?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Because,
Dragon.” Elyra stood back up. She felt a strange sort of elation to be here, in
this place, talking with a dragon. “If they remember you as a legend, they’ll
remember me as well.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
do not recall any tales that mention the legend’s wench.” The dragon snorted,
tossing his head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
came to a stop. That word made her set her jaw. Anger heated her face as she
shook the goblet at him. “Call me that again, and I’ll throw this at your
head.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon stared at her. Elyra glared right back at him. She hefted the drinking
vessel in her hand, watching him. She could see the clockwork grinding behind his
silver eyes as he weighed her threat. The dragon flared his wings, his tail
spines thumped against a fur lying behind him. He flexed his front paws, black
claws unsheathed. He was going to say it. He was going to say it again, wasn’t
he. She could see it in his eyes. The dragon didn’t believe her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Wench.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
word barely left the dragon’s tongue before Elyra hurled the golden goblet at
his head. She put all she had into it, quite intent on denting either the
goblet or the dragon’s skull, whichever proved to be softer. The dragon yelped
in surprise, silver eyes nearly popping out of their sockets. The beast dropped
himself to the floor just in time, and the goblet sailed harmlessly over him to
clang off the far wall. Then the dragon very slowly lifted his wedge-shaped
head, staring at her. The look of slack-jawed, flat-spined shock on the
dragon’s face lingered till the dragon coiled, sprang, and charged her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
wanted to scream, but all she managed was a squeak. Instincts told her to run,
but her heart told her to stand her ground even as it hammered at her sternum.
She balled her hands up into fists, squeezed her eyes shut and grit her teeth. If
the dragon meant to kill her, she’d not give him the satisfaction of running
like frightened prey. Elyra just hoped he’d do it quickly. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When
the sound of the dragon’s paws against coins and stone ceased, Elyra felt his
hot breath wash across her face. She slowly opened her gray eyes and found the
dragon’s nose inches from her own. She forced herself to meet the beast’s gaze.
With his spiny frills all flared out around his horned head, the dragon looked
even more intimidating than usual. Yet his face was also more expressive than
she’d realized. In addition to his frills, spines and ears, all the tiny, pebbly
scales across the rest of his face held more expression and mobility than she
thought. His nostrils flexed a few times. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You,”
the dragon said, breath billowing over her. It was not the most pleasant breath
she’d ever experienced, but she’d been made to kiss nobles who smelled fouler.
“Are quite brave.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.”
Elyra tried to sound as though she were stating a fact, not agreeing with a
terrifying dragon. “You asked for courage.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So
I did.” The dragon remained perfectly still save for the movements of his
breathing. “I have never met a human with your kind of courage before. It
fascinates me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
swallowed, then licked her chapped lips. “My kind?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
have met men who claim to be courageous as they seek to slay dragons. To slay
me.” The dragon’s spined tail began to twitch behind him, each twitch a little
harder than the last. If the dragon’s voice held any more acidic derision, his
words would fall hissing to the floor. “They come to find us, to murder us. They
cover themselves in plates of metal, they arm themselves with swords and
spears. With weapons they seek to bury as deeply in our guts as they can. They
seek to bring dragons pain and death, and they call this courage. Yet those who
are not ended in battle, when they lie, bleeding, and stripped of their ruined
armor, their so-called courage flees them. They run, they crawl. The worst of
them ask for mercy.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What’s
wrong with that?” Elyra blurted out before she could stop herself. “If they ask
you for mercy you should show it! You’d want the same if you were helpless!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That
is the problem, Girl.” The dragon flared his wings to their full extent in a
startling instant. “Those who ask for mercy are the same men who would never
show it to a dragon. If their courage leaves them and they can crawl from me,
so be it. Let them tell the world of my greatness. Let it be known they were
too cowardly to let me end them. But those who plead with me for their lives?
Those are the men who never spare dragons. If I was the one bleeding, broken,
begging for my life… Yes, I would want their mercy. But no dragonslayer would
ever grant it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">He
glanced away, growling low in his throat. There was something new to that growl
she hadn’t heard before, something pained and wounded. “They never do. They are
cowards who may have skill enough to slay a dragon but lack real courage in
their hearts.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
opened her mouth, but could not find the words she sought. She reached towards
the dragon’s head with trembling fingers, but when he turned back towards her
she yanked her hand back. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“But
you, Girl,” the dragon said, a grin spreading across his muzzle. “You have more
courage in you than ten armored men. You stand before me with no armor to protect
you, no sword with which to defend yourself, and you…” The dragon turned his
long neck, glancing at the goblet that had come to rest across the room. “Hurl
things at my head for calling you names.” Then he turned his large head back
towards her, still grinning. “You do not flee my retaliation. You stand there,
bold as the rising sun on a clear day, and you face me down. That, Girl....”
The dragon lifted a paw, unsheathed a single claw, and delicately tapped her
chest with it. “Is courage.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
looked down at the dragon’s paw before he withdrew it. She managed to find a
smile somewhere inside herself, and put it upon her face. “Next time you use
that word you’ll see how courageous I can really be.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon laughed, shaking his horned head. It was a low, rumbling sound that
stuttered from his throat, but it was clearly a laugh. “What will you do the
next time I call you that?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
swallowed. She wasn’t sure if the dragon was testing her, jesting with her, or
simply curious. “Call me wench again, and I shall kick you in the balls, Dragon.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">To
her surprise, the dragon only laughed harder. He took a few steps away from her
as if finally ready to give her some room to breathe again. “A bold threat
indeed. I doubt even you would dare to do that to a dragon.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
think not?” Elyra tilted her head, grinning at the dragon. “Test me then.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not
just yet.” The dragon turned, and began to walk back towards the center of his
chamber. Elyra noticed he tucked his tail a little this time. “It would be a
shame to have to kill something so courageous.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
took a few steps after the dragon. When he wasn’t looking, she took a deep
breath and held it till her lungs burned. She felt as though she’d cheated
death there for a few very exciting moments. She knew she was pressing her luck
with the dragon, yet at the same time the dragon seemed to be pushing her to do
just that. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Does
that mean you’re starting to like me?” Elyra called out to the dragon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
haven’t killed you yet, have I?” The dragon glanced back at her with a grin.
“Come along. I’ll give you the tour.” </span></div>
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<![endif]-->The Wilder Landshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09024638755887735262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3106716999918755903.post-58068588077298279452014-11-23T13:57:00.001-08:002014-11-23T13:57:57.586-08:00Chapter Five<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Chapter
Five</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">As
far as Galvarys was concerned, not killing the girl for throwing a goblet at
him was the greatest compliment the dragon could pay her. He already liked the
girl a little. Her behavior reminded him of a female dragon he once knew. He
liked female dragons. They were courageous, bold, looked beautiful, smelled
delightful, and felt even better. This girl, well, she was courageous at least.
The fact she dared to throw a goblet at him was so impressive that Galvarys
didn’t even find it insulting. Not very insulting, anyway. Standing up to his
charge was even more impressive.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">If
she truly wished to help him become a legend, he was happy to toss a bit of
treasure her way. It seemed like suitable reward for ensuring his memory would
echo through the ages. The dragon padded through his collection chamber towards
the hallway at the back. The doorway there was not as large as the entry arch.
Galvarys had to squeeze his wings tighter against himself than he did in his
youth. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“This
way, Girl.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
have a name, you know.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon chuckled in his throat. “As do I.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl put a hand upon his tail in the hallway. Galvarys could easily wrench his
tail from her grasp, but chose not to when she spoke up. “Do you wish to know
my name? I should love to know a dragon’s name. If you’d prefer me to call you
by some title I will, but I’d rather know your name.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“We
do not give our names to humans lightly.” Galvarys unsheathed a few claws,
tapping them on the stone floor. “Our names are important to us. There was a
time, when I warred with men, that I simply called myself The Wrathful as I
struck them down. Later, after the truce, I took to calling myself The Azure
Wrath. Sounded more memorable. Do the villagers call me that?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl traced a few fingers along the curved length of one of his tail spines.
“Actually I think they just call you ‘The Dragon’.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What?”
Galvarys jerked his head up in surprised irritation, only to bang it against
the ceiling. “OW!” Galvarys pulled his head back down and pressed a paw to his
suddenly throbbing skull. He heard the girl cough and stutter behind him. It sounded
as though she’d jammed her whole fist into her mouth to keep from laughing. The
dragon shook off the pain and the ringing in his ears. “That is not befitting
of a legend. Have they not picked up upon my frightening moniker?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not
that I heard. You can tell them to start using it during your next visit.” The
girl’s fingers wandered the scales of his tail a moment, then she patted it.
“Are you going to call me Girl all the time?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
shall call you whatever I like, even wen--” Then the dragon snapped his jaws
shut. Given that she was standing just behind him and he’d paused in a narrow
hallway, it wasn’t a good time for him to test her resolve. Or her foot. “Very
well, Girl. What is your name?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
is yours?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“This
isn’t a riddle.” The dragon grumbled, rubbing his head with his paw again. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Is
your head alright?” Was that genuine concern he heard, or was it just
well-feigned? “I’ve some salve in my pack if you’re bleeding.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Dragons
do not bleed that easily.” Galvarys snorted, then checked his paw pad for blood
anyway. Finding none, he set his paw back down. “I’m fine. This way.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
took a step forward, and the girl grabbed one of his tail spines. Her voice
held a little more fire this time. “I’d like to know your name, first.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Fine.”
The dragon flared his spines, smirking. “You may call me Magnificent.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’ll
call you Magnificent if you wish but I’d rather use your name.” The girl
released the dragon’s spine. She squeezed up alongside his tail base and set her
hand upon his hind leg. “If it makes it easier for you, consider it reward for
my courage. I’ve spent my life calling people Lord this, and Master that. It’d
make me happy just to be allowed to use your name. I promise to never speak it
aloud inside your villages.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">My</i> villages?” The dragon grinned to
himself.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“They
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">are</i> yours, aren’t they?” The girl
gave the broad scales on the outside of his hind leg a tentative rub. “You
protect them, they give you tribute. They’re practically sheltered under your wing.
I’d say that makes them yours.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
snorted. The girl might just be trying to flatter him, but he agreed. “Let me
get out of this hallway, so I can turn and look at you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon padded forward into the room serving as his sleeping chamber. Once clear
of the hallway, he turned around to face the girl. He flared his black-marked
wings, hiding everything behind indigo walls so that she could only focus upon
him. He settled himself upon his haunches, staring down at the girl. The light
here was dim yet her gray eyes stood out like faint stars. Red hair hung about
her face in frozen waves. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
want to know my name?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.”
The girl smiled up at him, then gave him a respectful bow of her head. “If you
are so willing.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“When
I have given my name to humans in the past, it was usually so they knew so who
was about to slay them.” He’d met few humans he felt deserved to know his name
beyond their dying moments. Those who sought to end him with pain and steel in
his belly, to put his head on a pike in the name of some God or king. They
should know the name of the dragon who ended their miserable lives. This girl
was different, and Galvarys decided she should be one of the rare exceptions.
“Knowing my name is a fitting reward for your courage.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I think
it is, if my words mean anything to you.” The girl fidgeted with her dress, but
stared right back into the dragon’s eyes. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Put
your hand upon my chest.” The girl hesitated but soon splayed her fingers
across his chest plates. Her touch felt warm, and soft. “Do you feel my heart
beating?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl did not pull her hand or her eyes away. She nodded.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
feel the heartbeat of Galvarys the Wrathful.” The dragon growled low in his
throat for emphasis. “I am eldest of Ayvyrial, herself youngest-hatched of
Ayvyaranys. I was sired by Galvatak, The Burning Shadow, sired in turn by
Garkoryl, who is it told was sired by Ravarynak himself, Singer Of The Stars
and Guider Of Flame for our long-lost regal clan. I am the last blood of the
royal clan, the last flame to protect our home, and my wrath is immeasurable
and endless. I am Galvarys.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl’s eyes grew ever wider as Galvarys spoke. She seemed fittingly impressed
with his lineage despite having no way to know who those dragons were. Though
he’d delivered variations of that speech to dying dragonslayers, he found this courageous
girl a more fitting audience. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank
you for telling me, Galvarys.” She smiled at him. “My name is Elyra. My
mother’s name was Ahlya. I never really knew my father aside from an early memory
or two, and my ancestry is spread amongst the old tribes who once freely
wandered this land. If you ask the average person back in the city, they’d tell
you our people were little more than muddle-blooded nomads. But I like who I
am, even if I’m a mutt.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon smiled back at her, slowly pulling his wings in. “Mutt?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Mutt.
It means of mixed breeding.” Elyra worked her hands through her hair, sighing.
“Usually it’s used for stray dogs without an ounce of identifiable bloodline.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Ah.”
The dragon rose back to his paws, grinning. “Perhaps we share this. In truth,
my father spun many tales whenever he visited us in my youth.” He watched Elyra
for a moment then turned away. “Most of them were lies. I suspect he made those
names and titles up as a way to get under my mother’s tail. Nonetheless, I am
glad to let them spill off my tongue to deserving ears.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And
I’m glad to have heard them.” The girl sounded genuine. Galvarys appreciated
that. “Does it really matter if he made them up? You’re certainly the most
regal beast I’ve ever seen, regardless of whose blood flows in your veins.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank
you.” Galvarys smiled. His heart swelled and his ego returned in a prideful
flood. He arched his neck, flared his wings and raised his spines to their full
extent. The dragon enjoyed showing himself off for a captive audience. “I am
magnificent, aren’t I.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Less
so when you’re the one saying it, but yes.” Elyra laughed. Galvarys saw himself
reflected in her gray eyes. “You are.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon puffed out his chest, spined tail flicking. This was new. He could get
used to showing off for someone appreciative. It was going to be nice to have a
servant girl around. Even though she brushed off his Majestic Dragon Show to
look around the room he’d led her into. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Is
this where you sleep?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">He
turned away from the hallway, gazing around the room. While not as large as the
grand chamber in which he kept a good portion of his treasure collection, it
was still one of the larger rooms in the fortress. Gentle blue light saturated
the air, pouring from hidden alcoves within the stone walls. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon’s bed was an immense pile of softness and warmth. The pile was made up
of all manner of blankets, cushions and pillows, bolts of silk and cloth, clothes,
cloaks, and various types of tanned animal furs and hides. The dragon’s bedding
once took up a single corner of the room but over the years had spread and
spilled across the floor until it took up most of the chamber. Much as the
dragon himself had grown until his sleeping chamber was not near as spacious as
it once was. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“This?”
The dragon waved his paw at the pile. “You’re asking if this is where I sleep?”
He shook his head, snorting. “No. This is just where I collect my soft things.
Of course this is where I sleep. What did you expect, a giant bed?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
girl crouched down to pick up a circular, golden-toned pillow. Bright yellow
tassels hung from it like streamers of limp sunlight. “I thought you’d sleep on
a big pile of gold and treasure, actually.” She hugged the pillow to herself. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why
would I sleep on gold and treasure?” The dragon shook his head, growling.
Humans and their rumors. “Do you have any idea how uncomfortable that would
be?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thought
it might feel nice against all those scales.” The girl hugged the pillow a
little more, then scrunched her face, and set it down. “Smells a bit off.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon stretched his wing forward, scratching near his ear with a wingtip
talon. “You thought wrong. And my pillows do not smell foul.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
didn’t say foul,” the girl said, laughing. “It just smells like it’s sat in a
cave for too many years without a wash.” She crossed the room, grinning. “Oh!
There’s more treasure.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
watched the girl wade through some blankets and furs to reach a few poorly
constructed wooden chests along one of the walls. “Of course there is. The
villages have been gifting me tribute for quite a few years now, and before
that I used to steal treasure. Sometimes I still do.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why?”
Elyra glanced up at him as she crouched before one of the chests. “Can I open
this?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Go ahead,”
the dragon said. He twisted his head to give his wingtip a few licks, then
folded his wing back against his body. “I stole it because it’s fun, because
humans don’t deserve it, and because wealth brings status. And treasure is
often shiny.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Shiny?”
Elyra quirked a brow, grinning. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
like things that shine and sparkle.” The dragon snorted, unsheathing his claws.
He ran them against an old elk hide, drawing little lines through the fur.
“What of it?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Nothing,”
Elyra shrugged. “Humans like that, too. You should see some of the elaborate
jewelry the nobles buy their wives.” She opened the chest, tilted her head back
and forth as she peered inside. “Nothing shiny in here, though.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What’s
in that one?” Galvarys padded across the ocean of softness enveloping the floor
to peer into the chest. Inside were a series of antique wooden plates, each
inlaid with designs of darker wood. Each was also carved with a unique series
of runes. “Ah, yes. I got those a few years ago from the Village of Rings.
They’re ancient relics. They’re quite valuable.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
gave him a strange gesture, lifting only one eyebrow. “Are they?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
found himself trying to copy the gesture. He lifted a single eye ridge, but in
the process also perked his ear and flared a few of his spines. “Yes. They had
no gold at the time and asked if I’d accept other items of value.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And
they gave you a trunk of dinnerware.” Elyra grinned, closed the trunk and rose
back to her feet. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon snorted. “When you put it that way, it sounds as though it’s worthless.
But you see, Elyra, things that are of historical worth can also be quite
valuable.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
smiled even wider at the dragon. She must have appreciated his explanation.
“That’s true, Galvarys.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
woman shook her head for some reason as she paced about the room. She stared at
the walls, strode from corner to corner, and looked up at the ceiling. Finally
she seemed to hone in on something, walking to one of the walls where light shone
from a hidden alcove. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Where
does this light come from?” She peered into the alcove, squinting against the
blue light. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Ah,
let me show you.” The dragon padded over to join her. He nudged her aside then
pushed his foreleg into the alcove. “There’s a hole here, deeper than it looks.
And this is inside.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon pulled out a lump of misshapen crystalline stone a bit like a glassy,
deformed egg. He held it out to the woman in his paw. Faint blue light shone
from the thing. “You see? It’s like a fallen star.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That’s
beautiful!” Elyra reached out for it then glanced up at the dragon to make sure
she had his permission. He nodded, and she took it in both hands, murmuring to
herself. “S’cold. Thought it would be warm. It seems as though it glows even
more brightly when it’s placed in that hole.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It
does.” The dragon flicked his wing towards another hole across the room. “They
are in several rooms of the fortress.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“There
must be some mirrors or something in there to concentrate the light. It’s
ingenious, really. Is it magic?” Elyra tilted her head back to peer up at the
dragon. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
snorted, and plucked the stone from her grasp. “I doubt it. It’s just an old
stone that glows. There were a few here when I moved in, so I knew what to do
with them when I found others later on.” He placed the stone back inside the
deep alcove. “At night if I want it to be darker I just put something over the
holes.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“All
I ever had was a dingy lamp,” Elyra said. She grinned at the dragon a moment.
“I doubt even the nobles have a light source that impressive.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">With
the dragon’s permission, Elyra started to explore the portion of the dragon’s
collection located in his sleeping chambers. There were more crates and boxes
with various treasures, a few piles of old pouches of cloth and leather, stacks
of books, a chest filled with more books and old scrolls, a rolled up tapestry,
and other assorted trinkets and treasures. Elyra crouched down, thumbing
through a stack of old, leather bound books. Then she stood back up, spotted
something sticking out of the end of the rolled up tapestry. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Is
that a sword?” The woman peered down at the hilt. “I saw you had some in the
other room, too.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.
I keep that one in there because…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">By
then Elyra was already drawing the sword from the tapestry. It caught for a
moment and she yanked it free with both hands. When it came loose the weight
surprised her. Elyra lost her balance and swung the blade wildly through the
air, narrowly missing the end of Galvarys’ indigo nose. The dragon yelped and
scrambled back, then hissed and snapped his jaws. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Careful
with that!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Sorry!”
The color drained from Elyra’s face till she looked like a spirit draped in
fire. “Sorry! Sorry! I’m sorry!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
I heard you the first time.” The dragon snarled. “Put that back.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of
course.” The woman knelt before the rolled up tapestry. “I didn’t hurt you, did
I?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No.”
Galvarys snorted, crossing his eyes to try and see the end of his nose. When
Elyra wasn’t looking, he pressed his paw there and glanced at his pads to make
sure no crimson marked the mottled gray surface. “You did not. As I was saying,
I keep it in there because it is sharp.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Never
held a real sword before.” Elyra hefted the thing while resting on her knees.
“It’s heavy. Really heavy.” She worked her hands across the hilt. The old leather
that wrapped it was cracked and dry. Galvarys stared down at the blade,
growling under his breath. Old, rust-colored stains still marked it. Elyra
noticed them. “Is that…what I think it is?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It
is blood.” The dragon glanced away, his growl rising. Memories of agony and
terror flickered behind his eyes. “Put it back.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Is
it…” Elyra carefully worked the tip of the sword into the center of the rolled
up tapestry. “Is it your blood?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys’
spines pinned back against his head. The dragon’s stomach wrenched, and his
voice tightened. “I said put it back, Girl.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Right
away.” With a grunt of effort, she shoved the sword back where she’d gotten it.
Then she stood up and dusted her hands off, trying to offer the dragon a smile.
“Would you be willing to show me the rest of your home now?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
shook himself, his scales clicking together. He rumbled in his chest, closed
his eyes for a moment. “I did promise you a tour, did I not? Just do not go
putting your hands on things that do not belong to you without my permission.
Some things are best left forgotten.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of
course.” Elyra bowed her head. “I’m sorry.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So
you said.” The dragon lifted a paw, rubbing his head just between his ridged,
black horns. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Though
Galvarys had not opened his eyes, he heard the shuffling through the blankets
and furs. Her scent grew as she neared him. Then he felt her hand against the
scales of his neck. Her touch was warm, and soft. She ran her hand back and
forth against his scales, stroking him. She seemed as unsure about comforting
the dragon as he was about accepting that comfort. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
meant I’m sorry for bringing up…” She gave his neck another slow stroke. “Whatever
I brought up. I just thought it was some old sword. I know you don’t like
prattling, so I’ll shut up.” Silent, the girl rubbed his neck. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Your
touch is nice,” the dragon said, murmuring. He took a few deep breaths, each
one untwisting another pained knot from his belly. “It was just an old scar,
anyway. Your apology is accepted.” Galvarys cleared his throat with a growl,
opened his eyes in time to see the girl closing her mouth. Whatever she was
about to say, she must have thought better. “Come along. I’ll show you the rest
of this place.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">--------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">An
old scar. Elyra watched the dragon as he padded across the room filled with
more bedding than she’d ever seen in her life. He seemed eager to leave this
room and that sword behind. The dragon bore many scars across his indigo and black
hide yet Elyra doubted this one was visible.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
grit her teeth. Some great unseen wound lay beneath all that natural armor. The
pain shone through in the wounded growl she heard earlier. It flickered in his
eyes, a silver ocean of old pains and memories wrapped around that blood-stained
sword. Elyra wondered if the dragon hid the blade not because it was sharp, but
because he could not bear to look upon it any more than he could bear to part
with it. There was something buried in that dragon’s heart, something coiled
and cold that she doubted he would ever share. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Are
you coming, Girl?” The dragon called back from the far doorway, his tail spines
clacked against the stone when he flicked his tail. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
Galvarys,” Elyra said. She pinched the bridge of her nose, and shoved her
thoughts back into the darkened corner of her mind they came from. It was not
her place to pry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
forced herself to focus on her surroundings. There were more bedclothes in this
room than she imagined there to be in the entirety of the Hall of Nobility. The
animal furs were of exquisite quality. Many of the more colorful, softer blankets
were the sort of things covering the beds the nobles used to toss her into. The
sun-pillow she’d hugged felt like luxury itself. Perhaps if the dragon allowed
her, she’d give it a quick wash and use it for her own pillow.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">As
she crossed the room, she glanced at the chest filled with wooden plates.
Ancient? She’d seen more valuable wooden plates with better craftsmanship for
sale on a street corner. She wondered how much of the dragon’s hoard came from
tributes, and what came from things he’d stolen before the truce with the
villages. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
was tempted to tell Galvarys that half his tributes were worthless. She might
have if she hadn’t feared he’d burn down a whole village in his wrath. Perhaps
it would be safer for all involved if she just worked to ensure that the dragon
received only valuable tributes from now on. The way Elyra saw it, Atrius,
Pigeon Man and all their lackeys should pony up the coin if they wanted the
dragon to protect their roads. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“We
should get you some shelves,” Elyra said as she walked up behind the dragon.
She brushed her fingers over the scales of his tail again, hoping to take his
mind off whatever painful memories she’d brought up. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
have shelves,” he said, snorting. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Better
shelves. We could put them all along your walls. Help you organize your hoard.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
froze, then slowly lifted his head. He twisted his neck to peer back at her
over his right wing. “It is not a hoard. It is a collection. I am not a
hoarder.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
patted the base of his tail, smiling. “Collection, then. Wouldn’t it be better
if you could gaze upon more of it at once, or find a particular item without
having to randomly dig through piles of gold and treasure?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That
would be…nice.” The dragon licked his nose, and then padded forward again. “I
shall put you in charge of that.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’d
be happy to help organize your…” Elyra picked her word carefully. “Collection.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
led her through a room the dragon barely fit in. He grunted as he squeezed
through it, wings tight to his body. Then he went down a short hallway around a
bend. Elyra found it curious that so many hallways were large enough to fit the
dragon, even if he had to squeeze himself in. Before she could bring it up,
Elyra heard the sound of burbling water up ahead. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon emerged into another large room near the back of the fortress. Sunlight
spilled through high, broken windows. The air was tinted with the smell of
mineral-rich water. A fountain stood at the head of the room. Water burbled
over a series of curved, white stone ledges. To Elyra the heavily scalloped
ledges looked like a stack of alabaster scales, each larger than the one above
it. At the bottom of the ledges there was a deep, sunken basin where the water
collected. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
water drained out at one end and ran through channels in the floor. Both the
basin and the channels were tiled in the same snow-colored stone as the
fountain. At the far end of the room was a smaller basin where the water
swirled above the piping that drained it out of the building. A few large archways
in the walls led to other corridors, while another led outside. A bit of warm,
fresh air blew in through the open doorway.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“There’s
a little stream out back,” the dragon said, sweeping a wing towards the back
wall. “There’s a ruined wooden building built atop it. Probably had latrines
there. Feel free to use it for the same purpose. Just don’t go all over the
floor in there.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
laughed and shook her head. Her red hair swished back and forth. “Why on earth
would I…” She caught her hair, and stuck some of it behind her ears. “Never mind.
Where do you go when you have the need?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon stared at her a moment, then grunted. “Outside, towards the end of the
stream. It drains off the edge of the cliff, flushes everything out.” He
flicked his muzzle towards the white-ledged fountain. “I drink from there,
where the water burbles up fresh. I bathe down there.” Galvarys indicated the
deep, sunken pool beneath the fountain. “The water flow keeps everything
clean.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
nodded, following along with the dragon’s indications. “So this fountain must
have been built atop a spring.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon padded over to the fountain. “That is my assumption. Unless you believe
in magic water.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">He
lowered his head. Elyra watched him drink. He flicked and curled his tongue
against the water but also pushed his muzzle against it, half-slurping it down.
The dragon had large jaws, but he also had more mobile lips across his teeth
than she expected. The agility of his tongue surprised her. It must have helped
him speak the human tongue.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
hopped across the narrow section of the water channels. The white stone was
similar to the white marble back in the Hall. It probably once looked quite
beautiful though now much of it was covered in moss and slime. “I’d like to
clean this place up.” She glanced up at him a moment. “If you don’t mind,
Galvarys?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon lifted his head, snorting. Water droplets blew from his nostrils in a
fan-shaped mist. “Be my guest.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank
you.” She walked up to the opposite side of the fountain from the dragon. “I
should rather bathe in a clean tub than one covered in muck and slime.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“There’s
no muck and slime.” The dragon glared at her. Then he glanced at the edges of
the tub, his pebbly scales crinkling across his snout. “There may be a little
muck and slime.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Grinning,
Elyra reached out to let the water flowing over one of the white scalloped
ledges pour across her fingers. It felt cool. “This will be pleasant for
bathing in the summer, but in the winter it’s going to feel very cold.” Elyra
mulled it over a moment. “Do you think you’d allow me to demand a tub and stove
from your villages?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“If
you must.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon went back to drinking, and Elyra decided to do the same. She cupped her
hands beneath the flowing water, and brought it to her mouth. The first sip
earned a happy sigh. It tasted fresher and sweeter than the fetid water back
home, with the faint taste of minerals. She cupped a few more handfuls of the
stuff, gulping them all down till her thirst was quenched. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Ready
to move on?” The dragon peered at her from across the fountain. Beads of water
clung to his pebbly blue scales and dripped off his chin. The dragon turned and
flicked his tail. His spines caught the surface of the bathing pool, spraying
cool water across Elyra. “Come along.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hey!”
She yelped and jumped back, glaring at the dragon. When he laughed, she balled
up her hands into fists. “You’re lucky I don’t throw water all over your face.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
think you’ve thrown enough at my face for one day. This way.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
wiped her face off with her sleeves, hiding her grin. It was nice to know the
dragon had a playful side. She hopped over the channel and followed the dragon
into a corridor he scarcely fit through. The dragon grunted as he wriggled and
squeezed through.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
hope you’re not planning to ask me to shove your scaly ass when you get stuck.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
won’t get stuck,” the dragon muttered. Beyond the corridor was a wide stone stairwell,
and the dragon began to ascend it a few steps at a time. “Place used to be
larger.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
used to be smaller, you mean,” Elyra chuckled. As she followed the dragon up
the stairs, she looked at the stone beneath her feet. Gouges and scratches marked
each step where the dragon’s claws had marred the stone time and time again.
“I’m surprised there are this many rooms and halls you can fit in.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“They
had to make it large enough for lines of armored men carrying spears and
things, didn’t they.” Galvarys waited for her in the wide hall atop the stairs.
“Only a few more rooms to show you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
rather doubt they had many lines of armored, spear carrying men ascending the
stairwells, Galvarys.” Elyra stretched her arms out at the top stair. “I can’t
even touch the walls without moving to one side.” She peered down at the top
step. Some of the gouges in the stone looked ancient. “Are you certain you’re
the first dragon to use this place?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No,”
Galvarys said, shaking his head. “It is an old fortress. I cannot say for
certain that another of my kind did not once call it home.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“These
halls are so big!” She grinned at the dragon a moment. “Maybe dragons built
it!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“If
dragons built it, there would not be rooms I cannot fit in or hallways I cannot
squeeze through.” Galvarys coiled his tail about his hind leg. “Yet there are.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Then
perhaps they had a dragon friend who lived here with them.” Elyra peered
around, nudged her boot against the stone floor. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
growled. The sound set Elyra on edge as though she was overstepping a boundary
she didn’t know existed. “You want to know what I think?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
fidgeted with the scuffed hem of her golden dress. “Not if it makes you angry.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon glared at her over his back. He rustled his wings and uncurled his tail.
“I suspect the size of this place was to accommodate the slave laborers who
built it. Can you guess who they were?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh…”
Elyra glanced down at her sandals. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Do
you think humans brought all this stone out here atop this mesa?” The dragon waved
his paw around at the walls, bathed in the same pale blue light that was shed
in the rooms below. “If dragons lived here in the past, they did not live here
freely.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
took a breath and held it, unable to find her tongue. She could tell the dragon
she knew what it was like to be forced to work against her will, but would that
really comfort him? Did he even want comfort? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the end, Galvarys broke the silence himself. “Relax, Girl. I am not angry with
you. It is only a theory for which I have no proof. It matters not, as a dragon
controls this fortress now.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Perhaps
it was some other large, clawed creature,” Elyra said, trying to offer him an
alternative he might find more comfort in.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You
mean like a gryphon?” Galvarys flicked his tail, smirking. “I admit to being
amused by the idea of some thieving cat-bird put in chains.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
was thinking more of a friend than a slave, but something like that, yes.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Gryphons
do seem to make occasional alliances with humans,” said the dragon, padding
down the hall. His claw tips clicked against the stone floor. “If only because
you do not hunt them down with the same sort of mercilessness you hunt
dragons.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
don’t hunt anyone down,” Elyra said. Her gray eyes shone with a hint of blue
fire in the crystalline light. “I am not the sins of all of humanity any more
than you are every wicked deed a dragon has ever committed.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No,”
Galvarys said, his voice lowered a little. “I suppose you are not.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
stared at him a moment, then decided to shift the subject. “So, what rooms are
you going to show me up here?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“My
trophy collection.” The dragon flashed his fangs, grinning. “Along with what I
believe you would call my pantry.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Where
am I to sleep?” Elyra tilted her head. “Do you have a servant’s quarters?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon shook his wedge-shaped head. “Not as such. I expected you would slumber
in my sleeping chamber. However, you are welcome to sleep in any room you wish.
Be aware the rooms in which I cannot fit are likely filled with cobwebs and
rotted corpses.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s
eyes widened. Was Galvarys serious? The dragon walked off without offering any
more clues to that particular puzzle. He stopped and gestured with a paw into
another room. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“This
is my pantry.” Galvarys stuck his head through the arched doorway, his voice a
little muffled. “It is a tighter fit for me these days so I do not use it often.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
only wondered what sort of food a dragon might store until the sickly-sweet
scent of rot and spoiling meat washed across her. She covered her nose with a
hand, slipping up alongside the dragon to peer into the room. It was smaller
than his sleeping chamber, with a deer carcass sprawled and bloated in the
center of the room. Around the walls, various barrels and kegs were stacked up.
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Most
of those were tributes, the rest are stolen.” The dragon flicked the tip of his
muzzle to each one. “I’ve got rum, wine, I think that’s ale.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’ve
a rotten carcass in there is what you’ve got.” Elyra withdrew from the doorway.
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It’s
not rotten.” The dragon snorted, lifting his spines. “It is aging.” Then he
sniffed at the pantry, scrunching his muzzle. “Perhaps it’s a little rotten.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“More
than a little, Galvarys.” Elyra backed away, her eyes watering. “When the cooks
in the Hall age meat, they cut away the rot.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That’s
what I was going to do,” Galvarys muttered, pulling back as well. “They cooked
me aged meat tribute once. I thought perhaps you could do the same.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That
thing is bloated,” Elyra scurried away, trying to escape the smell. She hadn’t
noticed it at first but now that she knew it was there it seemed to follow her
down the hall like some vomit-inducing spirit. “I don’t think that’s how you
age meat.” She wiped her nose with her sleeve. “Nor do I know how to cook that
kind of food.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“But
you’re human. Don’t you all cook your food?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
gave a sigh, rubbing her forehead. “I can cook simple things, but that’s all.
Why don’t you just show me your last room?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes,
very well.” The dragon padded down the hallway, his indigo tail undulating
behind him like a black-mottled snake. He soon gestured to another arched
entryway. “This is my trophy room.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
joined the dragon to look into the next room. When she was sure it lacked any
foul aromas, she slipped inside. Fiery, golden light cast by the setting sun
poured in through a window with a few panes of glass still clinging to it.
Unlike every other room in this place, this one had order. There were no
jumbled piles or scattered items. Instead, the room was lined with shelves and
alcoves cut into the stone decorated with Galvarys’ trophies. Elyra expected to
find nothing but skulls and bloodied armor. While there were battle trophies,
many of the items were far more personal.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">One
shelf contained ancient books bound in brittle, dyed leather and far too big
for human hands. Further around were bits of what looked like thick eggshell.
There was a deer skull with broken antlers, studiously cleaned of any flesh. Along
another shelf were neatly arranged piles of scales from other dragons. Some
scales were colorful, others darker. Elyra wondered if they were from
vanquished enemies or forgotten lovers. A pair of large, golden circlets sat
near a dark leather pouch that bulged with hidden contents. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Broken
armor lined the ground on one side of the room. A crumpled helmet, a battered
and gashed cuirass, a ruined shield. Some pieces of armor had weapons with
them, a broken spear, a longbow with no string, a heavy axe. Many of the
weapons were stained with old blood. Reminders of all the men who failed to
slay Galvarys The Wrathful. After Galvarys’ speech about dragonslayers, Elyra
found little room in her heart to pity these men. Elyra felt sorry for their
families, but these men brought their fate upon themselves. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
heard claws click and scales rustle against stone as the dragon left the room.
Elyra remained behind, wondering how each trophy weighed upon Galvarys’ heart.
Elyra reached trembling fingers towards the books. Fearing the pages may fall
to pieces in her hands, she pulled back. Elyra gazed at bits of eggshell. They
looked as dried and brittle as the books. Hints of blue-gray coloration and
black spots lingered. Elyra bit her lip, and turned away. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This
room was too personal. She’d only just met the dragon. It did not feel right to
dig through his past. She certainly wouldn’t just march into the room of some
woman she just met and start reading her diary, and she would not pry into this
dragon’s life either. Not unless he was there at the time and willing to share
it with her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
left the room. The hallway was empty. Elyra set her jaw, deciding to give the
dragon a moment to himself. She took a few minutes to wander the upper hall.
Elyra found a few doorways too small for the dragon to fit through. Elyra
peered through two of them, and found even more darkness and cobwebs than she
expected. One day soon she’d take a lamp and go exploring this place. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When
some time had passed, Elyra made her way downstairs. She followed the burbling
sound of the fountain until she emerged in the bathing chamber. Elyra got a
drink to ease the sudden dryness of her mouth, then crept through the hall to
the dragon’s sleeping chamber.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s
breath caught when she saw Galvarys through the doorway. He looked weary,
weighed down with old sorrow. His wings sagged at his sides, their black-rippled
edges brushing the furs and blankets. His head hung, his spines were flat and
frilled blue ears drooped. He was staring at the sword wrapped in the tapestry.
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
shivered, her regretful heart pumped only ice. What wound had she opened when
she drew that sword? She wished she’d never touched it. Elyra watched the
dragon in silence. Galvarys scarcely moved aside from his breathing. His silver
eyes shone wet and blue in the crystalline light. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
wanted to comfort him. She knew what it was like to wish for someone to offer
the light of comfort in a moment of darkness. Then again, Elyra feared the
dragon may find her comfort meaningless. Buried beneath all that armor and ego
was a heart bound to an anchor. The weight may be heavier than any mere servant
girl could lift. Elyra wished to try just the same. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
took one step towards him before dragon glanced over. “Out of the way, Elyra.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s
shoulders sagged as she stepped aside. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon lowered his head to grasp the rolled up tapestry in his teeth. Golden
rope kept it bound as he picked it up. He brought it to the doorway, then set
it back down. Galvarys turned the tapestry to get it through the door. He
nudged it into the hallway with his snout, then glanced up at Elyra. “You have
questions?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
chewed on her lip. A dozen different questions rolled across her tongue and
caught upon her teeth. She shook her head. “None that I feel comfortable
asking.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That
makes two of us.” The dragon nudged the tapestry towards her. “Make yourself useful,
will you? Draw that sword again. Carefully this time.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
was uncertain, but she knelt at the end of the tapestry, and pulled the blade free.
It was heavy, balanced for a man with arms strengthened by a lifetime of
training. She hefted it, holding it upright in front of her face. Stains the
color of old rust marked the steel. The crossguard was a dark gray material
Elyra didn’t recognize. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Is
that…antler?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It
is horn,” the dragon said, padding past the girl. He made his way towards the
bathing chamber, calling back. “Follow me. Bring the sword.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Horn?”
Elyra followed after the dragon, carrying the sword despite the grand protest
waged by arms already tired from hauling around crates and packs. She cringed
when her mind caught up with her words. She knew just what manner of beast the
horn came from.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Beneath
the leather, the inlay is bone.” Galvarys’ voice grew quieter as he outpaced
the woman.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
pushed aside some of the frayed leather binding around the hilt. Pale, polished
bone inlay formed an emblem of a dragon’s skull. Elyra made a face. No wonder
Galvarys hated this sword. She opened her mouth, but her words died on her
lips, and she followed the dragon in silence.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon passed through an archway in the bathing chamber that led outside. The
sinking sun cast earth and dragon alike in brilliant fire. The little stream
behind the fortress looked like molten gold, and Galvarys gleamed as though
coated with the stuff. Galvarys looked as regal as she could ever imagine a
creature looking. The dragon arched his neck and lifted his head, his spiraling
horns silhouetted against the light. Galvarys flared his wings to shield his
eyes from the sun as he strode through the back courtyard. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
followed the dragon along the stream. The water tumbled over rocks and weeds.
The silver scales of tiny fish shimmered in the sunlight as they darted away
from Elyra’s shadow. When Galvarys reached the mesa’s edge, he settled down
upon his haunches, curling his tail. As Elyra came up alongside him, she saw
his tail tip hanging off the edge, spines suspended in the air. His front paws
were curled over the edge of the cliff, his black claws unsheathed and
scratching at the stone. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“For
far too many years…” the dragon said, staring into the canyon. His voice hung
in the air like thick, gray fog. “I have kept that damnable thing lying around
to remind myself…” The dragon closed his eyes. He growled in that strange,
wounded way. The sound trembled with fear, and grief. “Never mind. I am tired
of being reminded. Toss it over the edge.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Wh-what?”
Elyra stepped away from the dragon, lifting the old sword. Her eyes roamed its
surface, staring at the dry, brown stains. “Is it…yours?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not
on that one.” Galvarys turned his eyes away before Elyra could search them. He
stared at the fiery, sunset-painted canyon. “I am not the first to be hunted by
the slayers of dragons.” Galvarys’ voice softened as he waved his paw at the
canyon. “Go on, Girl. Toss it in. Carefully. If it spins and cuts you open I
doubt I can hold your guts inside for long.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
shivered. She took a few steps away from the dragon to make sure she had plenty
of room. She lifted the sword, staring at the blood-stained blade. Curiosity
seized her with burning fingers, but her question died upon her tongue like all
the others. Their trust was yet whisper-thin, and she could not ask the dragon
to spill a secret from so deep in his heart. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
took a deep breath, twisted her body, and hurled the sword off the edge of the
mesa. It toppled through the air, flashed when it caught the sunlight, and then
vanished into the shadows gathered at the bottom of the canyon. Elyra heard the
dragon let out a deep breath and whisper in a tongue she did not recognize. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This
time Elyra did not hesitate to offer the dragon comfort. She returned to him
and put her hand upon Galvarys’ shoulder. The gesture surprised him. The dragon
tensed and twisted his neck around to glare at her, spines flared. Elyra did
not shrink or pull away. Instead she stroked his shoulder, and smiled at him.
Whether her touch and words would have any meaning to the dragon didn’t matter.
She wanted to try. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It’s
alright, Galvarys.” Elyra caressed the warm blue scales of his shoulder, still
smiling. “Whatever trouble that blade brought is gone now. Whatever fear
lingers in your heart will subside. The pain will ease. It will be alright. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You</i> will be alright, Galvarys.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
stared back at her a moment. His expression softened and his spines settled
back against his head. The dragon’s eyes shone so intensely Elyra almost feared
they would burn her away. Then his pebbly blue scales crinkled as the dragon
began to smile. He nodded his spiral-horned head a single time. “Thank you,
Elyra.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
patted his shoulder. “You’re welcome.” Elyra stroked the dragon’s shoulder in
silence until he eased away from her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
padded away from the mesa’s edge. “I think I should like to hunt now. I would
offer to take you, but I cannot hunt with you hanging from my forelegs.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
could ride upon your back, if you wished.” A spring of warm hope blossomed in
the woman’s heart. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
peered back at Elyra over his wings, ears lifted. “You really enjoyed that
flight, didn’t you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It
was one of the best experiences of my entire life.” Elyra meant that in every
way. “I would be honored if you would let me fly with you again. If I could
ride upon your back the honor would be doubled.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It
is not as safe.” The dragon turned back towards her, his tail spines scything
through some grass. “If you slipped from my back I am not certain I could catch
you.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“If
I slipped from your back and plummeted to my death, I would still die happier
than I could have ever imagined as a slave to the nobles.” Elyra strode to the
dragon, holding out her hands. “I have pledged myself to you. I have shown you
my courage, I have hurled your cursed sword off a cliff and I have kept all my
many questions to myself. If you would allow it, Galvarys, I would ever so much
love to ride upon your back.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
stood still as the dragon appraised her. Her heart thundered in her chest so
loudly she worried the vibrations may cause the mesa’s edge to crumble. When
the dragon replied, her heart leapt almost as high as Galvarys himself could
take her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Very
well, Elyra. I shall allow you to ride upon my back.” Elyra literally bounced
in glee, hopping up and down. Her joy infected the dragon and left him grinning
as widely as she had yet seen. He held up his paw to hold her at bay. “Just not
now. I should like to hunt and be alone for a time.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of
course!” Elyra blurted out, starting to bow and curtsy before she caught
herself. “Whenever you wish--”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The
dragon cut her off, raising his brassy voice. “Tomorrow you shall accompany me
to the Village Of Rings.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’d
love to! Do we get to terrify any nobles?” Elyra bounced a few more times. The
dragon’s startled expression made her laugh. Then she paused. “You’re not going
to hurt anyone, are you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Terrify?
Yes. Hurt? Not unless I have to.” He waved his wing towards the fortress. “Feel
free to bathe, find a place to sleep, make yourself at home. If you are
sleeping when I return I shall try not to wake you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
walked alongside the dragon for a few paces, excited questions still bubbling
from her lips. “What about after we’ve terrified them? Will you make demands?
Oh, may <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I</i> make a demand?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
growled his amusement. He opened a wing and gently nudged her back with it.
Then the dragon glanced at her with a grin. “Yes. We shall demand a number of
hams.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Before
Elyra had a chance to ask why on earth they’d be demanding any hams, the dragon
leapt into the air. Winds gusted and swirled beneath his vast wings, her golden
dress billowed around her. Elyra twirled in place, reveling in the feel of the
wind. Elyra whirled till she was dizzy, laughter spilling from her lips even as
she tumbled to the grass. This was even better than she imagined. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">So
this was what joy felt like.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra
jumped back to her feet. She thrust her hands into the air and threw back her
head. Elyra roared to the sunset-painted skies and mountains.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys
roared back at her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Tomorrow
she would fly upon a dragon.</span></div>
The Wilder Landshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09024638755887735262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3106716999918755903.post-79820143005736655632014-11-23T13:53:00.002-08:002014-11-23T13:55:55.298-08:00Chapter Six<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Chapter Six</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys flew long after the moonlight fled the
impending dawn. The darkness was a comfort to the dragon, an ebon cloak that
helped shroud him from those who would shoot him from the skies. Despite his
truce with the Five Villages, his enemies were many. No matter what kindness he
might deign to show the villagers who dwelt upon his lands, men still tried to
slay him. Some enemies were borne of his deeds. Others hated the very blood
that flowed through his veins. There were always those who would never call a
dragon friend. To them, dragons were nothing more than evil given flesh, worthy
only of being purged from their world.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It was not Galvarys’ fault that he was bigger than
they were, or that his hide was iron compared to their soft bodies. He had not
deigned to be hatched with claws and teeth and spines, nor possessed of fire
hotter than any they could hope to kindle. Galvarys was proud to be a dragon.
He would not hesitate to use his natural gifts to defend his life and lands and
take what was rightfully his. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Why waste his time bowing his head to the humans when
they would seek to slay him anyway? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Dragons were not built for kindness. Dragons were
built for conquest, built to be remembered as legends when they were gone. It
had been far too long since this world remembered a legendary dragon. They certainly
did not remember his muddled bloodline. But they would remember Galvarys the
Wrathful. Galvarys, eldest of Ayvyrial. Galvarys, who owned all the land he
could see. Galvarys, who forged a truce with men. Galvarys, who…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Who…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Damn. He needed something else to end that. The dragon
snorted, licking his nose as he circled his home. Galvarys, who…had a taste for
ham. True, but hardly suitable to be passed along as legend. Galvarys, whose
mighty thrusts made the females moan and plead for more. Also true, but not
something humans would remember him by. Galvarys, who had a girl that hurled a
goblet at his head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Actually, perhaps he could work with that. The dragon
spoke aloud as he flew. “Galvarys, a beast so legendary even his minion was
remembered.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Yes, minion. He should start calling Elyra that. Kings
had servants. Galvarys was no king, but he was a legend. Legends had minions.
Or was that villains? Didn’t matter. Galvarys wouldn’t mind being some grand
villain in a children’s tale. So long as he was the one with the happy ending.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys did not want to die, battered and broken, at
the foot of some desolate mountain. Bleeding everywhere. Struggling for fading
breath as the humans…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys shook his head, hissing. No. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">He’d sooner fold his wings and hurl himself against
the bottom of his canyon. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys had not realized how long he’d been out until
he spotted the first hints of purple gloom upon the dark horizon. After the
dragon left Elyra he’d ventured near one of his villages and helped himself to
a few sheep belonging to some foolish old farmer. Then he’d flown a safe
distance, found himself a secluded glen, and dozed beneath the starlight. His
dreams were amorphous and when he woke he could not recall them. They’d
nonetheless left a creeping unease that oozed along his spine, and sat cold in
his belly. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon often took to flying to clear his mind.
Galvarys always enjoyed flying at night. Aside from the simple fact he felt
more secure when he was nothing but a silhouette against the stars, he loved
the peace that came with nighttime. Quiet and still, the whole world bathed in
blue-black and silver-gray. Even in the darkest nights there was scarcely a
shadow the dragon’s eyes could not penetrate.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">No wonder dragons were the greatest predator. With all
their natural gifts, they could survive in any climate they had to. Surely,
dragons were the greatest creatures in the entire world. They even lived longer
than all the lesser species. At least, they lived longer when no one murdered
them. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Their long lifespan was a blessing and a curse. If
dragons could breed faster, there might be more left soaring in the skies. But
long lives meant long life cycles. Their hatchlings grew swiftly by the
standards of dragons, but that still left them with many years of youthful
vulnerability. And caring for hatchlings left parents vulnerable too. It was a
risk a dragon did not always wish to take. Especially the males. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys snarled, baring his fangs. Galvarys
understood that fear, in a way. After all, the point of living was to stay
alive as long as possible, and ensure you were remembered. Yet was it worth
being remembered if you were only recalled as a coward? Galvarys once knew such
a coward. There was even a time he looked up to him, wished he were around more
often. That was before Galvarys realized what a festering sore of a fear-bound
liar his father was.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys hissed, pushing the thoughts aside as he
headed home. No reason to dwell on those best forgotten. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon eased his wings closer to his body,
descending as he neared his fortress. May as well curl up amidst his soft
things and get a little more sleep before the sun shattered the horizon and the
damn birds began their obnoxious chirping. Galvarys swooped in low over his
mesa and touched down upon the grass inside the old courtyard. He sniffed
around a moment, unable to find the scent of anyone besides himself and his
minion. Good. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon padded inside, glancing around his treasure
chamber. The light stones cast everything in a soothing, pale blue hue. Elyra
had moved things around. She’d swept the coins and gems from the floor into
piles that glittered and glowed in the spectral light. Elyra had also pushed
some of the more obtrusive boxes and chests out of the way where she could and
cleared a path. Looked as though she’d found a few boxes filled with clothing
and dug through them. A few garments were laid out across crates. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Peering around, Galvarys spotted the boxes Elyra
brought with her. They were all opened. Elyra herself lay near one of the
walls. She’d taken a few of the dragon’s blankets from his sleeping chamber and
spread them out across the floor. Then she’d hunkered down inside her own
weird, rolled-up blanket thing she’d brought. She’d borrowed a pillow designed
to look like the sun from his collection. Her crimson hair spilled across it in
fiery streams, tangling with its golden tassels. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Quiet as he could, he padded through the treasure
chamber towards her, intent on peering into the boxes to see what gifts she’d
brought him. Peeking inside provided more questions than answers. There were
little jars of things and bundles of dried plants. A few bars of something that
smelled like flowers and boiled fat. He sniffed around, picking up the scents
of dried meats and fish from another box. Inside he saw rolls of parchment tied
with string, no doubt holding food. Scents both sweet and pungent wafted from
the box. Treats for him, he was sure. Another box had books, rolls of
parchment, some big feathers. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">None of them seemed like especially nice gifts, but at
least his minion tried. Her own pack lay open near her makeshift bed but
Galvarys doubted she had anything of interest in there, either. Elyra looked
quite peaceful in her slumber. She was not shivering, so her bed-thing clearly
provided suitable warmth. The dragon stepped past her, careful not to knock
anything over. Hopefully Elyra would not rise and wake him early. He’d slept a
while under the stars but certainly did not feel rested. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In the hallway to his sleeping chamber, his folded
wings brushed the stone. It felt cold and rough upon the sensitive blue
membranes. He tightened his wings, glancing at the floor. Old lines and gouges
marred the stone. Some of them came from his claws, but many were older.
Galvarys thought back to when he’d first found this place, unable to recall any
lingering dragon-scent. He tossed his head and nearly banged it on the ceiling
again. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys grumbled. He tossed a few hides over the
light stones, plunging the room into near darkness. The dragon had no trouble
seeing in the faint, steely light that emanated from the hallway leading to his
treasure chamber. Galvarys glanced around for the tapestry that once sheathed
his blood-stained reminder. The memory made him cringe and pin his spines, but
he’d put it behind him again soon enough. When he saw Elyra had tugged the
tapestry back where it belonged, he smiled.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Good girl.” The dragon curled up atop the thickest
portion of his mountain of bedding. “You shall make a fine minion.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys lay his head upon his spined tail, and draped
his wings over himself. The dragon was asleep before his next breath. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra woke with the dawn. Much as she’d rather sleep
in, a lifetime spent rising with the sunrise was difficult to overcome. At
least now she could laze about in her bedroll and wait for the dragon to call
her to attend whatever servant duties he might dream up. A dragon. She served a
dragon now. Elyra had expected her first few mornings here to be hazy and
confusing. She thought she’d find herself groping about for the edges of her
thin bed, for the curtain that was her only wall. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Yet Elyra had already fought through that confusion on
her way to the dragon’s hill. Even the simple inn rooms she slept in during her
travels seemed extravagant. When she woke in them it took her groggy mind a few
moments to remember where she was. That was not the case now. The moment she
opened her eyes in Galvarys’ fortress, saw the soft blue light cast across the
vine-carved columns around her, the glittering of valuable treasure and the
piles of junk, Elyra knew where she was.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">She was home. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Home was a fortress with a cranky, egotistical dragon,
and she could not be happier.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra sat up, unable to suppress a bubbling laugh. She
lived with a dragon. From servant wench and slave whore to dragon’s assistant
in a matter of weeks. The laughter burst from her lips and echoed around the
room, fueled by a happy sort of disbelief. Elyra clapped a hand over her mouth,
her eyes wide. She did not wish to wake the slumbering dragon. When Galvarys
did not emerge, angry at being so rudely awoken, she let out a silent sigh.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra rose, still clad in her golden dress. When the
village first gave it to her, it was pristine and flawless and only a day
later, it was torn, dirtied, and wrinkled. They told her the dragon liked gold,
and that proved to be true. Yet he didn’t seem to care about the dress, and
neither did Elyra. Not that she didn’t enjoy wearing dresses, but she was
looking forward to choosing her own clothing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Back in the Hall, she had no clothes of her own. They
gave her uniforms to wear, and the only time she wore anything else was when
one of the nobles had some fantasy he wished fulfilled. Once, she had to bite
her tongue to keep from pointing out that “warrior girls” would not wear such
revealing outfits because they’d be cut to pieces. When she cast off this dress
she’d never put it back on unless the dragon decided otherwise. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra knew the sort of thing she’d like to wear, if
the dragon allowed it. She hoped he’d even let her pick something out from the
village. Till then, she’d dug out a few suitable outfits from his hoard.
Hopefully he would not mind her going through his belongings. Not like the
dragon would make use of his collected clothing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Where did a dragon get so much clothing, anyway? Most
of it was moldering and moth-eaten, but the contents of one crate seemed almost
new. Maybe he’d raided a merchant convoy and found blouses and breeches instead
of gold. Silly dragon probably took it just to save face. Perhaps the garments
were tribute, proclaimed to be the finest silks and cloth in all the land, when
in fact they were common and cheap. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Not that he’d know any better. Part of Elyra wanted to
tell the old beast half his tributes were worthless. The rest of her was afraid
of his ensuing anger. She imagined a dragon might throw the same sort of
petulant temper tantrum as a furious noble. Yet instead of a poor servant
getting whipped with a belt, some village might burn down. She’d better break
it to him gently. Or better yet, she could just tell the villages that now the
dragon had someone who understood the value of things. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Or perhaps she’d just let him bask in the glory of his
collection of wooden plates and street corner tunics while she giggled behind
his back. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra strolled into the front courtyard of the old
fortress. The air was cool, scented heavily with the sweetness of morning dew.
Sunlight crept down the nearby mountains, painting their stony slopes gold.
Coils of mist swirled in the distance, dancing along the edges of the mesa.
Sunrise bathed the high, wispy clouds in layers of pink and orange. Birds
warbled beautiful songs from the clusters of trees scattered around the mesa.
Elyra slowly turned in place, letting the dew wet her bare feet. This place was
more beautiful than she could have ever imagined. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra settled upon the damp grass, leaned up against a
stone wall and stared up at the sky. She felt free. She smiled as she watched
the colors change with the sunrise. Pink turned to red, orange turned to golden
sunlight. When the sunrise was complete, the sky itself was a beautiful blue,
deep and clear. Today, she would reach that sky on the back of a dragon. It
seemed the ultimate culmination of all her desires as she imagined the feeling
of freedom, of independence. Already she could almost feel the wind through her
hair. She couldn’t wait.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Oh, she hoped Galvarys didn’t sleep in too late. She
wanted to fly. Her belly knotted in delightful anticipation. Still, she
wouldn’t wake the beast on her own. It would be very bad manners, especially on
her first day as his assistant. She liked the sound of dragon’s assistant
better than dragon’s servant. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra watched the skies till hunger drew her
attention. She pushed herself back to her feet, dusted off her rump and headed
inside to the boxes she’d brought with her. Elyra untied the parchment around a
package of dried and salted fish, and quickly eased the gnawing in her belly.
Simple as it was, it still made a pleasant change from a thin bowl of gruel
every morning.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When she was finished eating, Elyra picked out her
clothing. A dress hardly seemed appropriate for riding a dragon, so she dug
some trousers and a blouse out of the crate of clothes not yet claimed by moths
and mold. The simple black leather trousers were not a perfect fit, but
comfortable, and would help protect her from the dragon’s hide. She also
selected a long-sleeved blouse in a lovely shade of blue with silver threading
along the sleeves. She fetched a bar of soap from one of her boxes, and headed
for the tub. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon’s sleeping chamber was darker than expected
so Elyra paused to let eyes adjust. She didn’t want to step on anything sharp.
Or the dragon. In the darkness, she listened to the dragon’s breathing. Instead
of a fortress-rattling snore, it was soft and slow. Elyra took two breaths for
every one the slumbering dragon took. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Once she could see, Elyra slipped through the dragon’s
sleeping chamber. Galvarys was curled upon his so-called bed with his
spiral-horned head resting on his tail, with his wings shrouding his body. He
reminded her of a noble’s cat, curled and content. In the near darkness, the
dragon looked a single shade of blue-black. His front paw twitched.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It was nice to know even dragons could look peaceful.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">There was plenty of illumination in the bathing room.
Sunlight spilled through the arched exit and broken windows. Come winter,
they’d have to put up some blankets to keep out the cold. Maybe the dragon
would let her have a few stoves. Elyra set her soap on some white tile not
obscured by moss, and laid her clean clothes where they’d stay dry. Then she
stripped off her scuffed and dirty golden dress. As she looked for a place to
climb into the tub, her bladder complained.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra reached for her dress, hesitating. Why put it on
just to go outside and hike it back up? Besides, she’d still have more privacy
on this mesa than back in the servant’s quarters. Elyra smiled, striding naked
into the back courtyard. The feeling of cool morning air against so much bare
skin made her shiver. A patch of sunlight felt lovely and warm. She’d heard
whispers and rumors of people…normal people…who enjoyed swimming in the nude or
lying in the sun. She could almost see why. When her bladder was empty she
headed back inside, fetched her soap, and looked for a good place to climb into
the tub. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A set of large stone steps descended into the water.
Elyra eased down them on her rump to avoid slipping on the moss. The water was
cool and Elyra dunked herself to help adjust. She ran her hands through her
hair, then popped back up out of the water. Droplets sprayed as she tossed her
head, sodden red strands flying about her face. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra scowled. She hadn’t brought any washcloths or
towels. Perhaps she could get some from the village, but for now she’d make do
with soap alone. Elyra went to the fountain at the head of the tub, and rubbed
the soap between her hands in the cascading water. The soap’s flowery aroma
tinted the air as froth and bubbles rolled across the bath. Elyra hummed to
herself, and worked the soap against her skin.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra tapped a soapy finger around her rounded chin in
thought. Tiny bubbles dribbled down her skin. The old stairs made it clear the
fountain had always served as tub, but why was it so large? Had they built it
for a dragon slave? Or had the dragon been an ally? Hell, maybe the humans were
the slaves. Or maybe it wasn’t a dragon…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why does it smell like flowers in here?” Galvarys’
voice startled Elyra from her thoughts. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra jumped. The soap shot from her hand and skidded
across the tile. The sound of the fountain had covered the dragon’s approach.
Galvarys stood with half his body protruding from the archway, peering around
the room. His indigo nostrils flexed. His eyes settled on Elyra, and the soapy
froth surrounding her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What have you done to my water?” The dragon narrowed
his silver eyes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s heartbeat quickened for a few breaths. “I’ve
worked some soap into your bathing tub.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon cocked his spiral-horned head, staring at
her. “I do not understand.” The dragon hissed, padding towards her, his tail
lashing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra covered her breasts with her arms. “Soap is
something we use to help get clean, and we infuse it with pleasant scents. Like
flowers.” She smiled at him. “If you’re going to bathe when I’m done, I’ll
leave the soap so you can get cleaned too.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys gazed down at her. His silver eyes were
bloodshot, his ears and spines hung limp around his head. The dragon looked
groggy as hell. “I do not wish to smell like flowers.” He snorted. “That is a
female aroma.” Then he glanced around as if worried some female dragon
overheard. “A female <i>human </i>aroma.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Then perhaps the Azure Wrath will allow me to
entertain him while he waits for the soapy water to drain out.” Elyra grinned
up at him. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A smirk erased some of the dragon’s grogginess. “The
Azure Wrath appreciates that you remembered his name.” He stepped to the edge
of the tub. “But I have not had enough sleep. I shall bathe now to help rouse
myself.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“But I’m in here!” Elyra’s eyes widened. He didn’t
mean to--</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And I suggest you move aside.” The dragon stepped
down into the tub in a few quick strides. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Waves of cold, frothy water rolled away from the
submerging dragon and sloshed over Elyra’s head. She backed up to the edge of
the tub where white-bubbled waves crashed against the mossy tiles. When the
dragon shifted, leathery wings and pebbly scales brushed her bare skin. Elyra
squirmed while the dragon made himself comfortable.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“There.” The dragon grinned. “See? Plenty of room for
both of us.” He dunked his head with a splash, rubbing his muzzle beneath the
water. He smirked when he emerged. “I don’t know what--AH! My eyes!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Galvarys?” Elyra’s breath caught for a moment. The
dragon seemed in real pain. “What’s wrong?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“My eyes!” The dragon shook his head, frantic. Water
and soap sprayed from his pebbly blue scales. Elyra squeezed up against the
corner of the tub to avoid being clobbered by his muzzle. “They sting! The
water is burning them! What did you do?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I didn’t do anything,” Elyra said. Her momentary
concern was soon overwhelmed by amusement. “It’s just the soap!” What a big
scaly baby. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“But it hurts!” The dragon rubbed at his eyes with a
paw, spreading the soap. A hint of actual terror crept into his voice. “I
cannot see!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Now she felt a little sorry for him. He was going to
be so embarrassed when he realized it was just soap in his eyes. How could he
not know…? No, of course he wouldn’t know. He’d probably never seen soap in his
life, let alone bathed with it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You aren’t supposed to get soapy water in your eyes.”
Elyra put a hand upon his flank. “Stop rubbing them, you’re making it worse.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon grit his teeth, growling in pain. “But it
burns!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra chewed her lip. The sting might be far worse for
the eyes of a creature who’d never experienced it. “Let me help you. Blink your
eyes a few times, then squeeze them shut.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra waded around the dragon. She ignored the feeling
of so many scales against bare skin. Now was not the time to act prudish. She
ran her hand up his neck, then rubbed his cheek to coax him to turn around.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Turn towards my hand, but don’t trample me.” Elyra
moved through the water with the dragon, guiding him with her touch. “I’ll help
you rinse your eyes in the fountain.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Very well.” The dragon’s voice was soft and resigned.
“The water tastes terrible now!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Don’t drink it when it’s soapy,” Elyra said, guiding
him towards the fountain. “In fact, you shouldn’t speak till we rinse you off.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon grumbled, turning in the water. Every
movement sent another wave crashing over Elyra. She got soap in her eyes and
mouth too. She spat it out, and blinked away the worst of the stinging. The
fact the dragon seemed so traumatized by something so simple was both pitiable
and endearing.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hold your head out.” Elyra put her hand upon
Galvarys’ nose when he stretched his neck. She stopped him just before the
water bubbling over the fountain’s last mossy, white ledge. “Now, I’m going to
start rinsing you off. Don’t open your eyes yet.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon remained quiet. His breath blew droplets of
water and turned the tiny fountain waterfall into heavy spray every few
moments. Elyra cupped her hands and collected some cool water. She poured it
over the dragon’s face, rinsing away some of the soap that clung to his pebbly
scales and spiny eye ridges. Then she repeated the gesture a few times.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“The burning should be easing now.” Elyra tipped
another handful of water over him. “Just a little longer, Galvarys.” Elyra
rinsed his eyes until the dragon opened them to squinting, silver slits. He
glared at her, blinked, and opened his eyes a little further. She smiled.
“Better? You can stick your head under the waterfall if you want. I just didn’t
want you sticking your nose in it while you couldn’t see and drowning
yourself.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon grunted and pushed his head beneath the
waterfall. He tilted it back and forth, letting the cold, fresh water cascade
across him. Elyra pulled back to her own corner, hoping he wouldn’t be angry.
So much for a nice, soapy bath. In the future perhaps she’d wait until after
the dragon had washed himself. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’m sorry about that.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon’s ears flicked at the sound of her voice.
He glanced away from Elyra, blinking away water. “Your apology is accepted.
Thank you for…” The dragon growled as though he had trouble with a particular
word. “Helping me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’re welcome.” Elyra smiled. Rivulets of water ran
down his indigo scales. “May I see your eyes a moment?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys turned his head towards her. Elyra stretched
to look into the dragon’s eyes. Their silver hue was tinted red and bloodshot,
but otherwise they looked fine. She patted his neck and eased back to her
corner when he pulled his head away.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Your eyes look alright. Do they feel better now?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” The dragon lapped at the fountain and let the
water fall from his muzzle. Elyra realized he was rinsing his mouth. Dragons
probably couldn’t spit the way she could. He pinned his spines back, and gave
her a sidelong glance between mouthfuls of water. “It startled me, that was all.
I did not know water could burn your eyes.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Your body isn’t used to it.” Elyra leaned back
against the mossy ledge. “It stings my eyes too, but only a little, and I know
I can rinse it out. I can see why that would…” She almost said, ‘scare you’.
But the dragon might not appreciate that. “Startle you.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys grumbled and eased back onto his haunches.
Water ran down the exposed portion of his body, dripped from the talons at the
tips of his wings. “I close my flight membranes when I put my head beneath the
water. When I opened them this time, my eyes were on fire.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Flight membranes?” Elyra peered at his eyes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” Galvarys gestured with a dripping paw. “Like a
clear inner eyelid. They protect our eyes from the winds when we fly, or the
water when we swim. See?” Translucent membranes flicked shut across the
dragon’s eyes, dulling their silver shine. “They protected me from the soap
until I pulled them back. Next time I will keep them closed until I rinse my
face.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So you’re not angry?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys turned his head away. “No.” The dark blue
color around his nostrils deepened. The inside of his ears darkened, as did the
membranes that connected his facial spines. After a moment they’d turned from
blue to a deep purple hue. Elyra could not stop herself from grinning when she
realized dragons could blush. “Do not tell anyone about this.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Never, Azure Wrath. I’ve forgotten already.” Elyra
giggled to herself, the water rippling around her. “The way I recall it, I was
the one afraid I was going blind, and you were the one helping me!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, yes, that’s enough.” The dragon lifted a paw
from the water to wave it about. Droplets splattered the tile. He soon turned
his head back, arching his neck to gaze down at her. He stared at her, tilting
his head. “Have you cleaned yourself properly?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“More or less.” With the soapy froth thinning out, the
water provided less privacy. Elyra felt a little self-conscious beneath the
dragon’s gaze, covering her breasts with her arms.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why do you hide your milk glands?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Milk glands?” The term caught Elyra so completely off
guard that she burst into laughter.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” Galvarys cocked his head, lifting his spines in
curiosity. “Is that not what they are for? Feeding your young?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Well…Yes. For children. But they’re private. For sex.
Men. Men like them.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra stumbled across her words, tripping and rolling
through them till she’d jumbled up entire sentences. Her ears burned. She must
look as scarlet now as he did purple a moment earlier. The dragon stared back
at her, his muzzle hanging half-open and spines sagging as he struggled to
comprehend what she was babbling about. His expression made her laugh again and
gave her a chance to compose herself. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, Galvarys,” Elyra said after she’d steadied her
tongue. “They’re for feeding our children. But only when they’re babies. The
rest of the time…well, we consider them private.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I thought you considered that private.” The dragon
pointed a single claw down beneath the water. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra blushed a little harder, shifting under the
water. “We do. But for women, our breasts are also private.” At least for women
who were allowed that courtesy.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I see.” The dragon dunked his head under the
fountain, rinsing his face again. He licked his nose, glancing at her. “And
they are for mating?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not exactly.” Elyra chewed her tongue. How to explain
without further embarrassing herself? “Men find them arousing.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why?” The dragon did not sound as though he were
trying to be difficult, or trick her into saying anything perverse. He simply
sounded curious. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I don’t know,” Elyra said, shrugging. “If you don’t
mind, I’m going to turn around.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Go ahead.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra turned away from the dragon. She scooped up what
froth she could and went back to bathing herself, trying to answer his
question. “They just do. Don’t you find anything arousing on a female dragon?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of course,” Galvarys said. “Her sex.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed, shaking her head. “I meant aside from
the obvious.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Her haunches.” Waves washed against Elyra when the
dragon shifted. She glanced over her shoulder. Galvarys worked his paws against
his own scales, cleaning himself as he spoke. “Her tail. The shape of her body.
Her scent.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And can you explain why you find any of those things
arousing?” She dunked herself to rinse her hair and give the creature privacy
when he cleaned his other areas. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys rumbled in thought, clicked his teeth when
Elyra surfaced. “I simply do. I see your point.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra wondered how long it had been since he’d seen a
female dragon. She thought of the sword, and her belly lurched. She wrung out
her hair and watched Galvarys gently clean his wings. Elyra opened her mouth
and shut it again before she blurted out some personal question she’d regret.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I am clean now.” The dragon’s matter-of-fact
announcement made her grin. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’m almost done, myself.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Good.” The dragon climbed out of the tub. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra turned her eyes away out of habit. “I suppose
you dragons don’t really consider your…well, your privates don’t seem to be
especially…private to you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I am not ashamed of my anatomy, if that is what you
are asking.” Galvarys padded away, shaking himself off like a vastly oversized
hound. “Nor am I embarrassed by it.” Then he glanced back at her, smirking.
“Unless someone unexpectedly grabs it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Funny.” Elyra smirked. “I’m going to get out now. If
you’re going to watch, I cannot stop you, but I’d prefer that you did not.
Privacy is a rare commodity for me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I am curious.” The dragon backed up to a wall. “I
have not seen what a human looks like without their clothes, discounting the
way the soapy water obscures your body now. Your undergarments are as close as
I’ve come.” He lifted a wing, pressed the side of his body against the stone
wall, then rubbed against it to scratch what must be a very large itch. “But I
shall not subject you to my gaze if you find it offensive.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not offensive,” Elyra said, sloshing through the
water to the stairs. “Just…it’s a bit embarrassing to a human, I suppose.”
Truth was, she’d been made to undress before men so many times in her life that
she barely even noticed the embarrassment. She simply wanted a chance to feel
as though she were doing something in private. “Tell you what. You let me dress
on my own this time, alone, and next time I shall allow you to watch without
complaint. Is that fair?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” The dragon heaved a great groan as he quelled
the troublesome itch. “But do not dally. We have a village to terrify, and I
seem to recall offering you a ride on my back.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes!” The glee growing inside Elyra caused her to
chirp her words like a warbling bird. “You did! I’ve an idea I think you’ll
love, too! But you’ll have to wait till I’m dressed to hear it.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Very well,” the dragon said, grinning. “I have to go
take a piss, anyway.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s grin fell over, twisting into a scowl as the
dragon’s tail spines vanished through the archway. “Lovely, Dragon.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">She shook her head, her scowl soon vanishing. Perhaps
she should have expected the dragon’s casual sort of crudeness. Why would a
wild, free beast be beholden to the same sort of morals and politeness that a
city stuffed with humans was? He scarcely seemed to understand the concept of
privacy, and while he used crude words and phrases, he was never lewd. At least
not in the manner of the nobles. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I have to go take a piss,” Elyra said in the gruffest
growl she could manage. She waved her hand in the air, laughing. “Piss, piss,
piss.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Just don’t do it in the tub!” The dragon called back
from somewhere outside.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra reddened. She had to start remembering how
sensitive his ears were. She made her way up the mossy stairs, careful not to
slip, and then gathered her clothes. They’d gotten a bit damp thanks to the
dragon’s splashing. Grinning, she tried to shake herself off the way the dragon
did. Not as effective as she hoped. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra used her clothes to blot at her body, enjoying
her privacy. Even though her clothes were damp anyway, it was a worthwhile
moment to savor her privacy. It was nice just knowing there wasn’t a roomful of
other women about to march in and share the tub.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When Elyra was something resembling dry, she pulled
the clothes on. Whenever the fabric caught against damp skin she tugged it
free. The black trousers were too long and baggy but they wouldn’t fall down.
The indigo blouse fit better, though the sleeves were also too long so Elyra
rolled them up.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Once dressed, Elyra returned to Galvarys’ treasure
room. She fetched her old brush from her pack, and worked it through her wet,
red hair. She tossed the brush onto her bedroll and fetched a long-bladed knife
in a gold-trimmed leather scabbard. She’d discovered it while digging through
the clothes. It seemed appropriate so she buckled it around her waist. She
picked up some parchment she’d scribbled a few words on, and stuffed it into
her pocket. Finally, she shoved her feet into a pair of oversized, black
leather boots she’d found at the bottom of a crate. She laced them up, and went
to find the dragon. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys waited for her in the sunshine beyond the
fortress. The dragon stood with his wings half unfurled, his wedge-shaped head
tilted back as he stared up at the sky. His freshly-washed indigo and azure
scales looked more vibrant than ever, while his black stripes were lines of
shadow stretched across each limb. More darkness mottled him here and there
like storm clouds against the deep blue sky. The dragon’s spiraling horns
resembled pillars of carved obsidian crowning his skull. When he glanced over
at her, the sunlight caught his eyes till the silver glowed with molten fire. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What are you staring at?” The dragon snorted,
nostrils flexing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You.” Elyra paced around the dragon, unable to stop
smiling. “You’re magnificent right now. You look as though you’re ready to
spring into some final battle, though whether you’re hero or villain I cannot
say.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys grinned back at her, twisting his neck to
watch Elyra. “It is amusing you should say that. Just last night while I was
flying, I was thinking I would not mind being remembered as a villain, so long
as I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">am</i> remembered.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’d be remembered alright.” Elyra trailed her
fingers along the dragon’s neck. “Could you arch your neck right here, please?
Spread your wings?” She walked behind him, tracing a finger over the scales of
his tail. “And curve your tail. Show off your spines.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon did as she asked, glancing back at her over
his wings. “Why am I doing this?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It makes you look even more magnificent.” Elyra
stepped back to get a better view of the sun-painted dragon. She rubbed her
hands together, beaming. “Perfect. Galvarys, if you were painted this way as
the villain in some picture book, no one would remember the hero. They’d only
remember the grand, villainous dragon and all his magnificence.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys rumbled in his throat, bared a few fangs. He
arched his neck again. “I like the sound of that.” Then he snarled, pinning his
spines back. “Until the part where the hero puts a lance in my belly.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh, no, no,” Elyra said, waving her hand as if
shooing away the idea. “You’re the sort of villain who escapes in the end so
you can cause trouble again later.” She tugged a few stray strands of red hair,
twining them around her finger. “Oh! Or perhaps the sort of antagonist who
begrudgingly allies himself with the hero to fight a greater evil.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys hissed and tossed his head. “That sounds as
though it would require a good deed. I prefer the first idea, where I just
escape and plot my revenge.” The dragon grinned at Elyra, perking his frilled
ears. “My minion would escape with me, of course.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Minion?” Elyra tilted her head, her grin widening. “I
like the sound of that.” She waggled her finger at him. “I’d love to get to
make demands and steal treasure! But let’s not be too evil. I don’t think I
have murder and mayhem in me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Leave that part to me.” The dragon smirked and
glanced at the sky. “So, minion, are you getting on my back or not?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Absolutely.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">How best to get onto a dragon’s back? The direct
approach seemed best. She’d just run, jump, grab his wing joint and climb up.
Elyra took a few steps back, and ran at Galvarys. She leapt off the ground,
hurled herself at the dragon’s back and grasped his wing joint. But she
misjudged her leap and smacked into the dragon’s scaly side. Her fingers
slipped, and she flopped straight to the ground. She coughed as she landed on
her back, and for a moment just lay there, half dazed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys curled his neck to gaze down at her, cocking
his head. “That did not go so well.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra coughed again, pushing herself up to her knees.
“I noticed.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Are you alright?” The dragon rustled his wings as if
impatient with her failed attempt.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“More or less.” Elyra grimaced, her ribs aching as she
rose. While she dusted herself off, she looked the dragon over. “Would you be
willing to lay down for me, please?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys nodded, easing himself to the grassy earth.
He stretched his black-striped forelegs out, folding his indigo wings tight
against his body. “How is this?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Much better.” Elyra backed up a few steps for round
two.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why don’t you just climb up?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra paused, glancing away. “It’s not as dramatic.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon raised his eye ridges, laughing. “Fine,
injure yourself then.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra imagined herself toppling right over the other
side of him and smashing her face against the earth. She cringed, rubbing her
nose. “No, you’re right.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra approached the dragon and grasped the fleshy
joint where his wing met his body. She tested out a few places to put her other
hand, trying to get some leverage. Then she pushed her boot against his
foreleg, glancing up at him to make sure he did not mind. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys curled his neck towards her. “You could try
grabbing--AH!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra reached for the dragon’s head when he offered it
for leverage and accidentally grabbed his ear. It was warm, and soft. Given the
way the dragon yowled when she inadvertently twisted it, it was also sensitive.
His cry startled her and she released him immediately, trying to scramble up
his back. Her boots scrabbled against his scales but found little purchase and
she slid back to the ground. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys rubbed his ear with a paw, growling. “That
hurt!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Sorry!” Elyra cringed a little. “Are you alright?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You haven’t torn my ear off.” The dragon glared at
her a moment, then looked himself over. “Put your boot against my shoulder, and
your hand on my wing joint. Grab the base of my neck with your other hand.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra did just that. She struggled, but with enough
effort she finally made it up the dragon’s back. As she swung her leg over him,
she nearly fell off the other side. She yelped and hugged herself to the base
of the dragon’s neck. When she was sure she wasn’t going to fall, she
straightened up. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Okay…I think I’m settled.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys twisted his head around to glare at her,
silver eyes narrowed. “Are you sure this is wise? I have never done this
before.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That makes two of us, then,” Elyra said, already
beaming as she gazed around the mesa from the dragon’s back. “And no, it’s not
wise. But I’m not getting off of you now until we land in the village.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Or until you fall.” Galvarys snorted, rising to his
paws. “Your weight feels odd.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Am I too heavy?” Elyra swayed as the dragon stood. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is not a matter of weight. I have already carried
you and those boxes. But I’ve never had weight against my back before.” The
dragon took a slow, awkward step, then another. “It feels strange. Give me a
moment to get used to it.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">That was fine with Elyra. She needed time as well.
Each step the dragon took caused her to bobble and sway. She felt the dragon’s
warmth against her, felt each rippling movement of powerful muscles. Elyra
imagined it might be like riding a horse bareback, but she’d never done that,
either. She shifted herself a little, testing the slickness of his scales. She
was thankful they did not feel slippery. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“How does it feel?” Elyra leaned in a few directions,
trying to adjust to his movements.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not terrible.” Galvarys went into a loping trot
around the mesa. “Your weight is not an issue. As long as you do not interfere
with my wing beats, I foresee no problems.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon’s muscles rippled and rolled against Elyra,
but she adjusted quickly. Soon her body swayed with the dragon’s movements, and
before long she felt comfortable enough atop him. She patted his scales,
grinning. This was already fun. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“How are we going to know if I interfere with--AAAAH!”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra screamed when the dragon launched himself into
the air. Her stomach puddled in her boots. She flung herself against the
dragon’s neck, shrieking as they ascended. Elyra pressed her face to Galvarys,
scales etched marks against her cheek. Wind gusted around her, every upward
motion pushed her stomach harder against her soles. The ascent was swift but
short. Galvarys leveled off after only a few powerful wing beats. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“By testing.” The dragon glanced back. Sunlight
glinted against his silver eyes, but the gleam was dulled when he flicked his
flight membranes closed. “You’re not going to scream like that the whole time,
are you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You startled the hell out of me!” Elyra said, still
clinging to the back of his neck. “I wasn’t ready!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You need not worry.” The dragon dipped a wing to
follow the contours of his mesa. “I would not ascend to a dangerous height
until you were prepared. If you fell from this height you would not die.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra peeled her face away from the dragon’s neck to
peer at the ground below. They weren’t much higher than the trees that crowned
the mesa. The grass whipped by beneath them. “I’m not so sure! At best I’d
probably break half the bones in my body.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“They would heal.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra shook her head as she eased upright. The dragon
stretched his wings, gliding. His body felt still and hard beneath her, coiled
power. She’d once heard a noble discuss feeling the power of his horse, now she
understood what he meant. She also knew the power of a dragon had to be far
more impressive. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">As Galvarys sailed wide circles around his fortress,
Elyra adjusted to the feeling of flight. As her startled fear wore off, joy
quickly replaced it. She twisted back and forth, gazing down over each side of
the dragon’s body. Every gorgeous, sun-dappled mountain peak suddenly seemed
within reach. She looked behind herself. The dragon’s wings looked immense and
magnificent, vast indigo sails rippled with black swirls and markings. Elyra
felt his power in every wing beat, felt the air whirl around her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This was everything she’d hoped for.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Higher!” Elyra called out to the dragon. “Fly
higher!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys’ laughter reverberated through him. The
dragon beat his wings in swift ascent. Elyra leaned against his neck, watching
in awe as the world fell away. Soon the fortress was but a gray block on a
green patch of land amidst a crack in the earth. The distant mountains looked
like the scales, plates and spines of some massive relative of Galvarys. This
was how the dragon saw the world every day. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Please!” Elyra yelled to him. “Please tell me you
never take this for granted!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This time when the dragon laughed, the cascading
rumble filled the air. “Never! Flight is one of my greatest joys!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra knew why. Flight was freedom. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Now Elyra shared that joy. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<br /></div>
The Wilder Landshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09024638755887735262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3106716999918755903.post-59218327494573251902014-11-22T16:46:00.000-08:002014-11-23T16:49:37.764-08:00Chapter Seven<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Chapter Seven</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys fought his smile the whole way to the Village
of Rings. He did not like smiling so much. It was very unbecoming for a dragon.
He was ferocious, furious, sly, witty, cunning. He was not a happy, joyful
idiot. Yet the further they flew, the more joy Elyra exuded. The more exuberant
his minion became, the harder it was for the dragon to avoid sharing her
happiness. In the end he gave up his struggle and let the foolish grin mar his
muzzle. The girl couldn’t see it anyway.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">His minion prattled the entire trip. Galvarys did not
mind, given that everything she said was about the beauty of flight. Touch the
clouds this, reach the mountains that, how wondrous and amazing and so on. To
Galvarys it was like seeing flight through new eyes. He had not lied when he
told her he never took it for granted. But it had been a long time since he’d
first met the sky. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys’ first flight was one of his favorite
memories. Long before his own wings were strong enough to carry him, his mother
took him flying. She cradled him against her chest plates, her forelegs wrapped
around him. Her heartbeat was love, her warm grasp security. He remembered how
as the world fell away, his joy grew and grew. He’d laughed and squealed and
waved his little black-striped legs in the air. His mother laughed with him. It
was not a memory he thought of often, but he cherished it nonetheless.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s joy reminded him of that moment. An innocent
and pure revelry in something that seemed so natural and simple to a dragon. He
let Elyra babble as his mind wandered to those long-lost days. It had been a
long time since he’d thought about the mornings his mother took him flying with
the sunrise. Back then the world seemed endless, life seemed infinite, and men
who hunted dragons seemed only a frightening tale for disobedient hatchlings.
He missed those days.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon’s smile lingered as he glanced back at his
passenger. “Thank you!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“For what?” Elyra called back to him. The look of
wide-eyed wonder never left her face.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Reminding me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">By the time they approached the Village of Rings,
Galvarys was accustomed to the strange feeling of weight and warmth against his
back. It was not as natural a feeling as the caress of wind that buoyed his
wings, but it was not unpleasant. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Once they soared above the circular roads, Galvarys
advised his passenger to cover her ears before he gave a loud, trumpeting roar.
There was no threat in this roar, simply a brassy call. It was the same primal
greeting he’d offer other dragons. Not that humans would know the difference.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Look at them scurry!” Galvarys laughed as he watched
them scrabble in the circular streets like frantic insects beneath an
overturned stone.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys felt Elyra shift. Her laughter sounded
musical. “I’ve never seen people scramble so madly before! Do they always do
this when you arrive?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of course!” Galvarys dipped a wing, following the
curved line of an outer road. “Some of them run for cover, others for something
to appease me with. The guards are going for their weapons in case I make
trouble. I imagine their fat little mayor is cursing me for interrupting his
brothel visit.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon circled the town, gazing down upon it. The
cobbled streets and muddy alleys were filled with flailing insects desperate to
find another leaf to crawl under. The houses were warts upon the land, roofed
in hairy thatch and scaly tile. The mayor’s house was the biggest wart of all.
Throughout the town, tracts of muddy land surrounded by wooden fences held
bleating livestock. The flowers of the garden and the streaming cloth banners
affixed to the corners of stalls set up in the market seemed a feeble attempt
to add a little color to the gross discoloration the humans had inflicted upon
the forest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It’s beautiful!” Elyra peered at the village.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What?” Galvarys would have jerked his head up in
shock if he wasn’t in flight. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“The village!” Elyra giggled, one arm draped across
the dragon’s neck. “All the little rings. It must look magical lit up at night,
like a fairy tale!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It was beautiful when it was a forest.” The dragon
snapped his jaws. “Now it’s a stain.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Now, now.” The wind tried to steal Elyra’s voice. “If
people hadn’t built a village in your forest, who would quake at your arrival
and fill your many homes with tribute?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys pinned his spines back. He growled, scanning
the plaza around the mayor’s house. “They still need not build such large
settlements.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Large?” Elyra sounded confused. “You think…this is
large? The city I’ve spent my life in is ten times this size!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">That was a disquieting idea. The dragon knew there
were larger cities, but he did not think they were <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> big. Either way he hoped to never set eyes upon them. He had
enough trouble just dealing with the Five Villages and all their travelers. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’m going to land in the garden. Hold tight!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why are you landing in the garden?” Elyra pressed
herself against his neck, arms encircling it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Because it’s soft. And I hate the mayor. Now, hold
tight to me!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When Elyra was prepared, Galvarys dipped his right
wing and spiraled towards the ground. Normally Galvarys descended in a sharp,
swift spiral in case of hidden archers, but because of Elyra he kept his
descent wide and slow. He adjusted his wing angles any time he felt Elyra
slide. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys extended his hind legs as he swept in. He
touched down on hind feet first, then dropped his front paws down. Elyra
bounced against his back but offered no complaint. He trotted a few paces,
tearing up earth and flowers. Once he’d come to a complete stop, he lowered
himself onto his belly. Elyra hopped off of him onto the earth of the garden.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That was amazing!” Unbidden, Elyra threw her arms
around his neck, hugging him. The dragon grunted in alarm, then hissed. He did
not mind the affection so much as he minded being seen as affectionate. He
pulled away from her, growling. “Not in front of the villagers!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh! Sorry!” Elyra’s face reddened and she turned away
from him, surveying the growing crowd. “Is it always like this when you visit?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys grunted, sniffing the air. It already stank
of too many humans gathered into one place. At least the myriad flowers in the
garden and the acrid wood smoke drifting from chimneys helped to quell the
odor. A wall of burly men in padded leather armor lined with bronze studs stood
between the dragon and the crowd. Each man had a helmet that matched his armor
and carried both sword and spear. In the distance, archers took up their usual
positions in shadowy nooks and crannies they must have thought hid them. Galvarys
wondered why they didn’t just set up a few rotten logs to hide under like the
rest of the vermin. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“There’s chaos every time.” The dragon glanced down at
Elyra. She seemed enraptured by the crowd. “It’s entertaining, aside from the
idiot archers who think I can’t see them skulking about.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Ooooh.” Elyra stood on her tip toes to see over the
heads of the gathering masses. “So that’s who you’re afraid of.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I am not afraid of them!” The dragon lashed his tail
against a rosebush. Thorns were no defense against scales, and his spines
scythed it down along with all its red blossoms. “I dislike being stuck with
arrows. It’s quite painful.” The dragon rumbled, flattened his ears and rubbed
at an old scar. “These archers won’t break the truce, but their skulking
irritates me.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra nodded, staring at the crowd. They’d been
murmuring since they saw his minion hug him. “Isn’t it wonderful?” She grinned
at Galvarys. “They’re all here to see you!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon arched his neck, chuckling. The girl seemed
more impressed by the crowd he drew than he was. “I am magnificent, after all.”
He stretched his wing to scratch at his neck. “Though, admittedly, they are
likely here to see if I’m rejecting you like the last girl.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra furrowed her brow and fetched a bit of parchment
from the pocket of her black breeches. Galvarys wasn’t sure, but he thought
there was something mischievous in her expression. He’d have to study the faces
she made.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra waved the parchment after she unfolded it.
“Let’s show them otherwise.” She flashed Galvarys a grin. “May I give you a
proper introduction? In the Hall, important people always get announced at
formal gatherings. I’ve…” She licked her lips, staring down at the paper.
“Written you one, actually. If you’d like me to say it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon cocked his head. An introduction? He liked
the sound of that. “Very well, Minion. Introduce me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra stepped towards the crowd, her voice ringing
out. “Greetings! Greetings, people of…of…” Elyra turned back towards the
dragon. “What’s the name of this village?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The Village of
Rings.” Elyra gave him a blank look. Galvarys just waved his wing at her,
urging her to go on. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra turned back towards the people. She lifted her
voice to an impressive yell. “Greetings, people of the Village of Rings!” People
glanced around as if they thought she had the wrong village. “I come before you
today with tidings from the Lord of these lands. May I present to you, your
Lord and Protector, The Azure Wrath!” Elyra swept her hand back towards the
dragon in a grand gesture and gave the people a bow. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys grinned at her. Yes, he liked that. Now
they’d remember his name. She was doing well. She was impressing the people, he
was sure. She was…flicking her fingers at him.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Now.” Elyra hissed at him, waving again. “Your pose.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What?” The dragon licked his nose. What was she
babbling about? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Your pose,” she said, a little louder. “Do your
pose!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What pose?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“The one we practiced! Arch your neck!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Oh. That pose. Galvarys spread his wings out a little,
widened his stance. He curled his tail, flexing it to show off the curved
spines at the end. Then he lifted his wedge-shaped head, arching his long neck
to show off his own magnificence. He turned to stand sideways, displaying his
entire body to the gathered masses who were rightfully quite impressed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra waved her hand at him again. “The Azure Wrath!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The people alternated between staring at the dragon
and looking at one another. Galvarys growled and Elyra lifted her voice in a
rising cheer. She clapped her hands, gave another hurrah, and waved her arms at
the crowd. Soon a few of them were applauding. Before long, they all cheered
him. Galvarys grinned. He lifted his head even higher, his chest plates
swelling. Oh, he liked this. He was going to have to get Elyra to introduce him
more often.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra straightened and faced the crowd. When they
quieted, she glanced at her parchment. “The Azure Wrath is pleased with your
gift of a servant.” She grinned at the dragon. “A minion to serve in his name,
and bear his colors with pride.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">His colors? Oh! Black breeches, a blue shirt, with
silver threading. She did that on purpose. Clever girl. Then Elyra yelped when
a gust of wind blew her parchment clear out of her hand. It fluttered away in
the breeze. Perhaps not so clever after all. Galvarys half expected her to
chase it down before the entire crowd. Instead, she attempted her own recovery.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">She cleared her throat. “Good people, before I yield
the plaza to the regal dragon himself, he wishes to express his deep gratitude
for all the tributes you have given him over the years! And to remind you that
The Azure Wrath himself keeps your villages safe from all manner of banditry.
Now, your Lord has a demand.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra gave a deep bow, and then stepped aside. Not a
bad recovery, really. The dragon padded onto the time-worn cobblestone of the
plaza. Galvarys cleared his throat with a growl, gazing over the crowd. The
crowd fell silent, no doubt waiting to see what the majestic dragon would say
after being so grandly introduced. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I should like a ham.” Wait, that didn’t come out
right. “I should like many hams. And one for my minion.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Yes, much better. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The crowd went back to murmuring amongst themselves,
and Galvarys gave them a few moments to sort out who would be responsible for
providing his many hams. Perhaps he should make that a part of his legend.
Galvarys, who enjoyed many hams. He opened a black-edged wing, and folded Elyra
within its indigo expanse. She stumbled towards the dragon before she caught
her balance. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys lowered his head, silver eyes reflected in
gray. “I have demanded you a ham. Have you any other demands you wish to make?”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra rubbed her hands together, grinning. “I can
think of a few. I’d love some new clothes--” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon cut her off. “Very well. I shall allow you
to make them yourself. It will help my legend grow if even my minion makes
demands.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys lifted his head again as a commotion rose in
the crowd. A few armored guards escorted a fat little man with a hairy face
through the crowd. Galvarys would know that mustache anywhere. It looked as if
he’d chopped the fluffy tail off some poor fox and affixed it to his face. As
always he was clad in an extravagant vest, this one royal purple and edged with
golden ruffles that spilled over strained buttons. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">As the mayor emerged from the crowd, Galvarys couldn’t
tell if the guards were escorting him, or forcing him to face the dragon. Elyra
sucked in a breath when the mayor was in view. Galvarys glanced at her. She
looked tense, her jaw set.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh, Magnificent Dragon!” The mayor bowed deeply. One
of his vest buttons popped open. He fidgeted with it a moment before he
realized the button itself had sprung free of his vest. A shame the man’s
mustache and foul scent couldn’t escape him so easily. “We are humbled to be in
your--”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, yes.” The dragon cut the man off, waving his
paw. “My minion here already addressed my magnificence.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of…of course.” The mayor stumbled over his words. “I
see you have brought your…tribute.” His eyes flicked to Elyra. He fiddled with
his vest with shaking fingers. “I hope you’ve found this girl more pleasing
than the last?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I have.” The dragon’s voice was flat. Galvarys’ fire
glands churned at the back of his jaws. Bittersweet fire bile touched his
tongue. The dragon stepped towards the mayor, unsheathed black claws and
dragged them against the cobblestone. “That is part of the reason I am here. To
make sure the last girl is safe. Is she?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“C-certainly, Grand Dragon.” The mayor bowed again.
This time he held his purple vest together with his hands. “Why, her father
recently found work, and…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So you sent her because she was poor?” Elyra’s voice
surprised Galvarys. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon glanced down at her. She looked up with
wide eyes and a hand over her mouth. Seemed she’d startled herself with her
outburst. Galvarys tilted his head towards the mayor, encouraging her to go on.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra swallowed, then balled her fists, glaring at the
mayor. “Did her poverty make her worthless to you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The mayor stammered, beady eyes flicking from the dragon
to Elyra and back again. Galvarys stretched his wing, and brushed it against
Elyra’s back. May as well let his minion speak her mind.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra took a step towards the mayor, looking him over.
The more she spoke, the more her words were like poisoned darts. “Did you tell
her if she volunteered you’d have her family rewarded?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I…well, that is…” The mayor wrung his hands, his face
tightening.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s voice grew stronger as she squared back her
shoulders. “I bet she said no, and you sent her anyway.” Elyra spat at his feet.
“You nobles are all the same.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The mayor stuttered, his face flushing scarlet behind
his mustache. “Why…what…how dare some wen--”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“If you value your testicles…” Galvarys cut the mayor
off, grinning. “I would not say the word you’re thinking of.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon glanced at his minion. Elyra’s fists
trembled at her sides. Flight had dried her crimson hair and left it sticking
out in all directions. She looked like some crazed witch come to town to
terrify the civilized. Galvarys was pleased. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Do you know this man, Elyra?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” Elyra tilted her head back, chin thrust out.
“His name’s Varm. He used to be a friend of Atrius, the man who claimed to own
me.” Elyra glared at Varm, smirking. “So this is where they shipped you off
to.” She waved her hand at the gathered villagers, lifting her voice. “What did
this poor town do to have a man like you foisted upon them as their unwanted
mayor?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Shut your mouth, you branded wench!” Anger boiled
behind Varm’s beady eyes. Spittle flecked his mustache as his cheeks grew
redder. “Before I have it shut for you!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra stormed forward. Galvarys barred her with his
black-striped front leg. He growled at Varm, his voice all venom and coiled
threat. “Speak to her like that again and I will order her to kick you across
the plaza.” The dragon bared his fangs, hissing. “Retaliate and I shall kill
you.” The crimson hue drained from Varm’s face and the crowd behind him fell
silent. “I’d wager that would make me a hero.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Varm gave a trembling bow, half as deep as before.
“Please excuse my tongue, Grand Dragon…” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Apologize to my minion.” The dragon growled again,
his wings half unfurled. He kept his limb in place while anger ruled Elyra. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“My most gracious apologies, Madam.” The mayor
remained bowed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I accept your apology with the same sincerity you
offer it.” Elyra set a hand on the dragon’s leg while she glared at Varm. “It’s
alright now. I’m not going to hit him.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Good.” Galvarys curled his neck to let his eyes meet
hers. She needed to understand something. “If you harmed him now and I had to
protect you from his bodyguards, people would die. Now that he knows his life
is on the line, he will not insult nor harm you. Everyone lives.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s mouth opened and closed a few times as
questions whirled in her gray eyes. She turned away and ran a hand over her
face. Her breath shuddered, and Galvarys closed a wing around her.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Catch your breath, Elyra.” The dragon kept his voice
soft as though she were the only one there. “You’ve a mayor to make demands
of.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys turned his head back to the crowd. “Enough of
all that. In a moment, my minion shall make her demands. We shall wait here as
they are filled and my many hams are prepared. I should like also like proof
that the previous girl is alive, unharmed, and well.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The mayor sputtered. He summoned a purple-clad aide
and whispered into his ear. Galvarys scanned the crowd for a familiar face but
telling humans apart was difficult. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When Elyra patted his shoulder, Galvarys glanced down
at her. “Are you ready?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” Elyra’s voice was soft. “And thank you.” She
swallowed and wiped her eyes. “For ensuring I did not do anything foolish.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon nodded. “Give them your demands, Minion.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra smiled and strode towards the crowd. Elyra kept
her distance from the cowering mayor, no doubt because she was resisting the
urge to inflict some humiliating injury. Wise girl.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra squared her shoulders, lifting her chin and her
voice. “I have requests to make of you. Firstly, I should like some clothing.
My Lord has deigned to allow me the honor of riding him, thus I require
clothing suitable for flight. I should also like blouses, a few skirts and
dresses. All in the colors of The Azure Wrath.” Elyra glanced back at the
dragon, smiling.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys shook his head. “You can get yourself
something in other colors as well.” Quite gracious of him. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra faced the crowd again. “I also require a stove
suitable for heating a large amount of water, as well as a bathing tub. These
are not immediate needs, so you have time to construct them. Ensure that The
Azure Wrath can carry them.” Elyra grinned over her shoulder at the dragon. “I
should also like some sweets and things to share with my Lord. Oh! And some
towels and washcloths and things, and some extra soap.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Anything else?” The Mayor growled through grit teeth.
“Milady?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” Elyra fixed her eyes on the Mayor. “I should
like you to pay for it all out of your own pocket. No reason for poor villagers
to bear those costs.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I agree.” While Galvarys didn’t care got the bill,
Elyra’s idea would embarrass the mayor and ensure Galvarys himself looked good
in the eyes of the villagers. “The Mayor shall pay.” He licked his nose, his
belly growling. “How long until I get my hams?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A man came forward from the crowd, wrapped in a white
apron with a few stains upon it. He gave the dragon an awkward bow. “I’ve sent
my assistant to have them cut right away. But…begging your forgiveness…Azure…” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra smiled at him. “Azure Wrath.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Y-yes…” The man swallowed, looking up at the dragon.
“Begging your forgiveness, Azure Wrath, but they must be cooked first, or they
will not taste the way you have come to enjoy. We must bake them and glaze
them, others must be smoked…” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I did not ask for the story of How Ham is Made.”
Galvarys snapped his jaws. The man retreated a few steps. “I asked how long
until I will be feasting upon it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hours at least, my scaly Lord.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Scaly Lord?” The dragon tossed his spiral-horned
head, snorting. “That’s imbecilic. I do not call you my skin-covered subject.
And stop bending over all the time. I cannot tell if you’ve spotted a coin upon
the ground or you’re about to retch. Azure Wrath will suffice. Or Lord. Or Lord
Azure Wrath. Yes, that one.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes…Lord Azure Wrath.” The man straightened from his
bow, and turned back to the crowd. Elyra squeezed the cook’s shoulder and
whispered words stolen by the wind. He smiled at her and returned to the crowd.
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Very well.” Galvarys flared his wings and beat the
air to push people back with the gusts. “I shall take my many hams with me when
I leave. In the meantime, I will help myself to your sheep and goats. Minion.”
Elyra turned towards him. “You shall stay here and select your tribute of
clothing, and find me proof that the previous girl is well.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“As you wish, Azure Wrath.” Elyra grinned. Even
Galvarys could recognize the mischief gleaming in her eyes. Seemed his minion
was having as much fun as he was.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys launched himself into the air and swept over
the crowd. Though baring his belly made him nervous, the screams and awed cries
were worth it. Swirling gusts from his beating wings pushed people about, blew
hats from heads and knocked unsuspecting idiots off their feet. He spiraled up
over the village, took a breath, and roared. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra yelled at the villagers below him. The gathered
crowd cheered as if roaring right back to the dragon. Oh, Elyra was good at
this. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">He should have asked for a minion ages ago. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">--------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra wandered the streets of the Village of Rings,
surrounded by a happy crowd. The whole place was like some fairy tale village,
filled with kindly but cunning merchants in charming little stores. A single
street here in this village had more color and character than all the tall,
faceless stone buildings around the Hall of Nobility.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Each shop and tavern she passed had a fanciful name.
Some of her favorites included The Stumbling Dog, Three Empty Cups, and a store
that only sold hats called The Gryphon’s Pride. They had a colorful sign
depicting a smiling gryphon with a big feathery hat made of the same crimson
feathers that lined his spread wings. Elyra giggled at the idea of a gryphon
running a hat store. A store called The Dragon’s Hoard sold all manner of
trinkets and odd little treasures. Its sign depicted a tiny green dragon
sitting atop an immense mountain of assorted junk. The sign would have been
appropriate standing in front of Galvarys’ treasure room. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The whole day went splendidly. Elyra felt like a queen
surrounded by an adoring throng. Between taking the poor girl’s place as
Galvarys’ maiden, and standing up to Mayor Varm, the whole village seemed to
think her a hero, and they all wanted her business. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra scowled. Varm. Yes, she knew that fat bastard.
And unlike Galvarys, Varm knew what it meant among the nobles to call a branded
woman a wench. It meant slave. It meant whore. It meant a person with no value
beyond her duties and whatever sick amusement the nobles took in them. To a branded
woman like Elyra, there was no greater insult.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Helping to put him in his place in front of an entire
village was more satisfying than Elyra could have imagined. Varm was lucky that
was all she did. Elyra was ready to jam her fist into Varm’s nose so hard that
his face would never look the same again. Let the villagers see some ‘wench’
from the city disfigure him just as they’d disfigured her.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Good thing Galvarys stopped her before some poorly
paid bodyguard stepped in to defend Varm and got himself killed by the dragon.
She knew Galvarys had killed men before, but she had not stopped to think about
how quickly he might do so again. Still, Elyra did not think him a creature of
evil. If anything she saw a strange sort of honor in the way he sought to avoid
taking lives. As far as she could tell, he’d only killed in defense or
protection. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra had best work on her temper before she gave the
dragon a reason to defend her. Admittedly, there was a heady empowerment in
having a dragon come to her defense. Hell, aside from her mother, Elyra
couldn’t remember anyone ever standing up her for until now. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The very idea of being defended made her smile as she
roamed from shop to shop. At every turn, tailors proclaimed they had the best
clothes and the finest cloth. Did she prefer something woolen and warm or
flowing and silken? Did she want something sheer to entice the dragon? That one
made her laugh as she tried to explain that the dragon didn’t want sex.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra paid a visit to every shop she could. She
wandered among simple framework stalls with oilcloth tarp roofs. She ventured
into a line of wooden shops with charming thatched roofs. She even found
herself in the town’s most expensive clothier, located in an elegant
stone-brick building with an arched tile roof. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra tried to select something from every vendor. She
picked up a blouse here, a skirt there, a bolt of cloth, a dress, some
breeches, on and on. She chose things mostly in Galvarys’ colors but also
purchased a gray blouse to match her eyes, and a green skirt that reminded her
of the pine forests. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In the fancy clothier, the master tailor insisted on a
few outfits designed just for her. His assistants measured her in every way and
scribbled all the numbers down. Elyra selected colors and fabrics she liked,
and the tailor asked for her preferences. Elyra requested something
comfortable, something elegant, and something suitable for relaying a dragon’s
demands. The tailor promised to have them ready for the next time she and the
dragon visited. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Who knew being a dragon’s minion could lead to so many
gifts?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra stopped in front of a tavern named The Drunken
Dragon. It had a beautiful front awning designed to look like dragon’s wings
sweeping out over the front doors, and a wooden dragon head staring down at the
street. Elyra’s entourage swept her into the tavern and insisted on buying her
a drink. Not that she resisted. She’d never had the pleasure of having a drink
in a tavern. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The whole place smelled of beer and pipe smoke that
hung like haze in the air. The crowd urged Elyra towards the bar. The long,
pale-spruce countertop was stained and scuffed by years of drink and use. A
collection of mismatched stools cut from thick pine tree trunks then sanded
till smooth lined the counter. Elyra settled on a stool and looked over the
expansive selections of barrels, flasks and bottles arranged on shelves behind
the bar. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Someone called for the barkeep’s best mead. The
barkeep thrust a wooden mug into her hands, filled with sweet-smelling amber
liquid. Elyra sipped it, and her eyes rolled back at the taste. Somehow both
sweet and tart, like honey coated green-apples. Elyra’s cheeks flushed and her
body warmed after just a few wonderful mouthfuls. She’d better go easy on it. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra gazed around the tavern. Surely Galvarys would
have loved the dragon-based theme. The booths were carved to look like dragon
scales. All the lamps were held aloft by iron dragon claws, and the hearth was
carefully assembled from stone bricks to give the impression the fire was
burning in some dragon’s maw. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">An entire wall was painted with a mural of a big blue
dragon passed out drunk amidst an ocean of empty mugs and barrels. Laughing
children used the dragon’s tail as a slide. A man had a foot upon the
unconscious dragon’s head as if claiming he’d conquered the beast who’d drunk
himself into a stupor. Elyra giggled, wondering if Galvarys would be amused or
insulted. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">People approached to ask questions as she sipped her
mead. Was Azure Wrath pleased with their village? Was he still angry about the
last girl? Had he slain any bandits lately? What sort of things did he make her
do, what was his home like, how did he treat her? Elyra answered them the best
she could and chose her words carefully. She didn’t want to give away his
secrets.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra spotted a familiar face. It was the man who’d
hugged her for taking his daughter’s place. He stood near the back of the crowd
in simple brown clothing smeared with dirt. He had a sturdy build and plain
features, but the hug he’d given her the other day showed her the warmth in his
heart. Elyra beckoned to him, and he made his way through the crowd after
momentary hesitation. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hello there.” The man’s voice was soft. “Didn’t think
you’d be back so soon. I’m glad you look well!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You didn’t expect me to?” Elyra laughed and set her
mug down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I…” The man wrung his blistered, calloused hands. “I
didn’t know what to expect. When…when they took my girl…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra put a hand upon his shoulder, smiling. “Shush.
What’s done is done, and your girl is safe, right?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, she’s safe.” He returned Elyra’s smile, tension
draining from his face. “Thanks to the dragon, much as I hate to admit it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, thanks to the dragon.” Let him think about that
a while. “He came here to check on her, you know.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The man shook his head, chuckling in disbelief. “So I
heard. The mayor’s men came looking for us, practically begging us to go tell
the dragon we hadn’t been punished.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And have you?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No. But if not for the dragon’s warning…” He stumbled
over his words a moment, knitting his fingers together. “Did he…really…is that
why…” He took a breath, and composed himself. “Did he really come here to check
on my girl?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra ran a hand against the scuffed spruce counter as
she gathered her thoughts. She wasn’t sure how to answer that. Galvarys might
not wish her to share her own opinions, but she wanted to help improve the
dragon’s image.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra smiled, bowing her head. “Yes, the dragon came
here to make sure your daughter was alright.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That’s…” The man’s sigh turned into nervous laugh.
“Hard to believe. It’s like some strange dream I fear I’ll wake from any
moment, and my daughter will be gone. He…he hasn’t…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“He has neither harmed me, nor asked me for anything
the least bit lewd.” That much was the honest truth. “He’s treated me very
well.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The man grinned, ruffling his hair with his hand.
“Half the town seems to think he has you under some kind of spell. The rest
think you’re a conduit to gaining his favor.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I am neither,” Elyra replied, grinning. “I’m just
embracing my new role to improve my life. I hope to better your lives, and the
dragon’s life as well.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The man smiled, and shook his head. He rested his
hands on the countertop, scratching at a scuff mark in the wood. “Would it be
alright if my daughter met you? She had a gift for you to give the dragon,
and…I didn’t have the heart to tell her he won’t want it. Maybe you could let
her down easy?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why let her down at all?” Elyra giggled. “My Lord
loves tribute gifts. Where is she?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Across the street.” He gazed around at the crowd, a
scowl creasing his face. “She’s still a bit shy after what happened.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Completely understandable.” Elyra thanked the barkeep
for the mead, and then rose from the stool. She called for a moment of quiet,
and then addressed the crowd. “I’m going to need a moment of privacy, please.
Could someone please pack away all the things I’ve bought and take them to the
plaza?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Some of the onlookers went their separate ways, others
headed to the plaza with her new belongings. A few more remained behind to
watch her from a distance.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">While Elyra waited for the crowd to thin out, she
grinned at the girl’s father. “I’m Elyra, by the way.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’m Khor.” When the tavern was nearly empty, Khor
headed outside, glancing back at Elyra. “Thank you so much for this.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No problem at all.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A small park lay across the street from The Drunken
Dragon. Immense, blue-green spruce trees stood sentinel over wooden benches.
Planters made from baked clay and lined with blue and red flowers surrounded
each tree. The girl sat on a bench in the shade. When she saw Elyra, her eyes
lit up. She started to rise, and Elyra gestured for her to stay seated. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hello there!” Elyra waved as she walked up.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hello.” The girl gave Elyra a shy smile. “You’re…his
maiden, right?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra grinned. “I am. His minion, really.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Minion?” The girl giggled. “You mean like a bad guy
in some story?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Close enough.” Elyra’s smile grew. “He fancies
himself a legendary villain, but I think he’s more of a misunderstood hero.”
She gestured at the bench. “Do you mind if I sit down?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No, of course not.” The girl scooted to the side of
the bench. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra settled in next to the girl. Poor thing didn’t
look half as old as Elyra. She had pale skin, and sandy-brown hair, and her
cheekbones were higher than Elyra’s. Her eyes were the color of honey. She’d be
a beautiful woman before long, but she wasn’t there yet. She wore a simple,
loose fitting dress the color of the sky, and sandals of braided rope. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra leaned forward, peering at her feet. “You like
sandals? So do I! Do you know, they put me in boots to go meet the dragon, and
I took them off to put my own sandals back on.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The girl giggled, covering her mouth. “You did? They
gave me shoes, but…I lost them.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh, that’s alright. If you want more shoes, I can ask
the dragon to have new ones bought for you.” The girl giggled again and Elyra
smiled at her. “The dragon is sorry he scared you, you know.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“He is?” That sat the girl back. She leaned against
the wooden armrest, her honey-toned eyes wide. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why, he’s here today to ensure your safety.” Elyra
hardened her voice. “You have been safe, right? No one has bothered you since
he brought you back?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">She shook her head, smiling. “No one at all. They even
made sure Papa found a job. He’d been looking ever so hard, too.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Excellent!” Elyra glanced at the girl’s father for
confirmation. He nodded, and Elyra turned her attention back to the girl. “My
name is Elyra. Do you have a name?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The girl beamed. “Of course I have a name. It’s
Amell.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That’s a lovely name, Amell.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank you.” Amell fidgeted with her blue dress then
twined her hair around a finger. “Does…the dragon have a name?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“He does, but he only lets special people know it.”
Elyra poked the girl’s nose, grinning. “Since he’s sorry he frightened you, he
told me I can tell you his name.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Really?” Amell perked up. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, if you promise not to tell anyone else. Dragons
take their names very seriously.” As if she was some dragon expert. “Do you
promise?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Amell nodded. Elyra leaned in and whispered into the
girl’s ear. Amell blinked and giggled as Elyra pulled back. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That’s a funny name.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra waggled a single finger. “Just remember. Don’t
tell anyone.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I won’t,” Amell said. “I wouldn’t want him to be angry
with me.” She stuck her tongue out. “He must like you more than he liked me!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“He likes you just fine.” Elyra eased an arm over the
back of the bench. A cool breeze rustled the spruce boughs over her head,
tinting the air with their aromatic scent. “Besides, you didn’t really want to
live with a cranky old dragon, did you?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The girl scrunched her face, and shook her head. “No.”
She glanced up at her father, then lowered her voice into a whisper. “Does he
make you…do things…for him?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra shook her head. “Not at all. In fact, after he
got done carting me around like a piece of luggage, he’s treated me quite
respectfully.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The girl laughed, tilting her head back to stare up
into the trees when birdsong filtered down. “He carried me that way, too.” A few
strands of hair swayed in the breeze. “What’s he like?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra leaned her head against the bench. “You know, I
really think he just wants to be remembered.” An image of a rusted, blood
stained sword flickered in her mind. “I think he’s lonely, to be honest.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Lonely?” The girl leaned forward. “How can he be
lonely? He’s a dragon.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra rolled the hem of her blouse between her
fingers. She glanced up at Khor. “Have either of you ever seen another dragon?”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No.” The girl shook her head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Her father answered a moment later, the ghost of a
scowl tugging at his lips. “Nor have I.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Then you know
why he might feel lonely.” Elyra closed her eyes for a moment, the dragon’s
voice drifting through her head. <i>I have killed more men than I have ever
seen dragons. </i>“I’d be lonely in his place.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So would I.” Amell stared up through the spruce
boughs. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Khor wrung his hands. “I just thought…well, I’m sure
there are other dragons, somewhere. Surely he can fly far enough that he sees
them now and then.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’re probably right.” Elyra stood up and stretched
when she heard distant wing beats. “Just remember, there’s more to him than you
know.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Khor glanced at his daughter. “I’ve already learned
that.” He smiled. “Amell, you have something for her?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh!” Amell jumped up from the bench and scurried
around it. She picked something up from where it hung on a bough, and returned
to Elyra. “I…I made this for him.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The girl held out a large tiara woven of rose stems,
ribbon, and lace. The roses were a rare blue shade. Their long stems were
trimmed of thorns and braided together into a circlet. Blue and black ribbons
and silver lace were all woven in amidst the rose stems. Streamers of ribbon
hung from it. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You made that?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” Amell’s hands trembled. “I…I wanted to…to thank
him. For…for bringing me home safe.” She gave Elyra a shy smile. “Do you think
he’ll like? It’s…it’s silly, isn’t it.” Amell lowered the circlet, and her
father squeezed her shoulder. “A dragon wouldn’t want such a thing.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra held out her hand. “Oh, Amell, he will love it.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You really think so?” Amell passed Elyra the tiara,
her face brightening. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I do, so long as you bestow it upon him yourself.”
Galvarys wanted proof she was safe, right? Maybe this would make the girl’s
day, and make the dragon look good in the process.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Amell’s eyes widened. She stepped back against her
father. “I…I don’t know…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“There is no more meaningful gesture of thanks than
one given in person.” Elyra worked the circlet around her hands. “If you’ve the
courage, he’d appreciate that more than you know. And your father will be
there, of course.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Khor tensed for a moment, then squeezed his daughter’s
shoulder. “I’d not mind a chance to thank him myself. I doubt he hears those
words often.” He smiled at his daughter. “What do you think, Dove?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Amell swallowed and glanced between Elyra and her
father. Galvarys wheeled in the sky, and Amell tilted her head back to watch
him. “You really think he’s lonely?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I do.” Elyra grit her teeth. Better make sure the
girl didn’t say the wrong thing. “But he’d feel ever so embarrassed if you said
as much. It’s a secret, like his name.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Amell nodded and took a breath. “I think I’d like to
try.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Good! He did hope to see you.” Elyra passed the tiara
back. “I think if you gave him this yourself, it would warm his old heart.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’ll try.” The girl accepted the tiara, smiling as
her father hugged her.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Wonderful.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra tracked Galvarys through the sky until he
vanished beyond the buildings as he landed. She covered her ears, and gestured
for Amell and Khor to do the same. When Galvarys roared, Amell grinned at
Elyra.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Amell lowered her hands after the roar faded. “It’s
not so bad when you’re not right under him.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“No it isn’t.”
Elyra chuckled. “I hope his hams are ready.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">For some reason, the mention of hams made Amell giggle
like crazy.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra asked Amell and Khor to lead her back to the
plaza at the center of town. When they reached the plaza, the guards began to
clear a path for her through the gathered crowd towards the blue dragon seated
at the plaza’s center. Elyra smiled at the guards, thanked them as she passed.
They weren’t as intimidating as some of the steel-plated guards back in the
Hall of Nobility. Nor were they as impressive as the soldiers who protected the
occasional visitors bearing blue and gray banners with a large stone keep on
them. But for a merchant city out in the country, these men wore more than
enough armor. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra turned to Amell and Khor. “You two wait here and
I’ll call for you shortly.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra strode through the crowd towards the dragon. A
group of vendors surrounded him, extolling the virtues of the various hams set
upon a large rack. The wind carried the scents of rich ham, sweet glaze, and
pungent wood smoke. Elyra’s stomach rumbled. Good thing one of those hams was
hers. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“There’s my minion.” Galvarys rumbled when he spotted
Elyra. “I trust your demands were met?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Indeed, my Lord.” She pointed out the collection of
packs and boxes lashed together, waiting at the edge of the crowd. “My clothing
is there, when we are ready to leave, along with a box of sweets. The other
things will be ready for our next visit.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Good.” The dragon cocked his head. “We shall visit
again when the next tribute is due.” Then the dragon glanced at the cooks who’d
no doubt gathered in hopes of hearing him praise the many hams they’d spent the
afternoon preparing. He waved his paw at them. “Pack up those hams. I am ready
to put this place behind me.” He ignored the gasps and sagging shoulders the
chefs displayed, and turned his attention back to Elyra. “Have you heard about
that girl?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra grinned. “I have, my Lord. She is safe and
healthy. In fact, she’s brought you a tribute.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Really?” The dragon lifted his head, brassy voice
rising in pitch with curiosity.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“A gift of thanks for your kind treatment.” Elyra
raised her voice so the crowd could hear. “May she present it to you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Certainly.” Galvarys curled his tail around his paws.
“Call her forward.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Amell.” Elyra waved her hand as she called out. “Come
forth, Amell.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">As Amell came forward, she seemed to consider each
step before she took it. Her honey eyes were wide and locked on Galvarys the
entire time. Khor walked at her side, a hand on her shoulder. Amell’s knuckles
stood out white around the circlet.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The crowd fell silent as Amell neared the dragon.
Elyra’s stomach tried to turn itself inside out. When the girl stopped before
the dragon, Elyra gave her a sweet smile and gestured at Galvarys. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“My Lord Azure Wrath welcomes you to his majestic
presence.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hello again, Girl.” The dragon’s voice was soft and
with none of his usual arrogance. “Have you been well?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Y-yes.” Amell stammered, but gave the dragon a shy
smile. “Everyone’s treated me nicely.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Good.” Galvarys glanced at the crowd then turned his
piercing silver eyes on Khor. “And you? They have not caused you trouble?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No, Dragon.” The man tensed his jaw and amended
himself. “Lord Dragon. They made sure I found a job, in fact.” He squeezed his
daughter’s shoulder. “I wanted to thank you in person. For bringing her back.”
He stared down at his daughter, his voice quavering. “She’s…she’s everything to
me, and…I thought…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You thought wrong.” The dragon flicked his spined
tail. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The man sighed, staring at his dirty boots. “Seems I
have.” He lifted his face, forced himself to meet Galvarys’ gaze. “Thank you,
Azure Wrath. Thank you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You are welcome.” Galvarys smiled down at the girl.
She backed away a few paces at the sight of so many fangs, but held out her
circlet for him. The dragon stretched his neck a little, sniffing at it. “What
is this?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“A thank you.” Amell’s words registered as little more
than a frightened squeak. “I…I made it. For you.” She looked down at the
circlet, then up at the dragon. “It’s…your colors.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra watched silver gears turn in Galvarys’ eyes. Any
moment now he’d blurt out something honest yet heartbreaking. It smells funny.
I do not like flowers. Dragons do not wear ribbons. It will not fit. It holds
no value. Go toss it in the nearest latrine where it belongs. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is beautiful.” There was genuine honesty in the
dragon’s voice.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys’ words brought a smile to Amell’s face that
could have warmed even the cruelest noble’s heart. “You really think so?” She
beamed, her eyes alight.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon tilted his head, blinking. Galvarys sounded
nearly in awe. “No human has ever made me a gift before.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What about all your tributes?” The girl tilted her
head, happiness shone across her face. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Those are part of a truce.” Galvarys sniffed at the
circlet. “They are not gifts borne of kindness created just for me.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The girl stepped towards Galvarys. Her smile never
left her lips. “You really like it?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Absolutely.” The dragon lowered his head towards her.
“You may put it around my horn.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Amell stretched her arms and slipped the circlet
around Galvarys’ spiraling black horn. It fell down the length of his horn and
hung against the side of his head. “Thank you for bringing me home.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You are welcome.” Galvarys lifted his head. “And
thank you for the gift. I shall cherish it and put it with my favorite
treasures.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Amell bubbled with laughter as she ran back to her
father. She hugged him, burying her face against the brown sleeve of his tunic.
The older man put an arm around his daughter, unable to help but share in her
happiness. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“We won’t forget this, Lord Azure Wrath.” The man
tried to fight his smile, glancing away. “I wish I could offer you more than my
gratitude.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Remember that when next you hear someone speak ill of
me.” Galvarys lifted his spines, staring at Khor. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I will.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra held back laughter when the circlet fluttered
and flopped against the dragon’s head. Galvarys flared his spines, they caught
the circlet and lifted it. When the circlet flopped over his eye and he had to
toss his head to move it, she couldn’t fight her laughter any longer. She
turned away, covering her mouth.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Quit your giggling, Minion.” Galvarys snorted. “If
you’re through gossiping with the locals, I am ready to return home.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, my Lord. Let me get one thing first.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra dashed over to where the cooks were packing up
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ham. At least she’d have something to eat on the way home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Home. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Until she met the dragon, Elyra never felt as though
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">She had one now. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra smiled as she returned to Galvarys. “Let’s go
home, then</span></div>
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<![endif]-->The Wilder Landshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09024638755887735262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3106716999918755903.post-52409931576636171392014-11-21T17:03:00.000-08:002014-11-24T17:08:41.477-08:00Chapter Eight<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Chapter Eight</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Though Elyra’s second flight on dragon back was just
as joyful as the first, she was more than ready to be home by the time they
reached Galvarys’ fortress. Hours spent riding upon a dragon’s back and walking
city streets left her body aching in unfamiliar ways. She’d relished the ride
but hoped her body would adjust quickly so she wouldn’t be so sore next time.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys swept in over the rotting wooden posts that
marked where a wall once stood. He dropped crates and packs to the grass where
they tumbled and rolled to a stop. Then the dragon touched down, trotted a few
paces and dropped to his belly so Elyra could dismount. She swung her leg over,
and hopped down onto the grassy expanse. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra pressed her hands to the small of her back. “I
hope you’re willing to let me ride you often.” She groaned as she arched her
sore back. “My body needs to get used to it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I see no reason to deny that request.” The dragon
turned away from her, padding back to the boxes and packs. He sniffed and
nudged the crates with his indigo snout. “Let us eat ham now.” </span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed. “Let us eat ham indeed.” Elyra joined
the dragon in examining the crates strewn across the mesa. “I hope you’ve not
ruined our treats.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Food is not fragile.” Galvarys watched her, cocking
his head. “Is it?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“This food is soft and easily smashed.” Elyra found
the box she wanted and searched for a way to open it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys settled against the sun-warmed grass, and
rolled to his side. He stretched his black-striped hind legs in front of his
belly, with his wings draped behind him. He slammed a front paw against the
crate holding the carefully packed hams. The crack of splintering wood made
Elyra wince. Broken pieces flew in all directions. The dragon picked through
the rubble and selected a ham. He sunk his claws in, sniffed at it, and licked
at the sweet glaze. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra shook her head. “There are easier ways to open
that.” Elyra drew her knife, and slipped the blade through the simple bindings
holding the box closed. She tossed the bits of rope aside, sheathed her knife,
and eased the wooden top away from the box. “See?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon looked at his paw, then at the shattered
box that lay before him. “My way was easier.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Your way was messier.” Elyra pulled some parchment
away, smiling. “Ah! We’re in luck. They’re a bit smashed but not bad. Do you
like cream rolls and honey cakes?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys stripped the meat from the hambone with his
teeth, then tossed the bone aside and reached for another ham. “I do not
understand those words in that combination.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra carried the box to the dragon. “I’ll show you.”
She kicked aside some broken wood and lowered herself to the ground near his
various hams. Elyra winced as she settled down. “Think I overdid it today.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You are in pain?” The dragon lifted his frilled ears.
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Just a bit sore.” Elyra flashed the dragon a sheepish
grin. “I did start the day by bouncing off of you and landing on my…well,
around you I suppose I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">can</i> say ass,
can’t I?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys smirked, fangs glinting in the late sunlight.
“You may say whatever you wish.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Good to know.” Elyra folded her legs. “At least it
was easier to dismount than it was to mount you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Mount me?” Galvarys lifted his spines, grinning at
her. “Do you know what this means among dragons?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No…” Elyra blinked, then went wide-eyed. Fire rushed
to her ears. She jabbed a finger in the air at the dragon. “I mean yes! So
don’t say it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Just asking,” Galvarys said. “You haven’t the right
parts, anyway.” The dragon lowered his head to peer into the crate. “What have
you brought me? This smells delicious.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is delicious.” Elyra wondered if all dragons had a
mind like his. Sex one moment, food the next. Then again, that wasn’t so unlike
the minds of men. Elyra pulled a half-flattened roll of pastry from the box.
White cream leaked at both ends. “This is a cream roll.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon plucked the treat from her hand and popped
the whole thing into his snout. It was gone in moments, but at least the rumble
that ensued sounded quite pleased. “You’re right. Delicious. What else?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Honey cakes.” Elyra retrieved two of them. The
swirled rolls of sweet dough were baked, coated in honey icing and dusted with
cinnamon. Elyra offered Galvarys one and took a bite of the other. The sweet
and spicy flavor filled her mouth, and she groaned. “Ohh, these are good.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys took the other honey cake with his teeth.
Elyra tensed, but never felt the dragon’s teeth against her skin. She took
another bite as Galvarys ate his own in a single gulp. If not for the funny
little trill he made, she would have wondered if he even tasted it. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I shall take that noise to mean you enjoyed it.”
Elyra spoke around a mouthful of pastry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“More.” The dragon tried to push his muzzle into the
box. Elyra swatted him on the nose with her free hand. Galvarys yelped and
jerked his head back. He glared at her, baring his fangs. “I said more!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“In a moment.” Given that she’d gotten away with
hurling a goblet at his head, she doubted he was going to devour her for a
little swat. “Eat your hams first.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I want treats,” the dragon said. The low, gravely
rumble in his voice sounded like he was sulking. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And earlier all you could think about was ham.” Elyra
watched him as she chewed another mouthful of honey cake. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon pawed at one of his hams, then picked it
up. He stared at it and pinned his ears back. Bits of grass clung to the ham
but did not dissuade Galvarys from devouring it. He turned his head, peering
down at Elyra’s crate of treats again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra finished her cake and dusted off her hands.
“You’re not used to being denied, are you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of course not.” Galvarys arched his neck. He flared
his spiny frills, lifting and stretching the flower and ribbon circlet he still
wore. “I am a dragon. When I want something, I take it, or demand that it be
given to me. Now give me those treats.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’d seem a lot more threatening if you didn’t have
flowers on your head.” Elyra giggled. She pulled out a cream roll for herself
and pushed the crate towards the dragon. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is tribute from a loyal subject.” Galvarys buried
most of his muzzle in the crate. The wood shifted back and forth, creaking as
the dragon worked his jaws and tongue around inside it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That isn’t what you said to the girl.” Elyra licked
some cream from the end of the pastry roll, then bit into it. “You told her--” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I know what I told her.” The dragon’s voice was
muffled by pastry and wood. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Her gift really touched you, didn’t it.” Elyra took a
bite of her cream roll, watching the dragon rock the crate back and forth. The
flower tiara shifted against his head. “I’m glad. I was afraid you’d break her
heart. I think it’s sweet you were concerned for her.” Elyra wiped her mouth.
“You’re ignoring me, aren’t you?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Attempting to.” The dragon growled. He lifted his
snout and took the whole box with him. He lowered his head again, growling
within it. “I do not wish to talk about what transpired with that terrified
waif.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not so terrified today.” Elyra finished her cream
roll and licked her fingers clean. “No one’s ever thanked you before, have
they?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I said I do not wish to talk about it!” Galvarys
glared at her over the box. He put a paw on the crate and tugged his head back,
but could not pull his muzzle free. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra giggled. “You’re stuck in the box, aren’t you?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I am temporarily inconvenienced, that is all.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon lifted his head. The box came with him. The
wood bulged at the top where it was stuck against the widest portion of his
muzzle. Galvarys shook his head. The box rattled but did not come free. He
lifted a paw and unsheathed his claws. As he dug his claws into the wood, Elyra
could just see him accidentally cutting his nose open. Galvarys seemed to reach
the same conclusion and set his paw down. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys’ spines sagged against his head in humiliated
defeat. “I may be a little stuck.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra rose. Everything from her rump down ached in
silent protest. “Perhaps you need a little help.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon glanced away, his ears and frills went
purple. The box rattled around his snout. “Only a little.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I won’t even make you ask.” Elyra walked to his head,
examining the box. “Sturdy thing, isn’t it?” She smiled at the dragon, patting
the wooden box wedged around his snout. “I’ll pull it my way, you pull your
head the other way.” She held a finger out for his attention. “Slowly. Don’t
just start yanking your head around. Slow and gradual.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Just get this damn thing off my face.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra put her hands on the dragon’s face above the
box. She ran her fingers across warm, pebbly scales till she touched wood.
Elyra pulled the box towards herself as Galvarys pulled his head the other way.
After a momentary impasse, the wood creaked across his scales. Galvarys cringed
and Elyra hoped it wasn’t pinching anything sensitive. All at once the whole
box popped loose. The dragon’s head jerked backwards and Elyra stumbled a few
paces before she caught her balance. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“There. That wasn’t so bad.” Elyra set the box down.
Laughter cascaded from her when she saw all the cream, crumbs and honey icing
that coated the dragon’s muzzle. “You look like a cake!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I do not.” The dragon snorted and tried to lick the
icing off his face. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You do so.” Elyra wiped some of the cream from his
muzzle and showed him her hand. “You’ve got this all over your face.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I still do not resemble a baked treat.” Galvarys
lowered his head and licked her fingers clean. His tongue was hot velvet
against her fingers. “However, I feel water may be required to properly clean
myself.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It will. You look like some hatchling about to get
yelled at by his mother for eating the entire cake she just baked.” Elyra
giggled to herself at the idea of a dragon baking a cake as she wiped the drool
from her fingers.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys stiffened. Pain flickered in his eyes, cold,
shining and wet. He blinked it away, pawed at the earth, and pushed himself to
his feet. “Dragons do not make cakes.” He strode towards his fortress, glancing
back at her. “I am going to place this gift amongst my trophies. Then I shall
take a bath before slumber. Do you wish to join me?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra watched him walk away, thinking about the look
in his eyes. She rubbed her forehead, sighing. Whatever it was, it hadn’t
lingered. A moment of pain, a flicker of memory, and that was that. It was
probably for the best. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, Galvarys, I think I will.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys strode through his home, pushing aside
memories. Season by season, year by year, decade by decade, it was a little
easier to push the pain aside. A little easier to forget it was ever there at
all. Legends did not linger in regret over things that could not be changed or
wallow in pain. Legends let that pain make them stronger. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys padded through his sleeping chamber. He
glanced at the rolled up tapestry, considering tossing it over the cliff just
like the sword. He pinned his spines back. No, if it was gone his gaze would
simply linger at the empty spot where it once laid. The emptiness would be as
painful a symbol as the sword was. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys snarled an old draconic curse under his
breath and moved on. He paused for a drink at the burbling fountain. The cool
water cleared the sticky-sweet taste of pastry and ham from his mouth. When his
thirst was quenched, he walked upstairs.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">On the staircase, he stretched his wings till their
tips brushed stone. His minion was right, the staircase was larger than humans
would require. It seemed unlikely he was the first large creature to call this
place home. If a dragon lived here before, it was probably as a slave, forced
to help build his own prison. Galvarys pulled his wings back, wondering if it
would be better to live as a slave than to die an agonizing death. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Dragons were not easy to kill, and when humans did
succeed in slaying them, it was never a quick death. Galvarys made his truce in
part because he did not want to end up broken and bleeding. Helpless.
Screaming.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Then the silence. The final, terrible silence. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">No. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys was happy to have his truce. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">For any humans who broke it, the only answer was
death. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Those who slayed dragons deserved nothing else. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys snarled as he walked to his trophy room. He
was supposed to be forgetting that sort of thing. His truce had lasted decades,
the villages would not break it now. His enemies were fewer than ever before.
He had much less to fear these days. With Elyra’s help, his legend would grow
until he could never be forgotten.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys snorted, glancing down the empty hall. He
lifted a hind paw to scratch at an itch beneath his rib-scaling as he thought
about his minion. Elyra treated him as far more than some monster to be slain.
While she showed him <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">almost</i> all the
respect he desired, it was not respect born from fear. He knew Elyra was not
waiting for a chance to plunge a blade in his belly while he slept. In fact,
Elyra treated him as someone she wanted to call…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Perhaps not a friend, but someone she hoped would
respect her in turn. Respect seemed as new to Elyra as her treasured
independence. Galvarys saw no reason not to show her that deference. That was
rare for him. There were not many humans he saw reason to respect but Elyra
deserved it more than she seemed to realize. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">So did Amell. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon lifted his paw and eased the tiara she’d
made him away from his horn. He held it out to examine it in a bit of sunlight
streaming through the broken panes of an old window in the stone. The sight of
the rose and ribbon circlet sent warm waves rolling through him to wash away
the cold pain of old memories. That damn girl made something from her own heart
to give to a dragon. Not because he demanded it, not to earn his favor, but
simply because she wished it. Because she wanted to thank him for returning her
home, safe and sound.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">His good deed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Maybe the only good deed he’d ever done. The effort Amell
put into the little circlet touched even the dragon’s armored heart. Galvarys
smiled at the tiara. He pressed his nose against it, inhaling the sweet scent
of roses. They still smelled fresh. Amell’s scent clung to it, bits of perfume
he still remembered. A gift of heartfelt gratitude that she made for an old
beast most of her village thought a monster they bribed for protection. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It really made you happy, didn’t it?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s voice startled Galvarys. He jumped and flared
his wings, dropping the circlet. His spines all stood on end. Galvarys swung
his head, hissing at Elyra. “Don’t do that!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra winced. “Sorry!” Elyra slipped past him and
picked up the tiara. “I was afraid you’d hate it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys struggled to flatten his spines even as a
startled adrenaline pulse kept them upright. “Just because I am a dragon does
not mean I cannot appreciate a heartfelt gesture.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra carried the tiara into the dragon’s trophy room.
She turned a slow circle, gazing at the many pieces of his life decorating his
most private chamber. “I know. I just feared you’d accidentally break her
heart.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys winced, splaying his ears. “You need not make
it sound as though I do not have a heart of my own.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I didn’t mean it that way.” Elyra’s voice dropped.
She turned towards him, and with a smile placed the circlet back around his
spiral horn. “You’ve more of a heart beneath all those scales than you’d ever
care to let on.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon cocked his head, peering at Elyra. “I am
not embarrassed by the ability to find genuine gestures touching.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed, and Galvarys found himself smiling. Her
laughter was one of the prettier sounds he’d heard a human make. “Good. I just
thought you weren’t the sort to talk about your feelings. Or admit you have
them.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why? Do I seem dishonest?” The dragon cocked his
head. What was Elyra on about?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not at all.” Elyra’s eyes searched his own. “In fact
you’re far more open and blunt than I expected.” She set a hand on his cheek.
Her touch was warm and pleasant. “I feared you’d tell her dragons hated flowers
and never wore tiaras. When you told her you thought it was beautiful, I
believed you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i> beautiful.”
The dragon turned his head for Elyra to see it. Perhaps she had not had a good
look. “Do you not think so?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra burst into laughter. While her chiming laughter
made Galvarys smile, it also made him scrunch up the pebbly scales of his
muzzle in confusion. His twisted his ears back. Why was she laughing?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh, Galvarys.” Elyra stroked his neck while his head
was turned. “You’re something, alright. Yes, it’s beautiful. It’s just that…”
Elyra trailed off and stared at him. Her red hair cascaded around her face. The
dragon liked her hair, red like flame and just as unpredictable. “I don’t think
I could really explain myself without insulting you. And I don’t want to do
that.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No.” Galvarys smirked at her. “You do not.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra smiled at him and patted his shoulder. “I’m glad
you liked it, anyway.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys settled onto his haunches, curling his tail
around his paws. He eased the circlet from his horn and stared at it. “I did
not expect her to remember me as anything more than some terrible moment in her
life best left forgotten.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra touched the tiara as it sat upon his paw. While
her fingers roamed the rose stems and ribbons, her eyes wandered the dragon’s
body. Her gaze searched his scales as if seeking some crack through which to
see his heart. He felt as though she was trying to see through him, to catch a
glimpse of his very soul. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra lifted her face, her gray eyes shone silver as
they mirrored Galvarys’ gaze. “Is that what you do with your worst moments?
Lock them away, and spend the rest of your life trying to forget them?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Is that not what you do?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra sighed, glancing at the circlet. “I suppose
talking to people about the things that haunt you isn’t really something a
dragon would do.” She rubbed her thumb against a smooth spot on the rose stem
where a thorn was carefully trimmed away. “Then again, I’m one to talk. I was
never comfortable discussing my pains with people, either.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys shrugged his wings. “I need not explain my
sorrow to validate it any more than I need to express my happiness to prove I
am joyful. The more time I spend dwelling on my most painful moments, the
further into sorrow I will sink. I would sooner forget those memories by
focusing upon what makes me happy.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“But without pain, we cannot truly measure our happiness.”
Elyra held Galvarys’ new treasure out to him, smiling again. “I will not pry
into your life or your memories, Galvarys. But if you decide you want to talk
about anything, I am happy to listen.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I shall bear that in mind.” Galvarys grinned, and gently
took the tiara. “I appreciate your discretion.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Think nothing of it.” Still grinning, Elyra poked the
dragon’s nose. “Now. In the meantime, I should remind you that you’ve still got
cake all over your face.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon blinked. He crossed his eyes, trying to
focus on the end of his own indigo snout. Bits of white cream and light brown
pastry flecked it. “So I do.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’ll help you get cleaned up, if you want.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not if there is soap involved.” Galvarys’ eyes
watered just thinking about it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No soap.” Elyra held up her hands. “It’s just an
offer, since you asked if I wished to join you in the bath.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Very well, I accept. Give me a moment to decide where
to put this.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys gazed around his trophy chamber. The dragon
was thankful Elyra showed the moment reverence through silence, and did not ask
for explanations of his trophies. Many came from victory in battle against
soldiers and dragonslayers. Others were boasts of his great prowess in mating.
He’d be happy to explain those. But a few personal treasures had memories
wrapped around them that were far more painful.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Some days Galvarys could sit for hours going through
his favorite treasures and reliving his own glory. Other days his eyes lingered
upon the wrong reminders till he considered caving the whole damn room in. In
the end, the dragon found the perfect spot for the tiara. He brushed his paw
pads across a pile of dried dragon scales. They’d faded over the years, but
still retained much of their beautiful blue hue. He murmured something under his
breath in draconic and set the circlet atop the scales. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Perfect.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It looks like a great spot.” Elyra smiled at him.
“Was that some kind of dragon prayer you said?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No.” Galvarys snorted. That was not the sort of thing
he did. If there were any Gods to pray to, they did not seem to care about the
fate of dragons. Elyra looked downcast at his clipped reply. So Galvarys
offered her a smile, and waved his paw around the room. “Everything you see
here is a memory. A reminder of some moment in my life.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Would you share one? A happy memory?” Elyra’s face
brightened, curiosity whirling in her gray eyes. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Alright.” She seemed so hopeful the dragon could not
bring himself to let her down. Galvarys’ eyes settled upon the tiara, a smirk
twitched at his muzzle.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not the circlet.” Elyra grinned, waggling a finger at
him.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys grunted. So much for that idea. He gazed
around the room, flicking his tail tip in thought. “Ah!” The dragon grinned,
lifting his ears as he spotted something suitable. “This!” He padded across the
room, stretched his neck and took a trophy in his jaws. Then he turned, and
handed it to Elyra. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra hesitantly took it from his jaws. The trophy was
the skull of a deer, a large buck with a broken set of antlers. She turned it
over in her hands, made a funny face, and then looked up to the dragon for an
explanation. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That is the skull of the first deer I ever slew.”
Galvarys arched his neck. A dragon’s first real hunt was always a proud moment
in his life. “That was the first time I’d ever stalked full-sized prey from the
air. I tracked it, slew it, and ate it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And kept the skull?” Elyra scrunched her whole face
up, handing back the trophy. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of course! It is tradition.” Galvarys grinned. The
memories were still fresh. Throughout their long lives, a dragon’s memories
remained buried but sharp as ever. “My mother was very proud.” He arched his
neck a little more. “She insisted I clean the skull myself, and put it in the
sun to dry.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“In that case, I can see why it’s a pleasant memory
for you.” Elyra handed the skull back, grinning. “Thank you for sharing.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’re welcome.” Galvarys set it back where it came
from. “I assumed you’d prefer that to the trophy I have from the first time I
mounted a female.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra covered her mouth in a vain attempt to stifle
her bubbling giggles. “Why am I not surprised a dragon takes a trophy the first
time he ever has sex.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys cocked his head. He did not understand why
that seemed humorous. “Do humans not find their first mating memorable?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“The less said about my first time, the better.” Elyra
swallowed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Even a dragon could see the storm clouds that gathered
behind her eyes and darkened her expression. She turned her head away. Guilt
tugged at the dragon’s heart. He had not meant to upset her. At least the
darkness was gone from her countenance as quickly as it arrived. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I suppose I wouldn’t put it past a man to keep a sex
trophy.” She waggled her finger at him, her grin returning. “But I think for
most humans, their first time is little more than quick and awkward.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys growled his laughter, flaring his wings. He
pinned his ears back, lowering his head. “If I am truthful, the first mating
for dragons is quick and awkward as well. Mine certainly was. Still, it left me
no less satisfied when I was spent. I felt pride at finally completing the act
just the same.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra giggled again. She made a funny face Galvarys
had seen before but still did not understand, raising a single eyebrow.
“Finally?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys ducked his head further, hot blood rushing to
his nostrils and ears. “Just because a male is old enough to feel the urge does
not mean a female is willing to hoist her tail.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s jaw hung open, her gray eyes widened. “Well,
of course not! They like to be wooed.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” Galvarys licked his nose, trying to ease his
blush. “She required extensive courtship before she would lift her tail and
allow me upon her back.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Probably because you just kept blurting things like
that out.” Elyra sighed, smiling. The light outside was fading, but her gray
eyes sparkled just the same. “Surely even a female dragon wants to be romanced
before she…” She waved her hand in front of the dragon’s nose. “Lifts her
tail.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys cocked his head. He’d never had insights on
human mating habits before. It was oddly fascinating, like catching two prey
animals coupling in the forest. “So you prefer to be romanced before you let a
man mate with you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra scrunched her face. There were those dark clouds
in her eyes again. The dragon pinned his ears back. He was not used to cold
claws of guilt twisting in his belly, but they were there just the same. Just
as before, Elyra brushed off the darkness before it could take hold of her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’ve never been romanced, Galvarys.” Elyra couldn’t
seem to meet his eyes in that moment. Instead, she just gazed around at all his
trophies. “It’s not a privilege the branded servant wenches are allowed.
Though, I admit, given a chance I should love someone to romance me. There’s a
woman back in the Hall, her name is Jadira.” Elyra fiddled with the sleeve of
her blouse. “She’s the only one I ever knew who found love, let alone romance.
They courted for quite some time before she finally took him into her bed.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys suspected Elyra envied this woman, but he
would not ask her to admit it. The dragon stared at his own forepaws. He
unsheathed black claws and scratched little lines in the stone. “I did not mean
to bring up painful memories.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I know. Neither did I, before.” Elyra sighed,
wringing her blouse. “Doesn’t usually bother me. It was just one of those
moments. But your concern is…touching.” Her face reddened. “You’ve already
shown me more of that than anyone back at the Hall.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“We share this, then.” Galvarys lifted his paw,
gesturing at her with still-unsheathed claws. “No one really cares what happens
to either of us.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra gently touched the dragon’s foreleg while he
held it out. For some reason, her touch made Galvarys smile. She looked up at
him and shared his smile. “We have each other now, at least.” Elyra stroked his
limb’s black-striped scutes. “Dragon and minion, watching each other’s backs.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” Galvarys murmured and rumbled. “Your touch
feels nice.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra ran her hand against his foreleg for a little
while. Galvarys was almost disappointed when she stopped. He set his leg down
and licked his muzzle. His sticky scales tasted sweet. Oh. Right. The cakes.
Galvarys worked his tongue back and forth across his snout, trying to clean
himself. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Enjoying yourself, Dragon?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not as much as I enjoyed those cakes.” The dragon
rose back to all fours and walked to the door. “Come. You shall help me wash.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed behind him. “It’s nice to hear that and
know that actual washing is the only sort of extra attention you shall
require.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Careful, Girl.” Galvarys flattened his wings and
grinned at her over his back. “You’ll put ideas in my head.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’ll shut my mouth, then.” Elyra patted his tail. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I think you’d better.” In a flash of movement
Galvarys curled his tail around Elyra’s middle, careful not to poke her with
his spines. “After all, you did promise to allow me to watch you undress.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hey!” Elyra slapped his scales. “I didn’t know you
could do that with your tail.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys smiled, ambling down the hallway. “I am full
of surprises.”</span></div>
The Wilder Landshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09024638755887735262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3106716999918755903.post-60775966084259941752014-11-19T17:11:00.000-08:002014-11-24T17:15:59.473-08:00Chapter Nine<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Chapter Nine</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys padded down the hallway with his minion
coiled in his tail. The foul, sickly-sweet odor of rotting meat smothered the
hall near the pantry. Galvarys scrunched his blue, pebbly-scaled nose. Perhaps
he should throw out that deer carcass out before its rotten stench invaded any
more of his home. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It really stinks in this hallway,” Elyra said,
lifting a hand from his tail to pinch her nose. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys snorted, flicking his central crest back. “I
hadn’t noticed.” </span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">With Elyra in his tail, Galvarys took his time
descending the stairs. He took one step, waited for her to do the same, and
took another. During his lethargic decent, he stared at the steps cut from
stone. A thin layer of pallid green moss clung to the junction of stair and
wall. Scratches and gouges marked the time-smoothed edges of each step. Some of
the claw marks were his, others were far older.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Those aren’t all yours, are they?” Elyra circled her
fingers around one of his tail spines. “The marks, I mean. That is what you’re
looking at, isn’t it?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No.” The dragon tossed his head and took the last few
steps a little faster. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">At the bottom of the stairs, the dragon rounded a
corner, walking through a couple hallways before he emerged into the bathing
chamber. The setting sun cast a golden glow through the broken window and
arched doorway, painting the entire room with fading sunlight.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys glanced back at his minion. “Can you see in
the dark?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No.” Elyra shook her head. “Can you?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of course.” Pride swelled his chest and flared his
wings. “I’m a dragon.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Aren’t you just one amazing fact after another.”
Elyra smirked, folding her arms. “You know, cats can see in the dark too, but
they don’t brag about it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“They would if they had the ability.” Galvarys
uncoiled his tail from Elyra’s middle, careful of his spines. “It shall be dark
soon. I shall fetch light stones for you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’ll come with you.” Elyra walked to the archway
exit. “I picked up some other things in town for bathing.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not more soap, I hope.” The dragon squinted at her,
his silver eyes burning. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“For myself, yes.” Elyra flipped her hair over her
shoulder. “Tonight I’ll just use washcloths and towels on you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What are those?” The dragon pressed his muzzle
against the small of her back to urge her forward. “Walk faster.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra strolled faster as she explained. “A washcloth
is what it sounds like. A small cloth you use to wash yourself. Towels are for
rubbing yourself dry.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Trust a human to complicate things water and air do
just fine.” Galvarys flicked his tail. His spines clattered against the stone
wall. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">As Elyra went to the treasure room where she slept,
Galvarys pulled two light stones from their nooks. He took the misshapen
crystals into his jaws and carried them back to the tub. He set one glowing
crystal on either side of the water, bathing the mossy white tiles in soft blue
light. The water flowing over the fountain’s scalloped, alabaster ledges caught
the light and shone like molten sapphire. Each droplet sparkled. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys thought it suitable illumination to prevent
Elyra from tripping and breaking her skull. Elyra soon emerged, now barefoot
and with an armload of towels. She gasped, staring at the blue-tinted water.
Galvarys glanced at her, swiveling his frilled ears. “Do you not approve?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No!” Elyra said, shaking her head. “I mean…yes!” She
dropped the towels. “It’s…it’s beautiful.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is?” The dragon stared at the tub. The shimmering
blue waters and white stone did hold a certain ghostly beauty. “It seems
suitable to wash the filth from our bodies.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And you wonder why that female wouldn’t let you mate
with her.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys descended into the tub. The waters were cool
against his scales and the sensitive skin of his paw pads. “I was allowed to
mount her eventually.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Probably after she realized you’d never stop blurting
things out.” Elyra held out a small gray cloth. “See? This is a washcloth. You
use it to--”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Wash.” The dragon smirked. “Your previous explanation
was suitable.” The dragon started to settle into the tub, then froze when the
cool water reached his underbelly and most sensitive places. Galvarys hissed,
his silver eyes widening.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You alright in there?” Elyra smirked at him. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Fine.” The dragon growled through grit teeth. He
shivered, his scales clicking together. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed and laid out towels on a stone ledge.
“Bit colder on certain parts, hmm?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No idea what you’re referencing.” Galvarys rubbed his
hind legs together when she wasn’t looking. When he’d adjusted to the cool
water, Galvarys eased the rest of the way in. He rubbed his belly against the
tub’s floor to scratch an itch, and sighed in satisfaction. Once he was
comfortable he returned his attention to Elyra. “I should like to watch you
undress now.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra straightened so quickly the dragon half-thought
something had crawled from the moss and bitten her. “Now?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You did promise.” Galvarys tilted his head. “Do you
no longer wish me to watch?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It’s fine.” Between the red tint of Elyra’s cheeks
and the blue light of the crystals, she looked almost purple. “It’s just…I’m
not used to hearing those words from someone who doesn’t want to do more than
look. Let alone a dragon.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I am curious.” Galvarys lifted his frilled ears. He’d
never seen a naked human before. The idea had tickled his mind since their
first bath. But he’d not force the issue. “I can wait if you are not prepared.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t mind
at all.” Elyra walked to the edge of the tub, smiling. “I’m going to be in
there with you, I may as well let you watch me undress. It’s nothing I haven’t
done for men before. How shall I disrobe for you?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys blinked. There were multiple ways? Humans
made everything so confusing. “By taking off your clothes.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s smile grew. Did his confusion amuse her? “You
know, for a creature so blunt about sex, you are charmingly naïve.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I shall take that as a compliment, regardless of
intent.” Galvarys cocked his head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It was meant as one.” Elyra kept smiling. Something
about her smile looked different, some new happiness he hadn’t seen before.
“Some of the nobles liked to watch me disrobe very slowly. Others liked to
watch me dance while I did so.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Why?” Galvarys
curled his lip, baring fangs. He’d seen humans dance, it looked ridiculous. He
imagined Elyra dancing a jig, swinging her arms about and lifting her knees
while tossing articles of clothing around the room. “They find this…arousing?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Some men do, yes.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon lifted a wingtip from the water to scratch
his neck. “It is a wonder your species procreates at all. I should not want to
see you dancing even if this was intended for my arousal. As it is only for my
curiosity, you may disrobe in any way you please.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“As you wish, Lord Azure Wrath.” Elyra poked her
tongue out at the dragon. It was an odd gesture he did not understand. It made
her look as though her jaw suffered some manner of distension. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra pulled her blouse over her head and tossed it to
the stone floor. Her skin was pale and spectral in the blue glow. It looked
smooth, and he imagined it was soft to the touch. The dragon found his gaze
drawn to her milk glands. He recalled she said human males found them arousing.
Galvarys could not say they aroused him, but they were pleasant enough to look
upon. Rounded, soft looking, with a dollop of pink skin tipping each of them. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Your milk glands are not at all unpleasant, but they
seem rather odd.” The dragon cocked his head. “Though I imagine my horns seem
quite odd to a human.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed, her milk glands shook. “You’ve got to
stop calling them that.” Her scarlet blush still looked purple in the light.
“Breasts will do, Dragon.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“But they <i>are</i> milk glands.” The dragon licked
his nose. He still tasted honey icing. “Why do your males find the feeding of
your young so arousing?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That is a different topic entirely,” Elyra said,
laughing at him. “And what they are isn’t the point. You don’t call your balls
your…your mating glands.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Sometimes I do.” Galvarys did not see her argument. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Well, you don’t call your mouth your food hole, but
that’s what it’s for!” Elyra stomped a bare foot against the wet stone, shaking
her head. “Just stop calling them milk glands.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Very well.” The dragon waved a dripping paw. “Take
your trousers off now.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra stammered, unable to find words. Galvarys curled
his tail, wondering if she was angry. Perhaps he should send her away. Then she
sighed, shook her head, and smiled. Why couldn’t humans just decide upon an
emotion? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’ve no idea how you can be so infuriating and
disarming at the same time, Dragon.” Elyra undid her breeches, and tugged them
over her hips. They fell into a black pile around her feet. Elyra stepped free
and kicked her trousers away. She stood nude before the dragon. “There you
are.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys took his time in looking her over. Below her
milk glands, her stomach was smooth and soft like the rest of her. She could
use some extra nourishment. His gaze wandered between her thighs. The dragon
was surprised to see coils and tufts of reddish hair standing guard over her
sex. Humans were oddly fascinating. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">He lifted a paw and swirled a single unsheathed claw
in the air. Elyra turned around for him. Pale lines crossed her shoulder blades
in several places. He’d never seen a human marked by scars like that. They
looked like punishment rather than battle. Galvarys did not mention them. If he
wasn’t going to tell her about his old scars, he wouldn’t ask her to talk about
hers.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon’s gaze drifted lower. Her rump held nice
curves. Galvarys rather liked the way her haunches looked, human or not. The
dragon rumbled. If Elyra were upon her hands and knees, the curves of her back
legs and position of her sex would not be unlike a female dragon. The thought
left a warm tingle between Galvarys’ own hind legs. It had been a while since
he’d seen a female dragon. Elyra didn’t have a tail to appreciate, though.
Imagining Elyra as a female dragon made him think she’d had her tail severed.
He scrunched his muzzle. So much for that tingle. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra turned to face him. Her gray eyes danced in the
light stone’s ghostly blue illumination. Everything about Elyra looked soft.
How fascinating. Female dragons were soft in the most important places, but
elsewhere they were as armored as he was. He wondered what it would be like to
be so exposed. It looked as though even a gentle breeze might be too much for
her skin to bear. Elyra was not without her own…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What do you think?” Elyra folded her hands in front
of herself. The hint of shyness in her voice surprised Galvarys. From what
she’d told him, Elyra had little reason to feel shy about nudity after years of
servicing nobles. “I probably look pretty funny to you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No.” Galvarys eased back to make room in the tub. He
lifted a paw and beckoned for her to join him. Beads of water dripped from his
scales back into the pool. “You look beautiful.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra gasped, and looked away. She squeezed her hands
together, her body tense. Galvarys pinned his ears back. Had he offended her?
She should have expected honesty from him by now. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Th-thank you.” Elyra swallowed, and turned back to
the dragon, smiling. “So, aside from turning your apples to crab apples, how’s
the water?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys curled his neck. “But what are crab apples?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra only giggled as she gathered a few washcloths.
“They’re small apples. Because the water is cold.” She smirked at the dragon. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What does cold water have to do with small apples?”
Galvarys stared at her, flicking his spines. Then he snorted, rustling his
wings against the water. “Clever. But they’re not small, and they’ve not gone
into hiding. You’ll need a moment to adjust though.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra descended into the tub, shivering as the water
enveloped her. She grinned. “I see what you mean. Felt warmer this morning, but
we had the sun streaming in.” She waded towards the dragon, water rippling
around her. “Have you ever had a hot bath?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys eased up to his haunches. Water ran down
between his indigo scales. Little waves crashed against Elyra. “Yes.” He licked
his nose, watching water slosh around his minion. “In my youth, there was a
beautiful spring with crystalline ledges and hot water. It was pleasant to
relax in.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That sounds lovely.” Elyra dunked her washcloths
beneath the water, wringing them. “Do you ever return?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not recently.” Galvarys pinned his spines back, and
glanced away. “It is too far.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra stroked his neck. “Maybe we should demand your
villages build you a dragon-sized tub and the stoves to heat it.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys scrunched his muzzle. That sounded foolish. “Perhaps.
Are you to wash me now?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra nodded. “Dunk your head first.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys flicked his flight membranes closed and
plunged his head beneath the water. The thin, clear membranes kept his eyes
safe and let him see underwater. Though his vision wavered, he could see the
soft skin of her body, the curls of red hair between her legs, the bits of moss
and algae floating where his claws and scales had shorn them from the stone.
Galvarys lifted his head. He turned away from Elyra before he snorted and blew the
water from his nose.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thanks for turning your head first,” Elyra said. “May
I touch your face now?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of course.” Galvarys lowered his head till his muzzle
hovered just in front of her. “How is this?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra curled one of her washcloths around the dragon’s
left horn. Water trickled down the black, spiraled ridges. “Perfect.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys grunted. Was she using him for storage?
Galvarys eased back his flight membranes when he was sure the water wouldn’t
burn his eyes again. Elyra rubbed his nose with another washcloth. The scales
there were very fine, and around his nostril there was only sensitive, blue
skin. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“How’s that?” Elyra’s touch was gentle, the cloth
soft.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys rumbled his approval. “Very pleasant.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Good.” Elyra smiled as she worked the cloth further
up the pebbly scales of his muzzle. “Is there anywhere on your face I need to
be extra gentle?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I would advise you not to poke me in the eye, but I
suspect that is obvious.” Galvarys growled. He amused himself. “My nose and
ears are sensitive, as are the membranes between my facial and neck spines.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Here?” Elyra touched the dragon behind his right ear.
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys spread his crest to show off the blue and
black mottled membrane between the spines. Elyra brushed her fingers across it,
and Galvarys tilted his head into her hand before he’d even realized it. Her
touch brought warm waves of soothing relaxation and gentle pleasure. His tail
tip twitched under the water. Elyra rubbed Galvarys’ frill in a circle with one
hand, washing his muzzle with the other. Galvarys closed his eyes, sighed, and
did something he regretted in an instant.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys purred. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What’s that noise?” Elyra asked. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys went silent, opening his eyes. “I didn’t hear
any noise.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It was coming from you.” Elyra pulled her hands back,
grinning. “If I didn’t know any better…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And you don’t.” Galvarys snapped his jaws. Heat
flooded his nose, ears and frills. “Resume washing.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed. Not the desired effect. At least she
went back to washing him. Elyra worked the cloth up his snout nearly to his
eyes. Galvarys closed them and tilted his head to give her better access. She
dunked her cloth and washed the top of his head. Then she rubbed the wet
washcloth over his cheeks, kneading his pebbly-scaled flesh. Elyra worked her
hands under Galvarys’ throat. He tipped his head, exposing his jawline. Elyra
stroked his jawline first with the cloth, then with her fingers. Her touch felt
heavenly. Her fingers were warm and soft, and the way she worked them against
his scales left the muscles beneath relaxed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Everything felt so wonderful that Galvarys purred
again. The sound cascaded from the dragon in a velvet rumble, vibrating the
scales of his throat and upper chest and sending little ripples through the
water. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Someone’s a contented dragon.” Elyra stroked his
throat with hand and cloth.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Your touch is delightful.” May as well admit it and
get it over with. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank you,” Elyra said. She sounded like she was
smiling. “I picked up a few useful things serving the nobles. Learned there’s
more than one way to work the tension out of a man’s body. Or a dragon’s.”
Elyra unwound the other cloth from around the dragon’s horn, and worked it over
his face. “There. Your face is nice and clean now.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys opened his silver eyes. Elyra’s face hovered
in front of his nose. She smiled at him with a radiance that spoke of happiness
Galvarys did not expect. The mica flecks in her gray eyes glowed in the blue
light. “You have beautiful eyes, Elyra.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra wrung the cloth between her hands, glancing away.
“Thank you.” Her face twitched and flexed as though she warred with her smile.
“That’s…the second time you’ve told me that.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“They remind me of a female dragon’s eyes.” Galvarys
lifted his head. Water ran down his indigo muzzle and beaded on the pale blue
scales of his chin. “Our eyes are often in metallic shades.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Mine are dull and gray, Galvarys.” Elyra rinsed the
washcloth. “But thank you anyway.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“They are not dull.” The dragon tossed his head,
cursing whatever blind fool had put that wretched idea in her head. “They
sparkle with life and bravery. They remind me of moonlight breathing life upon
storm clouds. They <i>are</i> beautiful. As is your hair, as though the storm
in your eyes has set the world around you aflame.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s voice sunk to a whisper that even Galvarys
struggled to hear above the burbling fountain. “Thank you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You are welcome.” The dragon cocked his head,
wondering why kind words made her quiet. “I am complimenting you, you know. You
may accept.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s laughter was unexpected, bubbling like the
fountain. “I know. I’m just…I’m not used to them. Especially nothing so
poetic.” She splashed her cloth against the water, grinning at the dragon. “And
your compliments are even harder to take. One moment you’re blurting out
something about mounting females, the next you’re babbling about milk glands,
and the moment after that?” She waved her washcloth. “You’re spouting poetry
that freezes my heart! I never know what to expect from you!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“May I touch your skin?” The wide-eyed bafflement that
crossed Elyra’s face told the dragon she didn’t expect that either. She ran a
hand back through her wet hair. Galvarys was uncertain what that gesture meant.
He did not wish her to have the wrong idea. “I will not touch you anywhere
untoward. I am just…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Curious.” Elyra finished when the dragon trailed off.
She draped her cloths over his horns again. The dragon flicked his ears, but
did not complain.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra tugged on Galvarys’ foreleg. He lifted it for
her, lowering his eye ridges. She took his paw in her hands and ran her fingers
over the soft skin of his pads. Galvarys curled his paw around her smaller
hand, feeling its warmth. Elyra smiled up at him, and when she withdrew her
hand, her fingers tickled his pads. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra circled her fingers around one of his, and
Galvarys let her guide his paw. She pressed it to the side of her body. The
warmth and softness of her skin were more than he’d anticipated. The dragon
stroked her, running his paw up nearly to her breast, and down almost to her
hip. Elyra shuddered under his touch. She bit her lip, sucked in a small
breath. Galvarys felt her skin changing as he stroked it. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Your skin is growing bumpy.” He stilled his paw and
flicked his ears back. Galvarys hoped he was not causing her distress. “Am I
causing an unexpected reaction?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Something like that.” Elyra murmured, and placed her
hand against the dragon’s cheek. She traced her fingers around a few scales,
and Galvarys found himself lost in her eyes. “You have beautiful eyes too,
Galvarys. I wish I could string together something poetic to tell you how
beautiful they really are.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I appreciate your attempt.” The dragon leaned his
head against her hand. As if in reaction, Elyra pressed herself into his paw.
Galvarys stroked her skin again. “I like the way your body feels. It is very
soft.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Judging by your sleeping chamber, you like soft
things.” Elyra smirked at him, caressing his frilled ear. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon trilled in delight at her touch. Her
fingers felt so warm. “Yes, I do.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You can move your hand lower, if you want.” Elyra’s
voice softened. Then she smirked. “Just a little.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Of course.” The dragon grinned. He slid his paw down
her body till he felt the swell of her hip. Elyra pushed her hip into his paw,
and Galvarys gave her a gentle squeeze. “Is that pleasant?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is,” Elyra said, laughing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra wriggled against his paw, and Galvarys stroked
her hip, the pads of his fingers brushing over her rump. When he squeezed
again, she shuddered and bit her lip, her fingers dragged across his scales.
She pressed herself into his touch, and Galvarys ran his paw up the side of her
body, then down past her hip before he stilled it again. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra sighed as if she were waking from some beautiful
dream. She pulled her hand from his face, and stroked his extended foreleg
instead. Her voice was a trembling whisper. “You’re so gentle.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys blinked, pinning his ears. “Should I not be?”
He eased his foreleg back.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s laughter and joyful smile only confused him.
“It was perfect.” She fetched her washcloths from his horns, and shook them at
his face. “It’s a good thing you only got your muzzle messy, or I’d have to
wash the rest of you.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You still could.” Galvarys lifted his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Is that a demand from Lord Azure Wrath?” Elyra twined
a washcloth around her hand, smiling.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys arched his neck, watching her. What was she
playing at? Was she…? Certainly not. Was she? It didn’t matter. Sounded
pleasant either way. “Yes.” He snorted. “I demand you wash me.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s smile grew. “I shall do as my Lord demands.”
She gestured to the edge of the tub. “Why don’t you stretch, lay your head
against the edge? I can start with your neck and wing joints.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That sounds delightful.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys could get used to this. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra could not stop smiling. Despite the dragon
confounding her at every turn, he brought her some unexplainable happiness. His
poetic compliments alone were enough to fill her with overwhelming warmth, but
it was much more than his words. Elyra rubbed the washcloth in slow circles
across the rumbling dragon’s neck, struggling to comprehend just why he made
her feel so happy.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It hit her in a moment of beautiful clarity.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Respect. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys treated her with respect.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys’ actions and touch spoke of a deeper respect
his words often belied. When he first hauled her to the sky, he’d ensured her
safety from the first moment. If she hurled a goblet at a noble, he’d strike
her across the face with it and have her whipped. Nobles would never let her
make requests, or give her a moment’s privacy. A noble would never ask for
permission before putting his hands on her, and would not keep his touch
decent. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In all her life she’d never been treated with as much
respect as Galvarys had already shown her. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Coming here was the greatest choice she’d ever made.
Elyra’s heart swelled till she feared it might crack her sternum. She sniffed,
her throat tightened. She was not used to dealing with such joy. Happiness
usually came in fleeting moments. A bite of stolen cake, slipping away from a
noble intent on bedding her, watching Atrius drink the tea she’d slipped an
herb into. But this feeling washed over her in wave after trembling, joyful
wave.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Are you alright?” Galvarys opened his eyes, glancing
back. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’m wonderful.” Elyra’s voice was softer and huskier
than she intended. She wiped her eyes with the back of her hand. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon growled. “That had better not be soap in
your eyes.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No, it’s nothing.” Elyra smiled and ran her hand
across the scales of his neck. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Good.” Galvarys lay his head back down against the
stone tile. “Commence washing, then.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Happily, Lord Azure Wrath.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra saw the smirk that crossed Galvarys’ muzzle.
“That’s what I like to hear, Minion.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Minion. Elyra grinned. She liked the sound of that.
“Minion Elyra, commencing washing!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra caught Galvarys’ smirk as she worked the wet
cloth up his neck. His bluntness was oddly endearing. She wondered if he was so
blunt with other dragons. Maybe they were a whole scaly society with no filter
between brain and tongue. If a dog could speak and did so while licking itself,
she imagined it might talk like a dragon. Whatever the case, subtlety seemed to
elude Galvarys. All her gasps, goose bumps, and the shifting of her hips seemed
lost on a creature who spoke so openly of lifting tails and mounting. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Something about the dragon’s touch against her bare
skin set her on delightful edge. His pads were warm, finely textured and soft.
She hadn’t realized how completely the dragon could retract his claws until she
felt no trace of them against her. What truly surprised her was Galvarys’
gentleness. The dragon could crush her bones beneath his paws yet his touch was
more gentle than any man’s had ever been. Her heart used to ache at being
denied such basic comfort. Now at last she knew gentleness, and it made her
heart soar.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In the shivering moments of the dragon’s touch a whirl
of sensations and conflicting emotions had filled Elyra. If Galvarys had asked
for something more, she’d not have refused him, though she knew now that was
not his desire. If anything, she felt a fool for worrying so about how best to
pleasure a dragon on her journey to meet him. Still, when he’d so gently
squeezed her hip, part of her found it thrilling. She’d only pulled back from
the dragon to avoid embarrassing herself and giving him the wrong idea.
Galvarys probably hadn’t even understood her reactions. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra sighed and focused on the feel of the dragon’s
scales. She was thankful she’d learned to ease the tension from men’s bodies in
less intimate ways. Elyra worked the washcloth across the indigo scales all
along Galvarys’ neck. She massaged the muscles beneath the scales next. When
she felt him relaxing, she polished his scales with the cloth again. By the
time she was halfway down his neck, she’d have thought Galvarys asleep if not
for his steady rumble.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">That rumble. She’d heard it before, and she thought it
suspicious then. It reverberated from the dragon’s throat and chest, sounding
like large stones placed in a wooden barrel and rolled down a hill. It sent
vibrations and ripples through the water. It almost sounded like…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’re purring, aren’t you?” Elyra grinned and
swatted his neck with the washcloth. How adorable. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No.” The dragon cracked his silver eyes open to glare
at her as though she’d accused him of some hideous crime. “Dragons don’t purr.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Admit you’re purring or your bath-massage ends here.”
Elyra folded her arms.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Fine.” Galvarys snorted and closed his eyes again. “I
am purring. Do not tell anyone.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Who would I tell?” Elyra giggled, happy just to hear
the dragon admit it. She returned to kneading his blue-scaled neck, letting her
fingers roam over tired muscles. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You could tell that girl from the village.” The
dragon’s voice sunk back into a rumbling purr. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Amell?” Elyra pretended to consider it. “Yes, I
could! She’d love to know you purr. Can you rise so I can get your wing
joints?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys seemed more interested in his massage than an
argument. The dragon pushed himself onto his haunches. The top half of his body
jutted from the tub. Rivulets of water sluiced between his scales and down his
wings. “Is this suitable? Or should I climb out?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra stretched her arm and set her hand upon the
dragon’s wing joint. She rubbed it, grinning. “This will work, but next time if
you want a head to tail massage, we may have to try a new position.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon snorted in amusement, smirking. “New
position, indeed.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Dirty beast.” Elyra giggled, running her hand against
the dragon’s wing joint. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Firm, rippling muscle sounded Galvarys’ wing bone
where it met his body. No scales covered the joint there, only soft, blue skin.
Elyra kneaded the wing muscle, easing any tension she found. Galvarys rumbled
in pleasure. He closed his eyes and hung his head, jaws parted. He looked like
a happy hound being brushed. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys unfurled his wing. He stretched it above her
like an indigo canopy lined with rippling black paint. More ebony marks were
strewn across its surface. The light stones made Galvarys’ wing membranes glow,
like moonlight through an azure veil. Tiny veins pulsed throughout his wings. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You have beautiful wings.” Elyra stroked her cloth
along the inside of the dragon’s wing membrane. The feeling made him shiver,
his scales clicked and the water wrinkled into tiny waves around him. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank you.” Galvarys’ voice drifted on an ocean of
enjoyment. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra took her time washing the dragon’s wing. She
began with his wing joint. She kneaded it again then washed it with the cloth.
The dragon’s purr rose the whole time. From there Elyra worked her way along
the underside of the dragon’s wing. She circled the cloth across its membranes,
then stroked them with fingers. Every so often the dragon shivered. A few times
his breath caught and his teeth clicked. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">That seemed almost familiar. “Your wings are very
sensitive, aren’t they?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It took the dragon a moment to realize she’d asked him
a question. “They must be so we may feel the air currents.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Seems you’re enjoying having them washed.” Elyra
eased towards the back edge of the wing, washing it in circles. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is very pleasant.” The dragon curled his wing,
talons dipping into the water. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra wrapped her cloth around the largest of the
dragon’s wing tip talons. The talons that tipped the hand-like span of bones
that formed his wing structure were not as sharp as the claws adorning his
fingers and toes. Nor were they retractable. The talon twitched and flexed
under her grasp as she bathed it. Elyra washed each wing claw the same way,
then stroked her cloth along the black-rippled edge of the dragon’s wing to his
body. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra turned her attention to the area where his wing
membranes were attached along his back. The scales below his wings were very
fine but broadened down across his side. Elyra ran her fingers along the line
between fine scale and soft membrane. The natural demarcation must have been a
sensitive area for a dragon, because her touch made him shudder and gasp. After
one shiver he rose and trilled. Then he snapped his jaws shut and sank back
down.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Wait. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Was she…? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Was he getting…?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Shall I wash your other wing?” Elyra grinned.
Wouldn’t it be amusing if the dragon was. “Or would you rather I get your hind
legs and tail? You’ll have to stand up for those so I don’t drown myself.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Other wing.” Galvarys folded the washed wing, and
unfurled the other. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra wondered if he was hiding something. She tried
to sneak a peek along his underbelly, but his position and the water made it
difficult to see. Elyra moved around to the dragon’s other side, stepping over
his tail. She may have to consider easier ways to bathe the dragon. Elyra let
her fingers dance across his scales, enjoying their feel. They were neither as
coarse nor iron-hard as she once expected. The dragon’s warmth radiated through
them into the water. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When Galvarys draped his wing over her, Elyra went
back to work. Just as before she started with his wing joint and worked her way
out. This time she let her fingers play beneath his wing, teasing where scale
met flesh. Elyra smirked each time the dragon shivered or sucked in a breath.
This was fun. When Galvarys subtly adjusted his position in the tub, he just
about answered her unspoken question.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Galvarys,” Elyra said. She worked the cloth up over
his shoulder, then back down to where scale met skin. “This is quite a
sensitive area, isn’t it?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is.” The dragon did not look back. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I was beginning to think you didn’t have any
sensitive areas.” Elyra rolled the cloth in a broad, slow circle against the
underside of his wing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I am not made of stone.” Galvarys flattened his
spines. Her touch made his wing tremble. “I feel even a light touch upon my
scales.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And a light touch here?” Elyra ran a single finger
down a wing bone’s outline. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I certainly…feel that…” The dragon’s voice wavered. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I bet you do.” Elyra washed the talon tipping his
wing. “If imagine if dragons cared for passion, they might tease each other’s
wings while they lay together. I almost feel sorry for you.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why would you feel sorry for me?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“For dragons in general, I mean.” Elyra washed the
edge of the dragon’s wing, working back to his body. “Such sensitive wings
would make for wonderful foreplay. Not that I’ve had a chance to enjoy such
things either. I imagine you dragons are a bit like the nobles in that regard.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What regard?” Galvarys tightened his wing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Getting straight to the point.” Elyra teased a lone
finger against the edge of scale and membrane. “I’m sure you dragons just…what
did you call it? Mount each other, thrust a few times and get it over with.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Not always.” Galvarys snorted, lifting his spines.
“We often tease one another into arousal.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“By doing things like this?” Elyra used her fingers to
trace four lines beneath the dragon’s wing, dragging her finger pads against
the skin. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” Galvarys’ voice lifted into another trill
before he could stop himself. “I mean, no! Nothing like that.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh, good.” Elyra kept working her fingers back and
forth there. “I thought I’d stumbled upon a dragon’s erogenous zone. I was
worried you might accidentally be getting aroused.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I am not aroused!” Galvarys snapped his jaws, pulling
his wing back and folding it down. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed and patted his shoulder. “Good. I
wouldn’t want to embarrass you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I am not the one who would be embarrassed.” Galvarys
turned his head to glare at her. The blue crystalline light hid any potential
purple blush. “Humans are the ones ashamed by their genitals.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh?” Elyra rinsed her washcloth. “Did I seem ashamed
when I let you watch me disrobe?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Humans in general.” The dragon growled, shifting to
face away from her as he eased onto his haunches. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Ah.” Elyra moved behind the dragon, and stood with a
foot on either side of his submerged tail. Elyra leaned forward to wash the
scales of his lower back. “So even if you were aroused right now, you wouldn’t
be embarrassed.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Certainly not.” The dragon tossed his head. “And I am
not aroused.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Good.” Elyra smirked, her cloth sinking beneath the
water to scrub the top of his haunch. “Because your underbelly is next, and I’d
rather know what to expect.” She patted him, grinning. “In fact, I’ll start
with your chest right now and work my way down.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys pinned his ears back, grumbling something
Elyra couldn’t understand. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What was that?” Elyra walked around him, fighting to
continue her innocent act. She struggled to hold back her laughter. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I may be…” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys sighed, hanging his head in defeat. “I may be
a little aroused.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, I thought so.” Elyra gave in to her laughter as
she leaned against the dragon’s scaly hide, rubbing his shoulder. He glared at
her, his ears and spines as flat as she’d ever seen them. His whole snout
looked purple even in the blue light. Elyra pointed at his face. “You <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">are</i> embarrassed!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes!” Galvarys snapped his jaws, turning his head
away. “I am aroused, and I am embarrassed by it! You needn’t laugh and tease me!”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra’s laughter trailed off. The last thing she
expected was that she might hurt the dragon’s feelings. Had she gone too far?
“I’m sorry, Galvarys.” Elyra reached up to his face. When he did not pull away,
she cupped the pebbly scales of his cheek. “I meant nothing by it. I was just
having a little fun.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys growled under his breath. Anger flickered in
his silver eyes, but faded as quickly as it came. “It is…not your fault.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I think it’s at least a little my fault.” Elyra
smiled and eased her hand down his muzzle to rub the soft area between his
nostrils. “I’ll know what to avoid next time I wash you if you don’t want it to
happen again. I honestly didn’t think it would bother you. You told me you
dragons aren’t embarrassed by your anatomy.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is different when we are unsheathed!” Galvarys
huffed. His breath felt cooler than usual against her wet skin.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra quirked a brow, grinning. “Is that your word
for…?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Is that not a correct translation in your tongue?”
The dragon cocked his head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra giggled. Her ears warmed. “Given your anatomy, I
imagine it is.” She rubbed his nose again, smiling at him. “So
being…unsheathed…is embarrassing to a male dragon?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It can be, when unexpected.” Galvarys lifted his
foreleg and gestured with a dripping paw. “It is the only time we feel…naked.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Ah.” Understanding dawned upon Elyra. She slipped her
hand under his jaw, scratching at his chin. “You don’t have to be embarrassed.
I’m naked too.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So you are.” Galvarys pressed his muzzle against her
hand, smirking. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Besides, everyone gets aroused at inopportune times
once in a while.” Elyra scratched his jaw harder. “If anything, knowing that
happens even to dragons makes you more…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You had better not say human.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I was going to say real,” Elyra said, laughing. “More
flesh and blood and less…mystical. I like that.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is still embarrassing.” Galvarys murmured, closing
his eyes. His ears hadn’t lifted from his head since he’d first admitted to his
arousal. “I should not be aroused by a human’s touch.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra shrugged. “If it makes you feel better,
Galvarys, I was a little aroused by the touch of a dragon.” Elyra glanced at
the water, her whole face burning.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You were?” The dragon arched his neck, cocking his
head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” Elyra bit her lip and offered a smile she hoped
was comforting. “When you touched me, you were so gentle. It was…nice.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys opened his wing and stretched it over Elyra’s
back. “I noticed your shiver, but was uncertain of the cause.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Now you know.” Elyra pushed into his wing, shrouding
herself in its warmth. “It’s funny. The whole journey to meet you I was certain
you wanted…well…sex. I didn’t really mind the idea, as long as you also treated
me with respect. As I get to know you, I mind it even less. We’re both
thinking, feeling creatures, after all.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys smiled, curling his wing. “That is true.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra shivered, rubbing her arms. “And right now, I’m
thinking I’m ready to get out of this water. I’m getting cold, Galvarys. And
wrinkly.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Wrinkly?” The dragon scrunched his muzzle. “Water
makes you wrinkle? Humans are strange.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra wagged her finger at him. “I’d wager there’s at
least a part of you that wrinkles, too. Speaking of which, are you still…” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon glanced away, licking his nose. “Partly,
yes.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Poor dragon.” Elyra stroked his wing. His shiver
reminded her that wasn’t helping. “I brought extra towels. Want me to help you
dry?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys made a strange noise, half growl and half
whimper. “No, that is alright. The air shall suffice to dry me.” Galvarys
smiled at her as he pulled back his wing. “You asked me not to look the first
time you were naked around me. May I now ask the same of you?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra lifted her brows. Was he making a request? Not a
demand, not an order, but a polite, gentle request? He really was embarrassed.
She smiled and cupped his chin. “Of course, Galvarys. Let me get some towels
and I’ll be on my way to give you some privacy.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank you.” The dragon bowed his horned head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra waded through the tub and sloshed up the steps.
As she climbed out of the water, she felt the dragon’s eyes upon her. Acting
innocent, she bent over to tease him as she picked up her towels. She
straightened, wrapped one around herself and draped another over her arm.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Galvarys?”
Elyra wrung her hair out onto the mossy, white tile that ringed the tub. “Do
you remember the second part of our agreement earlier?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon lifted his ears. “Yes?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“The next time you’re feeling naked…” Elyra grinned at
Galvarys, tossing her hair over her back. It splattered against her towel.
“Would you consider…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You are curious?” Galvarys tilted his head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“As were you, I recall.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon offered a faint smile. “So I was. Very
well. Fair is fair. Next time, you may request to see it if you so desire.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You are welcome.” The dragon clicked his teeth, and
gave an irritable hiss. “Now leave me to dry.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Right.” Elyra stuck her tongue out at him. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon’s baffled expression made her laugh. Must
not be a gesture dragons made to each other. Giggling, she left him to finish
his bath in private.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra returned to the dragon’s treasure room. She laid
a towel out over a crate and sat down. Elyra scrubbed her skin with her other
towel, considering her new life. Things were going better than she’d imagined.
She’d flown on the dragon’s back, made her own demands, stuck it to a noble,
and slept in a room filled with treasure. She’d even stumbled into a sort of
friendship with the old beast. All without so much as having to put one indecent
finger on the dragon’s body. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">As Elyra dried, it struck her that if Galvarys had
asked her to tend his arousal, she’d have done so in an instant. Not
begrudgingly, but happily. Elyra scowled, rubbing the towel against her head.
That wasn’t like her. She’d never been happy to do anything like that before.
Whenever she had to do that for a noble, she wanted to get it over and done
with as quickly as possible before she decided to use her teeth. But if
Galvarys had asked, she’d have given him all he wanted.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra scowled, the towel hanging around her head. She
could not deny it to herself. Part of her wished he’d requested pleasure. She’d
have taken her time with him, too. Elyra had prepared herself to satisfy the
dragon on the journey here, but that was because she didn’t want to be cast
out. Why the hell did she care now?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra rose and worked the towel down her body,
contemplating the realization she had in the bath. Galvarys treated her with
more gentleness and respect than she’d ever known. There was kindness buried in
the dragon’s heart that shone through in the way he touched her, the way he’d
treated Amell. His kindness remained unacknowledged and unknown by so many,
rewarded only with worthless tributes, scars, and loneliness.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In that moment, Elyra realized that for the first time
she wanted to pleasure someone simply because they deserved it. Galvarys
brought Elyra great happiness, and he did not even know it. Elyra wanted to
return that happiness tenfold. Perhaps the next time they bathed, she could…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Self-disgust twisted Elyra’s belly into cold coils.
She wanted to make the dragon happy, and all that came to mind was offering to
polish his spear? She scrunched her towel up, gritting her teeth. Damn the
nobles for what they’d made her become to survive in that horrible place. But
she wasn’t their whore anymore. There had to be other ways she could pay the
dragon back, other ways to make him happy. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra thought about it as she dressed in some of her
new clothes. She padded barefoot around the treasure room, brushing her damp
red hair. Her eyes settled on a crate filled with a collection of wooden mugs
and bowls. No doubt they’d been passed off to the dragon as something of great
historical value, and certainly not from the local tavern. Elyra threw her
brush against her bedroll. It wasn’t fair. Galvarys kept them safe, and they
tricked him into accepting worthless…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Oh. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">That was it. Elyra was going to have a long talk with
Galvarys about the true value of his tributes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<br /></div>
The Wilder Landshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09024638755887735262noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3106716999918755903.post-20567400620034570872014-11-18T17:12:00.000-08:002014-11-24T17:16:50.760-08:00Chapter Ten<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Chapter Ten</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra paced the dragon’s treasure room the next
morning, wringing her hands. Streamers of sunlight shone into the grand hall
through broken windows set near the vaunted ceiling. Dust motes danced in the
golden beams cascading between white pillars carved with vines. More light
spilled into the room through the towering, rune-carved archway where the front
gates once stood. Coins clinked underfoot as Elyra strode back and forth across
the pathway through the middle of the dragon’s assorted treasure. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra kicked aside a few coins and sent a shiny stone
tumbling with them. At least some of the dragon’s treasure was valuable. Hell,
there was more wealth in this room than she’d ever imagined. How much of it had
the dragon stolen before his truce? For that matter, how long had the villages
been sending him wooden plates and unwilling girls? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra suspected it was Varm’s doing. Greedy bastard
was probably keeping the valuable tributes for himself and substituting
something worthless. He’d pay for that soon enough. Elyra would ensure it was
Varm and his noble cohorts rather than the villagers who coughed up the coin
for Galvarys. Assuming Galvarys didn’t just incinerate Varm on the spot when he
learned of his treachery. </span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra would have to explain things carefully to
Galvarys. That would be the tricky part. Elyra had spent much of the night
contemplating how best to break the news to the dragon. She needed to emphasize
that it wasn’t the fault of the villagers, and that Varm would be more useful
left alive. Not that she had any love lost for Varm, but she didn’t want
Galvarys to break his own truce in anger.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">She put together her explanation while Galvarys was
out hunting his breakfast. As she organized her thoughts, she straightened up
Galvarys’ treasure room as well. She cleaned up scattered coins and jewels,
arranged crates of treasure by their contents, and stacked together the boxes
she’d brought back from the village. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">After a quick bath, Elyra put on a dress she’d
selected to match Galvarys’ colors. It was layered in shades of blue, palest
across her shoulders and darkening to indigo around the frilly hem of her
skirt. The sleeves shared the same graduated color scheme. Even the threading
matched Galvarys’ colors with spirals of silver and black. She also wore a new
pair of simple brown leather shoes. They fit better than the boots, and today
seemed as good a day to break them in as any.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">By the time Elyra heard wing beats outside, she was
ready to make her point to the dragon. She’d dug out a few crates from his sleeping
chamber that would help illustrate her explanation. When a heavy thump
announced the dragon’s arrival, she fetched a green washcloth. She soaked it in
the fountain, then stood near the doorway to await Galvarys.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys soon padded into his home, bits of dried
blood caked his snout. He glanced around, silver eyes shining as they caught
the light. His spines lifted when he spotted the girl, and a smile split his
muzzle. He padded over to her, pressing his muzzle against her body.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hello, Elyra.” The dragon’s nostrils flexed as he
sniffed her chest, throat, and hair. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hello, Galvarys,” Elyra said, laughing. She still
wasn’t totally adjusted to the fact that sniffing her seemed to be part of the
dragon’s regular greeting. She rubbed his muzzle with the wet cloth. “Sleep
well?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Soundly, thank you.” The dragon’s silver eyes crossed
as he focused on the emerald cloth. “What are you doing?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Washing your breakfast off your face.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I already did that.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Your tongue doesn’t count as a bath.” Elyra smiled.
When the dragon’s snout was clean, she set the cloth aside. “Much better.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys swiveled an ear to the side of his head.
“Thank you, Minion.” He looked her over. “Excellent choice of colors.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank you!” Elyra twirled around to show off her
dress. The loose skirt swirled around her as she spun. Her red hair flew in all
directions before settling across her face. “I’m glad you like it.” She pulled
her hair back behind her head. “Which do you like me in better? A dress or
trousers? Or a blouse with a skirt?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys flicked his ears and licked his nose. “I have
not yet developed a preference.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That’s fine.” Elyra held her skirt out and did
another twirl. “Trousers are best for riding you, I think, but skirts are
comfortable for lounging around your home. I got as many outfits as I could
that were in your colors so I can sport them like a soldier’s tabard.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon gave her a blank look. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Like a badge of honor,” Elyra said, tugging at the
dress. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys rumbled his approval. He gazed around his treasure
room, spined tail flicking. “You are honored to serve me?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why shouldn’t I be?” Elyra set a hand on the dragon’s
scaly shoulder. “I’d rather serve a creature like you than any of those filthy
nobles. Even the best of them haven’t got half your honor or kindness.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys growled in laughter. “Honor and kindness are
not often words associated with dragons.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Perhaps they should be.” Elyra’s voice softened. She
rubbed his shoulder. Most of the scales there were blue with a few black scales
speckled in. “You can’t be the only honorable, kind dragon out there.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys snorted, flaring out his spines. “I am
neither honorable nor kind. I simply do what is best for me. As should any wise
creature.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So you said.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Did you not choose to serve me because you felt it
would better your life?” The dragon turned his pale moonlight gaze upon her,
his spines extended around his head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I did.” Elyra patted his shoulder. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Then you understand. I made this truce to better my
life, to ensure that I will be remembered.” Galvarys growled low in his throat.
“Not because I share their misguided notion of honor.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra grinned, touching one of the dragon’s flared
spines. It wavered under her fingers. “Your sense of honor is better than
theirs. There’s more kindness in you than you care to admit. You did return
Amell…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That was a calculated decision to earn more loyalty
from the village.” The dragon waved his paw, hissing. “Besides, she was too
stringy to eat. She’d have given me the runs.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Alright, alright.” Elyra giggled, then waggled her
fingers and made a face. “You’re a wicked monster with no redeeming qualities
whatsoever.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’ve a redeeming quality,” the dragon said. He flared
his wing for emphasis. “I’ve an immense set of valuables.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Is that what you call those things? They aren’t <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> big, Galvarys.” Elyra smirked at
the dragon, folding her arms. “And I don’t think they redeem you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Clever.” Galvarys grinned and swept his wing around
the room. “I was referring to my excellent collection of treasure gained in
conquest of the very lands that once sought my death. Now, they’re held in sway
under my influence. As my influence grows, so shall my legend.” The dragon’s
smile faded, and he glanced away. His voice settled to a whisper that drifted
from his tongue. “In legend, shall we ever be remembered, and in memory, shall
we never fade.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra chewed on her tongue. She opened and closed her
mouth a few times, struggling to find the right words. “Actually, about that
treasure…” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes?” Galvarys shook himself, scales rustling. “I’m
going to go relax on my sleeping things.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Wait.” Elyra grit her teeth. Now or never. “I need to
show you something.” Elyra walked over to the crates and chests she’d set
aside. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon gave a long, exaggerated sigh, lifting his
frills. “If you’ve found something valuable you wish for yourself, I may be
talked into parting with it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It’s about your tributes.” Elyra swallowed. Her mouth
went dry and she fetched her waterskin. She took a long drink and wiped her
mouth. “I need to tell you something.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What is it?” Galvarys settled on his haunches, tail
curled around his paws. Curiosity buoyed his voice. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“They’re not…” Elyra scowled. She took another drink,
wishing she had rum instead of water. “They’re not all as valuable as they
could be.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“What do you mean?” Suspicion crept into Galvarys’
voice. He lowered his eye ridges, ears twisted back.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra urged herself to be cautious. If she put this
the wrong way, very bad things might happen. “I’ve been looking through some of
your treasures, and I think the villages may be a little…misinformed.” Galvarys
growled and Elyra held up her hand. “No doubt because the mayor and the nobles
behind him are telling them what sort of tribute is best for you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys turned his head, gazing over the assorted
tributes she’d separated from the rest. “Go on.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“These plates, for starters.” Elyra reached into the
crate and pulled out one of the wooden plates. It was smooth and sanded to a
shine. A runic inlay of darker wood marked the center. “See this one?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” The dragon nosed the plate, lifting his ears.
“It is not gold, but it is of great historical value.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Only it’s not.” Nervousness shook Elyra’s voice. She
worked the plate around in her clammy hands, glancing up at the dragon. “None
of them are. They’re just wooden plates. They’re not old, Galvarys. They’re
brand new, and they’re not even half as nice as the plates the nobles ate on
back in the Hall.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys growled again, unfurling his wings. “What else.”
The flatness of his voice set Elyra on edge even more than his growl. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra set the plate down, pursing her lips. She moved
to another crate, and retrieved a simple green tunic. “These clothes, for one.”
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I take it they are not spun from the finest of exotic
fabrics.” Galvarys shifted his weight back and forth. Anger rose in his silver
eyes, darkened his frills and inner ears. His spines flared out.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra rubbed the material between her hands. “Just
wool, I think.” She shook her head, red tresses swishing in front of her gray
eyes. “Not even good wool. It’s coarse. The sort of thing a peasant would wear
if he couldn’t afford anything better.” She set the tunic back down atop the
crate she’d pulled it from. “This whole box is full of clothing you could buy
on a street corner. And this one?” She went to a wooden chest with iron banding
and opened it. Silvery goblets and plates lay within. She pulled out a goblet,
and held it towards the dragon. “These are worth more than the plates, but not
by much.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“They are not silver, then.” The dragon uncurled his
tail, flicking his spines against the floor. They clattered and scratched the
stone. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Pewter. We used them a lot back in the Hall. They’re
more than the average commoner can afford for daily use but they’re not near as
valuable as silver.” She dropped the goblet back into the chest where it
clanged against other pewter vessels. “I could go on and on. You’ve much of
great value here, but half these crates are filled with common items. Now,
there is a distinction to make because I’ve found that some--” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So they think they can deceive me?” Galvarys lifted
his head, snarling. “Buy me off with common trinkets and lies?” Galvarys rose
and lashed out at the crate filled with wooden plates. Half the box exploded
into splinters and plates flew in all directions, clattering off the walls and
floor. “I shall hurl their lies in their face and burn their--”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Galvarys!” Elyra backed away from the shattered box,
her heart thundering. The dragon swung his head around to glare at her. She
leveled her gray gaze with his own angry silver eyes. Elyra willed herself to
stay calm. She was ready for this. “It’s not the villagers’ fault. They aren’t
deceiving you on purpose.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No?” Galvarys tossed his head. He dragged unsheathed
claws against the stone floor. The grating sound made Elyra wince. “So they
deceived me by accident?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I doubt the villagers know you’ve been deceived.” Elyra
stood her ground, fighting to keep her voice level even as she feared the
hammering of her heart would reduce her sternum to splinters. “And they’re not
rich villages to begin with, Galvarys. If they only gave you real treasure
they’d have nothing left to give before long.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I understand this,” the dragon said, his voice a
gravelly knife-edge. “I allow them to give me food, drink, things they can
afford. That is acceptable. What is not acceptable is deception!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I know, Galvarys.” Elyra reached out. When Galvarys
did not pull away, she rubbed his nose. “And it’s not right, but you can’t
punish the village for it.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why not?” The dragon glared at her as she stroked his
nose, his spined tail flicking back and forth. “It will teach them not to do it
again.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It isn’t the villagers’ doing,” Elyra said. “If you
attack them, people will die, and you’ll break the truce.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And they will learn--”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That you can’t be trusted!” Elyra’s voice sharpened.
“Right now the villagers trust you. They fear you, yes, but they also see you
as their protector. If you come at them with fire and claw now, they’re going
to think they have to slay you to protect themselves. Then you’ll get no
tributes, you’ll have no legend, and sooner or later something sharp is going
to stick too deeply in you.” Elyra’s eyes fell. “And I don’t want that.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys growled and stared into her eyes. He offered
no argument, and soon pulled his head away. His spines settled back against his
skull, and he gave a defeated sigh. “You have a better idea?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, I do.” Elyra softened her tone. “First, I need
to know you understand the average villager has no way to know you’re being
deceived. Your tributes are probably packed up somewhere out of sight and
shipped out to your hill.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys flicked his ears back. He turned his head
towards the entryway, his wings drooping. Elyra thought he looked like a
stubborn child being denied a chance to play his favorite game of Burn The
Village. “Then who <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i> responsible?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“The nobles.” Elyra stroked the dragon’s neck.
“Galvarys, trust me. I spent enough years serving and spying on nobles to know
how this works. They think they’re smarter than everyone else. They think they
can just trick you into accepting trinkets and worthless junk and you’ll
protect their villages for them. Varm’s a noble. I’d bet my ass the value of
your tributes has decreased drastically since he’s been in charge.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You should not bet your ass.” The dragon flashed her
a small grin. “You would look funny without it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed, a little of her fear abating as the
dragon’s anger eased. “Luckily it’s a wager I’m certain I’d win. Varm’s
probably taxing people to pay for your tributes, keeping the coin and sending
you junk.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So you think I should just kill Varm.” Galvarys
flicked his spined tail in contemplation. He rustled his wings. “I would be
happy to incinerate that hairy-faced pustule.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra giggled, but shook her finger at the dragon.
“No, I don’t think you should kill Varm.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I disagree.” The dragon snorted, and tossed his head.
“The man has stolen from me, and deceived me in front of my village. He
deserves to be slain.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You can’t just go around killing people, Galvarys.”
Elyra folded her arms.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why not?” The dragon cocked his head, rustling his
wings.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You just can’t.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes I can.” The dragon lifted his head. “I’m a
dragon. I can burn them, or…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra ran a hand over her face, gritting her teeth.
“You know that’s not what I meant. You can’t go around killing people for no
reason.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“There is a reason. He has broken the terms of our
agreement.” Galvarys flared his wings out. “You cannot expect to get away with
wronging a dragon. You were just a servant. I would not expect you to
understand.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Just a servant?” Elyra took a step towards the
dragon, narrowing her eyes. She balled up her fists. “What’s that supposed to
mean?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I meant no offense.” The dragon scratched his neck
with a wing-talon. “You are not in a position to understand what it takes a
dragon to maintain a truce.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It takes understanding and trust!” Elyra jabbed a
finger against the dragon’s indigo chest plates. “Two things you’ll lose if you
kill Varm. You’re just too stubborn to think of anything besides avenging your
injured pride.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys peered down at her as she prodded him. “Did
Varm not wrong you in the past? I would expect you to desire revenge as well.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Maybe I do!” Elyra set her jaw. Frustration heated
her cheeks. “But not like that! I might want to knock his nose into his skull
but I wouldn’t kill the man.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Why not?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">God, it was like arguing with a child. “Because death
is…” Only a lifetime spent holding back her emotions kept Elyra’s fury in
check. “You’re awfully stubborn, you know.” She held her hand up to prevent the
dragon from replying. “If you were captured by humans, and they were going to
slay you for some sin you’d committed, wouldn’t you rather they gave you a
chance to make things right?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is a trick question.” Galvarys snorted at her.
“Humans would not capture me alive.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra wanted to scream. Instead, she took a deep
breath, glaring at the dragon. “I just believe killing someone is wrong,
alright?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Even if they have earned their death?” The dragon
cocked his head. “Even if it prevents them from harming you in the future?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra refused to be baited so easily. “Isn’t that what
people say about dragons? Didn’t they used to try to kill you just so you
couldn’t burn their village later?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys murmured something incomprehensible. He
kneaded at the stone floor with ebony claws. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Isn’t that why humans killed dragons in the past?
Just to ensure the dragons can’t attack them in the future?” Elyra jabbed her
finger against his plates again. “It isn’t right, Galvarys. Life is important.
I think somewhere under all that armor, your heart knows I’m right.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Do you?” The dragon pulled his head back, his neck
curling into an S. He shifted on his haunches, growling.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes.” Elyra sighed. Maybe a change in tactics was
needed. She forced a grin. “Besides, it’s very poor leadership to kill someone
when you could use them for so much more.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Now I should take leadership advice from you?” The
dragon rumbled in amusement, stretching his left wing. “Clearly your time spent
serving the nobles has taught you much about how to bend a village to your
will.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra ground her teeth. She was starting to wish she
hadn’t brought his tributes up. “You need not insult me, Galvarys. I’ve spent
an awful lot of time learning what poor leadership is. Murdering for revenge is
exactly what the nobles would do. You want to be a legend, right? The wretched
men I served will never be legends. They’ll only be remembered through the tale
of the rebellion that drags them to the gallows someday. Is that what you
want?” Elyra scowled, waving her hand. “To give the nobles reason to foment
rebellion against you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I have slain everyone who--”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, yes,” Elyra said, walking around the dragon. She
gestured at him, calling out legendary titles off the top of her head.
“Galvarys, with wings that shroud the stars! Galvarys, with claws that shatter
steel! Galvarys, who forged peace with men!” Elyra jabbed a finger into his
throat, just behind his jaw. “Galvarys, who was slain by a lucky shot from a
peasant with a hunting bow, out to avenge his mayor. That peasant would be a
legend, Galvarys, and you would be just another wicked dragon slain for his
malice.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys pulled his head away, hissing. “Stop that!”
He flexed his jaws, spines flaring.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Beloved leaders and triumphant heroes are legends,
Galvarys.” Elyra placed a hand on the dragon’s chest. “Let me help the village
see you as their leader. They already know Varm sent poor Amell to be your
whore.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So they will support me when I slay him.” The dragon
cocked his head. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No! That will make you a monster in their eyes.”
Elyra threw her hands up in frustration. “I’m trying to help you, Galvarys! I’m
trying to make things better for you. They’re ripping you off, and I’m trying
to tell you how to make it right without anyone getting killed. Including you!
Why won’t you just listen to me?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I don’t have to listen to you.” Galvarys tossed his
horned head. He perked his ears and smirked. “I’m a dragon. Clearly I know how
best to deal with villages, tributes, and deceptive mayors.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, you’re a dragon,” Elyra said, pinching the
bridge of her nose. “You’re very wise, Galvarys.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys lifted his head, smiling. “Of course I am.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’re very regal.” Elyra swept her hand over him in
a grand gesture. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon arched his neck, flared his wings. “Quite
regal indeed.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’ve got entire villages doing whatever you tell
them!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon gave a snarl, spreading his frills and
puffing out his chest. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“And you got your head stuck in a damn pastry box!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys deflated like a flower withering in winter. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So maybe you should admit you can use a little help
now and then.” Elyra softened her tone again. “It’s alright to admit you don’t
always know what to do.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon stared down at his paws a moment, flexing
them. He tapped half-unsheathed claws against the floor. “I shall be sure to
ask your advice in all future pastry-related matters. Until then, I don’t think
I need to be told what to do by some wen--” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys snapped his jaws shut. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra sucked in a breath, balling up her fists. She
narrowed her eyes. Heat rose in her ears and reddened her cheeks. “What was
that?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I said I don’t need to be told what to do by some…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Don’t you say it.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys growled, baring his fangs. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra glared knives right back at him. “Don’t you say
it, Dragon! I warned you before what would happen.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon flared out his wings, lifting his spines in
open threat. He lowered his head till his muzzle brushed Elyra’s face. “You
wouldn’t dare do that to a dragon.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra spat her words through grit teeth. “Say it and
find out, you stubborn lizard!” Elyra jammed her finger against the soft spot
of his nose, pushing his head back. “I’ve been trying to help you!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I don’t need help from--” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Don’t you dare! Don’t. You. Dare!” With every word,
Elyra jabbed the dragon’s nose harder. Each time he pulled his head back, and
each time she advanced on him again. Unwilling to concede ground, the dragon
ended up sitting upright against his tail, his fore paws off the ground. “Say
it.” Elyra jabbed his chest, glancing down. “I. Dare. You.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys glared down at her. “Wench!” Elyra stared
back at him. Galvarys snorted, and slowly lifted his head. “That’s what I--”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra kicked the blue dragon in the testicles as hard
as she could.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“GRWWAAARRRHHH!” Galvarys’ silver eyes bugged out so
much they nearly shot from their sockets and bounced off the far wall. His
spines all jumped out, his tongue hung from his open muzzle and for a moment he
simply sat that way, silent. Then his spines drooped, his ears twisted back and
he moved his forepaws to cradle his battered pride with a low, bestial groan.
“Aaarrrrrhhnnnnn!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Before any fear or guilt could creep into Elyra’s
heart, she saw the look on the dragon’s face. Elyra erupted into laughter, her
shoulders quaking. She didn’t know what to expect when kicking a dragon in the
balls, but it certainly seemed to work. In fact, it worked too well. In her
laughter, Elyra failed to notice which direction the cross-eyed dragon was
slumping as he cupped himself in his forepaws. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">By the time Elyra realized the dragon was toppling
forward, it was too late. The dragon’s chest crashed into her and knocked her
to the floor, landing atop the lower half of her body. Elyra coughed in pain,
the air knocked from her lungs. Thankfully not too much of the beast’s weight
came to bear against her, but she knew she’d earned some bruises. Still,
nothing like the bruising she imagined she’d given the dragon’s ego.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra struggled for breath, trying to wriggle her way
out from under the dragon. She shoved at his scaly shoulder. “Get…off me!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys’ blue neck stretched, his head rested against
the floor at an awkward angle, propped up by a horn. “Uurrrrrrhhhhhhh!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon squirmed against her. Apparently her reward
for vanquishing a dragon with one kick was to end up half-squished beneath him.
Elyra wriggled beneath the writhing dragon, gaining a few inches of freedom at
a time. Finally, she was able to slip free from beneath his body. Elyra
scrambled away and got back to her feet. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I suppose that makes us even.” Elyra folded her arms,
watching Galvarys.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The blue dragon curled up on the floor, wings half
draped over his head. Elyra thought the dragon looked so humiliated to be
felled in such a way he had to hide his face beneath his wing. Perhaps he just
didn’t want her to see the expressions he was making. His spined tail coiled on
itself, straightened, and coiled again. One of his hind legs stretched a few
times, black claws unsheathed and digging into the stone before he pulled the
limb back in. Then he rolled halfway over towards his wings before rolling back
to his belly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra bit her lip, struggling to keep from laughing
again. That look on the dragon’s face was priceless. It seemed that particular
blow worked just as well on a dragon as it did on a man. Still, she’d warned
him.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’m sorry, Galvarys.” Elyra got no reply other than
another guttural groan so she went on. “I didn’t mean hurt you quite that
badly, but I did warn you. I told you exactly what I’d do if you ever called me
a wench again. I gave you plenty of chances not to say it.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra walked around the dragon as he lay on the floor.
He rubbed his hind legs together around his forepaws. “What’s the matter with
you, anyway? You know how I hate that word! I warned you and warned you and you
said it anyway. I’m sorry you’re hurt, Galvarys, but you wouldn’t stop pressing
me!” She paused, peering down at the creature’s crumpled form. “Are you even
listening? I’m trying to apologize.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Nrrrrrruuurrrfffff!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I shall take that to mean you’re listening and you
accept my apology.” She giggled. “You’re not going to bite my leg off, are
you?” When the dragon didn’t reply, Elyra crouched down next to him. Galvarys’
head was still hidden under a wing, so she stroked his curled neck instead.
“I’m sorry, Galvarys. I really am. I don’t know why you had to push me like
that.” Then she laughed, shaking her head. “I can’t believe I just kicked a
dragon in the balls. I wasn’t sure it would work that well! I suppose that
doesn’t make you feel any better, though.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Urr…urrrrhhh.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra rubbed his neck. “There, there. The pain will
fade, Dragon. And you’ll know not to call me that again.” She smiled down at
him, then put her other hand upon his neck to try and soothe him. She worked
her hands against his blue scales, fingers gliding back and forth. “You know,
that was the first time I’ve ever done that to someone. Quite satisfying, given
what you did to earn it. Not something I’d make a habit of, but when deserved
I’d do it again. Was that the first time someone’s ever done that to you?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Nrrrrrgggh!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh. I’m prattling again, aren’t I?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Nrrf!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’ll be quiet, then.” She smiled at the dragon’s
hidden head, then stretched her arms to stroke the scales of his side and
foreleg. “There, there. You’ll be alright.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Arrrrrg!” The dragon thumped his spiked tail in a
mixture of pain and frustration.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh. Right. I promised to be quiet while you recover.”
Elyra smiled and patted the dragon’s body. She rubbed his neck and pushed
herself to her feet. “You probably don’t want me watching you while you’re all
curled and squirmy. It’s sort of cute, though. Don’t worry, I’d never breathe a
word of this to anyone. I’ll go wait in your sleeping chamber for you. Take
your time.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra strolled through the treasure room, smiling. She
fetched her waterskin and went into the dragon’s bedroom. While she waited on
him, Elyra kept busy going through some of his various crates and possessions.
She separated the treasure from the junk and tried not to laugh at what just
happened. She had no idea a dragon could make a face like that. Elyra held in
her giggles until she saw the dragon slink in with his tail tucked and far less
pride in his strut than usual. Then that bug-eyed, tongue-lolling expression
popped into her mind, and laughter bubbled from her all over again. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys pinned his ears back, glancing away. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’m sorry,” Elyra said through her laughter. “But the
look on your face!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon found an especially soft looking blanket,
and gingerly eased himself onto his haunches atop it. “Yes, yes. Laugh it up.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra did just that till she’d gotten it all out of
her system. She wiped a tear from her eye, then gave the dragon a more cautious
look. “You don’t seem as angry as I feared you might be. You’re not going to
bite my limbs off, are you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys snorted. “It would be a shame to maim
something so courageous.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra leaned up against the stone wall behind her,
smiling. “That’s good to know. I am sorry, though. Are they alright? Perhaps
you should go soak in the cool water for a while.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I am fine.” Galvarys snapped his jaws. “Your
prattling was a far worse punishment than your kick.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Nice to see your attitude is unharmed.” Elyra set
aside the treasure she was sorting. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon muttered something, pinning his ears back.
He curled his tail around himself, sighing. His scrunched his muzzle. “If you
are done savoring your victory, I am ready to listen to your advice now.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Oh, are you?” Elyra leaned forward, her voice lilting
and full of mock amazement. A long, sarcastic diatribe cued upon her tongue,
ready to tell the dragon how much easier for him it would have been if only
he’d listened in the first place. But she bit it back. He’d had enough
humiliation for one day. “Good. It’s quite simple, really.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon’s whole face relaxed. His spines lifted a
little, his ears perked, and the scrunched areas of his pebbly scales eased. He
must have expected her to light into him a while. “Please go on, then.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Certainly.” Elyra waved him over. “Come here, I want
to show you something.” When Galvarys hesitated to rise and walk, Elyra bit
back a laugh, smiling. “Never mind. You stay put, I’ll come to you.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Much as Galvarys hated to admit it, he was impressed
with the girl’s courage and self-respect. He never thought she’d dare do that
to a dragon. She stood up for herself and damn the consequences. Those were
qualities Galvarys appreciated. He’d appreciate them even more if they didn’t
involve him being kicked in the testicles, though.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Not that he hadn’t earned that kick. Elyra had been
fair and well within her rights to deliver it. Galvarys was not angry with her,
just irritated with himself for giving in to his foolish pride. She’d
challenged him to say that word again and so he could not let that go
unanswered.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Thankfully she did not seem to want to press the
issue. When he finally slunk in, Galvarys was prepared to let her rant and
belittle him until she decided the matter was closed. If she wanted to remind
him of her many warnings for the rest of the day, such was her right as victor
in their little confrontation. The fact she was eager to move on and consider
it a lesson already learned was further reason to respect her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys wondered if Elyra would ever tell him why
that word bothered her so. It clearly held a deeper meaning for her than its
normal use in her tongue conveyed. That also meant it was probably not the sort
of story she wanted to discuss. Which was a shame as the more time he spent
with Elyra, the more he wanted to know about her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra was a fascinating creature, and that was
something he rarely thought about a human. Most humans either attempted to
pacify him through whimpering pleas and gifts, or flashed their courage when
they attempted to end his life. Elyra pacified him without gifts, without
pleading. Elyra showed courage without bloodletting. She showed him great
respect even as she stood up to his bullying and treated him like a friend. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It had been a long time since Galvarys had a friend.
He did not seek friendship, though sometimes he missed the companionship of
others. Talking and sharing touch with another dragon was a simple pleasure
he’d long gone without. Elyra was no dragon, but she spoke to him and touched
him as though they were one and the same. If she didn’t smell so damn human
he’d half think she had a dragon’s soul stuffed in that soft, pale skin. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Even the way she’d touched him in the tub. Bathing him
was one thing, any servant could do that. Yet Elyra’s touch, the gentle way she
explored where wing met body and scale met flesh? He’d never have expected a
human woman to bring about that sort of reaction. Galvarys knew Elyra had not
done it to embarrass him despite admitting to doing it on purpose. She was not
some servant looking for a chance to humiliate her master, she was…</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">She was just a friend, sharing a spontaneous moment of
fun and intimacy. Galvarys was not sure how to feel about that. Dragons didn’t
exactly have a pleasant history with humans, let alone his personal history
with them. Yet, he’d made his peace, hadn’t he? Why couldn’t he be friends with
a human? Did it really matter if a human woman gave him…?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Galvarys?” Elyra’s voice rose. “Galvarys, are you
alright?” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Hmm?” Galvarys licked his nose, glancing down at
Elyra. He’d drifted into his thoughts while she’d dragged some boxes across his
sleeping chamber and settled in front of them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Are you alright?” Elyra put a hand upon the
black-striped scutes of his foreleg. Her touch was warm, soft, and oddly
comforting. “Are you still in pain?” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys scrunched his muzzle, pinning his ears back.
He did not want to worry the girl. Aside from her laughter, she seemed
regretful enough to have hurt him. He glanced down at himself, inspecting them,
then shook his head. “They’re fine. Dragons are sturdy creatures.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed, her hand slipped down his scutes to
rest atop his forepaw. “That’s good. I was worried you were still hurting. You
sort of hunched up and drifted off for a moment.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You need not worry.” What was he going to tell her,
that he was busy thinking about his erection in the tub? “I was not even that
hurt to begin with. I was simply exaggerating for your benefit.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Uh huh.” Elyra grinned, stroking his fingers. He did
not mind at all. “Do you want to go soak in the cold water a while? I can tell
you this later.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No, I’m fine,” Galvarys said. Strange. Her concern
alone seemed to improve his mood. “I’ve had worse.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You have?” Elyra’s eyes widened, her shoulders shook
as she fought back a giggle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The dragon smirked, his spines flat in embarrassment.
“I took a pine tree there once, when I was flying too low.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra couldn’t hold back now, laughing so hard she
toppled over onto her side. Words sputtered past her lips between bursts of
laughing. “You took…a pine tree…in the balls?” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Just the top of it.” Galvarys grinned, sharing a
little of her laugher. He rubbed his wings against the sides of his body. “Put
me on the ground in a hurry, though.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I’m sure it did!” Elyra propped herself up on her
elbow atop his blanket, grinning. “So my kick didn’t hurt that bad?” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Certainly not. Scarcely even felt it.” The dragon
arched his neck, flexing his wings. “Didn’t want you feel ineffective, though.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That’s good,” Elyra said. She smirked at Galvarys,
then made a show of glancing down at her shoes. She stretched her leg and
brushed her boot against his haunch. Her touch was both nerve-wracking and
exciting. “I guess I can use that move more often then, if it doesn’t hurt you.”
</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys gulped audibly. “It may have been a little
painful.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That’s what I thought.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“So.” Galvarys smiled down at her, then waved his
forepaw at the boxes allayed before him. “What did you want to show me?” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra eased back up to a seated position across from
the dragon. “I’ve been going through some of your tributes in here, and I’ve
realized we can tell which village every box, crate, and chest you’ve got has
come from.” She turned an empty box over, and tapped a finger against a black
sigil painted on the wood. “See this? It’s a city sigil. It basically says
which city this box originated in. There are marks like that on all of them,
probably so they can keep track of which village is sending you which
tributes.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys lowered his head, peering at the emblem. He’d
never even bothered to look at the bottom of the boxes. “So this is…useful
information?” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“It is!” Elyra beamed up at him. She set the empty box
aside, and pulled up another one. “It shows us which villages are giving you a
proper tribute and which aren’t. I took a closer look at some of this stuff.”
She reached into the crate, retrieving a wooden platter that she waved front of
the dragon’s nose. “Like this.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Another worthless plate.” Galvarys tried to snap his
jaws around it, but Elyra pulled it back just in time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“No! This one is different.” Elyra turned the plate
over. “This whole crate is different. You said you allow them to give you other
kinds of tributes besides gold and treasure, right?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys cocked his head, then nodded. “Yes, so long
as it is not junk.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“That’s exactly what this village did.” Elyra pointed
towards the archway with the plate. “Those plates out there are street corner
rubbish. But this?” She held it up to the dragon again. “Someone carved this
for your tribute.” She turned the plate over. The back side of it was carefully
cut into a textured scale pattern resembling Galvarys’ hide. Elyra set it down
and picked up a mug. The whole vessel was carved to resemble a dragon’s head,
making it look as though any drink poured into it was poured into a dragon’s
maw. It was heavily detailed right down to the scales and the dragon’s eyes.
“Someone made this just for you, Galvarys.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Ooooh…” Galvarys rumbled, unfurling his wings. The
fact someone carved a tribute in his likeness was a wonderful balm for the
injury Elyra’s foot had inflicted upon his ego. “Magnificent. I thought you
said this junk was worthless?” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra set the mug back in the crate. “Not all of it.
Some of it they’ve poured a lot of thought and time into making for you. The
marks on the boxes will show us which villages are holding up their end of the
bargain, and which aren’t. We’ll start with the Village of Rings.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Yes, because we already know Varm is stealing my
tributes.” Galvarys growled. Fire bile dripped down his throat. How he wanted
to incinerate that man. But he wouldn’t. For now. He lifted his paw and held
his gray pads to Elyra in acquiescence. “I will not kill him.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Thank you, Galvarys.” Elyra put her hands around his
paw. She seemed to have misinterpreted the gesture. When she rubbed his
sensitive pads with her own soft skin, he did not mind her mistake. “Would you
like to hear my proposal?” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Certainly.” Galvarys closed his paw around her
smaller hand, holding it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra set her other hand atop his paw, stroking the
fine blue scales across his fingers. Galvarys enjoyed her touch, and the way
her own pale hands looked against his indigo paws. “We go to the Village of
Rings, and meet with Varm in the plaza as before. You’ll be angry, of course,
and hurl a crate of plates across the plaza or something. Maybe make him wet
his trousers. Tell him you’re furious he’s deceived the good people of the
village by stealing their kind tributes.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“But <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I</i> am
the one being deceived.” Galvarys flared his spines.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra caressed his paw with her hand, grinning. “It’s
all in how the people see you. Heroes are legends, Galvarys. Heroes are
remembered. Be a hero.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“I do not wish to be a hero,” Galvarys said, sullen.
“I do not like good deeds. They make me feel very un-dragon-like.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Something mischievous glinted in Elyra’s gray eyes.
She smirked at Galvarys, running her finger along a single digit. “You’ll still
get your tributes. The key is to convince the people you’re angry with Varm not
for deceiving you…” Elyra tapped her finger against his. “But for deceiving the
villagers, for stealing the tributes they scrape together. You want them to
think you’re on their side. Let them see you as a benevolent king, not a
tyrant. Tell the whole village how you cannot abide someone so callously
stealing from your subjects. Tell them Varm will pay them back. And that for as
long as Varm is mayor, it will be his coin that funds your tributes, and thus,
their protection.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“You’ve thought this through, haven’t you.” Galvarys
pulled his head back, contemplating it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra smiled at him, patting his paw. “You get more
gold, and the whole village thinks you’re doing it to punish Varm for stealing
from your loyal subjects.” Elyra pressed the back of her hand to her forehead,
wobbling. “The shame of it.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys cocked his head. “What are you doing?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Feigning a swoon.” Elyra pulled her hand back,
laughing. “Never mind. You’ll get your tributes, Varm will be humiliated and
out of coin, and the village will love you. Word will spread of your kind
deeds, and before long the villagers will build your legend for you. All while
we roll in your gold and laugh at our little trick.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys was as impressed by her cunning as he was by
her courage. “You’re quite devious when you want to be.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed, a lilting, musical sound that sent a
tiny shiver through Galvarys’ scales. “You make it sound like I’m plotting some
kingdom’s downfall.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“Plotting a mayor’s downfall.” He smirked, flicking
his tail. “I rather like this side of you. Dragons appreciate devious plots
that lead them to riches.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra smiled up at him. “Thank you.” She tilted her
head. Red tresses framed her face. In the ghostly blue light, her pale skin
looked strangely beautiful. “May I sit against you?” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys blinked at her request. He licked his nose,
and then nodded. “You may.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra pushed the crates aside and moved to sit up
against the dragon’s haunch. She leaned her head back against his side, and
Galvarys looked down at her. Elyra’s hair framed her face with fire. She
reached for the dragon’s front leg. Galvarys lifted it. Elyra moved into
position to drape his foreleg around her, hugging it against her body. Galvarys
savored the warmth of her form against his own, relished the feel of her
fingers as she stroked the black-striped scutes protecting the front of his
foreleg. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">“We shall build you a suitable legend yet, Galvarys.”
Elyra smiled at him, rubbing his leg. “You will be remembered as something
great, I promise you that.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys found himself smiling. Warmth blossomed in
the dragon’s chest, swelling his chest plates. “You know, Elyra, I fear I am
starting to like you.” The dragon was still unsure how he felt about that, but
he saw no reason to hide the feeling from her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Galvarys felt her fingers roaming his foreleg till
they found his paw. She pushed her fingers between his own, curling them to
find his pads. For a moment, her voice sounded soft and warm, like some
unguarded emotion she had not meant to share. “I like you too, Galvarys.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The silence that settled between them was pleasant,
but Galvarys did not wish it to grow awkward. He flicked his tail spines and
sent a cushion flying. “You make an excellent minion.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Elyra laughed, patting his forepaw with her own hand.
“And you make an excellent dragon.” She smirked at him. “When you haven’t got
your head stuck in a pastry box.”</span></div>
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