Chapter 18

Lyndis chuckled, her voice laced with daring defiance, as she brushed an emerald dragon's claw from the nape of her neck. "Those tickle," she teased, her gaze meeting his with a glint of amusement.

Cordenth responded with a gentle nuzzle, his scaled snout gliding smoothly over her bare skin. "Apologies, my dear. You're simply too alluring," he purred, his sunflower-like gaze fixed upon her with an air of playful charm.

"Careful now, wouldn't want to awaken the beast," she jested, a mischievous smile dancing at the corner of her lips, before leaning in to lightly kiss the tip of his snout.

The dragon pulled back; his eyes gleaming with an unexpected tenderness that held her captive. It was as though within those depths; she could discern the essence of a creature for whom she was the most precious entity in the world. The realization washed over her, causing a subtle warmth to spread through her cheeks, a blush betraying the depth of her emotions. No one had ever regarded her with such reverence and affection in all her years of adventuring through the realms of Sethera.

"I think I like this manner of kissing you do," rumbled the green dragon, the frills on the back of his head swaying gently in time with his breath. "It is quite an illuminating experience. I desire more."

She laughed as he nuzzled along her cheek and neck, reminding her of the gryphons’ manner of showing affection. "Sure, someone as seasoned as you, and yet you've never partaken in such an indulgence?" she teased, a soft smile playing on her lips, while the dragon's tail thumped with a rhythmic cadence against the soft sheets of his bed.

“Do you deny my words?" he growled, a playful glint in his eyes as he displayed his sharpened teeth. "I swear to you that every syllable I utter is steeped in truth. It may not appear that I am a novice, but that is solely due to my natural finesse and charm," he insisted, his breath intermingling with hers as he leaned in closer. A gentle chuff escaped him, enveloping her in a cocoon of his warmth. "Speak to me of your travels, Lyndis. Unravel the tapestry of your adventures for me. I long to know every facet of your being, your desires, your clandestine musings, and the fiery drive that propels you into the embrace of danger."

As he sniffed at her in a playful manner, she couldn’t help but let out a lighthearted giggle, her attempts at pushing him away half-hearted at best. Before she knew it, she found herself entwined around his snout, the glow of the romantic candlelight casting a warm red-orange hue upon their skin and scales. With gentle caresses, she indulged in his affectionate purrs, their soothing resonance permeating her very being. There were certainly worse fates, she mused, than being held in such an affectionate embrace by a tender-hearted drake.

As he curled around her, eyes closed in contentment, she playfully teased him, "Are you a dragon or a lovesick kitten? Perhaps I should procure a collar and a bowl of milk for you, if that's your preference."

"What a dirty mind you have, my princess," Cordenth chuckled, the rhythmic thumping of his tail echoing with amusement. "Not even a week has passed, and you're already proposing games of roleplaying and bondage," he teased, playfully clicking his tongue as she laughed and playfully smacked his nose. "And what would the others think?"

"I think they'd find it quite amusing," she replied, a mischievous grin playing on her lips, "that the proud, mighty beast that you are secretly harbors a penchant for being bound and at the mercy of little old me." Cordenth opened his eyes, his gaze narrowing as he responded with a harsh snort. "I believe Veledar would be thoroughly entertained—" Before she could finish, Cordenth pounced.

Delicate talons traced across the sides of her body, teasing over sensitive spots and summoning forth involuntary spasms of movement. In short order she was cursing his name with screams, laughing till tears streamed from her eyes. She swore to kill him, but he merely chuckled in amusement, continuing his assault.

"Oh... my gods... when I get out of this, you're going to be so sorry, you fucking bastard," she gasped between fits of laughter.

Cordenth chuffed, his eyes alight with playful mischief. "But I shan't desist, my dearest," he retorted, the glint in his gaze undiminished. "I must educate you on the repercussions of defiance! Dare you mock me in the presence of my crimson rival? Such transgression shall not go unchecked! You are mine!"

For several minutes, she became naught but a flailing marionette, her laughter resonating so thunderously that even the deep recesses of Cordenth's cavernous lair seemed to vibrate with her joyous outbursts. It was only when her pleas for respite grew desperate that the emerald beast relented, his relentless assault finally coming to a halt, leaving her sprawled on the bed, her chest rising and falling as she struggled to catch her breath and regain her composure.

"I hate you," she murmured softly, a hint of affection weaving through her words as his snout settled down beside her.

"You really ought to quiet down,” he chuckled, “Your roaring might rouse your friends from their slumber.” The dragon shifted, curling around her, his tail forming an emerald wall of scales, “Might I also add it's rather useful to know that you're so ticklish.” He licked his lips in an exaggerated display, his eyes gleaming with mischief.

"Oh, don't you dare entertain any lewd ideas, Mr. Greenscales. What sort of lady do you think I am?" she teased, playfully pushing against the dragon's chest as he loomed over her.

"A lovely one... A beautiful flower," he mused, each word punctuated by a gentle rise of his paws. "One whose mere presence brings untold joy to this humble dragon." Drawing closer, his voice softened, carrying with it an air of sincerity that enveloped the space between them. She entertained the notion of stopping him, but in the end, she found herself captivated by his words, choosing to let him continue.

"Like a collection of priceless emeralds, without any equal. A woman who is rarer than finding a unicorn," he mused, his claw gently caressing her cheek as he spoke. She couldn't resist the impulse to grasp his paw, leaning into his touch as her heart danced within her chest, enraptured once more by the depth of his gaze. Meeting him halfway, their lips found each other yet again in a tender embrace. "I am going to miss you," he whispered suddenly, the frills on the back of his head drooping with an air of melancholy.

"Don't dwell on what's to come, Cordy," she chuckled softly, her voice carrying a gentle reassurance. "You have me here at this moment. Let's savor each other's company and the time we have, alright?" Planting another tender kiss on the dragon, she felt the rapid flutter of his heart beneath her touch, his frills twitching in response.

"Well then, lets shall." he chuckled, pulling back momentarily before returning to capture her lips with his once more.

Her eyes fluttered shut as she pressed closer, enveloped in a fervent embrace that kindled the flames of passion within her. Despite his earlier claim of inexperience, he proved to be a fast learner, his tongue intertwining with hers in an elaborate dance of heat and moisture. Yet, as suddenly as it had ignited, the fervor waned, his movements stilled, and even the lingering scent of dragon and pine dissipated into the ethereal expanse.

"Cordenth?" she called, her laughter tapering off as a cold shiver rippled through her veins. Opening her eyes, she was met with the sight of the magnificent green dragon, now rendered lifeless and ashen, resembling naught more than a statue carved from stone. A cry escaped her lips, the echoes of his name reverberating through the void, before everything shattered into an abyss of darkness, each fragment like shards of glass slicing through the moment.

** * * * * * * * * *

Lyndis awoke with a start, her senses tingling with a disorienting haze as she found herself sprawled upon a creaking bed. Her hand instinctively sought her throbbing temples, as if she had spent the previous night drowning in spirits and was now grappling with the remnants of a rousing revelry. But that couldn't be right. Where had she last been?

As she opened her eyes, Lyndis found herself situated within a modest stone chamber, its bare expanse bereft of any furnishings save for the solitary bed upon which she lay. Taking in her surroundings, she realized she was confined within a barred cell, scarcely spacious enough to accommodate two individuals. A grimace tugged at her features as she assessed the narrow gaps between the metal bars, a realization dawning upon her that escape through them would prove a futile endeavor. Beyond the confines of her cell, a solitary wooden stool accommodated the presence of a gruff-looking man, his sinewy frame adorned in dark, weathered leathers. Propped against the wall, he appeared at ease, a mana lantern casting a soft glow upon the circular table beside him. Engrossed in the contents of a blood-red tome, his clay-like eyes darted across the pages with a restless intensity.

Realization dawned upon Lyndis as she pieced together the events that had led to her capture, a sigh escaping her lips as she took stock of her situation. Patting herself down, she confirmed that her captors had stripped her of all her gear, leaving her clad in naught but a simple ensemble of charcoal-colored trousers and a tunic. The absence of lockpicks and weapons only reinforced the daunting challenge that lay ahead of her; escaping from this predicament would undoubtedly demand an exhaustive effort. Though loath to acknowledge it, she begrudgingly conceded that the Lumaraian captors were not lacking in wit—outsmarting a fool held little satisfaction.

"Hey, you," she growled, her voice laced with a terse edge. "What's the meaning of all this?"

The man folded the corner of the page he was perusing, closing the tome with a resonant thud. "You're being held captive, princess," he replied gruffly.

She couldn't help but groan. "Let me guess," she quipped, a wry smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I'm stuck in the highest chamber of the tallest tower? How original. So that makes you the fat dragon standing guard, right?"

"Quite the mouth on you, ain't there," the guard laughed, "Said you would, didn't believe a dainty thing like yourself had it in you, but here we are—"

"Open this cell, and I'll show you just how dainty I am," she retorted, gesturing toward her wrist to draw his attention to the black manacles that had been fastened upon her. They bore no chains, just smooth metal etched with intricate runes.

“Fun as that sounds princess, I’ll pass. Yer going to be staying right there till we’re done with ya, Suntail’s orders.”

Suntail, the very name rang with the authority of a Gryphon. Should that have concerned her? Lyndis pivoted, her steps quickening as she paced the confines of her cell. They were well aware of her royal lineage; did this mean they intended to negotiate her return home? Dismissing the thought with a shake of her head, she concluded that they likely viewed her as a valuable political pawn, a bargaining chip to be exchanged for favors or gifts from her kin. She already harbored a deep disdain for this Suntail and her ilk. "Hey, fat dragon," she called out, her voice laced with a cutting edge. "How long have I been held here, anyhow?"

The man couldn't help but chuckle. "Already with the insults? I thought you'd be a touch more grateful," he murmured, his calloused fingers idly caressing his sparse black beard.

"Grateful for what, that you don't reek like a latrine?"

"That you're still breathing,"

"Hah, spare me," she retorted, amusement dancing in her voice. "You know full well who I am, and we both understand the dire consequences if you so much as lay a finger on me."

The guard chortled, reopening his book. "You have no idea, missy,"

"How long?"

“A few hours. Boss would've liked to have a word with you sooner, but she reckoned you'd be more cooperative come morning," he added, a malicious smile spreading across his lips. "After a good night's rest, of course."

Great, she was going to be confined to this cell for the foreseeable future. Lyndis shook her head, contemplating whether Arcturus and the rest of the team would proceed with their plan in her absence. The dragon, she mused, had little reason to hold back. His covetous desire for the treasure wouldn't be dampened by this minor inconvenience, would it? The answer eluded her as she sank down onto the bed, a flicker of unease igniting in the pit of her stomach. If rescue wasn't forthcoming, she realized with a sinking heart, the burden of escape would fall entirely upon her shoulders.

“Why'd you even capture me, you big brute?" she demanded, "Last time I checked, strolling through your city isn't a crime."

"You'll have to ask the boss," he replied with a nonchalant shrug. "Suntail gave the order, so they snatched you up," he explained, a chuckle escaping his lips. “Heard you decked that smarmy gryphon commander in the balls too," he added with a wink. "Good one, girlie."

She gave him an exacerbated sigh, savoring at least that win for the evening. She was about to look away as Veledar did, only to catch a wink of metal on the guard’s belt. There it was the key that she imagined would open this cell. All she had to do was charm this guy with a spell and she could walk out of here.

A sly grin curled her lips as she flexed her wrist, whispering the incantation under her breath, careful not to draw the guard's attention. The familiar surge of magic began to gather in her arms, ready to be unleashed, but to her bewilderment, an invisible barrier seemed to stifle her spell. It felt as though she were a tightly sealed bottle, her powers locked away. Perplexed, she attempted the incantation again, only to be met with the same inexplicable resistance. What was going on?

Of course, how could she have been so dense? Lyndis growled inwardly, shooting a furious glare at the enchanted manacles encircling her wrists. They must have been made to suppress any use of magic. Her stomach rumbled, almost as if to chide her frustration. With a resigned groan, she slumped back against the wall. If they held her as a prisoner of war rather than a common criminal, they would likely treat her with some degree of respect. Clearly, she wasn't going anywhere anytime soon. Her escape would have to be postponed.

"Fine, I'll play along," she announced, affecting an air of nonchalance as she leaned back against the wall. "But I'll be needing a well-cooked meal, a treat on the side, and perhaps a couple of ales for good measure.” As the man scowled at her demands, she clapped her hands together, punctuating her words. "Chop chop, or I'll be having a little chat with this Suntail of yours."

"Well, now you've gone and spoiled it for yourself," the man chuckled. "You don't get rewarded for acting up." He strode over to a door at the far end of the room, cracking it open just a fraction. "Yeah, the princess wants her meal. Go fetch that little gray lizard," he called out. Turning back to her, he wore an evil grin. "Although," he added, the malice palpable in his voice, "only give her half of what we were planning. Can't be rewarding bad behavior now, can we?"

Settling back onto his stool, a palpable aura of satisfaction enveloped the man, pleased with his own little display of power. Lyndis could only glare in response, her frustration simmering beneath the surface.

“What’s the name?”

“Not getting it.”

"Ah, playing the secretive type, huh? I can respect that," she mused. "Though that means I'll have to come up with a name for you."

“Think I care?”

Closing her eyes, she let out a scoff, "I'm thinking... Twat Waffle."

There was a momentary pause, Twat Waffle’s eyes widened, “Excuse me?”

“Oh, you heard me Twat Waffle.” She smiled, “Aw, you got all serious now, did I hurt your feelings? Too bad, stop acting like a rightful Twat Waffle then.”

Twat Waffle let out a bellowing laugh, his features contorting with amusement. "You think you can outwit her, do you?" he chortled, a hint of mockery woven into his words. "I've seen tougher souls than yours buckle and sing a merry tune under the weight of her claws. You're just a little bird in a nest, chirping its defiance to the oncoming storm."

“Lovely, but you’re not her are you.” She settled onto the bed, counting the metal beams above, “Just trying to look big because of some buried deep insecurity. Trust me, I’ve seen the type before.”

The man's expression darkened, a shadow passing over his features. "You've got a pretty mouth on you, don't you, princess?" Twat Waffle retorted, his voice dropping to a low growl. "Talking big when you're all trussed up, like a rabbit pretending to be a wolf. I've seen your kind, all right. You think you're something special, but you'll find out soon enough what happens to those who think they're untouchable."

Lyndis shot him a wry smile, her eyes glinting with mischief. "At least I've got something to back up my bark, unlike some who rely on their big words to fill the empty spaces. Must be a hard life, being just a footnote in someone else's grand tale, huh?" She leaned back against the wall, a smug satisfaction playing at the corners of her lips. "Ah, but you do make a charming footnote, Twat Waffle," she teased, her voice laced with sarcasm. "I'm sure your contribution to this grand narrative will be sorely missed." With a dismissive wave of her hand, she turned away, leaving the guard to stew in his own indignation.

In the quiet confines of the cell, Lyndis let out a soft sigh, her mind drifting to the dream that seemed to slip further from her grasp with each waking moment. Thoughts of the gentle dragon, of his tender words and warm embrace, brought a bittersweet ache to her chest. For a fleeting second, she allowed herself to revel in the memory, clinging to it like a lifeline amid uncertainty.

Why had she not asked him to come with her? It wasn’t like their group was exceptionally full-on dragons. The rogue groaned, knowing with each passing day the longing for his company was growing ever apparent. Though she knew the answer better than anyone, not wishing to interrupt his freedom with one of her adventurers. Plus, she was certain Veledar wouldn’t want to share the centerstage with another dragon, though, she knew if she really insisted, she bet she could have had the dragon changing his mind, after all, two dragons on this quest would have certainly be better than one.

She gave a mournful sigh, reaching for something around her neck, the scale that he had given her; the one to connect their dreams. It wasn’t there. Her eyes shot open, of course they had taken the simple green thing. She lamented the absence of the cherished token, a gentle reminder of their unspoken bond. Her mind wove a vivid fantasy, envisioning Cordenth's majestic arrival, flames erupting from his eyes as his ferocious roar instilled fear in the heart of the guard. With a smile tugging at the corners of her lips, she indulged in the delightful image of the dragon sweeping her off her feet, carrying her away to safety amidst a heroic blaze.

Should Lyndis have questioned the implication of her envisioning herself as a damsel in distress? Despite the possibility, she shook her head, allowing the comforting daydream to lift her sinking spirits. Realistically, she acknowledged that neither Veledar nor the rest of her companions had any pressing reason to mount a rescue mission on her behalf. After all, they hardly knew her for long.

After an hour, the door creaked open, and the sound of claws clicking on the stone floor announced the arrival of two kobolds. Their emerald scales gleamed under the torchlight, casting a soft, ethereal glow that highlighted the delicate horns atop their scaly heads. Their eyes, though sharp and alert, held a glint of curiosity and intelligence, making them seem more mischievous than menacing. Lyndis couldn't help but be intrigued by their presence, even as she maintained her guard.

One of the kobolds had a striking appearance, with intricate patterns of yellow stripes decorating her grey scales. Her attire, well-tailored grey tunic and trousers, bore delicate black stitching that added a touch of elegance to her otherwise utilitarian outfit. Around her waist, a flowing purple tabard cascaded down to her dainty, scaled feet, adding a regal air to her figure. An eye-catching teal necklace adorned her neck, featuring a small, mesmerizing blue orb at its center, catching the light of the lantern with a captivating glimmer. In her claws, she carried a silver tray, upon which sat a tankard and a cloche that concealed the contents of the plate.

Beside her, a male kobold with sharper horns stood, his deep blue robes reminiscent of the flesh of a ripe blueberry. His gaze flickered with concern as he glanced at the guard.

"What are you doing here, Azzik? I only asked for the girl lizard," the guard barked, eyeing them with contempt.

Azzik, the male kobold, spoke softly, avoiding eye contact with the human. "S-Skywing wanted the prisoner to be fed," he stammered. "That way she is well-rested and has a full belly for the morning."

Ignoring the guard's menacing presence, the female kobold approached the cell with a graceful stride, her tail swaying gently behind her. Crouching down on her diminutive legs, she placed the tray close to the bars. "Hi!" she greeted with a radiant smile. "My name is Feku." Her regal purple eyes closed as her scales started to shimmer with varying shades of green, growing more vibrant with each passing breath. “Not often do we get princesses. I hope you like; I make good with a flourish.” she lifted the cloche, releasing tendrils of steam that wafted through the air like delicate ribbons, tempting the princess's senses.

The tray presented a tantalizing display, showcasing succulent strips of pork resting atop a bed of steamed rice, intermingled with a medley of vibrant vegetables and a perfectly prepared steamed egg. The ensemble glimmered under the soft lantern light, provoking a low growl from Lyndis's stomach, as if it had a mind of its own, urging her to snatch the tray and devour its contents with a pair of chopsticks in a familiar fashion from home.

“I not use to make Drenedar food, I hope you like.” Feku chimed in, rummaging through the pouches around her waist to retrieve two chopsticks. Pausing for a moment, she examined the chopsticks as if lost in thought. “Can she use chopstick as weapon?” she pondered aloud, glancing at Azzik.

"Silly girl, no one can turn chopsticks into weapons," Scoffed the guard, crossing his arms.

"Guess someone without imagination couldn't," Lyndis retorted, her playful jab causing Feku to clutch the utensils tightly, her eyes widening with a mix of surprise and fear. "But I won't for you, especially not when the food looks this good!"

That had the little lizard shoving the chopsticks into the princess hands with a warble, sounding like almost like a little bird, “Don’t worry.” Feku whispered as Lyndis grabbed hold the utensils, “When he says half portion, I just take half of double. He no wiser.”

Huh, she hadn’t expected this kind of hospitality, especially in this place of all places. Lyndis pulled herself from the bed, padding her way to take a cross-legged seat before the friendly lizard.

“Watch the prisoner, I’ll be right back.” Guard growled.

Lyndis watched the guard stomp away, the door slamming shut with a resounding thud that reverberated through the stone walls. She turned her attention back to Feku, who was eyeing her with a mix of caution and curiosity, her teal necklace shimmering in the lantern light.

“See, it’s just a matter of talking to him.” Azzik said with a nervous laugh before coming over to sit beside the female.

The succulent meal lay before her, the flavors mingling in a tantalizing dance, each bite more delectable than the last. Lyndis relished the savory taste, allowing herself a moment of indulgence. Meanwhile, the kobolds observed her with intense curiosity, the female's scales transforming to a vibrant hue of yellow as she gazed at the princess, her eyes filled with intrigue.

"I'm sorry they caught you and brought you here," Azzik lamented, his claw tracing nervous patterns on the stone floor. "Skywing only wants his friend back. He wouldn't ever want to hurt a princess."

"So that was the name of the white tiger gryphon?" Lyndis growled, taking another bite of her meal. "Well, whatever he wants, I'm to be traded back home for political favors at best. Worst-case scenario, I'll be held as a hostage for your prick of a king."

Azzik's snout drooped with a heavy sigh while Feku on the other hand, with her excitement undiminished, thumped her tail in apparent delight. "You're truly a princess?" she gasped, clicking her claws together. “I never meet princess before!”

“Well now you have.” Lyndis mumbled through her next bite, rice falling from her lips to the ground.

“You’re pretty as song stories say!”

“Really?” The rogue laughed, though couldn’t find the thought appealing. Her cheeks flushed as she took another bite, “Perhaps you might be singing the wrong stories little one. I’m no pretty princess of legend, no matter what certain green dragons say.”

“Why green dragon say that?” Feku tilted her head.

“Cause I met one?” She chuckled, “He was quite taken with me, almost had to pry him away, I did."

The kobolds gasped simultaneously, their eyes widening to the size of dinner plates. Feku even went as far as covering her mouth with her sharp claws in shock.

"No way!" Feku exclaimed, unable to contain her astonishment.

"No way indeed," Azzik chimed in, his voice carrying a mix of disbelief and awe.

Lyndis raised an eyebrow, her demeanor almost playful. "And what of it?" she inquired, her voice a mix of bemusement and curiosity.

"You've met a dragon!" they exclaimed eagerly.

Her lips curled into a knowing smile as she regarded their enthusiasm. Kobolds, ever devoted to their dragon masters, often held these mythical creatures in the highest esteem, almost to the point of reverence. With a chuckle, she responded, "If that impresses you, you might be intrigued to know I've had the pleasure of encountering not one, not two, but four dragons in my time."

The room fell silent as the weight of her revelation settled in the air, each moment pregnant with the anticipation of their reaction. Lyndis anticipated a flurry of questions, their curiosity and excitement sparking a rapid-fire barrage of inquiries about Cordenth and Veledar. What she didn't expect was for Feku's eyes to roll back into her head as she crumpled to the floor in a faint.

"Is she alright?" Lyndis asked with genuine concern, her voice laced with worry, as the male kobold hurried to Feku's side, checking for signs of life.

"It's alright, she's just fainted," Azzik reassured her, straightening himself. "Meeting four dragons is no small feat, Lady Lyndis. You're truly blessed."

"Do you really think so?" she asked, her brow furrowed in contemplation. The idea hadn't quite struck her before. "And you can just call me Lyndis."

"Alright then, and yes, it's no small thing! Seeing a dragon is a rarity. Most don't even catch a glimpse of one in their lifetime, and you've seen four!"

As she pondered the kobold's words, the reality struck her hard. Sethera was a realm teeming with fantastical creatures, both magical and mundane, yet none were as rare and mystical as a dragon. Was it merely a stroke of good fortune, the whims of some divine entity, or perhaps another piece in the complex puzzle orchestrated by the Emerald Lady? Her father's words echoed in her mind. He had always believed she was destined for greatness, a destiny etched into her very blood, he often said with an affectionate gleam in his elven eye. Though typically reserved and stoic, he occasionally allowed glimpses of warmth to seep through his stern facade. She had initially interpreted his words as a call to lead her country, uniting the Wolven, Human, and Elf populations. However, she couldn't help but entertain the thought that meeting these dragons might have been what he meant.

  "Guess you're right, shorty," she mumbled, acknowledging the truth of their situation. "Despite being captured by these Lumarian dogs, there's still much to be grateful for." Her voice was tinged with resignation. "Who knows, in a few days, I could be laughing my bloody head off outside these walls."

"Do you truly believe you'll manage to escape?" Azzik inquired, genuine curiosity coloring his tone. "Suntail is one of the most cunning gryphons I've ever known. Stern, ruthless, but fair."

“Is that so?" she retorted, tapping the metal bar with a scowl. "Don't get me wrong, she's done a fine job here, but I've slipped out of tighter binds." It was a half-truth, the truth interwoven with a touch of deception. "Do you know about the magical constructs you all have here?" she continued, her grin widening. "I could run circles around them with my eyes closed."

Azzik's eyes widened in astonishment at such a claim. "You must be an exceptional adventurer, then! I've always envied your kind, exploring different lands, meeting new peoples. It must be quite exhilarating."

"If you're so envious, why did you choose to stay here?"

"I owe Suntail," he sighed, turning to assist Feku as she began to stir. "Are you alright, my sweet scale?"

Feku shook her head, blinking her eyes as if rousing from a deep slumber. A laugh escaped her lips as she nuzzled against Azzik's cheek, whispering something in the draconic tongue, a series of hisses and growls that were unintelligible to Lyndis.

“That’s because she did say she met four dragons.” Chuckled Azzik as Feku’s eyes widened once more.

This time, she managed to remain conscious, directing her attention towards Lyndis' cell. "How did you encounter four dragons? No one has such luck!"

"Well, I did," Lyndis replied, tapping her chest with pride. "Crimson Sky, Benevolent Scholar, Radiant Star, and Emerald Lady. Trust me on the last one, a real 'see you next Towerday.'"

"Now you're saying a dragon's name starts with a C... U... N—" Feku paused as Lyndis chortled, her own scales beginning to shift into shades of crimson. Determination flashed in her eyes as she stomped her clawed foot against the ground. "How dare you say something like that about dragon! Dragons always good!"

“Not this one, mate," Lyndis replied calmly, observing the kobold's rage with a bemused expression. Despite the attempt at intimidation, she found the diminutive lizard rather endearing.

"Now, there's something that's been bugging me," Lyndis continued, locking eyes with Feku through the bars. "You're Lumarian, and I'm Drenedarian. Why did you give me more food? You don't even know me."

"If I knew you were to say mean things about dragons, I wouldn't have," Feku snapped, crossing her arms and turning away with a snort. "Bitch."

"Wow, seems like I touched a nerve," Lyndis laughed.

"It's alright, Feku is obsessed with dragons," Azzik explained with a chuckle. "We saw one when we were very young. It was like an omen from the gods that things were going to be good."

"I followed it!" Feku interjected, her voice filled with fervor. "Scrambling over rocks, kicking up dirt, hiding in the roots. It was beautiful, a silver dragon!"

Lyndis winced, recalling the heartfelt final words to her son from Veledar's adoptive mother. She couldn't help but remember how the sighting of this silver dragon had united the two kobolds.

"I ran right into him!" Feku laughed, grabbing Azzik and embracing him tightly, rubbing her cheek against his. "It was fate!"

"And what does this have to do with the food?" Lyndis retorted, prompting a reserved growl from her kobold host.

"Everyone deserves a good meal, and I like making people happy. Even if they're bad dragon haters!" Feku responded, her voice tinged with indignation.

Rolling her eyes, Lyndis clarified, "I don't hate dragons. The Radiant Star? He was a green one, and I bloody kissed him."

"What?" Feku's voice was filled with shock, the crimson sea of her scales momentarily punctuated by waves of violet. Lyndis nodded, confirming that it wasn't a falsehood. "Fine, I guess you're not that bad."

Azzik nudged Feku gently, saying, "She was so thrilled to hear you were a princess. You should have heard her warbling and trilling away, dashing spices here and there. She nearly knocked over all the pots and pans. You snapped at some humans, didn't you, sweet scale?"

“Deserve them right.” Feku replied with a snort and nod, “I serve princess, I overjoyed if made mistake.”

"Overjoyed?" Lyndis raised an eyebrow. "You wanted to make a mistake with my food?"

Feku wrinkled her muzzle, her expression one of frustration. "Oh, did I use the wrong word again?" she sighed. "Common is my second language. I meant to say, m... mortified." She struggled a few times with the last word before snarling out of irritation. "Common dumb tongue."

Suspicions tugged at the princess' senses. No one could be this sweet and kind without an ulterior motive. There had to be an angle, a scheme at work. These two were likely trying to soften her up for something. Perhaps they wanted to know about Arcturus and Veledar, considering the recent attack on their fort. However, shouldn't they believe Veledar was off burning their fortresses scattered across Lumara? Lyndis leaned back, maintaining an air of composure.

"What's the story with you then? You don't see many kobolds mucking about in Lumara. Mostly humans and gryphons, occasionally an elf or a dwarf, but no kobolds," she inquired.

Azzik took a deep breath, composing himself before responding, "That is true. Most of our kind live in the mountains of Titan's Mesa to the north and the Voiceless Mountains to the east." He gestured toward Feku with a slight drop of his head, adding, "We came from a small village in Titan's Mesa."

"Talontail" Feku murmured softly, a wistful note in her voice. "It was nice."

"Was?" Lyndis probed, already noticing the sorrow flickering between the two.

“Mmmhm.” The bard continued, “Nice place before Observer come. It had many eyes!” She wiggled her talons and bared her teeth as she snarled. “Big floaty head, make beams of magic!”

Wide-eyed, Azzik interjected, "It could turn you to stone or reduce you to ash. Some of its beams just tore the kobolds apart. Feku and I were captured and turned into it’s slaves."

“He not like much cooking. He like meat raw.” Feku sighed, her tone laden with resignation. “No spice, no recipe, just cut meat.”

The kobolds painted a horrific picture of the creature's lair, describing a network of smooth passageways devoid of any discernible logic. Observers were known to be particularly deranged, distrusting of others and often despising their own kind. In a gruesome fashion, the kobolds recounted the various victims brought before this floating monstrosity, the creature running a gang known as the 'Many-Eyed.'

“Real original on the name.” Lyndis scoffed.

"Other people thought so too." Azzik replied.

“What happened to them?”

Feku threw her arms up as if to scream, then froze in place.

“Right.”

“But then came pretty gryphon!” She rose up with a smile, her scales shifting back to a mossy green. “Suntail leap and slash, cast magic!” In a series of harsh movements, Feku danced around the room, pretending to weave magic and lash out at invisible enemies. “Old Master never know what hit as she tore them apart!”

"And she even has his corpse on display," Azzik added with a nervous laugh. "She was kind enough to liberate us, giving us a home here. She was an answer to my prayers." He retrieved an amulet that had been concealed beneath his robes. It was no larger than his palm, circular in shape, with a black and gold design featuring a crystal surrounded by gold coins. "Such was the trade that was made." He closed his eyes and continued, "I asked Glenreich for freedom, and Suntail came. I owe Suntail our lives."

“Plus, she really pretty.” Feku smiled wide, “I have three songs about her, though I don’t think she like. She humbles.”

"So, you're like her indentured servants?" Lyndis probed. "Working off your debt until it's repaid? How long have you been doing it?"

Both of them paused and whispered to each other in draconic. The conversation lasted only several minutes, with Feku's fingers serving as the metric by which they counted.

"Forty," Feku declared, showing four fingers.

“She means four.” Azzik corrected.

"And your debt is not yet paid?" Lyndis finished off the last of her meal, setting down the chopsticks with a click. "Have you thought about leaving?"

The air around them grew tense as the kobolds exchanged a nervous glance.

"Not ready yet," Azzik said softly. "Though the guard guy is mean, it's nice here."

“Nicer than old master.” Feku nodded solemnly, “Suntail like our cooking.”

So, it seemed that Suntail wasn't the imposing force the human had portrayed her to be. Perhaps there was a sliver of honor within her feathery chest that Lyndis could exploit. Things were not as bleak as she had initially thought.

"What is this Suntail like? You're not the only ones to talk about her. It's nice to know a bit more about her if I'll be meeting her," Lyndis inquired.

"You have nothing to worry about," Azzik reassured her with a smile. "She's an avenging angel who seeks out the monsters of this world, searing away the darkness with her flames. Right now, she's concerned about people planting explosives. You seem like a nice princess, hardly capable of something like that!"

Lyndis leaned back against her bed. "So messy, hardly my style at all. If I'm going to hit someone, it's going to be precise. Hopefully, this gryphoness has a brain between her ears to see that. Who knows," she sighed, closing her eyes, "Maybe I'll be out of here faster than two shakes of a gryphon's tail."

"Maybe!" Feku clapped her talons excitedly. "Suntail might be rough, tough, and hard, but she's nice deep down! I know she likes looking at the stars and moon!"

"What's going on in there?" came the angry voice of the guard, muffled by the door. He slammed it open, his brow furrowed, his cheeks red with embarrassment. With sharp eyes, he glared at the laughing kobolds. "Both of you, get out of my sight. The princess doesn't need you annoying her with your chittering."

"Right away, sir!" Azzik stammered, nudging the silent Feku as her scales started to shift to white. Grasping the tray of food in their claws, they scurried to the door. Before disappearing, they wished her a good night's rest.

“Maybe tomorrow you tell us more of dragons! Especially the kissing!” Feku called, her voice brimming with excitement.

"Finally, thought they'd never leave," the guard grumbled, shutting the door with a growl. "Little lizards do nothing but jabber about dragons and other useless things. If they weren't good cooks, I imagine they'd be utterly useless." He settled onto his stool, and the wood squealed under his weight. "I don't know why the boss even keeps such filthy creatures around."

"They were at least enjoyable to talk to," Lyndis said, reclining onto her bed. "I'm wondering if you can go a solitary moment without being an utter Twat Waffle."

"I save all my disposition for smug, arrogant, better-than-you princesses," the guard retorted, grinning. "Your people couldn't even see an opportunity for progress when it was staring them in the face." He grunted and retrieved his book, muttering something about barbarians under his breath.

"Look who's talking. Could you go get the kobolds to guard my cell? Anything to remove the abysmal view of your horrid mug."

"Bet you'd like that, taking advantage of their feeble brains," he chortled. "Nice try, princess, but you won't charm your way out of this one. You're going to stay right there until Suntail is through with you. Maybe if you play your cards right, you won't end up with your brain being eaten."

"I'm not a nutter Twat Waffle," she sighed. "Nor is this the first time I've been held for some political escapade. Do you know what happened to the loony who got me the first time? An elven family that didn't like my human bloodline?"

Twat Waffle’ brow rose, “Yea?”

She grinned, recalling how her father had revealed his true identity, swiftly dispatching the traitors, painting the room with their blood. "Count your minutes, Lumarian. If my friends get wind of where I am, you're going to be decorating this room with a lovely shade of red. Mark my words. That's the optimistic scenario. The other one is you'll end up screaming as my mate lights you on fire."

Her threat washed over him like a gentle breeze against a fortress. The guard merely chuckled, turning his page. "Snarl away, kitten. No one is coming for you. The gryphons made sure of that, using magic to conceal their tracks. Face it, you're ours."

She exhaled, allowing the air to cool her insides and soothe the unease of that possibility. Deep down, she knew they had no reason to come for her other than their fleeting friendship. Though it might burn her, she clung to that hope, against all reason, that she would be proven wrong. "Come on, you idiots," she whispered to herself, "Go and be stupid, surprise me."

** * * * * * *