Chapter 50

Below a sea of stars, the adventurers flew over the shadow-swept countryside, unseen and unnoticed. Tired limbs carried them through the crisp night air, their flight methodical and purposeful, without the fanciful dives or rolls of less pressing journeys. Arcturus found his gaze lingering on the grassy hills and the small villages and hamlets they passed. Each one, bathed in the soft glow of lanterns, remained oblivious to the silent party traversing the skies above.

Arcturus served as their guide, his keen eyes picking out landmarks across the moonlit countryside, keeping them ever close to the winding road he’d traveled countless times in his youth. The serene landscape, bathed in the silver light of the moon, stood in stark contrast to the turbulence within his heart. His demeanor hardened as he recalled training with his father through these very fields, learning the deadly art of dragon slaying. The memory was bitter now, a constant reminder that his father was dead and buried, forever ignorant of the dragon Arcturus now rode and the relationship he knew his father would have abhorred. A part of him yearned for his father to live, if only to present Veledar not as the vile, evil-infused monster he’d been taught to believe in, but as a courageous and noble being.

As they flew on, a dark speck appeared on the horizon, growing steadily larger until it resolved into a brooding stone manor. It jutted forth from the muted greens and reds of the landscape like a malevolent growth, its oppressive presence palpable even from a distance. The manor seemed to judge every flap of Veledar’s wings, its shadow stretching long across the ground beneath.

Beyond that eyesore loomed a towering mountain, its jagged peak reaching for the heavens, capped with a dusting of snow. Dark clouds had already begun to gather around its summit, crackling with electricity, heralding a storm ready to unleash its fury upon the land.

How fitting, he grimaced, that his return should be heralded by the onset of foul weather. The storm seemed a reflection of the turmoil within him, a dark omen shadowing his path. He diverted his attention to the surrounding roads that wound through the hills like a serpent, their once well-trodden paths now broken and overgrown after years of neglect. Nature had reclaimed its hold, vines and shrubs encroaching upon the crumbling stones, evidence of a place long forgotten by most. No one had reason to venture here for many years, and those who tended to the house did so from the air, bypassing the treacherous, decayed routes below.

“I hate to say it, but Lumara looks much better up here.” Lyndis said softly over the wind, She and the others rode atop Shandalar's carpet, keeping pace with Veledar's powerful wingbeats. "I can see why you hold flying with Crimson Sky in such high regard. Up here, it's as if the world lays itself bare, revealing secrets only we are privileged to see."

“I would like to think it’s my exceptional company.” Veledar replied with a tired grunt, though he still managed to roll a paw to his chest.

“Look mate.” She yawned, “If you’re going to suck your dick, I’ll pass.”

“I won’t!” Feku snapped awake, clacking her claws together as scales upon her snout began to bubble up with a dark lavender.

“Don’t encourage him!”

Veledar rumbled with amusement. "Now you're asking me to disappoint the little one. How could I say no to that pleading face?" He glanced back, a mischievous glint in his eye. "What say you, Arcturus?"

His cheeks flushed, a mixture of himself and the dragon’s flash of lust, “I think…I’m glad the estate is just over there.” Arcturus stammered, earning himself a disappointed growl.

“Oh, thank the gods, my arse is asleep.” Lyndis leaned back, stretching her arms. “Carpet is alright, but it’s no gryphon, pegasus, or dragon.”

“Can’t help but notice you listed dragon last.” Veledar growled, shooting a sideways glance.

“Aye, gryphons are fluffy and comfortable, Pegasi less so. Dragons—you have all those scales. I doubt it’s comfortable.”

“I don’t know, I find it well enough.” Arcturus shifted in the saddle, testing the seat. “Certainly, better than a horse.”

The dragon rumbled with amusement. “See, princess? Some of you have good taste. When we next meet that soft-scaled dragon of yours, I’ll be sure to inform him of your preferences.”

“Joke’s on you, red boy.” She jabbed a finger in his direction. “He’d turn into a gryphon for me, I wager.”

“Only because he likes being bossed around.” Veledar rolled his eyes and gave a harsh snort. “Mark my words, I bet he fancies being tied up like a common hog.”

Arcturus couldn’t help but chuckle at their banter, though he had to admit, even as comfortable as Veledar was, hours of riding made his own rear close to falling asleep. When he voiced this, the dragon was quick to retort.

“Oh, yours too? Try flying your arse all the time.” Veledar tossed his head dramatically. “When I land, my poor, aching limbs are going to need a good massage.”

In a swift passage, they closed the distance to the estate, traversing the lichen-streaked stone wall that encircled its grounds. Portions of the wall, weathered and succumbed to time's relentless grasp, had crumbled to the earth like the fading memory of the Lund name.

From amidst the landscape dotted with ancient trees emerged buildings veiled in shadow, relics of forgotten lore and dragon-hunting expertise. These structures stood silent and abandoned, once vibrant repositories of knowledge now locked and bound, their timeworn forms bearing witness to years of neglect. Others lay in ruin, collapsed under the weight of age.

Fields stretched out around them, divided by sturdy fences and gates fashioned in the likeness of dragons, symbols of strength and legacy. It was here that Arcturus had endured, weathering relentless training, hardship, and the crucible of his father's expectations to forge himself into a formidable hunter.

His gaze swept over the workshops where hunting equipment lay dormant, remnants of his father's pursuit to perfect the tools of dragon slaying. Beyond that, he glimpsed the study where experiments on poisons and weapons had sought more efficient means to end draconic lives. Yet amidst these shadows of the past, his attention settled on the meticulously tended garden by the house. There, exotic flowers and plants thrived under the moon's gentle touch, a testament to his mother's tender care and the cherished sanctuary she had cultivated.

"It's so small." Veledar remarked, his voice laced with disappointment. "Where are the dozens of servants to greet me, the expansive gardens sprawling in every direction? All I see are these meager buildings, forgotten fields and walls claimed by time. For a clan of dragon hunters, they've made poor use of their spoils." He sighed heavily, adjusting his wings to glide them lower. "Like so many things in life, it fails to meet expectations."

"What did you expect? That we'd live like royalty?" Arcturus retorted, his gaze fixed on the stone house that loomed before them, its presence casting a somber shadow. "I never thought I'd set foot here again."

"You never desired this place?" Veledar back winged gracefully, his hind legs finding purchase on the ground near a dark, oval-shaped door. "Why choose a small house in the city over this? It confounds me."

"I might have years ago." Arcturus admitted, dismounting and steadying himself against the dragon's flank. He scanned the towering structure ahead, noting the tall towers with their spacious windows, designed to accommodate the graceful entry and exit of gryphons.

                "So plain, no gilded door?" Veledar growled softly, swishing his tail in mild irritation. "Utterly disappointing."

“Has anything been how you imagined it?”

"Well..." Veledar turned his snout toward the paladin, emitting a rough snort. "Even you were not how I first imagined.

"And how did you first imagine me?" Arcturus inquired, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips.

"Some stuck-up, metal-wearing brute." Veledar replied, his tone tinged with amusement, "one who targeted innocent dragons minding their own business."

Arcturus's hands found their way to the dragon's scales, gently running along Veledar's chin, earning an affectionate chuff from the dragon. "Glad to disappoint you."

"Probably my favorite disappointment." Veledar sighed, his eyes closing briefly in contentment.

For a fleeting moment, tranquility descended upon the night, allowing the paladin to relinquish his troubles to the whispering winds. He found solace in the warmth and reassuring presence of his beloved dragon. Arcturus's eyes began to flutter closed, a soothing sensation spreading down his throat, akin to a gentle caress. Lost in this peaceful reverie, he felt as if he were tenderly scratching his own neck. Yet, the serene moment shattered abruptly as Lyndis's voice pierced the air with a shout.

“Fucking good to have me feet on the ground!” She stretched towards the stars.

"You can say that again, lass." Merlia replied with a yawn, sliding off Krotos and landing sleepily in the dirt. The others turned to her as she shot up, her face flushed. "No one helps me, I'll be fine! Just a wee bit tired, is all!"

"I just hope there's a place where I can examine what we've gathered from Nigel's laboratory." Shandalar mused, urging the others off the carpet.

“No rest eh Shandalar?” Veledar tilted his head.

"It's only natural. I don’t require sleep as you do, only a few hours of meditation. I'll use that time to delve into the myths surrounding that, Gold Dragon."

“Gold Dragon?” The dragon looked at Arcturus as he shook his head.

“It’s a long story, one that be told another time.” Truthfully, he just didn’t want to dwell on what came after.

"Very well." Veledar huffed, maintaining his dignified demeanor. "But I expect to be compensated for my patience with a thorough massage of my wings and belly. After that, we can proceed to other matters."

With a wave of her staff and utterance of a word of power, the carpet rose as if by invisible strings. It wound upon itself up, shrinking as it did so, until it was little bigger than a solitary coin. “Catch.” She gestured to Feku, commanding it to fly into the kobold’s open bag of holding.

“That was incredible!” Feku exclaimed, grinning from ear to ear before tying the bag and thrusting it back into the mage’s hands.

“I could have lifted it.” Asterion grunted, padding his way to the door.

“Of that I have no doubt.” Shandalar pat the bag now tied to her belt, “But here it is far safer.”

Striding over to the weathered door, Arcturus removed his helmet, mindful not to startle the gryphon butler who cared for the estate. He grasped the metal knocker, shaped like an open gryphon’s beak, and knocked firmly, the sound resonating through the wood.

Silence stretched, prompting Arcturus to raise his hand to knock again. Just as his knuckles hovered above the surface, the vision slit slid open. Behind it, turquoise eyes gazed out—those of the gryphon he had known since childhood, their expression both empathetic and stern.

“Do you have any idea what hour it is? I warn you; we’re armed in” The gryphon’s voice faltered, morphing into a surprised squawk. “Master Arcturus, you’re here!”

“I know it’s been a while, Reginald.” Arcturus replied, rubbing the back of his neck.

“You’re aware of the hour out there, sir?” Frederick chirped in; his tone edged with suspicion. “Some might think you’re up to no good. You’re not up to no good, are you?”

“Depends on the definition.” Arcturus replied.

“Arcturus, whatever shall I do with you.” mused the catbird gryphon. “Just hold on one moment.”

The vision slit closed with a decisive click, followed by a series of metallic thuds as the gryphon meticulously undid the dozen or so locks securing the door. Finally, the door creaked open, revealing a regal golden-brown gryphon adorned in flowing silks, carefully carrying a mana lantern in his beak.

"Here I thought you’d forgotten about us." sighed the gryphon, setting the lantern down with a practiced motion. His keen eyes swept over the group, feathers neatly groomed, and posture poised. "And you’ve brought guests. I must admit, the dragon is quite avant-garde."

"You're not afraid of him?" Arcturus asked, as he greeted the kindly gryphon with a gentle bump of their foreheads.

"Should I be?" Reginald, the gryphon, pulled back slightly, assessing Veledar from snout to tail. "He looks a bit scrawny, has he been eating?"

"Scrawny?" Veledar's head shot up indignantly. "I'll have you know, kitty bird, I'm quite adequate in size for a dragon my age."

“Ah yes, do we tell all the gryphons that?” Reginald chuckled, gesturing over his shoulder for the others to follow, “Now right this way, don't mind the state of things. We weren't expecting guests at this hour. Master Arcturus let's get you out of that armor and drab clothes and into something more comfortable. I'm sure we still have something that will fit you."

"Not even going to question why we need to stay here, Jeeves?" Lyndis scoffed; her arms crossed defiantly. "I don’t buy it."

"What do you think you're doing, Lyndis, looking a gift horse in the mouth?" Merlia threw up her hands. "Why not chuck ourselves out, see for yourself?"

"What do you think, madam? That loyalty does not pump through my veins?" Reginald retorted sharply with a chirp. "I've been caring for this gryphet since he was in diapers, and that won't change now, regardless of whatever trouble he's gotten himself into." He turned to Arcturus. "You did mention trouble, didn't you?"

Arcturus nodded, "That I did. The kind that demands we not stay here long."

Reginald sighed, a hint of resignation in his voice. "I suppose if they come questioning, I'll insist we were held against our will by you lot of ruffians. Now, as I was saying, follow me. We'll get you warmed up and tended to; it seems you have quite the story to tell."

“You can only imagine.”

"Then you can enlighten me over some tea." Reginald handed the mana lantern to him. "Wait till Thaddeus sees you're alive. There were rumors you had perished, but I told him there was no way you'd be done away with in such a manner."

Arcturus shook his head slightly at the mention of the gryphon's husband, another catbird who had played a significant role in his upbringing. Though he often wished the gryphons had been less vigilant about his actions growing up, ensuring he stayed out of trouble, their care and concern were undeniable. The others followed closely behind as they made their way inside.

Reginald led them through the hallways of the ancient Lund estate, the air thick with the scent of aged wood. The walls, paneled with dark, polished oak were lined with portraits of stern-faced ancestors, the eyes of his ancestors and their gryphons seemingly follow the latest of their bloodline with derision.  Gilded frames held oil paintings depicting duels and long passed bouts with dragonkind, they were separated by great tapestries of varying colors, muted now with age. Flickering candle sconces cast long shadows with but a click of the beak from the butler, the light gleaming off suits of full plate armor they passed, dwelling in their alcoves.

Arcturus shivered as he fell into the familiar rhythm of his stride, each step echoing with the ghostly memories of his youth within these ancient halls. The cold stone walls seemed to whisper secrets of days long past, almost conjuring the image of his father, bursting forth with a booming laugh, or his gryphon nanny, her feathers ruffled as she scolded him for not eating enough, always hinting that her niece would have made the perfect wife for him. As they continued their journey, Reginald introduced himself to each of them in turn, with all the charm and dry wit he usually possessed.

"Crimson Sky, eh?" He lent a critical eye, his gaze sharp and discerning. "Sounds like a title. I reckon I should get to know the dragon Arcturus here fancies."

Of course, he had seen it. Reginald's perceptive nature had always been a formidable force, capable of deciphering Arcturus's thoughts with uncanny precision, reading his body language with the ease of a seasoned sorcerer unraveling a spell. Yet, despite this, it did not stop Veledar from gasping in astonishment.

"How did you deduce that?" The dragon cocked his head, curiosity gleaming in his eyes.

"I have my ways," replied the gryphon with a prideful smirk. "So, what is your real name?"

"Something that shall not grace your ears or beak until you’ve earned it." Veledar growled, his voice rumbling authority as he ducked his head to avoid a low-hanging ceiling beam. "Until that day, it shall remain an enigma."

“Is there some exception for friends of the family?”

"No." Veledar replied firmly.

Reginald sighed, his feathers ruffling in resignation. "I suppose that shall do for now."

The dragon smirked at his victory, shifting his attention to the hall around them. "To think... I am in the house of the world’s greatest dragon hunter family." Veledar chuckled, his deep voice resonating through the corridors. "And not a thing to break, smash, or even burn!" He wrinkled his snout in mock disappointment. "Once again, I find myself disappointed in this place."

"I'll ask you to take care and refrain from destroying our things." Reginald admonished Veledar with a harsh chirp. "Might I suggest a less destructive distraction when we get to the den? I do believe the master’s chess set is still there."

 “Don't worry dearest dragon. I am sure we can find something here for you to smash.” Arcturus spoke up as passed a grandfather clock, its hands the shapes of roaring lions.

“Ah, Master Arcturus, ever the problem-solver." Reginald remarked wryly, his tone laced with subtle sarcasm. "While I admire your ingenuity, I would prefer if the estate remained standing, thank you." He turned to Veledar, his gaze meeting the dragon's with a hint of mischief. "However, if our esteemed guest is in need of some... stress relief, perhaps we can find a more suitable outlet. There are some old outbuildings in the far corner of the estate that could use some... renovation. If your destructive spirit is alive in well come morning, feel free to lend your paws." His eyes twinkled as he glanced back at Arcturus. "Consider it a mutually beneficial arrangement.” With a chirp, he gestured to the others. "Now, let’s focus on getting everyone settled. We can discuss the finer points of recreational destruction over a warm cup of tea."

They stepped into the den, immediately enveloped by a sense of grandeur that bespoke generations of dragon hunting prowess. The room exuded an ancient magnificence, its atmosphere tinged with the faint scent of aged leather and the faintest hint of pipe smoke. The centerpiece was a grand stone fireplace, its mantel intricately carved into the shape of a dragon’s maw, wide open as if ready to devour the flames that would dance upon its tongue. Above it, a massive tapestry adorned the wall, depicting a serene woodland scene with dryads and centaurs amidst ancient trees, its colors softened by the passage of time. Shelves lined the walls, holding a vast collection of weathered tomes and curious trinkets gathered from distant realms. Gleaming curios, ancient artifacts, and cherished family heirlooms whispered tales of his ancestors' exploits.

"I do apologize for the state of things." Reginald said with a slight bow, his ears perking up as he gestured for each of them to settle by the fireplace. "Years ago, we would have maintained it far better, with a full staff. But alas, for now, you'll have to make do with Thaddeus and me."

"Well, it looks good to me!" Merlia exclaimed boisterously, flopping herself onto a chair with the grace of a seasoned adventurer, leaning back with a pleased grin and crossing her arms behind her head. "Besides, I like a bit of dust and age. Don't trust something too clean.”

"And of course I apologize for the lack of quarters; the others have been cleaned out." the butler explained solemnly, his gaze drifting upward as if searching the rafters for answers from the past. "All, of course, save the master’s, should he have returned."

"So only Arcturus gets a bed?" Lyndis rolled her eyes, letting her bag drop to the floor with a huff. "Figures."

"Hah, guess you have to rough it, princess. Try not to weep too hard." Merlia teased.

"I’ve stayed in worse places." Asterion grunted, settling onto a seat with Feku scrambling onto an adjacent one.

As everyone settled in, Reginald excused himself, tasked with fetching pillows and blankets. Veledar, with utmost gentle care, used a small stream of his flames to quickly dry and ignite the remaining wood in the fireplace. Soon, each of them found solace in the dancing warmth of the fire, the night's weariness and chill beginning to ebb away. Armor clattered to the floor, gear was set aside, leaving the gathered adventurers in their casual shirts and trousers. Silence filled the room, each mind lingering on the events of the night—the victories and the losses that weighed upon them all.

"Here we are, just as I said I would." Reginald announced upon his return, rolling in a silver cart stacked high with blankets and pillows. "It seems my dear husband has chosen to prioritize his beauty sleep over our unexpected guests. Bless his feathers, but sometimes I wonder if he shall be the death of me. Regardless, I do apologize for his absence."

"No need, didn’t expect to be treated like this anyway." Lyndis remarked casually, padding over to snatch a pillow. "It’s a nice surprise."

"That’s because in your insanity you don’t like to be pampered." Veledar added in his deep, rumbling voice, his massive form coiled around the chairs, too large for their embrace. His paws had found their home wrapped around Arcturus, gently kneading the man’s chest. "Though I of course expected more."

“Well, no one asked you.”

Arcturus rolled his eyes as Reginald went to each of them, fussing over their state as if he were a caring parent. It reminded him of years past, some might have thought the gryphon was his own father. When it came to his turn, the gryphon caught his eye, a tinge of guilt lingering in the paladin’s mind. “Reginald.” He grimaced, knowing now he could have just reached out these past two years, “Things always got away from me…I didn’t mean to- “

"It's quite alright, Master Arcturus." Reginald replied with a tender chirp, his talons deftly arranging the blankets. He paused for a moment, then leaned in slightly, pressing his feathered forehead gently against Arcturus's own. "Though it's been a gryphon's age since we've seen you here, I'm simply glad to have you grace these halls once more."

Reginald pulled back slightly, his eyes meeting Arcturus's with a hint of warmth beneath his usual dry humor. "Perhaps I should start preparing the guest rooms with a bit more... flexibility in mind. Dragons, it seems, bring a certain... grandeur to our humble abode."

“I’d not count your gryphets before they hatch just yet.” Replied Arcturus softly, “I don’t think we’re staying long.”

"Well, Master Arcturus." Reginald replied with a subtle twinkle in his eye, "I suppose every journey begins with a step, whether it's a fleeting visit or a more... permanent arrangement." He glanced over at Veledar, the dragon, with a knowing nod. "And who's to say what the future holds. I've always found that the Lund estate has a way of... changing one's plans." Reginald adjusted a stray pillow with meticulous care, “Regardless, if you find yourself in need of accommodations again, rest assured that the Lund estate will always have a hearth and a warm bed waiting for you. Dragons included, of course."

It wasn’t long before duty pulled at the gryphon once more, Reginald chirped softly, his feathers rustling. "If I may be so bold as to leave you in the capable claws of Crimson Sky here, I shall fetch some tea. It would be a shame to let our guests languish without proper refreshment."

“I can help.” Feku exclaimed, leaping from her chair.

"Ah, little kobold, your willingness to lend a hand is most appreciated." Reginald brushed her away with a gentle wing. "However, I must insist on handling this task myself. The preparation of tea requires a delicate touch, and I have a particular way of ensuring everything is just so."

When she cocked her head in disappointment, Arcturus merely scoffed, “Don’t take it too personal, think Reginald here will die of embarrassment if anyone save Thaddeus lent a hand to help him. Last time I tried he struck me with a broom.”

“If I recall correctly, the young master learned the importance of respecting a butler's sacred domain."

“Hey, catbird, if you don’t mind, tea be great and all, but do you got anything to warm the bones?” Merlia leaned up against Krotos, the gryphon now serving as her couch.

“I agree, I too could use some spirits.” Asterion nodded, stoking the fire with a dragon shaped poker.

Reginald bowed his head, “I’ll see what I can gather from the cellars, I’m sure we have something more suited for gryphons and dwarves. Though I’ll kindly ask the rest of you of not partaking, I’d like it not known I murdered my guests.”

When Reginald departed once more, the adventurers gathered to share their accounts of the night's events. They spoke of the deaths of their friends, the loss of Ulga—every sorrow laid bare. Arcturus recognized the name Merlia spoke, the siigonis named Soggu, the blue-scaled lizardman who had claimed the playful spirit. Soggu was familiar to him, a member usually found in Garroth's adventuring party.

"He's a master of spiritual magic, manipulating elements and such," Arcturus explained, rubbing the back of his neck wearily. "Apart from that, and his origins from the marshlands far to the south, I know little more."

Merlia shifted her weight, leaning up against Krotos’ feathers. "Just knowing his name will do." she affirmed, clenching her fist tightly. "So, I know whose skull to split when I meet him. By Thor’s thunder, he's not seen the last of me."

"That might prove challenging." Asterion grunted, his gaze unwaveringly serious, "but you shall have my spells when the opportunity arises."

She sniffed, wiping her eye with determination. "Good to hear, lad. Here's hoping for a proper fight, where our knuckles end up bloodied and sore."

"Arcturus?" Shandalar stood, her tone tinged with impatience. "Is there a library in this place where I can be alone?”

"What's the matter, Shandalar? Already tired of our company?" Veledar chuckled, his eye half-lidded in amusement.

"While you all enjoy your camaraderie," Shandalar retorted crisply, "I'd like to study what we've gathered."

Without hesitation, Arcturus rattled off to the location of their research room, a place his father had meticulously assembled with tomes and charts dedicated to the art of dragon slaying. Here, one could find detailed information on every aspect of dragonkind: from their flight speeds and common magical abilities to intricate details of their biology and vulnerable points in combat.

“Would you like a guide?” Arcturus began to rise from Veledar’s paws, but the dragon held him firmly in place. “No need. I am quite capable.” Shandalar nodded graciously to the others. “I wish to express my gratitude for your efforts this evening. Despite the challenges, they were quite commendable.”

“Yea, we liked your company too.” Merlia gave her a wink, “I can honestly say, would do it again.”

Reginald chuckled softly as he returned, a glint of amusement in his eyes. "I must admit, Master Arcturus, you've always had a knack for turning the expected on its head. Though one does wonder, how does one navigate the intricacies of courtship with a dragon? Are there... fire-breathing courting rituals I should be aware of? Should I be concerned to wake and find the estate aflame?”

His feathers rustled slightly as he reached out, his hand finding its way to Arcturus's thigh, a gesture of camaraderie and support. Their eyes met, and Reginald's gaze softened with sincerity.

"In all seriousness." he continued, his tone earnest, “I’m glad you found someone, it’s good to be reminded that love knows no bounds of race or lineage. After all the trials your family endured... May it bring you both the happiness and fulfillment you deserve.”

He nodded as his heart stretched; to think he had all these threads that all he had to do was pull. If only he tried, perhaps the last two years would not have been so dreadful. “It’s good to hear Reginald.”

"Ah, nonsense." Reginald chirped, his feathers ruffling slightly with a gentle grin. "Just doing my job as always." He pulled back from their embrace, giving Arcturus a moment of space before continuing.

"Now, let me get out of your hair." Reginald added with a playful sway of his haunches, "If you do need anything else, don't hesitate to knock." He went a few paces before pausing, turning back with a teasing glint in his eye. "And Master Arcturus, Crimson Sky." he continued, his tone dropping to a whisper, "if you do retire to the master's quarters, do try and keep it down. We imagine that dragons are quite loud..."

“Do not worry, I have a spell for that.” Veledar rumbled as Arcturus’ cheeks burned.

“Will do.” Arcturus managed to stammer out before wishing the gryphon goodnight.

“Good gryphon that one.” Veledar added softly, lingering on the exit, “Though I can’t help but notice you never mentioned him.”

Guilt gnawed at him, “Sometimes you’d be surprised by what slips the mind, or what obvious specter is staring you in the face. If only you’d listened, paid more attention- “

“Or dwelled so much on your pride- “

Their conversation faltered under the weight of the looming somber cloud. As Lyndis and the others drifted into slumber one by one, even Asterion and Merlia, who had been jovial and sharing drinks earlier, were now lost in the depths of sleep, their heads resting on soft pillows. Only the knight and his dragon remained awake, their hands and paws finding solace in each other's presence beside the crackling fire.

"I lied earlier." Veledar suddenly confessed, his voice tinged with disappointment. "About my book. I sacrificed it trying to save you in the vault."

Arcturus felt the weight of those words deeply. He knew how much the heirloom had meant to the dragon, and he bowed his head in remorse. "I should have gone with you when you asked." he admitted, his hands gripping the crimson scales of Veledar's paw. "I swear on my last breath that I'll make this up to you, even if it takes the rest of my life."

"Your conviction is admirable," Veledar growled gently, nudging Arcturus's cheek with his snout. "But it wasn't your fault. Your presence wouldn't have saved it from its fate. Perhaps I would have perished trying to retrieve it from Nigel's grasp." He turned his gaze away with a heavy sigh. "It seems my greatest treasure was always destined to be beyond my reach." His tail thumped against the floor bitterly. "So much for my legacy as Crimson Sky, the dragon who let thieves slip through his claws."

"I don't see you that way." Arcturus insisted, shifting slightly in Veledar's embrace.

"And how could you see anything else?" Veledar snorted. "That lich got what he wanted—from me and my mother. I trapped him in his own machines, but I doubt that was enough to kill him. He'll be free to terrorize the countryside again, if not me, then someone else."

"Your mother?" Arcturus questioned gently, seeing the pain in Veledar's eyes. "How did he—"

"He knew things about me that he shouldn't have. He traced my home through hers." Veledar interrupted with a growl, his voice trailing off in bitterness.

Arcturus drew closer, sensing Veledar's anguish. "Are you alright?"

"Of course not!" Veledar hissed, "That wretch still roams this plane, untouched by natural means. I won't rest until he's pulverized to dust, his vile presence obliterated from existence. I’ll make him rue the day he invoked my wrath." He tossed his head defiantly. "Even if it seems impossible... I'll find a way."

As Veledar fell silent, doubt casting shadows on his scales, Arcturus moved nearer, a steadfast shield against despair. "Then it seems we share yet another goal." he said softly, gently lifting Veledar's chin to meet his gaze. "But I don't believe you've failed. Look around at what you've accomplished." He gestured towards the sleeping adventurers. "Each of us, with different paths and purposes, united and achieved the impossible because of you. No force could withstand us—not the king's soldiers, not his greatest inquisitor, not even the undead lich by his side. Veledar, your quest may not have ended as planned, but you've done immense good in the time I've known you. If that doesn't ease the ache within you, know that you've touched me deeply, pieced together the broken parts of who I was and made me whole again." His eyes shimmered in the firelight. "And for that, I'll forever be grateful... When I look at you, I see the bravest, most courageous—"

"And gorgeous?" Veledar rumbled playfully.

"And gorgeous." Arcturus chuckled, wiping away his tears as Veledar nuzzled him affectionately.

"You always know how to say these things," Veledar replied warmly as Arcturus gently stroked his chin. "A knight with a silver tongue, lifting the spirits of his beloved."

When he stopped their eyes met, a whirlwind of passion raging around them. Arcturus pressed his lips against the dragon’s own, getting a pleased warble. When Veledar pulled back he turned his head, opened his maw and swiftly shoved his tongue down the knight’s yielding throat. In no time they were jousting tongues, paws clasped firmly upon flesh as Arcturus massaged scaled cheeks. The air grew warm with their passion, the pair lost in each other’s embrace.

In time, they withdrew from the seductive haze, breaths ragged, pulses racing with an undeniable anticipation of what was to come. Veledar's request was direct, delivered with a low growl.

“Where is your room?”

Blushing, a grin playing on his lips, he gently traced his fingers along the dragon's snout. "Two floors up. Do you think you can wait that long?"

"We shall see," Veledar replied, grabbing Arcturus by the collar and dragging him out the room.

** * * * * *

They collapsed onto the bed, breathless from their passionate union. Held firmly by the dragon's powerful embrace, Arcturus was ensnared against his belly in a tender moment, kissing Veledar's scaled paws, reveling in the comforting warmth that enveloped him.

"That soothes the night, I imagine." Veledar sighed contentedly, resting his head on Arcturus' bed. "Never thought I'd find myself here, especially in this estate, doing what we just did."

"I love you, Veledar, my sweet dragon." Arcturus whispered affectionately, kissing Veledar's paw.

"And I love you, my beloved Umraadi." Veledar responded with a rumble of satisfaction, mischief twinkling in his eyes. "Though tonight may have been bittersweet, and my treasure taken, on this journey I've discovered something more precious, something that satisfies the soul."

Arcturus gently caressed Veledar's chin, appreciating his companion's eloquence. "You have a way with words, my dear."

"You make my loss bearable." Veledar continued, his voice a soothing rumble against Arcturus' skin. "No matter how small I may feel, one glance at you, Umraadi, and I feel like the greatest, largest dragon in the world. You are my greatest treasure."

Arcturus sighed contentedly, the soft rumble of Veledar's voice echoing in his ears like music. Just like with Selina, he felt unclouded here, surrounded by those who supported him. Leaning against Veledar's chest, he listened to the steady rhythm of the dragon's powerful heart, their emotions intertwining through their bond. Closing his eyes, he lost himself in the sensation, unable to distinguish where he ended and Veledar began.

"Just as you are mine." Arcturus murmured softly, “Veledar my great, handsome, alluring dragon, whose beauty is rivaled only by the stars themselves.”

“I’m more beautiful than stars.” He growled playfully as he held Arcturus closer to his chest. With a deep breath they closed their eyes, swiftly drifting into sleep’s embrace.

** * * * * *