Heroes come in all shapes and sizes (IC)

[milkmaiden38]

A threesome ... Isola, Devon, and Art!

Isola was enjoying the ranger’s arm around her. “FINALLY, he noticed me!” she thought to herself. Then Isca pulled the "helpless female” trick adding the “we need the muscles of a man …” to get him away from her. Why didn't Isca just use a fireball to blow the door open! UGH … that sneaky little witch! … but two can play at that game … and Isola knew all about the art of seduction.

They all entered the large circular room. It was a gallery of art objects. Paintings, tapestries and hangings adorn the outside wall and pedestals displaying urns, vases and statuettes were spaced along the inside wall.

The floor and pedestals were covered with a thick layer of dust. The sturdy wooden door to the stairwell was the only entrance to the room. There was a massive hole in the outer wall ... big enough for a dragon to go through. Stones from this hole also lay on the floor along with one of the tapestries. Some of the art near the hole had been damaged by the exposure to the weather. But surprisingly most of the art was still in excellent condition.

“It’s an art gallery … full of beautiful things!” Isola said excitedly. She grabbed Devon’s arm and pulled him over to a statue of a centaur. The eyes of the statue were made from two large diamonds. “Look at the skill and craftsmanship!” she said pointing out the fine detail of the artwork as Isola breasts rubbed against Devon’s arm. She got closer to the statue and looked at the hooves of the horse giving Devon an excellent view of her cute backside. "I think the hooves are made from polished black marble!” Isola explained standing back up and turning to face Devon. She looked deeply into his eyes “These things are worth A LOT of money!” Her eyes glowed with excitement.

Then she whispered to Devon “But you’re the most exciting thing here” she said touching his arm “… and the most handsome”

Strangely … While all this was going on, Isca had been studying the tapestries.

 

[DeathsKnight]

Devon

He followed Isola quite willingly into the room, of course her almost innocent flirting didn't go unnoticed, but the comment was something he could not really ignore, he looked down at her and leaned slightly closer,

"I may be the most handsome in your eyes, but the most beautiful would belong to yourself."

He winked and focused his attention on a painting half-hidden behind a toppled column,

"No way."

He left Isola's side to get a closer look and yet there it was in full color, his great grandfather standing next to Maut. Of course the artist must have been phenomenal, it looked like he was looking through a window at the two men as they stood next to each other, Maut in his armor and his great grandfather in Heraldic mail.

 

[Iscaa]

As Devon and Isola looked around ( Isola trying her darnest to get Devon's attention, which made Isca smile momentarily), she walked over to the tapestry on the floor by the huge hole in the wall. She got the feeling that this particular piece was somehow very important, the more she studied it the more she got the feeling she had been there...somehow. She wrinkled her brow, trying to think..to remember. Suddenly her eyes widened, (My dream....this is a scene from my dream!) She carefully picked up the tapestry, carrying it to an empty part of the wall.

Isca got the tapestry hung back on the wall … She could view it better now. It was well-crafted, beautiful really, made of wool, and depicted a starlit wooded grove with a dim object in the distance. Isca tried to remember what she had been told those many weeks ago … She tried harder to discern what the object depicted in the distance in the tapestry's scene could be …she leaned in towards it, suddenly she was gone … transported into the Tapestry itself!

Passing though the tapestry had given her an odd sensation … as if her mind was not in her body any more. She looked down and saw her limbs thinking, (Well, I seem to be all in one piece), she then looked up to see exactly where she was. She found herself standing at the edge of a clearing in a dark, starlit wood. A faint shimmering is barely discernible immediately behind her. Thirty feet ahead in the center of the clearing was a statue of a dragon. Laying before it were a series of scrolls. The air smelled of damp earth and a faint sickly sweet essence of flowers closed for the night.

Isca walked to the statue and examined the dragon. It had all the same features as Venar-surr … from her dream. She picked up a scroll. It was a spell to turn stone into flesh. As Isca read the scroll, she heard sounds behind her, glancing back she saw both Isola and Devon standing at the entrance of the tapestry. She motioned them to stay where they were as she continued reading the scroll. Taking a big breath Isca decided to read the it out load (I hope I am doing the right thing), she started to read out load … casting the spell.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Venar-surr released!

As Isca read from the scroll and the magic was released … the stone dragon began to transform … change from stone to living flesh. The stone took on color … the color green/copper scales. Just like when she had seen the dragon in her dream Isca saw the scale scintillating in the light of the grove giving the dragon’s scale the appearance of being in constant motion. There was the sound of the dragon breathing as the spell seemed to complete. The dragon’s eyes blinked and the dragon head moved slowly … as her eyes came to rest on the young human.

“The student of Wizard Frunan, the Treefriend! You saved me … It is Venar-surr … the dragon from your dream …” The dragon looked around still moving very slowly as if stiff … “We are in the tapestry … you found me … you returned me to flesh!” Venar closer her eyes and suddenly her whole body glowed then the glow went away.

“Ahhh that feels better” She said a bit more lively. She saw the confusion in Isca eyes and answered her unstated question “Healing magic … I used a spell on myself” The dragon nodded. “What is your name …” and she spotted the people on the other side of the tapestry “and who are your friends?” The dragon asked still looking at the small group assembled before the tapestry.

Isola and Devon

Isola followed Devon to the painting. Slipped her arm around his waist, and pressed her body against his. She looked at the painting. “It is so realistic looking” She said “Ahh we must take it and show it to Maut. He’d get the biggest kick out of it!” Isola said. But then she thought about it a bit longer … “Ah maybe not … it might be a painful memory. What do you think we should do?” She asked him.

As she asked that question, Isca blinked away, disappeared from view, while standing before the tapestry she had rehung on the wall. Both Devon and Isola saw it happened at the same time, each looked at the other in surprise and shock!

 

[Iscaa]

Devon and Isola suddenly appeared on this side of the shimmering wall, gazing at Isca as she spoke a spell from a scroll she had in her hands.

As Isca finished speaking the spell from the scroll, Venar-surr started to appear before her. She was magnificent, as she came alive before Isca. In her wonder she dropped the scroll and stepped back, waiting for Venar-Surr to get her bearings. She blinked and looked around finally her great yellow eyes fell upon the young mage standing a few feet away. She looked down kindly and said,

"The student of Wizard Frunan, the Tree-friend! You saved me … It is Venar-surr … the dragon from your dream …”

Isca bowed slightly watching as Venar adjusted to being flesh again. Telling her about healing magic and that she now was completely healed. She asked her name, then spotted the others further away and asked their names as well. Isca smiled, before answering,

"My name is Isca and your right I am The student of Wizard Frunan, the Tree-friend! Let me introduce my friends and companions."

Waving for them to come over Isca said,

"This is Isola, a valiant woman as I am sure you will come to know. And this is Devon, a Ranger of un-surpassing bravery and knowledge. Isola....Devon I want you to meet Venar-surr."

They all looked at each other for a moment, before Isca said, I think we might want to leave the tapestry...now that I have achieved my goal. As the humans turned to go back out the way they had come in Devon looked at Isca thoughtfully, Venar bent her head down near Isca whispering,

"Isca...you might want to take some of those scrolls, you never know, they might have some worthy spells in them."

Nodding her head, Isca quickly scooped them up and carefully rolled them up inside each other as she made her way towards the shimmering wall and the other humans. Venar followed close behind.

 

[milkmaiden38]

The Wizard's tower

The group passed through the shimmering wall and were back in the tower's art room … except this time there was much less room … as the huge dragon joined them.

Isola and Devon were looking at Isca like they had a few questions to ask her, but could not ask them with the dragon present. The looks did not go un-noticed by Venar-surr.

She took a deep breath of air and blew it out again “AHHHHH that feels good … to breathe again!” She said and then her eyes glowed with hatred and she added “NOW … I WANT TO KILL AGAIN!!!!”

The dragon shook her head the glow went away “I need to eat … and I’m sure you small creatures … will want to talk. I shall return … oh yes … I SHALL RETURN … there are things I need from this tower ...for my REVENGE!” She growled. Her head exited the hole in the side of the tower, and then her body followed. With her wings stretched out, Venar-surr drop away from the tower and flew down and landed in the field near the outhouse. The sunlight beating down upon her once more. It felt wonderful to her. She was alive again! She stretched out her wings, and stood on her hind legs ... her full size on display and gave a COLOSSAL dragon roar!

She screamed at the top of her lungs in the draconic language “OHHH DEMONLORDS … VENAR-SURR HAS RETURNED … AND MY REVENGE WILL BE … SWEET!!” She opened her jaws and blast out her breath weapon … a powerful burst of wind … she focused her breath on the remains of the old fence and it flew into splinters … scattered across the field.

Her roars and yells shook the old wizard tower like an earthquake and also echoed down the tunnels of Ardel’s tomb and reached Nas’ ears.

Isola

Isola grabbed a column and held on as the tower shook. If the dangers of releasing a massive adult dragon had not been clear to her before they were now. She turned to face Isca.

“Isca … what do you mean your mission is complete … and by the fires of the ALL BURNING HELLS why did you release that dragon? It sounds insane … what do you know about her and … this revenge she speaks of?”

 

[Iscaa]

Isca looked at Isola calmly even thought the room shook with Venar's roar. She knew that the dragon would be a powerful asset to their fight against the demon-lords. She held up her hand signalling for them to wait until there was a lull in the roaring so when she spoke both Isola and Devon would be able to hear her. Finally things grew quiet enough for Isca to be heard, she smiled before beginning,

"I know you both are curious as to how I knew about Venar-Surr and her being locked up in that tapestry. I would like to wait, so I can tell everyone the story just the one time. For now I hope you will be satisfied knowing that I believe that Venar will surely be with us when we go after the demon-lords, and believe me we will need all of the help we can get. Also know this....her anger and everything that she is, will be directed towards revenge on our enemies. I would ask you to follow my lead when it comes to introducing her to the rest of our company."

Isca now waited for the two to take in her words hoping they would be satisfied just knowing that the dragon had no plans to hurt any of their party. Hearing another great roar, she added,

"As for being a little bit unstable, well, if you were stuck in that tapestry for eons, I think you would be a bit insane too. But in my heart I think she is strong and will overcome it, just give her some space and time. Do you think you and the others will be able to handle Venar's moods while she is adjusting to the real world again?"

Assuming there was no choice in the matter, Isca smiled again and looking towards the hole in the wall that Venar has so recently gone through she said,

"I think we should go find out if the others have heard dragon roar too. It should be interesting indeed, when Nas meets Venar."

She chuckled to herself as she made her way around fallen stonework and to the hole, leaning against the edge she looked down to see what the she dragon was doing now.

 

[milkmaiden38]

The Meeting

As Isca looked out of the hole in the tower … she saw that Venar-Surr roar had stirred up some “dire” chickens from the jungle. With an amazingly fast, viper like speed the emerald-copper dragon struck and killed the chickens. She swallowed each of them whole. Smacked her lips in an unlady like fashion, as her forked tongue licked her lips clean. Her tongue tasted something in the air … then she smelled the air.

She turned to face the entrance to Ardel’s tomb. Her muscles tensed, back arched, her tail swished back and forth, her great jaw opened and ready to attack the dragon coming out of the tomb. “A red dragon … they’re the worst!” She thought to herself, they have a brain the size of a sun lizard. Complete idiots.” But as Nas came more into the sunlight Venar could see that he was not a red dragon … his coloration different … odd. Almost like rust. “A rust dragon?” She thought. She had never seen a dragon like him before. This made her study him. Her muscles relaxed some and her back became less arched. Emerald dragons were the most curious of all species of dragons.

She was use to other dragons mocking her. Calling her a traitor … or weak. So she was on the defensive as Nas emerged from the tunnel. But she decided she would give this dragon the benefit of the doubt, he seemed to be working with the other races … and unless something very fundamental had changed during her time away … that was still something other dragons just did not do … or accept!

It was why they had turned on her. Why they mocked her, telling her, she was some sort of docile pet of the Wizard Ardel! She was her name … Venar-surr … crazy-betrayal. She would not do that to this male. No! She would try being respectful to start … and see how he would respond.

Venar bent her head towards Nas in a sign of peace, and then spoke to him in dragon tongue “Venar-surr … from the tropical islands in the southern waters. I’m glad to meet you. I shall be direct … I’m certain you have heard of me … as I’m one of the most disparaged dragons in the history of our kind… let me say that all of what I’m accused of …is true … and I regret none of it.”

She returned her head to a high position, her chest thrust forward … this posture spoke of pride and stubbornness. She awaited Nas’ reply.

Isola and Devon

Isola listened to Isca and was struck by her calm and self-confidence in her decision. She was acting like a wizard/witch twice her age. How those most powerful magic users could be so calm … in deadly situations was a mystery to her. Isca walked over to the tower hole and watched the emerald copper dragon feast.

“Well … I guess that settles it” Isola whispered to Devon “… if Isca’s “heart” thinks the massive insane dragon … is safe … it must be safe!”

Devon frowned at Isola. Isola stopped talking.

“Sorry … but I’m good at sarcasm!” Isola bragged and then she changed subjects saying “Shall we keep looking for this codex thing … watch the Nas and Venar-surr meeting … show the painting to Maut … or play with your stone pussy cat?”

“Sorry … sarcasm again … scratch the stone pussy cat option” She giggled

 

[DeathsKnight]

Devon's attention had been on the crazed dragon and then the meeting between the two dragons, Isola drew his attention with an odd remark and then she went on about her sarcasm, he just had to smile,

"I'll play with my stone pussy when I get the chance."

He joked back good naturedly,

"I think we can show the painting to Maut, perhaps he would enjoy to see the quality of the artist and it is one of the only things I see here, well apart from a real-life dragon bursting from a tapestry, that we can actually take along with us. Also I'm with you on finding the Codex, from what I've heard we will need it."

 

[milkmaiden38]

The Codex of Ardel ... can be found in the adult section ...

Isola and Devon walked over to the staircase … leaving Isca to watch the two dragons. They both stepped on the draconic rune step again and the stairs carried them to the top floor. Four alcoves were on the left and right walls, each holding a suit of dusty full plate armor with shields and swords held point down. A sturdy looking wooden door stood closed opposite the stairway. Thick dust coated the floor.

“Top floor …” Isola giggles. Devon and her made their way to the sturdy looking wooden door. Isola twisted the knob … and the door opened.

They both walked inside. Tables and shelves filled this room. The tables and shelves held beakers, vials, and other strange glassware, scales, charcoal braziers, books and pieces of paper. Against the south wall an open book, ink fount and a quill sat upon a large, sturdy-looking desk. A stool is lay on its side at the foot of the desk. A door stood partially open on the west wall and there is a sturdy wooden door on the east wall.

Isola looked to Devon “The book on the south wall … must be the codex!” She said excitedly. They both walked over to the book carefully … in case there were traps. But there appeared to be none.

Isola picked up the book and looked at the cover. “The codex of Ardel” was the title. Isola reopened the codex and she read the first paragraph:

“Anyone who says they have only one life to live must not know how to write or read a book ... In this book I shall examine fragile thoughts without breaking them, explore explosive ideas without fearing they will go off in my face. It will be my haven … I shall be slightly exhausted at the end ... but I will have lived several lives while writing and reading it.

“How is this gibberish going to help us defeat the demonlords?” she asked.

“Maybe there is more information in the last chapters.” Devon suggested. Isola flipped to the back of the book and gasped! “The book is still writing itself” she said and showed Devon the last page. New words appeared in sections … “What do the new words say?” Devon asked. Isola started to read them … “OH MY” is all she said and then read faster …

Devon asked again “Isola … what does it say?”

Isola looked up her face red …and then she read aloud:

“The beautiful barmaid gave me a few long strokes and said “Someone in your family must have had some fun with a racehorse … because you are hung like one!! Let me get undressed so you can put this thing in all your favorite places!”

The barmaid took off her blouse as I undid her corset, out fell her luscious breasts, they stood proudly on her chest. So big and prefect! I could tell by the arch, and the distance away from her ribcage, how huge and heavy they were. I also noticed the hardness of her nipples reinforced my sense that my massive cock had inflamed her desire.”

“It a sex novel! And it is still being written!” Isola said.

 

[Iscaa]

Isca watched Venar make a meal out of some Dire Chickens then she turned in the direction of Ardel's Tomb. When Isca saw Nas emerge out of the tunnel she put her hand to her mouth, hoping against hope they would not be hasty and go for each other's throat before talking. She watched holding her breath noticing Venar relaxed a bit but was still on guard...wanting to know more about Nas. Venar seemed to be speaking in dragon of course...but in a amiable way if you could say dragons spoke amiably.

Isca turned away wondering what had happened to Isola and Devon, looking up she was just in time to see them disappear at the top of the stair well. Looking at the scrolls in her hand, she decided to look them over for a few minutes. As luck would have it, they were spells on how to reverse living creatures that had been turned to stone back to living creatures again. She thought, (Great, I will turn the stone cat back! I wonder who's cat it was anyways.)

She quickly went up the stairs...looking the spell over, as she walked through the doorway, she started to speak the reverse spell out loud as she meandered between tables laden with all kinds of books, beakers, and what not. All the while continuing with the spell as she came towards the south wall where her companions were reading from a book.

Two things happened almost at once;

1. as Isola finished what she had been reading out loud she cried,

“It a sex novel! And it is still being written!”

2. as she finished, the pouch at Devon's hip started to squirm and a great Yowl could be heard throughout the chamber. Isola jumped back in complete surprise and fear. Devon was about to grab one of his knives when Isca shouted,

"STOP...I just reversed the spell on the stone cat.....Devon...just carefully take it off your belt, lay it on the floor and open the top....think you can do that?"

 

[milkmaiden38]

Nas and Venar-surr

Nas could feel the draconic energy from the key and he noted that Megan had become frozen. Then he heard the voice in his head … it was an ancient voice of great power and importance … the message was a simple one … “Free me!”

The key was asking to be free … free from the human’s touch … Nas reached out and pulled the key from Megan. It was a small thing compared to his massive clawed hand. From the green encrusted gems running along its surface, he thought the metal it was made from was probably iron. He continued to feel draconic energy from the key, but it no longer tried to talk to him.

Megan had turned on him and had ROARED like dragon. Nas pulled his head back in surprise … as Megan’s eyes were filled with intense anger … she leaped into the air as if she could fly … her mouth open as if to breath fire on him … and burn him away. But nothing came out. She fell to the ground with a thud. Gasping for breath.

All puzzling behavior … but these bipeds always acted strangely to Nas. Zarik moved over to check on Megan, who now lay on the ground holding her head … moaning. But Nas attention was on the key, the Heereel KuRuck, the stone breaker. It was a thing of legend.

Nas knew the story … of Gragathor, the father of all dragons … the God-touched. Gragathor was immortal and could not die. For 1000‘s of years he had existed … He grew to an enormous size … a living behemoth … a mountain that could move!

He lived in a massive cave under the largest mountain of the Dragon Tooth Mountain range. A mountain called Sabretooth, north and west of the kingdom of Palamar across the lands of the centaurs. It was at the entrance to this cave that there had been a great magical explosion and the cave was sealed up. Other dragons tried to dig Gragathor out. Nas had never tried and frankly did not care. The less he had to interact with other dragons the better. His conception … had poisoned him with his kind ... forever.

But he had heard more of the story … there was one rogue female dragon named … Venar-surr (crazy betrayal in dragon tongue) who had gone to the Wizard Ardel asking him for help. The result was the Heereel KuRuck. The key to free … Gragathor. He now held that key in his hand.

Venar-surr had been a traitor, working with creatures she should have just eaten, or turned into her servants. She had betrayed all dragons … everywhere. The mere thought of it had turned Nas’ stomach. All of dragon kind needed help to free their own god … the very thought was crazy. A lone dragon almost never needed assistance from anyone or anything. A dragon god … needing help! It was an affront to every dragon. It was an insult of a magnitude that was as large as Gragathor!

The Minotuar was talking to him … Nas slowly turned his thoughts to the present …

“… and that is why I should carry the key” Zarik concluded looking at the Dragon

Nas looked around the chamber. Megan was back on her feet, but she could not stand on her own … Maut was assisting her. Zarik was looking at him for an answer. Nas growl a reply “The key requested to be freed from human touch. I do not know how it will react to a Minotaur's touch.”

Zarik raised an eye brow on his bull face. “It talked to you? A talking key?”

Nas simply said “Yes” and handed the key over to Zarik. He took it carefully.

“It does feel magical … and heavy … but I feel no ill effects for holding it. Nas does it request a new bearer?”

Nas shook his head.

A great noise filled the cave… a distant dragon roar could be heard! The cavern shook. As Nas listened to the words. “OHHH DEMONLORDS … VENAR-SURR HAS RETURNED … AND MY REVENGE WILL BE … SWEET!!!”

His great golden eyes narrowed “Trouble!” he growled. Then he looked at Zarik “Whatever you do … do not let the female dragon have that key!” he said.

Nas did not wait for the others; they would only get in the way. This was dragon business! He turned and plunged towards the exit, with an amazing speed that his great strides made possible. In moments his large serpentine head rose up slowly out the entrance tunnel to the tomb. His eyes scanned the area. He saw the dire wolf, Brock with Nefer riding at the main door to the old wizard tower, above looking out of the hole near the top floor of the tower was Isca … his eyes scanned the forest and swamp, until they reached the overgrown field. There standing at the ready was the very striking, emerald copper dragon. Her scales were like warm copper with sea-green color. Her wings connect to her body towards her tail.

http://www.draconika.com/types/images/copper-dragon.jpg

http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs33/f/2013/269/c/9/c9e19ef55c24e484299dfc23afa63740-d1omxyd.jpg

She had massive thigh and shoulder muscles. Her dragon head contained the typical two horns but they were broader and flatter, pointing backwards towards her tail. She had a distinctive frill protruding from either jaw. Even with her mouth is closed, her two large front fangs hung outside her lower jaw. She smelled wonderful a strange mixture between the copper and the sea. She was stunning, exotic, and very very beautiful.

She was also completely crazy. Nas could see it in her eyes. Nas did not need to ask for her name … he knew there could only be one dragon like her … this was Venar-surr the female dragon of the story. She was crazy and the betrayer of all dragon kind.

Nas rose up to meet her. Venar bent her head towards him in a sign of peace, and then spoke to him in dragon tongue “Venar-surr … from the tropical islands in the southern waters. I’m glad to meet you. I shall be direct … I’m certain you have heard of me … as I’m one of the most disparaged dragon in the history of our kind… let me say that all of what I’m accused of …is true … and I regret none of it.”

Her head returned to a high position, her chest thrust forward … this posture was a challenge, an order to Nas’ to correct her statements. If there was one thing that Nas did not like … it was being ensnared into a certain action, whether directly or indirectly. It had been why he had almost killed the witch doctor that had healed his wing. HE WOULD NOT BE CONTROLLED.

He would play this out this encounter different than this wacko female intended. He would ensnare her.

In a surprise move Nas dripped his head towards her in a sign of peace, and then spoke to her in dragon tongue “Well met Venar-surr … from the tropical islands in the southern waters. I’m a dragon ... with no name … you may call me Nas from the southern dragon tooth mountains. I to shall be direct … I’m certain you have betrayed all of dragon kind.” Nas observed Venar-surr body grow more tense readying herself for a battle with him. He smiled to himself … he was now controlling her! He had ensnared her. Nas continued “While you are the most disparaged dragon in our history … I’m the second most disparaged.” Nas saw Venar-surr eyes open in surprise, she was curious … what had he done and why? Another tool for him to use to manipulate her.

Nas eyes narrowed “I assume this is not your territory … are you just passing through? … the same as I.” He asked.

 

[DeathsKnight]

The loud Yowl made Devon actually jump, he glared at Isca,

"Could you perhaps stop tampering with magic while we are in here? The next surprise might not be just an excited cat."

With a shake of his head, he pulled the drawstrings from his belt, opened the bag slightly and laid it down, lifting one side. The cat exploded from the bag, not a very happy kitty at all. Devon's attention was drawn from the excited cat to Isola reading out loud from the Codex. He couldn't help but look at her own quite splendid chest as she read about the bar maiden's bosom, something about it all puzzled him a bit, then it struck him.

"Wait, I have an idea."

He took the Codex from Isola, scanning the words as they appeared, it was getting a bit hot, with a small grin, Devon reached into the bag and found a quill, for some strange reason it was standing in a pot of ink as the tip had ink on it already. He judged the spacing and quickly wrote on the next blank line: Return to reality

The writing met the words he had written, for a few brief moments nothing happened and then the book started to glow, it became brighter and brighter, with a flash the book vanished, leaving Devon holding a man cradled in his arms. Though the man looked serious, wrinkled and old, he exuberated youthful energy and vitality,

"And I was just getting to the best part."

The tone was slightly cross, then his blue eyes scanned his surroundings, seeing where he rested, he raised an eyebrow at Devon,

"Now this is quite uncomfortable, don't you agree?"

Devon only nodded and placed the man down, then he realized the robes from a picture he had seen

"You're Ardel aren't you?"

The old wizard smiled,

"Indeed I am yes, at your service."

 

[milkmaiden38]

Isola, Devon, Isca and the Wizard

The Wizard Ardel was clad in thick robes of deep purple and green. He had long silky blond hair (now almost white with age) white beard and penetrating blue eyes. His skin was pale and face was nice but stern and powerful.

Presently he was smiling which added to his wrinkles. He reached out with one hand and suddenly a staff of black wood with a dark green crystal on the end appeared in his hand.

“Gemini … come up here” He ordered and the large male cat which had been a statue only moments before bounced up to the book table and then up on his shoulder. The cat was purring loudly.

The wizard ignored everyone else in the room and looked at the cat. There was some silence communication occurring between them.

“Oh that is terrible … cockatrices you say …well luckily you survived.” The wizard told his cat familiar.

Isola was a bit confused on what had happened and certainly was not afraid to ask.

“Wizard Ardel … aren’t you dead … your tomb is out there … I saw it!” She said pointing to where the tomb was outside the tower. The wizard smiled at the beautiful concubine.

“They said that reality is better than fiction … in your case I believe it … you are prettier than any women I dreamed up in my stories …” then his eyes looked to a faraway place, and he said to himself “Although those three wood nymphs were certainly memorable.” He grabbed Isola hand and brought it to his mouth … kissing it. It was a very old custom, rarely done these days … but during Wizard’s Ardel time quite common.

“I will explain everything … but first I need introductions. Who are you fine adventurers?” He asked.

Isola took her hand back and curtsied “I’m Isola Parnel, this is Hope, a baby we found during the journey to your tower” she said gently patting the sleeping baby still riding in the papoose. Isola pointed to Isca

“Isca is the wizard of our group and Devon Hillsong is our guide and ranger.” Isola finished.

Wizard greeted Devon with a hand shake and a knowing look. He kiss Isca hand.

“Thank you … I will keep my explanation brief … many years ago I was approached by a dragon to provide assistance. A very remarkable thing if you understand dragon pride. Anyhow, during my examination of the problem I discovered a plot by the demonlords to destroy our world and all life on it. Unfortunately, they also discovered me” He smiled a painful smile at this comment.

“So under the principal of the best way to hide something is in plain sight. I faked my own death … it was a fantastic battle of magic against the demonlords over the swamp … the magic spells lite up the whole sky! Of course, they won the battle … and my copy was buried in the tomb.

The real me … entered a magic book …” He patted the table the book use to stand on … “I had heard a quote once … Anyone who says they have only one life to live must not know how to write or read a book” In the book state I could use my hiding time to examine thoughts, invent new spells … all without fear of the consequences.” He explained.

“But … you were having sex with a busty bar maiden?” Isola pointed out.

The wizard’s smile deepened and there was a naughty twinkle in his eyes “I was in the book a long time … I guess my mind wandered.” He concluded in a stately manner. He looked crossly at Devon and scolded him “You could have waited until I was finished!”

Then he got more serious “Now, I believe there is a dragon I need to free from her hiding spot.”

It was Isca turn to gloat “Already done … Venar-surr is in the field near your tower … making friends with our dragon companion.”

Suddenly there was a mighty dragon ROAR, shaking the tower. The roar did not sound friendly. Wizard Ardel’s smile disappeared. “Perhaps we should see how they are getting along! Yes?” The small group quickly headed for the stairs to exit the tower.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Can't we all get along?

Venar-surr studied Nas. He was far more interesting then she had originally thought. She needed to know more about him. He had no dragon name … impossible! All dragon received a name at hatching, unless something prevented it. Perhaps Nas’ parents had been killed. But then he would have received a name later after meeting another dragon. Nas was too old a dragon not to have a name.

And why did dragon kind ridicule him … mock him? What had he done? Venar-surr wonder about these things as Zarik, Megan, and Maut stepped out of the tomb's entrance. Maut was still helping Megan stand. Veanr-surr answered Nas’ question but in common now … so everyone could understand her.

“Yes, I’m just passing through” She answered. “I see you travel with some interesting creatures. A human, a minotaur and … something that is dead, but continues to move.”

“Venar-surr … let me introduce Zarik, Megan, and Maut” Nas replied

Venar-surr lowered her head again “I’m pleased to meet you all. I’m certain each of you have an interesting tale to tell. I would be pleased to hear it. But first I must gather the Heereel KuRuck and the Codex of Ardel”

Nas sat back on his hind legs “You will not find the key … it has been removed.”

Venar-surr ROARED in anger “WHATTTTT!!!!”

Her eyes snapped to Nas. She studied him more, he knew something. He was much smarter than his red coloring would indicate. He was playing her, manipulating her. If this was not so important she would have actual found the whole experience attractive. There were very few dragons that could out think her.

“Where has it gone???” Venar-surr asked moving closer to Nas in a threating way.

“That … I shall NOT tell you” Nas said.

Venar-surr exploded toward him, blasting him with her breath weapon … a powerful blast of wind. It did little against Nas. But he needed to close his eyes from the sudden gust. That is what Venar-surr had hoped he’d do. She rammed into him ... her jaw with the large fangs trying to find his throat. But Nas opened his eyes just in time and he moved his neck enough so she clamped down on air.

Now it was Venar-surr that was exposed. Nas brought his clawed foreleg down at Venar-surr head trying to slam it to the ground. She jerked it out of the way. Causing her to rear backward in an awkward position. Nas rammed his body forward and toppled her over.

He was lying on top of her … like they were having sex. But this was pretty rough sex if that was the case … As Venar-surr brought her tail around and smacked him hard in the head. Nas ROARED and BLASTED FIRE right at her chest. The smell of charred scales filled the field.

Venar-surr chest and right wing were scorched. But dragons are tough and she slammed her head into his head at the same time she pushed him off her. Rolling away … the two dragons got back up and faced each other.

“WHERE IS THE KEY!” Venar-surr roared.

 

[Iscaa]

Isca and the others were just getting acquainted with the Wizard Ardel, when they suddenly heard a humongous roar ,

“WHATTTTT!!!”

The small group looked at each other and quickly rushed down the stairs towards the raucous. It was awful what two full grown dragons could do...to each other and the countryside. Once outside they joined with the others, who where trying to think of a way to stop the fight before one really got going. They listened as Venar-surr continued to question Nas,

“Where has it gone???” Venar-surr asked moving closer to Nas in a threating way.

“That … I shall NOT tell you” Nas said.

Isca moved over to Megan and whispered,

"Where is the key Megan? Venar-surr needs it."

Megan answered Isca's question quietly,

"Zarik has the key Isca, but I have no idea how we should proceed."

Isca gave this some thought for a few seconds, but also realized there wasn't a lot of time, the two dragons could destroy each other and the longer they waited, the less chance there was to cool them down. She moved over to Zarik and said,

"Zarik ...give me the key...I have an idea to stop this fight before it gets totally out of control...but I need to have the key in order to do this."

Zarik thought for a moment then reached into his pocket and handed the key over to Isca. He really really didn't want to have it, when Venar-surr found out that he had the key. The fight was now getting serious, which was scaring the dickens out of everyone. Isca stepped closer when the two dragons got back up and faced each other, and Venar-surr roared,

“WHERE IS THE KEY!”

Isca shouted as load as she could,

"I have the Heereel KuRuck. The key to free … Gragathor."

She held the key up in her hand. The two dragons stopped and looked her way, now that Isca had their full attention, she continued,

"If you both won't stop this battle now, I will destroy the key....believe me I can do it before you can stop me!"

Even though she was shaking inside, Isca made ready to cast an intense heat spell which would melt the iron key. Everyone held their breath...waiting to see what would happen next.

 

[DeathsKnight]

Maut step forward to stand next to Isca,

"And the first one to attack her will have to deal with me. There is no need to fight and there is no need to act like two childish, love sick, overgrown lizards as you two are neither."

Of course the look in the two dragons' eyes showed that they might just decide to take him on to get to or protect the key. Maut drew the Deathsong from it's sheath, the black blade filling the air with screams of anguish as it slid free, Maut took up a ready position,

"I warn you only once, Nas because you are better than this and you the other dragon, because you do not know us. Stop this fight at once."

 

[milkmaiden38]

Nas was so mad he could almost not see straight. He had trusted his traveling companions … and they had betrayed him. BETRAYED HIM. How could he have been so stupid?

Nas advanced menacingly on Maut and Isca. “BETRAYERS!!” he roared looking at Maut, Isca, and Zarik behind them. He would kill them for what they had done.

Then a thought hit him and he smiled evilly. Slowing his advance. The key should be destroyed. He had been focused on stopping Venar-surr. But anyone using the key would make a mockery of the father dragon. Gragathor was a god … he did not need help. This whole key was an affront and insult to dragons everywhere. Let the little wizard destroy the key … so much the better.

Nas continued to move closer, like he was staking his pray. “Go ahead destroy the key … that insult to all dragon kind needs to be destroyed” He growled. As he thought more, the madder he got. His growl louder “… in fact I shall destroy the key myself WITH MY DRAGON FIRE …. AND BURN YOU BETRAYERS TO ASH! He took a deep breath getting ready.

Megan pushed away from Zarik and stood shakily on her own two feet.

“Nas … Listen to me …when I picked up the key … my mind joined with Gragathor’s. You are correct, he is a great god. A powerful god. A god, all dragons should be rightfully be proud of. But the key is test. A test for dragons.

Humans have many stories about the dangers of too much pride and arrogance. It leads to complacency, careless needless mistakes, loss of awareness, alienation, and overreaching. We have a saying “Pride comes before the fall!”

The key is a test … will dragons in their pride and arrogance destroy the key … thus causing the fall? The fall of the whole world? Think … the demonlords want the key destroyed. They do not want to face Gragathor. No other gods were in prisoned … because they were not worthy. Only Gragathor! WHY? ask yourself that question! He is the ONLY god powerful enough to stop them!”

Nas stopped. He looked at Megan. “You spoke to Gragathor?”

Megan smiled “He said only two words … Free me!”

Nas looked very confused now. He thought back to that moment. He felt the draconic energy from the key. Then he had heard a voice in his head … it was an ancient voice of great power and importance … the message was a simple one … “Free me!”

Nas knew Megan was right. That voice was Gragathor’s not the key’s “I thought that was the key talking.” Nas growled.

“No … it was Gragathor talking through the key to you. He asked YOU to free him!”

Nas was stunned and just looked at Megan. Everyone knew at this point the dragon battle was over. Venar-surr body glowed again as she healed the burns across her chest and wing. Maut put his sword away. Isca whole body was shaking as the fear of what she had done … hit her. Zarik clapped her and Maut on their backs “Well done Isca and Maut … The Minotaurs have a saying for what you two just did … “A hero is an ordinary minotaur who finds the strength to face the raging dragon and persevere!”

Isola laughed and whispered to Megan “I know he is just making up these saying as he is going along … I just know it!”

Wizard Ardel with Gemini on his shoulder headed over to Maut. Gemini saw Nefer and Brock as sprang off to go say hi to those two. Wizard Ardel stopped in front go Maut. “Deathsong … I have read about it … but never seen it before. Can you draw the blade again for me? And please tell me of its powers!” The wizard said excitedly then he remembered he had forgotten to introduce himself. “Oh where are my manners … my name is Ardel, this is my tower.” He said point to the broken down structure behind him.

Venar-surr went over to Nas. She bent her head again and said in dragon tongue “Well fought.” Nas returned to the present and accepted her compliment with a nod. Venar-surr added “Would you like to hunt with me?” Dragon courtship will be explain more in detail later… but the question Venar-surr asked was similar to a human asking “do you want to go to the dance on Friday?”

Nas growled “yes” and soon both dragons sprang into the air … in search of food.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Two Cats and a Wolf!

Gemini bounded over to the very large dire wolf and the much smaller cat riding on his back. He slowed down as he got closer, his tail waving in a happy fashion. He first walked near the dire wolf … Brocks nose in Gemini’s face. They both sniffed at each, and then Gemini turned and moved along the dire wolf’s side. The male cat could see the wolf nodded his head … indicating it was ok for him to jump on his back, which Gemini promptly did.

Once on top of the large wolf … Gemini walked closer to Nefer. Soon their two noses were almost touching each other as the “hello” smell ritual was completed.

Satisfied greeting had been complete. Nefer meowed once. Kind like saying “come on guys … let me show you this …” and she leapt off Brock and headed for the some brushes near the edge of the forest. The other two looked at each other and followed.

Nas and Venar-surr

Dragon courtship can be broken into 4 phases:
Phase 1 Introduction: Dragons have large territories to hunt and control. Another dragon entering a territory will be asked politely … what he or she is doing inside the territory. If they are just passing through … there is generally no issue. If they plan to set up a lair … this can cause trouble. The exception to this rule is the mating flight. Generally single males (but in modern times … empowered single females have done this too) will fly to other territories to meet mates.

Phase 2 Time together: If the two hit it off (look and smell) … they will hunt together and get to know each other better. This is a time where the female will challenge the male (although again … there are rare cases where the male will challenge the female). Who can fly the fastest … produce the hottest flame … out think the other … anyhow if things work out. They may decide to live together in the same lair. This usually does not include combining treasure hoards. But if true love is reached … it has happened.

Phase 3 Mating. Dragons are like humans and can mate just for fun. But the female dragons will show signs to the male when her eggs are ready to be fertilized (by the way … female dragon’s only develop eggs when they are near a male.) The act of mating is private … if you are interest go to “dragonporn.com” for more information.

Phase 4 Raising the dragonlings: The female and male will sit on the eggs until they hatch. Both will instruct the young … after they achieve flight … the young dragons will leave the nest. This cycle can repeat … but dragons that do not combine hoards … generally separate at this point and find new mates.

Venar-surr had not flown in over 100 years; it felt great to be in the air again. Her mind was on Nas. A very strange dragon to be sure. He certainly knew how to fight. He had not won their first encounter … but he certainly had the lead. She had been stupid to allow him to blast her with his breath. She looked behind as she continued to gain altitude. Nas was behind her … catching up quickly. She smiled to herself … Time to see what this male was made off.

She banked sharply … and crashed towards the ground at frightening speed. Nas turned to follow … also folding his wings to increase the speed of his dive. Venar-surr headed for the open swamp … in front of her …she applied just a little bit of air braking to slow herself down … Nas was right on her tail …the swamp approaching at break-neck speed. At the last possible second … she opened her wings and swooped over the water/mud at eye popping swiftness. She produced a rooster tail of mud that covered Nas … as she laughed … “Take that Nas … who has no name!!” Venar-surr screeched. Then she saw a large water buffalo dead ahead … the poor animal never even saw what hit him. Venar-surr fore legs grabbed its head and snapped its neck in a fraction of a second … She tore the beast in half and tossed the lower carcass back towards Nas.

Nas had mud all over his face and chest … but he did not mind. He had never chased a female dragon before and he did not realize how much fun it could be. Suddenly the lower half of a water buffalo was headed right for him. Skillfully he snatched the animal out of the air with his jaw. Feeling the warm blood drain down his throat. Venar-surr was eating the front part of the animal … and was climbing again … heading toward the southern part dragon tooth mountain range.

Nas smiled to himself “She does not know … but that is where my lair is … I will have the advantage in this little chase!”

“Nice catch oh muddy one! Perhaps that is your true name … Koocus farpus (“dirty face” in dragon tongue)!” Venar-surr roared in laugher … flapping her wings to out distance Nas. But even though Nas had not flown for a while due to his injury … He kept up. In fact he was closing on the beautiful blue-green dragon in front of him.

“I never knew emerald dragons were so slow!” He roared to her.

“I’m an emerald-copper dragon … my sire was a copper … the metal in me slows me down … but I’m good at conducting electricity !” Venar-surr roared back as she drove towards the mountain peaks. “Nas was faster … but could he maneuver like she could” she thought. She picked up speed in her dive. Heading for a series of peaks … with narrow canyons.

“The human with the redhair was right … the true weakness of dragons is too much pride and arrogance! Their saying is correct … “Pride comes before the fall!”

Nas flew faster trying to catch her before the mountains. He knew what she was trying to do … He roared back “Humans are almost as dumb as goblins … I have seen them make a mess of many things!”

“I have too … but I have also seen the great thing they have done. Let go of your arrogance Nas … we are massive dangerous creatures … but we can still learn from the smallest ant!” Venar-surr roared back “NOW DON’T HURT YOURSELF FOLLOWING ME … KOOCUS FARPUS!” She screamed as she snaked through the canyons, she went through some cracks so tight … showers of rocks broke off as she passed.

But Nas was just as quick … he kept on her … and then he was gone. Venar-surr kept flying … wondering where he had gone. Then suddenly the Nas flew out of a side canyon and grabbed her. How did he get in front of her? He used a short cut! Now both of them were plunging to the ground. Venar-surr could not use her wings as Nas held them to her body.

“Let go of me … KOOCUS FARPUS … we are going to crash!” Venar-surr yelled.

“NOOO” Nas screamed back “This is the best part … death makes you feel ALIVE”

Venar-surr struggled trying to break free but could not. And then there was a great SPLASH. As the two plunged into a deep and icy cold lake. Nas’ head came to the surface first “YAHOOOOO … that is BRACING!” he said about the cold water.

Venar-surr head surfaced next; there was joy all over her face. “I should kill you for that! You scared me to death … Nas!”

“Well at least you are not calling me KOOCUS FARPUS anymore.” He said swimming to the shore. He got out and gave his great body a shake … like a dog. Water went flying everywhere. Venar-surr got out too and did the same thing.

Nas’ face got serious “That was fun ... but we need to talk … my lair is close by. Follow me” Both dragons took off and flew to Nas’ lair.

 

[DeathsKnight]

Maut stared at the wizard for a short while, then his gauntlet covered hand grasped the hilt of the Deathsong and drew it, this time there was no shriek of agony or pain, just a soft sigh which hung in the air,

"According to legend it can absorb and send anything it cuts to the realm of Death, it can even absorb some forms of magic."

Maut raised the blade, in the clear sunlight it seemed like he handled a solid shadow as even the sunlight did not reflect from the blade,

"It is the greatest honor a knight of Death can ever wish for."

Devon came closer, inspecting the blade,

"How on earth does it manage to be solid yet not reflect light? Surely it's not absorbing it?"

Maut chuckled drily, his amusement a secret to himself and that alone was scary as Maut never laughed and he found glee in death.

"It is a portal key Devon, what you see is a portal to the death realm."

With those words he sheated the blade again,

"Satisfied wizard?"

 

[milkmaiden38]

Say hello to the nice Wizard

Ardel nodded in complete fascination. “Yes … Thank you good knight.” He turned to Devon adding to the answer to his question “It is a magic that involves other planes of existance. I’m not an expert in such things. But I have dabbled in it.” He smiled to himself thinking about how he was able to create the tapestry world. The place Venar-surr had hid until the time was right.

“There are dangers with such a portal … but the maker of the sword appears to have adjusted for that” He said to himself. As no one else had a clue what he was talking about. It was about this time, Zarik, Megan, Isca, Isola joined Devon, Maut, and Wizard Ardel.

Isola took the lead “Wizard Ardel, let me make further introductions … The knight you speak to is Sir Maut al Feres of the De Grange family. The Wizard nodded his head in greeting.

Isola point next to Megan “Megan Bloodfrost is an Illumian from the guild of words”

The Wizard again grabbed her hand and kissed it “A pleasure” He said.

Next Isola looked at Zarik “And this is Zarik, from the Minotaur Kingdom” The wizard shook the big bull’s hand. “I hope you don’t mind … but I shall refrain from butting heads with you … my fine Minotaur friend” The wizard said with a smile.

Zarik laughed “Finally, I have found a human that knows a bit about culture!” Then he turned to Isola “I thought you were to find the codex of Ardel … not Ardel himself!” he ask the busty concubine.

Isola smiled “we did find the codex ... it just turns out the Wizard was inside it!”

Zarik raised both his eye brows in surprise "He is a book worm? or more correctly stated a book wizard?" He asked. Isola just shook her head.

“We have much to discuss … with the dragons off hunting … I suggest we get more comfortable in my dining room. I think I wish a bit of food and drink” The Wizard suggested.

“Wizard Ardel … please don’t take offense … but is it safe to be in your old tower?” Isola asked.

“Why of course it is …” The wizard said with complete confidence. Then he looked at it more closely, his eyebrows furrowed. “It has aged a bit … but nothing a few spells can’t fix!”

 

[Iscaa]

Nefer watched as a huge male cat bounded over towards Brock, she was glad to be on his back, not knowing this strange cat's intentions. She watched as he introduced himself in cat fashion, nose to nose as it were. They sniffed each other finding nothing amiss, Gemini then proceeded to walk along Brock's side. Getting the big Dire wolf's permission he nimbly jumped onto his back.

Nefer's eyes got huge as she watched Gemini slowly make his way up to her position on Brock's shoulder. The hair on her body stood on end, making her look a lot bigger then she really was, but she was still tiny compared to Gemini. He cautiously moved forward until their noses nearly met...they sniffed each other. Nefer smiled in cat fashion as her hair went flat on her body again.
All was well with the three of them.

Nefer meowed giving her companions the signal to come with her, and bounded off of Brock's back closely followed by Gemini...she happily lead them into a part of the forest that she had found earlier. There was odd smells that she had wanted to investigate closer, but had not the time, since there had been a big commotion with the dragons and humans.

Within a few minutes she came across one of the smells she had encountered earlier...she stopped and looked back to make sure the others were still following before continuing on. In no time all were following the scent, as it got stronger they slowed down. Nefer was the first to poke her head through the bush, followed by Brock and then Gemini between his legs. What they had come across was a very rare and beautiful creature. Sunbeams shone over a majestic white unicorn, sensing he was being watched the creature looked up in the direction of the three friends.

Brock's instinct was to give chase, but for this one time, he decided to just enjoy the animal, it must have sensed that these three companions meant no harm, for he casually continued on his way. Not long after the unicorn melted into the forest, Brock caught a scent he had never come across before. With a quiet growl he leaped toward the direction of the scent, followed closely by the cats. It didn't take long for Brock to leave Nefer and Gemini far behind, his long legs could eat up the miles like no other hunting creature.

He stopped at the base of a tree and looked up into the branches...there he saw a strange creature chewing a leaf....with all the unconcern in the world. Soon the two cats joined him looking up in the direction that they saw him looking. Nefer glanced at Gemini asked telepathicly,

"Do you know what that creature is? Should we climb up and get a closer look?"

Gemini replied,

"No I don't.....but let's get a closer look at it ...shall we?"

They both leaped onto the trunk of the tree, swiftly making their way up until they were level with the small creature. It was sitting about five feet along a stout branch, and didn't seem put out by the approach of the two cats. Nefer edged along the branch enough so she could lay down and watch, Gemini stepped onto the branch too, carefully sat down then leaned against the trunk joining Nefer....watching in fascination.

Soon the little creature finished its leaf, it stood up on it's hind legs and slowly made it's way towards the cats. They smelled each other touching noses in turn before settling back.....all was done in a friendly manner. Nefer looked down to the ground and could see that Brock was feeling left out, she somehow communicated that they should all go down, so Brock could make friends too.

The cats made their way down...bums first, as did the small creature. Once on the ground, Brock had his chance to touch noses, he smiled, as this seemed like a young one of a strange species of animal. All of a sudden there was a angry screech...four sets of eyes looked up into the branches of the tree. There was a frantic...large size creature waving it's arms and crying.

The cats and Brock moved away...watching the mother make her way down the trunk of the tree, grab her baby and rush back up to safety. She held and hugged her baby looking down to the ground. This was the signal for the three friends to continue on with their exploring.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Nas and Venar-surr

Nas flew once around his lair's entrance, which sat on the side of a sheer cliff face. Seeing no change since his departure, he landed on the thin observation perch that he had used to survey the lands below him. He smelled the air. It was good to be home again. He detected no intruders or strange odors

Venar-surr landed next to him. Looking out over the lands as the sun was moving towards a most colorful sunset. The redness in the sky made Nas’ scale color look even more red. He was a very handsome dragon. She could see that Nas was happy to be back here.

“Happy to be back home?” Venar-surr asked.

“Yes” Nas said simply and then looked deeper into her eyes. “And happy to have hunted with you.” Nas replied then his face grew cold “Happy is not a word I have used very often.”

Nas turned and entered his lair. A few bats and some birds flew out in total panic … as Nas checked on his treasure horde. He smelled the gold and silver metals, the gems, and the magic items. It felt good to know they were still here, waiting for him. Venar-surr followed him in.

He used his fire breath to start a small fire, in his fire pit. It sprang to life. Although there was not much wood, so the light it gave off would end after an hour or so. Enough time to talk, he thought. He curled up on one side of the fire, while Venar-surr did the same on the other side.

“Venar-surr … are you sure we are making the right choice? To assist the father dragon. It is crazy to even say the words.” Nas grumbled.

“Father dragon asked you to help. Are you saying he is crazy?” Venar-surr asked.

Nas shook his head “No" He thought harder about the problem "Many have tried to break the barrier ... How does the key work?” He asked.

Venar-surr smile grew bigger “To understand that … you must first understand the prison that holds father dragon. The barrier draws energy from anything trying to penetrate it. The more powerful the spell … the stronger the barrier becomes. The harder you push on the barrier, the harder the barrier pushes back. If you try to breach the barrier slowly, expending almost no energy … the barrier stops you pushing back with almost no energy. Everything is in balance. The result an un-penetrable barrier.”

Nas nodded … a clever spell. His mind was trying to figure a way around the barrier and everything he thought of did not work. “And the key, stops the power draw?” He guessed

Venar-surr smiled “No … Wizard Ardel and I could not figure out a way to prevent the power draw. However … the key is equally clever! It feeds the energy of the barrier back on itself. So as the barrier pushes back, the key draws that energy and pushes harder, … the wall pushes back even harder … the key pushes even harder than that.”

Nas understood “But what happens at the end?”

Venar-surr shook her head “The wizard was unsure … he said something has to give. That kind of feedback loop, will becomes unstable … Most likely the barrier and key will explode in magic energy and be gone from this world. Thus freeing Father Dragon.”

“Or burying him under an entire mountain!” Nas scoffed.

Venar-surr “Based upon how the demonlords fought to stop the use of the key … I believe they know it will work and fear its use.”

Nas said nothing but he was not convinced. There was an awkward silence between the two. Then Venar-surr eyes narrowed on Nas.

“Koocus Farpus … what have you done that has dragons everywhere mocking your existence and what is your real dragon name?” Venar-surr asked.

"I usually have difficulty to tell my tale. However, to you … a dragon that would spit in the face of dragon culture and pride. I do not find it as hard.” Nas joked.

Venar-surr bent her head again “Always here to help” She joked back.

“I shall be direct … my sire forced himself on my mother. A red from the north. My mother was a bronze dragon.”

Nas remained silent for a moment as Venar-surr eyes widen in shock and revulsion.

“And you were still allowed to hatch?” She asked.

Nas nodded “The dragon council decided to allow it. The reasoning was never told to me. However, my sire was consigned to oblivion. None would be allowed speak his name. No trace of his existence remains. The criminal to be forgotten, erased from existence. No legacy, no heritage, no crime. Except I remain. My mother’s hatchling name for me was 'Nasanthil'.”

“Ill-conceived" Venar-surr said back in the common language.

Nas nodded in agreement. "I was determined that I would make my own place in this world. That I would become a dragon of such ferocity and note that even those who might hate me, would also have to respect and fear me. Yet regardless of whatever I might do, I still have no name, I have only the title given me. So I am 'Nas', because there is nothing else."

Venar-surr understood much about Nas from this conversation. She also realized she could not be his mate. He was everything she was looking for in a male. Strong, fast, very intelligent … but his past haunted him and would also haunt any of his off-spring. To continue a line of rapist could damage the dragon race. This knowledge was terrible news to her, as she too had little chance to be a mate for any male. All dragon kind knew she had insulted them by seeking help from a human wizard. No male would have her. She had hoped Nas might be loathed from an equally stupid reason … but rape … even she saw a damaged bloodline.

Venar-surr voice grew sad as she bumped her head against Nas’ “You will earn a name should we free the father dragon. Perhaps “Zayafol” (translated means “the freer”).”

Nas saw the excited fire in Venar-surr eyes go out once he explained his background. He knew it would happen. But it was still a disappointment. Both of them now depressed. Nas suggested “shall we fly back to the wizard’s tower”

“No” Venar-surr answered “Let us sleep here tonight … we can return in the morning”

 

[milkmaiden38]

The Plan

Everyone was seated in the room dominated by a big dining room table. The dust was gone … and a fire was now roaring in the fireplace. In and out of the side door to this room … hot food was arriving and being placed in front of the heroes. It was just a plate of food … nothing else.

“Invisible servants, very handy … but taxing on my magic energy. But for tonight, necessary.” Wizard Ardel explained as the food came in. He had Hope on his lap and seemed to be really enjoying the baby’s exploration of the silverware, his napkin, and some of the buttons on his wizard’s cloak.

He turned to Isca “It is getting dark … shall we recall our adventurous friends?” He asked Isca about Nefer, Gemini, and Brock. She nodded and the wizard seemed to think hard about something. “They will return shortly … caution Gemini and Nefer did find a skunk … and will need a bath.” The wizard said smiling. “I believe tomato juice is effective.”

Everyone had been explaining what had happened in the years while Ardel had been in his book … writing away. The wizard had also told them about the key and the demonlords plans.

“Now please eat ... as I recap our present situation.” He said

“The demonlords have been plotting to destroy all life on this planet for quite some time now. Their first move was to in prison Gragathor. Then via a series of tricks and deceptions they have been trying to start regional conflicts. Between the elves, humans, and centaurs … just to name a few. These battles appear to swelled the ranks of the garliks. Also reduced the human, elf, and centaur forces. Their latest attempt between the goblins and humans … you all stopped … in grand fashion! Well done!!

“Then to repair human and elf relations … you find out about their greater plot. Good old Enos … sends you my way to acquire the key … and me!” The wizard smiled at this.

“So the next steps are pretty obvious.” He said and then seemed to stop talking.

Isola finally asked after finishing a bite of buttered herb dire-chicken. “So what are the next steps?” She asked.

“Oh … I thought that would be obvious, so required no further discussion.” He answered.

“I guess I’m slow … please explain the next steps?” Isola asked.

‘MMM… Ok … Nas and Venar-surr with Megan, Isca and Nefer riding on their backs … go and free Gragathor. Maut, Zarik, Isola, Brock and Devon head for the capital city of Palamar. Hope will be staying here with me. Battle fields are no place for small babies.” He explained.

“You are one of the most powerful wizards in these lands … you will not be at the battle?” Zarik asked.

“I’m retired … I want to spend time with my newest grandchild!” Ardel said. “looking down at Hope.” Then he looked up at the minotaur “I might “pop” in to help … but don’t count on it” He said. "Now any questions for me?" He asked.

 

[DeathsKnight]

Devon listened and nodded,

"I have a question, am I to go with the band as their guide? I mean that is what they hired me for in the first place."

Wizard Ardel looked at him,

"You are as part of this group as any of it's original members. You can't deny it Marcus it is in your blood to protect the weak."

Devon frowned,

"My name is Devon."

Wizard Ardel blinked and looked at Devon, taking in the Ranger cloak and visible weapons,

"Ah so you are, you look the spitting image of your grandfather."

Devon was agast,

"You knew my grandfather?"

Too late he realized what he asked, as he surmised the answer immediately,

"Why yes, I have had many dealings with the house of Hillsong and with your firend Maut, whom of course was called Daniel le Grange when he was alive. I believe I have a picture somewhere of Maut and your grandfather."

Ardel frowned, seemed to pluck at the air and a small picture appeared in his hand,

"Ah yes, the two dashing knights who fought to preserve the old code. Two strong houses back then."

Ardel handed the picture to Isola,

"There see for yourself."

Devon on the other hand wanted to sink into the ground. Now everybody knew that he was of noble blood.