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Story Hour
Bitterness Overcome: (Now A Completed Story!)
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<blockquote data-quote="Nonlethal Force" data-source="post: 3217184" data-attributes="member: 35788"><p>Ischarus and Tierna made quick introductions since they had not met prior to seeing each other here for the first time. The party quickly decided that Ischarus and Rhema should lead. Ischarus graciously allowed Tierna to continue to guide Elistra so that Tierna could stay at the front among the rest of the party. With both Ischarus and Rhema having weapons that radiated light the tunnel ahead seemed much less bothersome.</p><p></p><p>It was a grueling ten more hours of walking before the people finally reached the edge of the mountains. Ischarus and Rhema guided them masterfully and there was little incident except for the occasional spider being caught of guard and scurrying away before the main column of villagers could get to it. As they approached the tunnel entrance, Ischarus and Rhema could both see that it was night outside. None of the dragons could be seen from so far within the tunnel.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus easily jumped back into the leadership role that he had given over to Rhema almost a month ago. <span style="color: LightBlue">“Charis, tell the people to wait here. Like I said before, I didn’t actually see the end of the battle and I don’t see any dragons waiting for us. If the villagers stop here they should still be out of range from the red wyrm’s devastating breath.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema turned to say something to Ischarus but thought better of it. She simply give Shauvry’s reigns to Tierna for the time being. As Ischarus stepped forward, Rhema joined him. Ischarus turned to chastise Rhema but this time he knew better as well. There was no use arguing with her. She had just regained him earlier in the day; she wasn’t about to risk losing him again so soon.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus motioned for her to stay behind him and she accepted the invitation graciously. Regardless of whether she was a dungeon expert or not she knew better than to take a place on the front line, especially if there was one as capable of filling the role as Ischarus was. Just before Ischarus could see the end of the tunnel within the radius of the illumination coming from his sword the magic within the sword winked out. Rhema’s weapon still glowed as brightly as ever.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus held out his hand and stopped as soon as his sword lost its magical effect. He stepped gingerly towards the end of the tunnel knowing full well that either the magic ran out or something was aware of his presence and had cancelled the magical effect. Considering the light had glowed for over half a day, Ischarus wasn’t sure the magic hadn’t simply chosen a poor time to end.</p><p></p><p>Once Ischarus had gotten close enough to the tunnel entrance to see outside by the starlight he turned and motioned for Rhema to sheath her own weapon and follow him. She eagerly accepted and crept closer to the end of the tunnel. Once they were together again Ischarus began slowly moving forward.</p><p></p><p>As they approached five feet from the end of the tunnel a booming voice echoed down the length of the tunnel even to where the villagers had been halted. <span style="color: SlateGray">“About time you figure out how to get through the tunnels!”</span> The deep draconic voice transitioned from speech to laughter.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus jumped at the sound of the voice, but smiled immediately afterward. Rhema likewise jumped and drew her sword, bathing the tunnel in light. Her mind eventually caught up with her actions and she paused for a moment before speaking. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“That voice! I know that voice. That was the voice that spoke to me in the tunnel!”</span></p><p></p><p>Before Ischarus could respond, the draconic voice bellowed out again. <span style="color: SlateGray">“Well, child? Are you going to introduce me to the one you have brought to meet me or not? As you know, we have already spoken. But I would like to make her acquaintance more officially.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema turned to Ischarus with surprise. Ischarus smiled and extended out his hand towards Rhema. <span style="color: LightBlue">“Come, there’s someone I’d like you to meet.”</span></p><p></p><p>As the dragon’s voice echoed throughout the tunnel, many of the villagers began to panic. Thankfully Druff and Xando were prepared in the rear and Semeion and Charis had the front flank. As Ausaphaborishan’s voice boomed and echoed throughout the chamber and was followed by the deep draconic laughter, several of the villagers began to yell in confusion.</p><p></p><p>Druff and Xando were at the back and unable to make out the dragon’s comments completely on account of the echo. As the people began to panic, both Xando and Druff reassured them. <span style="color: Lime">“We are still deep enough underground to not need to fear the mighty dragon breath! Hold your ground!</span></p><p></p><p>Semeion and Charis were close enough to hear the dragon’s speech in addition to being able to see the body language of Ischarus and Rhema. They quickly determined that it was indeed Ischarus’ dragon father and sent the word back through the crowd. Semeion turned and shouted to those closest to him. <span style="color: Plum">“All is well!”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis continued where Semeion had stopped. <span style="color: Orange">“That is the dragon father we seek! The truth of your freedom is verified!”</span> Slowly the immediate panic of the vilalgers turned into elation. The crowd of villagers swelled towards Semeion and Charis as the message of their freedom was received further back into the crowd.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus and Rhema had but a short time to meet with Ausaphaborishan while the villagers were being brought under control. Ischarus boldly stepped out of the tunnel with Rhema in tow. He had clasped her hand tightly and beckoned her to follow with his eyes. She followed eagerly. She was ready to meet his dragon father for the first time.</p><p></p><p>As the pair left the tunnel to stand on the flat rock platform under the stars, Ausaphaborishan spoke to them. This time his voice was much softer so that only the pair could hear him. <span style="color: SlateGray">“Forgive my game that I played with you. I could hear you coming for nearly a mile and I could feel the ground shaking even before that. I ducked out of sight so that you would approach slowly. At just the right time I caused the magic of your sword to cease, although I did not realize that your friend’s weapon was also enchanted. I hoped to surprise you!”</span></p><p></p><p>Ischarus smiled and bowed deeply as his dragon father proudly told the tale of the planned deception. <span style="color: LightBlue">“Indeed you did, dragon father. Indeed you did. I believe you also surprised Rhema, my companion here.”</span> He turned to face Rhema and continued speaking. <span style="color: LightBlue">“Rhema, I would like to introduce you to Ausaphaborishan, my dragon father.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema was caught speechless. She had never expected to be face to face with a dragon on such good terms. Her initial instinct was to extend out her hand in greeting, but the dragon’s deep laughter at her action brought her to the realization of just how silly the gesture was. Here was a creature that dwarfed her in size and did not even have hands.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus smiled at Rhema’s gesture. He politely corrected her in a soft tone. <span style="color: LightBlue">“Dragons do not shake hands, Rhema. The proper greeting is a bow.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema bowed deeply as if on command. The silver wyrm responded with a similar deep bow of his head and neck. Before Rhema could stand upright again the dragon also raised his front right clawed foot. He softly brought the foot up to Rhema’s head in order to tussle her hair. As he did so, he continued to laugh. <span style="color: SlateGray">“Do not fear, little one. Many make the same mistake upon meeting dragons of all sorts. But I can see why Ischarus has interest in you. You have a zest for life and a strong desire to please.”</span></p><p></p><p>The silver dragon paused to allow Rhema to reply, but her reply was cut short by a loud commotion in the tunnels. Apparently this was all the time that Ischarus and Rhema would have with Ischarus’ dragon father for the moment. The villagers had been convinced of their freedom by Semeion and Charis and they surged forward to meet the dragon that had defeated their own dragon father. As the villagers approached where the dragon stood, they instinctively stopped and bowed in worship. One by one their knees hit the ground and their heads bowed low.</p><p></p><p>Ausaphaborishan laughed comfortingly, as if he were an amused parent. <span style="color: SlateGray">“Ischarus, tell them to rise. Tell them that you do not worship us like gods. Tell them that we live among one another in peace, trading protection and wisdom for companionship.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ischarus turned, but he could see for himself by the expressions of the villagers that they had already heard. Each and every one of the red wyrm’s Drakontai had a shocked look upon their face. This was especially true of Tierna. Ischarus could tell that he need not relay any message to these people.</p><p></p><p>Ausaphaborishan continued his speech. <span style="color: SlateGray">“People of Quehalost, I welcome you to the free lands of Tongra. But it is not I who should welcome you. Stay here for one minute as I leave. I caution you that when I return you will feel a true urge to run and hide, for I shall return with two more dragons. The one who makes me look small will address you properly.”</span></p><p></p><p>Without waiting for a response, Ausaphaborishan unfurled his great wings as leapt off the platform of rock. He circled once before turning toward the mountain face and beating his wings hard to surge upwards into the sky. Llywessiar and Sappurapolician had both taken up a position higher in the mountain to rest, heal, and perhaps even nap while Ausaphaborishan guarded the entrance to the underground tunnel. As the silver wyrm climbed to the proper height he could see that the other members of his flight were fast asleep. The silver wyrm smiled and landed solidly beside each of the other dragons.</p><p></p><p>Both of the dragons jerked awake and rose to their feet as quickly as possible. As they jerked awake, Ausaphaborishan leapt once more into the air and circled above them. The silver wyrm addressed his flight leader as he circled. <span style="color: SlateGray">“Llywessiar, the people have come and await your address. I have warned them that three dragons will be returning, so they should hopefully not spook so easily.”</span></p><p></p><p>The gold dragon smiled. <span style="color: Yellow">“How did they greet you? Were they timid, aggressive, or indifferent?”</span></p><p></p><p>Ausaphaborishan merely laughed. <span style="color: SlateGray">“They bowed in worship.”</span></p><p></p><p>Sappurapolician laughed as well. <span style="color: Sienna">“Did you honestly expect anything less from the Drakontai of a red wyrm? The have no doubt had obedience drilled into their heads from the day that they were conceived!”</span></p><p></p><p>Llywessiar replied, <span style="color: Yellow">“Yes, indeed. In that case they will need a gentle hand guiding them.”</span></p><p></p><p>Llywessiar and Sappurapolician joined Ausaphaborishan and took to the sky. The trio descended down to the rock platform where the villagers awaited them. All of the villagers had to return into the tunnels so that there would be room upon the platform for all three dragons. Even with the villagers pressed back into the tunnel it was a tight squeeze. Of course, the villagers had no trouble backing into the tunnel. It was their natural instinct to want to flee out of the way of the gold dragon especially.</p><p></p><p>In spite of the terror, the villagers were awed by the trio of draconic beings. The same could be said of Rhema, Ischarus, Charis, and Semeion. This was as close as any of the people gathered had come to this many dragons at the same time. It was simply amazing to watch the trio descend in great circular passes from the higher mountain peak onto the rock platform outside the tunnel. </p><p></p><p>The dragons landed with Llywessiar in the center. He was flanked by Ausaphaborishan to his left and Sappurapolician to his right. It was clear that this would be an official meeting between Llywessiar and the villagers.</p><p></p><p>Llywessiar spoke confidently before the people. <span style="color: Yellow">“Freed people of Quehalost, your tyranny is over.”</span> The dragon paused, expecting some kind of cheer. However, the gold dragon did not receive a cheer from the villagers. In truth, most of the villagers strongly desired to cheer but their fear of the dragon was too much to overcome. They simply stared back at the large gold dragon while in their worshipful kneeling position. </p><p></p><p>Llywessiar continued his speech once he realized the people were unable to overcome their fear. <span style="color: Yellow">“You are about to taste freedom for the first time. No, actually, you have been living in freedom for almost a month now. But it has not been complete freedom. You had the freedom to work and play when you wanted but you still lived in fear that your dragon father would find you. I saw the destruction of your dragon father. He was given the option of fleeing with his life but in his arrogance he forced us to slay him. In the end, for you it is better to have that conclusion. You need not fear him any longer!”</span></p><p></p><p>The gold wyrm paused once more to allow cheering; but when it was obvious that the people could still not overcome their fear he quickly continued. <span style="color: Yellow">“Yet you will need training to live in this world. In many respects it is easier to live in bondage. Your daily tasks are told to you. You are told what to think and what to believe. You are told what to do and how to worship. None of this is true any longer. With freedom comes the ability to make up your own mind. You will need training to live in this world. Who is the leader among you?”</span></p><p></p><p>The villagers looked around at one another. There was nobody who rose immediately and slowly all eyes fell onto Druff and Xando. They were kneeling beside one another and both could feel the pressure from the rest of the villagers. Llywessiar could also see that these two were the ones to whom the others looked.</p><p></p><p>The gold dragon spoke directly to Druff and Xando. <span style="color: Yellow">“Rise, children, and tell me your names.”</span></p><p></p><p>Druff and Xando slowly raised themselves up in unison, standing above the rest of the kneeling villagers. Druff turned to Xando, who introduced himself first. Xando turned and introduced Druff.</p><p></p><p>The yellow dragon smiled and brought his long neck into the cave to allow himself a closer inspection of the men. This meant that a dozen or so of the villagers fell directly beneath the dragon’s long neck. These villagers bowed completely to the ground, pressing their foreheads against the cold stone.</p><p></p><p>Llywessiar looked closely at the two and then pulled his head back out of the cave. <span style="color: Yellow">“Ischarus has told me about both of you. I find you to be a good selection if you are so willing. As I said, you will all need training to live in this world. I offer you the opportunity to become my children. You will have me as your dragon father and your people will be grafted into my own. My people will teach you about freedom and about worship. Your people will teach my people about life in Quehalost. I will provide what you need to live and your people will prosper under my protection. Is this favorable to you?”</span></p><p></p><p>The villagers who were still on their knees all bowed at once as if controlled by a single mind. Each of them reached back into their tradition of showing acceptance to their own red dragon father by bowing in submission. It was an automatic response for all except Druff and Xando who were no longer kneeling. </p><p></p><p>Instead, each of these two men stood proud. Xando looked directly at the gold dragon and smiled. <span style="color: Lime">“My people accept your offer. My people are your people. Your people are my people.”</span></p><p></p><p>Druff called out once more to the people. <span style="color: Lime">“On your feet, Drakontai! Greet your new dragon father with a cheer!”</span></p><p></p><p>The villagers rose in unison and cheered. Yet Llywessiar could see that there was one among the villagers who was not cheering as fervently as the rest. The dragon caught this one’s eye and spoke loudly, quieting the villagers and allowing them to return to their knees. <span style="color: Yellow">“Child, why do you look sad?”</span></p><p></p><p>All of the villagers, including Druuf and Xando, returned to their knees. From her knees Tierna replied to the gold dragon. <span style="color: Lime">“I am my old dragon father’s Provenience. What is to become of me?”</span></p><p></p><p>Llywessiar looked lovingly to Tierna. His draconic eyes filled with compassion and he spoke softly to her. <span style="color: Yellow">“Rise, child, and come to me.”</span></p><p></p><p>Tierna rose without hesitation and stepped toward the gold dragon. Her body was trembling in fear, but she knew that this dragon did not expect to motivate his people through fear. She approached him not knowing what was to come next.</p><p></p><p>Llywessiar smiled and continued to speak softly to her. <span style="color: Yellow">“Ischarus tells me that you have children growing within you and that your children are of a dragon heritage. Your children should not come into this world without a dragon father to teach them about their talents. They will need my help to learn how to use the passion they inherit from their true father. So long as you are willing, I will be their dragon father. Furthermore, if you are willing I will introduce you to my own Provenience. She will teach you what it means to share in my powers and guide the people rather than to be used and discarded as would have happened under your own dragon father.”</span></p><p></p><p>Tierna bowed deeply and replied as she bowed. <span style="color: Lime">“I accept you as my new dragon father and the father of my children.”</span> Tears began to stream down her face once she realized that the gold dragon had sensed her need and worked to eliminate her concern. She had come so far and was likely rare in being able to claim Provenience under two different dragons. Her original fear was that the gold dragon would want her children destroyed because of their obvious tie to the red wyrm. But this was not to come to pass. Her children would not only live, but they would live in an environment that was not based on fear. They would be taught how to properly use the gifts of a direct draconic lineage.</p><p></p><p>Sappurapolician looked to the other dragons. <span style="color: Sienna">“These people have come a long way, as have we on this day. We should rest here tonight and leave in the morning. I doubt anything in the land will bother us as we travel if we travel by day.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema was feeling particularly brave as she engaged the large bronze dragon in conversation. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Plus, if we travel by day these people can experience our country and our way of living.”</span></p><p></p><p>Llywessiar smiled at the woman his dragon son had chosen. <span style="color: Yellow">“A valid point indeed, Rhema.”</span> He turned to the other dragons and continued, <span style="color: Yellow">“I was able to receive enough rest earlier in the day. You two return to the mountain perch to sleep and watch from above. I will watch over my people. We’ll leave at first light.”</span></p><p></p><p>The gold dragon also turned to his newly adopted people. <span style="color: Yellow">“You have also come a long way. You will need your rest. Tomorrow we begin a much longer journey than you have come so far. The journey is easier, but it will challenge you in your own right. You should sleep and rest now so that we can make good time in the morning.”</span></p><p></p><p>With the gold dragon’s concluding directions the silver and bronze dragons took to the sky once more and climbed to the skyward perch. The villagers began to sprawl at the tunnel entrance. Night watches were established by Druff, Xando, and their men. Llywessiar aided them by casting magical light upon their weapons as well. </p><p></p><p>For the first time in over a month Rhema, Charis, Ischarus, and Semeion stood together again. They huddled in a tight circle at the edge of the perch overlooking the valley. The intent had been to trade tales. Ischarus had not heard about Semeion’s heroic sacrifice for Tierna’s sake. Nobody had heard Ischarus’ tale about traveling to Barghost to raise the Assembly of Virtuous Dragons. Charis and Rhema needed to tell Ischarus about the struggles and successes in the underground venture over the course of nearly a month. They begun to tell the tales, but they all discovered that they were much more tired than they had earlier thought. Before long the foursome broke up into pairs.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus and Rhema returned to the tunnel first, looking for a place to unroll their blankets. Ischarus spoke softly, <span style="color: LightBlue">“I couldn’t help but think of you the whole time I was away. I kept praying that you would be safe from the red wyrm. I hoped that your numbers would be sufficient to overcome the gnolls or kobolds that dwell in the deep. I’ll sleep better tonight knowing you are beside me now.”</span></p><p></p><p>That sentiment was all that Rhema needed to here. She felt exactly the same as she lay upon her blanket. She turned into Ischarus so that her head was resting upon his shoulder and his arm was around her. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“I know what you mean. Tonight will be the best sleep I’ve had for a month.”</span></p><p></p><p>A strange smile passed over her face as she looked up to Ischarus. Ischarus saw the smile and couldn’t help reflecting it back at her. <span style="color: LightBlue">“What’s that look for?”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled even broader. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Not the way we planned it, sir. But, another job well done! It was another successful venture into Quehalost for the purpose of fighting against evil.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ischarus hugged her tightly with the arm that was around her. <span style="color: LightBlue">“And people saved from oppression. All in all, we’ve reason to sleep well tonight.”</span></p><p></p><p>Outside the cave, Semeion and Charis sat on the ledge. Charis had a thoughtful look in her eyes as she glanced over the forest below. It was lit from above by the stars. The long shadows cast by the tops of the trees were hypnotic as a light wind swayed the trees back and forth. She went several minutes without saying a word.</p><p></p><p>Semeion embraced her in a tight hug from behind, wrapping both of his arms around her as he sat behind her. <span style="color: Plum">“You ever wonder what might’ve happened if you and Tierna had switched places?”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis chuckled at the thought. <span style="color: Orange">“In a way, that’s not too far from what I was thinking. My people have found a home, Semeion. My people are safe.”</span></p><p></p><p>Semeion smiled at the thought. <span style="color: Plum">“Safer than we’ll be most of our lives, that’s for sure! Do you plan to return with them and your new dragon father to Barghost?”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis smiled. It was a bittersweet moment for her. <span style="color: Orange">“No. I can’t leave the three of you to bungle your way through Quehalost again! My people will be in good hands. I’m sure to some level I’ll be adopted into Llywessiar’s clan as well. But I could never leave the three of you. I could never leave you, Semeion. From the day you gave my parched throat some water you have taught me about compassion.”</span></p><p></p><p>Semeion pulled Charis even closer into his body. He leaned his forehead against the back of her head and smiled, although he knew she couldn’t see the smile. <span style="color: Plum">“Well then, I suppose there is only one more thing that needs clarified. Your people have found a new home. Tierna will have a new dragon father to help bring her draconic bred children into the world. So that leaves you.”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis looked back out across the forest. A slight tear came to her eyes as she realized how well life had worked out for her fellow Drakontai. Semeion continued speaking, not knowing of the presence of the tear. <span style="color: Plum">“You will be my Provenience, then.”</span> Semeion had clearly emphasized the word “my.”</p><p></p><p>Charis leaned back into the young mage. Another tear came to her eyes and she decided not to fight it. This tear represented that just like her own people her life had turned out better than she could have hoped. Considering that she realized her destiny was to be bred to a dragon until she could conceive no longer and then be consumed, she had come far in defeating that destiny. She had surmounted so much evil intent in the world which had been directed at her. She had witnessed the destruction of a force designed to hurt the lives of those who dwelled upon the earth. Her life had become a living testimony of bitterness overcome.</p><p></p><p style="text-align: center">THE END</p><p></p><p>[Sblock=Color-Free Speech Section]</p><p>Ischarus and Tierna made quick introductions since they had not met prior to seeing each other here for the first time. The party quickly decided that Ischarus and Rhema should lead. Ischarus graciously allowed Tierna to continue to guide Elistra so that Tierna could stay at the front among the rest of the party. With both Ischarus and Rhema having weapons that radiated light the tunnel ahead seemed much less bothersome.</p><p></p><p>It was a grueling ten more hours of walking before the people finally reached the edge of the mountains. Ischarus and Rhema guided them masterfully and there was little incident except for the occasional spider being caught of guard and scurrying away before the main column of villagers could get to it. As they approached the tunnel entrance, Ischarus and Rhema could both see that it was night outside. None of the dragons could be seen from so far within the tunnel.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus easily jumped back into the leadership role that he had given over to Rhema almost a month ago. “Charis, tell the people to wait here. Like I said before, I didn’t actually see the end of the battle and I don’t see any dragons waiting for us. If the villagers stop here they should still be out of range from the red wyrm’s devastating breath.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema turned to say something to Ischarus but thought better of it. She simply give Shauvry’s reigns to Tierna for the time being. As Ischarus stepped forward, Rhema joined him. Ischarus turned to chastise Rhema but this time he knew better as well. There was no use arguing with her. She had just regained him earlier in the day; she wasn’t about to risk losing him again so soon.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus motioned for her to stay behind him and she accepted the invitation graciously. Regardless of whether she was a dungeon expert or not she knew better than to take a place on the front line, especially if there was one as capable of filling the role as Ischarus was. Just before Ischarus could see the end of the tunnel within the radius of the illumination coming from his sword the magic within the sword winked out. Rhema’s weapon still glowed as brightly as ever.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus held out his hand and stopped as soon as his sword lost its magical effect. He stepped gingerly towards the end of the tunnel knowing full well that either the magic ran out or something was aware of his presence and had cancelled the magical effect. Considering the light had glowed for over half a day, Ischarus wasn’t sure the magic hadn’t simply chosen a poor time to end.</p><p></p><p>Once Ischarus had gotten close enough to the tunnel entrance to see outside by the starlight he turned and motioned for Rhema to sheath her own weapon and follow him. She eagerly accepted and crept closer to the end of the tunnel. Once they were together again Ischarus began slowly moving forward.</p><p></p><p>As they approached five feet from the end of the tunnel a booming voice echoed down the length of the tunnel even to where the villagers had been halted. “About time you figure out how to get through the tunnels!” The deep draconic voice transitioned from speech to laughter.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus jumped at the sound of the voice, but smiled immediately afterward. Rhema likewise jumped and drew her sword, bathing the tunnel in light. Her mind eventually caught up with her actions and she paused for a moment before speaking. “That voice! I know that voice. That was the voice that spoke to me in the tunnel!”</p><p></p><p>Before Ischarus could respond, the draconic voice bellowed out again. “Well, child? Are you going to introduce me to the one you have brought to meet me or not? As you know, we have already spoken. But I would like to make her acquaintance more officially.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema turned to Ischarus with surprise. Ischarus smiled and extended out his hand towards Rhema. “Come, there’s someone I’d like you to meet.”</p><p></p><p>As the dragon’s voice echoed throughout the tunnel, many of the villagers began to panic. Thankfully Druff and Xando were prepared in the rear and Semeion and Charis had the front flank. As Ausaphaborishan’s voice boomed and echoed throughout the chamber and was followed by the deep draconic laughter, several of the villagers began to yell in confusion.</p><p></p><p>Druff and Xando were at the back and unable to make out the dragon’s comments completely on account of the echo. As the people began to panic, both Xando and Druff reassured them. “We are still deep enough underground to not need to fear the mighty dragon breath! Hold your ground!</p><p></p><p>Semeion and Charis were close enough to hear the dragon’s speech in addition to being able to see the body language of Ischarus and Rhema. They quickly determined that it was indeed Ischarus’ dragon father and sent the word back through the crowd. Semeion turned and shouted to those closest to him. “All is well!”</p><p></p><p>Charis continued where Semeion had stopped. “That is the dragon father we seek! The truth of your freedom is verified!” Slowly the immediate panic of the vilalgers turned into elation. The crowd of villagers swelled towards Semeion and Charis as the message of their freedom was received further back into the crowd.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus and Rhema had but a short time to meet with Ausaphaborishan while the villagers were being brought under control. Ischarus boldly stepped out of the tunnel with Rhema in tow. He had clasped her hand tightly and beckoned her to follow with his eyes. She followed eagerly. She was ready to meet his dragon father for the first time.</p><p></p><p>As the pair left the tunnel to stand on the flat rock platform under the stars, Ausaphaborishan spoke to them. This time his voice was much softer so that only the pair could hear him. “Forgive my game that I played with you. I could hear you coming for nearly a mile and I could feel the ground shaking even before that. I ducked out of sight so that you would approach slowly. At just the right time I caused the magic of your sword to cease, although I did not realize that your friend’s weapon was also enchanted. I hoped to surprise you!”</p><p></p><p>Ischarus smiled and bowed deeply as his dragon father proudly told the tale of the planned deception. “Indeed you did, dragon father. Indeed you did. I believe you also surprised Rhema, my companion here.” He turned to face Rhema and continued speaking. “Rhema, I would like to introduce you to Ausaphaborishan, my dragon father.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema was caught speechless. She had never expected to be face to face with a dragon on such good terms. Her initial instinct was to extend out her hand in greeting, but the dragon’s deep laughter at her action brought her to the realization of just how silly the gesture was. Here was a creature that dwarfed her in size and did not even have hands.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus smiled at Rhema’s gesture. He politely corrected her in a soft tone. “Dragons do not shake hands, Rhema. The proper greeting is a bow.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema bowed deeply as if on command. The silver wyrm responded with a similar deep bow of his head and neck. Before Rhema could stand upright again the dragon also raised his front right clawed foot. He softly brought the foot up to Rhema’s head in order to tussle her hair. As he did so, he continued to laugh. “Do not fear, little one. Many make the same mistake upon meeting dragons of all sorts. But I can see why Ischarus has interest in you. You have a zest for life and a strong desire to please.”</p><p></p><p>The silver dragon paused to allow Rhema to reply, but her reply was cut short by a loud commotion in the tunnels. Apparently this was all the time that Ischarus and Rhema would have with Ischarus’ dragon father for the moment. The villagers had been convinced of their freedom by Semeion and Charis and they surged forward to meet the dragon that had defeated their own dragon father. As the villagers approached where the dragon stood, they instinctively stopped and bowed in worship. One by one their knees hit the ground and their heads bowed low.</p><p></p><p>Ausaphaborishan laughed comfortingly, as if he were an amused parent. “Ischarus, tell them to rise. Tell them that you do not worship us like gods. Tell them that we live among one another in peace, trading protection and wisdom for companionship.”</p><p></p><p>Ischarus turned, but he could see for himself by the expressions of the villagers that they had already heard. Each and every one of the red wyrm’s Drakontai had a shocked look upon their face. This was especially true of Tierna. Ischarus could tell that he need not relay any message to these people.</p><p></p><p>Ausaphaborishan continued his speech. “People of Quehalost, I welcome you to the free lands of Tongra. But it is not I who should welcome you. Stay here for one minute as I leave. I caution you that when I return you will feel a true urge to run and hide, for I shall return with two more dragons. The one who makes me look small will address you properly.”</p><p></p><p>Without waiting for a response, Ausaphaborishan unfurled his great wings as leapt off the platform of rock. He circled once before turning toward the mountain face and beating his wings hard to surge upwards into the sky. Llywessiar and Sappurapolician had both taken up a position higher in the mountain to rest, heal, and perhaps even nap while Ausaphaborishan guarded the entrance to the underground tunnel. As the silver wyrm climbed to the proper height he could see that the other members of his flight were fast asleep. The silver wyrm smiled and landed solidly beside each of the other dragons.</p><p></p><p>Both of the dragons jerked awake and rose to their feet as quickly as possible. As they jerked awake, Ausaphaborishan leapt once more into the air and circled above them. The silver wyrm addressed his flight leader as he circled. “Llywessiar, the people have come and await your address. I have warned them that three dragons will be returning, so they should hopefully not spook so easily.”</p><p></p><p>The gold dragon smiled. “How did they greet you? Were they timid, aggressive, or indifferent?”</p><p></p><p>Ausaphaborishan merely laughed. “They bowed in worship.”</p><p></p><p>Sappurapolician laughed as well. “Did you honestly expect anything less from the Drakontai of a red wyrm? The have no doubt had obedience drilled into their heads from the day that they were conceived!”</p><p></p><p>Llywessiar replied, “Yes, indeed. In that case they will need a gentle hand guiding them.”</p><p></p><p>Llywessiar and Sappurapolician joined Ausaphaborishan and took to the sky. The trio descended down to the rock platform where the villagers awaited them. All of the villagers had to return into the tunnels so that there would be room upon the platform for all three dragons. Even with the villagers pressed back into the tunnel it was a tight squeeze. Of course, the villagers had no trouble backing into the tunnel. It was their natural instinct to want to flee out of the way of the gold dragon especially.</p><p></p><p>In spite of the terror, the villagers were awed by the trio of draconic beings. The same could be said of Rhema, Ischarus, Charis, and Semeion. This was as close as any of the people gathered had come to this many dragons at the same time. It was simply amazing to watch the trio descend in great circular passes from the higher mountain peak onto the rock platform outside the tunnel. </p><p></p><p>The dragons landed with Llywessiar in the center. He was flanked by Ausaphaborishan to his left and Sappurapolician to his right. It was clear that this would be an official meeting between Llywessiar and the villagers.</p><p></p><p>Llywessiar spoke confidently before the people. “Freed people of Quehalost, your tyranny is over.” The dragon paused, expecting some kind of cheer. However, the gold dragon did not receive a cheer from the villagers. In truth, most of the villagers strongly desired to cheer but their fear of the dragon was too much to overcome. They simply stared back at the large gold dragon while in their worshipful kneeling position. </p><p></p><p>Llywessiar continued his speech once he realized the people were unable to overcome their fear. “You are about to taste freedom for the first time. No, actually, you have been living in freedom for almost a month now. But it has not been complete freedom. You had the freedom to work and play when you wanted but you still lived in fear that your dragon father would find you. I saw the destruction of your dragon father. He was given the option of fleeing with his life but in his arrogance he forced us to slay him. In the end, for you it is better to have that conclusion. You need not fear him any longer!”</p><p></p><p>The gold wyrm paused once more to allow cheering; but when it was obvious that the people could still not overcome their fear he quickly continued. “Yet you will need training to live in this world. In many respects it is easier to live in bondage. Your daily tasks are told to you. You are told what to think and what to believe. You are told what to do and how to worship. None of this is true any longer. With freedom comes the ability to make up your own mind. You will need training to live in this world. Who is the leader among you?”</p><p></p><p>The villagers looked around at one another. There was nobody who rose immediately and slowly all eyes fell onto Druff and Xando. They were kneeling beside one another and both could feel the pressure from the rest of the villagers. Llywessiar could also see that these two were the ones to whom the others looked.</p><p></p><p>The gold dragon spoke directly to Druff and Xando. “Rise, children, and tell me your names.”</p><p></p><p>Druff and Xando slowly raised themselves up in unison, standing above the rest of the kneeling villagers. Druff turned to Xando, who introduced himself first. Xando turned and introduced Druff.</p><p></p><p>The yellow dragon smiled and brought his long neck into the cave to allow himself a closer inspection of the men. This meant that a dozen or so of the villagers fell directly beneath the dragon’s long neck. These villagers bowed completely to the ground, pressing their foreheads against the cold stone.</p><p></p><p>Llywessiar looked closely at the two and then pulled his head back out of the cave. “Ischarus has told me about both of you. I find you to be a good selection if you are so willing. As I said, you will all need training to live in this world. I offer you the opportunity to become my children. You will have me as your dragon father and your people will be grafted into my own. My people will teach you about freedom and about worship. Your people will teach my people about life in Quehalost. I will provide what you need to live and your people will prosper under my protection. Is this favorable to you?”</p><p></p><p>The villagers who were still on their knees all bowed at once as if controlled by a single mind. Each of them reached back into their tradition of showing acceptance to their own red dragon father by bowing in submission. It was an automatic response for all except Druff and Xando who were no longer kneeling. </p><p></p><p>Instead, each of these two men stood proud. Xando looked directly at the gold dragon and smiled. “My people accept your offer. My people are your people. Your people are my people.”</p><p></p><p>Druff called out once more to the people. “On your feet, Drakontai! Greet your new dragon father with a cheer!”</p><p></p><p>The villagers rose in unison and cheered. Yet Llywessiar could see that there was one among the villagers who was not cheering as fervently as the rest. The dragon caught this one’s eye and spoke loudly, quieting the villagers and allowing them to return to their knees. “Child, why do you look sad?”</p><p></p><p>All of the villagers, including Druuf and Xando, returned to their knees. From her knees Tierna replied to the gold dragon. “I am my old dragon father’s Provenience. What is to become of me?”</p><p></p><p>Llywessiar looked lovingly to Tierna. His draconic eyes filled with compassion and he spoke softly to her. “Rise, child, and come to me.”</p><p></p><p>Tierna rose without hesitation and stepped toward the gold dragon. Her body was trembling in fear, but she knew that this dragon did not expect to motivate his people through fear. She approached him not knowing what was to come next.</p><p></p><p>Llywessiar smiled and continued to speak softly to her. “Ischarus tells me that you have children growing within you and that your children are of a dragon heritage. Your children should not come into this world without a dragon father to teach them about their talents. They will need my help to learn how to use the passion they inherit from their true father. So long as you are willing, I will be their dragon father. Furthermore, if you are willing I will introduce you to my own Provenience. She will teach you what it means to share in my powers and guide the people rather than to be used and discarded as would have happened under your own dragon father.”</p><p></p><p>Tierna bowed deeply and replied as she bowed. “I accept you as my new dragon father and the father of my children.” Tears began to stream down her face once she realized that the gold dragon had sensed her need and worked to eliminate her concern. She had come so far and was likely rare in being able to claim Provenience under two different dragons. Her original fear was that the gold dragon would want her children destroyed because of their obvious tie to the red wyrm. But this was not to come to pass. Her children would not only live, but they would live in an environment that was not based on fear. They would be taught how to properly use the gifts of a direct draconic lineage.</p><p></p><p>Sappurapolician looked to the other dragons. “These people have come a long way, as have we on this day. We should rest here tonight and leave in the morning. I doubt anything in the land will bother us as we travel if we travel by day.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema was feeling particularly brave as she engaged the large bronze dragon in conversation. “Plus, if we travel by day these people can experience our country and our way of living.”</p><p></p><p>Llywessiar smiled at the woman his dragon son had chosen. “A valid point indeed, Rhema.” He turned to the other dragons and continued, “I was able to receive enough rest earlier in the day. You two return to the mountain perch to sleep and watch from above. I will watch over my people. We’ll leave at first light.”</p><p></p><p>The gold dragon also turned to his newly adopted people. “You have also come a long way. You will need your rest. Tomorrow we begin a much longer journey than you have come so far. The journey is easier, but it will challenge you in your own right. You should sleep and rest now so that we can make good time in the morning.”</p><p></p><p>With the gold dragon’s concluding directions the silver and bronze dragons took to the sky once more and climbed to the skyward perch. The villagers began to sprawl at the tunnel entrance. Night watches were established by Druff, Xando, and their men. Llywessiar aided them by casting magical light upon their weapons as well. </p><p></p><p>For the first time in over a month Rhema, Charis, Ischarus, and Semeion stood together again. They huddled in a tight circle at the edge of the perch overlooking the valley. The intent had been to trade tales. Ischarus had not heard about Semeion’s heroic sacrifice for Tierna’s sake. Nobody had heard Ischarus’ tale about traveling to Barghost to raise the Assembly of Virtuous Dragons. Charis and Rhema needed to tell Ischarus about the struggles and successes in the underground venture over the course of nearly a month. They begun to tell the tales, but they all discovered that they were much more tired than they had earlier thought. Before long the foursome broke up into pairs.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus and Rhema returned to the tunnel first, looking for a place to unroll their blankets. Ischarus spoke softly, “I couldn’t help but think of you the whole time I was away. I kept praying that you would be safe from the red wyrm. I hoped that your numbers would be sufficient to overcome the gnolls or kobolds that dwell in the deep. I’ll sleep better tonight knowing you are beside me now.”</p><p></p><p>That sentiment was all that Rhema needed to here. She felt exactly the same as she lay upon her blanket. She turned into Ischarus so that her head was resting upon his shoulder and his arm was around her. “I know what you mean. Tonight will be the best sleep I’ve had for a month.”</p><p></p><p>A strange smile passed over her face as she looked up to Ischarus. Ischarus saw the smile and couldn’t help reflecting it back at her. “What’s that look for?”</p><p></p><p>Rhema smiled even broader. “Not the way we planned it, sir. But, another job well done! It was another successful venture into Quehalost for the purpose of fighting against evil.”</p><p></p><p>Ischarus hugged her tightly with the arm that was around her. “And people saved from oppression. All in all, we’ve reason to sleep well tonight.”</p><p></p><p>Outside the cave, Semeion and Charis sat on the ledge. Charis had a thoughtful look in her eyes as she glanced over the forest below. It was lit from above by the stars. The long shadows cast by the tops of the trees were hypnotic as a light wind swayed the trees back and forth. She went several minutes without saying a word.</p><p></p><p>Semeion embraced her in a tight hug from behind, wrapping both of his arms around her as he sat behind her. “You ever wonder what might’ve happened if you and Tierna had switched places?”</p><p></p><p>Charis chuckled at the thought. “In a way, that’s not too far from what I was thinking. My people have found a home, Semeion. My people are safe.”</p><p></p><p>Semeion smiled at the thought. “Safer than we’ll be most of our lives, that’s for sure! Do you plan to return with them and your new dragon father to Barghost?”</p><p></p><p>Charis smiled. It was a bittersweet moment for her. “No. I can’t leave the three of you to bungle your way through Quehalost again! My people will be in good hands. I’m sure to some level I’ll be adopted into Llywessiar’s clan as well. But I could never leave the three of you. I could never leave you, Semeion. From the day you gave my parched throat some water you have taught me about compassion.”</p><p></p><p>Semeion pulled Charis even closer into his body. He leaned his forehead against the back of her head and smiled, although he knew she couldn’t see the smile. “Well then, I suppose there is only one more thing that needs clarified. Your people have found a new home. Tierna will have a new dragon father to help bring her draconic bred children into the world. So that leaves you.”</p><p></p><p>Charis looked back out across the forest. A slight tear came to her eyes as she realized how well life had worked out for her fellow Drakontai. Semeion continued speaking, not knowing of the presence of the tear. “You will be my Provenience, then.” Semeion had clearly emphasized the word “my.”</p><p></p><p>Charis leaned back into the young mage. Another tear came to her eyes and she decided not to fight it. This tear represented that just like her own people her life had turned out better than she could have hoped. Considering that she realized her destiny was to be bred to a dragon until she could conceive no longer and then be consumed, she had come far in defeating that destiny. She had surmounted so much evil intent in the world which had been directed at her. She had witnessed the destruction of a force designed to hurt the lives of those who dwelled upon the earth. Her life had become a living testimony of bitterness overcome.</p><p></p><p></p><p style="text-align: center">THE END</p><p>[/Sblock]</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Nonlethal Force, post: 3217184, member: 35788"] Ischarus and Tierna made quick introductions since they had not met prior to seeing each other here for the first time. The party quickly decided that Ischarus and Rhema should lead. Ischarus graciously allowed Tierna to continue to guide Elistra so that Tierna could stay at the front among the rest of the party. With both Ischarus and Rhema having weapons that radiated light the tunnel ahead seemed much less bothersome. It was a grueling ten more hours of walking before the people finally reached the edge of the mountains. Ischarus and Rhema guided them masterfully and there was little incident except for the occasional spider being caught of guard and scurrying away before the main column of villagers could get to it. As they approached the tunnel entrance, Ischarus and Rhema could both see that it was night outside. None of the dragons could be seen from so far within the tunnel. Ischarus easily jumped back into the leadership role that he had given over to Rhema almost a month ago. [Color=LightBlue]“Charis, tell the people to wait here. Like I said before, I didn’t actually see the end of the battle and I don’t see any dragons waiting for us. If the villagers stop here they should still be out of range from the red wyrm’s devastating breath.”[/Color] Rhema turned to say something to Ischarus but thought better of it. She simply give Shauvry’s reigns to Tierna for the time being. As Ischarus stepped forward, Rhema joined him. Ischarus turned to chastise Rhema but this time he knew better as well. There was no use arguing with her. She had just regained him earlier in the day; she wasn’t about to risk losing him again so soon. Ischarus motioned for her to stay behind him and she accepted the invitation graciously. Regardless of whether she was a dungeon expert or not she knew better than to take a place on the front line, especially if there was one as capable of filling the role as Ischarus was. Just before Ischarus could see the end of the tunnel within the radius of the illumination coming from his sword the magic within the sword winked out. Rhema’s weapon still glowed as brightly as ever. Ischarus held out his hand and stopped as soon as his sword lost its magical effect. He stepped gingerly towards the end of the tunnel knowing full well that either the magic ran out or something was aware of his presence and had cancelled the magical effect. Considering the light had glowed for over half a day, Ischarus wasn’t sure the magic hadn’t simply chosen a poor time to end. Once Ischarus had gotten close enough to the tunnel entrance to see outside by the starlight he turned and motioned for Rhema to sheath her own weapon and follow him. She eagerly accepted and crept closer to the end of the tunnel. Once they were together again Ischarus began slowly moving forward. As they approached five feet from the end of the tunnel a booming voice echoed down the length of the tunnel even to where the villagers had been halted. [Color=SlateGray]“About time you figure out how to get through the tunnels!”[/Color] The deep draconic voice transitioned from speech to laughter. Ischarus jumped at the sound of the voice, but smiled immediately afterward. Rhema likewise jumped and drew her sword, bathing the tunnel in light. Her mind eventually caught up with her actions and she paused for a moment before speaking. [Color=PaleGreen]“That voice! I know that voice. That was the voice that spoke to me in the tunnel!”[/Color] Before Ischarus could respond, the draconic voice bellowed out again. [Color=SlateGray]“Well, child? Are you going to introduce me to the one you have brought to meet me or not? As you know, we have already spoken. But I would like to make her acquaintance more officially.”[/Color] Rhema turned to Ischarus with surprise. Ischarus smiled and extended out his hand towards Rhema. [Color=LightBlue]“Come, there’s someone I’d like you to meet.”[/Color] As the dragon’s voice echoed throughout the tunnel, many of the villagers began to panic. Thankfully Druff and Xando were prepared in the rear and Semeion and Charis had the front flank. As Ausaphaborishan’s voice boomed and echoed throughout the chamber and was followed by the deep draconic laughter, several of the villagers began to yell in confusion. Druff and Xando were at the back and unable to make out the dragon’s comments completely on account of the echo. As the people began to panic, both Xando and Druff reassured them. [Color=Lime]“We are still deep enough underground to not need to fear the mighty dragon breath! Hold your ground![/Color] Semeion and Charis were close enough to hear the dragon’s speech in addition to being able to see the body language of Ischarus and Rhema. They quickly determined that it was indeed Ischarus’ dragon father and sent the word back through the crowd. Semeion turned and shouted to those closest to him. [Color=Plum]“All is well!”[/Color] Charis continued where Semeion had stopped. [Color=Orange]“That is the dragon father we seek! The truth of your freedom is verified!”[/Color] Slowly the immediate panic of the vilalgers turned into elation. The crowd of villagers swelled towards Semeion and Charis as the message of their freedom was received further back into the crowd. Ischarus and Rhema had but a short time to meet with Ausaphaborishan while the villagers were being brought under control. Ischarus boldly stepped out of the tunnel with Rhema in tow. He had clasped her hand tightly and beckoned her to follow with his eyes. She followed eagerly. She was ready to meet his dragon father for the first time. As the pair left the tunnel to stand on the flat rock platform under the stars, Ausaphaborishan spoke to them. This time his voice was much softer so that only the pair could hear him. [Color=SlateGray]“Forgive my game that I played with you. I could hear you coming for nearly a mile and I could feel the ground shaking even before that. I ducked out of sight so that you would approach slowly. At just the right time I caused the magic of your sword to cease, although I did not realize that your friend’s weapon was also enchanted. I hoped to surprise you!”[/Color] Ischarus smiled and bowed deeply as his dragon father proudly told the tale of the planned deception. [Color=LightBlue]“Indeed you did, dragon father. Indeed you did. I believe you also surprised Rhema, my companion here.”[/Color] He turned to face Rhema and continued speaking. [Color=LightBlue]“Rhema, I would like to introduce you to Ausaphaborishan, my dragon father.”[/Color] Rhema was caught speechless. She had never expected to be face to face with a dragon on such good terms. Her initial instinct was to extend out her hand in greeting, but the dragon’s deep laughter at her action brought her to the realization of just how silly the gesture was. Here was a creature that dwarfed her in size and did not even have hands. Ischarus smiled at Rhema’s gesture. He politely corrected her in a soft tone. [Color=LightBlue]“Dragons do not shake hands, Rhema. The proper greeting is a bow.”[/Color] Rhema bowed deeply as if on command. The silver wyrm responded with a similar deep bow of his head and neck. Before Rhema could stand upright again the dragon also raised his front right clawed foot. He softly brought the foot up to Rhema’s head in order to tussle her hair. As he did so, he continued to laugh. [Color=SlateGray]“Do not fear, little one. Many make the same mistake upon meeting dragons of all sorts. But I can see why Ischarus has interest in you. You have a zest for life and a strong desire to please.”[/Color] The silver dragon paused to allow Rhema to reply, but her reply was cut short by a loud commotion in the tunnels. Apparently this was all the time that Ischarus and Rhema would have with Ischarus’ dragon father for the moment. The villagers had been convinced of their freedom by Semeion and Charis and they surged forward to meet the dragon that had defeated their own dragon father. As the villagers approached where the dragon stood, they instinctively stopped and bowed in worship. One by one their knees hit the ground and their heads bowed low. Ausaphaborishan laughed comfortingly, as if he were an amused parent. [Color=SlateGray]“Ischarus, tell them to rise. Tell them that you do not worship us like gods. Tell them that we live among one another in peace, trading protection and wisdom for companionship.”[/Color] Ischarus turned, but he could see for himself by the expressions of the villagers that they had already heard. Each and every one of the red wyrm’s Drakontai had a shocked look upon their face. This was especially true of Tierna. Ischarus could tell that he need not relay any message to these people. Ausaphaborishan continued his speech. [Color=SlateGray]“People of Quehalost, I welcome you to the free lands of Tongra. But it is not I who should welcome you. Stay here for one minute as I leave. I caution you that when I return you will feel a true urge to run and hide, for I shall return with two more dragons. The one who makes me look small will address you properly.”[/Color] Without waiting for a response, Ausaphaborishan unfurled his great wings as leapt off the platform of rock. He circled once before turning toward the mountain face and beating his wings hard to surge upwards into the sky. Llywessiar and Sappurapolician had both taken up a position higher in the mountain to rest, heal, and perhaps even nap while Ausaphaborishan guarded the entrance to the underground tunnel. As the silver wyrm climbed to the proper height he could see that the other members of his flight were fast asleep. The silver wyrm smiled and landed solidly beside each of the other dragons. Both of the dragons jerked awake and rose to their feet as quickly as possible. As they jerked awake, Ausaphaborishan leapt once more into the air and circled above them. The silver wyrm addressed his flight leader as he circled. [Color=SlateGray]“Llywessiar, the people have come and await your address. I have warned them that three dragons will be returning, so they should hopefully not spook so easily.”[/Color] The gold dragon smiled. [Color=Yellow]“How did they greet you? Were they timid, aggressive, or indifferent?”[/Color] Ausaphaborishan merely laughed. [Color=SlateGray]“They bowed in worship.”[/Color] Sappurapolician laughed as well. [Color=Sienna]“Did you honestly expect anything less from the Drakontai of a red wyrm? The have no doubt had obedience drilled into their heads from the day that they were conceived!”[/Color] Llywessiar replied, [Color=Yellow]“Yes, indeed. In that case they will need a gentle hand guiding them.”[/Color] Llywessiar and Sappurapolician joined Ausaphaborishan and took to the sky. The trio descended down to the rock platform where the villagers awaited them. All of the villagers had to return into the tunnels so that there would be room upon the platform for all three dragons. Even with the villagers pressed back into the tunnel it was a tight squeeze. Of course, the villagers had no trouble backing into the tunnel. It was their natural instinct to want to flee out of the way of the gold dragon especially. In spite of the terror, the villagers were awed by the trio of draconic beings. The same could be said of Rhema, Ischarus, Charis, and Semeion. This was as close as any of the people gathered had come to this many dragons at the same time. It was simply amazing to watch the trio descend in great circular passes from the higher mountain peak onto the rock platform outside the tunnel. The dragons landed with Llywessiar in the center. He was flanked by Ausaphaborishan to his left and Sappurapolician to his right. It was clear that this would be an official meeting between Llywessiar and the villagers. Llywessiar spoke confidently before the people. [Color=Yellow]“Freed people of Quehalost, your tyranny is over.”[/Color] The dragon paused, expecting some kind of cheer. However, the gold dragon did not receive a cheer from the villagers. In truth, most of the villagers strongly desired to cheer but their fear of the dragon was too much to overcome. They simply stared back at the large gold dragon while in their worshipful kneeling position. Llywessiar continued his speech once he realized the people were unable to overcome their fear. [Color=Yellow]“You are about to taste freedom for the first time. No, actually, you have been living in freedom for almost a month now. But it has not been complete freedom. You had the freedom to work and play when you wanted but you still lived in fear that your dragon father would find you. I saw the destruction of your dragon father. He was given the option of fleeing with his life but in his arrogance he forced us to slay him. In the end, for you it is better to have that conclusion. You need not fear him any longer!”[/Color] The gold wyrm paused once more to allow cheering; but when it was obvious that the people could still not overcome their fear he quickly continued. [Color=Yellow]“Yet you will need training to live in this world. In many respects it is easier to live in bondage. Your daily tasks are told to you. You are told what to think and what to believe. You are told what to do and how to worship. None of this is true any longer. With freedom comes the ability to make up your own mind. You will need training to live in this world. Who is the leader among you?”[/Color] The villagers looked around at one another. There was nobody who rose immediately and slowly all eyes fell onto Druff and Xando. They were kneeling beside one another and both could feel the pressure from the rest of the villagers. Llywessiar could also see that these two were the ones to whom the others looked. The gold dragon spoke directly to Druff and Xando. [Color=Yellow]“Rise, children, and tell me your names.”[/Color] Druff and Xando slowly raised themselves up in unison, standing above the rest of the kneeling villagers. Druff turned to Xando, who introduced himself first. Xando turned and introduced Druff. The yellow dragon smiled and brought his long neck into the cave to allow himself a closer inspection of the men. This meant that a dozen or so of the villagers fell directly beneath the dragon’s long neck. These villagers bowed completely to the ground, pressing their foreheads against the cold stone. Llywessiar looked closely at the two and then pulled his head back out of the cave. [Color=Yellow]“Ischarus has told me about both of you. I find you to be a good selection if you are so willing. As I said, you will all need training to live in this world. I offer you the opportunity to become my children. You will have me as your dragon father and your people will be grafted into my own. My people will teach you about freedom and about worship. Your people will teach my people about life in Quehalost. I will provide what you need to live and your people will prosper under my protection. Is this favorable to you?”[/Color] The villagers who were still on their knees all bowed at once as if controlled by a single mind. Each of them reached back into their tradition of showing acceptance to their own red dragon father by bowing in submission. It was an automatic response for all except Druff and Xando who were no longer kneeling. Instead, each of these two men stood proud. Xando looked directly at the gold dragon and smiled. [Color=Lime]“My people accept your offer. My people are your people. Your people are my people.”[/Color] Druff called out once more to the people. [Color=Lime]“On your feet, Drakontai! Greet your new dragon father with a cheer!”[/Color] The villagers rose in unison and cheered. Yet Llywessiar could see that there was one among the villagers who was not cheering as fervently as the rest. The dragon caught this one’s eye and spoke loudly, quieting the villagers and allowing them to return to their knees. [Color=Yellow]“Child, why do you look sad?”[/Color] All of the villagers, including Druuf and Xando, returned to their knees. From her knees Tierna replied to the gold dragon. [Color=Lime]“I am my old dragon father’s Provenience. What is to become of me?”[/Color] Llywessiar looked lovingly to Tierna. His draconic eyes filled with compassion and he spoke softly to her. [Color=Yellow]“Rise, child, and come to me.”[/Color] Tierna rose without hesitation and stepped toward the gold dragon. Her body was trembling in fear, but she knew that this dragon did not expect to motivate his people through fear. She approached him not knowing what was to come next. Llywessiar smiled and continued to speak softly to her. [Color=Yellow]“Ischarus tells me that you have children growing within you and that your children are of a dragon heritage. Your children should not come into this world without a dragon father to teach them about their talents. They will need my help to learn how to use the passion they inherit from their true father. So long as you are willing, I will be their dragon father. Furthermore, if you are willing I will introduce you to my own Provenience. She will teach you what it means to share in my powers and guide the people rather than to be used and discarded as would have happened under your own dragon father.”[/Color] Tierna bowed deeply and replied as she bowed. [Color=Lime]“I accept you as my new dragon father and the father of my children.”[/Color] Tears began to stream down her face once she realized that the gold dragon had sensed her need and worked to eliminate her concern. She had come so far and was likely rare in being able to claim Provenience under two different dragons. Her original fear was that the gold dragon would want her children destroyed because of their obvious tie to the red wyrm. But this was not to come to pass. Her children would not only live, but they would live in an environment that was not based on fear. They would be taught how to properly use the gifts of a direct draconic lineage. Sappurapolician looked to the other dragons. [Color=Sienna]“These people have come a long way, as have we on this day. We should rest here tonight and leave in the morning. I doubt anything in the land will bother us as we travel if we travel by day.”[/Color] Rhema was feeling particularly brave as she engaged the large bronze dragon in conversation. [Color=PaleGreen]“Plus, if we travel by day these people can experience our country and our way of living.”[/Color] Llywessiar smiled at the woman his dragon son had chosen. [Color=Yellow]“A valid point indeed, Rhema.”[/Color] He turned to the other dragons and continued, [Color=Yellow]“I was able to receive enough rest earlier in the day. You two return to the mountain perch to sleep and watch from above. I will watch over my people. We’ll leave at first light.”[/Color] The gold dragon also turned to his newly adopted people. [Color=Yellow]“You have also come a long way. You will need your rest. Tomorrow we begin a much longer journey than you have come so far. The journey is easier, but it will challenge you in your own right. You should sleep and rest now so that we can make good time in the morning.”[/Color] With the gold dragon’s concluding directions the silver and bronze dragons took to the sky once more and climbed to the skyward perch. The villagers began to sprawl at the tunnel entrance. Night watches were established by Druff, Xando, and their men. Llywessiar aided them by casting magical light upon their weapons as well. For the first time in over a month Rhema, Charis, Ischarus, and Semeion stood together again. They huddled in a tight circle at the edge of the perch overlooking the valley. The intent had been to trade tales. Ischarus had not heard about Semeion’s heroic sacrifice for Tierna’s sake. Nobody had heard Ischarus’ tale about traveling to Barghost to raise the Assembly of Virtuous Dragons. Charis and Rhema needed to tell Ischarus about the struggles and successes in the underground venture over the course of nearly a month. They begun to tell the tales, but they all discovered that they were much more tired than they had earlier thought. Before long the foursome broke up into pairs. Ischarus and Rhema returned to the tunnel first, looking for a place to unroll their blankets. Ischarus spoke softly, [Color=LightBlue]“I couldn’t help but think of you the whole time I was away. I kept praying that you would be safe from the red wyrm. I hoped that your numbers would be sufficient to overcome the gnolls or kobolds that dwell in the deep. I’ll sleep better tonight knowing you are beside me now.”[/Color] That sentiment was all that Rhema needed to here. She felt exactly the same as she lay upon her blanket. She turned into Ischarus so that her head was resting upon his shoulder and his arm was around her. [Color=PaleGreen]“I know what you mean. Tonight will be the best sleep I’ve had for a month.”[/Color] A strange smile passed over her face as she looked up to Ischarus. Ischarus saw the smile and couldn’t help reflecting it back at her. [Color=LightBlue]“What’s that look for?”[/Color] Rhema smiled even broader. [Color=PaleGreen]“Not the way we planned it, sir. But, another job well done! It was another successful venture into Quehalost for the purpose of fighting against evil.”[/Color] Ischarus hugged her tightly with the arm that was around her. [Color=LightBlue]“And people saved from oppression. All in all, we’ve reason to sleep well tonight.”[/Color] Outside the cave, Semeion and Charis sat on the ledge. Charis had a thoughtful look in her eyes as she glanced over the forest below. It was lit from above by the stars. The long shadows cast by the tops of the trees were hypnotic as a light wind swayed the trees back and forth. She went several minutes without saying a word. Semeion embraced her in a tight hug from behind, wrapping both of his arms around her as he sat behind her. [Color=Plum]“You ever wonder what might’ve happened if you and Tierna had switched places?”[/Color] Charis chuckled at the thought. [Color=Orange]“In a way, that’s not too far from what I was thinking. My people have found a home, Semeion. My people are safe.”[/Color] Semeion smiled at the thought. [Color=Plum]“Safer than we’ll be most of our lives, that’s for sure! Do you plan to return with them and your new dragon father to Barghost?”[/Color] Charis smiled. It was a bittersweet moment for her. [Color=Orange]“No. I can’t leave the three of you to bungle your way through Quehalost again! My people will be in good hands. I’m sure to some level I’ll be adopted into Llywessiar’s clan as well. But I could never leave the three of you. I could never leave you, Semeion. From the day you gave my parched throat some water you have taught me about compassion.”[/Color] Semeion pulled Charis even closer into his body. He leaned his forehead against the back of her head and smiled, although he knew she couldn’t see the smile. [Color=Plum]“Well then, I suppose there is only one more thing that needs clarified. Your people have found a new home. Tierna will have a new dragon father to help bring her draconic bred children into the world. So that leaves you.”[/Color] Charis looked back out across the forest. A slight tear came to her eyes as she realized how well life had worked out for her fellow Drakontai. Semeion continued speaking, not knowing of the presence of the tear. [Color=Plum]“You will be my Provenience, then.”[/Color] Semeion had clearly emphasized the word “my.” Charis leaned back into the young mage. Another tear came to her eyes and she decided not to fight it. This tear represented that just like her own people her life had turned out better than she could have hoped. Considering that she realized her destiny was to be bred to a dragon until she could conceive no longer and then be consumed, she had come far in defeating that destiny. She had surmounted so much evil intent in the world which had been directed at her. She had witnessed the destruction of a force designed to hurt the lives of those who dwelled upon the earth. Her life had become a living testimony of bitterness overcome. [Center]THE END[/Center] [Sblock=Color-Free Speech Section] Ischarus and Tierna made quick introductions since they had not met prior to seeing each other here for the first time. The party quickly decided that Ischarus and Rhema should lead. Ischarus graciously allowed Tierna to continue to guide Elistra so that Tierna could stay at the front among the rest of the party. With both Ischarus and Rhema having weapons that radiated light the tunnel ahead seemed much less bothersome. It was a grueling ten more hours of walking before the people finally reached the edge of the mountains. Ischarus and Rhema guided them masterfully and there was little incident except for the occasional spider being caught of guard and scurrying away before the main column of villagers could get to it. As they approached the tunnel entrance, Ischarus and Rhema could both see that it was night outside. None of the dragons could be seen from so far within the tunnel. Ischarus easily jumped back into the leadership role that he had given over to Rhema almost a month ago. “Charis, tell the people to wait here. Like I said before, I didn’t actually see the end of the battle and I don’t see any dragons waiting for us. If the villagers stop here they should still be out of range from the red wyrm’s devastating breath.” Rhema turned to say something to Ischarus but thought better of it. She simply give Shauvry’s reigns to Tierna for the time being. As Ischarus stepped forward, Rhema joined him. Ischarus turned to chastise Rhema but this time he knew better as well. There was no use arguing with her. She had just regained him earlier in the day; she wasn’t about to risk losing him again so soon. Ischarus motioned for her to stay behind him and she accepted the invitation graciously. Regardless of whether she was a dungeon expert or not she knew better than to take a place on the front line, especially if there was one as capable of filling the role as Ischarus was. Just before Ischarus could see the end of the tunnel within the radius of the illumination coming from his sword the magic within the sword winked out. Rhema’s weapon still glowed as brightly as ever. Ischarus held out his hand and stopped as soon as his sword lost its magical effect. He stepped gingerly towards the end of the tunnel knowing full well that either the magic ran out or something was aware of his presence and had cancelled the magical effect. Considering the light had glowed for over half a day, Ischarus wasn’t sure the magic hadn’t simply chosen a poor time to end. Once Ischarus had gotten close enough to the tunnel entrance to see outside by the starlight he turned and motioned for Rhema to sheath her own weapon and follow him. She eagerly accepted and crept closer to the end of the tunnel. Once they were together again Ischarus began slowly moving forward. As they approached five feet from the end of the tunnel a booming voice echoed down the length of the tunnel even to where the villagers had been halted. “About time you figure out how to get through the tunnels!” The deep draconic voice transitioned from speech to laughter. Ischarus jumped at the sound of the voice, but smiled immediately afterward. Rhema likewise jumped and drew her sword, bathing the tunnel in light. Her mind eventually caught up with her actions and she paused for a moment before speaking. “That voice! I know that voice. That was the voice that spoke to me in the tunnel!” Before Ischarus could respond, the draconic voice bellowed out again. “Well, child? Are you going to introduce me to the one you have brought to meet me or not? As you know, we have already spoken. But I would like to make her acquaintance more officially.” Rhema turned to Ischarus with surprise. Ischarus smiled and extended out his hand towards Rhema. “Come, there’s someone I’d like you to meet.” As the dragon’s voice echoed throughout the tunnel, many of the villagers began to panic. Thankfully Druff and Xando were prepared in the rear and Semeion and Charis had the front flank. As Ausaphaborishan’s voice boomed and echoed throughout the chamber and was followed by the deep draconic laughter, several of the villagers began to yell in confusion. Druff and Xando were at the back and unable to make out the dragon’s comments completely on account of the echo. As the people began to panic, both Xando and Druff reassured them. “We are still deep enough underground to not need to fear the mighty dragon breath! Hold your ground! Semeion and Charis were close enough to hear the dragon’s speech in addition to being able to see the body language of Ischarus and Rhema. They quickly determined that it was indeed Ischarus’ dragon father and sent the word back through the crowd. Semeion turned and shouted to those closest to him. “All is well!” Charis continued where Semeion had stopped. “That is the dragon father we seek! The truth of your freedom is verified!” Slowly the immediate panic of the vilalgers turned into elation. The crowd of villagers swelled towards Semeion and Charis as the message of their freedom was received further back into the crowd. Ischarus and Rhema had but a short time to meet with Ausaphaborishan while the villagers were being brought under control. Ischarus boldly stepped out of the tunnel with Rhema in tow. He had clasped her hand tightly and beckoned her to follow with his eyes. She followed eagerly. She was ready to meet his dragon father for the first time. As the pair left the tunnel to stand on the flat rock platform under the stars, Ausaphaborishan spoke to them. This time his voice was much softer so that only the pair could hear him. “Forgive my game that I played with you. I could hear you coming for nearly a mile and I could feel the ground shaking even before that. I ducked out of sight so that you would approach slowly. At just the right time I caused the magic of your sword to cease, although I did not realize that your friend’s weapon was also enchanted. I hoped to surprise you!” Ischarus smiled and bowed deeply as his dragon father proudly told the tale of the planned deception. “Indeed you did, dragon father. Indeed you did. I believe you also surprised Rhema, my companion here.” He turned to face Rhema and continued speaking. “Rhema, I would like to introduce you to Ausaphaborishan, my dragon father.” Rhema was caught speechless. She had never expected to be face to face with a dragon on such good terms. Her initial instinct was to extend out her hand in greeting, but the dragon’s deep laughter at her action brought her to the realization of just how silly the gesture was. Here was a creature that dwarfed her in size and did not even have hands. Ischarus smiled at Rhema’s gesture. He politely corrected her in a soft tone. “Dragons do not shake hands, Rhema. The proper greeting is a bow.” Rhema bowed deeply as if on command. The silver wyrm responded with a similar deep bow of his head and neck. Before Rhema could stand upright again the dragon also raised his front right clawed foot. He softly brought the foot up to Rhema’s head in order to tussle her hair. As he did so, he continued to laugh. “Do not fear, little one. Many make the same mistake upon meeting dragons of all sorts. But I can see why Ischarus has interest in you. You have a zest for life and a strong desire to please.” The silver dragon paused to allow Rhema to reply, but her reply was cut short by a loud commotion in the tunnels. Apparently this was all the time that Ischarus and Rhema would have with Ischarus’ dragon father for the moment. The villagers had been convinced of their freedom by Semeion and Charis and they surged forward to meet the dragon that had defeated their own dragon father. As the villagers approached where the dragon stood, they instinctively stopped and bowed in worship. One by one their knees hit the ground and their heads bowed low. Ausaphaborishan laughed comfortingly, as if he were an amused parent. “Ischarus, tell them to rise. Tell them that you do not worship us like gods. Tell them that we live among one another in peace, trading protection and wisdom for companionship.” Ischarus turned, but he could see for himself by the expressions of the villagers that they had already heard. Each and every one of the red wyrm’s Drakontai had a shocked look upon their face. This was especially true of Tierna. Ischarus could tell that he need not relay any message to these people. Ausaphaborishan continued his speech. “People of Quehalost, I welcome you to the free lands of Tongra. But it is not I who should welcome you. Stay here for one minute as I leave. I caution you that when I return you will feel a true urge to run and hide, for I shall return with two more dragons. The one who makes me look small will address you properly.” Without waiting for a response, Ausaphaborishan unfurled his great wings as leapt off the platform of rock. He circled once before turning toward the mountain face and beating his wings hard to surge upwards into the sky. Llywessiar and Sappurapolician had both taken up a position higher in the mountain to rest, heal, and perhaps even nap while Ausaphaborishan guarded the entrance to the underground tunnel. As the silver wyrm climbed to the proper height he could see that the other members of his flight were fast asleep. The silver wyrm smiled and landed solidly beside each of the other dragons. Both of the dragons jerked awake and rose to their feet as quickly as possible. As they jerked awake, Ausaphaborishan leapt once more into the air and circled above them. The silver wyrm addressed his flight leader as he circled. “Llywessiar, the people have come and await your address. I have warned them that three dragons will be returning, so they should hopefully not spook so easily.” The gold dragon smiled. “How did they greet you? Were they timid, aggressive, or indifferent?” Ausaphaborishan merely laughed. “They bowed in worship.” Sappurapolician laughed as well. “Did you honestly expect anything less from the Drakontai of a red wyrm? The have no doubt had obedience drilled into their heads from the day that they were conceived!” Llywessiar replied, “Yes, indeed. In that case they will need a gentle hand guiding them.” Llywessiar and Sappurapolician joined Ausaphaborishan and took to the sky. The trio descended down to the rock platform where the villagers awaited them. All of the villagers had to return into the tunnels so that there would be room upon the platform for all three dragons. Even with the villagers pressed back into the tunnel it was a tight squeeze. Of course, the villagers had no trouble backing into the tunnel. It was their natural instinct to want to flee out of the way of the gold dragon especially. In spite of the terror, the villagers were awed by the trio of draconic beings. The same could be said of Rhema, Ischarus, Charis, and Semeion. This was as close as any of the people gathered had come to this many dragons at the same time. It was simply amazing to watch the trio descend in great circular passes from the higher mountain peak onto the rock platform outside the tunnel. The dragons landed with Llywessiar in the center. He was flanked by Ausaphaborishan to his left and Sappurapolician to his right. It was clear that this would be an official meeting between Llywessiar and the villagers. Llywessiar spoke confidently before the people. “Freed people of Quehalost, your tyranny is over.” The dragon paused, expecting some kind of cheer. However, the gold dragon did not receive a cheer from the villagers. In truth, most of the villagers strongly desired to cheer but their fear of the dragon was too much to overcome. They simply stared back at the large gold dragon while in their worshipful kneeling position. Llywessiar continued his speech once he realized the people were unable to overcome their fear. “You are about to taste freedom for the first time. No, actually, you have been living in freedom for almost a month now. But it has not been complete freedom. You had the freedom to work and play when you wanted but you still lived in fear that your dragon father would find you. I saw the destruction of your dragon father. He was given the option of fleeing with his life but in his arrogance he forced us to slay him. In the end, for you it is better to have that conclusion. You need not fear him any longer!” The gold wyrm paused once more to allow cheering; but when it was obvious that the people could still not overcome their fear he quickly continued. “Yet you will need training to live in this world. In many respects it is easier to live in bondage. Your daily tasks are told to you. You are told what to think and what to believe. You are told what to do and how to worship. None of this is true any longer. With freedom comes the ability to make up your own mind. You will need training to live in this world. Who is the leader among you?” The villagers looked around at one another. There was nobody who rose immediately and slowly all eyes fell onto Druff and Xando. They were kneeling beside one another and both could feel the pressure from the rest of the villagers. Llywessiar could also see that these two were the ones to whom the others looked. The gold dragon spoke directly to Druff and Xando. “Rise, children, and tell me your names.” Druff and Xando slowly raised themselves up in unison, standing above the rest of the kneeling villagers. Druff turned to Xando, who introduced himself first. Xando turned and introduced Druff. The yellow dragon smiled and brought his long neck into the cave to allow himself a closer inspection of the men. This meant that a dozen or so of the villagers fell directly beneath the dragon’s long neck. These villagers bowed completely to the ground, pressing their foreheads against the cold stone. Llywessiar looked closely at the two and then pulled his head back out of the cave. “Ischarus has told me about both of you. I find you to be a good selection if you are so willing. As I said, you will all need training to live in this world. I offer you the opportunity to become my children. You will have me as your dragon father and your people will be grafted into my own. My people will teach you about freedom and about worship. Your people will teach my people about life in Quehalost. I will provide what you need to live and your people will prosper under my protection. Is this favorable to you?” The villagers who were still on their knees all bowed at once as if controlled by a single mind. Each of them reached back into their tradition of showing acceptance to their own red dragon father by bowing in submission. It was an automatic response for all except Druff and Xando who were no longer kneeling. Instead, each of these two men stood proud. Xando looked directly at the gold dragon and smiled. “My people accept your offer. My people are your people. Your people are my people.” Druff called out once more to the people. “On your feet, Drakontai! Greet your new dragon father with a cheer!” The villagers rose in unison and cheered. Yet Llywessiar could see that there was one among the villagers who was not cheering as fervently as the rest. The dragon caught this one’s eye and spoke loudly, quieting the villagers and allowing them to return to their knees. “Child, why do you look sad?” All of the villagers, including Druuf and Xando, returned to their knees. From her knees Tierna replied to the gold dragon. “I am my old dragon father’s Provenience. What is to become of me?” Llywessiar looked lovingly to Tierna. His draconic eyes filled with compassion and he spoke softly to her. “Rise, child, and come to me.” Tierna rose without hesitation and stepped toward the gold dragon. Her body was trembling in fear, but she knew that this dragon did not expect to motivate his people through fear. She approached him not knowing what was to come next. Llywessiar smiled and continued to speak softly to her. “Ischarus tells me that you have children growing within you and that your children are of a dragon heritage. Your children should not come into this world without a dragon father to teach them about their talents. They will need my help to learn how to use the passion they inherit from their true father. So long as you are willing, I will be their dragon father. Furthermore, if you are willing I will introduce you to my own Provenience. She will teach you what it means to share in my powers and guide the people rather than to be used and discarded as would have happened under your own dragon father.” Tierna bowed deeply and replied as she bowed. “I accept you as my new dragon father and the father of my children.” Tears began to stream down her face once she realized that the gold dragon had sensed her need and worked to eliminate her concern. She had come so far and was likely rare in being able to claim Provenience under two different dragons. Her original fear was that the gold dragon would want her children destroyed because of their obvious tie to the red wyrm. But this was not to come to pass. Her children would not only live, but they would live in an environment that was not based on fear. They would be taught how to properly use the gifts of a direct draconic lineage. Sappurapolician looked to the other dragons. “These people have come a long way, as have we on this day. We should rest here tonight and leave in the morning. I doubt anything in the land will bother us as we travel if we travel by day.” Rhema was feeling particularly brave as she engaged the large bronze dragon in conversation. “Plus, if we travel by day these people can experience our country and our way of living.” Llywessiar smiled at the woman his dragon son had chosen. “A valid point indeed, Rhema.” He turned to the other dragons and continued, “I was able to receive enough rest earlier in the day. You two return to the mountain perch to sleep and watch from above. I will watch over my people. We’ll leave at first light.” The gold dragon also turned to his newly adopted people. “You have also come a long way. You will need your rest. Tomorrow we begin a much longer journey than you have come so far. The journey is easier, but it will challenge you in your own right. You should sleep and rest now so that we can make good time in the morning.” With the gold dragon’s concluding directions the silver and bronze dragons took to the sky once more and climbed to the skyward perch. The villagers began to sprawl at the tunnel entrance. Night watches were established by Druff, Xando, and their men. Llywessiar aided them by casting magical light upon their weapons as well. For the first time in over a month Rhema, Charis, Ischarus, and Semeion stood together again. They huddled in a tight circle at the edge of the perch overlooking the valley. The intent had been to trade tales. Ischarus had not heard about Semeion’s heroic sacrifice for Tierna’s sake. Nobody had heard Ischarus’ tale about traveling to Barghost to raise the Assembly of Virtuous Dragons. Charis and Rhema needed to tell Ischarus about the struggles and successes in the underground venture over the course of nearly a month. They begun to tell the tales, but they all discovered that they were much more tired than they had earlier thought. Before long the foursome broke up into pairs. Ischarus and Rhema returned to the tunnel first, looking for a place to unroll their blankets. Ischarus spoke softly, “I couldn’t help but think of you the whole time I was away. I kept praying that you would be safe from the red wyrm. I hoped that your numbers would be sufficient to overcome the gnolls or kobolds that dwell in the deep. I’ll sleep better tonight knowing you are beside me now.” That sentiment was all that Rhema needed to here. She felt exactly the same as she lay upon her blanket. She turned into Ischarus so that her head was resting upon his shoulder and his arm was around her. “I know what you mean. Tonight will be the best sleep I’ve had for a month.” A strange smile passed over her face as she looked up to Ischarus. Ischarus saw the smile and couldn’t help reflecting it back at her. “What’s that look for?” Rhema smiled even broader. “Not the way we planned it, sir. But, another job well done! It was another successful venture into Quehalost for the purpose of fighting against evil.” Ischarus hugged her tightly with the arm that was around her. “And people saved from oppression. All in all, we’ve reason to sleep well tonight.” Outside the cave, Semeion and Charis sat on the ledge. Charis had a thoughtful look in her eyes as she glanced over the forest below. It was lit from above by the stars. The long shadows cast by the tops of the trees were hypnotic as a light wind swayed the trees back and forth. She went several minutes without saying a word. Semeion embraced her in a tight hug from behind, wrapping both of his arms around her as he sat behind her. “You ever wonder what might’ve happened if you and Tierna had switched places?” Charis chuckled at the thought. “In a way, that’s not too far from what I was thinking. My people have found a home, Semeion. My people are safe.” Semeion smiled at the thought. “Safer than we’ll be most of our lives, that’s for sure! Do you plan to return with them and your new dragon father to Barghost?” Charis smiled. It was a bittersweet moment for her. “No. I can’t leave the three of you to bungle your way through Quehalost again! My people will be in good hands. I’m sure to some level I’ll be adopted into Llywessiar’s clan as well. But I could never leave the three of you. I could never leave you, Semeion. From the day you gave my parched throat some water you have taught me about compassion.” Semeion pulled Charis even closer into his body. He leaned his forehead against the back of her head and smiled, although he knew she couldn’t see the smile. “Well then, I suppose there is only one more thing that needs clarified. Your people have found a new home. Tierna will have a new dragon father to help bring her draconic bred children into the world. So that leaves you.” Charis looked back out across the forest. A slight tear came to her eyes as she realized how well life had worked out for her fellow Drakontai. Semeion continued speaking, not knowing of the presence of the tear. “You will be my Provenience, then.” Semeion had clearly emphasized the word “my.” Charis leaned back into the young mage. Another tear came to her eyes and she decided not to fight it. This tear represented that just like her own people her life had turned out better than she could have hoped. Considering that she realized her destiny was to be bred to a dragon until she could conceive no longer and then be consumed, she had come far in defeating that destiny. She had surmounted so much evil intent in the world which had been directed at her. She had witnessed the destruction of a force designed to hurt the lives of those who dwelled upon the earth. Her life had become a living testimony of bitterness overcome. [Center]THE END[/Center] [/Sblock] [/QUOTE]
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