A/N: And here's the next chapter! Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I don't own Dungeons and Dragons. I only own my original ideas.
Chapter 104: Recovery and Rewards
I awoke, and noticed someone had erected a temporary structure above me. I slowly got to my feet, feeling stiff, like I'd been resting for too long. Soon, someone entered.
"Ah, you're awake!" said the human.
"How long was I out?" I asked.
"A few days," said the human, "how are you feeling?"
"I'm alive, that's enough," I replied, "what of the others?"
"They awoke the morning after you arrived," said the human, "they've been waiting for you".
I made my way out of this large tent, shaking out the pins and needles as I went. I felt different somehow, like something within me had changed. I didn't feel bad, though. It was a busy day at the Greenhall Academy. Students were moving about between classes and there was a general buzz of activity. I also noticed a large stage had been construted at one end of the courtyard. I soon found my conpanions, gathered near this stage. All of them were present, though Lydratir's chent was still wrapped in bandages. We'd all acquired new scars, but we were all alive at least.
"Valignatitisk!" said Narcrath, "you're finally awake!"
"It seems I am," I replied, "what's going on?"
"The Lord's Alliance heard about what happened involving the Shadow Triad," said Charles, "I mean, it would be bizarre for them to not notice. In any case, they wish to award us, that group of adventurers who leapt into the depths of the Void and took out this threat at the source. They're sending a delegation to meet us".
I glanced down at shattered remants of the amulet that once held Ashardalon's spirit. I thought of his last words to me. His descendant, he was my ancestor. He'd given his all to protect me… protect us… protect the entire world. I'd never forget him, or his sacrifice.
Later that day, the front ranks of the delegation arrived, led by a familiar face. There, at the head of the delegation was a man composed of wood, metal and stone, but still as 'alive' as possible. It was Sir Barrik the Lighthearted, Paladin of Bahamut.
"Sir Barrik?" I said, "It's been a while".
"That it has," said Barrik, "I'd been wondering where you've been, but the rumors the wind carried spoke of a wyrm matching your description. Ah, and these must be your travelling companions".
"Yes, I am honored to introduce Charles, skillful warrior and blacksmith, Krisyra, the wise and powerful druid, Lydratir, a ranger of great talent amd peerless accuracy, Narcrath the mighty sorcerer, and last but certainly not least Uxarix, a paladin of impressive skill. Without their respective talents and support, I'd likely not be standing here today".
"Good to meet you all," said Barrik, "may Bahamut's light guide you".
"And may his scales shield you, Sir Barrik," replied Uxarix.
"Anyway, like I said, it's good to see you're well," said Barrik, "when I first met you, I was uncertain where you might end up, but it seems you found your path in the world. The rest of the delegation should be here with a few days, then we can get on with giving you your well-deserved rewards".
His words proved to be true, and a few days later everything was ready. A nobleman arrived in a heavily guarded carriage. I recognized the face of General Knox, who had arrived in a set of ornate armor. The nobleman was similiarly dressed in finery, and observed his surroundings quietly.
"Presenting, Lord Dagult Neverember, Lord-Protector of Neverwinter," said Knox.
"Thank you General," said Lord Neverember, "shall we?"
They led a procession up to the stage, and took their position.
"Recently, the people of Faerûn were faced with a powerful, dangerous threat from a cult calling itself the Shadow Triad, many warriors across the land stepped forth to face it, and some were felled by these dark forces. However, certain individuals took upon themselves the burden of facing this evil at its source. Venturing beyond the bounds of our world to destroy the being that was at the heart of this foul plot," said Lord Neverember, "today, we honor those heroes. Heroes, step forwards!"
We did a commanded some of the guard force observing me with worry.
"We owe all of you a debit of gratitude, and if you wish anything within reason, we will do our best to grant it," said Lord Neverember.
My companions each made their requests, each of which was granted. Then, it came my turn.
"And you, dragon," said Lord Neverember, "it is rare for any of your kind to take such a path as you have. What would you request?"
I thought it over, and knew I had only one thing to ask of him. I didn't need a boundless pile of treasure, or something of great luxury. I wanted my lair.
"I would only ask one thing of you, Lord Neverember," I said, "the island where my companions and I fought the cult. I would like to claim it as my territory".
"One moment," said Lord Neverember.
He turned to his advisors, and looked over what I recognized was a map.
"I see no issue granting this request," said Lord Neverember, "The island is, as of now, not claimed by anyone. But I would ask, why such a simple request? You could have virtually anything".
"I am aware, but you must understand," I said, "I'm still a fairly young dragon, and I have an extremely long life ahead of me. When I touch that land, I knew it was where I belonged. It was where I needed to make my lair, my home. As for a reward of treasure? I have all my life ahead of, thousands of years if I and careful, to buld up my hoard. I can wait".
"Very well then," said Lord Neverember, "bring me a land deed!"
One of his assaitants brought out a roll of parchment, and Lord Neverember quickly filled in some details then laid it before me. I looked it over, pushing my way pash the legalese to cut to the chase: The requested parcel of land would be under the legal ownership of the signer (me, in this case) for as long as that person or their family members resided there. I dipped one claw into the inkwell, and signed the land deed.
"And now our business is concluded," said Lord Neverember, "let us celebrate your victory and honor the fallen".
With that, the mage of the Greenhall academy launched orbes of colorful light into the air, making them burst in a variety of patterns. There would still be much to do, but for the moment, we could simply enjoy this moment of respite.
A/N: And there we go! After the events within the voidspace, the party has officially reached level 17. This means 9th level spells for Narcrath and Krisyra, 5th level ranger spells for Lydratir, 5th level Paladin spells for Uxarix, and more Action Surge and Indomitable for Charles. Meanwhile, Valignatirisk, to top of upgrading his elemental resistance to elemental immunity, gains the Cataclysm ability, which, by expending a use of his breath weapon, can summon a 30 foot tall, 30 foot radius effect that is a cyclonic zone of elemental destruction that last for a minute. In any case, see you next time!