Interlude: Dragon's Wrath
"Yup, those were some Daein dogs..." Shinon grumbled while in the presence of Commander Greil. "Dammit, what were they doing...?"
With his keen eyesight, Shinon spotted some of the wyvern riders holding the insignia of Daein with them. Greil remained silent with eyes narrowed at the direction the wyvern platoon went.
It was just as Fiora and Legault said. Daein has invaded and attacked Melior. Fiora fled the city with Sophia and went back to the base to inform the others. After seeing Ike not present, she chose to go back to Port Talma to relay the news with the shaman riding behind her. The others were helping citizens escape, but what the company did not know was that they were also engaged with the elites and their soldiers...
Mist and Rolf were at the side looking visibly afraid of what was to come while Gatrie, Oscar, Boyd, Rhys, and Guy were more worried for the others. The job at Port Talma should have been done and the group were to return to base. It could have been that the debriefing from Fiora and Sophia took longer than usual.
Oscar was visibly shaken by Crimea being invaded, as he was a former knight. He still held some loyalties and hoped most of the knights and civilians survived (even Kieran).
"Their eyes wandered and remained affixed on the pegasus feathers strewn about from Florina and Fiora's steeds," Greil pointed out, making Shinon click his tongue in annoyance. "I think they're looking for Fiora... but they didn't stop to question us upon seeing Rolf and Mist..."
Aside from hesitance to go to battle with Greil and the other mercenaries, they still held a conscience to avoid their base with children present. He noticed one of the red-haired riders as young as his son.
At any rate, they were searching for something or someone. A pegasus rider based on how long they stared at the pegasus feathers and scoured the ground in search of a trail. It was likely they would reach Port Talma...
"Tch... I bet you she stuck her nose into battle by helping people or soldiers. Now she's got on their bad side because of it..." Shinon accurately concluded as he soon turned to Greil. "Commander, we should consider what to do next. Should we work under Daein? We're strong enough. If we prove our strength, they might forgive whatever offense the others might have done back at the capital. We just need to make sure your son and his friends don't do anything rash."
Shinon thought about suggesting the idea of cutting ties with Fiora and some of the others in the company. But that would cause a huge rift and a whole plethora of conflict with the majority of the company's senior and new members. So he could only think of a solution that could amend the current problem. And that was to get in Daein's good graces. With that in mind, it was better to regroup and stay their hand against the advancing army of Daein.
Shinon knew that Crimea was doomed the moment he found out the Daein army invaded. While it would make many of the other Crimeans in the company upset (especially Titania), they had to adapt to their new surroundings by the time Crimea became the newly occupied Daein colony. Like Soren, he put priority on putting mercenary work first and sentiments last. Moreover, they had children in the company who could barely fight. He did not want to endanger the company with them being in peril from trained soldiers.
However, unbeknownst to everyone in the company, Greil was also considered a fugitive. A legendary fugitive in Daein and a deserter. Not even his children knew of his former title and country of birth. He doubted Ashnard would accept him back with open arms. Not to mention how much disaster something could entail if certain things were back in Ashnard's possession...
Greil put aside Shinon's proposal with a shake of the head. It was far too early to make a decision. "Let's wait for the others in Port Talma to come back... Maybe they'll avoid the wyvern troop if Fiora is aware of being pursued. Perhaps the others in Melior will also return..." Shinon became silent for a moment before nodding in understanding.
"Damn, I hope the others are alright..." Guy spoke up worried for Priscilla especially.
He was confident in the strength of the group in Melior. But even he knew that the group would be outnumbered by Daein forces. Based on how desperate Fiora was to inform the others and the wyvern riders possibly pursuing her, they were likely already facing off against the Daein army.
All the more reason for Guy to eagerly join the others to alleviate the pressure for the others facing off an entire army. He was that willing to fight alongside the others who were likely in Melior helping out citizens to escape. He was confident that Ike was already planning to march into Melior to get the others out.
"Indeed... Oh Goddess Ashera, please protect them..." Rhys prayed for the others in Melior. While Gatrie seemed more worried about the situation.
"Oh... I have a bad feeling about all this." Gatrie muttered feeling a bad premonition from the news that was just brought to them.
"Still, it's been a while since the deputy commander and the others have left for the mission. Usually, they'd be back by now. Are they discussing what to do...?" Oscar pondered on the reason for the lack of their members being late.
Since the arrival of Ike's companions from Elibe, the company would finish requests very early. It would not be wise for Ike and the others to rush ahead into the capital to find Raven and the rest of their new members/associates no matter how skilled they all were. It was better to plan out and coordinate with the rest of the group to regain their allies.
"They still got Titania with them. She'll straighten out whatever Ike's got planned..." Boyd pointed out to which Oscar nodded with his brother.
"You don't think they're already fighting with Daein like those wyvern riders, do you? It's already been this long and they could be fighting right now." Rolf added, making the rest of the company flinch at the notion.
It was possible given that Fiora was likely on the run. The group on a pirate-clearing quest was likely to come into conflict with the wyvern platoon to defend her or the townsfolk potentially being subjugated. Even if the ones who hesitated weren't the ones to clash with their company, who's to say other regiments won't? The company wasn't ready to pick fights as of yet. Especially against the mighty nation of Daein. If things went South, they had to adapt accordingly, and fast.
"Ike... come back... please..." Mist held her medallion tightly, as if in prayer.
The medallion held a blue glow for the past day. There were countless times she prayed while holding the medallion especially when Ike went missing. And during that time, it occasionally glowed blue. But now it was glowing more brilliantly than ever.
Greil noticed the anomaly long before the others and knew the ravages of war were signaling the medallion. He did check on his daughter and the artifact after being told the announcement. After all, he knew that the famed Lehran's Medallion would also be called the Fire Emblem of legend since the chaos of war beckoned to the deity slumbering within it...
"Now then..." Greil slowly turned to the silver-haired man who was in the corner, waiting since he announced to the group with Shinon. "Do you have any arrangements we can utilize...? Also, you seemed more privy to the situation than I had previously anticipated. Fiora came after you delivered the letter and cleared the bandits. Where are your sources...?"
The company finally read the letter addressed to Ike. It detailed the news of the invasion of Daein forces. The only thing inaccurate was the estimated time of the invasion based on how early Fiora and Sophia escaped pursuit. Melior was already being overrun by then. How such a message was composed and Legault arrived with news of an impending war did not add up especially when the man was quick on his feet. He would have outright announced to everyone instead of just giving a letter.
The other looked at Legault with mixed expressions of concern, suspicion, or curiosity (save for Guy, who understood the situation). All the while the man held a neutral expression with eyes closed. He opened his eyes, to address the group whose attention was on him.
"I hate to request something of you while the rest of your company is busy, but can some of you accompany me to a certain trading outpost? I believe the others may have fled to one..."
"Ho..." Ashnard let out a small sound of acknowledgment while Petrine held an ashamed and nervous expression. "To think this many of your generals have fallen, Petrine. And you say that an unknown man managed to match you in combat?"
The duo of elites and their ruler stayed in the throne room of the conquered castle. As he read up on the dossier of the casualties and testimonies, the success of taking over the capital was overshadowed by their forces (no matter how meager they were, as the rest of the army was focused on taking the castle) being fended off by a small group, some of them children at best. It was a lukewarm victory, as they had another unknown group of enemies that could rival entire platoons. The King of Daein was certainly amused that a bishop used brute force to defeat an entire regiment.
The one Petrine fought with was using a name and noble rank unknown to Crimea. Whoever this "Raymond" was, he proved himself a fearsome foe as a noble or mercenary. Try as the Daein army could, there was no noble house of Cornwell in Crimea, Begnion, or any other country in Tellius.
Ashnard appeared more impressed and curious as he prodded his rider. He then looked over to Bryce, whose armor received cuts in various areas and needed replacement. He was more interested in the fact that two of his riders were at a stalemate against unknown foes.
"And a lone man, calling himself the 'Angel of Death' appeared before you with a pile of corpses that included a general of ours? And you felt like your neck would be split open if you dropped your guard, Bryce?" Ashnard gave an unsettling grin as he asked his elite who has remained in service since his father's regime.
It was beyond surprising that their nation's decorated veteran general encountered a foe and reached a stalemate. He was arguably Petrine's superior and currently the second-strongest Rider of Daein. Everyone expected him to be in such a state from the likes of Duke Renning of Crimea but like Petrine, he fought against an unfathomable fighter, or rather an assassin.
Bryce closed his eyes and nodded in confirmation. "Yes Sire, if I remained unfocused for even a second, I knew my life would come to an end. The man possessed unparalleled killing techniques as an assassin like no other. Enough to dispatch our generals..." He professed to his king truthfully. "I know not if the Crimean army decided to enlist in the services of this man. His motives are unclear, but there were a pair of skilled men named 'White Wolf' and 'Mad Dog' calling themselves the 'Black Fang'. They were enough to wipe out entire squadrons on their own, including mage general Kayachey. Supposedly, they intended to allow Crimean citizens to escape, including knights."
The reports coincided with testimony from the soldiers who retreated. Eventually, all three individuals reappeared. Unfortunately for those who survived the encounter, they were promptly executed for their failure. On top of that, they were unable to take down a single person from the group.
The fact that their names were just titles and not actual ones made it more apparent they were known elsewhere. Especially if they possessed tremendous skills, the monikers are well-deserved as the ones responsible for hindering their army. Not to mention the one who fought Petrine to a standstill.
Petrine appeared justifiably nervous, as many of the generals felled were under her command. Their failure reflects on her, and she could easily be demoted. Or worse, sentenced to death. All she could do was pray that her liege was not displeased with her.
Contrary to the pair's expectations, Ashnard was not displeased. He seemed more... elated, even excited. Just as he was about to speak, light footsteps were heard and Rajaion, Ashnard's mount, growled in a low voice. Ashnard narrowed his eyes at his mount and then turned to where a single tactician walked through the door of the throne room.
"Ah, Ena..." Petrine called out in a pleasant tone. "Did you come to report your findings this early?"
Ena nodded in affirmation, making Petrine beam and Ashnard put away his slight displeasure from a moment ago. Bryce nodded approvingly at the competent individual. In any event, they all hoped to hear the results of the investigation. Who were the individuals the Daein army clashed with?
"Yes, we've extracted information from our captured prisoners of war and civilians. Names and identities of the enemy were revealed. However..." Ena's voice was cut off by the sound of the sudden clanking of armor. Everyone's heads turned to the source of the noise. The sound grew closer until it finally reached the throne room.
Clad in dark and heavy armor, adorned with a red cape wrapped around his collar. The newest and strongest Rider they've had under their service since Gawain. But also the most elusive and mysterious man to come to fight under their banner. No one knew of his true purpose to serve as part of the nation's greatest elite.
"I'm afraid your news will have to wait. The crown prince of Crimea marches with his remnant army to reclaim his fallen capital..." Black Knight reported. Ashnard's grin grew more menacingly.
"So, Renning seeks to take back his birthright? I hear he's the finest general of the land. I expect much from such a man compared to his brother..." He said with anticipation in his tone. He intended to conquer him and utilize the Princess of Crimea to legitimize his occupation. Of course, there were other things to consider if his side plans went through... After all, if he were to fall by carnage, he wouldn't have it any other way...
There were no orders to be said, every fighter knew to join their king in battle. With that, the rest of the Riders gave a salute and followed their liege with his restless wyvern. Ena was left alone, watching the mount of Ashnard with a pained expression. All the while she held the same stone in her hand with eyes closed...
Nasir held a white stone that resembled a quartz. His eyes were closed while hearing the clamoring of villagers outside the tavern. He sat inside the establishment while outside the private door arranged for the mercenaries who were discussing something important.
It was understandable, as Daein and Crimea were at war. It will likely reach the countryside within a few days. Their way of life may be disrupted by Daein's occupation.
But there was a seeming lack of resistance coming from some of the townsfolk at times, almost to a baffling degree. He could hear some protests from a pair of women, both of them pegasus fliers, imploring the town of Port Talma to escape. Fatalism is a dangerous concept during these times... Some of the Beorcs of the town had no awareness of what horrors were to come from a defeated country...
"Please, come in."
The voice came from a man with a bandana wrapped around his head. Beside him was a beautiful... man (as he soon noticed the lump in his throat). They nodded at him and went outside to assist in convincing the town to evacuate.
As Nasir went inside, he was greeted with the sight of one of his brethren, and one of the parentless... Along with another light blue-haired pegasus knight, a green-haired woman with a ponytail, and the young mercenary lad. Their leader was a red-haired woman with her long hair twisted and tied up in the back, who appeared unsure of everything thus far.
"You're a dragon Laguz from Goldoa, aren't you?" Ike queried to Nasir who held a neutral expression. The leader of the group widened her eyes at the inquiry made by her underling.
"Ike! What are you-" Titania's voice was cut off by the raise of the hand from Nasir. The latter did not appear offended whatsoever.
"I'm not surprised you found out, given the traits of my people..." Nasir admitted making Titania blink repeatedly at the first dragon Laguz she'd come face-to-face with her entire life. "My name is Nasir. Tell me, did you conclude my race from a book held by a pirate trio of a suicide squad, one of them including a dark blue-haired pegasus rider?" Fiora's eyes widened at the mention of her younger sister. The others looked at one another with astonishment.
"Farina..." She muttered to which Nasir nodded.
"Yes, that was the name of the pegasus rider who approached me. The other two were named... Dart and Geitz, I believe... So you're the blue-haired lad he mentioned." Nasir addressed to Ike who nodded. He then turned to his light blue-haired brethren whose expression was neutral. Now that he gained a closer look, he noticed his brethren's ears were round. "Are they aware?"
His question was met with a nod of the head from Nils. "Most of them know. It's OK. I don't mind. After all, I'm the one who informed them of you." His response was met with a furrow of the brow from Titania, who appeared more confused by the situation.
Nasir raised a brow, more amused by the assortment of exotic-looking people, pegasus knights, young mercenaries, a dragon, and someone who appeared to be a Branded. To think a dragon would be this open to reveal their identity in front of Beorcs...
"To think I would meet a fellow brethren. You seem rather young for a dragon. Are you as young as our Prince?" Nasir inquired. All the while Titania widened her eyes at Nils.
'Nils is... a dragon!?' She thought to herself. Some of the people present scratched themselves over Nils's true race.
Well, he was technically half-dragon and half-human. But revealing the full truth would complicate matters. For now, they just went with Nils being a dragon. Nasir was left confused by the Davros suicide squad to realize Nils was not a full dragon based on their whispers months ago. But his aura was faint, but he was undeniably a dragonkin unlike the signs emitted by the Parentless...
"I'm... a bit older than most would believe, even by your standards," Nils explained to which Nasir cocked a curious brow. "But yes, I am a dragon but I'm not from Goldoa. And they are all my friends. Companions. Comrades of whom I would never let go and they would do the same..."
Everyone from Elibe including Ike smiled at Nils's assertion. They would risk their lives for one another as friends and family. Even Titania was surprised by the young-looking dragon's trust in Ike and possibly herself.
Nils's statement left Nasir baffled yet intrigued. The Goldoan dragon traveled far and wide to search for a way to promote coexistence between Laguz and Beorc. Yet none such as this group, the Crimean royal family, or the Davros came close. The real question... is why and how? Moreover, Nasir was interested in the fact that Nils was a dragon not from his homeland.
"I'm astonished to see that kind of resolve. Our Prince Kurthnaga is the youngest dragon in Goldoa. We dragons of Goldoa would have known a youthful individual such as yourself so it is curious to see someone like you live outside of my homeland." Nasir stated in a curious tone. He then looked over at every single person in the room with an appraising eye. "I wonder if it is a matter of culture or values that differ from ours... Was it easy to trust them all?"
Nasir assumed that Nils came from a land unknown to most of Tellius. Perhaps from a surviving land where some dragons may have branched off from the continent or a colony of dragons beyond the Desert of Death. Nasir's conclusion was somewhat on the mark, but far from being the correct answer.
Nils shook his head with a slight smile. "No, it took much effort, but it paid off. I wouldn't trade this happiness in accompanying my friends and family for the world. And believe me, my kind from where I lived was arguably just as isolationist as you..." Sophia seemed to be included as she nodded with the ice dragon before her.
"Nils..." Lyn voiced out with happiness in her tone. All the while Ike nodded approvingly at their bard companion.
Titania was visibly surprised to see Ike gain such trust and friendship from a supposed dragon. She's learned much from books but for the boy she's seen grow up most of his life to achieve such a feat was amazing. None of the others from Elibe seemed to question such camaraderie meant that only she was out of the loop.
"For years since I left Goldoa, I sought to find a way for Laguz and Beorcs to coexist and thrive. Neither race can live in isolation and that is what led to my disagreement with my King's policy..." Nasir explained with his eyes closed. He then opened them to hold a sad gaze at the people before him. "If only the rest of the world could follow your example."
"That may be a long time from now, but I do hope it can happen. But there are more important things to ask right now," Ike pointed out to which Nasir's attention went to the former. "Are you aware of Ashnard's mount being a dragon?"
Nasir couldn't help but frown and twitch his eye.
'They know...?' He thought to himself. But he quickly shook off his thoughts to address the young mercenary. He couldn't let them know the truth.
"Are you sure it's not a wyvern that you're mistaking the King of Daein's mount for?" Nasir asked with a frown. He hoped to steer away from the truth of his brethren in Daein.
He wondered if another besides the dragon before him was present at the time of the attack... Dragons in general had a good instinct to locate or sense their kind, comparable to the Herons. He clenched his hands tightly as if holding something in his hands. No... she felt no presence besides her beloved...
Ike shook his head at his inquiry. "Unfortunately, we have our ways and methods to differentiate between wyverns and dragons. That's why we came to you to clarify what you know about Daein and Goldoa. Also, there was supposedly a second dragon during the attack on Melior." Nasir was visibly shaken at the mention of the second unknown dragon, which was noticed by everyone present. That meant he knew something. "Our sources say that both of them were sad. Something must have happened to them, or at least one. Can you explain what might be the issue?"
A long silence permeated throughout the room. Everyone knew Nasir was mulling over the matter of whether to reveal something. Sophia was silent but her eyes revealed an eagerness to help.
"Before I reveal anything, tell me. Some of the crew from the Davros mentioned something about a dragon that ended up in my homeland, care to explain?" Nasir inquired to which Ike and the others took a moment to look at each other and nod.
"It... was a teleportation spell gone wrong..." Sophia spoke up bringing Nasir's attention to her. "We've requested an audience with your king... I wish to bring my friend back to our home..."
It wasn't much of a secret about Fae's circumstances. There was more to be said, but that was the simplest explanation.
Nasir cocked his brow at the explanation he received. Moreover, the home of this Parentless and dragon consisted of their kind living with one another. Certainly a far cry from what is expected of Beorc and Laguz in harmony. Not only that, it would take great effort to convince King Dheginsea to allow a Parentless into his kingdom.
"And if you saw a book of various info about people, let's just say a sage wanted to give a copy to all the Laguz royals. The Davros took the task while wanting to drink with all of them." Ike added, making Nasir nod at the explanation.
"Those were essentially the same words given to me by the trio that approached me months ago..." Nasir recalled while reminded of suicide squad. He gave an amused grin the next moment. "Rather a rambunctious group of pirates who dare to share libations with royals, would you not agree? I'm not sure they would appreciate the fact that their portraits and descriptions were compiled in books..."
To seek an audience with the Laguz nation royalty was bound to lead to an execution, especially for corsairs. Not anyone can meet the kings of each Laguz nation outside of fellow royalty. Not even the king of Crimea could seek fellowship from others outside of Gallia.
Not to mention having a book of sensitive information in the hands of pirates was not a good impression. Nasir wondered if the group before him possessed a copy. Titania on the other hand was increasingly becoming more confused on the matter. What was that about a book? She knew about the Davros requesting an audience but delivering copies of books?
Ike in response gave a scratch of the head. "Yeah... I have no idea what's going on in the head of the man who created them. I hope it doesn't implicate them in something. Though I think King Caineghis would get along fine with them."
Nasir once again gave a skeptical look. Yes, the Beast King was supposedly the most Beorc-friendly king out of all the Laguz nations. But it would take much effort to convince him to drink with Beorc pirates.
"Hmm... I wonder if there was a letter that was delivered just recently," Lyn spoke up, putting her finger on her chin to ponder. "Let's check back at the base to see if he messaged us, Ike! Once we're done getting everyone back."
Once again, Nasir was dumbfounded by this group's belief that a correspondence from the King of Gallia would arrive to them. Then again, they had befriended one of his kind... Such optimism can be said to be foolish, or needed during this precarious time...
There were more questions to be inquired, like the Heron prince of Serenes listed. But that was a matter that could be later divulged at a later date. He didn't want to draw too much suspicion... He held his stone deep into his sleeves without anyone noticing with eyes closed.
"Very well, since you exchanged some information," Everyone's attention went to Nasir, who spoke up with eyes open. "I will impart to you what I know of the dragons associating with Daein."
Nasir gave a serious expression the next moment. "I avoided the matter of my brethren whenever I could, as I am in self-exile. But I couldn't ignore their presence at times... My sources say that they've been present in Daein, hoping to investigate a matter, but..." Nasir inhaled deeply. "Yes... As you just revealed, I fear the worst has occurred..."
"The dragon he rode had a red underside and spikes throughout its black-scaled body," Fiora finally spoke up, elaborating on the description.
Nasir couldn't hide the twitch on his face and eyes. While the others couldn't see his hands, they could tell his fists were clenched. They could feel a sense of anger emanating from the man that was not directed at them. Titania swore she saw slits in his pupils.
"So it's true..." He muttered in a sorrowful and shaky tone. Nasir then snapped out of his current state and shook his head.
"Forgive me," Nasir apologized. He then exhaled to address the group before him who stood wary of his emotional state. "I will ask that you try to keep this matter amongst yourselves. And avoid revealing such a matter to the Goldoans should you ever come across them. Though my King may already be aware..."
The group glanced at one another before turning to Nasir. Whatever was to be revealed would be a sensitive topic.
'Do you believe it is right to tell them? Then please, do so. I would hope for them to go to Goldoa and find their friend... and to leave this land. I know not of their strength, for their involvement may sabotage my efforts...'
Nasir felt that it wouldn't change the situation by informing them, but a single dragon may change the tides of war. And who knows how strong the people before him are by achieving the task of befriending a dragon? Whatever he would reveal would also serve as a warning. And perhaps a plea for help...
"I've heard of a red dragon platoon sent into Daein to deal with a secret task. During that time, I believe even my prince was involved... and something happened to them all..." The group's eyes widened at the revelation. Prince?
Everyone present had a feeling that everything would become complicated. Much more complicated... one that could easily sour the little relations they've built up with Goldoa. It was as if a premonition of an omen crept up on everyone present.
Nils and Sophia paled upon the future they suddenly peered into... All they could see was scorched land. Nothing left but ash. Ike noticed the pair paling, unbeknownst to Nasir. It was an outcome that they needed to avoid by treading lightly, lest they welcome ruin.
"Have the greatest caution and discretion when revealing this secret, please... Then again, if you reveal the matter, it may already be too late. The one you witnessed as Ashnard's mount... was likely none other than the Black Dragon Prince and heir to Goldoa's throne, Rajaion. For your sake, and your goals... I hope you can convince the King to take your friend and leave while the war is still happening. Leave far away to whatever land undiscovered to the rest of Tellius. You mustn't reveal this matter to anyone but yourselves... for I fear King Dheginsea's wrath is one spark away from turning the continent to ashes. I doubt anyone would believe you. It matters not how strong you are or who you are, you will be powerless against the wrath of our King should things continue further or his son is felled... Run. Run and never come back... Even if the Dark God awakens through the ravaging of the land, or our King gratefully accepts the Goddess Ashera's punishment for going against her teachings, I hope you make haste and find refuge beyond the disaster of the likes of the Flood that is sure to emerge once again..."
Jahn found his days to be more enjoyable, as he was busy assisting and studying stones granted to him by the King. Some of his restrictions were lifted to grant him more freedom, much to the dismay of some of his fellow draconic brethren. He would do no harm.
He did share his knowledge of the arcane and inner workings of the Dragonstones. Recently, he was requested to make the gems required for longer and more permanent periods of transformation without any impediment like Laguz Bands. It was a curious project, one that contradicted the previous stance of the King, despite denying fanning the flames of war...
He took a glimpse at a correspondence laying on the desk in front of him by a human messenger from the nation of Daein to King Dheginsea. That messenger was turned to ashes soon after by sentries... Perhaps their family was threatened or to be given compensation after delivering the message. But it likely wouldn't matter given what was likely to come...
"My... I was right... And all it took was one glance at the state of his brood..." Jahn remarked with a snort. He also wasn't supposed to be present in Dheginsea's private study. But he could tell from the cracked floor and damaged desk that the king flew into a somewhat silent rage. On top of the desk was a single of paper... or rather a portrait with a small bit of writing underneath.
"I wonder what this human is thinking...? Provoking as if begging to die... I should never underestimate the unpredictability of humans... especially this one..." He said as he faded away in the private study, leaving the note addressed to the King...
It was a message from one king to another underneath the portrait:
How do you like my new mount, King Dheginsea? I'm glad to have also received your gift of red dragons. I will use my new mount, your son, Rajaion, and your people, well.
AN: Sorry for the delay. Just got done with real-life stuff (moving and work even during the holiday). My schedule was tight when writing and plotting.