Darganau: Autobiography of a Dragon
Part IX: Spells and Treasures, Part 1
After a restful night, I fed off some nearby boar, then rested some more. About noon, I rose up. Perched on this rise overlooking the Southern Sea, I felt a bit small for the first time in my life. The vastness of the sea before me was humbling.
I didn’t like the feeling. I growled, spread my wings, and lifted off, determined to defeat this sea.
It was a long, and somewhat frightening trip. Once I’d lost sight of the northern continent’s coast, doubts crept into my mind. Would I make it across? What if a sudden storm came up?
But another fear also crept into my mind. Had I made a mistake in trusting the wizard Kalen with my worldly possessions? Inside the chest I suddenly had no doubt a wizard could open not only contained the gold and jewels, but the two tomes: The Dragons and Laurel’s spell book. The spell book! Would not a wizard crave it? Laure was no slouch of a wizard!
My hope I had not been ripped off was based on the fact I had not mentioned the book to Kalen, and thus he shouldn’t know about it. But didn’t I allude to having I merely by asking to be taught magic?
Self-doubt is a terrible thing. It would be many years before I would overcome that particular fault.
I was tiring. My wings weighed heavy. I had flown a day and a night! I even began to fear I‘d entered some sort of gate, that had opened into a world of water, with no land to perch upon! My muscles were cramping, and more and more, I feared I wouldn’t - couldn’t – make it!
Then it was suddenly there. The coast of the southern continent!
And how glorious it was! As far as I could see, east or west, the stone walls rose from the sea to the heights of small mountains. The rock walls looked like smooth guardians, protecting the continent from invasion.
But closer up, one could see the walls were not smooth, but rough and jagged. The peaks were like uneven teeth, some rising much higher than others. Still, the wall was ominous, and would, indeed, provide a protective barrier from invasion.
As I flew up and down the coast, scanning for Kalen’s promised beacon, I saw there were beaches at the bottom of the wall. Not always; much of the bottom were dangerous rocks, with no safe way of approach. But the beaches, few in number and spread far out, gave the possibility of landings (though how one would then make it beyond the wall was problematic). A few of these beaches were large enough to build a trio or so smallish buildings, though no one had. Others were no larger than to hold a landing skiff and a half dozen explorers.
Suddenly the light was there! For just an instant, it flashed in my eyes – probably to get my attention. Then I was able to lock in on it, and followed it to a particularly high portion of the wall.
As I approached, I saw the craggy rock wall would be a challenge for humans or elves to ascend. I slowed my flight and came close to the mountain. There was the promised landing, high up the cliff, though I couldn’t see Kalen, nor discern the source of the light. But this close, I could now see a series of stone steps rising up the cliff, within a steady overhang and crack in the wall that had hid it from my view ‘til now.
I alighted on the landing. The light, I discovered, had no source! It simply hung in the air before the fissure leading into the mountain, totally unseeable from the reverse side, but bright on front side.
“Come on in!” Kalen’s voice called from within.
I felt relief wash over me. Kalen had stayed true to his word. He had not absconded with my possessions. I entered through the fissure, noting I’d not be able to grow much more, before I’d have to squeeze myself in!
“You had me worried,” Kalen told me. “I had expected you three or four hours ago.” He chuckled. “I should have known there was nothing o worry about; have I not seen those strong, muscular wings? I trust your flight went well?”
“Yes. I have to admit, I rested overly long before taking off; then I had to scan the front of this stone wall. How extraordinary!”
Kalen nodded. I thought you might. I forewarned our neighbors.”
I furrowed my brow. “We have neighbors?”
“A crude colony of half-intelligent lizard-folk. I have explained the situation, and they assured me we would be left alone; they no longer hunt this area.”
“Why don’t they?”
Kalen produced what I can only describe as a ‘wicked smile’. “They say this area is cursed!”
I nodded, chose a corner of this large first room, and settled myself down.
I thought you would be tired from your flight,” Kalen said, “so I took the liberty of preparing you a meal!” He seemed to concentrate, then spoke a few arcane words. The carcass of a recently slain mountain llama appeared before me! I mumbled my thanks, and snatched up the carcass into my maw. “There is more in the room I have readied for you,” he nodded his head toward an opening leading into a long cave. This was about the same width as the entry. There is a natural drip in a corner of your room, and the water pools in a small pond about four feet in width and a foot and a half deep, before slowly draining to some lower echelon.”
“Thank you, Kalen. You have been very kind to me.” I hesitated a few beats before adding, “Why?”
He chuckled again. “Yes, I suppose there is always a motive, eh? Okay; I’ll admit it. There are two reasons, and I assure you, neither is greater than the other.
“First, there is the simple fact I have a child-like desire to know a dragon, and it’d be quite a unique thing o have one as a friend! Second, I am wagering you have Laurel’s spell book. I am hoping – but not demanding – that you will share the spells within with me.”
I was no fool, not even at that young age. I was sure the latter was most important to him! Oh, how he must have been tempted to open that chest; but the threat of making an enemy of a dragon stayed his hand!
But how could I blame him? Was I, also, not as greedy? I have never seen greed as a bad thing.
I smiled wide. “Kalen, I feel we are going to be great friends! And as payment for teaching me the arcane arts, I will, indeed, share Laurel’s book with you!”
It was almost comical, seeing the relaxation of his muscles, the smile he tried to hold back but could not!
I beg my weariness – which was very true – and had him show me to my room. It was a mostly circular cavern, about three times my length. The pond was on the far side. A thick bed of straw had been laid for me, and three more boar carcasses lay before it. My chest lay beside it.
After opening the chest and assuring myself all was as it should be, I took a drink of the water. Fresh, but it had a harsh mineral taste. I supposed I’d get used to it.
Tomorrow, I would take a flight to check out the food supply. The day after, my schooling would begin. But just then, I would eat the boar, and sleep; and hopefully the soreness of my muscles would abate by the time I awoke.
Just before sleep took me, I recalled the humbleness the Southern Sea had invoked within me. But I had defeated the sea. I vowed never to feel humbled again!
Monday, September 5, 2016
So, for what turned into several years, I trained in the arts of magic. Kalen was a good and patient teacher, I an ornery and difficult student. I wasn’t a slow learner, he’d once explained; just an impatient one. I wanted to learn the most powerful of spells, you see, and didn’t, at the time, understand why he insisted in teaching me ‘level-by-level’.
Monday, September 5, 2016
Darganau: Autobiography of a Dragon
Part X: Spells and Treasures, Part 2
So, for what turned into several years, I trained in the arts of magic. Kalen was a good and patient teacher, I an ornery and difficult student. I wasn’t a slow learner, he’d once explained; just an impatient one. I wanted to learn the most powerful of spells, you see, and didn’t, at the time, understand why he insisted in teaching me ‘level-by-level’.
That’s what he called them; Levels of Magic. There were, he taught me, nine levels. Ugh. That was a lot of learning.
Our home at that time, within the mountainous cliffs above the sea, was more extensive than I’d first realized. Besides the large room off the opening, there was my own cubby-hole of a room, and an equally sized one Kalen resided in. But there was also a tunnel far too small for me to traverse, that seemed to lead deeper in, and that Kalen often went into.
One day, as my curiosity grew, Kalen cast a spell upon me – which transformed me into a human! I followed him into the tunnel, where I learned that the place had once been a smuggler’s, or pirate’s, hide-out! There were several small caves, hewn out of the rock by mortal hands. In some, the remnants of emptied boxes and chests remained. Some of the caves had obviously been used as sleeping rooms, and a few had doors, and were apparently used to hold prisoners!
I was quite intrigued, and Kalen taught me about Cathos, the southern continent’s greatest city, located atop a portion of these very cliffs, at the northwest corner, where two seas met. There, was a wide plateau where the city had been built. Like none on the northern continent, the city of Cathos was a city-state, ran as a militaristic entity. Everyone, man and woman, served at least six years in the military. It was a powerful, well-defended city, who left others alone, as long as they were left alone. This was the beginning of my political lessons, which I though fascinating!
Of course, we had need to feed during those years, and my appetite was voracious! Beyond the cliffs, there was a vast plain, which ran nearly the entire width of the continent, though not a third so wide. It was the most fertile land of the continent, Kalen told me. There were but three cities upon it, but several nomadic tribes roamed the plain.
This plain was home to quite a lot of wildlife. Goats, buffalo, gazelles, even lions! It was a smorgasbord of delicious meats! I’d hunt for both of us, and we ate well. Kalen also had an affinity for vegetables (ugh!) and built a garden of some of his favorites.
During one of my hunting trips, I caught the scent of something… wonderful! I followed that scent like a bloodhound. Soon, I saw a caravan, some twenty ox-driven wagons. It wasn’t the oxen, nor the oddly-dressed humans in the caravans I had sensed though. No, it was the gold they carried! Imagine my surprise, to realize I could actually smell gold!
I went to work immediately. I flew east, ahead of the caravan, then turned sharply and dove. I strafed the wagons with my fire. The sweet, pungent odor of burning flesh and wood filled me with lust! I overflew to the west, turned sharp again, and strafed them from the opposite direction!
A few humans were fleeing, now. One of them was aflame, and I laughed to see such a sight!
Then I turned, and landed close to the destruction I had wrought.
Out of the flames, it seemed, five men appeared, walking unabashedly toward me! I thought of exerting my aura, but I suddenly felt the desire – no, the need – to test my skills against them!
The five suddenly separated, two jogging left, two jogging right. The remaining man held a curved blade (I later learned this was called a khopesh). I grinned, and decided to make quick work of this one, since he was obviously deemed the toughest! I spewed my flame over him.
It affected him not! What devilry was this!?
Seemingly in response to my non-verbalized question, the human spoke to me. I could not understand his language, but understood the mocking tone. He raised his weapon and charged!
That was when I cast my first spell in combat. I raised my claw and spoke the arcane words. Ice spewed from my hand! Both Kalen and I thought it would be a hoot for a fire-breathing dragon to use ice as a weapon! And the result was a wonder! The man’s advance was halted, and a layer of ice covered him!
But now the others struck! A blade dug into my hindquarters. Then another! I felt the other two blades strike me, but my scales deflected them. I spun to the left, whipping my tail to the right as I did. My tail struck one of my attackers and sent him flying. With an open claw, I struck one of the warriors on my left, cutting through his clothing and ripping two long stripes in his flesh (had I been a bit closer, it would have been four stripes!).
Now it became a ballet, with each man taking turns lunging in, then quickly retreating, and I whipping my tail and clawing at them. At his second lunge, I caught the one I’d already injured, and my claw not only opened his chest, but the smallest of my claws lopped off his head!
The death of their companion deterred them not the slightest. These were men well trained for combat. Long minutes followed, before I’d dispatched another. Meanwhile, thrice their blades found their ways past my scales. I was in pain, and weakening.
Angrily, I snapped out, catching one of them in my teeth. I rose up in my fury, and crunched down, splitting the man in two.
It was a stupid move. I’d left my scaleless underbelly exposed! The last man standing ran his blade deep into me. In agony. I hopped backward, summoned my bile and, as the man again charged, I let loose my fires, engulfing and consuming him.
I was breathing in heaves. The pain was excruciating. But I heard a noise to my right and spun toward it. The first man, the one I’d iced, had risen.
But instead of attacking, he raised a hand, as though to say stop; enough. Despite his obvious pain, he stood up straight, bowed, said something in his strange tongue, then knelt before me. I was awed by this act of contrition.
He then bowed his head, and held out his weapon. Hesitantly, wary of the warrior’s intentions, I reached out and gingerly plucked the sword from his palms with my claws. Like other magics I’d seen, this sword also grew to fit my hold.
Then the man stood again and bowed once more. In awe of such honor, I bowed my own head. The warrior turned away from me and walked away from the carnage, out into the plains. I watched him until the contour of the land hid him from my view. I never saw him again.
I sat on my haunches and looked the sword over. I even tried swinging it a bit. It was lighter than it looked, but still awkward to me. Still, I fell in love with it! It was a treasure I had earned!
I looked back at the caravan. It was now abandoned by any survivors, and smoldering. I could smell heady odor of the gold, even above the smell of ash. I longed to search for it.
But I was bleeding, and I had to deal with those wounds, first. It was fortunate that the most serious wound, on my underbelly, but more to my right side, was within reach of my flame. I cauterized the wound, then started to dig up the ground around me. I would make a mud poultice for each of my wounds.
Despite my wounds, I felt invigorated by the fight! I had bested five well-trained warriors; my greatest accomplishment to date! What a story I’d have to tell Kalen when I returned!
But just then, I needed rest. I made a meal of a few of the burnt oxen, then lay down, exuding my aura before falling asleep. I dreamt of combat, gold and victories yet to come. I dreamt of a mountain citadel I called my own, with piles of gold, gems and jewelry. And a world that loathed and feared me!
Such dreams, I knew even then, were fated to come true!
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
Friday, September 9, 2016
Darganau: Autobiography of a Dragon
Darganau: Autobiography of a Dragon
Part XI: City-Bound
When I’d returned from my battle with the caravan guards, flying and landing awkwardly (being burdened with three filled chests I had managed to find a way to carry), Kalen was there to greet me. When he saw my injuries, he told me to take to my bedding, and he’d tend to them.
He introduced me to a magical salve, which almost instantly closed wounds! My internal injuries were not serious, and within a few days, I’d nearly fully recovered.
During those days, Kalen had moved his work into my room. While he copied spells from Laurel’s book to his own, I regaled him with my antics. We discussed my adventure at length. He did not suggest I stop my raids, which I now had a thirst for, but had suggestions; ideas of how to insure maximum return for minimal endangerment.
We developed our method. From a height too great to be detected, I would search for a target caravan. For this, I would use the farsight spell I’d already learned, and had well mastered. Then, I would transform myself into a human, and insert myself into the caravan. For this, Kalen would prepare two spell scrolls. Since I was not yet capable of casting them, he would prepare the Transformation and Fly spells for me.
Odd, I thought, that I would need magic to fly! But the human body wasn’t made for flying, more’s the pity.
After infiltrating the caravan (we discussed several methods of accomplishing that), I would locate the richest of the treasures they carried. When the timing was right, I would get near as possible to the treasure, transform back to dragon-form (which only took a mental command), do as much damage as I could in as little time as possible, grab the loot, and hightail it back to our sanctuary.
I liked the plans we made, and I put them into action within another week. There proved to be a steady flow of caravans between the three plains cities, as well as one or two a week going to, or coming from, the distant city of Cathos. I would have to spy from on high some length of time to determine which was laden with the greatest treasures – which were invariably the ones most heavily guarded.
Kalen had made me up a new batch of the magical healing ointment as well, but for quite some time, I didn’t need it. Even after all the caravans had learned to watch for strangers, Kalen merely added a scroll – an Invisibility spell! If I were quiet enough, the guards were unaware of my presence – until it was too late!
The guards got better. Fine swordsmen were getting their licks in on me. I was eventually going through a jar of the ointment nearly every excursion! This didn’t deter me though; it only made me begin to respect the way of the swordsman.
Kalen would make several trips a month to Cathos for supplies we needed. He used a spell called Teleport to go back and forth. I, too, wanted to see Cathos, but Kalen warned me the city was walled and more than well-guarded. But I had a plan of my own.
Nearly a year had passed now, and the caravans had started bringing wizards along, which made it a more dangerous proposition, this caravan robbing. The first time I faced a wizard, taken by surprise, he had injured me severely. None were as skilled as Kalen, and I could overcome them, but it was becoming more and more costly. Besides, I was boring of it.
I had also finally mastered the Transformation spell. One day, in human form, I got the sword that had been bestowed upon me by that honorable warrior after my first caravan heist. I went to Kalen.
“Kalen, I want you to teach me swordsmanship.”
He looked at me for some time, then replied, “Sorcery I can teach you. But a sword? I can hardly hold one properly in my hand!”
But I was not to be dissuaded. “Can we, you think, employ a proper swordsman, then?”
Again a long look as he contemplated. “If you are bent on learning the ways of the sword, I can fetch you a teacher. But it will be very costly, and the man will be of ill-repute.” The question I had must have shown on my face, for he then added, “He will believe us criminals, possibly pirates, held up as we are in this cave. But find one, I can.”
It has always pained me to surrender any portion of my gold, but I wanted this. So I agreed.
“That decided,” Kalen said after we had determined the price we would be willing to pay, “I will ask you to let me divine the magic of your sword? I do not expect it to be terribly powerful, but it is always best to know all we can of the magic we are going to wield.”
So I turned it over to him. The power of the sword was, indeed, not great, but it had been endowed with a second spell, as well. It was not a powerful spell, but one I felt would prove amusing to use!
Within ten days, Kalen returned with my new tutor, a blackguard human named John Nigh. He was quite skilled with the sword, and also proved to be quite the storyteller! I must admit, I was enjoying the time he spent with us, even though he was a tough teacher!
Within weeks, I could properly wield the sword in our faux combats. Within a few months, I had learned a few advanced techniques, including the feint. I was no sword-master, but John told me that most of those carrying swords were likewise not masters. Our training went on another month, with sessions morning and afternoons, and night fighting, as well.
At that point, I felt confident enough to tell Kalen my plan of making a prolonged visit to Cathos.
He was not thrilled; as my friend, he worried for me. He gave me his blessings, though, and immediately began instructing me in the ways of the city. I quickly understood that the complexities of a city were more than I’d realized, so I stayed another two weeks, while Kalen instructed me on the ways of the big city, and John continued working with me to improve my swordsmanship.
Eventually, though, I was ready. It took a bit to convince Kalen not to come with me. John would also stay on, ostensibly as ‘company for Kalen’. I suspected problems with the law in Cathos were more likely his reason, though.
So, on a crisp, autumn day, I set off for the city. John made no comment as to my leaving on foot. I suppose he thought I would use the same magic that Kalen had used to bring him here. But that magic was still beyond me. I would, of course, fly most of the way, in dragon form.
And, having been cooped up for three months, mostly in human form, how wonderful it was to be flying the blue skies again! My wing muscles were stiff, but I soon had them worked out. The trip was invigorating, and I felt an anticipatory excitement like I’d never felt before!
I was going to the Big City, and I was determined to knock ‘em dead!
Friday, September 9, 2016
Darganau: Autobiography of a Dragon
Part XII: Life and Love in the Big City, Part I
I flew above the high cliffs for a while, until I saw some of the Lizard Peoples. Their antics showed I was causing them a lot of stress. I figured it would be better to leave our only neighbors be, so I went out to sea, as well as higher.
I flew until I could just see the city of Cathos, which was located on a high plateau, at the very corner of the cliffs and the sea (two seas, actually, as the Southern Sea met the much larger Sefa-Ré there). I then turned back, landing well out of sight of any prying eyes, magically enhanced or no. I then had to hike the rest of the way.
I had carried with me a large knapsack, filled with gold, two changes of clothes, a writing set (a quill pen, ink well, parchment, blotting paper) and various other tools I might need.
It was a long, tiring walk (I actually felt some pity for the human condition!), but mostly uneventful. Oh, I got startled when a rooster, protecting his nearby brood of hens, charged at me (So glad nobody was around to see me jump like that!), and there was a loud cart filled with a rather large farming family who, loudly rattling by, who asked me if I cared to join them at ‘church’ (I begged off, saying I had to make it to the city before nightfall), but the trip was rather boring.
When I reached the walls of the great city, I was surprised to see a long line of people waiting to enter through the gate. Many were walking, others were in wagons, or pulling carts (both by jackasses and by man-power), and a few were either on top of or leading horses. I shrugged, got in line. It was moving at a steady pace.
The gate was actually a tunnel through the wall, which was much thicker than I would ever have guessed! When I got up to the gate twenty minutes later, a burly guard asked me, “You got a Citizen Card?’ I shook my head. “Step to the door there, and pay your guest tax.” He indicated a door within the tunnel. I went up and, seeing no one, knocked – hoping that was what I was supposed to do.
The upper half of the door opened – surprising me. I hadn’t realized it was a split door! I chastised myself to start paying better attention, as a short, gnomish-looking fellow appeared.
“One day or extended stay?” the gnomish man demanded.
“Ah, extended, I guess.”
“Five sovereigns. If you stay more than two weeks, return to get a new Temporary Resident Validation.” He handed me a parchment. “Your full name goes here. Location of your permanent residence or birthplace, here. Then sign here.”
I took the offered pen and filled the form out where he had indicated. I wondered if all cities demanded this information – but I doubted it. When I finished, I handed back the pen and paper. He took them, but extended his palm. I recalled then the three sovereigns. I took the knapsack off my back, pulled out some gold coins and handed him one. “How many of these?”
He drew a tiny knife from his pocket and scraped at the coin. Then he weighed it in his hand. He then pronounced, “Two.” I handed him a second gold coin. He took a stamp from somewhere below the top door half and a lit candle. He dropped wax onto the form, near the bottom and applied the stamp. He blew on it, then signed his own name at the bottom. He handed back the form, saying, “Always keep your TRV with you. If you lose it, or the seal, return for another. Please enjoy your stay in the Wonderful City of Cathos.”
Just beyond the entry was a circular ‘plaza’. It was large and cobblestoned. About a half dozen vendors hawked food and clothing along the plaza. Seeing how everyone else was dressed, and how odd I must have looked, I purchased myself an outfit, not even bothering to haggle the price.
Around the outer edge of the wide plaza were buildings of stone, each butted up against its neighbors. There were a variety of shops, three or four bars, at least two eateries, and two hotels. I was more famished than tired, but I needed to get a room to store my things. I waked into the best looking of the hotels, got one of their better rooms, and went and dropped off my things. There was water waiting, so I washed up a bit, and changed clothes, too. The Inn had a kitchen, so I went down, found a seat alone, and ordered a meal of mutton, potatoes and biscuits.
My first few days in Cathos, I merely walked around, taking it all in. All the major roads are cobblestone in Cathos, the side-streets hard packed dirt. Most of the public buildings are made of stone, with many trimmed in wood. Housing is wood or stone, depending on your wealth, apparently. Wood is expensive, on top of a rock mountain.
It proved easy for me to blend in. Even though I had slitted irises, no one suspected my true nature. And I could maintain the change for as long as I wished, until I changed back to my real self. I, a dragon, walked freely among these mere humans, and they thought me one of them!
I was surprised that I’d avoided any trouble so far. But these were a disciplined people, and the presence of so many military and policing personnel was clearly a deterrent to trouble makers.
Including me.
I admit to being intimidated by the size of the city, the alien culture, and the presence of so much law enforcement. There was a single guard shack in the center of every other intersection on the main roads! This was in addition to the roaming constables, who always walked in pairs. But remember, I was young. Such things could still cause me pause.
But I would soon grow up quite quickly.
And as I walked into a bar in the northern district of the city, I laid eyes on the agent of my growth.
Her name was Dianna. She was a voluptuous brunette that easily caught the eye of any male that walked in. Her bright, green eyes, such a contrast to her dark skin! – reminded me of small emerald gems. In a word, she was beautiful.
And I, dragon or no, was smitten!
Monday, September 12, 2016
Wednesday, September 14, 2016Monday, September 12, 2016
Darganau: Autobiography of a Dragon
Part XIII: Life and Love in the Big City, Part 2
Her name was Dianna. She was a voluptuous brunette that caught my eye and my heart. Her bright, green eyes - such a contrast to her dark skin! – reminded me of small emeralds.
Beauty has always enticed me. It has also caused me to endanger my very existence. I should have known Dianna would be no exception. Or perhaps I was still too young to realize this.
The pub’s name was The Herald’s Respite. It was in what was called the Business District. In the District, you could find the Assayer’s office, to stake claims and sell your gold to the City-State. There were textile houses, which created the myriad of clothing unique to Cathos and the surrounding lands. There were also two blacksmiths, a leatherworks and a grain mill that milled both wheat and maize. Also located within the District were the ‘offices’ of larger businesses, and other manufacturers. There were only about a dozen shops selling goods, though most only sold things imported from elsewhere. There was one Inn, and two pubs. The other pub, The Ogre’s Grotto, was located just beyond the entry to the District. Like the other five Districts, the Business District was walled off from the others, and entry is made via two stone tunnels through the walls, at opposite ends of the District.
I started spending most evenings at the Herald’s, watching Dianna dance, and listening to her wondrous voice sing. Her dance was provocative. There was no nudity, but the veils that covered her body clung in a manner that had most men howling in admiration.
She paid attention to only one man, though, and I was sorely jealous of him. He was a wisp of a man, not many stones in weight. He had no muscle, to speak of. His bright yellow hair, puffy lips and pale complexion made him pretty – like a woman is pretty! I could not understand why she favored him with a kiss on his cheek after every set, then sat with him the entire evening. From what I gathered listening (surreptitiously) to others, I was not alone on these thoughts.
One evening, perhaps a fortnight after I had started attending her shows, I’d gathered up the courage to speak to her (Imagine, me afraid to talk to a mere human!).
All I really did is walk up to her table, bowed, and said, “Miss Dianna, I just wanted to say how much I have adored listening to your beautiful voice, and to deliver my tip to you personally.” I held out three sovereigns (I had, by necessity, gotten coin of the City-State, of course). As I’d seen him do before, the fop took the coins gently from my hand and laid them down in front of Dianna. I bowed gain, then started to leave.
“Won’t you join us for a drink, Mister…?”
I turned back to the angelic bearer of that golden voice who had deigned to acknowledge my existence, thus lifting my heart to the clouds!
“Menzner, My Lady,” I told her, having been using Laurel’s surname since my arrival in the city, “Dargon Menzner.” I pulled out a chair, carefully, lest I appear too anxious. “It would be my pleasure to join you.” I sat. The tables were small and round, so we were each sitting next to each other. I gave the fop a nod of my head. He gave me a wink in response.
“Interesting name, Dargon,” she told me.
“Call me Darg; all my friends do.”
“Well, thank you, friend. This is my friend, Dale Waycross.” She indicated the fop. “He has quite the crush on you!”
And then I knew why she’d hang out with the likes of him. He was safe. “So you’ve noticed me here before?”
“I always take notice of the big tippers,” she cooed. It was true. I always tipped well. Kalen had told me that good tipping got me the best service, but over-tipping got me used. It didn’t take me long to figure the whole thing out. I mostly learn from observation, and I’d watched how others tipped, and experimented until I felt I had it down.
“Dale is from the northern continent, like yourself.”
“Hmm…” I made a show of looking over my clothing. “And here I thought I was dressed the part of the southerner!”
She laughed lightly. “It is not the clothes, but how you wear them.” She took on a sly grin and added, “But it is your accent gives you away!”
“I have an accent?” That made them both laugh.
We had a wonderful evening after that, talking gaily between her sets. I recall feeling almost… human, and it was not an all-together bad feeling. I said my goodnights at closing, and was treated with a touch of her lips on my cheek.
When Dale tried to offer the same, a glare from me warned him off.
Even in human form, my hearing was far superior to a human’s. As I walked away from the Herald’s, I heard Dianna say to Dale, “You see? I told you he wasn’t your type.”
“Ah well,” said Dale. “If it wasn’t for your charm, my lovely friend, I think I would still have had a chance!”
Dianna replied, “It is I who have been charmed.”
My heart soared! It was all I could do not to skip back to my Inn!
Over the next few months, my courtship of Dianna continued at a slow, but steady, pace. We began to hold hands. Her goodnight buss went to my lips. Soon I dared put my arm around her, and she did not resist. One moonlit night out by the outer city wall, we had our first real, sensual kiss.
I suppose I was in love. It shocked me greater than anyone. Who would have thought I could love a human female? According to my Dragon tome, dragons mate their first meeting, and do not stay together. No love is involved, and the book intimated that the act was more an act of rape, than a partnering.
But the first time Dianna and I made love, in her flat, it was quiet, intimate… and so terribly satisfying for both of us! It was of course my first time, in any form, and I was pleased to be with a woman of some experience. Everything about her was amazing!
On the first day of winter, Dianna asked me to move in with her. We chose her place, because the Inn I called home in the city was far too crowded.
I had spent far less than I’d expected to in the three and a half months I’d been in Cathos, so at the time of my moving in, I decided to splurge. I took Dianna to the best furniture-makers, and ordered several new pieces she admired. Then to the dressmakers, for a new wardrobe for my Princess! Of course, she made me go to the Haberdashers next door, to supplant my own meager wardrobe. I retaliated by making her choose all my new clothes!
I went through a lot of my reserves that day, but I had no worries; I could always make a quick trip back to my and Kalen’s caves, and retrieve more.
As it turned out, it wasn’t necessary to return for more gold. When we were well ensconced in our newly outfitted home, Dianna admitted to me that she owned the pub she sang in. I had no idea! But, I found myself pleasantly surprised. And what was more, she had inherited the carriage and wagon-maker’s shop on the western side of the District! She’d sold that business a few months after her father’s death, for a pretty penny, indeed.
Dianna made me the Pub Manager, with a generous stipend. There was enough money that we did quite well.
Weekdays, we went into the city-proper, taking in a play, visiting the gardens or historical sites (it was a very old city), or did some shopping. Dale usually accompanied us, and I was okay with that. He was a good fellow, who was a true and good friend of Lady Dianna’s. We were always back at the pub a little after dark, though.
Oh, it was a wonderful life! Despite her occupation, I found that Dianna was a well-respected Lay of the community, and we were guests at one city official, Lord, or another. I was enjoying my role as her concubine, and Master of the Herald’s Respite. I was, it seemed, respected in kind.
I had my Lady’s arm during the day, and her favors at night.
I truly considered staying on Cathos forever. Didn’t care for the militaristic aspects of the city, but since I was born afar, I was not susceptible to the military service requirement. It seems the military didn’t trust aliens. Dianna had served her time when she was younger, as a fourteen-year-old Cook’s Apprentice. I thought long on the subject.
I missed my magic studies. I missed attacking caravans, and longed to raid more dragon dens! But when I looked upon my love Dianna, all I wanted was to stay here, with her.
Can you imagine it? A dragon living out his life among humans, in one of the strongest cities in the world? Upon their high outer walls, were huge ballistae, meant to protect the city from any attacks from above: But a Lord of the Sky walked among them! I found myself reveling in that fact – which actually counted against my staying.
Spring came. By this time, I imagine Kalen was quite worried about whether I’d ever return. Ah, he could take my treasures and leave anytime he pleased. Did I not now have the Treasure of my Heart’s Desire?
Every Spring, Cathos celebrated the Festival of the Land. It was a celebration of the new planting season, traditionally held just prior to planting; thus, there was still a bit of nip in the air. There was a two week long fair, jousting and other military style tournaments, as well as open readings in the parks. Artist painted portraits for but a shill, and bards sang their lore songs for anyone with an ear!
I had promised to take Dianna to the fair on its third night. “The first night, not all the booths are up and running, but too quickly, they get bored of the place,” she had explained. So after our midafternoon meal, we dressed in our gayest outfits, and I called for the hansom to be brought around.
After I finished dressing, I heard my Love call for me to hurry. I started toward the door, but caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror, and stopped to admire the image.
I was a handsome bloke. Reddish-brown hair, a skin color nearing golden. My facial skin was flawless, and I looked quite young. I suppose I was young, in dragon years. I had also proven to be an impeccable dresser! In a word, I looked handsome.
Something in the mirror caught my attention. A shadowy, humanoid figure! I spun around to face the intruder – but nothing was there! I used my sight and sense of smell as best I could – but there was just no one there. I turned back to the mirror. For a mere second, the figure was again there in the mirror! But then it was gone.
I checked the mirror thoroughly, front and back. Nothing. I cast a spell that would tell me if the mirror held magic – it did not. I focused on the rest of the room, but the only things magical within it were myself (for the transformation spell was still upon me) and my sword. Feeling suddenly uncomfortable, I lashed scabbard and sword to my waist. I then searched the room fruitlessly, until Dianna’s impatient voice once again called to me.
We ran, laughing, to the hansom. I instructed the Cabbie to use speed, and we were soon racing through the cobblestone streets to the Centre District, where the fair had been set up.
There were gaming booths, clowns, street entertainers, and plenty of food and drink vendors! There were pony rides for the children, and elephant rides as well! It was the first time I’d seen one of these huge beasts, and I must admit, my mouth watered. There was also a half dozen unique mechanical rides, including one that took us high into the sky! This frightened Dianna, and she clung to me hard. It thrilled me to see how she trusted me, and the ride thrilled me – I was in the sky once more!
As the ride ended, though, I was suddenly struck by a great sadness. I had suddenly realized how much I missed flying.
And that made me realize that I could not remain in Cathos much longer. My heart began to break.
“What is wrong, Dear?” Dianna asked.
I set my face aright. “Nothing, my love. I guess the ride has just left me a little queasy!”
“Aww,” she cooed, putting her hand to my face and squeezing to pucker my lips. “My poor, queasy man!” she teased, but softened it by placing a loving kiss upon my puckered lips.
We walked on, down the main thoroughfare of the fair. My eyes spotted a shadow to our left, and I turned abruptly toward it.
“Dear?”
I caught a glimpse of a worker rounding the corner behind one of the large tents, his shadow following him closely. I chuckled at myself. “Sorry, Dear. I thought I saw hat drink what started the fight the other night.”
She gave me a playful punch to my shoulder. I pretended it hurt horribly! “No fighting tonight, Love,” she remonstrated softly. “And no thoughts of work! We’re here to have fun!”
“Yes, Ma’am,” I chuckled.
“Oh, look! Canton dolls!” She raced to a nearby booth, a larger one, and I dutifully followed.
“’Canton dolls’?” I inquired.
“Oh, yes!” She seemed downright giddy! “They’re dolls that bend at the joints; all the rage when I was a child!”
“Here,” said the vendor, holding one of them out to us. “Take a look!”
I took the doll and examined it. It did indeed bend at the ankles, knees, hips, neck, shoulders, elbows and wrists. It was made of polished wood, and had soft, blonde hair.
“That’s real,” he said. I gave him an inquiring look. “The hair. It’s real.” I suppose I’d been rubbing the hair.
“Do you want it, Love?”
“Oh, can I have one, Dear?” she asked excitedly. When I smiled and nodded, she took the doll from my hands and turned quickly back to the vendor.
There was a conversation going on at the booth beside us, though at the moment, I didn’t know why I was subconsciously listening to it.
Vendor: “Yes, my dear; you’ll be able to see the rainbow in all its true wonder!
“I want the darker skinned one, up there,” my Love told the vendor. “She has skin the color of my Most Dear Love!”
Customer: “How does it work?”
Vendor: “Straight light is refracted, Refracted light is straightened!”
Customer: “Well, I don’t understand all that!”
“It’s Fifty-five sovereign, Ma’am.”
“My gosh! I didn’t realize it would be so expensive!”
“It’s a Work of Art, Ma’am; created by the Master Horum, himself!”
“Indeed?” Turning to me she said, “Darling, Master Horum is the greatest doll-maker in all the lands!”
“Look,” the vendor said, showing us the bottom of the doll’s left foot, “The Master’s mark!”
Vendor: “Here; why don’t you try it? The pictures behind me, unclear now, will become clear!”
“Well, if it’s a Master’s work, we must have it!” I declared, and stepped forward. As I pulled out my purse to pay, Dianna clapped enthusiastically, then grabbed my arm and planted a kiss on my cheek. I laughed as I handed the sovereigns over.
A woman screamed. Loud, shrill, and long.
Time seemed, to me, to stand still. Many eyes were turning in our general direction. Not ten feet away, the woman at the next both was pointing directly at me.
“DRAGON!!”
Darganau: Autobiography of a Dragon
Part XIV: Losses
I had just paid for the Canton doll.
A woman screamed. Loud, shrill, and long.
Time seemed, to me, to stand still. Many eyes were turning in our general direction. Not ten feet away, the woman at the next both was pointing directly at me.
“DRAGON!!”
A startled vendor looked to where she was pointing – me – then down at the ground. He knelt to pick up the prism the woman had just dropped.
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a shadow pass near to us and this time, there was no workman to account for it.
The vendor stood. I wanted to run, but neither my feet nor my brain would function! He held the prism to his own eye, and looked at me.
He fumbled with his pocket, finally pulling out a whistle.
Stop him! My mind screamed; but it would not tell me how.
The man put the whistle to his lips. He blew, and the resulting sound matched the shrill voice of the woman!
“Honey!” Dianna squeezed my arm hard. “What’s going on? What are they saying?”
Inanely, I only shook my head.
“Let’s get out of here!” she hissed.
Yeah, my mind told me, that would be a good idea. But still my legs would not respond.
A constable arrived, and I found my voice – sort of. “Constable! That woman is hysterical! You should lead her out of here, lest she starts frightening the children!” I felt pretty proud of how I’d turned the tables, but as I spoke, the vendor had handed him the prism, and pointed at me, while mumbling something I failed to catch.
The constable brought the prism to his eye. When he lowered it, his countenance had changed to shock. Two mire constables arrived just then, and the first instructed them to bind me.
I suppose I could have fought them off then and there. I should have done so! But my mind was reeling. All I could think about was I’m going to lose Dianna! And I just wasn’t ready for that. If I revealed myself, I knew she’d be lost to me.
“Don’t worry, My Love,” I tried to assure her as they clasped chains on my wrists. “The vendor’s toy must be malfunctioning. We’ll get this all cleared up in no time!” But my beautiful Dianna cried on, as they led me away. “I love you, Dinna!” I called to her. “We’ll be together again soon!”
Oh, how I deplore my saying those words! Not because they were not true – they were; but because of the unintended consequence of them! Oh, how I’ve cursed myself, so many times, for that stupidity. I should have known better.
They took me to a stone door that looked as if it opened to a five-by-five-foot room. My jailors unlocked the door, revealing a staircase, leading down into the stone mountain, itself! This led to a smallish room, where another constable sat at a desk. Without questions, this jailor stood and unlocked an iron-bound door behind him. I was led through this, and placed in a cell with stone walls and an iron door. This would be my home for the next two weeks!
Two weeks without seeing my Dianna. It was torture!
On the morning after my incarceration, I was visited by a tall human female. She was accompanied by two gaolers, wielding metal-tipped spears, and a mousey looking man carrying a pen and inkwell, and a scroll case tied at his hip. She wore two robes, the top gray one, a longer red one beneath. She bore no less than three necklaces, a dull-colored bracelet on each wrist, and a gold ring with a huge, dull green gem. She carried an ornate wooden staff that was a foot taller than her, and silver-topped.
When the door was opened, the two gaolers entered quickly, moving toward me with spears thrust forward so that I was forced to back up until I was pinned up against the wall. The Lady and her scribe entered next. The scribe quickly took a parchment out of his scroll case, sat on the floor (there was neither desk nor chair in that austere cell, and only a bucket for my waste), and began to write.
I am Lady Hephzibah,” she introduced herself. Her voice was deep (for a woman) and chilling. “I am the Matre Dominânt for the city of Cathos.” When I gave her a look to indicate I did not understand, she said, “I am the Head of the Church of Cason. It is my duty to discern your innocence, or guilt.” She stepped forward, and the two guards shuffled to make room for her between them, never moving the tips of their spears, which pressed against my person.
The Priestess stretched forth her hand, and chanted words that sounded neither arcane – nor non-magical. I saw a glow about her hand, that then poured over me. I felt nothing. The glow dissipated as she lowered her hand. “Gaoler Fenner!” she called out. Presently, the constable who’d sat at the desk the previous night arrived and entered, carrying a two-by-one-foot box. He stepped right up to Lady Hephzibah.
“Take those chains off him,” she commanded as she relieved him of the oblong box.
The turnkey did as he was told. When he stepped out of the way, I saw the Lady step up with another set of cuffs! I had the idea of quickly breaking her neck, and I could have done so, easily! (If I had, I would have saved the world a lot of aggravation much later on; but that’s another story altogether.) I didn’t, though, and humbly allowed her to clasp this newer, obviously more expensive, set of cuffs.
She stepped back and said, “These will prevent you from changing back. The spell upon them negates your use of magic.”
I was stunned. I was tempted to see if it were true: But if I had changed just then, I would not only have crushed to death everyone in the room, but myself, as well!
After a fortnight, I was told I would be given trial and sentence the following morning. I found myself anxious and excited. Not about the so-called trial, but that I would see My Love Dianna! It had been two excruciating weeks, not being able to see her! I was anxious to sleep; to both dream of her (I knew I would), and that the morning come quickly!
And I did fall asleep fairly early. But during the night, I was unexpectedly awakened.
I roused quickly, realizing someone was in the cell with me!
“Now, you stay back, now!” An older gentleman. The cell door was open, and he stood not six feet from me, a mop in one hand, a bucket of water to his side.
“A janitor? I asked, disbelievingly.
He nodded his head, a bit manically. “The Gaoler told me you won’t wake!
I laughed at the idiocy of it. I held up my hands to display my restraints. “You have nothing to worry about, Old Timer. I’ve tried, but can’t get these off!” I had, too. But my magic would not work, and - despite having greater strength than a human even in their form – I had failed to rid myself of them.
The man’s eyes widened as he looked at the cuffs. “Are those - ? May I look at them?”
I shrugged, stretched my hands out. He hesitantly, nervously approached. He finally took my hands in his (his were cold, like most humans, especially the elderly) and looked closely at the chains. His eyes widened even more, and cursed (I think) in an odd tongue (the city had lots of nationalities, many still speaking their original tongues). He looked at me, seemed to become even more flummoxed, and dropped my hands.
“You recognize the metal?”
He nodded his head. “In my youth, I did some adventurin’. Had some success, until my group was routed and robbed of ever’thing we had.” He gave a scathing look at the mop. I felt a twang of pity for him.
“So, what is it? It’s pretty, but I’ve not seen this metal before.”
“Few have,” he agreed. “The dwarves call it Mythrinil, which humans have shortened to mythral. It his highly valued. The chain you wear could prolly be sold for tens of thousands of gold coins!”
I looked at the chain again. I doubted I’d be able to sell it; it was just too beautiful!
“Well, good luck ta ya!” the old man told me, as he mopped himself out of the cell. He closed the door, and I heard it lock in place.
I laughed at the absurdity again, shaking my head. I could sense the sun was about to rise, so I didn’t bother to even try to go back to sleep. They soon brought me fresh clothing – prison garb, but without holes, and water and a towel. I washed up with the cool water, and changed into the clean uniform. I wetted my hair and ran my hands through it, patting it down.
I wanted to look good for when Dianna saw me.
I was soon led out of the cell, up the stairs and outside. I feigned the sun hurting my eyes (having been warned by the gaoler that it would), as I was guided through a tunnel of well-wishers, who kindly threw rotten fruits and vegetables at me, and called me names (chief among them dragon). I could have told them I wasn’t actually hungry, but I was busy searching the crowds for My Love.
Presently, we arrived at Town Square, only a few dozen feet from where I’d been apprehended. My heart sank when I saw they’d erected gallows. Was I actually going to be executed!? I wasn’t afraid of dying; but in human form? Oh, Lords! Until that moment, I hadn’t really thought I’d be executed. I guess I hadn’t thought about what the punishment would be at all!
They led me up the steps and stood me in front of the rope noose. I desperately scanned the crowd for a glimpse of Dianna. One more look upon her lovely face; to see her love for me; then I could accept death. But I could not find her.
“Dargon Menzner,” I could not see him, but obviously a Crier was below the gallows, addressing the crowd. “Having been found guilty of being of the demon race of dragons,” at which point I was the recipient of more bad fruit and choruses of boos, “you are hereby sentenced to be hanged until you die.”
Then suddenly my Nemesis was there. “Dargon Menzner,” her guttural voice shouted, and a hundred men, women and children moved away from her, leaving Lady Hephzibah in a thirty feet-wide circle only she and a hooded individual stood in. “Corruptor of women,” she continued. “This woman’s trespass might have been forgiven,” woman? “for a demon’s power is corruption, and a mere woman can be susceptible to your evil ways.
“But she is with your issue, and such a progeny cannot be permitted to be born!”
Progeny?
She removed the hood. It was my Dianna.
Lady Hephzibah took her by her dark hair, and pulled her head back.
My anger was stirred. Instinctively, I growled. The Executioner heard me, and his eyes widened. I could smell his fear, but I cared not.
“Admit your sin, Dianna Mueller, and beg forgiveness, to meet your Maker with honor and innocence!” the Priestess shouted.
For an instant, I thought Dianna would do as Hephzibah commanded. She opened her mouth to speak.
“I LOVE YOU DARGON, MY DRAGON LOVER!”
My heart soared, but for a moment.
For Hephzibah raised her hand, and in it, was a silver dagger! She placed it at the side of My Love’s neck and, without hesitation, dragged it the full length of her beautiful neck!
My eyes widened. My mind reeled. The crowd cheered.
And My Love, Dianna Mueller, bled out quickly. She offered me her sweet smile before all life drained from her.
I growled again; and this time, no one present could have failed to hear it. It was loud, and my aura of fear accompanied it.
They ran, these puny humans. These disgusting, vile creatures! They fled mindlessly, in all directions!
I was growing, but I did not question how it was happening. The binds on my hands squeezed hard; drawing my blood; but finally the links broke!
Head raised, I howled at the sky. The gallows collapsed under my weight. I stretched out my wings, stiff from non-use, and wood splintered and flew. I saw the Executioner beneath me, his chest penetrated by a length of broken wood. Again I raised my head, bellowed, and summoned my flame!
While it still blew, I lowered my head, and flame burnt stragglers to cinders!
Never had I felt such anger. Never had I known such fury! Or pain…
Again I summoned flame, and again I burnt all and anything I saw! I walked toward the exit of the Centre District, deeper into the city. The passage was too small for me to pass through, so I put my claws to either side of the stone entrance. Dozens of the putrid humans were crowded inside the tunnel, unable to clear it quickly enough, because their panic had caused them to clog up the passage!
It required all my strength, but with a roar, the stone broke! The rubble of rock fell onto the humans, crushing most. Those that survived were crushed as I walked over the mound of bodies and stone!
Again and again, I let loose my flame, burning buildings and humanity without prejudice. When a handful of brave soldiers challenged me, I scooped three up into my maw, crunching the life out of them, and swallowing them, armor and all!
At the Western District, I espied the Inn I had spent so long in. I went to it, punched it. And punched it again. Wood, stone and bodies flew. I walked straight into the building, clawing down any obstructions in my way. The screams and the panic only fed my fury. A woman, running naked down the leaning and devastated upper hall, I grabbed up in my teeth, crunched down once, then swallowed.
I continued all the way through the Inn, and the sound of her collapse behind me was great! Now only the outer City Wall stood between me and the Great Plain. I bellowed my fury again, and turned in a close circle, burning everything in my sight!
Then I climbed upon the wall. I perched upon its top, and gazed out upon the Plains. My fury calmed a little, but was renewed when a bolt of ice struck me!
I turned to see two people: A man in the robes of a wizard… and Hephzibah!
I snarled at them. My flame flew; but some sort of invisible barrier blocked it! The flames passed them both by, to either side!
The wizard incanted, and a bolt of energy shot from his hands, striking me in the chest! The energy infused my entire body with pain!
The Priestess waved her hands, and a million thorns, it seemed, assailed me! My scales stopped most, but many penetrated, and I knew I’d taken serious damage!
“My Lords!”
To my amazement, a dirty beggar placed his hands upon the lip of the top of the wall, and pilled himself painfully up!
“You sure do choose the most inconvenient roosts, Dragon!”
I blinked in surprise. It was the janitor from the gaol!
More darts assailed me – but the failed to penetrate the janitor, seemingly stopped by an unseen shield!
The janitor raised his arms. I looked, and the wizard had his raised too! A ball of blue energy appeared between the wizard’s open palms; a pulsating, bright white light between the janitor’s!
The janitor’s spell struck first: A bolt of white-hot lightning forth and struck the wizard straight in the chest! The wizard flew backward, crashing into the stone wall of a nearby building! His crumpled body fell to the ground.
I saw fear fill Hephzibah’s face. She turned and ran.
I started toward her, but the janitor’s hand on my leg somehow restrained me! “Let’s be gone, dragon, before more come. There are powerful people present in the city!”
“But, Hephzibah! The bitch is getting away!” I started forward again, yet the arm once more restrained me!
“No, Darganau!” The voice had changed – to that of Kalen! “Now is not the time to take your revenge on her; that day will come. For now, be satisfied to have taken your revenge on the city itself!”
I hesitated. Kalen was here. My need to destroy the witch was great; I was torn!
“You’ll have to let me ride you, friend!” Kalen said. “We need to be away, and quick!”
I heard the sound of mailed warriors, approaching quickly. Before I’d actually decided, Kalen was quickly climbing onto my back! I turned, and once again gazed out upon the wide plain.
I leapt.
My wings beat furiously. My muscles worked feverishly. Still, my belly hit the ground before I finally caught the wind, and soared upward toward the clouds!
I flew hard and fast, away forever from Cathos, City of the Damned. I looked back once, and smiled wide to see her burning.
My fury was still string, but focused now; focused upon Hephzibah. If it took many years (and in fact it would), I knew I would have my revenge!
Darganau: Autobiography of a Dragon
Part XV: Moving On
We flew from Cathos westward, over the plains. We took a straight line back to our cavernous residence. There were a lot of questions running through my head, all involving Kalen. I held them for when we were back in the caves, though. Meanwhile, the questions kept the heart-wrenching agony of my loss at bay.
We landed in front of the entrance, and Kalen slid off my back. To my surprise, John Nigh, my swordsmanship tutor, came out to greet us.
“Welcome back, you two!”
“John stayed on to help me with things,” Kalen explained. He’s quite handy! He built a collapsible desk for me!”
I transformed into my human form; the entrance was looking tight. “Hello again, John. I’m glad you could be of assistance.” He bowed. I turned to Kalen and said, “Would you mind making a bit to eat? A human meal will be fine. I’m going to wash up and put on some clothes.” I passed them and went to my cave. I cast a silence spell, went and sat behind some water barrels, and had a long, good cry. I was afraid if I’d done so in dragon form, I might have brought the caves down in my anger! As it was, I put a few cracks in the cave wall.
After a while, I calmed, washed up and dressed, then went to the front cave again. The twosome had cooked a rather extravagant meal of ox-steaks, spuds and two vegetables. There was also a strong mead, which rivaled the best we had at the Herald’s Respite!
“How did we get the ale?” I asked.
“Turns out,” Kalen explained, “John here is a fine brewer, as well as a swordsman!”
I took another long drink. “You make a fine ale, John!”
“Thank you, Lord Darganau!” It was the first time I’d been called that – and I quite enjoyed it!
After dinner, we sat around the fire, smoking some tobacco Kalen said he had purchased in Cathos. The heat felt good in my throat.
“You came to my gaol cell,” I stated. He merely nodded. “Why didn’t you just take me out of Cathos then?”
“Because you were in love. You see, I knew something you didn’t; Dianna had also been arrested. I had been assured the penalty for her would be no more than a public humiliation, and possibly a large fine. But I knew, if we left then, they would blame her, as an accomplice.
“The problem was I could not find out where she was being held!”
“You negated the magic of the chains.”
Again he nodded. “I knew the penalty for you was death; and Hephzibah is a powerful creature. I was expecting to be back in time, but just in case I wasn’t, I gave you a fighting chance.”
“You could have told me!”
“I was afraid you’d try to escape at once.”
“Were you at the gallows?”
“I was, but I’d arrived a bit late. I’d finally learned where Dianna was being held, and I went there, intending to spirit her away, then you.
“But she was already gone, and I made a guard admit she’d been taken to the would-be hanging, by Hephzibah. I hurried, but arrived only as that Witch was declaring her sentence.”
Kalen took on a look of sorrow and said, his lips quivering, “I am sorry, my friend. I had no idea she was going to… to… do what she did.”
I sighed heavily, suddenly shaking with anger. But I took deep breaths, and calmed once more.
“When she murdered Dianna,” Kalen continued, “I knew you were about to explode. I stepped back a bit, to where Hephzibah’s two Personal Guards were standing. As the gallows collapsed, I turned to the guards and neutralized them with a simple stun spell. They are actually quite superior warriors!”
[I must interject here that, though I didn’t know it at the time, a stun spell is simple; but a mass stun, the only way to stun more than one individual at a time, is quite a bit more powerful!]
“I then followed,” Kalen continued, “but you were moving fast – and I had to avoid the fires and flying stone you were causing! And might I say, your passage through the Inn as quite impressive!
“Anyway, I caught up to you at the wall, of course. I used a spider spell to climb the wall. You know the rest, of course.”
I nodded my head, then. “How long had you been in the city?”
“Only a full day, before you saw me in the gaol. I have been checking on you irregularly, by divination. As soon as I saw you were in gaol, I came to the city. I only had to walk around a short time to hear the gossip. I began to act at once.”
I thought about all he’d said. I truly didn’t like been scryed on without my knowledge, but I found myself grateful he had. I am not sure I could have defeated both the wizard and the witch when I was on that wall.
“Thank you, Kalen. You are a good friend.”
“Thank you. There was another reason I was almost late to join you on the wall: I just had to recover something you had left behind in Centre District!”
He turned and reached down for an oblong case. He opened it and brought out the busted chain.
“You saved it.”
“It is too value to just leave for anybody. It wasn’t difficult to find.”
“Is… is that…” John stumbled with the words.
“Yes John,” Kalen told him, “it’s mythril. The most valuable metal the dwarves have ever found.”
“And, might I add, one of the best metals for magicking!” He handed it to me. “It is yours, Darganau, to add its beauty to your already impressive collection!”
I could only nod. It was, indeed, a beautiful metal.
“Now, I am afraid,” Kalen said, “I have more bad news.”
Both John and I stared up at him.
“We have to move. No, there can be no argument,” he said, forestalling my argument. “I must tell you that, though you gave Cathos no less than she deserved for housing the Witch-Priest Hephzibah, they will be after us, now.
“If it were just Hephzibah, still we would be in grave danger; she is most powerful! She was, fortunately, caught off-guard, too reliant on your restraints. She will not underestimate us again.
“But the wizard we met is even more powerful than her. He is, in fact, more powerful than me. I caught him a lucky blow; but I did not seriously hurt him. I only bought us the time we needed to get away.
“Cathos has some of the most powerful warriors in the world. Their army, man-to-man, is probably superior to any in the world. And Hephzibah’s personal guard is extremely well-trained.
“The Lizard men are not our allies. They will have no qualms of revealing our location. This is why we must leave.”
“Where shall we go?” I asked.
“There is a whole continent, larger than the one you were born on, yet to see!”
At this, I smiled. I had been longing to see more of the southern world.
“John and I shall go at once to Jasper, the smallest and most western of the three cities on the Great Plains. We will procure two horses, so we more easily keep up with you, Darganau.”
I shook my head. “Get three. I shall ride with you.”
It was Kalen’s turn to smile. “In that case,” he slapped his knee and stood, “Let’s get ready at once! We can ride south out of Jasper.”
And so we made ready. Kalen showed me a secret magic of his, causing what looked like an open scar to appear in the air at his chest-level. He had me look inside; and I saw enough to know why he never had need to steal my treasures!
It was an extradimensional ‘room’, into which we put the chests and the bulk of our gear. He even gave me the password to open it, “lest something happen to me.”
In the main room, Kalen had myself and John take his hands. John, unfamiliar with magic, was quite excited. Kalen spoke arcane words for nearly a full minute, then I felt a moment of disorientation; dizziness. When next I opened my eyes, I was standing on soft grass.
I looked, and in front of me, I could just make out the great rock edifices we had a moment before stood at the top of. Behind me, I saw, turning, an open city, quite different than any I had ever seen; even more alien than Cathos!
I smiled nearly as wide as John who, in his excitement, could hardly contain himself.
“Gentlemen?” Kalen addressed us, “Welcome to the city of my birth. Though it has been decades since I’ve been here, I hope you’ll allow me to show you around?”
And so, we started into the city, and the next leg in my journey through this life.
Monday, September 19, 2016
Darganau: Autobiography of a Dragon
Monday, September 19, 2016
Darganau: Autobiography of a Dragon
Part XVI: Alien Lands
“This is Jasper!” my friend Kalen said with enthusiasm as we entered via the main road. “Named after the Founder and Once King, Jasper Sennecal. His kingdom barely stretched a hundred miles beyond this city, but his people loved and honored him!”
It was all strange, to me. The garb the citizens of Jasper wore were simple robes, of varying shades of brown, blue, or green. Red was forbidden to be worn by any but the City Mahen, who were the Constables, and exerted much authority over the conduct of the citizens. Kalen warned us not to mess with them, and not to stare at them. Though I was tempted to test them, I was actually tired of fighting humans, and couldn’t get up the enthusiasm to do so.
There were animals everywhere. Cattle, horses and mules on the main streets (the cows running free!), canines, domesticated (sort of) cats and chickens on the side streets! The city stank, but not of excrement; more like an order of sweat (though in some of the side streets, the strong order of chicken waste was prominent).
Children ran about unescorted, the younger ones often nude. The city was obviously overpopulated!
We stayed in a rather nice Inn, and ate at a nearby eatery that Kalen said he’d eaten at in his youth. The place offered a local-only menu. The food was quite spicy, but the under-taste was quite pleasing! The mead was also spicy, and de from a vine fruit called a pumpkin. Quite unusual!
Kalen took us around the city during the following day, and we purchased horses at the local livestock market for good prices. At the end of our tour, Kalen brought us to his birth home. His parents had been deceased a number of years, but the mud-brick home was still in use, by a family he did not know. He was looking very nostalgic, and even gave the family the gold they needed to pay for a much needed roof repair.
We spent another night in Jasper. In the morning, we purchased a mule, and loaded him with supplies. Before noon, we started south, out of the city.
Our travel through the Great Plains was pleasant enough. There was incident with a lion: A female started to shadow us, slowly but steadily getting closer to us. I was sorely tempted to see how we’d fare as a team against her, but Kalen convinced me it wouldn’t be worth the time. So, I approached the lioness, who became agitated as I closed. Just before she would have leapt to attack, I exuded my aura. She immediately turned tail and ran.
Ah, well.
It was almost a fortnight before we reached the woods, called the Samian Forest. The day before, when we’d come within sight of the sudden line of the forest, I’d changed back to dragon form, and flew over a good portion of the woods. It became thicker than I would have thought, and all I knew for sure was there was a large bird population, many of varying colors.
The terrain as virtually impossible to see, and though I heard plenty of sounds from below, I couldn’t make a guess at what particular creatures I was hearing. So disturbed was I by the closeness of the forest, I offered to fly the other two to the other side.
“No, Darganau,” Kalen told me, “There is a city at the very edge of the forest we must enter and get new supplies before continuing, and you could not fly beyond without being spotted, or setting us down in the terrain we will need those supplies for.”
Well, that wasn’t good news, for me, anyway! I wasn’t feeling good about this portion of the trip at all.
Again, I didn’t know the term of it at the time, but I was feeling the first effects of a case of claustrophobia – which would only get worse!
We started through the Samian – on my part, with trepidation. There was a semi-trail through the forest, barely discernable, save that Kalen still remembered traversing it, though it had been years. It wasn’t so bad at first, but the deeper we got, the closer the forest became. It became darker, and I felt like we were going deeper into a trap, with no way out!
I know; it’s odd that I, who had lived his life in the close quarters of caves and caverns, could feel like this. But this land was alien. These weren’t the comforting, rugged walls of stone that gave me a comforting feeling of safety. These walls were alive, with things I could only imagine – and my imagination seemed to be on overdrive!
Near the center of the forest, it had become so dark, and the noises so prominent, I desired greatly to return to dragon form. If I had, though, I would have been crushed by the evergreens that literally filled the forest!
As I pondered how to escape this dark prison, I was startled by two loud shrieks, and the appearance of twin monsters stepping out of the darkness!
No matter I claimed, for years after, that my reaction as purely instinctive, I’ve come to terms that the ‘instinct’ came from sheer terror. I had not yet grown into the egotistical monster I am now, and that my younger self was subject to such feelings of fear long disturbed me.
The creatures were like bears, but their heads were like giant birds, with beaks long and sharp! Even Kalen had never seen their kind before. As they appeared, I let go with a yell (scream?), and fire flew from my gaping mouth! The beasts were covered in the flame, their fur (and feathers?) ignited, and they fled back into the forest.
Flame licked at the underbrush, then roared to life. I had ignited a forest fire!
We had to flee, continuing south, but at a run. The fire seemed to be giving chasing – and gaining ground!
Kalen stopped suddenly and turned back toward the conflagration. I stopped with him. He cast a spell, and a great wind blew toward the flames. It indeed pushed them back, but it also stirred them up, making them worse, and climbing the trees!
“Go!” I told him. Hurry while you have the reprieve; I’ll keep the flames at bay for as long as I can!”
What, you think I suddenly got brave? Well. I guess I did. Of course, if I thought it out, I might not have said it. Just then, however, the flames had chased away the darkness, and the forest suddenly didn’t look so confining. And fire? It was no danger to me, so it gave me no pause.
Kalen and John turned and fled farther south.
I shifted enough to create wings just long enough to be able to fan within these confines. I began flapping them (adjusting for the needed increase of muscle I’d forgotten), pushing the wind, and thus the flames, back.
Eventually, the fire rounded the corners of the wind I was creating, and quickly fell upon me. I laughed. No, I roared with laughter! And, since my fanning was doing no more, I turned south and walked on, the ever-present flames warming me and giving me comfort and confidence. I shifted my wings back into arms.
Of course, I’d made a bad forest fire only worse. Fortunately, there was a clearing, and the fire seemed to turn and follow the thicker undergrowth west.
When I caught up with Kalen and John, Kalen told me a human logging camp was building a break to keep the fire heading west, where it would find a woodland river, which should stop it.
I really didn’t care. All I wanted was out of the once again darkening forest.
And we did, finally, come out of that evil place. Never would I walk among those trees again – though I have had occasions to fly over it, since.
Terrawood was a small city on the very edge of the Samian Forest, just as Kalen had said – though we came out nearly two miles east of it! We entered the quaint, peaceful place, and quickly found an Inn, had dinner and drank much ale.
I was not able to sleep that night, and Kalen found me near daybreak, on my room’s balcony, which faced south.
“What is it, my friend?” he asked.
I nodded my head southward. “What is out there? I smell… dryness.”
He chuckled. “Is that all? You merely smell the Holy Desert, largest on all the planet! We are but a dozen miles from it!”
But I shook my head. “A desert. That is only as I figured. But no; that is not what has me worried to sleeplessness. There is something… something… else out there. Something my senses tell me we should avoid.
“But what my heart tells me we cannot.”
Kalen sat down next to me. “That worries me, my friend. Unfortunately, from here, our options are nominal. The desert is very wide, and there are no towns to either side of it. We either go through the Great Holy Desert, or we return the way we came.”
I vigorously shook my head. I will never reenter those woods!”
“Then forward it is,” Kalen said. “I am sorry I cannot offer you solace, Darganau, but in the few excursions I’ve made into the desert, we met no worse than poisonous scorpions, and unbearable heat.”
“We must go in,” I acknowledged, “but something awaits us there, Kalen. I turned to look straight into his eyes.
“Something awaits us, and we might not all survive it!”
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