Night and Day

Prologue

It was a sunshiny day.  William wondered what crowd could be on the town square... although he had some guesses. Southbridge was famous for it’s riots, or protests... or both, which happened quite a few times. He wondered though what topic could have remained to protest for. He went closer to hear the crowd more clearly.
-We are tired of those fools!- one shouted.
-Yes! AWAY WITH THEM!- another replied.
There was nothing special so far, which William could have noticed. It seemed to be a simple and plain protest. William could even risk that it was a boring one.
-Into the fire them, which they brought here!- a voice added.
-With their lizards also!- many voices shouted together.
William could now get the point. This was a protest against the Order of the Flame. Now, with the questions of his curiosity were answered, he left quickly. He did not want to be seen in a protesting crowd. He could not stop wondering why did this protest break out though. The Order was never ever recognised as an enemy. It was rather thought to be a landlord. Like the many landlords in the area, the Order only appeared where a fight was. The came fast with their dragons, and ended the fight hastily - usually killing everyone. This wasn’t a too popular side of them, no doubt; however, with time they were recognised as a simple landlord - one who can do anything without risking any punishment. Noone had any problems with the Order so far. Or noone dared to have. The two was quite the same in results, anyway, as William thought.

He began to walk a bit quicker. He wanted to get back to his home... it was about to rain soon. The black clouds were rising... the usual weather of these hill-lands. Finally, after a few good minutes of walking, he arrived home. Just as he opened the door and got in, the rain began to pour. William smiled, and took his black leather coat off. Then he sat down, took a bottle of whisky, and began to drink. Only slowly and in little bits, as he did not wanted to get drunk... he liked the taste of the drink though.

He heard some banging on the door.

With some faint curses that who could be in such weather, he opened the door. He was more astonished when he saw two local militia standing in the door, in front of him.
-Good day- William began -come in.-
-No, but you come with us. The court wishes to see you, William- a militia replied on a stiff voice. William was astonished. What did the court want of him?
-But for what reason?- he asked. He still hoped that this only a joke. A bad joke...
-You have no right to ask. Just follow us- the answer came. Since all ways to refuse this seemed to be useless, he decided to go. He took his coat, and walked out into the rain, following the militias. A bad joke, he told himself again. Why would anyone dare to claim anything on him? And what could they claim?
They arrived to the court’s building in a few minutes, as it was not really far away from William’s home. It was a typical government office building - it was looking old, dirty and perhaps even deserted. The windows were small and dirty, the door was an old oak one. Even if it once had some painting on it, it must have lost it long now without any reminder. One of the militias went inside, and soon came out.
-You can go - he said to William. William nodded, and went inside.

There air was cold inside, even colder than outside, as William could feel. He could not notice many people inside. The court was only there, no others. And now him, he sadly added. The oak door closed behind him with a loud banging - the case began.
-William Seymour - the Council Elder began - noble of our city, son of the once lived Edward Seymour. You now stand before us, the Court of Stonebridge. Swear by the Almighty that you tell the truth, and only the truth, no matter what ask and demand. Swear you will help only the case of Justice, and you will not try to force us make wrong decisions.
This was the usual beginning, William knew. However, this sounded more... special. This time he was charged.
-I swear - he said loudly.
-Very well, let’s begin then - the Elder nodded and went on - you are charged with the cause of today’s rioting.
William astonished. He first thought he heard something wrong, or someone else was charged - but after a few moments he realised that what his ears told him is true. He and the rioting! He only saw it!
-I deny this! I only saw the rioting! - He shouted back. He wondered why he shouted, though. “I fear” he realised. Although he admitted that he should do not fear, since there was no reason for the Court to find him guilty.
-Many people saw you there. And we same witnesses as well - the Elder told him. William shrugged. Witnesses?
-But... this is impossible! I was NOT there! I did not do anything! - He shouted, and shook his head. “This can’t be true” he told himself.
-Any witnesses or evidences you can tell for your defence? - The Second Elder asked.
-No, but - William wanted to say, but the Elder did not wait him to tell the sentence.
-Then we find you guilty in the sin of rioting! We exile you from this kingdom! We also punish you to loose all your wealth, expect what you bear this moment, and a sword of your choosing. You may never return, and nor you are a noble any longer!

He could not believe it. No, this could not happen to him. Maybe to someone else, maybe to his neighbour. But not to him. The militias came in for him, and dragged him out. He began to walk towards his house, but he could not see the road or the street. He was just walking blind. He felt empty. From the house he took his finest blade, and the two militias told him that it is now time to leave. He sighed, and nodded.

He was leaving the city, when he noticed the Elder.
-HEY! Liar! - William shouted - Do not forget me! Know, that one day you shall kneel at my feet!
He got a harsh laughter from the crowd as an answer. When the big iron gates of the city closed behind him, he knew that he did not joke.

One day they will.
-FOR GOD I TAKE THIS OATH! - A shout filled the air.

1. 	Ambush!
The roads of Deran Katek

The sun was sighing brightly, and a faint breeze moved the leaves. William knew this place quite well... The Eastern Hills, or “Deran Katek” - as the dwarves called it. It is a big and quiet forest in the middles of the lower section of the hills. Although being an originally dwarf region, now it was under elf control.  Learin, the current leader of the Elven High Council launched an well-organised attack upon the dwarven outposts, and claimed the land here. Now, walking in the forest, William could not spot any signs of the once great battles. They were almost forgotten.

William was walking with heavy steps. He was walking for days, was living on what he could hunt for himself. This was not a life of a noble’s deserve, he had to admit. For him - for a lord - it was unusual to do this, and it was something humiliating also. He was not a peasant to make such things... he could not do anything else though, if he wanted to avoid starving to death. Thoughtless he walked on the road, when he suddenly noticed strange noises. He speeded his movement up, and saw a pack of black cloaked men fighting... he wondered what could be happening. Besides fighting. He took his sword into his hands, and walked closer.
What are you doing there, he wanted to ask, but a cloaked man jumped at him before he could say a word. The attack took him with surprise, and both of them fell onto the ground, since William was holding his attacker’s robe. He quickly jumped back and rose to his foot. Quickly and lucky, he jumped aside, and the blade which was thrown at him only cut his skin. He jumped into the air, and kicked the other fighter in face. The blow was hard and obviously unexpected, so the other fell back. William quickly took a little blade from his boot - not a usual weapon for a lord, but a good ally in a fight - and ran at the attacker, who just got to his feet. He thrust the blade into the chest of the opponent, who collapsed without a noise. William had no time to celebrate though. A blow from behind took him to the ground. He ran out of air and grasping he rolled aside. Another blow hit his left shoulder, and he could feel as if his bone broke. He threw the dagger at the new opponent, even though he could not see the attacker clearly - his motion blurred due to the strong hit. The dagger hit the attacker, but not with the edge of the blade, but with the hold of the weapon. However, it gave William enough time to stand up, and get ready to dodge from the next strike, which was coming in the same moment as he stood up. The club hit his aching left arm again, and the pain blurred his vision. He did not needed to see the cloaked attacker though. He grabbed the arm holding the club, and did a half-turn while holding it. The attacker screamed as his arm broke, and kicked his leg. It wasn’t a powerful blow, but strong enough to make William lose his stability, so the attacker could flee into the bushes. When on his foot again, William took his sword and dagger back; than he took the attackers’ daggers up, and walked towards on the road. After a few steps he could see what the fight was about.... An elf with a bleeding nose was sitting on the road, giving him a questioning look.
-Who are you? And who were these? - William asked, while laying his hand on his sword. Just to be sure.
-I am Faren... kind of elf mercenary - the elf replied, and placed his left hand to his nose. William knew that “elf mercenaries” were usually rogues. If in nothing else but in the way of their work.
-And this little band? - William asked back.
-Robbers - Faren replied after he took his hand away from his face. He took a look at his bloody hand, and shook his head slowly.
-Your nose is possibly broken - William said to him, then added - what were you doing here... alone? I thought you mercenaries always go in a team.
-Not always... and I was kicked from my team anyway - the elf answered on a low tone, then added - I saw you fighting. You seem to know how the beat-ups go... would you mind if I join you? Two is stronger than one.
William knew Faren thought he was a mercenary or a thief also, but he did not mind that. His aching left shoulder reminded him how badly he needs some protection.
-Sure, you can come... - he nodded, then added - one is no party.
Faren smiled at him, and stood up.
-Were shall we go then? - He asked.
-Wherever this road takes us - William murmured aloud, and began walking ahead.
-To Imor Fatan then - Faren said - that is near enough, and this road will take us there in two days as I know.
William nodded. He did not really bother himself with the destination though. With his thoughts, they could even be going to Hell itself.

He could not stop thinking of his exilement. Only some holes in the road could bring him back to reality, but even those just for seconds. He was lost in the sea of memories. And never return he heard again. Shouting louder and louder he heard the sentence, more and more. And there was nothing he could do. He sighed... it was a cruel, and unjust deed.  But who would have cared with the fate of a... bandit? Noone. Noone did. And this was what mostly hurt him - noone, even not his friends did care of him. Now he wished to see only one thing...

Revenge.

While going on the road and lurking on his thoughts, he was totally silent. Faren endured this silence quite well for a while, but then he began to sing, obviously to do something so he would not get bored.

In the Great Fire of the Dark Vengeance
I shout for the angels to guard my fate
In the Great Fire of the Dark Vengeance
I bear all the pains so I can win

The song woke up William. He listened to the elf, and wondered what this little poem could be. It seemed to be really familiar to him...

In the Great Fire of the Dark Vengeance
I bear everything, I will resist
In the Great Fire of the Dark Vengeance
I will not flee, never give in

He smiled slightly, as he realised what this was. It was a quite usual song for the elven rogues... Normally he did not fancy the atmosphere of this song, but now, in his current situation - he felt as if the elf was telling he feelings.

In the Great Fire of the Dark Vengeance
The Night ’ll be my friend, guiding my way
In the Great Fire of the Dark Vengeance
I will win, no matter what way!

Faren said the last words, and fell into silence - however, he was cheering. William noticed how the song stimulated the elf. “It is a war song anyway” he added in himself.
-What is your current duty, elven rogue? - He asked Faren.
-Nothing. I am currently freelancing, waiting for someone to hire me - the elf replied.
-Then feel yourself hired - William made a toothy grin at him - but know that I cannot pay you yet... perhaps later.
-Since you saved me, let that not be matter this time - Faren smiled, and began to sing again. He had time for it, since Imor Fatan was two more days away on foot.

2. 	Four is a company
The elven city of Imor Fatan

-And what do you want to do here? - The guard at the gate asked them.
-We have some business here. Nothing which you would be involved in - William replied.
-I am involved in all businesses, or you shall not pass here - the answer came. This reply nearly made William loose his temper.
-Do not interfere in businesses any concern of yours. One of the long life’s most basic principles - Faren said on a low voice, and took a little blade into his hands. The guard’s eyes widened as he saw the dark blade, one unique sign of the rogues... the dark colour was due to the poison on the blade. The guard took a step back, and now knew what the elf told him. Both William and Faren knew that they could now freely pass, although they got no such answer. They went inside the great city.

-Keep following me close, boss... you may easily get lost here. There are dozens of tunnels going around the city, but which dwarven city does not have those? - Faren asked with a slight smile. William nodded, and followed the elf.

The city’s inside wasn’t a really unique or strange sight - it was rather like a normal big city. Elves, humans and dwarves everywhere, townfolks running or walking to all kind of directions, sometimes right into William. The houses seemed to be old, but they were still in good condition - thanks to mainly the stone which they were built from, and not to the inhabitants. The roads were narrow, muddy and dirty as usual, and the air was filled with all kinds of smells, and with loud noise. William sighed, and now wondered if the journey to this city could have been better than the destination itself.
-Where are we going? - he asked Faren.
-To some acquaintances of mine... perhaps they’ll help us to get some job or money. Perhaps both at once, as usual - the elf replied. William nodded.

They were in a narrow street, which was - surprisingly - not crowded. Rather to say, it was empty. Faren wanted to go into it, but William held his shoulder and pulled the elf back.
-Hey, there’s got to be a reason to noone be there. A reason good for us too - he told Faren.
Faren nodded, and looked around. Then he walked to a house, and tore a paper down from the house’s door.
-Beware, it says - he began to read - for the bandits here. Due to the high attacks in this street, the Council of Imor Fatan officially bans this street. Cross only at your own risk. The Court - then he added - bah. What foolishness... and they think that this is something even like a solution?! The court must be lacking common sense lately.
-But noone dares to go into this street expect us - William replied while he nervously looked around.
-The bandits left when the officer came here to put this paper on the door. Come on, we better get going... - Faren said, and began to walk. William shook his head, and wondered why they had to go here, why was it so important. Then he sighed, and tried to calm himself with the possibility of Faren might be right.
They were in the middle of the long street when William realised that Faren was not really right.
The doors of the surrounding houses opened, and elves jumped at them, armed with all kinds of weapons.

William drew his sword while he took a few steps back on the way he came. Two elves jumped at him, both armed with pitchforks. He took a step on the left aside, so the first elf missed him when striking. The second also stroke, but the pitchfork only caught the blade, which William held up defensively. However, William had more weapons also, and the second elf collapsed lifelessly with a dagger in his stomach. A pitchfork stroke again, and William had to jump back to avoid being killed. More elves were running at him, with swords, scythes, and everything, which was sharp enough to kill someone. A sword was flying at him, and William held his sword up again while he thrust one his daggers into his attacker. A pitchfork came again, and William had to defend with the sword again - but the move caused great pain to him, since his shoulder began to ache again. He whispered a few curses, and ducked back. A scythe scratched his face. The wound was not bad, it could hardly be called a wound - but the look of the “weapon” really made William fear his life. Led by a sudden thought, he jumped on a cart behind him. An elf followed him, but was struck down almost in the same moment by a friend of him with a scythe. The one with the pitchfork hit the wheel of the cart, and the wooden vehicle literally collapsed - the blow was stronger than needed, and the steel weapon destroyed more than a wheel. However, it was enough for William to loose stability, and fell into the crowd, which was now surrounding him.

He opened his eyes, and looked around. The elves were shouting at him words he could not understand - he did not really needed to do though. The situation was quite simple. A sword was rising above him, ready to strike down...

Blue beams flew through the air, and the crowd began to run. William turned back, to see what forced them to flee - it was a dragoness with a rider in some heavy black and red armour. For an instance, William realised that the protest against these riders caused his lately troubles - but then he reminded himself that this pair saved him also.

The dragoness with the rider came closer. Close enough that William could hear the reptile breathing...
 -Who are you, and what do you do here? Did you not see the paper?! - the rider asked him.
-I did... and I am... someone none of importance - William replied. His could still not see clearly... he must have hit his head when he fell of the cart, he realised.
-He is William Seymour, and I am Faren... and who are you, rider? - Faren asked. He was a surprise to William, as he thought the elf to be dead by now, after such a fight.
-Ahem - the reptile said.
-Sorry... who are you two then? - Faren repeated the question hastily.
-I am Percival, and this Blaze under me - the rider said, and the “under me” expression made both William and Faren grin toothily. Suddenly the dragoness lowered its head and raised its back, so the rider was catapulted into the air.
-Under me, he? - and a draconic laughter came.
-Argh. And you are supposed to be my helper all along! - Percival groaned while standing up in the heavy armour.
-We might change roles if you wish... I ride you and you take my to places I desire - Blaze replied with a smile again.
-You will now give us to the forces of the Order, won’t you? - Faren asked on a worrying voice.
The effect of this question was more surprising William could expect.
The mention of the Order caused both rider and dragoness become quite confused.
-Erhm, no - the rider said - but you have not seen us here, right?
-If you take us with yourselves, sure - Faren replied.
-And what about those friends of yours here? - William whispered to Faren.
-These were them - Faren replied, and William could now see why the elf wanted to leave so fast.
-Hmm, my vehicle can take even three persons at once, if our disguise is at stake.... Am I right, Blaze? - Percival asked.
-Once I will sit in YOUR shoulders, and then will you volunteer to such things! - Blaze murmured, then said aloud - But in this situation, all right. I cannot take all of you three to far, though.
-Getting out of the city will be enough - Percival said.
A few moments later, a dragon with three riders left the city, and flew over the city walls.

-And now what? - Blaze asked after landing.
Instead of any answer, an arrow landed in the ground a step far from the dragoness. She jumped back roaring, while Percival, William and Faren jumped up with weapons in hands. An elf came out of the bushes, and threw his bow far away.
-Sorry, I am terribly sorry! I did not know this is a bonded dragon...! - he said.
-And how do you dare to shoot at dragons at all?! - Blaze asked furiously.
-Since there is a high payment to everyone who gets one, dead or alive - the elf replied, and showed them a paper.
-Ah, a dragon hunt season beginning - Percival shook his head - it will be quite challenging to us, since everyone here first shoots and only then asks.
-Perhaps I can help, as an elf - Faren said - My presence could be enough to keep some nasty hunters away... I know my kind well.
-Sure - Percival nodded - no more flying then, though.
-Yes - Faren said - and we’d need something which would obviously show that your dragoness is not a free target.
-What about a large “SOLD” sign in her neck? - William asked laughing.

-He is quite a quick guy Percival said a good minute later.
-Yes, kind of. However, I guess we can take this sign-idea rejected then - Fared nodded, while William kept running away of Blaze, shouting “I WASN’T SERIOUS!”...

3. 	One for All, All for One!
In the forest of Moril Inoh

William sighed. However, this was not due to relief.... But the nervousness caused him to breathe out loudly. The forests were dark as usual, as the high trees blocked all the rays of the sun... and the whole place was as silent, as a grave. And the elves could really make a good use of the darkness in these lands... and for some reason, William had a feeling that Faren will not mean protection from the elves. With a heavy heart and an unsheathed sword, he walked the forest, followed by the little team.

Step by step, his mind became emptier as William was only browsing the trees with his eyes. Although he could see nothing, he was assured that there are elves behind every bush and tree, just waiting to jump on them. Led by a sudden realisation, he smiled... the “Soul of the Forest”, as the elves say. And it was true. No matter if elves were in vicinity or not, noone could feel himself safe. Suddenly he stepped on a dry branch lying on the ground, and it broke with loud noise. Everyone jumped aside, and got ready for a fight. William shrugged, and shook his head, as he realised what happened.
-No good so far. We will be done when we get out from this damned forest... even now we are getting close to get mad - Faren said. William smiled slightly on this... an elf fearing of a forest!
-Hmm, true. Any suggestions then? Whatever direction we take, we can’t be sure we do not only go deeper in this jungle - Percival said on a calm voice. William only now realised that Percival and his dragoness did not seem to get nervous by the forest. They were almost completely calm.
-Why don’t our little dragoness a tour above, looking around? - Faren suggested.
-In a forest possibly full of elves with longbows. Why don’t you take the target sign on your head?! - Blaze asked back aloud.
-Silence, you two. - Percival said, then added - if we have nowhere to go... well, then we may not have to go at all. I think we could camp here. Night is falling...
William wondered how to knight knew if it was day or night, as there was a nightly darkness in the forest all along. He did not really spent time on wondering this though.
-Stay here any longer? No-no-no. I think we better get out of here as soon as we can - Faren replied, and William nodded.
-Then show us the right way out - Blaze said with some irony, and Faren shrugged.
-Sitting here could be still better than going to a wrong direction, no? - Percival asked, and William nodded, saying - Then we’ll camp here for a while. Until we decide something better to do.
-Right then... but I say, we better stand on our guard. This place chills me - Faren said, and Percival burst out in a harsh laughter.
-An elf fearing from the woods? Something new! - he said, then added - and original.
-You do not know what powers the elves possess here... and I am... an... not too legal elf - Faren murmured.
-Not too legal! Rather to say, you are a bandit then - Blaze said with a sarcastic smile.
-I am not a bandit... but an outlaw - Faren nodded with a sad sigh - but I did not choose this. I was sent into a mission, and only later I learned that my commander was a rebelling fool... too late, though.
-Being silent in a crime is also as bad as committing it - Blaze replied with a burning look - do not want me to excuse. I cannot do that - and will not do. Not as long as you also feel guilty!
Faren sat down and stared at the ground... William had no doubts that he was feeling really broken. However, William also had no idea why the dragoness was so hostile towards the elf... she had no reason to do.
-Silence, Blaze - Percival said - we have heard enough, or perhaps more than enough. If you have nothing to say which would serve us all, then please remain silent.
Percival speaking in such a way to his bonded dragon was quite strange for William... the rider rather seemed to be diplomatic than friendly.
-I thought riders and dragons are always friends - Faren murmured.
-Well, mostly - Percival said, then looked at Blaze and added - but not all the time.
The conversation quickly ended due to some strange sounds coming from far away.

It was like the wind, but it was also different... it became stronger and stronger in every moment, like a tornado closing by.
-DOWN! EVERYBODY DOWN! - Percival shouted, and William and Faren lied down onto the ground, but still looked above. Meanwhile, Blaze hid herself as good as she could under a larger tree, fallen on the ground.
The sound became uncomfortably loud, and now they could see what it was.
A swarm of dragons crossing by.

At this point, William had quite a lot questions... why did they had to hide? Blaze, a dragoness was with them, and dragons did not really attacked each other as he knew. Also Percival was there, member of the Order - and the friendship between dragons and the Order was also well known. He also had some questions of Faren... too many things, too fast. William had a strong thought that his party is not really what it seems to be... everyone in it was acting in a different way they were supposed to. “A band of liars and bandits, perhaps... everyone, even I have a good reason to hide... an exiled noble, a thieving elf, and a perhaps traitor bonded pair. My luck!”. Just when he got here the dragons passed by.
-Why were we hiding? - Faren asked - You two are supposed to be members of the Order, no?
-Some dragons first roost and only then ask - Percival replied - and these were running.
-Running? From what? - William asked.
-From the elves... there were problems between the elves, dragons and the dwarves lately... for this reason did the Order reinforce their garrisons nearby. However, these reinforcements were ordered away in the last weeks, I can not tell you why though... here is a big war forming, and they withdraw even now? This makes no sense at all. Back to your question - yes, these dragons were fleeing away. The elves will likely not tolerate them too much from now on... neither the dwarves if you ask me. - Percival said slowly, while he was looking at the sky.
-Ah. And if both races won’t welcome them, where will they go then to, actually? - Faren asked.
-Nowhere. They are just running, but I think they also do not know to where... just away. Hoping. However, hope is not always a good thing to listen to... - Percival said.
William nodded. Same old story sometimes, the million refugees... however, using this word for dragons was a bit strange and really unlike to him. It was not really likely to William that the dragons in such numbers could be forced to be... refugees.
But if so...
Although it was a while ago and many things happened since, William did not forget the scene.
He - a noble - was exiled.
He still remembered his feelings; his hate and will to revenge.
Now, he had an idea of the possible weapon for this vengeance.
If the dragons there only need a safe home - they’ll get it. But only after or only then if they raided Southbridge with the nearby towns...
William slowly began to smile. Things seemed to be on the track now.
-What are you smiling at? Many beings without even a shelter are not so funny! - Blaze said, and William could guess the sight upset the dragoness.
-You are not happy - you only have an idea, am I right? - Percival murmured to William, and the ex-noble nodded.
-You know, I want revenge upon my false judge - badly. I want to see the ones who crushed my life at my feet, crawling, begging for my mercy... I want them to admit I was right - William said, half-wondering.
-And for this you could even use the dragons, huh?  - Percival nodded while smiling.
-You are insane if you mean this seriously! - Faren shouted astonished... for a moment the elf even forgot about hiding in this forest.
-None of us is sane, I think... if we were, we wouldn’t be here - Blaze said silently.
-Do you have any idea? - Percival asked.
-No. But I will make one. - William replied... but he could not think of a plan. His mind was filled with the glory and the triumph of the future... which might await him.
-Well, we will help you then I guess... I have no better to do, and neither Blaze as I know - Percival said, and the dragoness nodded.
-You saved me, now I will pay you back - Faren grinned toothily.
-But in this case... well, I think we better go to Allahn Ahn. The elven capitol has many black markets, and some slaves or mercenaries could be helpful along our journey - Percival suggested, and the little team began to slowly walk towards the suspected place of Alahn Ahn.

4. 	Capital troubles
In the elven capitol of Alahn Ahn

-Nice city - Blaze said while walking on the wide streets of the capitol. William nodded... it was a marvellous city indeed. The houses made of wood and painted white, the wide and clean streets - the whole look-like of the city was something astonishing. Although William was proud of the human architecture’s masterpieces, he had to admit the elves had also some skills in masonry.
-Alahn Ahn, the elven capitol - Percival said - one of the greatest cities in the forest of Moril Inoh... and also one of the mostly highly populated ones. The history of this city goes back for more than three hundred years, when King Lariel decided to make a stronghold in the forest of Moril Inoh... or the Green Forest, as humans say. The sight used to be different though... the forest was much bigger, and there weren’t so many little villages and garrisons scattered all around. Alahn Ahn was a wonder to the eyes of the travellers, a miracle to the lucky ones who made it here alive through the forest without any royal protection. For this reason did the city get the Golden Citadel name, which is spoken Alahn Ahn in elf language.. - here the knight paused for a moment, then added - Sometimes I am astonished to see how things change.
William nodded. Things indeed changed a lot.

Two days ago, they were preparing to die... lost in the huge forest. They had no idea where to go, they were starving and had no more water to drink. However, luck did not abandon them at all. Now, in the city, Blaze and Percival seemed to have an invisible aura that helped them a lot... However, William knew that this aura was called “the power of the Order”, and since he guessed that this two bonded are not really legal members of the Order, he knew that this won’t last long. However, it did last long enough to make them able get food and water, and it was not over yet.

-Yes, human... I am amazed you know so much of our history. What you said is true, from your first word to the last one - Faren nodded.
-Do not underestimate me - Percival made a toothily grin.
-And what now? We are here, and? Any ideas what to do? - William asked. He was never in this town before, and now had no idea where to go. He had thought of asking around, but he realised that he does not even know what to ask of.
-I must visit the High Council... I do not know why was I attacked, truly! I must visit the Council so I can get the answers I need - Faren said.
-And probably we will never see you again - Blaze replied on an ironic voice.
-Anyone who faces the Council to have his case done is under the Council’s protection. I won’t be harmed as long as my case is being done - Faren replied, and sighed - Although that grants nothing for my future... not I would be the first one who is killed after he visited the Council.
-Good luck then, matey. I hope we will meet you... in once piece - Percival said half laughing. Despite the fact he felt happy that his “friends” seem to be truly friends, William could not stop thinking why Percival became so friendly lately. He was worrying...
-And what shall we do now? Wait for him? - William asked.
-Nah, a case can last for days. We better take our time here around -  Percival replied, while he mounted Blaze.
-And where do you plan to go? - William asked, while he was thinking how could he follow the knight on the dragon, while he was on foot.
-To where all sane military commanders’ first trip here goes. To the black market - Percival shouted back, since he was already really far from William.

Despite the fact he had to ask everywhere about a dragon, William could follow Percival and Blaze until a point. That point was when he asked a big soldier in a plate mail.
-Have you seen a dragon here around? - William asked the soldier.
-DRAGON? - the soldier asked back astonished, and William could his eyes widen.
-Yeah, a dragon. With a rider - William replied, hoping for an answer and some help where to go.
-With.... a rider? A bonded rider, you mean? - the soldier asked again. William had no guess why would it have been so strange to ask for a dragon with a rider.
-Yes, I do. I lost them, and I’d need to find them - William replied with being near to loose his patience.
-A member of the Order? - the soldier asked him, and then added - Will there be a battle soon?
William had no idea of battles coming sooner or later, nor he could see the link between the Order and the battles. But he had to answer something....
-Well, maybe. Wherever I got with them so far, there was always trouble - he replied.
-Would you mind if we would join you then? - the soldier asked while his fellows hastily began to pack their belongings. This sudden opportunity took William with a total surprise, and he could not decide what to say for a few long seconds. Then, after some thoughtless moment, he said - Erm... sure. No problem.
The knights cheered, and the soldier he was talking to said - Yes, Sire!  The ten Templar Knights are at your disposal, Sire!
“So I hired ten knights? It is not so bad... but I wonder what will happen when I will tell them I don’t have even a single coin...” William thought, and asked the soldier again for Percival.
-Hmm, your dragon went into that street I think - the soldier pointed with his blade at a small street. William nodded, and ran towards the street... and despite his fears of small and shady streets, which he got in the last ambush, he bravely entered the street...
...and could see nothing.

-Are you sure? - he asked.
-I am! - the templar replied - I have seen both the rider and the dragon entering this street.
William scratched his head. The street had no other ends; it led into a dead-end. The knights would have spotted Blaze flying off... he could not think of anything. Expect the idea of some magic.
Suddenly the doors of a barn opened, and Percival walked out.
-Ah, William! Nice to see you... ah, so you have new friends? Great! - Percival greeted him.
-Greetings, your Honour - the templar bowed.
-Honour...? I am not used to that. Who are you, knight? - Percival asked on a suspicious voice.
-Temple Knights, Sire. Mercenaries - the knight replied, and then added - in your service this moment.
Percival nodded, and walked closer to the knight. They murmured something, and the two warriors shook hands. A moment later, the knights set off, and rode away on their horses.
-Not a really long lasting team - William said with a bit bittersweet feeling.
-They did not leave us... I just ordered them to go to a small port town, called Franem Lir. We will meet them there again... and there perhaps we will be able to pay them as well - Percival said on a wondering voice.
-And how will we got the money? - William asked back.
-Will? We already have! - Percival laughed.
But when looking at William’s dummy face, Percival realised he must say something else also.
-Many dragons have big hoards hidden.... Blaze also has one. And what is mine is hers, and what is hers... is mine - Percival said with a smile.
-Aaha. A reason of bonding, eh? For money... that’s something original - William laughed.
-Well, at least you heard something new today. Now, follow me... I have a few new friends to show you - Percival said, and William followed him into the barn.

It was really dark inside... William could see nothing. But when Percival lit a torch, William was about to take a few steps back... not only Blaze, but the other dragons faced him. And what was a bit more strange, the other two were tied well with chains.
-Well, they are them - Percival said.
-How did you get them...? - William asked slowly, since he could not speak fast after the surprise. His mind was still working to solve a reason for the situation.
-Black market. Dragons are a hostile race now, and you can buy literally anything on a black market... - Percival said, then added - even knights. Or, hunted enemies. Rather to say, it is easier to buy foe species than allies. Prices differ, you know...
William nodded with a slight smile.
-So? Which one do you want? - Percival asked him, and added - Think carefully, since the other one will be Faren’s.
This question astonished William. He was ready for anything - but not for a bonded selling him dragons. And not by bonded.
-Ehm... I don’t think I need a dragon yet... - William replied.
-Don’t worry, you will not bond. However, we need to speed up our movement, and this seems to be quite ideal for our purpose - Percival said, and William nodded.
-The green one - William said.
-Right - Percival said - release them, Blaze... and remember, flamebags: a wrong move, and you are sausage.
-And you leave this happen...! - the blue dragoness told Blaze, who turned her head away and said - Tell me what I should do then, if you have any better idea. You should be happy to be here alive rather than in the forest dead.
-William, do you know how to ride a dragon? - Percival asked meanwhile.
-It shouldn’t be much harder than riding a horse... dragons are larger anyway - William replied.
-Well... hmm... ahem... yes. You will see... - Percival said with forcing himself not to laugh, and this gave William no good hope.
-Anyway, who will I ride? - William asked, but the green dragon did not answer. Instead of saying anything, Percival pointed his sword at the dragon’s head, and this had some effect. -Talon - the green dragon said.
-Talon then... - William murmured, not really knowing now what to do. He did not want to sit on the dragon - he did fear this species enough for that - but he also did not have any idea of what say to gain time. Finally Percival solved the problem, since he obviously ran out of patience. He murmured something, and said - Okay, let’s go then. We will be running out of time.
-We have time, don’t we? Faren will be away for days, as you said - William replied.
-But we still have other things to do - Percival answered on an angry voice then went to Talon and said - Now, you will carry him and do what he tells you. Understood?
Talon did not seem to seriously take this command, as he did not show even a slight sign of understanding or obeying. In the next moment he heard the same sentence again, now with the support of a sword pointing at him again.
-I bet you do not know how sharp such a blade is - Percival said on a low voice, and Blaze nodded saying - Ten to one he doesn’t.
Talon gave them a half-angry, half-sad look, and sighed - I obey.
-Finally - Percival sighed - now let’s get going. Blaze, you and I shall look after Storm.
-Storm? - William asked on a surprised voice - but the weather is fine today...
-Storm is the other dragoness, dummy - Percival sighed, and turned to the two chained dragons, saying - And always remember, reptiles. We are team, and we work together, help each other. Oh, and punish those who don’t agree...

William now realised while Percival wanted to laugh on his mention on dragonriding. Even though Talon was doing everything as he was expected to do, William was about to fall down each time the dragon tried to go a bit faster than his usual speed. This gave both Percival and Blaze, both the elven crowds some scene to cheer on... meanwhile William wondered why is riding a dragon so better than riding a horse, which was much easier.
Finally, after an everlasting trip to William, they arrived to the palace of the Elven Court.
-Well, someone who I know is sweating in there - Blaze laughed.
-Yes... while someone sweats right here! - William replied, and nearly fell off Talon again, since the dragon stopped like the other two reptiles.
-William, can you even ride a horse? - Percival asked him.
-It might sound unbelievable, but I can - William replied.
-Well, it is indeed unbelievable to me - Percival replied, and opened a large pack which Storm carried. Then he took a saddle and a bridle into his hands. Talon immediately realised what is going to happen, and shook his head. However, with this movement he moved his body slightly, and William landed on the stone floor with a loud bang.
-Ohh, no, you won’t - Talon hissed.
-Why would I not? Now, lower your head and remain silent - Percival said.
-I won’t be the first horse-like dragon! - Talon replied, and took a step back.
-If you won’t bear this, William won’t be able to ride you. If he can’t ride you, we must say a goodbye to you. And if we leave you, you are dead. Decide which is better - Percival offered generously.
Talon made a bittersweet smile while saying - Thanks for reminding me. I was about to forget.
-I know - Percival nodded, and quickly began to put the bridle onto Talon, who seemed to strongly force himself to remain calm and silent.
-Well, I know that it will be quite embarrassing for him to wear that... but I also will get the “fame” of riding a bridled dragon - William murmured.
-Still better if you would have the fame of the “flying dragonrider”. The rider who always flies when his dragon tries to move - Blaze laughed.
Meanwhile, Percival finished “dressing” Talon up, and said - Okay, Willy, you are good to go.
-I am not Willy - William said on an offended voice.
-But your dragon is ready - Percival said while he walked back to Blaze.
-Perhaps even too ready - Talon said on a sad voice. William managed to get back on his dragon’s back, and deep inside his mind he admitted that he indeed felt thankful for these things. Riding Talon this way was indeed more comfortable, and he did not had to fear falling down.
-Well, seems we can go now - Percival said after William and Talon were ready to go.
-HEY! WAIT FOR ME! - they heard Faren suddenly.

The elf was running towards them, and jumped on Storm without asking anything. - Dragon, do you value your life? - Faren asked Storm.
The poor dragoness could not think of an answer, since she had no ideas why was she asked this.
-I.. I do not really know - she said on a hopeless voice.
-Well, if you do... RUN! - Faren shouted, and fired two shots from his bow backwards. In the same moments, soldiers with longbows began to shoot burning arrows countless at them. Moments later, the air was filled with arrows and dragon fired beams, lightning.
-This is getting to be more than I like - Blaze said, and took off. Suddenly Percival threw his bow away, and lied his face into his hands shouting - BLAZE! WHATCH FOR YOUR HEAD, CURSE IT!
Seeing the bonded leave, William and Faren also decided to take off. Soon, the three dragons lost the sight of the capitol on the horizon.

5. 	On the road again
Above the forest Moril Inoh

-Blaze, you are not a dragoness! You are simply a winged snake! Bah, I even lost my bow because of you... I wonder how could I leave you become such careless! - Percival shouted while he kept his aching head lying in his hands.
-Would you be so kind to stop insulting me?! Was I shot or you?! You better thank me that I took off in time! - Blaze replied furiously.
-IN TIME...!  And when would you take off when not “in time”? When you are full with arrows? We are bonded, and you know that I feel when you are hit... and I do feel that you only left in the very last moment! Next time try to be less aggressive, am I clear? You aren’t only playing with your life, but with mine also! - Percival shouted, but slowly regained his calmness.
-Ehm... if I could make a slight notice... - Talon on a weak voice.
-Huh? Sure, you can - William said, and realised that Talon must have tried to notice him something a few times now, however, the argument between Blaze and Percival totally took his attention.
-I think we better land - Talon said on whispered.
-Is something not right? - William asked, but he realised that this was a silly question. Should everything be alright, should Talon not try to tell him something.
-I think I am hit - Talon groaned. For a moment, William did not know what to do in such a case - but when looking down, measuring his altitude, then realising without Talon he would take this height downwards quick, he agreed with his dragon.
-Land as soon as you can then! - William said on a frightened voice.
Talon did not needed to be told twice, and began to dive in a sharp angle.

A few moments later they were on the ground. William looked at himself - and noticed how lucky he was. He was caught by almost six arrows, but none could make it through his clothing and mail - mainly thanks to his shield, which he carried on his back. Then he looked at Talon, and realised that the dragon was indeed near to fall down. Although no arrows hit him heavily, his wings were leaky on some points and had a few arrows stuck in him.
-This might hurt... - William said as he began to pull out an arrow from Talon. He knew that he could do this, since he has the arrows which hit his shield, and knew that they weren’t real war, just some old training stuff.
-This indeed hurts... could you try to do it a little softer? You might find yourself without a partner - Talon said, and laid his head on the ground. William was working as fast as he could, pulling out arrows one by one. Since he did not had any bandages, he had to tear his coat apart and use that as a pressure on Talon’s wounds - however, he knew that he will never be able to do anything significant alone. A few moments later he heard the others landing.
-So not only I was incautious! - Blaze said, and added - Is it bad?
-I don’t know, I was never ever bandaging a dragon - William replied - why don’t you decide it?
-It is not really bad. Step back, William... even healing magic can be harmful! - Percival said, and closed his eyes. He began to say words William could not understand, and drew shapes into the air with his hands and his legs. With each passing moment, Percival was surrounded by a stronger blue aura, and Talon’s wounds seem to fade. But before they would have totally faded, Percival stopped the spell, and fell choking on the ground.
-And I am careless - Blaze said while grasping for air
-Ah, I am too weak... I cannot heal a dragon that much. Dragons are too resist to magic - Percival shook his head as he stood up.
-Unfortunately they are not resistive against arrows that much - Storm said on a sad voice.
-Noone is. Who can bleed can die... - Percival said, and took a closer look of Talon. - He will be alright soon, but he won’t be able to fly for a while, I fear... we have to go on foot. At least for a while - the knight added.
-And before we make a step. Faren, why did we our back shot? - Blaze asked while looked at her wings, searching for an arrow.
-Nothing I have not expected. For my rogue past, which was well known for all along, I got exiled from the army and from all elven towns, since I tried to “hide my past”. Bah - Faren said, while he shook his head.
-Let’s just say it was not totally unjust - Percival murmured.
-Okay, I was a shady element, needless to say. However, half of the elven mercenaries could be dismissed and exiled for this reason! - Faren burst out.
-Then you were a lucky one - Blaze yawned - they found you of the million.
-Funny - Faren said - I only wonder why cannot I laugh on it.
-And will this have any further meaning for us? - William asked on a worrying voice.
-More arrows I assume - Talon groaned while he stood up.
-Well, most elves that recognise me will be hostile... in case they are loyal to the court, though - Faren said, and added - Aw man, they shoot my pack through. So much about my wine.
-Not you are the only one who lost something, so stop crying - William replied as he took a look of his gold purse, which had a big hole on it’s side. What is worse, no gold inside.
-Before we would get lost in the sorrow of our lost belongings; we better get up and get going. There is a long way waiting for us, which have to take on foot - Percival said while he mounted Blaze.
-You talk as if you would walk - Blaze added sarcastically - my legs already hurt.
-And don’t you feel anything like that at your mouth? Speaking too much often hurts it - Percival made an evil grin. Looking back, the knight said - William, you should come here. I don’t think Talon could carry you for long in such a condition.
-Alright - William nodded, and sat on Blaze, who murmured something they could not understand. However, all of them knew that not understanding what she said was good for her repute in the team.
-If I may ask, what is our destination? - Storm asked.
-Emar Katen - Blaze said - we are going to see some hills.
-I don’t feel like being really able to climb hills - Talon spoke on a sad voice.
-Well, you don’t have to soon. The so-called “Middle Hills” are close when travelling in air, but far when going on foot - Percival sighed as Blaze began to walk, followed by the other two dragons.
-Middle Hills? - Talon asked back.
-That’s Emar Katen - Blaze laughed, and Talon seemed to have shrugged a lot.
-Don’t mind them, just ask me if you feel like lacking some knowledge - Storm smiled at Talon.
-Wohoo, what is for first sight sometimes? - Faren laughed at the two dragons smiling at each other.
-Nothing I tell you - said Storm in the next moment to Faren, who now lied on the ground after a good flight.

-The El Ynes - Percival said when looking at the great river - or the Silver River, as you know it. The biggest river in the elf kingdom.
Noone had doubts of this information. They could hardly see the other side of the river, while the great amount of water slowly flowed down between the two riverbanks.
-And how will we get over to the other side of the river without flying? - Talon asked on a worrying voice.
-Well... no way without flying. However, the distance is not great, since you can see the other side - Percival replied.
-That’s no guarantee for my leaky wings and me - Talon sighed full of despair.
-I have an idea. What if I would tie the dragons to each other with a magical rope of mine? It is strong enough to be able to hold such a weight, and we could ensure that we wouldn’t loose anyone - Faren suggested.
-Good idea. If one falls into the water, the others will follow him - Blaze said while shaking her head.
-Or perhaps the others will pull him out -  Talon answered on a hopeful voice.
-It’s a deal. Faren, throw that rope here. Blaze will lead the line, Talon will be in the middle, and Storm will be the last. Now, get moving... time is the essence! - Percival commanded. They began to tie the rope on Blaze’s stomach.

Twenty minutes later they were flying over the river. They were already done with half distance without any problems. However, William kept looking back at Talon - he still had some of his fears and doubts remaining. The green dragon could hardly keep the speed of the others, even though it was quite obvious he did his best. William took a short look backwards, and realised that they were almost there. He yelled...
...and in the next moment he fell into the sand, after flying for a good thirty seconds.

Even though they were near, they weren’t there... and looking back, William could realise that Talon was now in the water. What was worse, the other two dragons were also near to take the last bath of them. Blaze was struggling to keep Talon in place against the river’s current, while Storm was trying everything to remain in air. William suddenly saw Percival standing in front of his dragoness, obviously not knowing what to do.
-Any idea, my lord? - Percival asked William, when the knight saw the noble running towards them.
-Hurry up, I can’t hold such a weight for long - Blaze hissed.
-We better cut the rope - Percival murmured.
-And then Faren and the two dragons will be gone - William replied.
-No, we only loose Talon if Storm will flame the rope also - Percival wondered. Although it was a cruel idea, William had to agree that loosing only Talon was still better than loosing nearly everyone. Lead by a sudden thought, Percival said - Give me your bow!
-Nah, we shouldn’t shoot them down - William shook his head, but Percival ignored this answer. The knight was half wondering.
-GIVE IT HERE! - Percival shouted when he realised the bow wasn’t in his hands yet.
Blaze groaned a big, and nearly fell into the river. She could only regain her stability in the very last moment, and now she was standing in the water. William quickly gave the bow to Percival, who tied a rope onto an arrow, and fired it at Storm.
Faren was wondering what could he do with a rope. Looking at Percival, who was obviously showing the moves of tying, the elf quickly tied the rope onto the neck of Storm.
-Another rope...... one was far enough for me.... - Storm reacted while grasping for air. She was running out of power, and Faren knew that he will soon take a bath in the river of Percival’s idea won’t work.
Meanwhile, William and Percival tied the same rope to a tree and then to a rock, and twisted it around an another tree so they could pull it when needed. Percival took the bow again, and shot the rope tying Storm to Talon.
Storm wasn’t counting with this, and was still flying upwards with full power. With that rope gone, she flew upwards without control. However, the second rope that bound her to the tree pulled her towards the other bank. A moment later the dragoness collided into the ground with a loud bang.
Blaze was also not expecting for this. With Talon being not pulled by Storm any longer, she could not hold the dragon, and the rope on her pulled her into the water in the same moment.
-Now two dragons are in the water - William shook his head.
-Fear not - Percival said - Blaze can swim, and Storm will help her pull herself and Talon out.
Suddenly Percival began to choke and grasp for air.
-Perhaps she is not a so good swimmer than I thought - the knight said with a sad smile, and shouted - Faren! Storm! Pull that darn rope!
Storm could hardly even stand on her legs. Her head was aching due to the collision, and she could only see black and green spots, when she heard - Okay, pull it!
Not really knowing what to do, she walked forward. She realised that she was now holding the rope, and was being dragged towards the river. Even though she tried to walk forward, her legs could not do too many things against the power, which pulled her backwards. Being in half panic, she quickly grabbed a large tree nearby, and then she gladly noticed that she was standing still. Just the rope around her neck was beginning to hurt her much...
-Storm could manage to not get pulled backwards more - Percival nodded, and choke again - I wonder if Blaze will be able to swim out.
-Hey, look there..... - William said, and the knight also turned back. William was looking at Storm holding a tree.
-Clever- Percival nodded. Then looking back they saw the Blaze was now coming closer to the riverbank. With Blaze being closer, Storm could walk a bit forward, and could even help pulling Blaze onto the shore. With the two dragonesses out of the water, Talon was also in safety in a few minutes.
-Next time I will tie rope on you - Blaze said while grasping.
-I thought I was going to get hanged up - Storm choked.
-You are not that lucky - Percival replied with an evil smile.
-And what now? - Faren asked. Everyone knew that this question was due to Talon, who was now almost totally unable to move. He was choking water and was grasping for air, and they could see that he was on the edge of losing his consciousness.
-Well, seems we have to walk on our foot now... while our two strong dragonesses will bring Talon - Faren said.
-I can hardly even drag myself, not another dragon - Storm replied.
-We can not wait here... or we may meet elves, or the Order’s fighters - Percival said. Suddenly Blaze forgot of her tiredness, and said - I will pull him, just get going!
William wondered why did the mention of the Order cause such an effect on a bonded... and he remembered that this was not the very first time. However, he was far too tired to think of such things. All his mind could think of was a bed, some food and lots of rest.
With a heavy mind and perhaps even heavier legs, the little team slowly walked on the road.

6. 	Noone is perfect
In the hills of Emar Katek

They were going a lot faster than in the past few days, William noticed. With Talon being able to walk on his foot again, they could go on dragonback, which was faster than the two feet of the elf and the humans.
The forest suddenly ended, and they could see large mountains in front of them... rather to say, the horizon was filled with mountains.
-Emar Katek - Percival said - or the Middle Hills. As you like it...
-Our living encyclopaedia - Blaze interrupted - would you only ONCE forget to speak an hour long of something you see?
-Sure - Percival said on an offended tone, and then fell silent.
William took a long look at the mountains in front of him. It was an amazing sight. Some of the mountains were like little hills, not really looking taller than the ground, which they stood on. Some other mountains were tall as trees and the top of them were covered in the grey clouds, as if the hills were about to stab the clouds through. And when he focused stronger, he could see some big moving black spots in the air among the hills...
-Something moves there - William said.
-Dragons. Quite a lot live in these hills... although the dwarves do not really like them around here, it is almost impossible to wipe the dragons from these hills out. The hills are steep enough to not let vehicles pass, horses and other walking creatures can also move only slow. Meanwhile, dragons can freely adventure, since they can fly - Percival explained.
-The dwarves do not really like them? - Talon asked.
-Hunt them - Blaze replied - I thought you knew!
-How would I? I was never ever this far from my homeland - Talon explained while looking around - and I am terribly homesick now.
-Where are you from? - William asked.
-Not far from Mani Inoh - Talon replied on a sad voice, and William could guess that his question made Talon remember things the dragon would have rather wished to forget.
-That’s more than two months from here... on the other side of Moril Inoh - Faren nodded - well, you indeed got a bit far away. How did you get this far, anyway?
-I was flying with my friends, just looking around. Some elves began to shoot at us, and I was hit... I had to land, and there I was captured. From then I had a hard life in a cage on some cart. I don’t know how long was I transported, I only know that I didn’t get any food and only very little water... I think I was near to die at the end of the journey... - Talon said slowly with closed eyes.
-Then we have met in Alahn Ahn’s slave market and from there the story is ours also - Percival nodded.
-Nice chatting here, but I think we better go. The sun will set soon, and the mountains are in front of us... I am not willing to enforce you, Talon, but couldn’t you fly? It is hard to climb those mountains even for humans, and we would have serious problems with our much greater sizes - Blaze asked while staring at a tall mountain.
-I can try to. However, I can give no promise how long or good can I fly in my current condition - Talon replied, and opened his wings.
-Well, good luck then. You have no rope this time though, so be a bit more careful - Blaze laughed as she took off.
-I hate her sometimes - Talon said on a half crying voice.
-Forget her. And anyway, you can at least say you were once really near to killing her - William said to Talon, and the dragon forced a sad smile, then William added - Well, we could try how can fly now.
Talon began to flap with his wings, and soon they were on their way after Blaze.
-Will we follow them? - Faren asked.
-I don’t know... perhaps. But first, tell me a pretty! - Storm said with a toothily grin.
-What about “please”? - Faren asked, and Storm took off while laughing loud.

They weren’t flying too fast mainly due to Talon’s slow speed. The dragon was indeed not flying too fast, but it was still better as if they had to walk, all of them thought. While they were on their way, the sun went down, and soon the little team was flying in the middle of the jet dark night, where they could only see the stars and the twin moons. William stared at a black cloud, which hid some parts of the first moon... he wondered what would happen now. They have gone through more dangers even now he would have liked to... only one thing kept him with these adventurers.
The promise of revenge.
With this party he had a slight hope of razing Southbridge, and this thought filled his heart with content, and drove him to go on. Only this thought kept him going, and even though he knew that this is possibly a bad thing - as all revenges are - he could not deny the temptation. He was a noble for his life, not only respected and admired due to his nobility but to himself also. He was a valued people of his city. Until some fools accused and sentenced him guilty - while he was innocent.
This was an outrageous event to his heart, and he could not get over it. Every moment he tried to escape he only got closer, every moment he wanted to forget and to forgive he was only slipped deeper into this madness.
And even thought Talon gave his best to fly as fast as he could, William’s thoughts were much faster than the dragon. He could see the city lying in ruins, the survivors begging him to forgive. He could see it, he could feel the triumph, and he could taste it. It was so real...
He was confident that would happen. Sooner or later, but it will...
And not even the Order will stop him.

-Dragons nearby! - Percival shouted, and this brought William back to reality.
-Where? - Faren shouted back while taking his bow into his hands.
-Take your bow back, if there will be some air action you will not be able to hold your dragon - Percival said while looking back. The elf nodded, and took his bow back onto his back.
-Any ideas what now? - William asked.
-What about landing and speaking with them? - Storm suggested.
-Would you begin to chat with three invaders while a hunt is going for your head? - Blaze asked.
-We can’t know until we try - Storm replied.
-Well, I think  - William began to speak, but suddenly ten dragons appeared, forming a circle around them.
-Uh-oh - Talon whispered - here’s some trouble. William, I am not really able to fight... the first weird move I do in air and both of us will be on the ground next moment...
William also knew this, and replied - No problem, fear not - while he was quaking with fear.

-You have trespassed into our lands... what do you want? - a dragon asked them.
-There were no signs this is your land. We will pass only - Blaze replied.
The dragon shook his head.
-No. Your presence here has the possibility of spies looking for our nests... you will not leave. Follow us - he said.
Both William and Talon sighed as they followed the dragons.

7. 	Dirty business
In a cave somewhere in Emar Katek

-Where are we going to? - Talon asked on a worrying voice.
-Our leaders wish to see the spies - a dragon replied.
-SPIES?! - Talon asked half-shouted. He seemed to have turned quite upset by thought of he spying after dragons.
-Couldn’t we just sit down and talk about this? - Storm asked again.
-You will have to talk a lot indeed soon - a dragoness said with a toothily grin.

They were walking in the large cave for almost an hour, and then finally they arrived in a large room, which had the shape of a dome. Although William could not really see the sizes due to the lack of light sources, he was sure it was an enormous room. The walls were decorated with some bad quality paintings, which made William shrug a bit - he never even heard of dragons painting. Same he thought of the furniture, which was although mostly made of stone was a good evidence of the dragon leader’s deserves - and also showed a good evidence of the dragons’ abilities.

-Ah, you came to spy after us. I wonder how much money you were to give to risk your life... - the dark blue dragoness asked on a half-laughing voice.
“At least she enjoys the situation” William thought bittersweetly.
-We didn’t came here to spy after you - Blaze shook her head.
-Then why would have you come here? - the leader asked.
-We were only travelling across. We were heading towards a dwarf city - Percival explained.
-And how do you think I will believe you? - the blue dragoness laughed.
-Since you wouldn’t kill anyone who may make business with you... - Blaze said, then added - ...Crystal.
The blue dragoness astonished.
-How do you know my name? - she asked with widened eyes.
-I know more you would think of. I know anything of you... and I know other things also - Blaze said with an evil grin. Crystal totally confused. She thought this to be an easy situation, and now a black dragoness was talking as if she was the Ultimate Codex herself. This was not what Crystal prepared for, and she could not stop thinking of this.
-What shall we do with them, Crystal? - a dragon asked the leader.
-If you do not harm us, I might offer you a deal, which would serve both of us - Blaze said slowly. Crystal slowly nodded and said - Right... Arrow, lead them into the empty sleeping chamber... I will talk with them later, when I will have some time.
Arrow seemed to be having turned upset by Crystal’s will. He obviously wanted the spies to be dead, not be sleeping under the lair’s protection. However, he did not had too many ways to go.
-Follow me... - Arrow said with hate, and began to walk hastily in a cave. Not having better choices to take, the little party followed him.
They have gone across many caves, and could see lot of dragons of all colours when they finally arrived in their own cave.
-Here - Arrow said on a quaking voice - go without blessings.
As hatefully he spoke as fast he left the cave.
-Hmm, we seem to already have our reputation here around - Talon smiled.
-Well, yes - Percival nodded -as spies.
-It is not a so bad job - Faren said while sitting down to the ground.
-Do you know where can water be found in such a cave? - Talon asked while he slowly began to walk towards the entrance of their sleeping cave.
-You ask me as if I was living here. Ask a dragon around - Blaze said while she slowly lied down.
-Well, you knew the answers for every question before - Talon smiled and left to another cave.
They were sitting in silence for a while, and finally Storm said - I am going after some food.
-Good idea, bring me some if you find - Faren said.
-Alright - Storm nodded and left the cave.
-Not a clever idea unless you like raw meat - Percival laughed.
-Dragons have fiery breath, don’t they? My little dragoness will cook it for me - the elf smiled as he imagined a big piece of roosted meat.
-Yes... but if I imagine meat being roasted by dragon flames, I think you will eat coal then - Percival laughed louder. Faren seemed to have ignored the knight for a moment or so, but then he said - Seems I will remain hungry then - on an unbelievably sad voice.
William kept looking at the conversing Percival and Blaze, then followed Faren’s lead - he fell asleep just as the elf did.

William awoke when two hands began to shake him. He slowly got up, yawned, and tried to open his eyes - which was a harder task than he had expected to do. He yawned again, scratched his head, and finally slowly opened his eyes.  He could see something moving in front of him; however, he could not link to anything in his memory. Then he thought he gets it, but he denied the idea of seeing a yeti. Then he tried again, and finally realised whom he saw.
-What do you need? - he asked Faren.
-Well, I’d only like to tell you something - the elf began - if my memory servers me right, Talon and Storm left to eat and to drink.
-True - William yawned. “And I should have sent you after them so you wouldn’t wake me up” he thought.
-And they are gone for hours! - Faren said.
-They were hungry perhaps - William yawned again, and tried to decide how could he send the elf away as soon as possible.
-Don’t you get what I say? What if they are in trouble?! - Faren said, and took his sword into his hands - Neither Blaze or Percival was here since they left. Perhaps only we remain here.
-Bah. A dragon and a dragoness venturing away together means no problem... it’s usual - William said, then yawned and forgot to add „perhaps they are lost. What do you want from reptiles?”
The loss of that sentence made Faren think of a really different thing...
-They are not that kind of dragons - the elf shook his head.
-How do you know? - William asked, while he thought he said that sentence -reptiles are dumb... usually...
Faren looked convinced now, but for some reason seemed to began to worry about something.
-Little baby dragons...... bah... had I know this... - the elf said, and seemed to got into even sorrow now. William wondered to ask what “baby dragons” Faren mentioned, but he remained silent - he was now on the edge of realising what the conversation was going about. Suddenly Blaze entered the cave.
-What baby dragons...? - the dragoness asked with widened eyes.
William was half woke up now, but wasn’t getting even a bit closer to the conversation.
-About Storm and Talon - William yawned, and wondered why was Blaze suddenly running out of air.
-And how are you that sure? - Blaze asked suspiciously then.
-Well, William told me - Faren said just as William said - Well, Faren told me.
Blaze only sighed.
-Anyway, why is that a problem? - William asked. He was now more or less capable to monitor the events going around him, and wanted to learn what could have happened anyway.
-We have enough troubles even without that - Blaze said, yawned, and lied down - my head is aching. These dragons would never leave us go.
-Hmm, we have to send them to hell then? - Faren asked, and Blaze jumped up with glowing eyes. Even though she was not such horrid creature, Faren took three meters backwards with one big jump - which was an unlikely good jump of him.
-Send them! THAT’S IT! - Blaze laughed, and ran out.
-Seems the world is upside down today - Faren sadly shook his head, and sat down.
-Tell me when it wasn’t upside down - William yawned again, and lied back onto the ground, while whispering various curses to those stupid mortals whom awoke him.

-WAKE UP!
William’s hand slowly took a good grip on his sword, and he was thinking if he should first cut and then ask, or first ask and then cut... the outcome was quite the same in either way, he had to admit. Finally he realised that it would not worth the effort after all, and he only sat up.
-What now? - he yawned. He hated when he was not let to sleep. However, he got up instantly when he realised that a dragon was waking him up. He was on his feet in a moment.
-What’s happening? Ambush? Adventurers? Wartoks? Earthquake? End of the world? - William kept asking, and only stopped when he realised that the dragon in front of him became more confused than himself.
-Uhm... no... just your friends... they want to see you... - the dragon replied.
-Oh, okay. I am on my way - William nodded, and walked out of the cavern...
...where he realised that he will get lost in a moment.
-Pardon, could you guide me there? - he asked the dragon who was now behind him.
-Sure - the red scaled reptile nodded.

The dragon led William back to Crystal, who was still negotiating with Blaze and Percival.
-...as I said, I have offers you can not refuse - Blaze said, and Crystal shook her head.
-I have already heard enough offers from you - the blue dragoness said.
-I want to make my final one - Blaze said after a moment of thinking.
-Speak it out. But be fast, time is expensive - Crystal yawned.
-I would... buy the nest from you. - Blaze replied, and the dragons surrounding began to laugh hysterically. Crystal only smiled, shook her head and said - There is no wealth I would give this for.
-And for perhaps the same big cave filled with gold and jewels? - Percival wondered aloud.
The laughter went on, but Crystal suddenly become serious.
-What do you mean? - she asked.
-What I say. I take this cave with all who is inside, and you get a cave filled with all the goods - Percival said, while Blaze groaned and forced a smile. However, William could not decide of Blaze was really smiling or just was about to bite someone...
The dragons surrounding fell silent, and Crystal was deep in her thoughts. This took the dragons with surprise - they thought that their leader value them more than anything, and now she would be about to compare them with worthless metal pieces?
-Come on, Crystal. We know that you are greedy, and your only aim in life is to get wealthy... here is the chance for you to succeed! - Percival said, and Blaze sadly nodded.
-I...I... - Crystal wondered aloud, then said - I agree. Which of you is the new leader?
If they weren’t armed, they could have been killed in a moment. The answer so shocked the dragons they forgot about everything, and only the bows of the two humans and the elf and Blaze’s talons hold them off from attacking. Moments later, when they regained their common sense, the dragons slowly walked out. From their sights William could see that they were almost completely thoughtless - and perhaps hopeless also.
Blaze whispered something to Crystal, and the former leader nodded.
-I will fly there immediately - Crystal said, then said - William, you are the new leader then.
William smiled, but only since he had no other idea how to react. Crystal took her word - she left almost immediately.
-What now? - Faren asked - we now have a pack of dragons aiding us.
-A force small enough to be effective, but too large to be able to sneak - Blaze said, and Percival nodded.
-Since we do not plan to stay here, we must get our new dragons move how we tell them. They wouldn’t have big problems, expect a few difficulties... - Percival wondered.
-Difficulties? - William asked surprised. He had no idea what this word covered.
-Their eggs, the hatchlings, the younger ones who cannot fly yet, the older ones who can not fly for too long - Percival explained, and William nodded.
-Well, these ‘difficulties’, as you called them, could be carried by the best fliers - Faren suggested.
-This will delay our movement, I must remind you - Percival said with narrowed eyes.
-Our speed of movement is not such important as them - William said, and Percival sighed due to relief.
-I was beginning to fear I raised a tyrant - the knight smiled.
-No, your Honour, by no means - William smiled, while he thought, “You raised an Avenger.”
-William, you stay here. Take Crystal’s place so the dragons can see that you are the new leader of them. We will bring them here. - Percival said, and the little team went to work.

8. 	I want to believe
Over the hills of Emar Katek

The dragons accepted their new leader fast and without any comments - they were too loyal and lawful to disagree with their leader’s will, even if that leader actually sold them. However, William realised that Crystal had better been on her guard now - she suddenly became really unpopular. The slightest idea of revenge William heard was to fill the former leader dragoness with her gold - until even a single coin wouldn’t fit into her...

Despite the anger against Crystal, the dragons took off by sunset, as William wanted. There weren’t as many eggs and younger dragons as expected, however, there were enough of them to make every dragon able to fly carry something. And while riding Talon, William could not stop smiling... Talon and Storm came back together, and both of them looked aghast until they realised what happened. “I have never thought to be the one of a dragon nest’s leader’s closest dragon” Talon said with a slight smile, and this felt really good for William. However, a comment of Storm really made William wonder - how could Blaze gain such a big hoard? And why would she suddenly spend it all - to make William gain power?

The small air force was heading south as Blaze suggested.  They weren’t flying fast, but as the dragons told him, William knew that this was the maximal speed they could do. Having no better to do, William looked at the stars again, wondering. He wondered if it is true that stars can tell the fate of mankind... and if so, which star could be the secret of his fate. And what could that star tell him... what would he give to learn! If he will once fulfil his task given to himself, or perhaps will end somewhere, with steel in his heart, forgotten by everyone? Will this purchase of the dragons turn out to be a blessing - or a curse?
Will his - sometimes senseless - hate lead him to glory...  or, perhaps - to death?
-Are you thinking? - he suddenly heard Talon. William quickly fell back to reality.
-Why do you think? - William asked.
-Since you do not reply to my repeated questions - Talon said with a slight smile.
-Alright, I was. But you can ask now - William replied.
-Sorry for disturbing you then... -Talon began - But I think we should land now. I don’t know for sure, but some of our dragons could be tired now... it still better to give them some time to rest than to loose them.
“Our dragons” William could still hear. He smiled slightly... Talon was really into the leader’s task. William wondered, and decided that he should leave the dragon to do so - he could never care of dragons so much than another dragon.
-You are right... slow down, and wait for the others - William nodded. Talon would have done without commanding also - but it was not the same for William, who enjoyed riding his own dragon. Who was becoming his friend also, he had to admit.
-And William.. Do not forget that I am also halfway of regaining my former power... the arrows shot at me in the elven city and that swimming really reduced my abilities. - Talon said on a low voice, and William realised that perhaps not only the dragons behind were beginning to run out of their power.
-I say something better. Land now, Talon... we will go on later - William commanded.
-Thanks - Talon smiled, and dived in a soft angle towards the ground. Being the one with leader on him, the dragons followed his movement. In a few moments the whole team was on the ground.
William jumped off from Talon, and took a quick look at the dragons, which were now sleeping or were preparing to sleep. Being night, William had no problems with this, but he wondered what will happen to them daytime, when a slow travelling and quite defenceless team of dragons will fly through dwarven lands - while the dwarves declared them as a hostile species. He scratched his head and sighed. Life is never boring... “And even less boring when dozens of arrows are flying towards your back” he added in himself, and made a sarcastic smile.
-Talon, you should also lie down for a while... tomorrow will be lots of flying, and it can happen there won’t be much time to rest - William said.
-I was just thinking of the same... good night - Talon replied, lied down, and began to snore. William sighed, and felt sorry for the other dragons that tried to sleep nearby. Then he quickly put his helmet up, which had the possibility of some noise reduction, then stared at the moon again. Turning back he saw that Talon wasn’t sleeping alone, since Storm was lying close to him. A few dragons around were chatting, and some were standing guard. William shook his head, and decided to look around. He knew the dangers of a night trip, but he was bored - and also knew what dangers what a fight on an unknown scenario would have meant. But just when he took ten steps, the ground disappeared under his feet, and he began to fall...

He landed with a loud groan. Looking up he realised that he fell right into a pit, which was nearly ten meter high. This made him wonder how did he survive this fall, when he realised that the ground was not stone, but something stone looking but soft thing. He has never even heard of such a material... he knew that there was no way to get out upwards. Shouting could have brought some of his dragons here, but it was unlike since his voice would have got lost in the sounds of the dragon’s voices, which were chatting and snoring around. He quickly took his sword into his hands, and tapped around. He found a passage in the wall, and slipped through...

He got into a large room, which was lit by candles. It was a tidy and clean room, as William could see. Suddenly he noticed a large two-handed sword on the wall. He slowly walked towards it, and took it down. However, the first time he tried to swing the sword, the blade broke and shattered on the ground. William shook his head - the sword must have been a faulty crafted one. Despite this, it was richly decorated... suddenly William realised why was the blade so easy to break. It was really rusty in some parts.... “This sword must be hundred years old to break like this” William realised, and threw the broke sword away. And he began to wonder what place this could be... what purpose could it serve here, in the middle of the mountains, buried deep beneath the ground? He sat down, and looked up at the snow white ceiling, which made a sharp contrast with the brown walls and with the black ground... then he astonished.
The ceiling was snow white.
Despite the candles, which were burning beneath it... there were no black spots or parts, no signs of the candles’ smoke... the candles did not even smoke, William realised.
He was fond of magic, but not in such cases. He ran towards the passage where he slipped in, and he stopped with open mouth, wondering to scream or not.
The passage was gone.

Trap, he realised. Some kind of magical trap... still could he not even guess why would have anyone built such a trap or a building here. Why? It could have taken ages to carve the stiff stone of the mountains, not talking of bringing in the supplies of the builders, and of the people living here. William slowly took his helmet off, and stared at a candle. He was feeling hopeless... and he noticed the air moving. There was some kind of slight breeze in there... this was another surprise to him. He looked around, but could see no entrances or anything such where the air could move. Then he had an idea. He picked up the broken sword, and placed it back into its original place. “This has to be some kind of a hidden mechanism,” he thought, but he had to realise he was wrong. Even though he placed the sword back, nothing happened. He picked the sword back, and threw it away with fury. The next sight shocked him again.
The sword flew through the wall.
He slowly walked there, and touched the brown wood, but his hand slipped through it. “Magical barrier, or perhaps an illusion” he realised, and walked through it. Another surprise came when he faced an enormous pit on the other side.
The pit wasn’t too wide, but was wide enough to not let him jump to the other side. Looking into it he could only see darkness... he picked a rock up, and threw it down. He could not hear it landing, even after a minute of waiting. Not having better ideas to do, William threw his shield, sword and helmet to the other side, and after a silent prayer, he jumped.
He was halfway over the pit when he realised he won’t make it. The pit was just too big... however; he could manage to get a hold in a small hole of the side of the pit. Looking he realised he will have much to climb, but he knew this was still better than falling down.
“Your time is running out. The higher you will climb, the higher from you will fall... you are staring at the stars, but you will loose sight of it all.” William suddenly heard a voice. This only made him more nervous - there was noone in the vicinity, how could he hear anyone speaking? Magic, perhaps, he realised. Could he enter a tomb of a long dead mage? Or a hidden base? Or a laboratory?
....and will that mage let him go away alone?

His muscles were aching. Bit by bit he had to climb up, but finally he made it. He took his sword and armours back, and stared at the door in front of him.  He was unwilling to go further and to meet more dangers, however, he knew the only way out was in. He slowly walked with his sword in his hands...

In the next room he could see a large tomb. He now knew what this place was... a tomb of a perhaps long forgotten warrior. But suddenly the tomb began to shine, and fireballs flew through the air... William jumped aside, and ran towards the statue, then hid behind it.
-What a restless warrior you are - he grasped, and looked around. He was struggling to find anything, which may help, but he could see nothing expect a book. Near the book there was a large hole in the ground. He took a deep breath, and ran towards the book now. He could feel as fireballs flew only missing him with bits, and could feel as these balls ignite his clothing - however, he knew he could not stop. He grabbed the book, and lied down into the hole. He quickly set the flames on his pants off, then opened the book.  It must have used to be a long one, as it was nearly as heavy as his sword, however, it was useless now. The ink which formed the letters now was faded almost totally... but William wanted to throw it away, a piece of paper fell out from it. He could hardly read it, but he could. He read it aloud, saying “Al gari enam ferat! Al gari itr fro! Tih xus atmi ferat!”. He could finish reading, as some kind of power burned the paper and the book, and lightning began to light the room. Meanwhile, William was struggling with some kind of force, which was aching his mind, heart, and was trying to weaken his soul...

Moments later he awoke. “Who are you?” he heard that voice again.
“Forget it. It doesn’t make any difference now... just show me yourself” the voice added, and William stood up. Whatever this thing was, he was too weak to fight with it.
“Ah, a human. I should have expected... welcome in this tomb, pinkskin” the voice said.
“Who are you?” William asked. He could only hope the voice would answer and not attack. “And where are you?” William quickly added.
“I am right in front of you” the voice replied, but William could only see the tomb in front of him.
“Yes, I am in the tomb. Should you open it, I would be glad” the voice said. It seemed to grow impatient...
William quickly wondered who could be in a tomb, then he realised that it will possibly be another adventurer who also got trapped here. He walked to the tomb, and pushed it’s large stone cover aside. He was much more surprised when a tiny, rainbow coloured dragoness fly out from it. Before William could say a word, the little dragoness suddenly changed into a dragoness with really considerable sizes.
“Is something wrong?” the dragoness asked William, who could not say even a word. He was thunderstruck...
“What... are you?” William asked, though he realised that asking ‘who are you’ would have been more diplomatic.
“I am dragon... a fairy dragon” the dragoness said, “I was buried here... I think. And now you awoke me.”
“I awoke you? Stop kidding. I do not even know a bit of magic...” William replied.
“You did. Somehow you did” the dragoness shook her head, and opened her wings. The wings shone with all colours of the rainbow, and it was an amazing sight, William had to admit.
“So this place is a tomb?” William asked.
“it is, indeed. I and my human fellow should have been buried here...” the dragoness nodded, then hastily said, “ah, I forgot to introduce myself. I am Star.”
“William Seymour” William bowed, and Star smiled.
“Welcome here, William... you said you never used magic before. Well, you have started practising it on the right person... I don’t know how, but you awoke me from death, and now I have to help you until one of us dies” Star explained, and suddenly William began to have a disturbing thought. What could that scroll he read contain...?
“So... you must help me all along then? You could perhaps start even now... with getting me out of here, perhaps” William said.
“Alright” Star nodded “one question. How did you overcome all the magic defences I cast here to keep my body in peace?”
“With luck” William said with some irony, and Star nodded, saying, “I’ll place some misfortune here also... thanks. Now, off from here then!”
Suddenly they were surrounded with some blue light, and in the next moment they were in a dark forest.
“Here you are” Star said.
“Thanks” William smiled, then asked, “What will you do now?”
“I think I will stay here for a while, and do some renovation on my tomb and it’s magic defence” Star replied.
“Well, it was nice to meet you then... farewell” William said, bowed and began to walk away.
“Farewell?” he heard the fairy dragonesses surprised voice.
“You stay here, but I have to go” William explained.
“I see... as I said, I have to aid you. Since you awoke me, this is my duty... and I shall fulfil all duties I have. However, I’d like to stay here for a while as I said... here, take this ring. With this you can summon me anytime you need me... also take this sword, please. It is the Featherblade, the blade of my former fellow... it served a noble human well, and it will, I think” Star said, and a ring and a blade materialised in front of William. The noble hesitated for a moment, then took the ring and the sword also.
“Well, just call me when you need” Star smiled, and disappeared. William took a look at the Featherblade, which shone with a faint white light, then took a look at his older sword - then threw his older sword away, and placed the Featherblade on his side. Then he took the ring on his finger, and began to walk... rather to say he wanted to walk, but he realised that he had no idea where his dragon party was...
“I should have asked Star where she took me to” William realised, but decided not to call back Star even now. He has seen enough laughing dragons even by then...

9. 	Riding the winds, riding the seas
Over the hills of Emar Katek

It was dawn when William finally found his team.
“Ah, Willy! What were you doing for so long? We were just about to send a team after you” Percival greeted him.
“I am not Willy. And I got lost in this forest” William said with some anger.
“And meanwhile you found a magical blade... did you find the Ancient’s Tomb?” a dragon said.
The Ancient’s Tomb...
For a moment, these words froze William’s heart - did someone follow him? But the harsh laughter in the next moment made him realise this was only a joke.
“No... I just found it in the forest. Next to a corpse” William replied, then added, “what is this tomb?”
“The tomb is nothing more than a legend. Dragons believe there was once a powerful dragoness and a human, who allied to prevent evil spread through the land... but I don’t believe in fairy tales” Percival said, when suddenly a dragoness said “They existed. They had to.”
“No, they did not.” Percival replied.
“They did” the dragoness replied.
“They didn’t.”
“They did.”
“No, they didn’t.”
“Oh yes, they did.”
A bit tired of this conversation, William quickly left to Talon. His dragon and Storm were still there, but now chatting.
“Ah, welcome back! I was just about to begin worry about you” Talon said.
“Couldn’t you sleep last night?” Storm asked, then she added “nice sword you found.”
“Thanks” William replied “I just took a night trip.”
“The real adventurer” Storm grinned toothily „just always get back in one piece, alright?”
”I do and I will” William laughed.
“Storm!” they heard Faren’s voice.
“Here” Storm shouted back, and soon they could see Faren himself.
“William, did you had to buy all these dragons? I followed one which looked exactly like Storm, and only lately I realised that she is not even she but he” Faren grasped. William began to laugh, and both Storm and Talon grinned toothily.
“Still better if the same would happen to me” Talon added.
“Serves you right if you can’t notice any different between me and another dragon” Storm smiled.
“Sorry ladies and gentlemen, but I suggest going on. We have lost enough time even now,” Percival said from Blaze’s back while the bonded flew over them.
“What’s this rush for?” Talon asked while William got on him.
“Workaholic” Faren said while he sat on Storm.
“Sorry for interruption, Sire, but do we have a destination, or are we just flying where the winds lead us to?” a dragon asked them.
“We have a destination” William nodded, and began to wonder what could he say...
“Stormbay” they heard Percival again. This answer really surprised William, as he didn’t even know such city exist...
“Stormbay? We will never make it there! We would need to cross the Dark Sea, and most of us can not make such a long flight!” a dragoness replied.
“You won’t fly that long. Only until we find some ships” William said, and he had a good, and perhaps evil thought.
“Ships?” the same dragoness, asked on a surprised voice.
“Yes, ships” William replied.
This reflected many different ideas. William thought of convincing the ships to join them, Faren thought of battling and capturing them, Percival was thinking how many money he needs to bribe the whole crew of a few ships.
The dragons had no idea what their leaders mean, since they knew they wouldn’t fit even a whole fleet. Only a few of them dared to wonder if their leaders also knew this...

They were flying fast... they travelled for a half-day, then the dragons slept and regained their power. After a few days, they were on the shore of the sea...
“Alright, what now?” Storm asked.
“Now we’ll buy a few ships” Percival said.
“Let’s make them join us” William offered.
“AMBUSH!” Faren shouted with his bow in his hands.
Since they all spoke at the same time, it quickly became clear that there were three really different thoughts how to get some ships. However, the dragons were not used to their leaders telling them different things...
“So, what should we do?” one of the asked.
William, Faren and Percival only looked at each other.
“First attack them, then bribe them and then talk to them?” Faren asked.
“To who will we talk after we attacked them?” William asked.
“You better decide fast, five ships are coming” an older dragon said while he stared at the sea.
“Follow me” Faren, William and Percival, said as they took off.
The remaining dragons had no ideas what to do, but after a few seconds of looking at each other they decided what to do. Everyone followed the leader with the most attractive idea to him- or herself.

The first two elven ships could not believe to their eyes... a dozen dragon flew at them. And since the elven council declared them to be hostile...
-Are they coming to take revenge? - the first lieutenant asked the captain.
-I don’t know - the captain said on a worrying voice.
-Sire, we are already running out of arrows - an archer said.
The captain sighed. He already knew that also.
The dragons came nearer and nearer, and the captain could see they were lead by some kind of a dragon with a rider. The ridden dragon landed, while the other dragons flew in circles above them. The captain could see another dragonrider landing on one of his two remaining ships, and could see a third dragon party moving towards two other elven vessels far away.
-Good day, Sire - the human dragonrider said as he dismounted his blue dragon.
-Good day to you also - the captain nodded - what brings you here?
-We need your ship - the human said - and your services also.
The captain astonished. This was a clear offer to trait the Elven Council!
-No way - the captain shook his head.
-I did not ask - the human said slowly - since someone above us also need it...
The captain swallowed. The human was right... he wasn’t really in the position to deal.
-But to make sure your loyalty, I offer a deal - the human said - you join me, and I will pay you.
-How can I be sure you won’t trait me? - the captain asked with a suspicious look.
-You don’t need to be sure about that. But you will surely make it alive - the human said with an evil grin.
The captain took another look at the dozen dragons above, and nodded.
-Alright. I agree your terms... - he sighed.
Suddenly loud sounds of cheer could be heard, and everyone looked at the two other ships, were the crew began to dance.
-Whata... - Blaze asked.
-William must be acting on his own - Percival shook his head.
-William? - the captain asked.
-My friend - Percival said while he kept staring at the other two ships.
-I wonder what did he offer - the captain said.
Suddenly they heard some sounds of fighting, and saw the two vessels far away begin to shoot at the dragons, which fired back. Quite literally, since a ship was even now on fire.
-That’s Faren, alright - Blaze nodded.
-So much of co-ordinated assaults - Percival shook his head.
Meanwhile, the captain and the crew got a good show what could have happened to them, since the two ships far away were now sunk as they got torched to the water. The two ships of the captain, now lead by William slowly moved to the right side of Percival’s ship.
-Did you see that? - William asked.
-Yes... well, at least we know that these dragons are indeed good to fight” - Percival wondered, then asked - and what did you do? I only heard the cheer of some kind of crowd...
-I only offered a few things to my new, and loyal crew - William smiled - like their own ship, and the wine in the cargo....
Looking at Percival’s dumb looking, William realised he should explain a bit more.
-I told them that they could have the ship once we make it to our destination, and meanwhile they can freely use... hmm.... drink the wine in the cargo - William said.
-I see. The shortest to a sailor’s heart is down it’s throat, eh? - Percival asked, then turned to the captain - Now, my first order. Throw everything unnecessary into the water.
-What should we consider unnecessary? - the captain asked.
-The weapons onboard, some furniture, the not eat- or drinkable cargo - Percival said.
-Et, Milord - the captain nodded, and shouted the new orders.
-All weapons, furniture, not consumable cargo into the water! - he shouted.
-Yes, sire! - the whole crew shouted back, and soon the water was filed with every kind of things.
-If I can ask, why did we need to throw these out? - the captain asked.
-Since we will need lots of free space on your ship.. and if we put dragons onboard with that cargo also being here, your ships would sink - Blaze said.
-Dragons? On my ships...?  - the captain asked astonished, but in the same moment three dragons landed on his ship, and around the same number of dragons landed on the other two ships also.
-Okay Blaze, this is your time. Organise the fly-teams, so some dragons can rest while the rest of them will keep flying - Percival said, and the dragoness nodded.
-Hey, Percival! One thing - they heard William - from where shall we get food now? It was okay dragons hunting in the mountains, but what now?
-Dragons and crew fishing - Percival wondered.
-FISHING? - Talon asked astonished. Percival had to realise that these dragons lived in the mountains so far, and had probably not even seen such amount of water before... Due to this they could not fish or perhaps swim, he also had to realise.
-It is not so hard, Blaze will show them how to do - Percival replied. He ignored the few things, which Blaze murmured then.

10. 	A short conquest
Stormbay, Twilight Isle

Although they wanted to land in Stormbay, they must have had lost the right direction, since they now landed on a plain coast.
-We made it! - an elf shouted, and the other began to cheer.
William also smiled... at took them nearly a week to get here, but finally, they were here. And what was more important, they made it without loosing even a single dragon or elf. “Or human” William quickly added in himself.
-What now? - Talon asked.
The question was a good one, William had to admit. He was always wondering on new plans, strategies, however, he could never find a good one. Suddenly he began to have a good thought...
-Everyone, listen to me! Who wants to have an isle, and to live without being bothered? - he shouted.
The crowd around him fell silent.
William knew that the dragons would follow him to death - it was their nature to follow their leader. However, William would have liked the elves also follow him.
-What do you mean? - a dragoness asked.
-I mean, we should capture this isle - William smiled.
The silence broke as the crowd began to speak again...

William knew why. This was the speciality of the Twilight Isle. It never really belonged to any kingdom, since an isle far away was hard to secure. The shipments going there and coming back were easy to hunt by hostile pirates, and the continental wars took too many soldiers to make such an expansion affordable. The isle mainly consisted of mountains, which made the isle easy to defend, but also left little space for towns and such. But there was something more...
William also heard the legends and myths of Darenzol, a mighty demon, who once lived here. It was spoken that these times the Isle was covered by black clouds night and day and sun could never be seen from here. The beast ruled the land for a hundred year, then it was banished by the allied dwarven-elven-human army. Even though banished from this world, the demon is expected to return any time by the myths... Although William did not believe in such things, some really did. The best example for the belief in this myth was the cult, which tried everything to bring his master back... William knew that he has to fight with the elves’ fear first; then the rest will go on thanks to the combined power of the dragons-elves.

-The island is protected by Darenzol. We will not fight with eternal beings! - an elf shouted.
-Darenzol does not exist. Even if he did once, which I doubt, he must have been banished since he is not here anymore - William replied.
-But he can return! - the same voice answered.
-And then he can be defeated again as once happened - William replied, and some dragons cheered on the answer. William could not decide if this was due to their war morale, or if they knew this would be impossible with such power they had.
-And what would we have to do if we agree? - another elf asked.
-You will help me in the siege of Nightcastle - William said. Nightcastle was the only bigger town of Twilight Isle; the one who owned that town owned the whole isle. The elven captain walked out of the crowd, and stood in front of William.
-If you let us build ourselves a new town here after the victory, we gladly join your ranks - he said.
“A new town” William slowly repeated the words in his mind. “Seems the Council is not really popular at these parts...” he added in himself.
-Alright - William nodded. The elves cheered, and left to get their weapons from the ships.
-Weren’t those supposed to be thrown into water? - Storm asked.
-These are smugglers. Don’t expect them to destroy their own weapons willingly - Faren replied.
-Smugglers? I thought these were part of the elven army - William said astonished.
-No... such elves would never ally with you - Faren smiled.

Hours later, the so-called army was moving towards Nightcastle. All the elves were dressed in black, showing that they are renegades... both William and Talon were surprised how proud the elves were at being renegades. Faren shook his head - his seemed to dislike that black clothed elves, however, there was very less he could do against it. And, at sunset, they could see the tall towers of Nightcastle.

As its name tells, Nightcastle was built from black stone, mined from the hills of Stormbay. The towers were tall and thin, despite this it was well known they could sustain more damage than a normal castle.  The walls were extremely tough, and were so thick that even a dragon could fit into such sizes. And William had no artillery.
As they approached the town, they began to have strange feelings... fears, worries. They knew that this might their very last battle...

William held his hand up, and the army stopped. Suddenly they saw Blaze flying over the town. The dragoness did a few circles, and then flew back, and landed in front of William.
-This town is deserted - she said.
-I noticed also. Noone shot at you... could you see any reason for this? - William asked. Everyone behind him began to murmur, and William also began to shiver.... How could a whole town become deserted?
-I have seen nothing unusual. Anyway, this place seems to be deserted for a while now... many houses are in ruins; the towers and the wall are also in bad condition. I think the last people left this city months ago - Blaze said and turned her head back to take another look at the town.
Suddenly the gates of Nightcastle lowered. Every elf took his bow, ready to fire. Many dragons took off, and waited for William’s signal to engage....
But when William saw who lowered the gate, he cheered.
His knights were there!

-Whatho, my lord! - the templar greeted him, then took a look at the dragons - it seems your team has increased a bit since I last saw you.
-How did you get here? And what happened here, anyway? - William asked.
-We got here by following the orders we were given - the knight said and looked at Percival, then went on saying - This city is deserted, my lord. Nearly the whole isle is... the few ones who remain are in the port of Stormbay, sleeping on ships prepared to set sail any moment.
-What is this... haste for? - Talon asked.
-They fear of two things... the dwarven-elf war began weeks ago, and there were some big battles.  Imor Fatan is now on dwarven hands, and I heard there were some battles where thousands got killed. Anyway, the Elven Navy was on full alarm when we began our journey - the templar explained.
-And what is the other thing? - Talon asked curiously.
-They fear the return of Darenzol, which Roin promises to happen soon - the templar replied.
-Roin? - William asked.
-The leader of that cult - the templar answered.
William nodded, then he said - Alright, the city is ours then! Templar, send two of your men to Stormbay, and tell the people that now I rule this land, and I ask them to come back to Nightcastle. Meanwhile, the dragons will start some building work, and you, elves - you are free to start building your city as I promised.

11. 	Infinity
Twilight Isle, Nightcastle

Although only a few days passed, the city had a totally different looking. The remaining humans from Stormbay came to Nightcastle when they heard a new landlord arrived, and they began the reconstruction. Only a few did not come, since William sent them back to the main continent to hire more troops. The work was going fast, since while the humans did the masonry and other work, the dragons could carry the things needed. “Flying heavy transport for rent, cost only one sheep” as Faren said once. Only the dragons had some problems, since they did not really fancy the idea of living in houses, but the mountains of the isle did not really had any caves. So they had to carve a few for themselves...
Although William didn’t know who occupied the city before, he had to admit they have left really fast, as they left all the vaults and banks full with gold. Realising this, Blaze hastily declared herself as the economical leader, and ever since she was guarding the gold. The other strange thing William noticed was Talon and Storm quite literally disappeared since the city was captured...

William stared at the sea through the windows of his new castle. He smiled... he had never even thought he would make it this far. He now had his own army, and his own isle. His own. These words were so unusual for him... he heard banging on his door. This made him remember some quite bad memories...
An elf entered the room.
-You called for me, Sire? - he asked while bowed.
-I did. You are Shadow, the Assassin, aren’t you? - William asked while he took a seat in front of the elf, who also sat down.
-I am - the elf nodded, while a servant brought them some wine.
-I have a task for you - William said and he took his glass into his hand - it won’t be easy. But you also won’t be un rewarded.
-My ears are wide open - Shadow smiled, and drank from his wine.
-As I learned from my dragons, there is a so-called dragonlord, Flame, living somewhere in the hills of Emar Katek - William began - He had a mate, Spring. However, that dragoness got killed in a fight lately.
-Your information is true, Sire. And what is your request? - the assassin asked.
-Before Spring died, she gave birth to a son, I am I right? - William asked.
-Correct. That hatchling was named Claw... Should I assassinate him? - the assassin offered, but William shook his head.
-No. I have no business in killing him. - he replied.
-Then? What is my job? - Shadow asked.
-Bring Claw here alive, and leave a message there so Flame will know where to go - William said slowly.
-So you want me to kidnap the only son of the leader of one of the strongest dragon tribes, and also leave a message to him who did this? This isn’t easy for sure..... rather insane - the assassin said, and drank more from his wine, then added - Nice wine. Good tasting.
-It is elven made - William smiled - so? You refuse?
-I only said it is insane... but if I’d be sane I wouldn’t be an assassin - Shadow smiled, then added - however, alone I won’t be enough for this mission. I need a little company.
-Four or five dragons will do it? - William asked.
-Hmm, you send dragons to aid me in this kidnap? The idea is good, they would surely be able to move unnoticed. But would they assist in such a mission? Kidnapping a hatchling? - Shadow asked with raised eyebrows.
-They will. Trust me, they will... in case no blood will flow. As long as you do not harm any dragon, they will be completely loyal to you - William said.
-I take it then - Shadow nodded - when shall I leave?
-Now. Those dragons are waiting at the town gates. Good luck, Shadow... and do not forget. I need that dragon alive - William said.
-Don’t worry, you’ll get intact - Shadow grinned toothily and left.

William stared at the leaving party. He wondered what will happen if they fail...
-I wonder what Flame will think when he’ll realise what happen and get your message - Blaze said.
William turned back in a moment. He did not hear the dragoness coming in - she must have used one of her spells, the noble realised.
-Probably he won’t think anything, but come here as soon as he will be able to - William said, and turned back towards the window.
-Are you sure? - Blaze asked - he is perhaps more intelligent you think him to be.
-I am sure. He will come, as he will only listen to his emotions in that case - William made a sad smile - I know how he would react when it comes to his own and only son.
-Ah, the little tricky leader - Blaze made a toothy grin - I only wonder if Flame will send a thief back as a reply.
-Dragons do not really use thieves. Your kind is just too straight for this - William said on a sad voice, and thought „And I, the Noble human use such dirty tricks. Somewhere the world must be wrong.”
-Not every of my kind is straight. Remember Crystal, even if her greediness brought you luck - Blaze replied.
-Not every. But Flame is... I have heard enough of him - William replied, still staring through the window.
Blaze laughed.
-You count on his weakness? - she asked, and William nodded.
-Since I can’t rely on anything else - William replied.
Blaze nodded, and wanted to go. Only wanted, since the ceiling fall on her. William knew the building was recently rebuild, but he did not think it was in such a condition. With looking above he slowly walked to Blaze.
-Where are those builders?! - William shouted once he was there - And bring a healer!
-No healer, please - Blaze groaned as she tried to get up.
-You are badly hit, you need that - William shook his head, then added - but I also posses some healing magic... I learnt it from the elves here.
-No healing magic! - Blaze groaned, but she lacked the power even to get up. William ignored her comments, as he knew the dragoness was surely only had too much pride, but it was obvious she needed help. William whispered the few words which were needed to help, and he could feel his heart pound faster while he could feel his veins contain more blood as usual. As usual when using water based spells, William nodded. But when he finished the spell, his heart nearly froze. Blaze screamed for an instance, and then felt silent - into unconsciousness.

“I must have done something wrong” William thought, and wondered what to do. He quickly walked to his chest, and took his blade out into his hands - it might be useful when he’ll have to tell his servants what happened. Their master killing the dragon of a bonded - with a wrongly cast healing spell! While taking a short look at the weary dragoness, William hastened his movement and accidentally kicked into his own feet. He fell onto the ground like a statue, and his sword fell on Blaze’s tail. William got up with a yawn and several curse, than took a look at the blade. The blade shone with so strong white colour, even preventing William to look directly here.
William forgot nearly about everything.... from a sage, he learned when the Featherblade shines up. When it is close to some eternal beings.....
Demons, undeads....

William was still in his thoughts, when Blaze began to move. She was beginning to recover and to regain her consciousness. Suddenly William realised he is in a trap - that dragoness looking something was blocking the way out from the room, and he was too far from his Featherblade now. With a bittersweet grin, William looked at Blaze finally becoming more or less herself again.
-I told not to cast healing - she groaned slowly and on a faint voice, then took a look at William, and asked - Why are you staring at me?
-What are you? - William asked.
-I am not “what” but „who” - Blaze replied on an offended voice, then added - and, you are right.... I am no real dragoness. Rather a strange undead one.
-Undead - William replied shrugged.
-I am not a lich or anything, don’t look at me like this. At least now you know why I never wanted to meet the Order - Blaze said as she stared at the floor. This made her look as if she felt really sorry, but this didn’t make William think friendlier of her.
-But you are an undead. This can’t be done by accident - William replied.
-It can be, believe me - Blaze sighed.
-If you tell me how, I will - William sat down.
-It is a long story - Blaze sighed again, and began talking on her weak voice - it was long when I was born. My family didn’t last long, as my parents didn’t stay together for too long after my birth. Soon I found myself an “orphan dragon”. Then the servants of the forming Order came, and took me with themselves. I had a relatively good life with them - they gave me food, they provided a shelter above my head, they taught me how to live... and what is most important to me, they cared with me. This way I met Percival, who was a young knight from a distant land. He was assigned to care for me. We slowly learnt everything about each other, and began to trust each other. As you can guess, this way we became bonded. After that, we had a joyous life - the Order had no real opponents, it was just a great community to live in. We seldom had to fight; we spent most of our time with each other. It was called the “Golden Age”, both for us and for the Order. However, there were facts even the Order could not do anything against. When nearly five hundred years passed since my birth, Percival and I faced the problem noone can deny. Even I was beginning to become old, and I could feel my final day coming closer and closer... but we wanted to live, we desperately wanted a way to remain alive - to enjoy our lives. One day, I found that I could not stand up - I knew the greatest hunter was coming.  Percival could also feel my weakness, since he aged with me. However, he was luckier than me. He found a book, with what he said “we can live forever”. He was right... as he cast the spell written there, I could feel myself becoming young again, my power returning. It was a miracle, and I cannot describe my feelings in words now. Not only my life was saved, but my former self was also restored. We thought we have cheated Death itself, and we have broken the laws of the World. But, as in all times - these gifts also came with a great toll... - Blaze paused here for a moment - I was granted with a never ending youth, but I lost my life also. As time passed, we realised the spell could only keep us alive and young in one way - by turning us into undeads. If we didn’t live, we didn’t age, it was simple. And for us, ones who nearly died, being undead was no price to be alive. Ultimately, as time passed we became more undead, and one day, we became totally undeads. We are not insane and emotionless beings, you could see... we are an exact copy of our former selves, living forever without living literally. We aren’t rotting and walking corpses, you can touch me - even my heart pounds.
-If there is no sign of your being undead, how can you be? - William asked suspiciously.
-It was a special spell... and you could see how I reacted to the healing spell. For the same reason do I never get too close to sacred buildings... and I am quite vulnerable to water - Blaze replied.
-But dead hearts do not pound... the dead body is still - William asked again. He could hardly believe.
-My heart pounds since my body needs it... there is no magic in me which keeps my body working like in the usual undead bodies... so my life functions remain normal. Mainly that’s why it is hard to spot my secret... for eyes who do not possess enough magic - Blaze explained on a low voice.
William slowly nodded. Now he understood why Blaze and Percival were so clever and rich - they could easily learn and gain so much in such a long life.
-And why does the Order hunt you if you are the exact copy of yourselves? - William asked.
-Because we are undeads... and undeads are recognised as evil beings - Blaze said, and looked at William - But I am not evil. I just wanted to be young forever...
-I know - William nodded. He could feel he could trust the dragoness, although he couldn’t think of a reason why. “Perhaps I don’t even need a reason... emotions dot need no reasons anytime” William tried to calm his suspiciousness.
-And what now? - Blaze asked.
-What do you want? Nothing happened here, just the ceiling fell on you - William grinned toothily, and Blaze also forced a slight smile.

12. 	Deeper and deeper
Twilight Isle, Nightcastle

The days flew like fast and little birds, and William began to understand Blaze more and more. Sometimes he also wished to live forever...
-...and I believe this information is true - the advisor ended his speech. William nodded, but didn’t hear too much of the long, and really boring speech. The Cult of Darenzol was surely planning something, this wasn’t such serious information. William only wanted to know what. “Most probably taking over the isle” William thought, and smiled. If they try, they will learn the fury of a human lord! Meanwhile, the advisor took a few steps to the door, looked out, and nodded then said -Sire, Shadow returned.
This took William by surprise. He expected the assassin to return in a week or two, not in a few days’ time.
-Let him in then - William nodded. The advisor opened the door, and Shadow came in. Then the advisor left the room with silently closing the door.
-You made it faster than I expected - William said. Shadow grinned toothily, and placed a big bag on the table. As William looked into it, he could see the two small but glowing eyes looking back.
-Because I am the best - Shadow laughed - and where is my payment? - then he asked on a serious voice.
William placed a leather bag on the table. Shadow opened it, and it was full with gold. The assassin nodded.
-What about the message? - William asked.
-Flame is surely on his way here if he didn’t get a heart attack when he read it - Shadow replied.
-Very well then. Just to let you know - we have never seen each other - William said.
Shadow nodded, saying - I never entered this isle.
The assassin left, and William opened the bag left for him, then took the little dragon out. Although his legs and mouth were tied, the little dragon seemed to be more or less calm. With a slight smile, William cut the ropes, then asked - What’s your name?
The little dragon stared at him, obviously not knowing what to do. He likely never left the cave he lived in, William realised.
-Claw - the little dragon replied.
-Very well, Claw... do you want to see other dragons? - William asked, and knew what the answer will be - every being is curious when young. Claw smiled and suddenly seemed to become really anxious to walk - he jumped off the table, and sat down in front of the door. William grinned toothily on this haste, then took the little dragon into his hands, and walked out from the room. He was thinking of giving Claw to Storm, who would take care of him while Flame arrives. William passed two corners, and finally entered a big hall, which was full of elven soldiers, who all became silent when William entered.
-Anyone seen Storm? - William asked.
-Not for a few days... and neither your Talon, my lord - someone replied.
Although William did not really believed in scandals, now even he was anxious to learn what his dragon was up to with Storm on his side. However, he needed a reliable dragoness fast. He suddenly got a really good idea, and walked back to his room. There he took the ring he got from Star, and was just about to summon the dragoness, when he realised what she forgot to tell him - how to use the ring.  While thinking how could he use it, or what to do with it, he placed the ring on the table, and began to walk in circles. In a few minutes, he heard some strange sounds, and looking at his table he saw the Claw was playing with his things on his table - including that ring.
-Claw, put that ring down! - William shouted. This shout took Claw by surprise, and William could see how shocked he became. And William could also see something - the little dragon swallowing the ring. Now it was William’s turn to get shocked, and with his first thought he took Claw into his hands, and placed his hand on the dragon’s neck. Claw was breathing a bit fast, but it was only due to the excitement, William knew. Now he had one less trouble - Claw was alright, he didn’t suffocate due to the ring. But now the ring was gone... William slowly and cautiously placed Claw on the ground, who began to look at the noble, who was staring at the distance, wondering what to do now... In the next moment, William could hear Claw crying... the little dragon realised he did something wrong. William closed his eyes, tried to not think of his aching head, and then began to pet Claw’s head, who now fell silent. Suddenly some strange fog filled the room, and when it was gone, Star was to be seen in the middle of the room.
-You called me? - she asked.
-I? - William asked back, who was a bit late at this moment.
-You poured water on the ring, didn’t you? - Star asked on a suspicious voice. She couldn’t really understand why the “pouring some water on the ring” expression made William grin toothily.
-I did - William nodded.
-Alright... - Star said - what do you need me to do?
-Take care of him - William gave Claw to Star, and the dragoness suddenly looked a bit taken aback.
-I? ...but... - she said, but William ignored her comment, and said - And make him feel home here! - as he left the room. He couldn’t hear the various palette of curses, damns, and other useful expressions which Star said at him.

-Repairs are going well, my lord. We expect the most necessary defensive buildings be ready by next week - the master mason said, and added - we are going faster than we expected.
-I hope this haste won’t decrease quality - William replied.
-This haste is thanks to the dragons’ help... they are pretty helpful around - the mason said, and pointed at the band of dragons, which carried stones for the builders. Suddenly the dragons halted, and stared at the same location with widened eyes and open mouth. Some of them even sat down.
It was quite an unusual sight, and when looking there William realised what was going on - Star left the castle. No doubt, the rainbow coloured dragoness was a beautiful look even to the human or elven eyes, but was literally knockout for the draconic eyes.
-Where did that come from? - a mason asked while he looked at Star.
-I rather want to know where she sleeps - a dragon nearby replied.
William rather wanted to know where Claw was... he couldn’t see the little dragon at Star.
-Okay, get back to work! We need to get that wall done, or else we won’t be paid today! - An elf shouted, and everyone got back to work. However, William could easily notice the dragons were only physically here now...
-That’s a tower. Those ladders are good for building them - William could hear Blaze’s voice behind him. Looking back he saw the dragoness explaining Claw the usage of different things. This picture astonished him first - but then he reminded himself that Blaze was still like her former self, expect one thing.
-She’s a good mother - someone said, and William realised that Claw was now thought as Blaze’s son...  William now had to realise he might have misjudged Blaze. She was indeed not a simple undead dragon.
-Dragons incoming! - a guard shouted from a tower. An elf closed his eyes, and drew fiery runes into the air, then said - It is Flame.
-So early? - William asked astonished. Even Shadow was faster than he thought, but Flame’s quick arrival totally took him by surprise. However, he reminded himself he could have counted with this - if Flame left his home fast, he could have travelled with nearly the same speed as Shadow with his dragons. When looking around, William could see that the situation in the castle was a bit chaotic - the archers were getting on the walls, the other fighters to their weapon racks, and the dragons were just standing, waiting for William’s command - all at once. However, everyone was nearly in place when Flame arrived.
The dragon leader was indeed a big gold dragon, William noticed. He slowly landed in the middle of the castle, not really caring with the fact the archers may shoot at him, like at any intruder. However, the companions of Flame weren’t so brave - they only flew slowly in circles around the castle. Many, mainly the dragons were astonished to see Flame here - William could only smile on this. Noone else knew why Flame came here, and William had a good reason not to tell them...
-Welcome here, Leader - William said with trying to hide his smile. Flame only stared at him, obviously not finding the right words to express himself. William realised Flame does not know who he faces, so the noble said - I see you got my letter.
Flame only groaned and growled as an answer, then finally said - Greetings.
-I think we better speak with each other in a more silent environment... follow me - William said, and headed back into the castle, into his room. He knew Flame will be upset, to say diplomatically, but he also knew Flame is a smart dragon - he won’t risk the life of his son with attacking at William. Not yet.

-Where is he? - Flame asked when they got into the room. William first quickly and unnoticeably checked the Featherblade attached to his belt, then replied - In safety.
-Where? - Flame asked again, more loud this time.
-Here, in this castle. In safety, as I said - William replied - and he will remain in safety if you do the right things.
-DO THE RIGHT THINGS?! - Flame groaned when he realised what William meant.
-Yes, my dear dragon lord - William smiled, and took a seat.
-And what do you want from me?! - Flame asked with showing his teeth. William did not really like Flame behaving this way...
-Not much - the noble replied - just a little thing... like changing your home...
-Both the elves and the dwarves decided to wipe us out from where we live. Neither they will win, nor you will succeed! - Flame grinned toothily.
-But they didn’t hold your son - William made an evil grin - and I don’t want to wipe you out, anyway. I have no problems with dragons, you can see them living here.
-How noble you are to hide behind my son! - Flame groaned, and added - Then what do you want?
-Come here - William smiled - all of you.
Flame literally shrugged.
-I won’t be your servant - he slowly shook his head.
-You wouldn’t be. I only ask you to come here - William replied.
-Come on, William... that’s your name, right? I know what moving here would mean, and I won’t pass the lives of my dragons into your hands! - Flame shook his head - Not for even my own life.
-And not for even someone else’s? - William asked. Flame suddenly burnt the table in front of William into ashes... William had to concentrate really hard to stay sitting in his chair without showing how much he began to fear.
-How dare you...! - Flame hissed.
-Who can destroy something is who can control it, both of us knows, Flame! Do not test my patience! - William hissed back. He didn’t want to show he was indeed running out of something... but that wasn’t patience but belief in his success. Flame slowly walked into the window, and then began to stare at something... William could see he was looking at Star.
-A cute dragoness, eh? - William asked, but for his biggest surprise, Flame only did a bittersweet grin.
-All that glitters is not gold - the gold dragon replied - I did not love Spring for only her look-like. And I need no sarcastic remarks for my mate.
-I wasn’t sarcastic - William murmured, when suddenly the door opened. An templar knight entered the room, looking backwards.
-Sire, I have some new - the templar began, when he realised Flame’s presence. The templar did a confused smile, and with a blushed face he took a few steps back with adding - I’m sorry, my lord, I’ll be back in a better time.
Flame made a toothily grin, which disappeared from his face when they could hear Claw’s voice, saying “This is a really big castle! I would get lost here if I would be alone”. William could see that this voice made Flame change - the strong and proud dragon lord suddenly seemed to be broken. For a moment, William felt sorry for him. For a moment he was near to think his struggling for vengeance will bring nothing than pain and suffering... and not only to him.
But this was only for a moment. In the next moment he reminded himself for his oath, and decided to not give up. Not when things were on the way.
-I think I consider your offer - Flame said slowly.
-Claw, come back here... keep a distance from that mage before you find yourself in a chicken form - they heard Blaze with a faint laughter at the end.
-Yes mum - Claw replied. Claw calling Blaze her mother really surprised William...  but the sentence’s effect on Flame was quite indescribable. The gold dragon kept repeating the word “mother” silently. William quickly realised the word “mother” reminded Flame of Spring.
-I feel... weak. Give me a room or something to rest in - Flame said slowly and a faint voice. William nodded, and told the templar to lead Flame into an unoccupied room. Then William slowly placed the Featherblade on the table, and wondered “what now”.

Flame slowly followed the knight into a room. But he couldn’t stop thinking of his son, and that dragoness... mother.  He could not leave this word. He could not stop thinking of it... he never heard Claw calling anyone since Spring left them. He was becoming more and more anxious to see who was that mother. Perhaps someone for who it was worth coming here.... He might be thankful for that stupid human noble for leading him here, after all.

13. 	On the track
Twilight Isle, Nightcastle

William was organising the arrival of the new armies... it took longer than he did though. He was thinking of hours, and now he was doing the plans for longer than a day...  He hired more human and elven mercenaries and troops to aid him in his coming wars. He was about to get a headache of fixing the housing problems, which seemed to arise; no matter how many houses he has ordered to be built up. Now he gave a silent prayer for the dragons living in caves, and not in houses...
-Sire, some dragons left the island recently. It seems they are heading back towards the continent - a lieutenant said.
-Flame..? - William asked while he kept looking at the table, filled with all kind of plans.
-He is still here, in the castle - the lieutenant replied. William forced a slight smile. Then he took a step back from the papers, and said - I feel exhausted. I return to my room... go on with designing.
-Sure. Rest, you need it - Percival nodded.
With a heavy head William left the room. The stars were shining bright... The chilly air made him wake a bit up, and could feel his head clearing a bit. However, he could still feel he needs some sleep now...

He slowly opened his door, and lied down on his bed. He just wanted to place his blade on the table, when he realised the poor furniture was burnt to ashes in his conversation with Flame.
...Flame!
He now remembered he was informed of dragons leaving the island. They weren’t from his group of dragons, so they had to be Flame’s. William now decided to ask Flame why did he send them back. So he slowly got up, and walked out from his room. He was told which is Flame’s room, so he could easily find it... It was a special one anyway; one of the few which was big enough for a dragon to fit in. It wasn’t really used before, and it was big enough even for more dragons at once. William was just about to knock on the door of the room when he heard Blaze’s voice. He could not understand what the dragoness said, but he could recall that voice. However, Blaze’s presence here was astonishing to William...
-You are quite similar to Spring, you know - he could hear Flame.
-Thank you - Blaze replied. Then William couldn’t hear anything, so he assumed they were in silence.
-Did you ever wondered of having a family? - William heard Flame asking.
Although he could only guess, William knew that in that moment Blaze was the some astonished as him... Flame wasn’t so direct before. -If you ask me... - he heard Blaze replying after a little silence. William slowly walked backwards, and went back to his room. He didn’t really care with other being’s personal lives, but this conversation astonished him. He thought both Blaze and Flame be different...
He lied down on his bed. He was tired... so tired. He closed his eyes, and fall into sleep immediately.

He awoke to hear strange noises... like someone hammering the wall of his room. William yawned, and wondered how late it could be... but he had no ideas. He slowly stood up, and walked out from his room. It was still dark outside, so he could guess it was night. He looked around, and headed towards the source of the hammering voice... for his biggest surprise he could see Talon hitting the wall with a large piece of wood. William hasn’t seen Talon for a while, and this “return” was indeed a strange one...
-What are you doing here? - William asked him. Talon took a short look at him, and replied - Making noise.
-I can hear that - William yawned - but could you stop that? And anyway, where were you for so long?
-I was just wondering - Talon replied - and I am only bringing someone out of my room.
William realised Flame’s room was actually Talon’s also. He forgot to assign a different one to the dragon leader.
-You won’t bring him out - William said - and anyway, with who did you wonder around?
-He will come out, like you - Talon said, and added - and anyway, I was goofing around with Storm— - but there he cut his sentence, and placed his arm on his face. William realised maybe he wasn’t supposed to know this.
-If you go on hammering, the whole castle will be here... and then you will be a dragon scale shield - William yawned again.
-Any better ideas? - Talon asked on worried voice.
-Tell Flame that rooms is big enough for all of you.... and anyway, you will get a new one tomorrow. After I slept a little - William replied, then thought of what he heard - anyway, what were you doing with Storm?
For a moment Talon forced a bittersweet grin, then said -Nothing bad.
-It all depends what we consider ‘bad’ - William replied. But despite his good logic, he didn’t know what to consider as bad or right... he could only he needs a bed a long sleep. Badly.
-Nothing at all - Talon said while staring at the distance. William nodded, and said - Okay, I believe. I was just being curious a bit. Anyway, stop making any noise and all will be fine.
Ending his sentence, William went back to his room and lied down onto his bed again. Then fall back into sleep.

William woke up slowly.... then he began to feel uncomfortable. Opening his eyes and looking out from his room he realised it was nearly noon. He slowly got up, and touched his aching side. “The contra of sleeping even in your chain mail” William thought. Then he slowly walked out from his room. He was just going out of the castle, when he saw Blaze on a corridor.
-Hey there! - William yelled, and the blue dragoness turned back, and made a toothy grin.
-Anything exciting going on? - William asked her, when he walked closer.
-Well, nothing serious. I’m just looking for another room for myself and for Flame... - Blaze said.
-You sleep in one room? Love for the first sight - William laughed faintly.
-Well, I do not need to hide this. Flame is just enlightening everyone who he meets. - Blaze replied.
-Oh, I see - William nodded - you really turned his head then.
Blaze didn’t reply, just look around with a faint smile.
-Have you seen Talon? - William asked.
-Yes, his still in the room... - Blaze replied, and added - with Storm, I assume.
-With who? - William asked astonished, then he remembered the conversation with Talon last night.
-With Storm... they slept all night with Talon hugging Storm over. They are so cute.... - Blaze grinned toothily.
William didn’t know what to get rather surprised on - on Storm and Talon, or on Blaze herself. He began to wonder if he brought the right ones with himself... he slowly wandered outside the castle, while Blaze began to walk again, looking for a room big enough.

William sitting on a pile of stones, wondering. He sat there for hours, but he realised he couldn’t think of too much things... “wasted time” as he realised.
-What is my dear lord wondering of? - he heard a sarcastic voice, and immediately realised it was Percival speaking.
-Just thinking of redesigning this island - William replied.
-And how? - Percival asked on a suspicious voice.
-Putting signs out.
-Signs...? - the knight asked with widened eyes.
-Yes, signs. “Isle of Love. If you need four or more dragons, you only need to bring two” - William said.
Percival laughed, and said - I see the point, pal. You are right, but what can we do of it?
-Nothing. I didn’t say we need to do anything. It’s just... strange to me - William sighed.
-Look, pal - Percival sat down next to William - if Blaze will ever get into a close relationship with Flame, I will be the one to worry. Not you are bonded with her... you should be happy they feel themselves at home so much. This shows your good ability to lead.
-I didn’t say it is bad or anything... it just strange - William shook his head.
-I wonder what would you do if you would have been hunted, and then you would suddenly arrive to a place where you are legal to exist - Percival said, and William nodded.
-And what about Blaze? - William asked then.
-I think she is just being young again... but truly this time - Percival said. William couldn’t see the meaning of the knight’s words for a while... and then he realised what Percival tried to say. Blaze was also running since they became undeads - she was probably always fighting, running, fighting and running again. Now she met someone who she fell into, and now she is beginning to ‘live’ again, William realised.
-Hi, my noble warriors, do you mind if I join? - they heard Faren, who sat down without asking anything more.
-Welcome, my dear master of archery - Percival smiled - how is it going?
-Nothing unusual. I broke another bow - Faren smiled as he took a half bow into his hand.
-You are the biggest supporter of the bow-makers - Percival said with an evil smile.
-I could talk of someone else supporting the smithy, one hour Percival - Faren smiled back.
-One hour Percival? - William asked surprised.
-It takes him one hour to break even the finest sword - Faren laughed, and Percival a bladeless sword into his hand.
-Sad, but it’s true... I am just too powerful for these toys - the knight laughed.
-And you tell me - Faren looked at the broken bow-piece.
-Sorry for interrupting guys, but can you see that big black spot there? - William asked, and pointed with his finger at a black cloud, far away.
-A rain cloud - Faren flicked.
-If that’s a cloud, it’s moving really fast - Percival jumped up.
-But what’s that? - William asked.
-Crows, perhaps ravens - Faren said while slowly standing up.
-Ducks - Percival said.
-Swarm of bees, perhaps? - William said with narrowed eyes.
-DRAGONS! - someone shouted.

As everyone realised what was heading towards the castle, the “Operation PANIC” began. Everybody running in the most various directions, often colliding someone else doing the same. Only a few ones seemed to be calm still. Flame, Blaze, Storm and Talon were looking as if this was natural. Claw didn’t understand anything, but with his childish mind he thought this is only a game. William, Percival and Faren wondered what to do, still. The two parties accidentally met in the chaos.
-What are these doing? - Claw asked.
-Running - Flame and William replied in the same moment.
-And why? - Claw asked again.
-I don’t know - Flame shook his head.
-There is a big band of dragons coming here - Percival explained.
-That’s why I don’t know... - Flame replied, while still staring at the crowd.
-You still don’t know? We will be roasted! - Percival replied, and added - But we have some chance... in case somebody gives me a bow...
-Have mine - Faren smiled, and gave the half bow to Percival.
-They won’t attack us - Flame said on a calm voice.
-Why wouldn’t they? - Faren asked on a worrying voice.
-They aren’t hungry - William laughed.
-They are my dragons... I told them to come here, after you asked me... - Flame said, and added - at least there will be some sane living beings around.
-Ahem - Blaze interrupted, and Flame hastily corrected himself, saying - some MORE sane living beings around, I wanted to say...
-Sounds a lot better - said Faren, William and Percival together as they stove their swords.
-So you called them here after all? - William asked a moment later.
-I did... some things changed since we spoke - Flame nodded, and hugged Blaze.
-A new royal family... don’t forget to call me into the wedding - Faren laughed, and almost immediately disappeared when Percival did a lightning fast move.
-I wasn’t that serious - Faren groaned while he stood up.
-I know. That’s why you are still alive - Percival smiled back. Suddenly William began to have a really bad feeling.... like if he forgot about something.....
-THE ARCHERS! - he shouted - TELL THEM TO NOT FIRE!
-You don’t have enough time - Faren shrugged as he saw the soldiers taking their bows.
-But they won’t fire if they can’t - William murmured, and jumped on Talon, shouting - TAKE OFF!

Talon didn’t know why he had to fly, but he believed in William enough to go blindly for him.
-Over the walls, Talon, over the walls - William commanded. Talon shivered, and replied - But the archers...! He knew what would happen to him if all those soldiers fire while he is there.
-They won’t fire if they see me, fear not - William said and tried to smile... but he couldn’t. He was also counting the chance of being shot down. Talon looked over the castle walls, full of soldiers holding their bows, ready to fire.  Talon took a deep breath, and flew hastily in front of the archers... he closed his eyes, and tried to concentrate to not fear. He tried to not hear the sounds, the battle cries, the orders being given... he tried not to think of dying, when someone was waiting him back. But he could feel as the arrows are launched, he could feel as they are tearing him... it was so real!
-Higher, Talon, higher. You are doing fine - he heard William, and opened his eyes. They were indeed close to the walls - if Talon would have gone a little lower, he would have collided into the wall. So he raised his altitude, and looked around. The archers were still on the walls, but they were now confused.
-Do not fire! DO NOT FIRE! - William shouted, and the bows were placed on the ground. Meanwhile, the first wave of dragons landed.

-Flame, why did we need to come here? - a green dragon with large spikes asked his leader.
-I decided to move into a more secure area - the gold dragon replied.
-And you found it in the middle of a castle, full of elves and humans. Congratulations - the answer came.
-And you found something else besides safety also as I can see - another dragon said when he spotted Claw on Blaze’s neck. Flame smiled slightly, but it was obvious he became really confused.
-I do not an answer for that question, Flame. Fear not... the answer is obvious. Anyway, no place could be worse than that one - between the elven and the dwarven kingdoms - the same voice said, and suddenly William could see many-many evil smiling draconic faces. Flame stared at the ground for a while, then smiled at Blaze, and finally turned at the crowd.
-Enough of chatting now. We have many things to do now! - he said, and many dragons nodded. They indeed had lot to do...
-And where should we go, Flame? - a dragoness asked, and Flame gave William a questioning look. William could only swallow a big - he had no ideas. He didn’t even know Flame had so many dragons... perhaps hundreds...
-There is an empty building complex - Storm said.
-That’s a storage building, no? - Faren asked.
-And maybe the half of them will fit in - Percival added - but likely less.
-Tsch - William murmured - it will be fine... let them think we give all we got...
-Do we have ANYTHING good for such purposes anyway? - Faren asked.
-No, but this can’t be a problem - William answered.
-Can’t be a problem, he says... I’d rather ask the dragons though - Faren murmured.
-And what about the remaining ones who won’t fit into the building? - a dragon asked.
-You want us to live in houses?? - the green dragon asked with widened eyes.
-Yes, I indeed want you to do so. And if you wouldn’t have a house... well, I am sure there will be enough – Flame said, and added – and I am sure you will like houses more than caves. I have been doing that for ages now, and I find it to my liking.
-Hja, a castle – Faren murmured – who wouldn’t like that?
-You know – the green dragon nodded with closed eyes – what you did so far was good for us all the time. I have faith in your and in your decisions.
-I really appreciate that – Flame replied – seriously.
-That’s why I said it – the green dragon smiled, and the dragons scattered, looking for suitable homes.
-Well, seeing how many new dragons we have and how many homes they will need, I imagine a lot happy and rich masons here around – Faren laughed.
William only smiled. This army was indeed greater than he expected... this power was beyond he needed for his plans. He could see the razed town again, he could hear the fires burning... he could smell the brimstone in the air... and he could enjoy the dead silence.
He could see his vengeance closing.

14. 	Living Nightmares
Twilight Isle

-You speak as if the world’s biggest problem was a campaign on the empires of the continent – Percival shook his head.
-I did not do all these things to see nothing in return, both of us know – William replied on a strong tone.
-You shouldn’t treat everyone as machines around you, my leader – Percival said while turning his head and staring at the distance – but you know. I only warn you – you only have to turn into something similar with your enemy once. No more.
-I won’t become what I fight against! – William hissed.
-Maybe. Not you would be the first who this happens to – Percival said slowly.
William did not reply, just walked out from the house. The cold winds made him freeze. But the thoughts in his mind were chillier than the air surrounding his body.

What Percival said was indeed a possibility, William had to admit. However, William could not see either paths – he did not know what to follow and what to avoid. It was like walking on a razor blade in a jet dark night. He knew he only needed one wrong step, but he could not see where the path was taking – and so he could not foresee which was that wrong step... “Calm down, noble, calm down” William whispered to himself. But deep in his mind he knew he can’t calm down... he could not, since...

RRRRRRRRrrrrrrrrrr.

William turned around. He could hear the sound – it was so clear. But he could not see anything, which could make such a noise... expect the few dragons that were wandering around...

RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

The same again. Louder this time – and as William could hear – much closer. He walked to the dragons, and asked if they were doing it. Only a nervous nod was the answer.

RRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRR!

It wasn’t close or clear this time. It was deafening. And in the next moment, the ground shook. William jumped back to his feet, and ran back into the castle. He wasn’t surprised to see everyone at full alarm.
-What is going on here? – someone asked.
-Ask someone else – William replied.
-The days of salvation arrive! – a templar knight said.
-What...? – Faren asked on an unbelieving voice.
-My God, Darenzol returns! – the knight laughed.
Deep silence was the answer.

-You brought Darenzol back?! – a dragon shouted.
-Not me, but my friends of the cult – the knight smiled – I only offered my blood for the pact.
-Pact? – an elf asked astonished.
-Fool! With your blood, you sacrificed yourself to bring the demon back! – Percival groaned.
The templar knight did not had time to wonder on Percival’s words. With a loud scream, he suddenly became a large pile of sand.
-What is going on then? – a templar knight asked. According to his face, he was under a big nerve shock.
“And how big awaits him!” William realised.
-To arms – Flame said on a forced calm voice – we are going to defend our new home.
-And likely die – an elf replied.
-You can die sitting here in sorrow or die trying – Flame replied – I let this up to you.
Suddenly the sky became scarlet.
-The moment arrives – someone whispered.
-God bless us – a knight murmured.
William quickly jumped onto Talon, and the dragon took off, following the others. Meanwhile, William could take a short look of the faces below.
This army wasn’t the one, which was there yesterday – there was now no sign of the glory, or of the hope. He could see only crying faces of despair.
-William...! – he could hear Talon saying, and turning his head forward he saw the demon. He could feel the power running out from his arms.
The demon had a black and red skin. He as tall as the castle, and had glowing white eyes.

The archers began to fire with their burning arrows. The little projectiles filled the air, but only an ironic laughter was the answer. Meanwhile the dragons got close enough to attack, and they began to breathe fire and poison at the demon, who seemed to be unaffected.
-We gonna die trying – Talon murmured to himself.
William held the Featherblade tighter, and said – Fly closer, Talon!
-As you wish – Talon sighed, and began to fly closer to Darenzol.
Suddenly dozens of icy beams flew at Darenzol, only missing Talon a bit. Turning his head back, William realised it was Star casting the spell.
The icy beams hit Darenzol near his eyes, and the demon roared as he took a few steps back.
-This is effective, but is not enough – William said.
-It was enough to make him angry – Talon groaned. William had to admit how right he was...
Darenzol suddenly breathed fire. Dragons, archers and buildings became nothing more than ashes in moments. And then the loud laughter came again.
-I wonder if anything could be worse than to die that way – Talon cried, then added – William, wouldn’t it be wiser to flee?
-Where would you flee, if I can ask? Where would you be safe from this monster? – William asked, and Talon nodded.
Suddenly Darenzol used his breath again, and the castle became an enormous torch, which lit the night. “He plays us like the cat plays with the mouse” William realised. However, he also knew there wasn’t very much to do. Suddenly William could feel his sword-holding hand aching. He tried to take the sword into his other hand – and he could not.
He could not release the sword from his hand!
“FLY CLOSER” something shouted in his mind.
William swallowed. What was this?
“FLY CLOSER”
William could not stop wondering what he heard.
“WHY DO YOU FEAR, MORTAL? WHAT DO YOU FEAR FROM?”
William tried to stove the sword, but he couldn’t. He could not control his arm now.
“THIS WAY YOU WILL SEE YOUR FUTURE...” the voice said, and added “OR FATE”
William shook his head, but the thoughts did not leave. He could not deny them, and soon could not even do anything against them. In the next moment he realised he was driven by the sword...
Suddenly he could Darenzol staring at him....
He could see the large mouth opening.
He could see the flames coming closer....
He could hear the loud roar... Talon the thought blazed through his mind, but his new personality could not link this name with anything now.
He was now the same hero again like the one whom killed Darenzol so many years before... he only saw the demon; he only heard the battlecries. He now was something different.
In the next moment, he could feel as he collided into the demon’s body.
He did not know how did he make it, but he didn’t care with it either. Only one thing mattered now.
The sword!
He must push the sword into the demon!
While falling down towards the ground, he held the Featherblade with both arms, and struck down.
Darenzol stopped laughing, and fall silent – then began to scream and to roar. It sounded rather like winds roaming over the hills... it was deafening, but somehow liking to the ear.
With his last sane thought, William could see something big with wings coming towards him...
And then nothing. Darkness and silence.
Which was somehow feeling good to the tortured mind...

He woke up on the ground.
-Are you alright, my lord? – the dragon asked.
William groaned, and rose to his feet. He was feeling awful... but he was at least alive.
Looking around, he could only see ruins, corpses – and the living searching for survivors. Compared to this fact, he began to feel alright. He nodded, saying – I am alright.
The dragon left, and now William was alone again.
He was walking among the ruins and the survivors, when he suddenly noticed a big band of elves. Going there he realised they were surrounding Faren, who was lying on the ground – and was looking awful.
-Ah... William – Faren choked – I am glad to see you... alive.
-You are alive too – William forced a smile.
-But not for long now... – Faren made a slight smile – I am indeed happy to see you alive... you saved me once, now I took my part of saving you and your dreams... now I don’t owe you anything....
-You did not do that ever – William crouched down – we were friends. And I won’t let you die here... you will live on and see...
-And see you bathing in blood, razing the land where I came from? – Faren asked.
William shrugged... he knew what Faren wanted to say.
-Look, Noble... listen to my last words. Do not believe in your vengefulness and in your bloodlust... or you will become a Darenzol yourself. These elves, dragons and knights admire you, because you helped them... more or less, but you did. If you do what you plan, they will still obey you... but will not admire you. They will only fear you... and by then... you will be a demon yourself... – Faren said on a faint voice.
-I obey you – William smiled – I promise!
-I am glad to hear this – Faren smiled, and stared at the sky – now, something will happen to me that happens only once to everyone.
-What is that? – William asked.
-I die... au revoir. – Faren smiled, and closed his eyes. William sighed, and stood up.
-What more can I loose...? – William asked from himself – what’s the army, the isle, the castle worth, if noone remains of my friends?
-Sire... we need you as soon as possible – a knight ran towards him. William shook his head, saying – I stay with him.
-Talon needs you, sire – the knight said. William suddenly realised what happened to Talon... that roar. He quickly nodded, and followed the knight.

William was happy to see that Talon is alive... the dragon was lying on the ground.
-Talon, glad to see you are alright – William greeted him.
-William? – Talon asked on a voice which made William shiver.
-Is that you? – Talon added.
-It is... is something wrong? – William asked, and the knight whispered – He was only touched by those flames, sire... but he is now blind...
William slowly nodded.
-I guess it is not night being that dark – Talon forced a smile.
-Yes... you are right. It is dawning – William replied, and added – I am sorry... so sorry...
-It was not your fault. Things could have turned out much worse – Talon smiled.
-Indeed! – they suddenly heard Flame, who was crawling towards them.
-Flame... you also seem to hit pretty bad... – William sighed.
-A broken wing, a pair of broken legs. I crashed into a tower while I was dodging a flame breath of that oversized fool... But otherwise – I am alright – the dragon leader cheered.
-The first one I hear saying this – Talon laughed.

Epilogue

“Sorrow fades away as it passes away with time, the wises say” William thought. Staring through the windows of his castle, he had to admit this was partly true. Flame was getting better now, and Talon had got used to his new situation – as much as he could. Blaze was teaching Claw, and everyone else was working to rebuild the island – and their lives.
William gave up his plans for revenge; he had to admit that Faren was right. Before dying, the elf saved his life. However, William could not stop wondering if the next havoc was coming towards them...
Future – or fate.
He could not predict which was awaiting them...

Meanwhile, in the distance, some ships were arranging into a diamond formation. They were armed, and were ready to fulfil their tasks what they were given... they knew they cannot fail.
Lord Navaros does not tolerate failures.
They quickly pulled the flags of the Dark Union up, and headed towards the large continent with the isle...

-	THE END –

The story was written by Dobos “Assassin” Andras.
Thanks to Arokh’s Twin, Dragon Dame and to Dragonkid for their help!
Special thanks to Arokh’s Twin, who hosted this story in his site.
If you have any comments or suggestions, you get into touch with me at
dobos-andras@freemail.hu
dobos_andras@hotmail.com

Thanks for reading my writing. :)