The wind whipped against my face as Frostfire soared through the endless sky. Below us, the world stretched out—rivers shimmered like long threads, forests a deep emerald, and roads wound through fields and hills. We flew onward for at least an hour before our home came into view. Everspring looked so small from up here, with rooftops catching the morning light. I'd never seen the town from this height; it was breathtaking. The entire time we were in the air, our hands gripped the railings for dear life.

“Hey, Triolux. Have you ever heard of a seatbelt?”

“Eh?” the ferrokin said.

“A belt that attaches to the chairs and buckles across your lap. So we don’t fly out of our seats.”

Seraphina giggled next to me, and poked me in the rib.

“What? They know we’re not from around here. If it’s good enough for my Hyundai, it’s good enough for this dragon saddle.”

Elixander had been quiet since we had departed the underground. I didn't catch him in the act, but I was sure his eyes burned into me every time I wasn't looking in his direction.

"Is everything okay?" I finally asked him.

He nodded and looked away. I was about to prod further when he said, "This night has been trying. There is much to think about."

"Oh," I said, because I knew what was going through his mind. I didn't blame him if he mistrusted me. Hell, I'd mistrust me, too, in his shoes.

Triolux had produced a pair of thick lensed dark green glasses from an inner pocket and placed them over his eyes. They were quite thick but seemed to be adequate sunglasses for him. At one point, he stood with his arms outstretched, and turned his head in every direction. "The valleys! See how they cradle the mist in their embrace!" he exclaimed. "And those villages nestled among the hills—what harmonious design! The world is a marvel!"

I smiled at his enthusiasm.

"It's really lovely from up here," I said. I squinted as we approached Everspring, picked out my tavern, and pointed it out for Triolux after having him count seven roofs from the right and then looking toward the open market since my place hung on the outskirts. "See the brown roof with the, well, damn. The missing…" I squinted again. Was that the condition of the Shadow's Respite's roof? "Is that my place? Yeah. The one with the missing shingles belongs to me."

It was a good thing we hadn’t had serious rain in the last few months, or my upper floor might have been soaked. The roof would need to be fixed. Just another damn thing to add to my list of things that were currently sinking my business.

"Looks to be an easy fix," Triolux said as he leaned over the railing and looked down.

"Maybe for you. I don't know how to replace shingles. I'll have to hire someone."

"I may be able to help."

"Thank you, Triolux. I don't want to monopolize your time back up here."

"I believe you offered me a room. I have no money, so perhaps a trade would be acceptable here. I can help you."

I thought about it for all of two seconds. "I'll take you up on that offer. Feel free to stay as long as you like. You kinda saved us all back there.”

Triolux leaned forward and clapped my shoulder. "Thank you, friend Varix, for the kind hospitality.”

“It’s no bother. I hope you like goblins.”

“Goblins?“

I smiled in answer.

Seraphina leaned her head against my shoulder. She let out a soft yawn, her eyes heavy.

Elixander covered his mouth as he yawned as well. "Even the majesty of flight can't ward off fatigue, it seems," he remarked.

My stomach tightened and rumbled. I couldn't wait to dig into any leftovers in the kitchen. The thought of a warm meal and a soft bed at The Shadow's Respite pulled at me warmly.

But then the realization hit me—I had a full day ahead. The event I'd planned with the local brewers was today. I couldn't postpone it now; too many people were counting on me. My shoulders sagged. I would have to sneak in a nap, at the very least.

"Look, over there," Seraphina said, pointing ahead.

The orc fort appeared, its wooden palisades standing sturdy against the landscape. It was impressive how quickly they'd built it up.

A mischievous grin spread across my face. "Let's wake up Urzan!"

"I do not know this Urzan, but I am willing to awaken your friends." Frostfire chuckled, a deep rumble I could feel through her scales. She angled her wings, and we began our descent toward the fort. The ground rushed up to meet us, details sharpening with every moment. Frostfire's landing was almost graceful—her feet touched down, and she ran a few strides to slow her momentum, coming to a halt just shy of the orc fort's walls. We were thrown forward, then back. A firm grasp on the railing was the only thing that prevented us from flying right out of the saddle.

"Apologies," Frostfire said. "It's been some time since I've landed with passengers."

Triolux laughed heartily. "That was exhilarating! The thrill of the wind and the ground racing up—magnificent!"

The gates of the fort burst open. Orcs spilled out, weapons gleaming in the dawn light. Their shouts filled the air, a mix of confusion and battle readiness. A few peeled off and sprinted away into the fields.

A bell clanged urgently from the direction of the town. Figures hurried along the road—guards in formation and Caden leading the way.

I stood up as best I could and waved my arms. "It's us!" I shouted. "No need for alarm! Hi, Urzan!"

The lead orc, dressed in leather shorts, a thin cloth jerkin, and not a hint of armor, came to a stop, his tusks on ferocious display, but his mouth shut as he got a look at me on the dragon.

"Did we wake you?" I called to Urzan.

"Urzan no like dragon surprise!"

The next hour was a whirlwind as hundreds of Everspring residents turned out to see the dragon, as well as the ferrokin and the 'returning heroes,' as Mira called us after we'd helped rescue them. I was greatly relieved to find that she, Alic, Tobias, and the other man with them, Bowen, had all survived the stairway collapse.

Mira was all smiles, and Alic clung to her side with one arm wrapped around her waist, over her shoulder, or holding her hand.

"You two make a great couple," I told them.

"Thanks, Varix." Alic grinned.

A wave of relief washed over me now that we were back in Everspring. The sun cast a warm glow over the town, and the scent of fresh bread wafted from the bakery nearby, along with the ever-present scent of fresh lavender that blanketed the nearby fields. Despite the exhaustion pulling at my limbs, I couldn't help but smile.

People began to gather, their faces lit up with curiosity and excitement, though there were more than a few faces regarding the dragon with a little fear. Some spotted the beast, and simply ran back to town.

"Varix! Is it true you ventured underground and came back?" a man called out.

I gave a modest nod, took advantage of our situation, and milked it. "We did, but that's a tale for tonight. Come to The Shadow's Respite to sample fresh new ales and beers from local craftsmen. I'll tell the story about being underground, finding a new city, and meeting a dragon.” I pointed at Frostfire. “Right now, I could sleep for a week."

The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.

"It seems unlikely that all that happened in one evening," the man shouted back, which was met with laughter.

"Agreed, friend, but happened, it did," I replied and pointed at the dragon. "Meet Frostfire Aetherwing. She’ll back me up.”

Laughter rippled through the crowd. Seraphina stood beside me, hand in mind, and leaned her head on my shoulder.

"Are you as exhausted as me?" I asked her.

"I am. I need sleep. Lots and lots of sleep."

Dozens of feet away, Frostfire stretched her wings, bringing gasps from the onlookers. "Who among the young ones wishes to fly?" she asked.

Children cheered, their hands shooting into the air. Parents exchanged nervous glances.

A mother stepped forward. "Are you sure it's safe?"

Frostfire lowered her head gracefully. "I assure you, they will be precious cargo to me."

"It's safe. Frostfire is gentle and quite sweet," I told the mother.

The temptation was too great. Children clambered onto her back, their eyes wide. With a powerful beat of her wings, Frostfire lifted off, carrying joyous laughter and a few frightened screams into the sky. But those soon gave way to wonder, and the half-dozen children's faces flushed, grinned, and screamed. She didn't keep the children in the air for long, returning after just a few moments.

Triolux stood next to me, his granite-like features softened in the morning light. People stared, but none had approached to ask about him yet. I suppose the dragon was enough to keep them distracted.

"This place is brimming with life," he said. "It's marvelous."

"It is," I agreed. "The people here are the best I have ever met. I have true friends here. I’m glad the ground is no longer shaking.”

Frostfire gave a few more rides before telling us she needed to stretch her wings and see more of this marvelous land.

“I have been away for far too long. I will return, Varix. It may not be soon, but I will see you, in time."

"I understand. Thank you for flying us out. You saved our lives.”

“Thank that one.” Frostfire pointed her long head at Triolux.

“Ah. It’s nothing. You did the flying,” Triolux said.

“And you freed me. So, my new friends, I will say farewell for now. Soar high and let the skies sing your journey.”

“You too, my friend. Farewell," I told the dragon.

She blew a little ice in the air, which turned into a small snow cloud that quickly dissipated as it fell. She took off, her massive wings sweeping her into the air.

After the excitement settled, we made our way to The Shadow's Respite.

Lady Churl glanced up from behind the bar as the four of us entered. "Reckon you found your way home," she said. "Glad ya ain't dead."

"Thanks, Lady Churl. I couldn't stay away," I replied.

She smirked. "Place didn't burn down, if that's what yer wonderin'."

"I see that. Good job.”

Milo and Jessara emerged from the kitchen. Milo's face lit up. "You're back!"

Jessara crossed her arms. "We were so worried."

"Sorry to worry you," I said. "Thanks for holding down the fort."

"We've got some leftover stew on the stove," Jessara offered. "Figured you'd be hungry."

"Starving, actually."

Jessara and Milo stared at Triolux, so I introduced them all. They were struck speechless by the burnished man, and I didn't blame them. Lady Churl walked around him as she looked him up and down.

“Ain’t never seen one like you.”

Triolux smiled brightly at her. “I could say the same of you.”

“I’m a goblin.”

“And I am of the ferrokin. A pleasure.” Triolux nodded.

We settled at the large table near the hearth. Bowls of rich stew and fresh bread appeared before us. It was early in the morning, but it was never a bad time for stew, which carried hints of rosemary and thyme.

Triolux took a bite and closed his eyes. "Exquisite."

“That answer was that,” I said.

Triolux lowered the spoon and laughed. “I told you, Varix. We ferrokin are a hearty lot. We need certain minerals, such as iron and copper, but we also need meat and vegetables. I suppose you could say we’re quite adaptable.”

We ate in comfortable silence, the clink of spoons against bowls the only sound. The hearty food was the nourishment my body needed. I chased it with several mugs of water and thought again about how good a stiff drink would be.

After a while, I looked over at Milo and Jessara. "Could you two get the food wagon prepped? We'll need it ready soon."

"Of course," Milo said. "Come on, Jess."

They headed out, leaving the four of us at the table.

Triolux's eyes kept drifting to the corner of the room where Ophelia and Sir Garin resided. I had been ignoring them from the moment I’d walked into the room. They had tried to pester me with questions, but a quick head shake had put them off for now.

There was something on Elixander's mind. Might as well rip off the bandaid now. I turned to Seraphina. "Mind bringing out the silencing stone?"

"Not at all." She retrieved the stone and placed it on the table. A gentle pulse enveloped us, muting the world outside.

Elixander's expression grew serious. He folded his hands, gazing intently at me. "There's much to discuss."

I took a deep breath. "I'm listening."

He hesitated for a moment. "Learning of your true nature—the transmigration—you must understand it's a lot to accept."

"I can imagine," I said softly. "I noticed a change came over you on the way here."

He looked down at his hands. "I apologize, Varix. But understand that I may never fully trust who resides behind that amulet."

Seraphina interjected. "Father, Varix has done nothing but good since he's been here. He's shown no desire to wield Morthisal's power."

I nodded. "When I first arrived, there were incidents—unintentional displays of magic. But with Seraphina's help and the Heart of Shadows, I've kept it suppressed. I have no interest in learning his arts. Taking off the stone is torture. The voices of the dead…." I shook my head, looked down, and crossed my arms over my chest.

Elixander met my gaze. "But the power remains."

"It does," I admitted. “And I have no intention of using it."

He sighed. "My concerns aren't unfounded. The return of such power could bring darkness upon us all."

"I understand your worry," I said. "But I'm trying to build a life here. A simple one."

Triolux leaned back in his chair, his eyes drifting to the corner. He seemed distracted.

"Everything alright?" I asked.

He tilted his head. "Certainly, but I haven't met your other friends yet."

"What?"

Triolux stood and walked toward an empty barstool. "Hello there," he said. "May I ask your names?"

I blinked. "Triolux?"

Elixander's brow furrowed. "What is he talking about?"

I stared at Triolux in shock. "You can see them?"

Triolux nodded. "Indeed. Likely a result of my extended time as an ethereal being."

Ophelia scoffed. "About time someone noticed us."

Garin chuckled. "What a strange looking dwarf you are."

"Strange looking? I would say you should look in the mirror."

Sir Garin roared with laughter at the jest.

I rubbed the back of my neck. "Along with... everything else, I can sometimes see, um, ghosts. They tend to linger around me. Two of them live here. Kind of haunting me, I guess."

Ophelia crossed her arms. "Haunting you? Please. Perhaps you're the one haunting us."

"Here, now!" I protested.

Elixander looked between us, bewildered. "Who are these spirits?"

I gestured toward them. "Elixander, even though you can’t see them, meet Lady Ophelia Nightshade and Sir Garin Thorneblade."

He stood abruptly. "Garin Thorneblade? The paladin?"

Garin nodded. "The very same," he said, though Elixander couldn't hear him.

"He says yes," I relayed.

"When I first came to your tavern, I felt as though someone familiar was here." Elixander's eyes glistened. "Garin was a dear friend. I thought I'd never..."

"You knew, Sir Garin?" I said gently.

"I apologize for not mentioning this, friend Varix," Garin said. "I recognized him, but kept my silence. I had hoped to speak with you about him after he had left. Then you disappeared for the rest of the night."

"How do you know him?"

Sir Garin grinned. "Ah. Elixander and I had a few adventures during the war against Morthisal."

"You two fought together?" I asked Elixander.

"I knew Sir Garin for the entirety of the war." Elixander's shoulders sagged. "This is... unexpected."

Seraphina reached out to touch his arm. "Father?"

He cleared his throat. "I apologize. I'm a little overwhelmed. In all my long years, I have met many fine humans. He was the best of them."

Garin said, "Ah, that pointy-eared bastard was one of the most boring companions I ever fought with. Always going on about this or that. Talking about blades of grass and the pattern of falling rain, and endlessly about his wife."

I lightly shook my head at Garin.

"Tell him. I suspect you won't get the reaction you expect."

I turned to Elixander and told him what Garin had said. Elixander looked down, and I wondered if I should have kept that to myself. Then his shoulders shook as he began to laugh.