Seeking What's Hidden

Thank you for letting me sleep. I can’t believe I slept that long.

Pammon said nothing, but Kaen could feel the affirmation of his comment through their bond.

How long will it be till we reach the border of the area we know?

We will arrive a few hours before the sun rises tomorrow. How far do you want to explore?

We have to search until we find it. Otherwise, we are wasting time and leaving our people defenseless against what might keep coming. Surely, we can find some trail leading deeper into that section.

We thought that two years ago and found nothing. It may be different since it appears that they are no longer invading.

Kaen considered the truth of that. If the orcs and goblins had been in the cave for as long as it appeared, the question now was where they had gone before the way in was sealed off.

I guess I should have listened when someone said we should have checked a few months ago to see more troop movements.

Yes, but someone was acting butt-hurt all the time and not listening to his wife or his dragon.

The amount of sarcasm that came through their bond as Pammon spoke was impossible to miss.

I can only apologize so many times…

That doesn’t mean I don’t take the opportunity to remind you so we don’t fall into the pattern of bad choices again. Now, let’s focus on what we need to do: Eat and rest. Now that you are awake, I am going to use my skill to cut down on some of our travel time.

[ Flight Burst Activated ]

The surge of power that flowed through Pammon and the speed they now experienced was far beyond what it had been three years ago. The size and strength of his dragon still amazed Kaen every day. Growth had slowed the last year as food became scarcer, and the dragons were forced to eat the orc army more and more. Occasionally, they could eat a higher-tier ogre, and there was a noticeable difference in growth in the females. Still, Kaen started to wonder if Pammon was reaching a limit to how large he could become at his age.

I’m only six years old, and your thoughts run everywhere. We both know I am the size Tharnok was. And don’t ask.

I wasn’t. I’m just thinking of things we need to figure out. Are you still ok with Phillip and Frederick being the first to attempt to be there when the eggs hatch?

There are no other options. We both know that no one else has shown the conviction they have. Based on what you told me about what happened inside the cave, there should be no doubts. Even Frederick’s fears were not enough to prevent him from this chance. You were almost frozen as he was.

Kaen gently patted that scale on Pammon’s neck as he leaned against it, feeling the wind rush over him. Beneath him, the world sped by at an alarming rate.

Only twenty-seven candidates are still alive after all those fighting to take the test next month. None of them are over sixteen… Then there are still over one hundred and fifty students with lifestones who will be ready in another year. Did I do right by this?

Frustration flowed from Pammon.

There was no other choice. We have talked about this multiple times. Without the ‘Dragon Children’ as your people call them, the wall would have never withstood the assaults. The guards were overwhelmed and the constant barrage of attacks that lasted for over a month wore everyone out.

People forget that even you and I need rest. When we were gone for a few hours to sleep, it wasn’t easy on Glynnis or Amaranth. Each of them were pregnant also and that required them to rest.

So do not feel like the kingdom can only succeed with you. The truth is they are all exhausted. We suffered from spells that made people weak and sick. The initial attack killed hundreds of guards we had not expected to lose, all to a spell no one knew was coming.

When wives, children and your students defended, the walls held. Sometimes, we must be willing to understand that everyone must fight. I remember a young boy who was not as prepared as these children are going into a cave against goblins.

Smiling, Kaen remembered that moment and the lessons learned the hard way.

And you are sure Amaranth and Glynnis are ok with those two choices?

Pammon stayed quiet for a moment. Minutes passed, and Kaen could feel him struggling to answer that question.

Amaranth is fine with the decision, while Glynnis has a problem with it. One was used by the council and saw firsthand how their actions and words contradicted the truth. So, her fear of other dragon riders is not there because she has seen how you act. Even when you make foolish mistakes, she knows you are fighting in the interest of others. Plus, she has sworn herself to you.

Glynnis still hesitates as the idea of her child being bound to a person still feels like a form of slavery, like the people we encountered on the island. She won’t fight against it, but I think it has to do with the candidates you have chosen.

If more eggs come and the decision arises again, they will be more hesitant if the boys do not work out.

Kaen thought about the number of conversations he had with both dragons, telling them his desire and wishes about Phillip and Frederick. There had been a moment where he felt Glynnis would have never given in, but remembered when Amaranth stepped in and defended him.

Do they really fear my ability to command them?

Would you fear a person who can make you do anything with just a single command?

Pammon’s question left no doubt on how the two felt.

So do they fear me or–

It is both. You have earned their respect, but I can always feel the fear that hides beneath their scales. You know, for a few weeks, I struggled with those feelings after you commanded me to fly away.

My very will was crushed like a deer between my teeth. I had no chance. It was as if everything I was disappeared at that moment. There is a part of me that struggles to know what I would do if you used that power again. When you tossed away that jewelry, it proved to me you were worthy of that power you hold.

If you used it to enslave the will of my kind… I am not sure I could ever forgive that, no matter the reasoning. Some might ask, “isn’t the results worth the price?” Aldric asked you once and had you not stood up to him, I would have. Would you trade all the lives of your family and friends if it meant stopping this war?

You know I wouldn’t…

Then do not dwell on that idea again. Know that I am forever grateful we didn’t fly to the island of my kind and enslave them. Be better than the one we are fighting who we both know would not hesitate to use that power. I know why you did it, and I agree with the decision, but that power is still like Stioks.

How can you compare the two of us?!

How many people in the kingdoms he rules over wish they could resist his command? Yet they have no power to. Saying no results in their death or worse, the death of those they love.

Considering those words, Kaen remained silent, letting the wind wash over him.

It’s never easy.

Thrumming, Pammon gently shook his head as he sped through the sky.

We were not chosen to have an easy life. There was one brief moment where I considered selling my own soul and telling you to do what I knew was wrong. Thankfully you are a man worthy of me. Now rest, stop worrying about what might happen, and focus on what is before us.

Two days of traveling with limited sleep left Kaen and Pammon in a sour mood. The forests and the swamps they searched through had provided constant problems.

Mosquitoes plagued them every second they were on the ground, and even under Pammon’s wing, they found their way to every inch of Kaen’s exposed skin.

Food was difficult even for Pammon to locate, and the few animals he found almost always never felt worth the time or energy to fly down and eat them.

Halfway through the second day of searching, a path appeared deep inside the swamps, and as the sun began to set, small fires started to show in the distance.

You see those?

Activating his lifestone, Kaen closed his eyes and looked through Pammon’s eyes, seeing the dots of fires spread across the land to the southeast of them.

How many fires are there?

Thousands… I think we found what we are looking for.

As they flew closer, the appearance of a castle came into view. Even in the darkness of the night, combined with the moon and the lights within the castle, Pammon’s eyes easily saw what was before them.

There are a lot of weapons on those walls that appear designed to take down a dragon.

Based on the number of defenses, they have no love for Juthom and Stioks. What do you want to do?

Flying high in the night sky, both of them looked at the army below them. Spread out for miles all around were campfires and tents, with goblins, orcs, and ogres everywhere.

Fires flickered as what must be an orc blacksmith banged on weapons and armor, preparing the army for battle.

There has to be over a hundred and fifty thousand, maybe two hundred and fifty thousand. We have barely killed one-quarter of their forces.

I’ll ask again because the real question is now: What do you want to do? Can you really fight against that?

The frustration of knowing there was a chance of another three years or more of siege so close to Ebonmount had Kaen’s lifestone starting to burn. If he was right, Stioks planned on working with them, and both forces attacked together. The odds of their kingdom falling were too high.

Together, we can easily take out enough of them to let them know we are done waiting.

Thrumming, Pammon nodded.

How do you want to do this?

They spent an hour studying the army beneath them, and Kaen and Pammon knew the castle would be hard to break. At some point, they would obviously draw the attention of those inside, and neither had any idea what might actually come from within the walls.

If the siege ogre was any indication of things to come, there were probably horrors that would make it seem like a minor threat.

We will hit from the south. I’ll start by sending arrows into the camp, causing confusion and killing as many as possible. I have almost four hundred arrows.

Looking at the quiver by his side, Kaen sighed at the fact only six arrows, designed to fight dragons, were there. No one had found any more metal required for them, and the constant fighting had prevented them from searching for more. Aldric had given the little bit he had in storage to help his cause.

Just tell me when you want to engage. I will do my part. You do yours.

Smiling, Kaen nodded and drew his bow back.

Perhaps I can finally hit forty…

The chaos that erupted beneath the two of them as Kaen sent arrows charged with lightning falling into the camp, mixed in with ones that exploded, seemed to pale compared to the fighting along the walls in Ebonmount.

Every shot killed groups of ogres, orcs, and goblins as they began fighting amongst themselves, trying to find out where the attacks came from.

When a higher-tier orc or ogre showed up, Kaen made sure to take them out with a single explosive shot, preventing leadership from controlling the troops they were responsible for.

By the time he was almost out of arrows, Kaen had killed over three thousand troops.

It’s much easier when one doesn’t have to worry about destroying a wall or injuring their own troops.

Are you sure you are ready for this?

It’s time for us to bring the fight to them. You lay a path of fire to the side and draw their attention. I’ll do the rest.

Swooping down, Pammon used his breath, igniting a path of fire that ran over fifty meters long before swooping back up into the sky.

No one had noticed Kaen as he hopped off Pammon’s back when the dragon paused momentarily at the end of his trail.

Kaen took off with the sword and shield in hand, charging to the west at the first orc he saw.

By the time the shout had been raised in the camp, Kaen was cutting a path through the army on the west side of the flames Pammon had created, a row of bodies littering the ground behind him.

Do not celebrate just yet. They are coming to you like flies on stink.

Let them. Tonight, we will strike them down.

From above Kaen, in the darkness of night, Pammon roared, and as Kaen’s sword took off two heads from goblins who had looked up, Kaen let himself smile.

There was killing to do, and he would be the instrument of death.

Always Listen to Your Dragon

Popping a cork off a potion, Kaen drank it, letting the injuries that were overwhelming him go away in the silent yell that always came.

We should consider that we have done enough and go.

Kaen glanced at the field. The sun was up, and there were countless corpses in piles surrounding him. The creature he had just killed were nothing he had ever heard of before, and as he drew closer to the castle, two more stood near the gate, chained and appearing ready to come at him.

What are these things? They disappear from my sight and then appear so close… if it wasn’t for your vision, I would have no idea where they were.

They are nothing we have ever seen, and the fact that one almost tore your arm off should give you caution to continue to press this attack. We have dealt a major blow, and we need to go.

Am I being an eggling if I say I want to stay and fight and push to the King of the orcs?

He sliced down two more ogres that rushed at him, both tier two but no match for his power and speed.

I mean, I did hit forty with my sword in that fight. Should I try my bow against them?

We need to go. We may be at our limits. If Stioks hasn’t pushed against these… LOOK OUT!

Pammon’s cry rattled his head, but Kaen saw the massive cloud of green gas coming at him. Turning, he started to run as fast as he could away from the cloud that rolled across the ground and high above it.

I’m not sure I can outrun this…

Panic began to flood their connection as Pammon swooped down where Kaen was.

Running through his mind was the memory of a spell resembling the one Stioks had cast the day they first fought.

I’m coming. Keep running!

Pammon was swooping down, corkscrewing as he tried to get to Kaen as quickly as possible.

Glancing over his shoulder as he ran, Kaen saw the cloud sweeping over the orcs and goblins, watching them drop and start to choke, none standing back up after having fallen down.

Pammon was too far away, and Kaen knew it. He had been foolish, allowing his anger to cloud his thinking, and now he was about to possibly be killed because of it.

I’m almost there!

Speeding past the horde that ran away with him, having seen death approaching, Kaen realized there was a kind of magic he wasn’t knowledgeable of.

Pammon was so close, but the cloud was almost upon him, stretching across the ground like a cloud.

Hold your breath and run!

Filling his lungs once more, Kaen felt the cloud wash over him, and his skin immediately began to itch and burn. His eyes watered, and everything inside him wanted him to scream in pain, sending out the breath that he held so dearly in his lungs.

Jump!

Knowing what Pammon wanted, Kaen leaped into the air, driving with all his power as he felt the talons gently grasp him before they swept into the air.

Trails of the magic cloud swirled around him as Pammon flew higher, his wings sending out the green gas that seemed to kill so many without concern for who it was.

Almost out of it! Hold it!

Only now did Kaen realize how high the cloud had risen- it was well over a quarter mile high.

His chest heaved as his body wanted him to start retching. He wanted to scratch at his face. Mucus was dripping from his nose and eyes.

It was hard to see as his vision started to go white.

Breathe!

His lungs rattled and shook as he pushed out the air inside him and quickly gulped down more air. Each breath burnt. Even though they were out of the cloud, it was as if somehow the magic had penetrated him.

[ Disease Resistance Skill Acquired ]

[ Disease Resistance Skill Increased x10 ]

The pain and feeling he felt began to subside for a moment, but it was still there, crawling along his skin.

Talk to me! Kaen!

Blinking back the tears and mucus, Kaen used his hands to wipe away his eyes.

It took a few times, blinking and trying to look around, for Kaen to realize what was wrong.

I can’t see…

Pammon roared, his voice thundering across the land as he flew to the west.

At all?!

Concern and worry hit Kaen harder than any weapon ever had. He felt the fear inside Pammon.

I cannot see from my eyes. I can see from yours, though. I… I’m sorry, Pammon… I didn’t –

No! Do not give up. Be ready. Use my eyes. I’m going to send you up into the air, and you will get on your saddle. We will fly home. Someone there can help you.

Had Kaen not been able to feel the doubt in Pammon’s voice, he might have believed this was possible.

Stop blaming yourself, that gas attack couldn’t be something you planned for!

Pammon ignored Kaen’s plea, pushing himself to his limit and keeping his Flight Burst skill activated for as long as possible.

Had he seen the speed at which the cloud passed beneath them, Kaen would have understood what concern and worry can allow one to do.

Pammon's fear dripped off him every second they were flying. No matter how much he tried to convince Kaen that everything would be ok, underneath it all was the lingering doubt.

Over this time, Kaen gained seven more points of disease resistance.

In less than a full day, Pammon reached the border of the Ebonmount and aimed for the cave with Amaranth.

I need you!

What is wrong?

Kaen is injured, and I need you to try to heal him. It may be like what Elies had.

When Pammon spoke those words as he flew toward the cave entrance, Amaranth was up, moving from both eggs and darting toward the open space.

Hurry. Every second counts!

Kaen groaned as he lay on the ground. He had got off Pammon, who immediately left, flying to find Ava.

You are a fool. I know Pammon is worried, but I am not sure I can heal this.

Nodding, Kaen lay still, feeling the magical power of Amaranth flowing through him.

What is different? Was it too late?

There is dark magic in this. I have only seen magic like this once, but it was not this evil. It has a taint to it.

Had Kaen been able to see, he would have noticed the look of concern that Amaranth’s eyes had, her eyelids almost closed as she concentrated on trying to heal the rider of the dragon she cared for.

How many of their own did they kill with this?

If I had to guess between them and my actions, at least a quarter of their army is now gone. Once the cloud came over me, I couldn’t see how much further it spread. All I know is that they considered me worth that cost.

Of course, they did, scoffed Amaranth. You are worth more than their entire army. If you died, Pammon would have raged, and Glynnis and I would have left with our eggs, leaving you and the others to deal with everything that came after.

You would abandon the kingdom?

A grumble came from Amaranth, and Kaen could sense the frustration from her.

What do I have here without Pammon? He is my mate. You are his rider. Together, you both give Glynnis and me a reason to stay. Without you two, no reason exists for us here. Staying would only put our eggs at risk, and we all know that giving those to Stioks is not a wise decision.

Kaen started to move when he felt a talon push against his chest.

Lie still and stop talking. It is hard enough to see if I can do anything without the distractions of conversing, and it is harder when you move.

Kaen lay still, sighing, doing his best to hope for something he realized might never happen.

“Kaen!”

Ava’s voice carried across the stone walls and floors as he heard Pammon’s talons slide across the floor.

The sound of footsteps approaching him told Kaen there was more than just Ava there.

I brought Ava and her father. I need to rest, but I won’t leave. Is there any change?

No… Amaranth isn’t–

Do not worry. No matter what happens, I will be here.

“What did you do?” Ava asked, her hand touching his side as she knelt beside him.

Letting his lifestone burn, Kaen looked through Pammon’s eyes and saw Ava leaning over him. He could see tears falling from her face. Next to her was her father, carrying a bag over his shoulder and getting ready to kneel next to him.

“I tried to end the fight… I…”

Swallowing the lump in his throat, Kaen felt the weight of what his choice had caused. A blind dragon rider. A kingdom that needed him, and now, once word got out, they would be even more vulnerable.

“Tell me what it was,” Lord Hurem said as he began to open his bag. “Ava told me Pammon said it was a cloud of green. What other effects did you have?”

Watching himself from Pammon’s perspective felt weird. He saw his father-in-law pulling out a book and lying it on the floor beside him. Kaen could hear the sound of everything, but to see it like this, he felt overwhelmed by it all.

“My skin itched like I wanted to scrape it off me. My eyes burned, and mucus ran from them and my nose. Everything felt on fire, I guess. The orcs and goblins I saw who breathed it didn’t make it more than a few steps before they fell to the ground.”

The older man nodded, flipping through the book after he handed Ava a small notepad and pen. She took it, and Kaen saw her writing on it.

“Do you feel the effects of it still?”

Shaking his head, Kaen reached up with his hand and tapped his chest. “I gained Disease Resistance. I’m currently at a level seventeen.”

A smile broke through his concern as Lord Hurem and Ava looked at each other in shock at that revelation.

“A seventeen… well, that explains why it no longer seems to be bothering you, but still…” the older man trailed off as he flipped through a few more pages. Reaching into his bag, he pulled out a jar of something yellow.

“This might sting, but are you okay with me trying something?”

Holding back a snappy reply, Kaen nodded. He felt the man opening up his eyelids, watching it through Pammon.

This is very weird… seeing what you see and feeling it.

Be quiet and focus. I’m tired and would close my eyes if you weren’t using them.

Surprised by the short, snappy reply, Kaen could feel Pammon's exhaustion. He had pushed himself to make sure they got to Ebonmount safely.

Lord Hurem filled a dropper with some of the yellow liquid inside the jar and moved it over Kaen’s open eye. Dropping a few drops in, Kaen tried to not react as pain erupted through his eyes, burning all the way to the center of his head.

“Holy mother of goblin humpin'! That shite burns!”

“It’s good that it does,” replied his father-in-law as he put the remaining liquid back in the jar and closed it. “If it didn’t, we would be in trouble.”

“Does that mean–”

Her father cut Ava off as he held up his hand and gave a sharp shake of his head. “For now, I will put a poultice on his eyes and wrap them up. We need to get with the adventurers guild and see what they might have to help with this. For now, Kaen, you need to rest. Judging from how Pammon jerked while flying, you can stay here.”

I’m going to close my eyes. I need to sleep.

Not waiting for a reply, Kaen felt the world go black.

Fear gripped him at that moment when he realized that he was blind without Pammon.

A hand squeezed his shoulder, and Kaen felt a pair of lips against his forehead.

“It’s ok, my love. I’m here. Rest.”

Consequences

The sleep that came was not restful, as Kaen repeatedly relieved his mistake. Most of the time, he died. Sometimes, Pammon died because of his choice.

When he woke up, covered in sweat, he immediately touched his face and felt a bandage over his eyes.

“Leave it alone,” Ava’s voice rang out. “Father says it will help. For now, just trust the poultice and rest.”

You are safe. We are all here.

Pammon’s voice and the hand on his shoulder calmed the fear that Kaen felt rising inside him.

Use my eyes if you want. I can feel what you are feeling.

Letting his lifestone smolder, Kaen sighed as the black void of his vision was replaced with what Pammon saw. There on the stone floor, he was still lying, a small piece of cloth under his head and a thin blanket over his legs and torso.

Thank you. More than you might realize for this.

That is what I am here for. To continuously support you.

“I’m going to stand up,” Kaen announced, putting his hand on Ava’s. “I can see through Pammon’s eyes, and I need to see if I can figure out how to walk and move like this.”

“Are you sure?” Ava asked as she glanced at Pammon, who she saw nod.

“Yes, and you should know you look even more beautiful when seen through the eyes of a dragon. Every piece of hair that is out of place shows up–”

A fist came and punched him in the arm, and Kaen laughed, seeing it coming and letting it hit.

“Gah, you’re such an arse. See if I help when Pammon isn’t around.”

Grabbing the blanket, Kaen set it to the side and rolled over to his hands and knees.

His body felt weird as he tried to move based on what he saw through Pammon. It took a moment, but after a minute, he was able to stand and not keep rocking as he felt off balance from the view.

“You look like a toddler that has just learned to stand,” teased Ava.

Amaranth and Pammon thrummed, finding Ava’s comment funnier than Kaen's.

Nodding, he ignored them and turned to face Pammon. Seeing himself and how he looked almost made him shudder. His face had a few boils, and his beard was splotchy and missing some parts.

Touching his face slowly, Kaen could see Ava wince as he did.

“I had hoped you might not realize–”

“How awful I look?”

She nodded, moving a step closer to him. “It’s all over. I lifted your armor slightly but didn’t try to remove it. Father said he was surprised at how well your body defended against the spell. We both believe it has to do with Pammon and your connection as well as your lifestone giving you resistance to it so quickly.”

“Help me take it off?”

She moved and helped him as Kaen struggled to undo the pieces. Standing still was hard enough, so he let Ava do most of the work.

Eventually, everything but his underwear was off.

His entire body was covered in boils and splotches. None of it hurt, yet the view of it made his stomach almost roll. Even though he was a mountain of muscle that reminded him of Hess years ago, Kaen felt like he looked like a monster.

You are fine. She does not care how you look. She is just grateful that you are alive, as am I.

But–

No buts, rejoice in the fact that you are alive and that it appears you will recover. Lord Hurem said that you will regain your eyesight at some point. He is certain. For now, you need to rest.

Ava moved up next to him, and Kaen saw her as she started to reach out to touch his arm.

Flinching, he moved, his directions backward, his arm slamming into her and sending her into the table before she fell to the ground.

As she landed on the stone floor with a thump and a cry, Kaen felt his legs weaken and fell to the ground near her.

“I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to!”

Ava nodded and brushed herself off. Kaen could see the wince she had made.

“It’s ok. I am fine," she said.

Realizing that he had just risked injuring, Kaen backed away and began to sob. He let his lifestone stop burning and found comfort in the darkness.

You need to stop this!

Flinching, Kaen heard the voice echo in his mind.

A hand touched his shoulder, and it took everything he had not to pull away.

“This is my fault! All this happened because I didn’t listen to Pammon and leave when I should have. I look like this because of–”

“Please stop, my love.” Ava’s voice was breaking, and he felt something wet against his skin. “I cannot bear to see you in this pain. I don’t care how you look. I care that you are alive. Does Sulenda care that Hess doesn’t have an arm?”

“But I have to defend against–”

“You are not alone. This isn’t just your fight.” Ava’s voice had changed to the firm tone she used. “Stop thinking you must do this alone. Stop believing that every time someone dies, it is your fault. Everyone in this kingdom is willing to lay down their life if it means others can live. You have done all you can, and it is time to stop believing otherwise.

“For three years we have fought shoulder to shoulder on the walls. We defended against the never-ending onslaught of creatures that attacked. How many nights have we spent fighting on the back of the dragons? Remember, I’m here with you the entire way.”

Her hand squeezed his shoulder, and he felt her moving around him. Even without his sight, he could sense her coming to kneel before him, a hand on each of his shoulders.

“We swore to love each other no matter what and to defend the other. Let me help defend you from yourself and the belief you seem to have that only you can win this battle.”

“But… Stioks is a –”

“A man… Just like you. A man who allowed himself to be foolish and overconfident and look at where it got you. He will make a mistake. He will get cocky, and when he does, we will make him pay. Together.”

Kaen nodded his head. It was true. Stioks and Juthom had made a mistake once, and they were almost able to end this war then. Surely, the man would make another. When he did, it would be the moment to act.

You are lucky I let you marry her. She is far wiser than you are.

Kaen began to laugh, smiling and bobbing his head.

“Pammon reminded me why he let you marry me. He said it was because you are much smarter than I am.”

“Of course I am,” replied Ava, her tone was now the matter-of-fact one she sometimes spoke in. “All women are smarter than men.”

Amaranth thrummed, and Kaen could hear Pammon groan.

“Now, if you don’t mind, let me help you to a chair so you can sit while I get you some food.”

Sitting there, letting Ava feed him some porridge, was more challenging than he imagined.

After about five bites, he tried doing it on his own, feeling the bowl against his lips and scooping it into his mouth with a spoon. Occasionally, Kaen felt some food fall against his chest or lap, but he didn’t care, ignoring how he must look.

“You know I don’t mind helping,” Ava said as she took the empty bowl from him.

“I know. It’s just… not knowing how long this may last, I need to try and do some things for myself.”

He couldn’t see Ava nod but felt Pammon agreeing with that statement.

“Fine, then I’ll leave some clothes here and return later. I must return to our place and get a few things together. Pammon can take me.”

Wanting to say something, Kaen bit his lip. The tone of her voice told him she wasn’t pleased with how he was handling this.

You look like an eggling trying to move after hatching… you are flopping–

“Please stop,” groaned Kaen as he lay on the ground, pulling up his pants. “I know it doesn’t look pretty, but I’m doing my best.”

I’m not making fun of you. I’m simply stating how you appear. I already offered to help guide you, but you made it clear how you feel about help.

Ignoring Amaranth’s statement, Kaen tied his drawstring with minimal issues, a lifetime of doing so, not requiring him to see it.

Reaching around slowly along the floor, Kaen began to feel for the shirt he had misplaced while trying to put his pants on.

A slight thrum came from the green dragon across the room.

After a few moments of no success, Kaen sighed. “Am I anywhere near it?”

No… go to your right, about four feet… more… more… now a little to the right… there.

Kaen felt the cloth shirt brush his outstretched fingers and grasped it quickly. He pulled it to himself and started to put it on, realizing it was on backward when the shirt was tight against his throat.

It is funny to believe you are the famous dragon rider who commanded the council to stand down, unable to–

Amaranth stopped talking when Kaen turned to face her.

He knew where she was, able to feel her presence somehow, and he glared.

“Do I need to command you to be quiet?” he asked, his voice expressing displeasure at how she was talking to him.

I shall refrain from further teasing. Forgive me. I thought since you and Pammon did it, we would be ok with a little fun.

Grunting, Kaen forced himself to take a deep breath and let it out slowly.

“I’m sorry… I am on edge, and you do not deserve to be talked to like that. Forgive me.”

He heard her talons coming across the floor toward him, and a moment later, as he sat there on the ground, he felt her breath against him before her snout barely touched his forehead.

Forgive me. I should have been kinder to the one who freed me. Now sit still and let me see if I can assist with your injury.

The warm touch of her healing spread over him, and Kaen could feel it running through his body.

She focused it on his head, and it was like a gentle summer breeze blowing through his hair and over his face. It calmed him, taking some of his worry and angst as he felt the magic flowing through him.

Time seemed to stretch on as he sat there, enjoying the peace that came from whatever Amaranth was doing.

When it stopped, he felt a slight gust of air come from her nostrils.

Whatever that poultice is seems to be working. I can sense it doing something, but you still have at least a week before you may recover any sight at all. Your skin is also healing itself on its own. In a few days, I expect those boils to be gone.

“Doesn’t your magic heal them?”

No… those are different in some way. Elies had something like that, but it was a darker magic. A common thread exists between them, but both are resistant to healing. It is like… flying into a powerful storm. It is possible, but the time it takes to fight the wind may not be worth the effort. It would be best to wait it out and save your strength. You are stronger than Elies was. Your life stone is different.

Kaen nodded, knowing the truth of what she said.

Turning, he looked toward the entrance to the cave where they sat with both eggs.

“Pammon is returning.”

Yes, I can sense him too.

“He likes you.”

Kaen’s statement caught Amaranth off guard, and it sounded like she choked for a second before regaining her composure.

What has he said? What do you mean?!

Grinning, Kaen shook his head. “Just know he cares about you both. Even though he isn’t sure how to show that or tell you, be gentle with him. For so long, it was just him and me. He didn’t have another dragon to relate to. When Tharnok came along, it wasn’t a close relationship. Every day, he was trained to be a fighter. Now... now he is learning to love.”

The slightest trill came from Amaranth for a second before it went silent.

Only the sound of wind and her breathing could be heard for a minute.

Thank you. You surprise me every day. Somehow, you have given me hope even when I know you are missing yours.

Holding his hand out, Kaen waited. Amaranth moved forward, putting her snout against his hand.

Scratching it gently, Kaen nodded. “Family does that.”

When Life Hits Hard

The absence of vision made knowing what time it was difficult. Not needing as much sleep amplified Kaen's frustration as he listened to Pammon.

You need to come with me. Sitting here will do you no good.

“But if people see me, it will–”

It will be impossible. I will not fly near the city. For now, we need to get you out of here. In a few hours, we can go pick up Ava. She said she wanted to pack a few things and rest.

Frustrated, Kaen sighed and nodded. “Fine, we can fly for a bit, but I don’t want to be seen by anyone. If word gets out–”

It will not come from me, Pammon interrupted, moving closer to Kaen. Stop complaining because I won’t let you chase a chicken and get on my back.

A chuckle escaped Kaen’s lips, and he groaned.

What is this about a chicken? Could he not catch one?

Amaranth’s question sent Kaen and Pammon into a fit of laughter as Kaen followed Pammon’s neck until he found the groove he knew to grab onto. Years of practice allowed him to do this in his sleep, and now, with no way to see, Kaen found himself sitting exactly where he belonged.

I’m still confused about this chicken. Is it a real chicken?

It was a chicken. Back when Pammon was young. He wanted to eat it, but I never let him.

So this is one of those jokes you two share…

Pammon thrummed, vibrating beneath Kaen’s legs.

It is. Do not worry. One day, we will joke about things that make you upset.

That doesn’t seem very wise.

Family often doesn’t seem to care as long as the others think it is funny.

Amaranth snorted.

Go fly. I will guard both eggs until Glynnis returns. When she does, I will need some time to be free.

Hearing the click of Kaen’s harness, Pammon turned and moved to the edge of the cave entrance.

When she gets back, we can fly together.

A trill came from inside the cave as Pammon leaped into the air.

She will hold you to that, teased Kaen, feeling the familiar scale on Pammon’s neck as the wind rushed against him.

Kaen felt awful after Ava made him drop her off at their old place to collect items. She told him to listen to Pammon, as he was acting like an eggling.

You are being stubborn. Stop holding back and use my eyes. Why ignore what we have and limit yourself?

Tired of Pammon's pestering for the last hour or so, Kaen gave in, letting his lifestone burn so that he could see the world through his friend's golden eyes.

A calm flooded Kaen’s mind as the world below him came alive. The world moved beneath them in the light of the evening sun. Carts flowed in the streets, and people walked along the sidewalks.

Everywhere Pammon’s eyes moved, Kaen saw life and felt connected to it all.

It appears that I was right, as usual. Next time, you should just obey my advice the first time I offer it.

Ignoring Pammon’s words, Kaen lost himself in the moment. All the panic and fear disappeared as he saw the world beneath him. Life went on, and he knew that in time, things would also return to normal for him. He had things to accomplish.

That is it. Let go of the frustration you feel. Let me do what I can. It has been a long time since you just enjoyed our time in the sky. The kingdoms has been dependent upon us since Elias and Tharnok passed. Without them there to protect from Stioks we became the wall that holds back the waves of oppression.

How did the two of them ever manage to stay so strong for so long?

Pammon’s mind wandered as they flew.

I don’t know. We have chased enough false reports, and the knowledge the spies have been working within our kingdom cost us greatly those first few years. When Herb’s people found the caves with the same portals as the ones to the south, and all the mines empty, we knew just how far ahead of us Stioks has been. We’ve gone in circles sometimes. Even though the attack on the Orc King didn’t go as we planned we have learned more than we want to admit. Now we know why so many continued to crash against our walls.

Pammon, I caused this… my actions at the orc castle and today when I pushed –”

It was an accident. Ava will not blame you. I need you, and she needs you to be the man she fell in love with. Bold, brave and committed to protecting others.

Do not beat yourself up about this. The kingdom needs the dragon rider who fought back the horde, not the one who cries on my back right now.

What do you mean?! How can you say that right now?!

Because I am your dragon and your friend.

Because we are bound. You and I know you have acted like a whipped dog, moving with your tail between your legs this last year. Every day has been a battle of your spirit due to regret.

Ava and I won’t be able to deal with you if you sink deeper into regret. Stioks won’t have to worry about defeating you because that will happen on your own.

You don’t understand! How many have died--

How many have lived because of the sacrifices you have made? What would happen if you had attacked, and we died? How many more would have perished? This isn’t a game we can play of what if. Deal with the task at hand.

Your wife needs you right now. She needs her husband to be present and strong. When the time comes, and you can change gears, that time isn’t now.

Kaen sat there, feeling like Pammon had slapped him across the face.

His heart hurt in so many ways, yet the truth of what Pammon had just said fought against every emotion that wanted to keep Kaen encaged. His soul was defeated, and Kaen realized that he was tired.

I will try… I cannot promise to always be strong, but I will do what I must for Ava and you.

Commitment

Pammon flew to an area along the mountain and when he spotted a cliff large enough for him to land, he set down on it, his massive wings flapping and fighting against the wind that wanted to push him off.

Why are we stopping here?

I want to do something, and we are going to make a pact. Glynnis had mentioned to me that dragons once created something to mark special places and moments long ago. Together you and I can do that. We can choose from this day forward to be different. To no longer live in the past and to focus completely on the future. No matter what life throws at us.

Sitting on his dragons neck, Kaen felt confused but watched through Pammon’s eyes as his dragon moved to a massive rock pressed against the mountain.

What are you fighting for?

No more families hurt… no more families broken… to keep them together…

Kaen’s lifestone began to burn.

Remember how you felt when you thought Hess was going to die. Remember that moment. Let those feelings overtake you.

Goosebumps appeared all over Kaen’s body as he remembered that day. The moment Pammon had told him Hess was about to die and that he was going to have a daughter. In that moment, Kaen relieved all that pain and hurt, and those fears and a clear thread of why it had mattered so much swept over Kaen.

His lifestone surged, power flowing through him and making his body pulse with energy.

Yes! Give it to me! Let me have all of that!

Kaen grunted and put both hands on Pammon’s scales along his massive neck. He could no longer reach around his dragon’s neck, which had become so broad as he had grown. Sliding his hands along his friend's scales, Kaen embraced Pammon's neck as much as he could, letting each scale he felt along his skin act as a conduit for what he was about to do.

Face pressed against a scale, Kaen gave it all to his dragon. He felt the power leaving him, pouring through that connection.

Heat began to rise inside Pammon, hotter than any other time Kaen had felt before. The very scales he was embracing felt like the heat of a forge.

Inside Pammon was a torrent of emotions and strength. Kaen could feel the sadness and hurt Pammon felt along with a commitment to the goal they had both agreed on years ago.

And then the power came from out of Pammon and through his mouth.

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Seeing through his dragon’s eyes, Kaen watched as a flame so hot it was only blue a few yards past the tip of Pammon’s snout before it turned white and then almost vanished. It was still there, but Kaen could only see it because of how Pammon’s eyes saw everything.

Like an almost invisible focused stream of fire, it poured out and began to heat the rock Pammon had focused it on.

Together, they watched the stone change color, turning a bright red, and then started melting. What seemed like forever was only a few moments, but everything changed as the rock became a hot pile of some weird material. Once it reached an almost white stage, Pammon cut off his flame and quickly moved forward, pushing his talons against the rock, pressing down on it with all the force he could muster.

Pain surged through his dragon’s talons, and Kaen was about to cry out, but he heard Pammon say no, not through words but through their connection.

A hissing sound rose, and a few heartbeats later, Pammon pulled back his talons and looked at the stone, which was turning clear.

What is that?!

Dragon crystal. It is only capable of being made by a dragon with a rider. No other dragon can gather the power I just had without one like you pouring your strength into me.

Kaen watched through Pammon’s eyes, trying to ignore the pain he felt coming from Pammon as he poured his own life into his friend. The rock suddenly became absolutely clear.

How… why…

Words failed Kaen as he understood what his friend had done. Joy flooded him, and he squeezed his friend's neck.

Thank you.

Pammon snorted, and Kaen realized his dragon was crying.

Today we will no longer cry because you are blind. Instead we will rejoice because you are something new. Stronger because of the pain. I will do anything for you.

And I you.

Pammon turned his neck, focusing his wet, golden eyes on his rider, who sat on his body.

Then promise me to stop this path you have been on lately. Let go of the pain and hurt from the weight you force yourself to carry. Today, be free. Be the boy who called out to me when I was a hatchling, and I swore my life too. You are a king. Act like one.

Unconsciously, Kaen sat up and grabbed his chest with his hand. It throbbed with pain and hurt as he realized just how bad he must have been for Pammon to speak to him like this. He chose this moment, knowing he could be open to hearing the truth.

You have my word. I will do everything I can to be the man worthy of calling you friend and Dragon Rider. Forgive me for being an eggling.

Pammon thrummed and moved his head forward, putting his nose into Kaen’s chest and then pulling back when he realized how hot it still was as he heard the searing of flesh.

Sorry, I did–

Kaen grabbed Pammon’s jaw and held him in place, letting the pain of his friend’s mouth stay there just a moment longer.

We both needed to feel this.

When Kaen let go, Pammon grinned, seeing how Kaen’s jaw had changed in just a moment. It was firm and set, committed to a path both knew they needed to take.

Let us return to our mates.

Amaranth had been upset and healed both of them but said nothing else once Pammon had told her what he had done. She looked at him differently as he moved to curl up around her, encircling her entire body with his massive one.

You are different… what changed up there?

Kaen has remembered what is required. He will no longer be the coward and fool he has been playing at for the last while. As of today, he will be the man this kingdom and land needs.

Pammon took his neck and gently wrapped his around hers, listening to her trill as his scales slid across the ones she had.

Tomorrow, we must leave, and you need to take care of Ava. He will tell her what must be done. He must go if he is to act upon the promise he made. You will need to be the wise one I know you are and guide her during these times. I am grateful that you and Glynnis both gave her a tooth.

Still trilling, Amaranth closed her eyes and let out a soft groan.

You are wiser than I give you credit for. Doing this with me, touching me like this, and then telling me you must go, all while also giving me a task that we both know only I can accomplish… Tell me where you are going to go.

We need to try and find Glynnis. It has been a while, and I had expected her to return. Now is not the time to be weak, which means we must either help her or ensure she is on her way back. While I am gone, I entrust you with what I hold most dear.

Amaranth shuffled slightly, her trilling stopping as she rotated her head to see Pammon’s golden eyes looking at her.

Some might be upset to hear that a human female is more important than anything else.

Pammon thrummed and squeezed his neck around hers a little tighter.

I did not say you were not important… you simply like to hear me say that you are.

Amaranth began to thrum slightly as her head moved up and down.

And yet you still have not said those words…

Snorting, Pammon growled slightly before releasing a blast of air from his nose.

If I didn’t know any better, Ava has been causing you to act more like a human. However…

Unraveling his neck from Amaranths, Pammon moved till his snout was just a few inches from hers.

Amaranth, you are important to me, and I am grateful every day that we were able to rescue you all those years ago. I look forward to hundreds of years spent with you by my side.

Pammon watched as her eyes changed color. They had begun to change since she got pregnant. Neither she nor Glynnis knew how or why, as there were very few stories told between dragons about one's eyes ever-changing.

The copper color they were becoming sparkled as she touched the tip of her snout to his.

And I look forward to many more flights with you across the sky. Now embrace me again and sleep. I can feel the exhaustion seeping through your bones.

Pammon winked as he encircled her neck again with his, and they laid their heads down next to each other on the stone floor.

Across the room, Kaen smiled as he held Ava. He could feel what Pammon felt at that moment.

Tomorrow would be a new day.

Ava had not been excited at the news of their departure, but she accepted it.

Kaen was different and she could sense it.

Even though he was blind, he walked like a man whose eyes were locked on a specific purpose. Best of all, Kaen acted like he had actual hope.

So when she kissed him goodbye, the pain she felt of seeing him blind hurt less. Knowing her husband was acting like the man she had fallen in love with made all her pain feel less.

We need to go and see your mother. She told me to fetch her today.

“I can stay here until you get back,” Ava replied, wiping a few wet spots from her cheeks.

I will not leave you alone. You are family and I will not abandon family.

Turning to look at the green dragon wrapped around the two eggs, Ava saw those massive eyes, green at the moment, staring at her.

“When did we become family?” Ava asked, a slight laughter escaping her lips.

Pammon reminded me of that, and I have been remiss to acknowledge it. You have shared, your home, and everything else with me. I have never been treated so nicely by most of my kind, yet you did not attempt to make me feel like anything less than you. I thought…

Amaranth paused a moment, unwrapping herself from the eggs, and began moving toward Ava.

I thought that perhaps you might use Kaen to make me obey. To force me to do things I might not want to do. You never have. Today, you reminded me of the woman that you are. I might have bonded with you if I had known you as a hatchling. I sense a kindred spirit in you. That is why I will make you a promise.

Amaranth was now only a few yards from Ava. She lowered herself to the ground and slid her head along it until her snout was just a foot from her.

If you promise me to help both of our mates to act as the kings they are and love us as they should, I will treat you as if you were my rider. If I hear it, I will always answer your call and defend you and yours as if they were my own egg. Do we have a deal?

Ava stood there, not realizing for a moment that her mouth was open as she saw Amaranth approach her and the words that echoed in her mind.

Reaching out with her hand, Ava tried to hold it still as it trembled. Tears rolled down her cheek as she put her hand against those green scales.

“I would be honored to consider you family and even more honored to call you a friend.”

Ava took her other hand and pulled out a necklace with two dragon teeth attached. Smiling, she took her hand off Amaranth’s snout, moved her hand to the tooth she knew was from the green dragon, and pressed hard with it into her palm. It began to bleed, and Ava then put the hand back on Amaranth’s scales.

“I promise to protect you just like I would Kaen or Pammon. I also promise to protect your eggs and those that come from it.”

Amaranth trilled, a green glow surrounding her as she poured power into her snout. Ava’s hand on her snout glowed, as did the tooth on her necklace.

Wait… I am almost…

The glow got brighter around Ava’s hands and she stood there in shock at what she felt and witnessed. Then the tooth she held dissolved, vanishing into nothing and Ava felt a presence in her mind grow.

We are bonded as much as we can be. Pammon told me of this and you are worthy of what it costs.

You can hear me as Pammon does?

… I can feel you when we are this close. Now, wipe those tears and let us go see your mother.

Laughing and wiping her nose, Ava nodded. She then suddenly threw both arms around Amaranth’s snout.

Thank you… Thank you more than I can say with words.

Your heart says them for you. Now… let us go do what females must do. Be strong and make sure those males do not screw up the world.

Ava burst into laughter and nodded. She wiped a few more wet spots from her cheeks as she moved to where the saddles were kept.

Kaen and Pammon had returned to his home and picked up some equipment to replace what he had lost. His dragon-scale chest piece and leggings were fine, but the rest of his clothes had fallen apart from the spell that had touched him.

Outfitted for battle, Kaen set off, eye still wrapped like a blind man but without feeling defeated. He knew that Pammon was right. It was time for him to be the person he had been chosen by the world to be.

Two days had passed with hard flying, and Kaen could see how bad the land below them had become. The southwest part of the desert and the rotted wood area had spread further north, the infection of the land seemingly shifting more and more every day.

It has gotten worse than the last time we were out here.

With Amaranth and Glynnis pregnant their ability to fly here when reports came in wasn’t an option. We were already struggling to keep the orc army at bay. Aldric and Herb’s scouts didn’t report back this kind of rot the last time they came out here. Evil plans must be in motion and speeding things up.

Kaen rubbed the scale he had touched thousands of times and said nothing. There was nothing to say, and he was here, doing what they both knew must be done.

An hour later, Pammon felt his mind being reached out to.

Glynnis is head! They are fighting!

[ Flight Burst Activated ]

Kaen leaned forward, hugging his dragon's neck as Pammon took off without warning. The moment Pammon spoke, Kaen knew what he was going to do.

What did she say? I cannot feel her or reach her.

Since she arrived, there have been nonstop battles. She says she has seen over twenty thousand kobolds.

That number seemed impossible, but Kaen knew it had to be true. All the fighting they had done against the orcs and goblins had taught everyone how to count armies quickly.

I’m assuming there is more? I can feel it inside you.

There are very few towns left out here. The report from Tioanoe is that there may be less than five thousand total people alive now. The fighting and the lack of food have gotten to them as well. Most children and older adults have fled toward the sea, hoping to find somewhere in that kingdom that might take them. Or at least a place to rest.

That report burned inside Kaen. Kaen knew he was to blame for getting this bad and blocked out the emotions that tried to bury him under an avalanche of guilt. There was no place for those feelings. He was here and now they would do what they could to help fight and save Tioanoe and her people.

Fly fast… we will bring death to those kobolds.

[ Flight Burst Expired ]

Kaen felt like he was watching a massive group of ants as he looked down at the kobold army to the west.

I think there may be more than twenty thousand… Glynnis, how are you holding up?

If you two had not come today, I would have had to abandon these people. There is little left I can give. Sleeping has been almost impossible unless I fly away, and when I do the kobolds attack, killing everyone I leave behind. The people Herb gave me are out of arrows and exhausted. Getting mana or sleep for them appears to be just as impossible.

Where is Tioanoe?

Pammon’s eyes shifted. The place he was looking at was so far away that even his vision couldn’t see it all.

She is there. I can tell where Glynnis is at.

Let me see the armies again. I want to consider something.

Pammon’s vision swept back to the tiny dots that moved slowly but steadily over the barren land. A long line stretched from east to west as they pushed up and to the west, driving out anyone and anything they came across.

How long can you breathe fire if you leave nothing left with your widest fan?

Pammon thrummed, well aware of what Kaen was considering.

I can hold on for about a minute, a little longer if you share your power with me. That would let me send out a stream about twenty yards wide.

And they are walking in a row, that is what? One hundred yards or so wide?

About that… it is miles long, and it will probably work.

I cannot help Glynnis chimed in. I have already exhausted the little I had today. Every day, I have pushed myself till there was nothing left. I even have a few holes in my wings and am hoping Amaranth can help heal them.

Stay close to Tioanoe and the others. We are going to be there soon, but first, Pammon is going to teach these kobolds a lesson about his strength.

Pammon laughed, thrumming as he prepared to dive toward the ground.

Be ready to give me your power when I say so. Part of me has missed not fighting like this in a while.

Kaen chuckled at that statement. Memories of when Pammon and the other dragons had to stop their breath attacks on the orc army because they had brought in massive weapons designed to bring down Pammon and the others. The first few days had been painful and glorious. The initial attack from the woods, that spell that came from some wand killed most of the guards on the wall, yet Pammon had easily taken out ten thousand troops with his breath attack. The orcs had pulled back and regrouped.

When they saw the siege weapons coming out of the forest, both knew fighting would be different.

No siege weapons in their army?

There are no trees for them to use, and the land would have worn them out. My greatest weakness is they have casters who have a weakening attack. It feels like you are swimming through water. Each time it was cast, the air above them looked like a cloud of smoke, and flying into it earned me the scars I have. Now, I have to be careful where I attack, and they keep their casters with the strongest forces.

Kaen considered that knowledge, and it bothered him to hear that.

An attack designed to stop dragons? Why would a kobold army have such a thing?

It is because Stioks must have a hand in helping them. He doesn’t fear them because he uses spells like the ones we saw that day we fought. If I had to guess, the attack the orcs used from their castle would most likely not affect him… He is–

Teaching them how to stop us…

For all these years, Stioks has invested in this moment. Today, we shall show them how ill-prepared they are for us.

Kaen grinned, rubbing his friend's neck as they dove toward the ground.

Today, you shall show the world once again just who you are, my friend.

Pammon thrummed as he dove from the sky.

Old Friends

The sensation Kaen felt as he experienced destruction through the eyes of Pammon almost overwhelmed him. His lifestone burned, and that power was shared, causing the fire that came from inside his friend to burn hotter and last longer.

Pammon came from the east, just enough off the ground and at a speed that his fire would fall under him as he breathed, covering a solid twenty-yard-wide section.

The screams and shouts that came were lost behind them as Pammon flew.

For almost a third of a mile, a blanket of fire cut off the south side of the army from the tiny section on the north side, unable to cross the fire that would take minutes before it might burn out.

Give me more… I have a little left, but I need more…

Kaen focused, feeling how tired Pammon was, watching a patch of two hundred yards be safe from the destruction Pammon was bringing.

Recalling his purpose, Kaen took a deep breath and let his power flow through the bond.

Pammon took a massive breath, and then another long stream of fire, this time a shade darker than before, came out of his snout. It burnt to a crisp the kobolds he engulfed with it, and another thirty seconds or so of fire was spent, covering at least another four hundred yards of death.

Hold on… I am out of flames, but I am not done yet.

Kaen gripped the strap that lay on his legs with one hand.

Do you want me to shoot a bow? I can–

For now, let me do this. The time may come when you need to use the limited arrows we have- there are more than we prepared for. Let me use my size and strength.

Kaen realized what Pammon was about to do, held back from warning him about how dangerous this was, and stopped. He had done enough foolish things, and Pammon had been right each time. If Pammon felt this was his time to shine, so be it.

Gripping the strap with both hands, Kaen watched as Pammon lowered himself and picked up more speed. His dragon angled himself slightly, his massive back claws and feet acting like a plow in soil, tearing up the army under him.

Half a mile passed with almost no drop in his dragon’s speed when Kaen noticed Pammon’s eyes shifting more to the west.

Up there! Do you see that group?

Kaen did because Pammon saw it. A massive army of kobolds had come together and were attacking a walled-off town. Above it, Glynnis was doing her best to keep the kobolds from surrounding it, but a grey mist hung above the main army attacking the south wall.

You aren’t showing off to impress me, are you?

Pammon ignored Glynnis’s comment as they angled toward the troops. His eyes searched until they found what Pammon had been looking for.

There are the casters, two different groups. Look at those kobolds next to them. They are a lot taller and covered in armor.

Remember the archers stationed before them as they advance. Between those two groups, I need help getting close with that spell active. And the arrows they use are not like most of the normal ones.

When Glynnis said those words, Kaen’s brain started to become active.

Pammon, can you–

I’m on it.

As if he was using a telescope that King Aldric owned and showed him one night, Pammon’s vision zoomed in on the archers in front and looked at the arrows on the back of the pack before the casters and larger kobolds.

Holy dwarf balls… those are like the arrows Hess was making me.

Those are just the tips, though, not the entire arrow.

Still! That means we found out where some of the ore that has gone missing has appeared. Stioks has gifted them the very weapons we created for him.

Forget that for now. We will be fine. Now is your turn. Take your bow and your arrows. I will get you into position and be your eyes.

Angling up, Pammon moved higher up into the sky, letting the army he had been destroying from behind get a small reprieve. When he reached about three hundred yards above the casters they needed to attack, Pammon began to hover.

Tell me what I need to do.

Kaen unhooked his bow from the clip next to him, pulled it up to his chest, and smiled. He didn’t need Pammon to show him what he was doing.

Just keep your eyes on our targets. I’ll do the rest.

A wave of satisfaction came through their bond, and Kaen pulled an arrow from the quiver tied near him.

He let his power flow into the tip and sent a shot toward the ground.

The white-tipped arrow arched, flying through the air before landing about thirty yards from his target. The kobold it impaled exploded, and a blast radiated out from it, taking out more creatures in a ten-yard radius.

A little off. You were–

I got this. Let me do it.

Kaen took another arrow and let it go, watching it fall and, this time, get closer. It hit within fifteen yards and sent another circle of death to those near the one he hit.

Turn slightly to the south and move back for a little.

Taking a deep breath, Kaen watched the chaos ensuing down below. He could see the casters and others looking up at him, but nothing they had would reach Pammon. Their attacks were worthless.

Glynnis, do you realize you could have dropped rocks or trees upon them from up here?

No reply came for a moment, and Kaen wondered if she hadn’t considered that.

There aren’t many trees or large rocks around here, and I’m not as large as Pammon. Flying around here with them would have been difficult for me.

True. Just wondering.

Pammon thrummed slightly and stopped when Kaen loaded two arrows.

What? Why did you do that?

Kaen grinned, ignoring Pammon’s question.

Let me shoot and be quiet.

There, in the blackness of no vision, Kaen breathed in slowly and then exhaled. He had cut his ability to see through Pammon’s eyes. He knew where his targets were and exactly how he needed to shoot. The time for him to do this on his own was now.

Both arrows began to spark, lightning infusing them as Kaen poured his magic and power into them. After ten seconds, he let the arrows go.

[ Twinshot Activated ]

Only then did Kaen allow himself to see through Pammon’s eyes.

His friend was tracking the two arrows as they fell to the earth. The casters and warriors had begun to spread out some, moving in different directions, but it didn't matter. Kaen had seen them and how they were responding to the threat above.

Both arrows struck simultaneously, each hitting a different kobold, and the lightning and explosion they produced did precisely what he had planned for.

He didn’t need to hit a specific creature. All he needed to do was hit a particular area and let those black-tipped arrows with their mana-infused spell inside them do the rest.

They landed sixty yards apart, each creating an area of destruction over forty yards in radius.

The ground exploded as the power he had infused went out in a circle, sending bolts of lightning that arched from each kobold to the next. When it struck the taller kobolds in their metal armor, they acted like an amplifier, arching even more and catching other kobolds.

[ Archery Skill Increased ]

That was glorious… did you just gain a point in archery?

Kaen felt the weight of so much training, practice, battles, and more vanish from him as he saw that notification.

[ Archery Skill Waiting To Be Chosen ]

Kaen?

Yeah… sorry, I just… I finally hit level forty in my archery skill, and now I can finally choose an ability.

How about you worry about that later and focus on what we are dealing with now?

Kaen snorted and started to draw arrows rapidly, each time pouring power into them momentarily before sending them down below.

The cloud is starting to disperse! I can come help!

Wait just a little longer. There are still a few archers, and I want to make sure that it is safe.

Five minutes later, the army beneath them was running away in fear. They fled once both dragons swooped in and began tearing them to pieces. Without the casters and the archers to protect them from Glynnis, it became a scene of destruction that lasted several hours as both Pammon and Glynnis ate their fill of the bodies of the creatures beneath them.

“By the spirits, what happened to you?”

Kaen smiled and shrugged as Tioanoe ran toward him as best she could. All over, she had bandages and cuts. Behind her were a few dozen other warriors who had come to see the dragon and rider that had saved their lives.

“I’d say you look awful, but you might not believe I can see all the bandages you wear,” joked Kaen as he bowed slightly. “Sorry for the delay in coming…”

Tianoe snorted and shook her head as she gazed up at Pammon. “You have grown as well… perhaps we shall let the two of you pass through our land without payment.”

A thrum came from Pammon while Kaen groaned slightly, remembering the first time he had entered their land.

“Forgive me for how long it took to help, though… the reports I had didn’t tell me it was this bad.”

She nodded slowly, and Kaen saw her spin a small colored bracelet on her arm. Pammon’s eyes let him see it clearly beneath her fingers, and he felt a twinge in his gut.

“Krudae…”

The color on Tioanoe’s face changed a little as she realized what she had done. “Yes… she has departed this world and now sits with our ancestors. She had much honor for the numbers she had sent before her.”

Kaen moved forward, able to walk much better after practicing, stood before her, and extended his hand.

As they clasped forearms, Kaen smiled and gave a slight bow. “I will pray that your ancestors know how great she was. She almost took down a dragon rider.”

A coughing fit, followed by some sniffing, plagued Tioanoe for a few seconds. “Dragon Rider Kaen, you honor us greatly.” Turning, she motioned to Glynnis, who had collapsed near Pammon and appeared asleep as his dragon moved beside her. “The dragon you sent along with the others has been a great ally in our battles. I know they are tired, and the things your dragon friend has done will be sung for many lives to come. Now tell me, how are things in your kingdom?”

Frowning, Kaen scratched his neck and then tsked his tongue against his teeth.

“Let me grab some food to share with you and your people. Then we can talk about what is happening here and at my home.”

She gave a bow and then turned, whistling and her fingers moving momentarily. A dozen of the female warriors behind her took off, running into the town, each smiling even though they were covered in wounds and blood.

“You never fail to share what you have. I am grateful as always. Please, if you will join us in our last city. Hard choices must be made.”

Kaen nodded and turned to look at Pammon.

I’ll do my best to not stumble and fall.

I have no doubt you will do fine. Tell her I will always remember Krudae. She was a fierce warrior for one so small.

Jogging, Kaen caught up with Tioanoe and put his hand on her shoulder. “Just so you know, I am blind. Right now, I can only see because Pammon is here. Once we go inside your walls, I cannot see.”

She looked back at Pammon, who nodded slightly before resting his head near Glynnis.

Glancing out over the battlefield, she noticed that the warriors appeared to be making sure all the kobolds were dead. She tugged her ear for a moment.

“Then we will eat out here. They will understand when I tell them you must remain to protect your dragons.”

Laughing, Kaen gave her shoulder a squeeze and bowed. “Thank you for that.”

“No Dragon Rider,” Tioanoe replied, her voice strong and steady. “We thank you for honoring your promise. Today, we are prepared to die and hope our children and older ones might live. Now we believe we can see them soon. That gift is far greater than you will ever know.”

Smiling, Kaen held back the pain he felt at how he understood more than she realized.

Leadership Choices

Experience had made Kaen pack an entire basket of food. He knew it was the one thing people didn’t have in times of war, and even though it was most of what he had stored for his trips, he shared it willingly, seeing the eyes of those who got a small piece of meat and some hard bread.

Each one bowed and thanked him for his kindness before moving off to enjoy it while they waited for a pot of broth that was being cooked to satisfy their hungry stomachs.

“So you believe this is the work of the other dragon rider? Do you believe there will be a break from our battle?”

Kaen let out the breath he had been holding in slowly as he studied Tioanoe's face in the light of the fire. Pammon was kind enough to keep one eye open so that he could react to everyone who had offered him thanks.

“My honest answer is not for long. Today, they suffered greatly, but they will regroup, and their tactics will change. I cannot keep Glynnis out here forever, as she needs to return soon…” He paused and leaned close, motioning her to join him. “She has an egg and has to protect it and be near it.”

Kaen smiled as Tioanoe’s mouth fell open, and she leaned her head to get a better look at the yellow dragon that had defended them this past week.

“Will she allow someone to bound with it?” she whispered.

Kaen nodded. “I have two young men who are ready. Over the last five years, both have proven themselves to be someone I could trust with that power and responsibility. Sadly, it will be a month or two before the eggs hatch, and even then, it will be many months before either of them can ride their dragon.”

She nodded and tapped her chin a few times while staring into the evening sky. “Imagine riders again, protecting the land… it seems like a dream we will not want to wake up from.”

“There is still much I must do… we all must do. Stioks is active, and I have no doubt, after seeing what I saw here and holding those arrows in my hands, that he played a role in your downfall.”

The woman spat on the ground, grimacing at that news again. “What did we ever do to that man? He has never come to our lands, and we would have allowed him free travel!”

Sighing, Kaen shook his head. “Stioks doesn’t care about that… in fact, I think he only cares for himself and some dream or vision he has in his head- a place where everyone obeys him absolutely.”

“So what do you think we should do?”

Her question frustrated Kaen as neither of the two choices he felt were good. Each would mean they would lose a part of who Tioanoe’s people were. Both could still result in their entire group being wiped out.

“The answer isn’t simple, and you already know what one of my choices would be if not both.”

She grimaced and turned her eyes to the burning fire between them.

“Go join our people who have fled north and try to find a place there…”

Kaen nodded. “Or…”

She sighed, picking up a small stick, breaking it a few times, and then throwing it into the fire. “Or move to Ebonmount and try to survive there.”

“Neither of which promises your people will be who they are now. Both hold problems and may change you and your people forever,” Kaen replied. The question is, what do they want? I know you are a proud and strong group. There are still plenty of woods to the north where game and opportunities lie. However, we also know that the king who owns them will one day come, demanding tribute or more.”

Neither spoke as she chewed on his words for a few.

“Being a leader isn’t great, is it?” she asked, frowning as she did.

Kaen chuckled and shook his head. “So many think being in charge is the greatest position one can have. A worthy leader loses sleep and more because they always care about those they are over. Life shifts from becoming about them to everyone else. They sacrifice everything to ensure the people they are responsible for have what they need. And the choices they must make…”

Kaen smiled as she looked at him. Pammon was there, listening and watching.

“We have to learn to not regret when our decisions don’t go as we had hoped. We cannot live in fear of not making another one lest more people suffer. Sitting by, choosing not to choose, is far worse. Chaos breaks out, and people lose faith in their leaders. When that happens, everything will fall apart on the inside.”

“You sound like you are speaking from experience,” Tioanoe said. “Is that what happened?”

Kaen nodded. “It took a great loss and some words from a stubborn old friend to help me realize it. Instead, I will do what I must because I don’t want another to suffer like you.”

She was staring at the fire again, her head nodding slowly.

Minutes passed as neither said a word, each considering the choices to be made.

Eventually, Tioanoe stood up and stretched. “I will decide in the morning when the sun rises.” She went to a knee and touched her head to the ground. “Thank you, as always, for your friendship.”

Kaen smiled and gave a slight nod with his head. She moved off to join her people who had moved back inside the last town they called home.

After she was gone, Kaen stood up and moved to where Pammon was waiting for him.

I am still determining which path she may choose.

Kaen smiled and scratched Pammon’s snout.

I don’t think she will choose either of those.

Do you think she will stay and fight?

Tapping his finger against one of Pammon’s scales, Kaen realized he had tilted his head up toward the sky even though he couldn’t see.

Scratching his beard, he shook his head.

No… she will choose a path she will come up with. I know she never wanted power, but she also knows the burden of it better than most. She will be a great leader if she can protect them long enough to survive.

Moving to a small space between Pammon and Glynnis, Kaen sat down and leaned back against the two of them.

Thank you again for being stubborn and wise.

Pammon thrummed once, stopping when he remembered how late it was and feeling Glynnis stir slightly.

Thank you for listening and doing what you must.

Kaen scratched a scale, took a deep breath, and scooted himself back until he was snug between the two dragons. Letting out the breath, he smiled.

Remind me that tomorrow when I tell you my next plans.

A groan came from Pammon as he snorted.

Go to sleep.

Grateful for the morning and the need to arise, Kaen found himself rested even after a few nightmares that often came.

Tioanoe was waiting for him outside his camp with a fire going.

“Part of me wants to ask what it is like to see through your dragon's eyes. The other part of me really wants to ask how you go to the bathroom like that.”

Kaen started to howl with laughter, and even Pammon thrummed having heard her question.

“Both are different… I won’t say I have ever hidden anything from Pammon before, but needing his assistance with the second question was beyond either of our imaginations.”

She chuckled and nodded. “I have decided what we will do.”

Kaen stood where he was, crossing his arms and waiting for her decision.

“We will go collect our older and younger people and then move to a place mentioned in stories long ago. A place that lies between both the elf kingdom and the kingdom of the waters. There, we will grow strong again and perhaps be able to come back here in a few generations and start over. We also may decide that is the next place for us. Living in a space where neither kingdom holds much power and may ignore us, waiting for the other to deal with us.”

“That is a wise plan,” Kaen said, smiling at her. “I told Pammon last night you would choose your own path, and I am glad that you have. When will you leave?”

“The preparations have already begun. Everyone who can is collecting supplies that we will take with us. It will be a hard journey, but you are right. The enemy won’t wait forever, and we need to be gone while we have your protection. They will wait a few days or maybe even a week to see if you are truly gone before attacking again.”

“Then I will let you and your people do what you must. Pammon and Glynnis will eat a few more of the bodies before we go. I also have things I need to do before returning to Ebonmount.”

Moving toward her, Kaen held out his hand once more and smiled as she took his forearm. Both of them pulled forward in a small embrace.

“Know that if you ever need my help, I will do what I can to answer the call,” Kaen said as he broke their embrace.

“I, too, will do what I can to help if you need it. Until then, I will pray to our ancestors to watch over you and your dragon as you keep the task of protecting this land.”

She bowed once and turned, never the one for long goodbyes.

Kaen chuckled as he and Pammon watched her walk away.

She is in a much better mood today than last night.

It is because she has found her purpose and drive like you. People are best when they have a goal they know is right and work toward it.

When did you become so wise? I still remember an eggling who always wanted to eat a chicken because he thought it insulted him…

Pammon growled and closed his eyes, keeping them shut so that Kaen couldn’t see where he was moving.

Walking toward where he knew Pammon was, Kaen realized he was centered even in the darkness. His mind allowed him to use his other senses to start to pick up where things were and what he had seen.

You are not going to make fun of me now are– OUCH!

Pammon’s eyes flew open as he yanked his head from where it had been resting on the ground. Kaen stood a few steps from where his head had been, smiling and waving his hand in the air.

Dang, your scales hurt…

My scales! You slapped me!

Kaen started to laugh as he felt Pammon diving at him with his head.

He rolled to the side and was on his feet, prepared for the change in direction as Pammon approached him.

They collided, Kaen grabbing as much of Pammon’s snout as he could. He was pushed back along the ground but did not give up his grip on his friend.

How are you doing that?! You’re not using my eyes!

Pammon pulled back the other way, and Kaen let him get dragged again before letting go and rolling to his feet.

I’m not sure, but my lifestone is acting weird. It’s like I can somehow sense what is going on around me…

I swear if you get a skill, I will make you walk home.

Laughing, Kaen walked straight to Pammon and stopped a foot away.

It only works with you right now. I just know where I am and what was around me…

Snorting, Pammon stood up and moved away from Kaen toward the kobold corpses.

Well, I’m going to get breakfast. We need to leave anyway. What is your plan, oh great dragon rider?

The sarcasm of Pammon's question oozed through their bond, but Kaen ignored it.

We need to check on the elves… something tells me report which came in a few days ago may be even worse than here.

Difficult Revelations

So… you’ve been quiet. You're going to tell me what you’re thinking about.

Kaen smiled. He knew what he wanted to do the moment they were in the air, and he had some time to finally check the choices for his new archery skill.

Archery Skill Choices

[ Fan Shot ]

[ Homing Shot ]

Looking at the two choices, Kaen considered the best option.

I'd like your opinion about a skill selection and which one you think I should take.

A hint of curiosity swept through their bond, and Kaen chuckled slightly as Pammon continued to fly into the sky.

I can choose Fan Shot, which Sedel used in that archery contest. It has many uses but also goes through arrows quickly. The other is Homing Shot, but if I remember correctly, its cooldown is brutal.

How bad are we talking?

Twenty-four hours. Fan Shot has a thirty-minute cooldown.

And does the homing shot do what it actually says?

From the two books that I read, it will track and follow its target, but it’s not like I can aim for a specific part of the body. It simply strikes whatever it hits first.

So, if someone knew that, they could use a shield or even a weapon to block it?

Exactly. So, against a shielded warrior, it would be better to fire it off behind them and let it come around from behind. Otherwise, it would make a direct straight line for them and run into their shield.

Pammon was weighing the choices with a different mindset than Kaen was.

One considered it from a dragon’s perspective, while the other considered it from the archers' point of view.

What would happen if one of those was fired at me and I took off in Flight Burst?

I have no idea. The book only stated the obvious information about it. It doesn’t avoid walls, but it simply tracks the target. If you step to the side, it will turn around in an arc and come at you. If trees, a wall, a mountain, or anyone else gets in the way of it behind you, then it will be gone.

That sounds like a terrible skill to shoot from the air. It would crash into the ground.

Yet it sounds like a great skill to shoot from the ground into the air or in the air at something already in the air.

Pammon grumbled as Kaen continued to toss out possible scenarios on which skill might work best when.

I’m tired of trying to figure this out… do you have to pick now?

Nope. I just thought I would ask your opinion. I was going to wait to talk with Hess and maybe Herb, but I have no idea. We carry a lot of arrows, and that means Fa–

No more… please. My head hurts, and it’s not even my skill.

Laughing, Kaen nodded and then let out a sigh.

I’ll stop talking about it… it’s just that I waited so long, and now that I finally have a forty in archery, I can –

Kaen froze, realizing again something else he had forgotten.

Sensing Kaen's elevated heart rate and how he was moving behind him, Pammon turned and saw Kaen unhooking his bow and holding it in his hands.

The locked part of your bow…

[Inspect Bow ]

Bonded Bow of Archer -

+ 5 to Dex + 3 to archery

Unlocked: Rune of Piercing - Arrow penetrates all armor and defense by 30% more.

Holy dwarf balls… the arrows provide a thirty percent bonus to penetrating all armor and defenses…

Pammon said nothing, continuing to stare at Kaen as they flew to the north.

That seems really powerful. Tell me I’m wrong.

You aren’t wrong. Imagine what that would do to even you… Imagine if I had that when we fought Tharnok or Juthom…

This changes some things for sure. At least you had Tioanoe collect all those arrow tips from the kobolds. Hopefully, there is enough for a few more arrows.

Kaen nodded, holding the bow his father had made for him so many years ago. Pammon had turned his attention back toward the sky he was rapidly climbing, and all Kaen could do was feel the power of it through his hands.

Thanks, Hoste… you always keep looking out for me.

The first day flying north toward the elven kingdom reminded Kaen of all the life that still existed. Everywhere, trees grew tall, and Pammon mentioned how many deer and boars he saw inside the forest. When they camped, it wasn’t long before Pammon caught one for Kaen to cook once Pammon had eaten his fill. Skinning a deer and gutting it was not something he wanted to do while he couldn’t see.

How much longer are you going to be blind?

Kaen sighed and looked toward Glynnis, who was reclining on the ground near Pammon.

I have no idea, but hopefully, it will be no more than another week or two. I'm not supposed to take the bandages off, and in case something happens, I have two more in my supplies so that I can put them back on.

Glynnis snorted and shook her head.

Why do men always rush in and fight first, not paying attention to what might be around them? You could have picked up some rocks or trees and dropped them on the castle.

Pammon erupted in a thrum so loud that every bird within a hundred yards leapt from the trees and flew away.

After his dragon had settled down, Kaen chuckled a little bit.

You got me there. As you said, I didn’t use my brain. I was angry and upset and thought I was invincible. Now look at me. One mistake cost me my vision.

Remind me again why we are going out here. I thought you said the elves were not under your protection after what they tried to do to you.

Pammon snorted, and Kaen shrugged.

That was their old king and his daughter. They have been dead for three years. I have been remiss in checking in on them as I should have. The elves helped as much as possible, sending supplies and food during our battle with the orcs. Sadly, their land still suffered the loss of their tree.

Kaen turned his attention to the fire and the food cooking on it. Having only cut off the backstraps, the food was cooking quickly, and he knew it would be ready in another minute. Pammon, as always, was more than happy to eat the rest of the deer.

I just wish I had known about their tree… who knew a single thing could provide that much power to a kingdom… now their land produces far less, and the elves seem to grow older faster.

Has it really been half a year since we have been there?

Seven months and a few weeks, but not that I kept count. Still, their elders have been kind and understand my reservations about coming that often. They still profusely apologize every time we come.

Bosgreth has been the greatest asset of all. We still need to visit him, and then, at some point, I need to stop in and check on the wood elves…

After the elves, you need to go home for a bit, though. Ava will need you, and you need to be with her. Do not forsake your obligation to her because of the duty you feel you owe.

Pulling one of the sticks off the spit he had built, Kaen nodded and took a bite of the meat, sucking in air as the hot meat burned his tongue slightly.

I’m a dragon that breathes fire, yet I don’t try to swallow something I know will burn my mouth.

I’ve always wondered how that works.

Glynnis’s head popped up, and a slight trill came from her.

I can tell you! It’s the saliva! As a dragon begins to…

Kaen closed his eyes and relaxed against Pammon. He and Pammon had no idea that Glynnis would spend half an hour talking about how each dragon had different saliva that protected them based on the magic they used. She also knew about the glands in their mouths and along their throats. If they had to kill another dragon, Kaen was certain those glands would be useful in some way to the adventurers' guild or Lord Hurem.

With Pammon’s eyes closed, he could only embrace the darkness of the world around him. He listened to the sound of the insects and the crackling of the logs becoming embers. He could smell the smoke and the clean air of the trees here. The land smelled different from the battlefield and town just a day ago.

Without his eyes, it was as if every one of his other senses was on overdrive. When he concentrated, he could hear or smell better. The meat had tasted amazing, and Kaen could taste the wood he had speared it with, the oils in it having escaped from the heat and coated the inside of his dinner. He had never noticed these small things, even though he had experienced most of them hundreds of times.

I’m not saying I want to be blind forever, but I wonder what I could learn if I tried while I was.

Going to sleep, Kaen decided to visit Master Brin when he got back and see what that man might be able to teach him.

Something is wrong… can you smell that?

Kaen nodded. He had started to smell it almost the same time Pammon had.

There is smoke up ahead also. The clouds… a haze beneath them of whatever must be burning.

We had a fire once that did something like what this feels like… it was a massive lightning storm that ravaged one of the territories after a dry season. So much was destroyed.

Pammon, can we speed up but not use your flight burst?

He felt Pammon begin to beat faster and watched as the green forest below them and up ahead suddenly stopped, a massive line in it that was burning and rotted.

Stioks…

The land's appearance at the edge of Pammon’s vision reminded Kaen of the spell that had missed the two of them the one time they fought. Not only did the land look rotten and diseased, but it had also been burnt.

This is recent Kaen. Get your bow and be ready. Glynnis, stay near me and be sharp. Don’t engage if we find the two unless I tell you. If so, harass and always dodge. Do you understand?

I do.

Kaen felt anger rising up in Pammon as they continued to fly toward where the capital of the elves should be.

If it looks this bad this far out…

Then, no one will be left alive. You and I need to end this… we need to attack him.

Kaen felt the hatred in Pammon overtaking him and forcing him to desire the same thing as his dragon.

Wait… we need to wait.

Are you going to hide again?! Look at what he has done!

Kaen winced, almost as if Pammon had taken his tail and slapped him with it. The pain he felt from that comment flowed through their bond, and Pammon immediately knew what he had done.

I’m sorry… it’s just… when I think about him and see what Stioks has done, I cannot help but become enraged. Every part of me wants to tear him apart, and now… many of these people welcomed us and fed us.

I know, and it’s ok. You’re right. I’m not going to hide anymore, but we need to find out what we can do here and then return home and plan from there. You and I know right now is not the time for this fight. If I cannot see, I cannot fight back, which would put us in a dangerous position if Stioks found out.

Pammon didn’t reply, but Kaen could feel his acknowledgment of the wisdom behind that statement.

Just promise me when the time comes, we end this. Once and for all.

I promise.

Changes

They scouted for half a day, flying high above the land at the edge of the clouds, knowing this was the safest spot to travel while also being able to look for Stioks and Juthom.

Everyone and everything is dead… we haven’t seen a single person alive…

The pain in Pammon’s tone barely compared to the rage his friend felt at that truth. It was hard enough for Kaen to keep his own emotions in check. He was angry. Angry at himself and at what that man and his dragon had done.

We need to get home. If no one has reported the extent of this damage yet, we need to.

As they circled around, Kaen struggled to comprehend how he was going to fight someone so powerful that they could do this. The amount of magic Stioks must have boggled his mind. He had a few tricks with his bow, but when it was gone, the fight in the skies was not in his or Pammon’s favor.

Why would a man and a dragon do something like this? Isn’t this a waste of so much land and food? How much more will he make look like this?

Kaen tried to consider what he might tell Glynnis. It had been hard to describe to them how bad Stioks had been. Neither one of them had really seen anything the man had done, and the orcs they fought were just creatures bent on destruction. No matter how hard of a fight it had been, they weren’t Stioks.

Both female dragons considered those words meaningless even when others told stories around them. They had lived in a land with dragons over five hundred years old. They had seen what power and destruction was truly like. Every dragon knew that death was a possibility if you tried to go outside your area and encroach upon another's land or food.

All those times I tried to tell you about this man and his dragon, and you thought it was nothing, this is only the start. I promise you that. He will do this to the entire land you have flown over if he is not put down.

Kaen felt Glynnis moving up next to them, moving from out of the back position in their formation. Pammon turned his head and watched the yellow dragon as she pulled close and gazed at the two of them.

Forgive me. I did not realize just how demented he was. This makes what Tharnok did look like nothing, and now… now I will help you no matter what.

Pammon nodded and turned back to scan the ground and skies.

Do not take this wrong, but get back into position and keep a lookout, Glynnis. We must be cautious here. Kaen and I both know the power of a well-executed attack when one is distracted.

The yellow dragon said nothing, moved back into her part of the formation, and began keeping watch, as Pammon had asked.

Grateful for the rest and food since they had flown nonstop, they returned to Ebonmount. They had no desire to take any more risks, so they didn’t stop for the night. If they were caught on the ground, all three of them knew it would mean death for at least one of them.

When the mountains came into view, all three sighed in relief, knowing that they would need to rethink how they traveled and stopped every time they left the bowl.

Do you think Juthom and Stioks worry about us like we do about them?

I’m not sure, but I doubt either of them are fools. I would expect they rarely stop, either. Juthom most likely feeds himself before they fly and, as such, wouldn’t need to worry about food as much as we do.

Pammon was right. The war had less impact on Stioks’s kingdom. Some had tried trading only to find out the hard way, that only brought death and worse. Their spies had told them that the people were oppressed and that those still alive worked in horrible conditions, but they had food. There were massive plots of food growing and being stored all over.

Kaen had read the reports multiple times about the two factions within Luthaelia. Those some might call fanatics and followers of Stioks and those who were unable to escape.

Let’s visit Ava and Amaranth first. You both need to rest, and I need to see her. After that, we can seek out the others and discuss what needs to be done.

Kaen felt his heart skip a beat as he saw Ava standing beside Amaranth, waiting for them to land. As he climbed down from Pammon, Kaen saw her running toward him, an actual smile on her face.

Something is different about her…

Yes… I sense it, too.

“You better stop talking about me and hurry up and get over here,” Ava shouted as Kaen climbed down the last few scales before dropping to the ground.

He raced toward her as she approached him. Ava barreled into Kaen, throwing her arms around him and squeezing tight.

“I’ve missed you, my love,” she whispered into his chest.

“I’ve missed you as well,” Kaen replied, using a hand to lift her chin up and kiss her. You seem in good spirits. Did your mother cause that?”

Ava groaned and shook her head before motioning to the other side of the cave.

Kaen only saw the head motion as Pammon was kind enough to keep an eye on Ava while he moved near Amaranth.

“Pammon, if you would…”

Kaen felt his dragon’s gaze shift across the room. Over at a table, his mother-in-law was reading a book and ignoring the two of them.

“She seems happy,” Kaen said, his voice low and slow.

“Stop that. Mother is fine and giving us a little privacy before she comes over. Now stop worrying about my mother and tell me what happened while you two were gone.”

Rolling his neck and finally getting it to pop, Kaen grabbed her hand and began to walk toward Lady Hurem. “How about I tell both of you at once? That way, I don’t have to worry about repeating myself.”

Ava chuckled and nodded. “You have learned a lot in our years of marriage.”

After kissing her on the forehead, Kaen walked toward the table with his wife on his arm, thankful to be home and have a moment to relax.

The two women sat stunned at the news of Roccnari, neither saying anything as Kaen described the horror of what they found.

“Pammon was ready to go and seek out Stioks and Juthom, but thankfully, I convinced him that until I can see, now is not the time. I’m left with little choice, though. Sooner than later, we must take the fight to him.”

Lady Hurem’s expression never changed as she considered what Kaen had told them. Ava was wrestling with controlling her temper and grief.

“I wish we would poison him or burn him down or something!” Ava shouted, slamming the small wooden table, and causing all three of the cups on the table to knock over and spill. “I’m sorry,” she gasped, her mood shifting again. “I’ll go get a cloth.”

Before Kaen could say anything, Ava was on her feet and moving to the other side of the cave where the cabinets and chests were stored with things.

“Part of me wishes I had taken her with me. Putting her at risk—”

Lady Hurem held up a hand and cut Kaen off. “You seem to forget my daughter, your wife, is a very skilled mage. Why limit yourself when you travel. Nothing binds her here except your fear of her getting hurt.”

Ava was almost back at the table when her mother smiled at the two of them.

“Kaen was telling me how tired he was and how much he could use a nap. Would you two be ok if I could get a ride back to my house and let you two nap?”

Rarely did Kaen have to bite his lip to keep from smiling, but at this moment, he did, knowing full well that what she had just said was a lie, even if it was what he wanted.

“Oh, I can ask Amaranth to take your mother. She would be happy to do that for me.”

Choking for a second, Kaen turned his head and listened for an answer. “I’m sorry. Did you say Amaranth would do that for you, and she would be happy about it?”

Ava chuckled and moved to where her husband was and slid her arms around him before kissing him on the neck. “There are a few things that happened while you were gone. I’ll tell you later.”

Amaranth moved toward the cave entrance as if he had asked her himself.

I shall take Lady Hurem back to her estate and will see if I can find something for myself and the other two to eat. Do you both require anything?

Kaen knew if his eyes weren’t bandaged they would be bulging at the statement and question Amaranth had just said.

I am fine, but thank you…

He heard Amaranth's huff, and then Kaen saw through Pammon’s eyes as Ava and her mom walked over to where the green dragon was.

Closing his connection to all but Pammon, he felt his dragon reacting before he even asked a question.

It is not my place to say, but just know your wife will have something to tell you.

Why can’t you tell me? Why keep it a secret?

Something came through their bond, and Kaen couldn’t understand the feeling. It was like remorse and frustration all mixed together.

Does your mate ever require you to not tell another person something because it is not your place to tell it?

You know she does…

And now you know why I cannot tell you anymore.

Grunting, Kaen shook his head and moved toward the part of the cavern with a bed.

Sitting on the edge, he began removing his boots and sliding out of his dragon armor. As his arm came up, his improved sense of smell told him precisely what he didn’t want to know.

“Dear spirits, I smell…” he muttered to himself.

Getting up from the bed, he moved toward the cave wall and began to walk with his hand on the edge of it.

Do you want my help?

No… I need to do this on my own.

If you were about to trip over something, should I say so?

His foot hovering in mid-air, Kaen cocked his head and then lowered it back down, slowly shuffling with both his feet. After about a yard and not hitting anything, he turned to where he knew Pammon was. A low thrum echoed through the cave, and Kaen lifted his hand, giving Pammon the middle finger.

Frustrated, he stormed along the wall until, about twelve steps in, his foot caught a few bags stacked along the back of the wall and tripped, falling onto the cold hard floor.

I tried to warn you…

Coughing and trying to keep from laughing, Kaen rolled over to his knees and stood up.

You did… is there anything else in my way until I reach the water spigot?

No… you are fine now, but just stay along the wall. I don’t want you tripping over my tail.

Ignoring his dragon, Kaen shuffled until he found the wall again and, after a bit, made it to the water. He heard Ava’s soft footsteps coming, and he smiled.

“He said you weren’t using his eyes,” she complained.

“I’m not. I could hear you coming even if you tried to be sneaky.”

“That’s no fun… I wanted to scare you!”

“And watch me fall over again?”

She laughed and came up, wrapping her arms around his bare chest. As she pulled close, she let out an ewwwww before taking a step back. “You smell like the backside of a horse… would you like some help washing?”

“I would be honored if you helped me, my love.”

Kaen climbed into the small tub as Ava turned on the water, finding the right temperature for him.

“I didn’t know I’d have to take of you so soon,” Ava joked.

Kaen laughed, nodding as he let his wife take care of him, forgetting for a moment the conversation they had just minutes ago.

Being Behind in Preparation

Kaen could feel Aldric’s and Herb’s gaze even though Pammon was lounging on the floor of the cave behind both men.

Each had sat there mulling over the news of what had happened to the elves and tried to consider what it might mean for Ebonmount and others.

“This spell that he cast at you when you fought and missed… was it a wand?” Aldric asked.

Shrugging, Kaen picked up his cup and sipped the watered-down wine. “I honestly don’t know. Hess had mentioned it, and after hearing how many Fiola had used in the defense of her cave, I had wondered, but is it even possible for him to have that many? How long would one take?”

Herb grunted as Aldric looked at the short man beside him. A scowl was set on Herb’s usually cheerful face, and he was rubbing his head again, more hair missing over the last few years from this habit he had acquired since becoming the head of the adventurer's hall.

“We have to remember that what we know about Stioks is limited, but he is the strongest mage in all the lands that I am aware of. Before he became who we all know him as now, his family was powerful and a long line of adventurers. Some said he was kin to the king. When the guild banished him officially due to some tests he had conducted on his own, there might have only been one close to his power, and now… Selmah is never going to be able to help beyond teaching.”

Bending down, Herb grabbed his small backpack near him and dug out a piece of paper and a pen. He started sketching a few things as Aldric leaned over to watch.

“Now what I’m drawing is…” Herb’s voice trailed off as he looked up at Kaen and realized his mistake. “Ahh… uh… can Pammon come look at what I’m doing so you can see? The visualization helps a lot.”

Kaen chuckled and nodded, and a sigh came from across the cave as Pammon left the spot he had between Amaranth and Glynnis, moving to peer down at the paper Herb was drawing on.

“Sorry… I got excited and forgot,” Herb stated as he bent over the paper and made a few more marks. “Now look here. This wand is set on a pedestal like the one we have in the adventurers guild with the crystal sphere. I’ve marked these four spots around it where mages would stand and pour magic into the item. With a wand, it’s different than most other items, and I know Hess told you a little bit about the process, but the limiting part of a wand is here.”

Herb put his finger next to a small diamond shape he drew inside what had to be a wand.

“The crystal that is used for the wand is critical. Only certain types work, and most are small because finding them and forging them takes time and money… when the wand is used up, the crystal shatters, turning the piece of wood or metal into scrap.

“I know the wand Fiola must have used, and when I say it was considered one of the priciest wands the elves had, know that it was. Its gem inside was larger and purer than most found in centuries. The spell that was used in it had been infused by a mage with power on par with what Stioks was most likely at within the last few years.”

Moving his finger to the next set of drawings, Herb grunted and added a few arrows pointing from his four circles that represented the mages.

“Each of these mages has to maintain a steady stream of power infusing to the crystal at all times. If someone falters or stops, then that wand is finished. What usually happens is most wands are one-shot wonders. With four mages, you can comfortably keep this going for a while, each of them funneling power inside the gem indefinitely. You can rotate mages as long as there are always at least two, adding a steady stream of power.”

Aldric rubbed his eyes as he squeezed them shut. He had seen the schematics and knew how this worked, but hearing someone explain it again reminded him why he left that business to someone else within the kingdom.

Kaen was enthralled, considering what this might mean for what he could make or what he might face.

“Here though is the problem…” Herb said with a sigh as he flipped the paper over and began drawing again.

Kaen watched through Pammon’s eyes and felt the worry that came from his dragon when both of them realized what Herb was drawing.

Stioks is using a dragon to empower wands…

Aldric leaned forward, his face showing the concern he now had as he, too, knew what Herb was drawing.

As the man sat back and tapped the pen against the paper, he frowned even more before sighing. “I’m afraid Stioks must be using one or both of his dragons to help with this process. As you know,” Herb pointed at Pammon, looking down at them, “a dragon has a far greater supply of mana and power well beyond what you and I do. They can infuse that wand at a greater rate and with two dragons and every caster Stioks can summon, including himself…”

Herb’s voice trailed off, and only the sound of the wind across the cave's opening could be heard.

“How strong could that make a wand?” Kaen asked. He licked his lips, concerned with the answer he might have seen firsthand.

“I’m talking about things that haven’t happened in a thousand years,” replied Herb. “Dragons have been unwilling for lots of reasons to do this. Imagine someone with an endless supply of dragons and a crystal of a decent size. The power that wand could have could…”

“Destroy a kingdom,” Aldric stated, finishing off where Herb had stopped. “It would appear we might need to start working on some of our own.”

Herb shrugged. “We have a few in the vault. Each only has a single use and is nowhere near the power of what Stioks could possibly possess. To create anything like what he might have would require…” Herb’s eyes drifted over to Pammon and the two female dragons who were feigning to be asleep.

I’m not sure how I feel about being used to make a weapon like that… if it gets into the wrong hands…

Kaen nodded, understanding Pammon’s reservations about this task.

“I can’t say they would be on board, and I’m sure you can imagine why, but how long would it take to make something as powerful as what I described if you had a dragon's help?”

Herb leaned over and began writing some numbers on the paper. He glanced up at Pammon and then turned toward Kaen.

“This is a personal question, but if I may, how much mana do you and Pammon both have?”

Kaen smirked, and a groan came from Pammon.

“Is this a bad request?” Herb asked, looking back and forth between Pammon and Kaen.

Shaking his head from side to side, Kaen blew a raspberry.

Are you ok if I look?

Fine… I will not share all mine, but you may tell them I have over three thousand. Do not make this a habit again. We both know what that will lead to.

I haven’t looked in years, and you know how hard it was for me not to look when I hit forty on archery the other day.

Yes, I know. Now, answer his question so we may understand his thoughts.

[ Simple Status Check ]

Kaen Marshell - Adult

Age - 23

HP - 2765/2765 (28%)

MP - 589/589 (28%)

STR - 51 (28%)

CON - 54 (28%)

DEX - 52 (28%)

INT - 46 (28%)

WIS - 40 (28%)

“Sorry,” Kaen said after finally responding. “We don’t share this, and I haven’t looked in years for different reasons, but Pammon has over three thousand, and I am over five hundred.”

Aldric and Herb’s eyes went wide, and each cleared their throats as they glanced at the other momentarily.

“Th… three thousand?” Herb asked, his voice cracking.

“That is what he said.”

“And you’re above five hundred?”

Kaen chuckled, hearing the doubt in Herb’s voice. “Yes. I mean, I’m almost six hundred bu–”

“Holy dwarf balls,” Herb cursed, sputtering as he stared at Kaen. “I… I can’t remember the last time I heard of someone being above five hundred and you say that so casually.”

Motioning with his finger at Pammon, Kaen grinned. “Blame him. Most of that is from him.”

Both men nodded slowly, and Herb, after closing his eyes and shaking his head for a few seconds, bent over and began writing numbers.

Kaen watched the formula the man was working on, and he could almost understand it. Although many things didn’t make sense, he could start to see where Herb was going with it.

That number there is the required mana for each rank, isn’t it?

Kaen smiled and nodded.

Yes, and the other one, I believe, is the potency, and I think there are charges in the column he is writing.

[ 1 Intelligence gained ]

What was that?

Kaen began to cough and covered his mouth as he did.

Both men looked at him, and Kaen waved their concern for his sudden fit.

I… I just gained a point of intelligence…

Well, I expect you to not act like an eggling after knowing you have gotten smarter…

A thrum came from Pammon, and both men turned to glance at Pammon and then back at Kaen.

“What are we missing?” Aldric asked, a slight smirk on his face. “Obviously, it’s something.”

“I’m not sure you really want to know,” Kaen declared. “If Hess was here, I’d gladly tell him, but you two might think I’m being a braggart.”

He couldn’t see how Aldric scrunched his eyebrows and stared at him. The king scratched his stubble on his chin and then leaned back in his chair.

“You gained a stat increase, didn’t you?”

Kaen snorted and nodded. “I did… how did you figure it out?”

“I’d like to say I’m smart and understand what Herb is writing, but if you didn’t and just figured it out… combined with what I know about you and Hess and the competition he joked about over the years between you two, it just makes sense.”

Herb mumbled under his breath about damn dragon riders before continuing his work.

“I guess we won’t make Herb use six hundred since that would mess up all of his work so far,” joked Aldric as he put his hands behind his head and relaxed, waiting for Herb’s final results.

“Maybe six months… a wand with one charge could be done in three and two charges in six months… three charges would require a year.”

Kaen glanced at the numbers that Herb had circled and the final column he put side by side.

“So based on that possibility and the fact that Stioks has been preparing for years…” Kaen said, trailing off as he did some math in his head.

“We’re in a lot of trouble,” Herb replied. “If he managed to get ahold of three gems worthy of the spell you mentioned, he could have three wands with three charges each. That also means–”

“There could be even more that have been produced before he killed my father,” Kaen declared as he interrupted Herb. Scratching his beard, Kaen felt a weight pressing down on him but wouldn’t give in. No matter the odds, they had to win. He had to win. “So what do you two want to do to help against this knowledge?”

Both men looked at Kaen and didn’t answer, each trying not to wince at the memory of Hoste.

“What can we do?” Herb asked. “We are behind, and there is no way we could compete with that kind of power or speed unless all three of your dragons decided to help.”

Pammon growled, and Herb winced slightly.

“I can ask, but it is a decision they must make on their own. As I’ve said before, I won’t force them to do anything. This doesn’t mean you can’t start working on something else. There are mages here; even a wand or two might mean the difference when whatever we fight takes place. Someday, we all know that we must march on Luthaelia, and when we do, you will need whatever help you can get.”

Aldric stood up suddenly, catching Herb off guard.

“He’s right. I’ll head home right now and get my royal court working on something. Expect an answer from me within a few days.”

Kaen nodded and stood up, holding out his hand and giving a goodbye shake to Aldric.

Herb grabbed his paper and pen and stuffed them into his backpack. “I’ll work up some ideas as well… perhaps in a few days, I might have an answer,” he said, his voice not conveying the same sense of surety as Aldric’s had.

“Good. Now Pammon and I will take you both back. I need to get a few things done as well.”