Prologue

“Prepare for next week. I expect to return quickly, but I do not want any issues. Is that understood?”

Both men nodded and bowed their heads low before sliding backward, keeping their faces from looking up.

“Now go.”

Each turned, eyes still aimed at their feet, and scurried out of the room, ignoring the gaze they felt from both dragons.

Stioks turned his gaze toward his new dragon. Taerar was only a few months old, yet he was growing quickly.

You should have let me eat one of them. I am hungry.

“You are always hungry but fear not. You can go and find yourself some food in a few minutes. I must ensure you both understand what will happen next week.”

Rising from his throne, Stioks moved to where Taerar and Juthom lay on the stone floor of the throne room next to each other.

He couldn’t help but smile as he saw how quickly his dragon was putting on size. Even Juthom was surprised at how fast it was happening. Compared to the massive black dragon, Taerar was tiny, barely anything to be concerned with, but if his growth continued at the pace so far, it would only be a few years before his dragon would be worthy of carrying him. For now, he was too precious and had to be protected.

I don’t want to go on this trip. It is too far, and I don’t like flying for no reason.

A thrum came from Juthom, who knew what was about to take place.

Stioks moved until he was next to Taerar and leaned over, rubbing the brown dragon's scales and listening to it trill for a moment.

Then he squealed as Stioks poured magic into his touch, and a hissing sound came from where he had placed his hand.

“Taerar, never forget that you and I are bound, and you must obey me. If you do not, you will die to those who hate us. A dragon rider has sworn to wipe out the life you enjoy, and the small amount of pain you experienced once again is only a taste of what the two of them can do.”

Pointing his hand at Juthom, Stioks never took his eyes off his dragon, which had taken a step back, lowering its head.

“Look at your sire and see what they did to him in a sneak attack. Those scales that have never formed back correctly testify to their devious side. That is why you must get stronger. You need to trust me, or you will never become the king you are meant to be.”

The small brown dragon’s head turned and gazed once more at the area Stioks had pointed out countless times. Taerar’s mind struggled to believe such a cruel person could be out there, trying to end his life and others. Yet the proof of the damage his sire had suffered stood as a testament to that fact. Dragon Rider Kaen and his terrible dragon Pammon wanted him and everyone else in this kingdom dead.

I will grow strong. I will not whine again.

Smiling, Stioks ignored the sound his skin made as it cracked and blood seeped from the wounds on his face. He stepped forward and held out his hand, waiting for Taerar to approach and lower his snout toward him.

“Good, I never want to hurt you, but I need you to understand pain. One day, we will save the land of those two and the others who follow them. Then you can rest every night without fear.”

Trills came from Taerar as Stioks’s scratched the scales along his snout.

The cold wind had lost its touch, and Stioks smiled as he glanced backward, seeing Taerar tearing into a pair of cows and devouring them.

One day, that lie may be your undoing. If he finds out–

Who is going to tell him? You and I both know you won’t and unless we decide to have ale and bread while lounging together with that bastard and his dragon, I do not expect Taerar ever to learn the truth until it doesn’t matter.

Juthom said nothing, flying higher into the night sky as they left his child below.

Are you sure this plan of yours is the right path? It may be too soon. There is still a lot of time to keep him hidden.

Anger flared within Stioks at the questioning of his plan, and he fought not to unleash it upon Juthom. Lately, the dragon had been testing him more. Since the day he bound with Taerar, it had been as if something was different, and it bothered him.

Those elves must be punished; I can no longer allow it to go unanswered. Grakgor Stormfist has told me how badly his orcs and goblins have suffered. He wants to blame me, yet it is still his undoing. I told him to wait, and I needed to cause a distraction to help remove the suffering his kind is under. A time is coming when I will need him and his troops again. That means I cannot wait any longer.

Juthom snorted, keeping his head down as he did. Only once had he accidentally done it and gotten something on Stioks, and it had almost brought a divide between them that would have ended in at least one of them dying.

You know I am bound to you and will not go against you. My only concern is that when the time comes, we are genuinely prepared for the fight that is going to take place.

The wind swept the rare sound of laughter that came from Stioks. His face bled as the wind swept those drops behind him.

Those two have no idea how much stronger we are now. When that next time comes, I plan on ending them both once and for good.

Looking at the cup in his hand, Kaen couldn’t remember having crushed it.

“It’s ok, it’s not your–”

“It is!” exclaimed Kaen, cutting off Ava, who was trying to console him. He stood up and wheeled around, seeing her lean back at his sudden movement.

“Those people died because of me. They died because of my decisions! My inability to act and belief that perhaps we could live in peace!”

Tossing the broken cup across their room, he ignored the sound it made as the metal bounced off the stone walls and fell to the floor.

“How many have died because I believed Stioks felt he was beaten?”

Frowning, Ava shook her head at his question. “Thousands have died from the orc invasions these last few years, and you want to blame the man who gave us time to hold them off?!” Her voice got louder as she moved to stand in his face. “You have been working night and day for the last three years, fighting a battle that we wondered if it would ever stop! It has… for the first time in years, we have gone almost a month without a battle at those walls, and now we had one small moment of rest, yet you cannot help but still blame yourself!”

Kaen opened his mouth, preparing to reply, when Ava shook her head and held her hand up.

“You will wait till I am done.” Her voice was deep, and Kaen could see the fire in her eyes. He loved that passion about her but knew the following words she would speak would not be easy to hear.

“Aldric, Hess, and Herb all agreed with your decision three years ago. For once, we were able to focus on living. The people of Ebonmount could live without fear of a dragon swooping down in the middle of the night and burning them alive.

“Yes, that was short-lived, as the orcs came months later, but even then, as the days and weeks passed and Stioks never came to help the horde that rushed against our defenses, people saw hope- a chance to win and live again.

“Even with our food problems, King Bosgreth is assisting us by teaching us how to grow food inside the cave with light orbs. Our people will eat while the orcs and goblins have to eat their own dead. Over a hundred thousand of their kind have died by our hands or by starvation.”

Ava poked her finger against his chest, ignoring that he didn’t move as she pressed against him. “You, Pammon, Amaranth and Glynnis drove back the horde. Every mile cost them countless more lives. The forests and fields are littered with their corpses. They are now pushed back to the caves, and everyone expects you to do what you must. Even if more must die, everyone who has signed up for this next task believes their life is worth the cost. So do not dishonor those who have already died and those who still might.”

Closing his eyes, Kaen slowly bobbed his head and took a deep breath, feeling her finger pressed against him. As he let it out and opened his eyelids, Ave stood there, her anger gone and smiling gently.

“I’m sorry, my love, I was just –”

“Being an eggling. I know. Hess and Sulenda both warned me you had moments like this.”

Laughing, he reached out and put his hand on top of hers.

She rolled her eyes as she let his hand be under hers and sighed

“Now, go outside and deal with your dragon. He is in a fit, and I cannot handle listening to both of you constantly complain to me.”

Snorting, Kaen leaned over and kissed her on the head before turning toward the exit.

A cough came after a few steps, and he glanced back, looking to see what was wrong.

“You’re forgetting something,” she said as she pointed at the cup he had destroyed.

“Forgive me, my love,” he replied, holding back the grin he almost let slip. Then he darted over, picking up the scrap of metal he had just created.

Plans and Students

Kaen read the reports Herb had given him as he waited in the centuries old stone courtyard of the guild hall. The stones didn’t show age, having been crafted during a time with magic long since forgotten.

Grumbling, he scanned the lines, seeing the information and data that worried him.

“Is that number really possible?”

Herb nodded slowly, pointing at a map on the small table. “If you follow this line and based on the data Tioanoe sent, I am afraid it is true. Her people are being driven back, and no end is in sight. Unless you and Pammon, or Amaranth and Glynnis help, I do not see how they can win.”

You seem to forget every day is a battle. There will always be a problem that arises, and as the commander, you must make a decision.

Turning, Kaen stared into those gold eyes of his dragon and nodded.

What do you recommend we do? You know what our plan is for tomorrow. Can we really spare Glynnis?

The real question is, can we afford not to let her help Tioanoe’s people? If they fall and that army continues to grow, then we will find another enemy coming at us. Can we defend from three or four sides at once?

Scratching his trimmed beard, Kaen grunted in agreement. Pammon was right; he had been a different dragon since they returned from their trip three years ago.

Tell me, who should go with her? I would prefer not to send Phillip or Frederick since both are essential parts of this next assault.

I would send one of Herb’s people with her. Three would actually be best. Have Herb send two mages and a ranger. Those three can create a lot of havoc and damage from the sky while limiting their risk.

Glancing at the map again, Kaen nodded, knowing Pammon was right.

“Pammon says you need to have two mages and one ranger go with Glynnis and help them. He will talk with her, but I expect she will gladly assist as always when Pammon asks.”

Pulling out a notebook, Herb nodded in agreement as he wrote down a few things.

“I know the ones I recommend. Let me see where they are and summon them. Would tomorrow work for leaving?”

Nodding, Kaen glanced at the preparations for tomorrow.

“There is no time to waste. Every day is a chance for someone to catch wind of this plan and prevent its success.”

Herb grunted and studied Kaen for a second. “You’re carrying to much of this weight. The spies we uncovered are not all of them and the chaos they caused the last few years has been hard on all of us. Don’t shoulder this burden alone.”

Kaen snorted and shook his head slowly as he scanned the documents one last time.

“You and Hess talk too much… both of you say the same thing. Still I can’t help but feel I should have realized some of those reports were off. We didn’t have time or the luxury to make mistakes like that.”

“Yet who knew we would find so many mines with those damn glowing walls?” Herb asked. “Stioks mined the metal we were searching for from under our noses.”

Bobbing his head, Kaen looked at the door. “We’ll worry about that later. Thank you for all your help.”

Herb remained silent as the last dragon rider in the land left. Everyone knew the burden he carried seemed impossible for one so young.

You know I do not like being a pack mule. What about my egg?

Pammon snorted and shook his head at Glynnis, curled around a silver egg.

Fifty yards away, Amaranth was doing the same thing with a bronze egg, watching the two of them.

Kaen has people here who will guard the eggs and–

A small roar cut him off as Glynnis raised her head and shook it.

They cannot protect it for that long! Do you–

Pammon growled. Rarely had he growled like this, but in these moments, it was the only way to remind either of them who he was.

Lowering her snout some, Glynnis stopped talking and waited for what she knew would come next.

Instead, Pammon took a deep breath, moved toward her, and put his snout against her neck. She trilled from his gentle touch and gently returned the gesture to the bottom of his.

Ava will personally be here while we are gone. Do not doubt that she will make sure no one bothers what is precious to me.

Amaranth snorted and shifted as she watched the two of them in their embrace.

Will you treat me the same as you have her? Last time, I was not given that kindness when I spoke out like that.

Pammon thrummed, moved to where Amaranth waited, and gave her the same gentle touch.

Glynnis’s silver eyes glared at her competition for Pammon’s attention.

His massive frame and size dwarfed the green dragon, even though she had grown quite a bit in the last few years.

When do we leave? Glynnis asked, smiling as Pammon moved back and turned to face her.

Tomorrow.

Moving back toward the cave entrance that Aldric had his workers create for the two of them and their eggs, Pammon snorted before he leaped into the air off the cliff.

Promise me that neither of you will fight about this. Each of you knows that I feel for both of you. Do not drag me into these games you both play. There is no time for that right now.

Turning his neck so he could look at both of them at once, he gave a toothy grin.

And we all know those eggs are at least a month or two away from hatching.

Both females flinched at his words, and neither spoke as they looked at each other, wondering if one of them had told him that information.

Rest and eat. Tomorrow will be the start of a long ordeal for all of us.

Kaen could feel Pammon's frustration oozing off him long before he could see him coming to the courtyard where he was training students.

“You two ready?” he asked, watching Phillip and Frederick prepare to attack him.

They nodded and said nothing, moving to surround him from both sides, shields, and weapons ready.

The two boys before him looked nothing like a sixteen-year-old should. Each was chiseled muscle from years spent doing nothing but preparing for battle. The time on the walls had transformed them from boys who learned about combat to young men who didn’t flinch when it came. Each already carried a bronze token around their neck.

A year ago, they had taken the test during a lull, their accomplishments on the wall breaking a tradition and rule held fast for as long as most could remember.

As they came at him, neither saying a word, attacking in unison, Kaen couldn’t help but smile.

Students and teachers stood by, watching the exchange of swords between the three of them. The pace was fast, as both boys didn’t just use their weapons; instead, everything about them was a weapon. They used their shield, tossed out kicks and charges, and even threw dirt from the ground when they got up from being knocked down, always pressing at Kaen.

Their speed was exceptional, and their fighting skills were even more so. Both had over a twenty in their sword and shield skills. Each was dangerous in their own way, but combined, the two had taken down many of their teachers.

Oohs and awes, along with cheers and shouts, rang out almost as frequently as the sound of wood on wood did.

Kaen was always moving, always dodging and parrying blows and sending out the occasional attack to watch them respond accordingly. He was well beyond their level, and his speed allowed him to see everything coming, but it was no fun if they had no chance.

“Remember to take it easy on them,” Hess, his dad, and their trainer had told him before this started.

Kaen could see the man smiling at this exchange from the corner of his eye.

He gave the boys an opening, leaving himself vulnerable for just a second, each closed in like hounds on a rabbit. Frederick came in high, requiring Kaen to focus on the sword, making a straight line for his head, while Phillip came in low, the sword angling for his leg that he had left unprotected.

The crowd cheered when Phillip’s sword barely touched Kaen’s thigh before he pulled it to safety.

Neither boy smiled. Only a tiny turn of their lips displayed any emotion at all.

Both knew he had given them a chance, and they wouldn’t squander it.

Their attacks came even faster now, pushing him and slamming into him, and as they got close, Kaen saw when they unleashed their abilities.

Phillip's shield bashed, the force of it requiring Kaen to use his shield or suffer a broken weapon. As Kaen maneuvered to block the attack, Frederick activated his flurry skill, and his sword became a blur, five thrusts coming in rapid succession.

The actual strikes would be impossible to see for everyone but Kaen and a few rare people. His sword moved with the speed that he had, deflecting each of them except the last.

As Frederick drove in, the final strike from his skill coming, Kaen dropped his sword, grabbing for the boy’s hand to take it from him.

From the corner of his eye, Kaen saw Patrick’s skill activate.

The same flurry skill sent those attacks at his hip and leg.

Grinning, Kaen stopped Frederick's attack, blocked two of Phillip's three strikes, and let the other three hit.

“Winner!”

The crowd of students and others cheered loudly as both boys immediately jumped back, creating space from their mentor. Each now smiled at the knowledge that they had managed a rare feat.

“Well done, boys!” Headmaster Finn proclaimed as he moved toward the three of them, clapping his hands. “Well done indeed!”

Giving a slight bow toward both boys, Kaen winked, and each of them dropped their sword and shield and gave him a salute before coming to shake the hand Kaen was holding out.

“Nice work, you two! Awe-inspiring use of the skills.”

“You let us win,” Frederick said after shaking Kaen’s hand. “We both know you could have stopped that.”

Laughing, Kaen motioned to the crowd, which was still clapping, and their headmaster, who was almost upon them.

“That might be true,” Kaen replied, bringing both boys under an arm, “but I’m not most people. Your combination would work against most people, so take pride in that.”

Each nodded and grinned.

When Finn got close, he shook both boy's hands and couldn’t stop smiling at them.

“You two have grown so much! I cannot believe the men you two are becoming!”

Looking at Kaen, he gave a slight bow. “Thank you again for allowing me to participate in this!”

Clasping the man on the shoulder, Kaen squeezed and shook his head. “You are due the honor of all this. It has been your gentle hand each day keeping these boys and girls on the path.”

The older man seemed to blush as his cheeks turned red from Kaen's praise.

“Well, ignoring all this, we must let these two celebrate with their fellow students before you whisk them off tonight.”

“Promise me they will return,” Finn whispered as he and Kaen stood side by side, watching the cluster of others congratulate the pair.

Not dropping the smile he wore, Kaen grunted. “That is a promise I can never make, and you know it. How many did we lose on the walls?”

Sighing, Finn bobbed his head slowly. “Too many… will this end it?”

Kaen stood there, unsure how to answer, as he felt Pammon’s eyes upon him.

“No… it is one of many steps required to accomplish that task. For now it may give us a reprieve. Everyone needs a break.”

Lying in bed, Kaen stroked his wife’s cheek as she rested her head against him.

“When I’m old and fat, are you still going to love me?” she asked, gently running her nails across his skin.

“Maybe… I mean, you’re already– Ow!”

He winced slightly as she pinched his nipple between her fingernails and lifted her head up to look at him as he squinted from the slight pain.

“Kaen Marshell, I would be cautious with the next words that come out of your mouth, or I might be the first to cut something off you.”

A cough came, and the grip she had only hurt more as he nodded.

“As I was going to say,” Kaen replied, clearing his throat before continuing, “I will always love you, and you will never be old or fat.”

Ava rolled her eyes and grunted, letting go of the piece of flesh she was holding on to, and laid her head back onto him. “At least you still have a little bit of sense left in you. Remember to use that in the coming days.”

Nodding, Kaen pulled her closer and held her.

The next few days were going to be no fun at all.

Secret Plans

Everyone was assembled in the courtyard of the guild hall before the sun was up.

Kaen glanced at the group of six and felt himself struggling to say something that would inspire them, knowing what they were about to attempt.

“I won’t make a speech. You’re here because I trust you with my life. We have a dangerous job that requires us to seal a cave down south. If successful we will repeat the process on all the caves. You six know what we are about to do. Do you have any questions?”

Each of them shook his or her head, no expression showing on any of their faces, as the light orbs cast shadows behind them.

“Good. Let’s finish getting loaded and get out of here before dawn.”

It had taken them only twenty minutes to load all the explosive casks onto both dragons' backs. Without Glynnis coming, Pammon had a few extra barrels on him, but the weight was not an issue with his size now.

These three are nervous.

Nodding, Kaen helped the last one get strapped in, took his seat behind Pammon, and hooked himself in.

That is why they are with me. Frederick and Phillip are experienced riders, and someone has promised me not to complain about three people riding on her this entire trip.

Hearing Kaen talking about her, Amaranth turned and looked at him.

I made that promise to Pammon, not to you.

And yet, would you prefer me to have him ask you or have me tell you to do this?

Frederick and Phillip didn’t react when the green dragon shook her head and pulled it up quickly. Both were clipped in and the mage, Audrey, was cinched between them.

I will take that as a no.

Pammon thrummed slightly yet said nothing, knowing the threat of what Kaen was implying.

“Everyone ready?”

Phillip held up his thumb, and Kaen felt a double tap on his shoulder from behind Gilmun.

“I still can’t believe I’m on a damn dragon. Holy ogre balls… Elnidith failed to describe how high up I am.”

Kaen couldn’t help but chuckle and nod as he patted Pammon’s neck. “She did tell me you had earned this, so enjoy.”

A grunt came after that comment, and he wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or a bad thing Gilmun felt he had earned.

As the sun rose above the mountains, they were as high up as possible in the sky, making their way toward the caves inside the mountain to the south.

You realize that once you go inside, I cannot help.

We have gone over this dozens of times. You need to be outside with the casks until it is time to bring them in. If something happens, you need to wait. I have a team I can trust, just like I trust you.

The bond didn’t hide the frustration coming from Pammon, but he didn’t bother to complain again.

Glancing down at the land beneath them, he felt sad. In many places, the woods were burnt to ash. Entire forests were gone, having been stripped clean or burnt by the fires of the orcs, goblins, or Pammon when they came out to attack.

One day soon, you can help rebuild it.

Kaen nodded, seeing the burnt area Minoosh was at off to the east.

Every town located on this side of the bowl was gone. Sections of the wall were constantly being rebuilt, and with this small break between the attacks, Kaen could see only a few small parties of orcs in the land beneath them.

Over there is a group we will need to remember. I count at least a hundred.

Using Pammon’s vision, Kaen saw the group of orcs and goblins to the east, moving along a burnt section of trees, staying close to the edge as they traveled.

Where are they headed?

I cannot tell, and it has been a week since I have been out here. They might be building in the caves along the east and west, but the last time we scouted the outside walls of the mountains, no new openings were found.

That lake does provide a barrier.

And orcs never take a bath.

Chuckling as Pammon made a joke, he focused on the line of mountains they were flying toward.

Tell me I’m not being an eggling.

Pammon remained silent, and Kaen could feel the thoughts running through his friend.

We cannot keep fighting on every side. The rumor of Stioks attacking the wood elves a few weeks ago requires us to act. A year ago we helped hold back the orcs that attacked there. How much of the forest and how many elves died because we were too slow to respond? The spies the King and Herb use are taking a week or more for new intel. Stioks is able to make moves and we are late in responding. We must act now, using that same delay in news and updates for Stioks to hear about it, succeeding while we can.

Scratching the scale on his friend's neck, Kaen nodded.

He felt Gilmun shifting behind him as the dwarf leaned his head against Kaen’s back.

Looking over his shoulder, he saw the three riders with him, each leaning forward and hiding underneath the flying cloaks they had developed.

At least they aren’t freezing too much.

We shall see when we land just how frozen they are.

The sun was on the far side of the mountains, less than two hours before it would disappear behind their massive stone wall.

“We need to move!” Kaen ordered as the seven of them ran toward the cave where the goblins and orcs that had been guarding the entrance lay dead.

Stay up high. Let me know if any large packs come toward us.

Pammon said nothing in reply, but Kaen could tell he was still frustrated at being unable to help with this next part.

The truth was that Pammon had grown so large that it required some adjustments to the new house they had built and to the cave entrance for both of the female dragons.

He was certain that his dragon had grown larger than Tharnok, but it was hard to say without seeing them side by side.

Not wanting to risk upsetting his friend again, Kaen ignored his desire to know how exactly strong Pammon had become. The few times he had asked last year for an update, even when explaining the reason why, Pammon would state being nothing more than numbers and not what he accomplished.

Simple Status Check with Skills

Kaen Marshell - Adult

Age - 23

HP - 2765/2765 (28%)

MP - 589/589 (28%)

STR - 49 (28%)

CON - 54 (28%)

DEX - 52 (28%)

INT - 46 (28%)

WIS - 40 (28%)

Skills:

Archery - 39

Brawling - 32

Daggers - 31

1H Sword - 31

1H Mace - 30

1H Axe - 30

1H Shield - 32

Spear -30

2H Sword - 28

2H Polearm - 24

Staff - 22

Magic - 27

Mining - 21

Charm Resist - 30

Story Telling - 45

Haggle - 26

Dancing - 29

Dragon Riding – 28

Sneak - 21

Tracking - 22

Cooking - 27

Poison Resist - 19

As they ran toward the cave entrance, Kaen kept his bow out, an arrow ready in case they spotted another enemy.

“Stay low!” Kaen called out as the others moved to catch up with him. Four adults and two teens.

Herb had complained about him bringing Phillip and Frederick with him, but Kaen trusted them with his life. Over the last few years, they had spent a lot of time training and working together. Their commitment to him and their chosen path had actually made them more famous than he was in some ways.

So many parents had stopped telling their children they could be like Kaen the Dragon Rider but instead could be like these two boys. Children and adults would come up to them everywhere they went and shake their hands.

A memory of a horrible fight on the walls flashed through his mind.

Both boys had held back a break between an area Elnidith was trying to fill with anything she could as the orc horde pressed against it.

Phillip and Frederick had both brought their roaming band of students to set up a half circle and led the defense that held back the horde. For over two hours, they stopped over two thousand orcs, bodies piling up so high that the orcs had to drag the corpses of their allies away to try and press their attack.

Finally, Glynnis was able to come and dispatch the group outside the wall, giving them a chance to run carts with stone into the middle of the opening.

From that moment, both boys had earned a greater reputation than anyone else. That moment had pressured the adventurer guild to allow them to test early.

“Clear!”

Kaen nodded and activated his night vision, seeing farther into the cave than the others could.

“You six, follow after a minute. I’ll go ahead and remember,” Kaen glanced back at the four under Phillip’s command. “Stay quiet. Noise is our weakest link here.”

Everyone nodded, and Kaen took off down the cave, hugging the wall and watching where he stepped.

His ability to see had improved over the last few years as he spent more time practicing the spell. Unlike the previous time he had ventured into a cave and risked not being able to see more than twenty yards, seeing down all but the longest sections of the cave tunnels was easy.

A few goblins had been hidden in cracks along the walls, and his arrows found each one in the eye.

Grumbling to himself as he continued in silence, he was still stuck at a thirty-nine. It hadn’t mattered what he had done. Nothing seemed to raise it.

Hess’s admission that it took almost a lifetime of practice and training to get above a forty had barely eased the pain of what he felt.

Focus. I can feel your mind wandering.

You’re right. Just wondering why I can–

I know, but stop that. It doesn’t matter. What matters is being safe so that we can get home to our mates.

It took a lot of effort not to laugh, but every time Pammon called Ava his mate, something inside him was tickled by it.

I’ll make sure to mention that to my mate the next time I see her.

Pammon’s laughter felt better than he could remember as it came through their bond. The last few years had been hard on him as well.

Coming around a bend, Kaen saw the area he was expecting. There was a massive black liquid wall shimmering in the cave's darkness. This time, instead of a few goblins being the protectors, two-tier two ogres stood a few years from the entrance, looking bored and half asleep on their feet.

Moving behind the bend, he drew a second arrow and prepared for his attack.

[ Twin Shot ]

Kaen felt his lifestone burning as his energy flowed into the tip of his arrows. When they were glowing red, he moved from around the corner, unleashing both shots, which sunk into each of their eye sockets. An explosion took place, and both of their heads were gone in just a moment.

Without waiting, he moved toward the beasts the second he had let go of the arrows and already drawn another.

Two shrieks sounded out as they fell, and Kaen saw movement on the sides. Goblins began to move toward the portal, and his first arrow dropped the one on the right.

Just a yard before it reached the black surface, the second arrow impaled the last goblin in the throat. It stumbled forward, hands clutching at it, and moved through the black shimmering surface.

Dwarf balls… this is going to suck.

Without hesitation, Kaen put the bow over his shoulder and drew his sword, his shield already on his left arm, running to the portal.

Coming through it, he found the goblin dead on the ground, and it appeared no other goblins or orcs were nearby.

Picking up the corpse, he stepped back through the shimmering side. Looking out over the open area where the sounds of an army echoed off the stone walls. The glow of the fires created an eerie glow inside the massive cavern.

What?!

Nothing. I was worried for a moment, but everything is fine. Prepare to land. I’ll send the others back to you quickly so we can start bringing the casks.

A grumble came through their bond, yet he could feel Pammon starting to descend.

The light of their light stones had told Kaen when they were about to be near him, and he waited by the wall, just in case something came through.

“Everything went as planned?”

Nodding at Phillip, Kaen motioned at the four corpses he had stacked up on one side. “They decided to use bigger guards, but the smaller one still almost got away.”

Both boys grinned for a moment and nodded. They were often underestimated for their size and age, but each knew that was a mistake.

“You just got here. We need to finish our plan. Return to the entrance. Drop the light orbs you have at intervals. Get those casks here as quickly as you can.”

Kaen held his hand up to stop everyone.

“Audrey, Gretel, and Rorick, you are with me.”

Gilmun cursed under his breath and took off after the two boys, who started jogging back toward the entrance.

After they were out of sight, Kaen turned and looked at the three with him.

“You have the hardest part coming up. Once they return with all the casks, we need to get them inside and detonate them. Everything will fall upon you to keep us alive until that happens.”

No one flinched, but he could see their reactions. It was enough pressure to stand beside someone in a fight and know you were responsible for that person’s life. Being told you were responsible for the only dragon rider alive was well beyond that.

Handle With Care

A smile lit up Kaen’s face as he saw Patrick and Frederick carrying twelve of them on a specially made litter while Gilmun had three, two on his back and one in his arms.

“It’s not fair,” the dwarf said between breaths. “I got short arms and legs, plus I’m older… these two… they run me ragged.”

Both boys grinned slightly before grabbing their carrying tool and took off jogging back into the cave.

“It’s ok, I feel your pain. Just know, only one trip left.”

The dwarf snorted and took off after the two boys.

“He runs funny,” Audrey said after the dwarf was out of earshot. “Like there is a stick or something up his arse.”

“Maybe a short stick,” Kaen replied, ignoring the other two's laughter before returning to watch the moving black wall of liquid.

How are things outside?

Amaranth is keeping watch, but so far, she has seen nothing. I’m assuming they made it to you already.

Yup. They are headed back to you. Soon, this part will be over, and we can return home to our mates.

A groan came through their bond, and Kaen allowed himself to smile.

He was going to tell Ava what Pammon called her for certain.

“Now listen, we are going inside. Once there, we need to get these stacked along the wall so that it brings down a massive section of rock.”

Kaen pointed at the small drawing he had made on a piece of paper and pointed to a few different spots on the image.

“These points will need five casks each. There will be four over here. The remaining spots need three each. Do you have any questions?”

Gilmun raised his hand, and Kaen motioned to him.

“If a fight breaks out?”

Knowing the question would come, Kaen stood up and put his pencil up.

“If it happens, I will do what I can to defend while Audrey, Gretel, and Rorick provide support. You, Phillip, and Frederick need to get those casks in place. Start with the entrance first. We will go outward afterward. I would prefer to at least close the portal as we run for our lives.”

The dwarf grunted and nodded.

“Anyone else?”

With no more questions, Kaen pointed at the portal. “I’ll go through first. Count to ten, then someone comes after. Once we are all through, we will start having you retrieve the casks.”

Each of the six had stumbled after their first time through. A few whispers and muttered words came from their lips as they stared across the open cavern and the massive amount of tents, stone buildings, and movement of bodies in the area.

The smell hit them as they realized the air was dank and filled with smoke and death.

“Hurry!”

Moving to the side where a small rock partially blocked the right side from vision, Kaen motioned for the three-support people to accompany him. “Stay here. This is your safest spot. Herb has told you what to do. You know the plan. Protect first. Kill second.”

The minutes passed as the first set of barrels were in place. The second set was more challenging, which required them to move thirty yards in each direction. Kaen would keep an eye out, scanning across the multitude of creatures, nodding when he deemed it safe for the group of three to move, always holding an arrow ready to fire.

With the second section in place, Kaen motioned to the side he was on. “You three, grab a barrel. We will go the farthest out and then the next. Got it?”

They nodded, running back into the portal.

As they moved around the wall of the massive cavern, each of them waited and paused, watching as Kaen motioned for them to move forward and when to stop.

Sweat dripped down the three cask carriers as they approached the final ten yards where they needed to deposit the casks.

“Stop!” Kaen hissed, lowering himself and watching as the three froze and hid along the ground as low as possible.

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A group of ten orcs was moving closer to them than the usual packs, carrying a massive stone on their shoulders. None looked at them, but Kaen knew it might get one of the orcs' attention if they moved.

The minute seemed to stretch until the group passed them, and Kaen felt safe enough to move.

Five yards from their final spot, the cavern erupted with noise.

The sound of a bell suddenly ringing out and a green spell of some kind going toward the ceiling told Kaen what he feared.

Turning his head back toward the other group, which was almost one hundred yards from them, Kaen saw a pack of at least thirty orcs and goblins rushing their group by the entrance.

One look told him everything he needed to know.

“We’re screwed, give me the cask.”

Gilmun hadn’t moved even though he was the closest to Kaen, so Kaen went to him, grabbing the wooden barrel filled with explosives from his hands.

“Run and don’t look back!” Kaen shouted. Their dwarf stood there confused for a moment, so Kaen gave him a gentle shove to get him moving.

Taking three steps, Kaen threw the cask as far as he could across the cavern, not waiting to see it as he moved to where Phillip and Frederick were, both holding out theirs for him.

“Holy elf tits,” Gilmun cursed as the cask flew over a hundred yards into the cavern.

“I said run!”

Halfway between Kaen’s second throw, an explosion rocked the cavern.

The force of it knocked the other three to the ground while Kaen stumbled a step and finished his toss, not getting near the distance he wanted on it.

Kaen helped Gilmun and Phillip, lifting them both to their feet.

Their ears rang from the sound as another explosion echoed a second later, knocking the two off their feet again. Kaen winced, the pain of what he felt. Ringing filled his ears caused by the force of the impact from the casks going off near the entrance and sides.

Rocks began to fall, stones starting to crash down around them.

Kaen was the only one still on his feet as dirt and dust filled the air.

Grabbing the dwarf and Phillip again, he pulled them to their feet.

Looking where Frederick lay, he froze for half a second.

Blood was running down the boy's head where a rock had struck him, his eyes rolled back into his head.

On the ground, a stone the size of Hess’s fist lay near the incapacitated young man, blood on one side of it.

Yanking a potion from his pouch, Kaen ripped out the stopper and poured it down his companion's mouth.

The boy’s eyes rolled back to the front of his face, and his mouth hung open as the sound of a bone popping back into place came from the side of his head.

Four seconds later, Frederick held his hand against his head and let out a groan.

“Move!” Kaen repeated, motioning with his hand toward the direction away from the entrance.

Shoving Frederick ahead, he grabbed the last barrel and ran behind them.

Plan D!

Confusion came from Pammon as his friend tried to understand what Kaen had just said.

Plan D? We don’t have a plan D!

I know! My other two plans are off the table! Give me a minute and I’ll update as I can figure something out.

His night vision helped guide him along the wall, and he got Frederick up next to Phillip, who was trying not to cough from the dust.

“Keep ahold of each other. Watch your feet!”

Gilmun stopped and waited until the three of them caught up, and after Phillip grabbed his shoulder, Kaen motioned for them to keep moving.

“We need to reach the other side!”

Taking the last cask, Kaen tossed it toward the middle of the cavern.

As it exploded, Kaen ran ahead with his bow out, letting Gilmun hold onto the back of his shirt for dear life.

Plan D is we make it out the other side of the mountain.

Pammon was roaring outside, and Kaen could feel his dragon’s frustration like a raging torrent of water in a river.

Seeing a pack of goblins notice them, Kaen put his bow away.

We’ve been through worse. Trust me, we’ll make it through this.

The orc pack wasn’t prepared for what happened. Even as a group of twenty Kaen had entered their midst and struck each of them down before they could cry out enough to draw attention to their plight. Heads were sliced off, and a pile of red blood stained the rock they stood on.

Racing back to where the three of his crew waited, Kaen motioned for them to keep going.

“I only have seventeen arrows left! We need to fight close if it comes to that. You three keep moving along the wall. I will defend you!”

Gilmun almost said something until Phillip pushed him from behind, keeping up the pace as Kaen watched where they ran. A cloud of dust was rising in the air, and breathing was getting worse. The red and orange light from the fires and flames turned the whole cavern into a soft, glowing light.

Another green magical bolt flew into the air, exploding into a green glow that covered the cavern.

Figures became visible through the cloud of dust, and a few roars near them told Kaen they had been spotted.

“Shields and weapons ready!”

Everyone equipped their weapons and followed Kaen as they raced around the cavern wall.

Meanwhile, an army of figures raced toward them through the cloud of dust.

Kaen lost count as he cut down the number of creatures that continued to assault the four of them.

He was a figure of death, everything the legends had mentioned about a dragon rider being.

The only problem was trying to protect three other people from the same horde that outnumbered them on every side but one.

Spells rained down on them from casters hiding behind the mountain of muscles. To get to them, Kaen had to leave the three he needed to protect. Not leaving them meant they suffered from fireballs and more.

Phillip and Frederick were holding their own, neither flinching at the sight before them that would cause many battle-hardened men to buckle within the first seconds. Their time on the wall had made them numb to the horde shouting and making noises.

Each creature cackled as it desired to feast upon the flesh of those who had invaded their lair.

“Sheild wall!”

Gilmun held up his shield and watched as both boys stood on either side of him, using the stone behind them to protect them as thirty orcs and goblins rushed at them.

Swords, axes, and clubs attacked them, but the three held fast, absorbing the attacks and using their swords to inflict damage when a chance came.

The number of enemies made it harder for the orcs and goblins to move quickly or defend as they pressed against each other, each one trying to be the one to land a killing strike.

Kaen didn’t risk looking back, focused on the two Magus who had pushed a pack of over three hundred minions toward them. They were tossing spells at him, but his shield deflected each one, the flames that washed over it barely causing him any pain.

Every swing of Kaen’s sword cut down a path of goblins and orcs like wheat stalks against a thresher's blade.

When his shield wasn’t blocking a spell coming at him, it pulverized every creature he ran through, leaving a trail of carnage.

Cries and groans came from those dying as he ran at his targets.

“Get the human!” one of the Magus cried out as a fireball came from its hand, not aimed at Kaen but at a group of orcs near him.

A pack of four orcs was almost upon him when Kaen realized what kind they were. The harness on their chest left no doubt what would happen as the fireball raced toward the screaming creatures.

Changing directions, he ran backward, holding his shield out before himself, and a second later, the blast that erupted from the four orcs who had gladly given their life turned into a massive explosion, creating a thirty-yard wide section of space without a single living thing.

Except for Kaen, who had knelt behind his shield.

Smoke and some flames licked from the exposed parts of his leg and feet, but Kaen couldn’t help but smile as he stood up, seeing the look on both Magus’s ugly faces. The dragon armor he wore protected him against most of the effects of the magic.

Like an arrow, he sprinted at them, covering the now clear space, and was upon them in less than a few seconds.

They tried to shield themselves, casting barriers and other spells, hoping to buy them time to find some way to stop the man who had withstood everything they had thrown at him.

None of that mattered as he shattered their spells and unleashed attacks with his sword, dropping them to the ground, each of them now missing an entire leg.

As they toppled over, he moved quickly between the two, taking their heads off and sprinting back toward the build up of creatures surrounding his friends.

What Lives in a Cavern

The piles of bodies the three had created aided their defenses but had shoved them against the stone, unable to move or strike out themselves.

Frederick was in the middle, struggling to stand as a trio of orcs with spears overwhelmed his open side and landed strikes against his right leg.

The three of them kept fighting, knocking weapons away and focusing more on standing their ground while they waited for Kaen.

The crashing sound and cries that grew louder than the shouts of excitement told them he was close.

Bodies flew in the air. Parts of bodies joined that flight as Kaen ran through the cluster of monsters, smashing into and through them without hesitation.

The armor he wore was the newest gift he had received from King Bosgreth. The king had proclaimed that no finer suit had been made in centuries when he presented the chest piece and leggings made from the scales taken from Tharnok.

For almost two years, the master craftsman in his hall worked on the two pieces, forging special pieces of metal to bind the scales together and prevent them from coming loose.

He longed for a helmet, boots, and gloves, but they did the job he needed right now. Every blow that hit him didn’t penetrate, bouncing off or shattering the weapon.

His own strength and stamina absorbed every blow without a problem.

The last ten feet between him and his men were the hardest, cutting through the tightly packed orcs and goblins and shoving aside the corpses that already had piled up.

Screams came with each swing, and soon, he had created a path to the trio stuck in here with him.

When he saw Frederick's leg bleeding and how he was leaning against the stone wall more than standing on his own, a difficult choice arose. He had only two more healing potions remaining, and if he used one now, things like this would happen again, and there would come a time when someone would die.

Spinning like a top, Kaen’s shield and sword cleared a spot for him to maneuver, seeing the creatures starting to back away with no leader to drive them toward him.

Their hesitation shifted the battle, and a few minutes later, no creature remained near them, as the ones who could get away had run off, seeking help.

“How bad?” Kaen asked, coming back, and seeing Gilmun binding his student’s leg.

“I can’t put weight on it. They cut the muscle and the tendon with their attack.”

Phillip moved away, keeping watch as Kaen tried to read Gilmun’s face.

“Thoughts?”

The dwarf grunted and motioned to the pile of bodies around them. “We’re your limiting factor. Without us, you can easily escape or slaughter every one of these things. Protecting us may get all four of us killed.”

Frederick nodded, motioning to his leg as Gilmun moved to help support him. “If you need to leave me, I’ll fight as long as possible.”

Kaen shook his head. This boy of sixteen years was as hard as steel, and his face showed no hope that Kaen would ignore the statement he had just made. He was ready to die if it meant the three of them might escape.

How hard did I push these boys?

“We’ll go as a group. I’m not leaving you or anyone else behind.”

Turning around, Kaen saw what Phillip was looking at.

“They're coming again,” Phillip stated. “At least twice as many.”

“Pickup Frederick. Carry him and run. You can make two miles before you need a break, right?”

Phillip grinned as he turned, putting his sword into his scabbard, and motioning for Frederick to do the same. “I can probably make it three. It’s been a while since we raced.”

Bobbing his head, Kaen resisted the urge to smile. “Gilmun, keep up, defend their back. I’ll keep the patch clear as long as I can before returning to you three. If it gets bad, put him down and defend yourselves. I’ll find you.”

Without waiting for them to respond, Kaen was gone, running faster than any deer or other animal those boys or dwarf had ever seen run.

Frederick winced as Phillip grabbed him, throwing his friend over his right shoulder while keeping his shield in his left hand.

“This is going to suck for you,” Phillip declared as he started to run, squeezing his friend as tight as he could, hoping to keep the bouncing to a minimum.

“Goblin shite,” Gilmun shouted as he raced after the boy. “I’ve got short legs, remember that!”

Where are you? I can sense you, but you are still deep within the mountain. It is like you are shifting directions, sometimes coming toward the other side and other times running through the middle of it.

Kaen ignored the question. His sword was pointed at a pair of cave trolls that blocked his path. A flame surrounded his sword as it carved the flesh from their skin. The smell was horrible, but the noise they made as he carved them into pieces that didn’t regenerate was far worse.

Once both of them were dead, heads split in two, and hearts pierced, he raced toward the pack of hobgoblins that were running toward his three friends.

Arrows plinked off his armor, and Kaen ignored the creatures who couldn’t understand why nothing they tried seemed to take down the man like it should.

They had moved slowly along the cavern wall for over an hour, only now realizing how expansive it was. They had already traveled twelve miles through the cavern as it snaked inside the mountain. Some areas were a mile wide, and others as much as three.

Phillip was doing his best, carrying his friend, who gradually got weaker with each passing moment.

Catching up to the hobgoblins from behind, Kaen slaughtered them, watching as the ones further ahead heard the sounds of their dying brethren and turned, finding the same fate coming for them.

I have no idea… it’s been over an hour, and we still see more caverns ahead. It does twist and turn.

You need to be careful.

Chuckling, Kaen ignored Pammon for a moment. A few more orcs were getting close to his men.

Each time they stopped and rested for a few minutes, Kaen considered using a potion, but the fear of not knowing how much further they had until they reached the exit kept him from doing so.

“I’m fine,” Frederick said with a grunt. “My offer still stands if you–”

“I don’t, and stop asking,” Kaen replied, cutting the boy off. “We will make it. All of us. Now drink and eat while you can. We have less than a minute.”

Phillip was covered in sweat and gore. The fatigue of carrying his friend was starting to show. Gilmun looked even rougher, but the dwarf wasn’t about to complain when two boys, over a third younger than he was, continued to keep a positive attitude.

As they started running again, Kaen heard a roar from the direction they were heading.

“What in a goblin’s teat was that?” Gilmun asked, tossing his empty water skin to the ground.

Shaking his head, Kaen shrugged. “Something tells me we are about to find out.”

Two miles later, the towering monstrosity of what had to be an orc came into view. Judging from the distance and his experience, Kaen realized it had to be close to twenty feet tall. It carried two massive hammers, each over half its body's size, chains attached to their shafts, and a belt around its waist.

“Impossible,” Gilmun gasped, almost tripping as he ran.

“What is it?”

“A siege ogre… but those things haven’t been seen since the old stories.”

Kaen’s mind searched to remember anything he could about one of these, but the truth was, he had never heard of them before. Gilmun’s statement of how long it had been since one was seen made him concerned about what other things might stand in their way.

“You three keep on the path you are on. I’ll move off to face it.”

“Sure, that’s a good idea?” Gilmun asked. “Not that I doubt you, but those were rumored to be able to crush dwarven walls with a few strikes.”

Glancing back at the dwarf, who was gasping for air, Kaen gave him a wink before drifting to the left. “Would you rather I let it come over here and you two fight?”

A coughing fit came over Gilmun, and Kaen heard Frederick give a small laugh.

Not waiting for a reply, Kaen took off ahead, clearing out the creatures between his men and that ogre.

I wish you were here. This is about to get interesting.

A hint of concern and worry came through their bond, not blocked by the amount of stone between them.

What are you going to do?!

Smiling, Kaen sliced the head off an orc while smashing through another one.

Fighting a new ogre. He is about half as tall as you are.

I swear if you–

Yes, mother, I know. Don’t die…

Pammon grumbled as Kaen moved toward the monstrosity thundering toward him.

For a brief moment, he understood how Hess must have felt those five years ago when death was so close.

Don’t say it… I can feel that thought!

A hammer whistled over his head, and the other followed behind it. The hammer slammed into the rock, shattering it.

Pieces flew through the air, shrapnel from the power of its strike against the mountain floor, and cracks ran from the point of impact that stretched at least ten yards in each direction.

Coming out of the roll, Kaen raced toward the ogre, who moved far faster than he had expected for something so large.

The only hit he had landed so far had cut just a few inches.

This thing's skin is tougher than anything I have fought so far.

Another hammer strike came at him, the ogre using its momentum again to spin, the weight of the hammer making it act like a top.

Each head of the hammer was solid metal, almost as tall as Kaen, and wider as well.

Occasionally, a foolish orc tried to rush in and help, but it was turned to paste by its own ally, who didn’t care that it killed one of its own.

Standing his ground, Kaen held up his shield, preparing for the first attempt at blocking the hammer swinging low along the ground.

A cracking sound rang across the cavern, echoing for miles, but the immediate impact and sound left Kaen struggling to stand for a moment. The effect of the shield and its steadfast ability held true.

Someday I hope to see what that armor in the vault offers.

The ogre also appeared stunned, the sound of the impact disorienting it.

It pulled on the hammer that had collided with Kaen’s shield and noticed that a massive three-foot section was missing, split from the main part, and lying on the ground.

Glancing at his feet, Kaen realized he had been moved about ten feet from the strike by the trail of scratches along the rock he had slid along.

First recovering, Kaen raced to the ogre’s arm and sliced at the wrist, holding the broken weapon. He then ignited his sword with his magic and cut deeper with the magical assistance.

The ogre shouted in pain as its wrist was sliced and a tendon got cut.

Not waiting for it to recover, Kaen moved to its feet and drove his sword into its leg, slightly above the ankle, and leaned into it, running around its entire leg, severing most of the muscle and all of the tendons.

The creature howled in pain as its leg gave way, and the massive ogre crashed to the ground, sending a cloud of dust into the air.

Running from under the ogre as it fell forward, Kaen glanced toward his men and saw a pack of four tier-two ogres racing at them.

“Hairy dwarf balls,” he muttered as he raced away, leaving the massive ogre alive but injured.

Underground Troubles

Kaen watched as the ogres chased after his men, running backward and trying to keep as much distance as possible.

The only good news was that most orcs and goblins had not followed them. The large clumps of their dead allies convinced them not to chase unless a stronger ogre made them.

Sheathing his sword and swapping it for his bow, Kaen sighed.

Eight arrows…

There was no other option, and he knew it. The distance to reach them before the ogres ran them down was too great.

Kaen drew two arrows and sent his mana into them, charging them so they crackled with electricity. He ran, holding the shot ready and dodging the few creatures that felt they needed to stay in his path.

As the creatures came into range, he paused, slowing down just enough to feel comfortable with the distance the shot needed.

[ Twin Shot ]

Both arrows flew across the cave, lighting arcing once or twice between the arrowheads as they traveled toward their targets.

The two ogres in the front of the pack took both arrows in their side, jerking for a moment as the power of the lighting coursed through them, causing them to stumble and roll.

Both ogres behind them slowed down, glancing toward Kaen, who had put his bow away and was running full speed again with his sword drawn.

The one in front pointed at Kaen as it continued the chase after Phillip and the others.

A chain ogre with two massive axes came running toward him, planning on slowing down or maybe even injuring the man that had just crippled their Siege Ogre.

No time could be wasted, so Kaen kept running, even as the ogre prepared to swing at him with both axes.

The moment Kaen leapt at the ogre’s head with his shield out, it realized that at no point had this human actually planned on dodging or blocking its attack. As the axes swung toward the spot it had expected, Kaen, the shield crashed into and through the ogre's face, leaving a trail of blood, bones, and brains as Kaen flew over its shoulders.

A massive corpse thudded and rolled along the ground, with no head to be found.

Landing and rolling to his feet, Kaen took off toward the last ogre about to reach his friends.

Phillip stopped, ignoring his aching muscles and lack of air, dropping Frederick on the ground.

“Stay!” he shouted, pointing at the man trying to rise and pull his weapon. “Gilmun with me!”

The dwarf nodded, ignoring the spit and snot in his red beard as he drew his weapon and tried to get a few more breaths of air into his lungs.

“Plan?” he gasped as they stood side by side, taking a few steps toward the charging ogre.

“Stay alive. Kaen is coming. We just need a few seconds.”

Gilmun nodded, watching the ogre that was racing toward them. “Tier two?”

“Think so… has armor though… not sure…” Phillip replied, taking deep breaths as the last bit of distance separating them from the rushing ogre disappeared.

It roared, swinging the colossal sword it had in a wide arc.

Patrick read the movement and judging by how fast it had charged, he knew it would be at an angle he could most likely deflect.

Raising his shield and using both hands to provide the support needed, the blow struck and bounced off his shield slightly, still sending the boy to the ground in a roll.

Gilmun didn’t wait, rushing forward and slashing at the ogre’s leg with his sword.

As its sword swung and the momentum carried it around, the ogre lifted up its right leg to kick the dwarf charging it.

Seeing the attack and knowing he had just put himself in harm's way, Gilmun lowered himself, sticking his sword along the edge of his shield and preparing for the incoming blow.

The ogre’s shin caught Gilmun as he had gotten close enough to minimize some of its momentum, but it still drove its leg into the sword, crashing into the shield and sending the dwarf flying through the air.

A thud and a groan came as Gilmun slammed into the wall, sliding down its rough exterior and landing on his face.

Howling, the ogre turned, glaring at the dwarf and the piece of metal lodged in its leg from Gilmun’s sword, which had snapped during that impact.

It hobbled over toward the dwarf, lying face first on the ground, and roared, lifting up its sword as it prepared to stab at it.

Phillip approached its injured leg, not shouting like so many might. He had learned that if an enemy doesn’t know you are there, let it find out the hard way.

He activated his flurry skill, and five thrusts landed in rapid succession on the ogre's leg, cutting off the tendon running from its Achilles.

The leg buckled, and the ogre fell forward, its sword clattering along the ground as it went down.

Not wasting a moment, Phillip unleashed multiple strikes and attacks at its side. As its armor lifted, the exposed skin was quickly covered in deep gashes.

A hand came back as the ogre tried to swipe, and Phillip saw it coming and stepped away, slicing with his sword and cutting off four fingers from the hand that had tried to strike him.

Off balance and out of position, the young man moved forward, years of fighting experience flowing through him as he moved. His sword came up and through, catching the ogre in the throat.

Dancing away, the creature fell face first as it tried to grab the wound that was gushing blood and cracked its own face into the stone floor.

Breathing heavily, Phillip lunged forward once more and drove the sword down into the base of the ogre's neck, severing its spinal cord.

“Good work.”

Phillip spun, seeing Kaen standing there with a slight smile.

“Just doing what you taught me,” replied Phillip as he cleaned off his sword and went to check on Gilmun, who was groaning as he stood up.

“How bad are you?” Kaen inquired as he checked on the dwarf.

“A few broken ribs,” he said and then coughed, wincing and some blood coming from his mouth. “Maybe punctured lung.”

Nodding, Kaen reached into his pouch and pulled out a healing potion.

“You and Frederick will both get half. I only have one left.”

The dwarf nodded and took the potion, drinking half and reacting as everyone did when they were healed.

Kaen moved to Frederick, who was turning white, and the blood loss starting to impact him.

I’m an eggling for waiting this long…

“Drink this,” Kaen ordered as he helped the boy swallow the liquid.

After they had recovered slightly, Kaen turned and saw Phillip gazing at the cavern around them.

“They haven’t pressed the attack…. Why not?”

“I’m not sure,” Kaen replied, wondering the same thing. “We have killed a lot, and I just took down what I can only guess was not one they had intended to send to fight… still…”

Phillip turned to his mentor and laughed. “I think you mean you have killed a lot. At least a thousand or two?”

Rolling his eyes, Kaen gave the boy a gentle hit to the shoulder and grunted.

“We need to get going. I don’t want to waste this break.”

Without hesitation, Phillip turned and moved to where Frederick was standing.

“You ok?”

Frederick nodded and gently tapped his leg.

“Bleeding has stopped, but I’m still light-headed. I think I lost more blood than I realized.”

“How are your ribs?” Kaen asked Gilmun.

The dwarf twisted a few different ways and took a few deep breaths. “Healed, tender but not broken.”

Glancing at Phillip, Kaen grinned. “Who do you want to carry?”

“You take Gilmun. We both know he’s heavier than he looks.”

The dwarf scoffed and snorted, unsure if that was an insult.

Without hesitation, Kaen moved to the dwarf and scooped him up like a parent might a child.

“Hey!” exclaimed Gilmun, who had no time to react as Kaen put him over his shoulder. “I’m a grown dwarf!”

Kaen laughed, nodded, and turned to see Phillip taking a second to get Frederick.

“On second thought,” Kaen said as he swooped over and grabbed Frederick, who was caught off guard by his action. I’ll carry them both. Let’s go!”

Not hesitating, he turned and took off, listening to both men complain as he carried them while he ran.

You are getting closer. I can feel you.

Since they had started running, they only had to stop and fight three times. Phillip could keep the pace Kaen set a lot longer without having to carry his lifelong friend.

Gilmun and Frederick had given up on Kaen, putting them down, realizing the amount of ground they were covering and the speed at which they moved.

I have noticed the same thing. Are you outside the cave?

Yes, I am above it, though. When you finally get here, you might find an angry dragon waiting for you.

Chuckling to himself, Kaen kept running, knowing that soon enough, they might hopefully see his dragon.

Twenty minutes later, Kaen slowed and set the two men down.

“That isn’t good,” he said, pointing at the area where a massive amount of dead orc and goblin bodies were covered by rocks and stone. “They blew up their own exit.”

“Never easy is it?” Gilmun complained as he glanced behind them. “What now?”

“Clear a path and then our way out. Make sure no enemies are around that can attack us.”

The dwarf started to grumble until he saw both boys nodding and moving to follow Kaen.

“Elf tits, you three are impossible!”

Kaen and Phillip worked on the rocks while the other two kept guard.

Only a few orcs and goblins had been dumb enough to come close to them. A single ogre had moved near them, causing everyone to get their weapons and prepare to fight, but the group with it backed away, moving out of sight.

“I’m not a fan of how this feels,” Gilmun said as he continued to watch. What happened here? These bodies aren’t new.”

Kaen threw boulders like they were pebbles, no longer getting shocked looks from the dwarf who had never seen the man’s true strength. “You’re right. They sealed them in, not letting them escape. Obviously, something happened within the ranks that caused enough of them to try and desert or go elsewhere.”

Phillip smashed some rocks with a war hammer he had found near the bodies and continued to grind away at the pile near them. “This is going to take time, isn’t it?”

Kaen nodded. “I’ve worked enough rock to know this won’t be cleared today. Gilmun, go ahead and rest if you can. We’ll need to take turns keeping watch.”

The dwarf grunted and then sighed, “Fine, but don’t blame me if something sneaks up on us while I rest.”

Everyone laughed, a small break in the mood that had been heavy since the plan went sideways was just what they needed.

Watching the three of them sleep, Kaen continued to grab boulders and chuck them across the cavern. The sound of them hitting rock and rolling was a steady rhythm as he kept up the pace he knew wouldn’t over-exert him.

His hands felt different as he removed his gloves to do this work. It had been ages since he had such a task, and for this brief moment, buried under a mountain and doing something so mundane, Kaen was at peace.

You feel different.

That is because I forgot how much I enjoyed the quarry, even when all I could think about was getting away from it. The work was honest and made me better because I did it.

Does that mean you and I are retiring from this work and going to open up a quarry?

Kaen chuckled and felt Pammon join him in the moment.

I’m an idiot, aren’t I?

Pammon didn’t reply, and Kaen continued to toss rocks, picking which ones to go for so a rock slide didn’t take place on him.

No… you are not an idiot. The plan was dangerous, and there were many ways it could fail. I know the loss of the others hurts, but you may have discovered something even greater by doing this.

Are the orcs and goblins blocking their own troops in?

Pammon’s agreement with that statement trickled through their bond.

What could cause them to treat their own like that? How bad must things be for them to turn on each other?

Kaen picked up another boulder and threw it, hearing it smash into the ground and the sounds of rocks starting to shift behind him.

Moving away, he watched as several rocks shifted for a moment and then stopped.

Let me get back to work. I see the spot I need to clear. After that, perhaps I can find us an opening.

Be careful. I have your side covered out here.

Smiling, Kaen grabbed the war hammer that Phillip had found and set to work on a few stones he knew would be the key to the next part.

Tight Moments

After crushing rocks for an hour, Kaen felt everything was in place.

The others were awake, amazed at how Kaen had never slowed down. Each strike of his hammer was deliberate and precise, rocks cracking and shattering under the force. Yet none of the strikes broke more than it appeared Kaen wanted.

“We need to back up. This might cause a rockslide.”

Seventy yards away, Kaen pulled out his bow and infused the arrow nocked with magic. It grew bright, maintaining a red glow.

Letting the arrow loose struck the point of the rocks Kaen had aimed for, exploding and sending rocks in every direction. A massive noise from the blast echoed through the cavern, bringing a reaction of noises behind them.

“It sounds like the orcs and goblins are preparing to return!” shouted Gilmun as dust drifted from the massive rockslide.

“Let’s go and watch your step!” Kaen shouted, putting up his bow and pulling out his sword.

Their dwarf coughed a few times as the dust bothered his still-healing lungs, but Kaen led them along, moving past rocks that shifted as they climbed over them.

“Up there!” Phillip called out as he pointed to the top of the pile.

Kaen also saw it; they had found an opening at the top of the mountain of rocks.

A massive collective roar came from behind them.

“Those things waited for us to clear a path!” Kaen shouted, pointing at the opening. You three go! I’ll hold them off!”

None of them argued as they clamored over the rocks, making their way up and into the opening that was only about four feet wide. Kaen watched as a horde of orcs and goblins gathered at the base of the rocks, looking up at the four of them as Kaen backed away slowly after his men.

Down below, the number of creatures continued to swell, well over a thousand and more coming by the second.

Pammon, we are about to be coming, and things will be nasty!

He could feel his friend moving and thought there was movement near the mountain's exit.

I’m here. Just make it to me.

Every creature seemed poised to begin climbing up the rocks after him and the others, yet they waited. Not looking a gift horse in the mouth, Kaen dashed up the pile of boulders and rocks and caught up with the other three, all on their hands and knees, climbing through the gap.

Phillip had a light orb out and was leading the other two, some areas getting tighter to where there was only a few feet of room instead of the initial four.

“Holy elf tits,” Gilmun called out from behind Phillip. “It’s like being in a mine!”

“There is an opening, but it’s going to be tight. Like real tight!”

Already struggling with the space around him, Kaen put his sword away and affixed his shield on his back. Between it and his bow, they were already catching on rocks that jutted each way.

Using his night vision, he could see just how tight things would get.

The other three had the advantage over him. He was thicker than any of them and saw the trouble the tight space was causing.

“You okay, Frederick?”

A grunt came from the boy, but he was obviously struggling to keep moving forward.

“I can’t breathe, it’s… it’s hard to focus.”

“Focus on my back!” shouted Gilmun, hearing the conversation behind him. “It happens in places like this. Ignore the rocks. Keep yer eyes on my back and nowhere else.”

“It’s just so tight… like it’s crushing me!”

The panic in Frederick’s tone was easy to hear, and Kaen squirmed behind him. “You have to go forward. There are over a thousand orcs and goblins behind us. I’m right here. Phillip is in front. Pretend this is just another training exercise and focus like Gilmun said.”

The shouts of creatures coming up the rocks they had just climbed added to the moment, and the young boy shook from his fear.

“Breathe, slowly, in and out. It will be hard at first, I know, but breathe.”

Gilmun’s voice was low and slow. Even over the thundering cries behind them, the dwarf backed up slowly so he was within reach of Frederick.

“Follow me. Focus on me, and we can get out of here.”

Wedged in that tunnel, Kaen knew time was running out. Soon, the creatures would come climbing into the hole, and he would be limited in his ability to fight back.

“Frederick, remember that promise you made all those years ago on the street? You told me you would give everything to be like me. Today is the final test. Show me all these years were worth it.”

A second passed, and Kaen saw the young boy change. His breathing returned to normal, and the tremors that had begun to consume him stopped.

Frederick began to move slowly, picking up speed as the dwarf before him moved ahead.

No one said anything, ignoring the sound of goblins entering the opening about twenty yards behind them.

Phillip was grunting, and Kaen couldn’t see what was happening, but he had an idea why.

“Moving… a few… rocks…” Phillip shouted. “Wedged good. It’s tight up here, Kaen.”

Already the path was closing in on him and his weapons were catching on to everything.

The same fear that Frederick had a moment ago tried to overwhelm him. He couldn’t turn around, and backing up wasn’t going to be an option much longer. Barely able to look behind him, he saw the creatures and their yellow glowing eyes staring at him, some being forced ahead by whatever monster was pushing them ahead.

Rocks were being dragged away from the opening, widening it up.

“Keep at them. I need to take off my bow and shield.”

Sliding back a few steps, the creatures' shrieking rose in the tunnel, and Kaen ignored them and the pit in his stomach.

Are you ok? Your heart is racing.

It’s tight down here. Worse than you can…

Kaen cut off his words as he reached a spot and finally got his shield off his back. Lying it on the ground ahead, he fumbled for his bow, ignoring whatever had struck him from behind.

I’m working on getting out of here. Just know there are thousands behind me.

Pammon was concerned, but a thread of strength flowed through their bond.

Smiling, even in the darkness of the hole, Kaen felt his friend giving him support.

Thank you.

Always, now focus on what you need to do.

Putting his bow on his shield, Kaen slid them along the rocks, helping them over the spots that blocked the path.

“I’m out!” Phillip shouted, his words echoing through the tunnel.

Kaen could see the light ahead. A few dips and turns blocked the exit he knew had to be between him and the exit.

As he squirmed and weaved through it, the rocks felt like a monster, wrapping its massive hand and fingers around him and squeezing. Breathing was challenging as he saw the opening ahead.

“Grab my shield,” Kaen grunted, struggling to fill his lungs.

Gilmun squirmed into the opening ahead and grabbed it with his fingers, blocking out the light from Phillips's orb.

“Focus on this next spot,” the dwarf warned. “It’s tight; I can see it in your eyes. You can do this, just like your student did.”

Wanting to laugh, Kaen just gave a slight nod. The dwarf was earning his reputation at this moment, helping them get through a spot they might have floundered at without his calm demeanor.

Seven feet from the opening, Kaen saw the other three looking at him, the look of concern and hope fighting for space on their faces.

A small area of rocks pinched in tighter.

“You able to widen this?” Kaen asked, his voice barely a whisper.

“Not quickly,” Gilmun replied. “This next part will be hard for you. Do you trust me?”

Looking at the red-headed dwarf and seeing the truth that lay deep within his eyes, Kaen nodded.

“Good. Here’s what we need to do.” Gilmun turned to Phillip. “You need to climb in and be ready to grab his hands. Toss that orb in so it lands near that spot so you can both see. Frederick, you and I will have to pull them both. I know we’re still hurting, but we must do our part.”

Leaning back over the hole that led to where Kaen was waiting, Gilmun smiled. “It’s time to pretend to be a dwarf, Dragon Rider Kaen. When Phillip is in place, I need you to wedge yourself. Get into that spot and keep your hands ahead of you. Use your toes to push. Then, the hard part comes next. You will feel crushed, unable to breathe, but we both know it isn’t true. Once Phillip has your hands, he will tell us, and I will give the call. Now watch.”

Gilmun leaned over and put his hands against his chest.

Somehow, Gilmun expelled even more air, his hands not moving and inches appearing between them. For about twelve seconds, he held it like that before he started to shake. Another seven passed as he trembled, and the dwarf finally took a deep breath.

“You will have to do that. You will have to expel all the air from your lungs. It will burn, and your natural reaction will be to take a deep breath. Fight it. You cannot do that while in that spot.

Use your feet and use those toes. Drive as we pull. Do you understand?”

Kaen nodded, calming himself and grateful for the thread of strength coming from Pammon.

“I’m ready.”

Gilmun nodded and pointed toward the opening, where Phillip bent down and tossed the lightstone inside.

The bright light almost made things worse, as Kaen's shadows made the small path feel even tighter. Phillip climbed in, keeping a small smile as he inched forward.

It looked like the young man wanted to say something, but he didn’t; instead, he kept his eyes focused on the man who had trained him. When Phillip was close he held his arms out, waiting for Kaen.

“I’m in position.”

Gilmun grunted and pointed at Frederick, who moved to the other side of the opening and prepared to grab Phillip’s ankle.

“Strong but gentle, don’t jerk,” Gilmun warned as they got into position.

“Ok, Kaen, move forward, and Phillip, tell me the second he has your hands.”

Kaen used his feet, pressing against rocks that seemed to slip as he dug his toes in, his armored shoes feeling like weights now that held him back.

The rocks caught against his dragon-armored chest and legs, but inch by inch, he got closer till his hands were clasped around Phillips.

The world was so dark, even with the light of the orb, as the weight of a mountain pressed every side of him.

“I got him!” Phillip shouted, his voice seeming loud in that chamber of rocks.

“Blow everything out!” Shouted Gilmun. “Phillip, say when!”

Kaen’s breaths were already so short and quick. Barely any movement of his chest or lungs was possible. His whole body screamed, and his mind was raging against him.

Closing his eyes, he focused as Hess had taught him so long ago- on the target before him and letting everything else fade away. His lifestone burned gently, reminding him of the strength inside.

Forcing every bit of air from his lungs, Kaen felt a little space starting to form around him, the smallest amount of room finally there.

“Now!”

Seconds stretched on as Kaen felt his body pulled, his arms lengthening his body and those massive shoulders and traps being wedged against his head. He tried to not crush Phillip’s hands and wrists as he held on, feeling his body get stuck in the tight embrace of stone.

“Pullll!” grunted Gilmun as Kaen fought the urge to try and take a breath. His mind was swimming from needing to breathe, and his lungs felt like they would obey its desires.

His toes dug and pressed, and he was unable to use his legs like he wanted. Only the tiny movements of his ankles and calves seemed to work.

The sound of rocks scraping across his armor filled his ears, as Phillip tugged and twisted his arms, trying to shimmy his mentor through the gap.

Kaen’s eyes watered; even shut, they leaked out as he wasn’t sure if he could hold on much longer without taking a breath. Even if he had wanted to, he knew nothing would come, which would send him into a state of panic as the rocks hugged his chest.

Finally, a surge of him moving forward came, wrenched free from the mountain that wanted to hold him forever. A few feet slid by quickly, and he gasped for air, feeling the constraints against his torso gone.

Stale, dirty, old air filled his lungs, yet every bit of it felt better than he could remember air having ever been.

“There we go,” the dwarf grunted as they continued to pull him and Phillip into the opening on the other side of the fallen stone.

Lying on his stomach, Kaen forced himself to roll over, his lungs filling up as much as possible half a dozen times before he forced himself to get up.

“Remind me I never want to be a dwarf in a mine,” Kaen joked as he saw the other three smiling at him.

“I hear that,” Frederick replied, nodding in agreement.

Collecting their gear, Kaen stared back into the hole behind him and the movement he saw inside.

Slowly, he gathered his bow and arrows.

How One Should Act

Kaen infused his arrow with power and sent it flying down into the tunnel.

The explosion shook the rocks he was standing on as he hopped down as quickly as possible.

“You three ready?” Kaen asked as he looked at them, each wondering what had taken him so long.

They nodded, and Frederick moved to the front, holding up the one light stone they had left.

We are on our way.

It’s about time. Amaranth has been pestering me this whole time. Apparently, I have been acting like a mother hen she says, with how I have been worrying about you. She said it is fine if I act like that with our children but not you.

Chuckling, Kaen followed behind as the four of them jogged through the cave.

Pammon was outside when they reached the exit, the sun's light spilling through the massive entrance.

Running forward, Kaen hugged his dragon, who trilled slightly for a moment before stopping when he saw Amaranth staring at him.

High above them was the sun, already past the midday point.

“That long?” Frederick asked out loud, shielding his eyes from the brightness.

Any movement along the swamp?

None. I sent Amaranth out to scout a little, and she saw nothing but the occasional animal. She wasn’t happy when I made her return without hunting. I tried to warn her about the birds, but…

Kaen nodded, scratching his friend's neck for a moment longer before facing the others.

“I know it’s been a long time. If you need to use the restroom, do it now. I want to fly all the way back to Ebonmount before we land.”

The men nodded, each seeking a place for a little moment of privacy.

Amaranth, we will need to use Flight Burst to reach the capital quickly. Is that going to be a problem?

The green dragon huffed, expelling a massive breath out her nose as she glared at Kaen.

Why would it be a problem? I haven’t been the one waddling around all night, anxious at your return.

Kaen thumped Pammon’s neck as his dragon groaned.

I will remind you of those words in the coming weeks when you complain that I do not show you as much favor as Glynnis.

The green dragon moved closer to Pammon, who turned and matched her gaze as she puffed out her chest.

Kaen moved back, taking in the difference between them as Pammon had now reached a state where he was almost twice her size.

Would you hold that over me?

Pammon leaned down and put his snout close to hers.

He breathed on her and slowly touched the tip of his nose against her.

Whatever was conveyed between them was no longer something Kaen was given access to.

Based on Amaranth's reaction and how she and Pammon intertwined their necks a moment later, things appeared well between them.

How bad was it?

Flying over the destroyed forest, Pammon had waited at least a while before asking the question Kaen knew was on his mind.

Things went bad. We were fortunate to survive the initial blast that sealed the side we came in. There were still thousands of orcs and goblins in there. As attacks have stopped, something must be happening on their side, yet it looks like they have trapped one of their most potent ogres in the cave.

Listening and thinking, Pammon continued to speed across the sky, occasionally checking on Amaranth, who was still behind them.

They had dug out of those caves multiple times when we destroyed some of them two years ago. Why stop? Why bury their own?

Kaen didn’t have an answer, and knowing Pammon was just as confused bothered him more.

What would it take for a kingdom to do that to its own people? If Aldric decided he needed to cut off everyone outside by bringing down the wall in the pass…

Something horrible is coming?

Kaen nodded, the dread both he and Pammon shared flowing between them.

Do you finally believe me now that the time for us to go on the offensive is now?

Knowing how often Pammon had told him this truth, and he had ignored it, Kaen gave up his notion that victory could be obtained some other way than by taking out Stioks.

Yes. We need to see Aldric.

“I don’t think I ever remember being so tired,” Aldric declared as he stifled a yawn. “Parenthood isn’t easy. I had heard it was difficult, but experiencing it now… it is harder than I imagined.”

Chuckling, Kaen nodded as he sipped the diluted warm wine the king’s men brought for them.

“I still can’t believe you finally remarried and had a child.”

Aldric gave a slight grin and shrugged. “I blame you. This whole ‘living’ and enjoying those moments of peace is what brought this on.”

Setting his cup down, Kaen remembered the wedding and how it had brought joy to the kingdom during its first year of fighting the orcs. News of the King’s new wife being pregnant rallied the people during those hard times, and now, a prince gave hope for another king like the one they had known.

“We need to talk about what I found and how bad things will be. Herb should be here soon, but I must talk to you about something else.”

Aldric set his cup down on the table and leaned against it. The eight-foot-long table was in the room they had used to track troop movements for the last few years. Every wall was covered in maps copied from ones Kaen had made.

Wall sections under repair, those defended and one with straw men on them to help look like real guards, decorated the room.

“I cannot sit back and wait any longer. I had hoped that with the news of dragon eggs and the us getting more riders, we could easily win the battle when it was time to face Stioks, but I realize that waiting like that is no longer an option. I must go and face him.”

The King’s face usually never flinched no matter what news was told to him, but his left eye twitched a few times. “You’re serious about this. I can see it in your eyes.”

Nodding slowly, Kaen stood up and moved to a map that showed the mountains with all the caves.

“This cave is sealed on both sides. We sealed the inside portion, but someone sealed the other side. I haven’t checked, but it would appear that this explains why the number of orcs attacking has decreased over the last few months. There is no reason why the orc king would just abandon this fight after so long.”

Bobbing his head, Aldric tapped his finger against the table. “You think they are regrouping… since Stioks has attacked the elves, you believe things may start again.”

Kaen knew his eyes answered that statement as Aldric read him. Moving to a map on the wall, he pointed at a section far to the southeast. “Somewhere out here is the orc king. I need to go find him and destroy the threat before it regroups. It will be easier than attacking Stioks first. If I can take out this threat, it will make what comes after easier.”

The sound of Aldric’s chair scraping against the stone floor seemed louder than usual as the man moved to stand next to the map Kaen was looking at. “It seems like a gamble. We have no idea how far that place could be, and there is no telling what might be out there number-wise. Would you risk being gone that long and flying out there alone?”

“Do you have a better idea?” Kaen asked, watching Aldric as the man studied the map.

Shaking his head, the older man frowned, scratching a chin with the slightest amount of stubble. As he watched, Kaen realized that Aldric looked thinner than he had a few weeks ago. Not wearing his armor made it evident to his keen eyesight.

“You’ve lost weight.”

Aldric’s eyebrows raised slightly before he nodded in reply. “People are hungry out there in the kingdom. I cannot continue to hide in my walls and eat while they don’t. We have already cut rations inside the castle. The food plots we are trying to grow inside the mountain are taking longer than we had hoped. Even with the envoy King Bosgreth sent to assist, we are months away from hoping to have enough food for everyone.” Pointing at the table where the map of the kingdom's defenses were, Aldric sighed. “I’m just grateful the dragons have been willing to eat the orcs and goblins, as we both know there are not enough animals to continue feeding them as one might desire. Soon, we will run out of food if something doesn’t change.”

“The war of attrition,” Kaen muttered, remembering what Elnidith had warned him of over six months ago. “We are starving, and they know it.”

Returning to his chair, Aldric plopped down, picked up his cup, and took a slow drink. “War is ugly, and this one has gone on longer than we had hoped. If the elves and dwarves hadn’t helped as they have, we would have been done half a year ago.

“My advisors have done everything they can to help with this problem and others. You know how I felt when I learned about two who were working for our enemy.”

Kaen nodded as Aldric scowled. The older man took a deep breath and let it out slowly, working through the anger and frustration of finding spies within his own walls.

Not wanting to rehash the past, Kaen moved on with their discussion.

“Which is why I need to attack the orcs and their army. If I can end their ability to keep up this assault, we can start the process of getting back on our feet.”

“And Ava? Have you told her about this plan yet?” Aldric asked.

Frowning as he shook his head, Kaen returned to his seat and sat down. “She wouldn’t like it, but I know she will see the wisdom in it.”

Unable to hold back, Aldric started to laugh, his voice echoing off the walls as he showed a rare moment of joy. “Kaen,” he said after wiping a tear away, “I hope for your sake things happen as you dream they might. I am afraid whatever foolish notion you have will be worse than you can believe. Not telling your wife of your plans leaves you open to other problems.”

Are you sure he is awake?

Why would you ask me that question? You know I can tell. He is inside the main room.

I know it just feels weird knowing you can tell that about Hess. When we get close, let him know I’m coming.

I’m grateful you finally acted as you should have a while ago. It is time to stop beating yourself up for the mistakes of the past and move forward. No one can force me to do anything if I have learned anything over these last few years.

Smiling, Kaen glanced down at the sleeping town. The moon was out, and light orbs glowed dimly in the streets as people rested.

For years, sleep had been a rare commodity. The horde attacked at all hours of the night. Their vision allowed them better success at night, and it meant everyone was up, ready to defend.

Children grew up without parents, which burned his heart more than Kaen wanted to admit. So many lives had been lost. So many families had been broken.

Let it go. You have saved more than most could have imagined. Together, we have done all that we could.

Kaen nodded, blinking back the tears that he felt forming.

So many new children had joined his academy because they had no family to return to. All those years of planning had provided a home for children growing up as he had- no parents.

In the rare moments, he got to visit, their statements of being just like him tore his heart to pieces.

He was done pouting and defending.

Tomorrow, he would be the one to bring the fight to his enemies.

Hess says he is ready for you. He also said to make sure you do not wake up Callie or Sulenda, which will make you suffer.

Patting Pammon’s neck, Kaen grinned, the anger he had a moment ago gone.

That girl is just like both her parents.

Yes… yes, she is, and that is a scary thing.

Fatherly Advice

Waving Hess’s attempt to pour him a cup of watered-down wine, Kaen sat in a chair, glancing around the rare empty room of the Dragon Rider’s Inn.

“Why are you out here?” Kaen asked, noticing how age had finally caught up with his dad.

“The office is stuffy, and when I sit out here and close my eyes, I can remember the good times we have had here. I remember the day we arrived in town and sat in that booth,” Hess stated, pointing at the one booth that had never changed in the entire remodel of the inn. “I remember how you wowed the people with your story and stood on the bar like a fool.”

Letting out a chuckle, Hess took a small sip of his drink before setting it down on the table they sat around.

“So, what stupid thing do you have planned? Pammon won’t tell me what it is, but I can feel something, and the way you’re sitting tells me you won’t be here long.”

Snickering, Kaen grinned slightly and leaned against the table. “Let me tell you what happened the last few days, and then I’ll tell you my plans. After that, you can tell me if I’m right or wrong in my decision.”

Refilling his drink, Hess nodded and shifted in his chair to get comfortable. “Will my opinion change what you are going to do?”

Smiling, Kaen shook his head.

“Well, then, Dragon Rider Kaen, tell this old man a story worthy of being told in this inn.”

Hess picked at his teeth with his tongue. The wrinkles had started appearing a few years ago on his face, and his age was evident after the injury to his arm. Folds of skin made mountains as he frowned, not happy with the results of the cave collapse or the plan to seek out the orc king’s domain.

He scratched his head for a moment, considering the plan and options before them.

“Do you really think you can find it?”

Shrugging, Kaen pointed at the map he had placed on the table a few minutes ago. “This is the only section we haven’t explored, and I’m not sure where else it could be. None of the reports from our spies in Luthaelia mention an actual kingdom of orcs there. They have told us about groups seen taking people away previously, but always to the south. That points to this area.”

Hess nodded, studying the map and never losing the partial scowl he now wore.

“And Ava?”

Chuckling, Kaen shook his head as he crossed his arms, leaning back in his chair. “Aldric asked me the same thing. Why does everyone seem to think this will be an issue?”

“Because she is your wife. I know you seem to think she understands you must do certain things because of who you are, but that doesn’t mean she will be excited or content to let you do this.”

“So you don’t agree with this plan then because of her?”

Hess groaned and stood up, shaking his head, stretching as he rose. “No, your plan is one of our few options. You and Aldric are right. If this doesn’t end soon, we will see disease and starvation become our biggest problems.” Hess pointed his finger at Kaen and gave a weak smile. “Just remember to ask her about this instead of telling her. It will go better.”

“If only I had gotten that armor from King Bosgreth sooner. Think of the difference it would have made against the initial rush of enemies.”

Hess shook his head at Kaen. “Let it go son. They torched a massive section of the forest, removing the ability to use it against them. Their siege weapons were a threat to you and the other dragons. Focus on what you can do now, not the mistakes and choices we didn’t make.”

Standing up, Kaen nodded, moved to where Hess was, and embraced him. Even though Hess was still taller, Kaen again realized how much time and all this work had taken a toll on his mentor and dad. His massive body had shrunk enough that, for the first time in a long time, Kaen realized the truth of something he had missed while lost in his concern for his past mistakes.

Hess is getting old…

A chuckle came through their bond, and Kaen smiled as they broke the embrace and gave Hess a gentle tap on his shoulder.

“Love you, Dad. Thanks for the advice, as always.”

Cocking his head to the side slightly, Hess studied Kaen’s expression and slowly began to nod as he smiled. “I doubt you’ll listen, but I’m glad I could offer some. Love you to Kaen. Be safe.”

Rolling up the map, Kaen began to move toward the door. When Kaen winked, and when Hess saw it, he groaned.

“Don’t you dare let him do that!” Hess shouted as quietly as possible.

Through their connections with Pammon, a thrum began to grow, and even with the noise-dampening runes, the cup on the table vibrated.

“Holy dwarf balls, Kaen, Sulenda is going to kill you!”

Running to the door to the inn, Kaen laughed, moving to where Pammon was waiting outside.

You better get out of here.

Or what? Sulenda won’t hurt me. Only you and Hess have to fear her.

Leaping into the air, Kaen watched as the few people who had stopped and watched from a distance waved at the two of them, giving a slight cheer.

Take me home. I need to talk to Ava.

A groan came from Pammon, and Kaen could feel the dread at that statement.

You’re not afraid of Ava, are you?

Only one person besides you can hurt me; that is her, and you know it. Please don’t make me suffer because you are an eggling. Hess was right. Ask, do not tell.

“Why are you asking me? Usually, you don’t do this?”

Kneeling next to her as she sat in a soft chair, Kaen kept the same smile he had since he walked in the door. “I didn’t want to tell you what I was thinking of doing. I wanted to know your thoughts and whether you agreed with this decision.”

Tapping her finger against her lips, Ava studied Kaen for a moment before turning and looking at Pammon, who was sitting inside the massive area of the room she was in. “Hess… you talked to Hess first, and he told you to ask, didn’t he?”

A thrum came from Pammon, and Kaen saw Ava smile as he lost his. “Perhaps my dad gave me some marriage advice.”

Snorting, Ava shook her head but never stopped smiling. “At least you listened. I guess I shouldn’t be too upset about that. I’d make you promise not to get injured, but we both know how well that last promise happened. Are you sure you’re not rushing into this after losing the others in the cave?”

Wincing from the reminder, Kaen shook his head, seeing Ava realize her comment had struck home and hit a nerve.

“No, but we all know what happens if another six months or more of fighting occurs. Food is our greatest threat now, and if we cannot stop the flood of orcs for good,” Kaen replied. “Children like Callie and the others need a place they can grow without fear.”

Groaning, Ava nodded and took a deep breath before letting it out. Turning her head toward Pammon, she rolled her eyes. “Some dragons spoil that child, why shouldn’t you make this about her then?”

Why do I always get blamed for spoiling that red headed child?

Both Kaen and Ava laughed as Pammon grumbled.

“Fine, Pammon and I will go get ready. I’ll return soon my love.”

Years of combat had provided Kaen with one of the greatest tools in life. The harness system he had for Pammon was constantly evolving as his dragon grew and the needs of combat shifted. It took less than ten minutes to put on the straps, saddle, and four baskets filled with arrows.

I need to thank Hess and Herb for really streamlining that process.

As Herb said, necessity is the mother of invention. Now, then, how quickly do you want to get there?

It’s been a few long days, and I’m actually planning on sleeping a few hours, if you don’t mind. Are you good on food?

Yes… My displeasure of nothing but orcs and goblins has well surpassed its limits.

Then, just fly toward the spot we talked about. You pick the path. I’m going to rest.

Are you asking me or telling me?

Groaning as Pammon regained altitude, Kaen patted his friend's neck before leaning back in his saddle and lying flat along his ridge.

Do you mind if I sleep for a little bit?

Oh, I don’t mind. I just wanted to make sure that I got the same treatment as Ava.

Sometimes, I think you get the better treatment. Besides, Amaranth and Glynnis always listen to you.

Pammon began to thrum, shaking violently as he flew.

I’m sorry. Are we talking about the same two female dragons? They don’t ever listen to me. Every discussion turns into a battle of wills, and I never win, even when I get my way.

But it always looked like –

Trust me, I never win. I often envy how you and Ava discuss things, and you always come out ahead.

It was Kaen’s turn to laugh as he lay against Pammon’s back, shaking his head.

I guess we both don’t get our way… Does Hess…

At the same time, both started to laugh, Pammon thrumming louder and Kaen starting to tear up slightly.

It is a good thing we can escape for a few days.

You did see how Amaranth acted when I left. Needless to say, had Glynnis been there, I’m not sure she wouldn’t have come with us.

But someone needed to guard the eggs since we weren’t sure how long we would be gone.

Exactly!

Both of them said nothing for a moment as Pammon reached the altitude he would fly at. Beneath them, the world came alive as the sun appeared in the east.

We should appreciate the fact both of us are suffering together. Not that I would have it any other way.

I can’t imagine having two babies soon… the thought of two egglings…

Pammon shuddered, his spine lurching momentarily as it traveled through him.

I’ll do my best to spoil them like you will someday spoil mine.

We are in trouble, aren’t we?

Yes, Pammon…. Yes, we are.