Scales and Honor: Emerald Secrets
Chapter 12: One curtain revealed
The horse dragons brought the group across the fields at a brisk gallop. The rise and fall of Arcturus’ shoulders a rather soothing pace as the red dragon practically snoozed in the afternoon sun. Who knew the green brothers were so good at emulating horses? Maybe they could do it more often. A mischievous smile came to his snout, mind brimming with future jabs.
In no time at all they had come to the fort’s dull grey walls. Least twice as size of himself at full height. He narrowed his eyes, catching the signs of little magical lines, signs of magical creation. The stone shifted to a towering wooden gate, wide as the dragon’s wings and properly thick enough to deflect his claws. Above such a imposing gate were two towers on either side, with thick, stone, battlements to deflect attacker’s arrows and the like. Within these battlements were two guards each, with full plate armor and barbota helmets that shined in the sun. They already had energy crossbows unslung, but not yet pointed in their direction.
Veledar tightened his hold on Arcturus’ neck, letting out a hushed hiss.
One of the silver guardian’s undid the latch on their helmet , swinging it to reveal his worn face. The grizzled looking man had a large scar over his left eye, and thick stubble garbed the lower portion of his jaw. He looked like was snarling as he held his energy crossbow with one hand, while his companion simply leaned his crossbow over a shoulder, waiting for a cue to use it rather than jump to conclusions like his more apprehensive friend.
Veledar figured the gryphons had seen Arcturus' tabard, which might have explained the nervous yet not clearly hostile stance of the guards.
"Lucky dey not shootin at us," Merlia whispered.
"Who goes there?" the first of the guards, the one with his face mask off, shouted. Veledar could see spittle fly from the man’s mouth. He wrinkled his muzzle in response.
"Arcturus Lund!" Arcturus shouted, "Paladin of Lumara!"
Veledar watched the man look nervously to the armored one, whispering something that he could not quite catch from this distance. The man then turned back and jabbed a finger at Merlia and Lyndis in turn.
"And what about them? They from Lumara too? Does’na look like it."
"We're his hired bodyguards!" Lyndis shouted. "The Paladin here wanted to go through dangerous territory, where every additional set of eyes and arms matters."
Once again, the man turned to the one with his visor down, whispered something yet again, and then turned back to face them.
'Why not arrive by airship, milord? It seems like the safest and easiest option to travel!"
"I don’t put much faith in such constructs," Arcturus replied with a grin. "I prefer the feel of an animal carrying you from one destination to another."
The guard turned around and waved at something—or someone—behind the gate that Veledar couldn’t see.
"What are you here for, sir? It is most strange to see a paladin this far out, and whose arrival is unannounced!"
"To burn the fort down," Veledar whispered, barely able to hold back a snicker. Arcturus held up a hand and covered his snout, silencing him for a moment.
"One of the businesses I have in the area is to inspect your facility," Arcturus shot back, just as Veledar moved his snout around the hand.
"Inspection?" the man replied, obviously confused. "We were not told about any inspection!"
"That's why it’s a surprise," Veledar whispered, rolling his eyes.
'That's why it’s a surprise!" Arcturus borrowed his wit for his own purposes.
"Hey, that's what I said!" Veledar nipped the human’s ear. "If you’re just going to copy me, at least let me handle the conversation!"
"And here I thought you’d feel flattered," Arcturus replied in a hushed whisper, grabbing the dragon and pulling him away from his ear.
“In that case, can you give us a few hours to verify your identity and the reason for your visit?" the man yelled, "You understand ri..."
"Ah, where in the bloody bog have my wits fled? You must have had a long and arduous journey, and here I am, talking your ears off. Please, come inside and disregard my crude manners," the guard suddenly continued, turning once again to give a few quick waves to the others inside the fort.
Veledar turned to see Lyndis holding up her left hand in a cupping motion, making sure to stay at an angle that the other guard wouldn’t notice. She was muttering something under her breath. Some sort of spell, maybe.
“It is no matter. Like I always say, all is well when it ends well,” Arcturus smiled, looking rather proud of himself, clearly unaware of his companion’s assistance.
If Veledar had to guess the spell Lyndis had used, he would have bet that it was a charm meant to manipulate a person’s emotions, one that either relieved his apprehension or flared his guilt at keeping a paladin of Lumara waiting. They remained outside of the fort for a few minutes longer before a smaller door on the side of the gate opened.
"And yet I must wait ever the longer to burn this place.," Veledar groaned in disapproval.
“You will have your chance. Patience is a virtue, isn’t it?” The paladin patted his horned head like a placated dog. Veledar snapped at his fingers for the trouble. He was no dog.
"Just head inside and Bor will lead your horses to the stables." The guard saluted Arcturus before once again fastening his visor on his helmet. Arcturus returned the salute, and Veledar decided to pay it back to Arcturus for stealing his jape and joined in and offered his own salute with a wing talon.
"You are going to get us caught," Arcturus whispered as Lyyreth started walking towards the gate.
"If things go wrong, you have three dragons eager to aid you!"
Arcturus’ jaws tensed. "That doesn't mean we should not be careful."
"And careful we shall be. I will try to refrain from doing anything that might ruin this totally made up plan of yours," He gave Arcturus a sly grin, hissing in delight as the human returned it and simply rolled his eyes.
Veledar turned his snout back towards a smaller door that had opened in the large gate. One that must have been for smaller parties such as themselves. Standing near the door was apparently the guard named Bor. He was a balding human, wearing a soiled tabard with various unknown liquids and smudges of grease or dirt. Clearly, they didn’t want to keep up appearances.
"I take it you’re Bor?" Arcturus willed Lyyreth over. The vigilant eyes traveling, from his soot colored hair to his dirt covered boots.
“That I am sir," Bor dipped his head in respect. "Thousand pardons for the appearance, sir. Paladins seldom travel this far out from the capital. Less so for surprise inspections."
"Sometimes they do, Bor. Am I not living proof of that?" Arcturus snapped, maintaining an air of command as well as thunder in his voice. Veledar started snickering to himself. It was hard not to picture Arcturus as a dragon right now, given his demeanor. The man even recoiled from his presence, as if from a dragon, taking the necessary few steps back as to not invade his personal space.
"Well then, Bor. You know what your assignment is. I suggest you take very good care of these horses.," Arcturus patted Lyyreth on his neck, causing the dragon to give a loud snort. “They can be quite temperamental at times.”
“Of…of course I will, sir. I’ll treat them as if they were my own!" Bor gulped audibly, cheeks turning a shade of crimson. He then turned and led them through the fort, walking at a much quicker pace than usual, eager to get out from under Arcturus’ gaze as soon as possible. Disinterested in the human’s cliché nervousness, Veledar decided to look around at the numerous buildings within the fort, all made of dark brown wood, topped by gray, triangle-shaped roofs. Banners of brown hung from them, depicting the golden rampart gryphon of Lumara. Noticing Veledar’s interest in the human architecture, Arcturus offered him brief explanations as to what each building represented as they passed them. Veledar absorbed the information like a sponge, having given them no real thought beside their flammable properties. First was the barracks, where the soldier’s slept and relaxed from the wearies of their station. The dragon watched the tired looking people, fidgeting atop his human perch. He was safe right? The alarm hadn’t been raised about him. The dragon sighed, curling his tail around the paladin’s neck and taking a few soothing breaths to calm the ever quickening of his heart.
Best not worry them too much. Perhaps they think he was a simple familiar. Just a small, harmless familiar. At least until things would go south. Then, they would be in for the surprise of their life.
"Aviary," Arcturus pointed out next, pointing to the tall, dome-shaped structure that housed the gryphons. “Gryphons are sociable creatures, so housing them together helps alleviate their loneliness and stress. The conditions may not be ideal, but soldiers need orders, not comfort.”
Veledar looked up to find a grey gryphon lying down on the wooden spires flat top, watching them with his sharp, green eyes. The kitty bird followed them the entire time they were within eye shot of the thing, vigilant.
"That noisy, rectangular building is the armory. You will find it active at all times, be it peace or war, equipping the soldiers here or the ones in the nearest city. The recreational hall is on the far left, next to the inn, and behind are a set of latrines. I don’t suppose you want me to explain its purpose."
Veledar wrinkled his snout, hacking in disgust into Arcturus' gambeson.
"Oh, get over it. At least my kind has a designated place to unburden ourselves of our bodily needs instead of finding thick patches of grass or foliage."
"What is dat, lad?" Merlia’s voice broke Arcturus’ concentration, surprising Veledar as well that she allowed Arcturus to drone on without interrupting him once.
"That…would be a prison. Isn’t that so, Bor?" Arcturus asked, pointing him to a rather small looking building. Hardly more than a single room it must have been, made of chipped and scratched stone. If anything, this looked to be the oldest part of the fort! Beneath him, Arcturus’ concerned shutter put him on edge. What was so concerning with what looked like an entrance to a mine?
"Quite right, sir," Bor said, turning his head to look back to Arcturus, "It’s a bit unkempt, but I reckon prisoners hardly need comfort. Do you wish to see it? An actual paladin might put some scare into them wretches and bring some truthfulness about."
“That…isn’t why I am here," Arcturus sought to put as much distance between him and that vile place. Possibly his was not ready to face it just yet. Veledar frowned as he remembered their first conversation about it, and how Lyndis had yelled at him. He could almost feel the paladin's heart sink at how callous Bor sounded.
Arcturus fell silent after that until they arrived in front of a stable. It had many stalls for the horses, with Veledar spying at least six more of the animals from within. Outside the grey wooden structure was a rather large stack of hay. Arcturus dismounted Lyyreth and led him to a small enclosure at the front of the stables, one that already had two white horses within. He patted the horse’s head and guided him into it.
"Behave," Veledar called to Lyyreth in a mocking tone, who merely glanced at him and snorted in approval. “Or you won’t get any oats at all.” He smiled, showing off all his white teeth, flicking his teeth against Arcturus’ neck. He tilted his favor to the human, only getting a withering look.
“Could say the same to you. Keep it up and you’ll remain here.”
He rolled his eyes, patting the human’s chin with a claw. “And it’s adorable you’d think I’d let you.”
That done, Arcturus remained on the spot, undoubtedly brooding about the prison they spotted earlier. The color on his face had yet to return, his eyes absently darting between the horses.
"What’s the matter, Arcturus?" Veledar whispered into his ear. He hoped the man wasn’t taking it too hard. Even if what they did was distasteful, that had no bearing on the man himself.
"All these years, I've helped set up places like this one here," Arcturus replied after he looked back to make sure Bor was out of earshot. Thankfully, the man’s heightened manners kept him at bay, making Veledar chuckle at how respect between the ranks of humans worked.
"Instead of schools and places of learning, I have helped set up interrogation prisons." Arcturus ran his hands through his brown hair and took a deep breath. "I joined the military to help protect the defenseless innocents and to talk sense into the assailants. When defeated, humans are willing to accept any demand if it helps them avoid a capital punishment, and for a time, I believed I was doing what was right. Instead, the people that surrendered ended up in places like this one."
Lyndis brought Cordenth over and led him into the pen as well, her eyes meeting Arcturus’. Veledar almost expected her to give him an “I told you so” look, or maybe rub it in his face. However, that never happened.
"Well, we came here to do a bloody job. Best we pick up our trousers and get to it," she whispered, then she suddenly raised her voice. "You okay sir? Looking a little pale there! Was it Bor’s appearance?" Veledar chuckled as the rogue tossed the nervous guard a grin, and the man instantly went about rubbing at his tabard with his fingers.
"Just fine, Lyndis. Truly. It's just a lot to think about and process all at once." Arcturus sighed, marching over to the guard who was still busy tending to his soiled tabard. “Now that the horses are stabled, I would like a tour of the facility if you please."
Bor stiffened as he eyed Veledar. "Is that thing ‘round your neck joining us?" Bor gestured with a greasy finger. It surprised him that it took so long for someone to mention something about him. He was honestly a tad disappointed it didn't happen at the gate. Was he really below notice?
Probably were too busy pissing themselves at being inspected by Arcturus.
"That thing around his neck happens to be a dragon that you don’t want to confuse for a mere familiar!" Veledar growled at Bor, who scratched his head in confusion, smiled, then burst into laughter.
"Really? It talks? That's adorable!" Bor then softened his voice and spoke as if he would to a child, "I do not mean to offend you, but I never met dragons of your size."
"I have never met your like either! It’s all because of this human, who has captured me and keeps me as his slave." Veledar pretended to faint on Arcturus' shoulders. "He takes me everywhere with him, including the latrine where he unloads his bodily needs!"
"Do you mind?" Arcturus hissed, color returning to his cheeks. “Apologies Bor. Social skills aren’t his forte."
“Sometimes he can be a real arse!” Lyndis nudged at Merlia, who just chuckled along, making a comment about how small he was. Even the two horses started whinnying in delight. Veledar just eyed them all with cerulean daggers. He’d pay them all back when this was over, mark his words.
"Oh, sure, no problem," Bor gave Veledar another smile as he took a few steps back. "Should show him off around to the men. They would get a kick out of his sharp wit. Though, is he truly a dragon?"
"Truly, but he didn't eat right, so he never grew larger than you see here," Lyndis said, barely able to stifle her laughter.
"Hey!" Veledar hissed, turning his snout back towards her to bare his teeth, even flaring out his wings in a violent display. “Take that back!”
"He thinks he’s intimidating. It's so adorable!"
If his eyes could kill, then the rogue would be six feet under. She, however, just smiled and laughed at his little display. With an undignified huff he flopped around Arcturus’ neck. Lyndis as Arcturus started to follow Bor around for the tour.
"Take it easy, Veledar. You’re just playing a role, as do us all. Might as well enjoy it," Arcturus said, patting the dragon on his scales. “This is only temporary, so make the best of it while it lasts."
“Easy for you to say, oh radiant paladin of Lumara who people hold in awe, you don’t have to play the malnourished dragon!" Veledar spat, then ran his snout down onto Arcturus' gambeson. "Doesn't make me enjoy being smaller than all of you." No sooner than he said that, his head perked in sudden realization. “I can go inside with you now!"
"Yes. Thanks for changing the plan. Hopefully you don't have any more in store for me."
"You think I'm going to let you go into our enemies’ fortress and get hurt? You’re my way into your king’s castle!" Veledar exclaimed, playfully smacking Arcturus with his claw across his cheek. "Shame on you."
Arcturus rolled his eyes, and Veledar watched him fight the urge to scold him. However, Veledar knew he was being cute right that second, and the human could not find it within himself to do so.
Bor gestured them to follow as he led them towards the barracks. "Figured I should first show you around the place in which we spend most of our time," Bor wiped his forehead with the back of his hand. "Though I should first inform the captain of your visit."
“Don’t,” Arcturus moved in front of him to block his attempt. "It’s a surprise inspection after all.”
“As you say. You tell him that when he directs his ire at me sir.”
“Will do.” Arcturus rolled his hand, “Now if you would so kindly.”
Bor led them to the wooden door of the barracks. Upon its rough wooden surface was a crude picture of a gryphon, with barracks spelled out in golden letters. Bor opened the door, the stiff thing emitting a nasty creak. Inside the barracks were bunks that lined the walls, neatly arranged and covered in orderly off-white sheets. Trunks sat at the foot of every bed for personal belongings. Bor led them through the area that was relatively spotless, save for the stray article of clothing.
"See? We’re not an unruly sort ‘round here, sir paladin," Bor smiled at Arcturus, showing off his few missing teeth in the process.
"Not particularly tidy either," Lyndis added, pointing out a shirt that was tossed on the floor.
"Most of us are," Bor tried to save face as his face started to turn red. "But an errant shirt is hardly cause for concern. Say, which place would you like to inspect next, sir?"
“Aye, but the dirt upon yer tabard would be.” Merlia was quick to smile and thrust a finger. “Looks like ya dragged yerself through the mud. Do a bit of wrestling?”
“None of the sort!” Bor started to rub his tabard with his hands, cursing under his breath as Arcturus contemplated their next destination.
The paladin was tapping his foot, rubbing his jaw as those green eyes traveled about the area.
"Can you bring us to the captain? I figure it's time I went over my inspection with him…personally."
Veledar watched Bor gulp again upon hearing the last word. He was surprised the human did not soil himself that second.
"Of course, sir." Bor turned towards the exit, tripping and almost falling over in the process, had he not regained his balance at the last moment. Veledar erupted with hissing laughter, causing Bor’s face to turn brighter than the dragon’s scales. The sweating man led them past the towering aviary, where that same damn gryphon from before sat. When those intense emeralds gazed upon him the dragon to retorted with his pink tongue. The gryphon gave no reply to his gesture, only thumping its grey tuft tail against the wood nonchalantly.
Veledar shifted his focus to Lyndis and Merlia, who were busy staring at the towers erected around the fort. They were most likely interested in the the energy canons mounted atop the battlements, probably thinking of ways to disable them, should the situation require such course of action. Veledar figured that, out of the two, Lyndis would be better at shutting down the cannons, given her training as a thief and all. Course then again, Merlia could certainly mess things up.
He turned back to face Bor as he heard the human stumble yet again, this time on a patch of brown earth. Veledar only snickered this time, more surprised than amused at just how clumsy he turned out to be. These were the type of people employed at this prison? Truly the most devilish of places. If anyone else was like this man, than scaring the piss out of them was going to be easy.
Veledar switched his attention to the building Bor led them to. It was made of stone, much to Veledar’s dismay, and had the same magical cracks present in the walls. It had one window that he could see, of dust speckled glass. Bor strolled up to the door and opened it with a loud announcement.
"A paladin on an unannounced inspection wishes to see you, sir! Are you composed?"
“Yes, yes. Bring them in,” the gruff voice of the captain sounded from within the keep.
Bor waved for them to come over and enter the building. Once inside, Veledar got a good look of this man that was referred to as the captain. He sat at a large wooden desk piled with stacks of paperwork. He wore a simple off-white tunic with a brown tabard with clay stitchings. His hand casually swept through his short black hair in thought shortly before his brown eyes lifted from the paperwork he was currently signing with a large blue feathered quill. The man raised his head to reveal that he had a large mustache under his nose, one that looked as if a large, bushy caterpillar had simply decided to take a nap there.
"Do come in, ole chaps!" the man said, dropping his quill and standing up to greet them.
It immediately became apparent that he was much shorter than Veledar's companions. In fact, he was much shorter than all the mortals he had seen walking around the fort for that matter. Veledar figured he barely measured half his height while in his true form and with his head held high. The man stretched his hand towards Arcturus, which Arcturus promptly shook.
"Always nice to meet a paladin, although a tad bit surprising, I must admit!" Veledar saw Arcturus try to remove his hand after a few moments, but the captain seemed to hold firm and extend the handshake for a few more awkward moments.
"Name’s Bertram Therus! However, you probably already knew that. So far out here, us folks tend to trade formalities for familiarity."
"Arcturus Lund. Pleasure to make your acquaintance." Arcturus then pointed at Merlia and Lyndis, introducing them in kind.
"And who is this little bugger?" Therus asked, getting his face a little too close for Veledar's liking, who attempted to ward him off with a hiss. “Some sort of winged dwarf lizard?”
"Mind where you stick your nose!" he barred his teeth and thrashed his tail against Arcturus' armor with a small ding.
The captain’s eyes shone with fascination. "Oh, it’s simply so cute! Where did you get it? We could use some pets like him around!" Therus said as he attempted to touch Veledar with one of his big fingers. “Or maybe a mascot. Does wonders for morale!”
Veledar recoiled from his approach, snapping a warning at him. "Touch me and I’ll bite it clean off!"
Bertram quickly withdrew his finger, smiling wryly as he focused back on Arcturus. "Feisty creature, that. So, what is this inspection of yours about, my boy? We don’t usually receive much attention from higher ups out here." The man chuckled. “Very well off the books in most regards.”
"It’s more of a general inspection rather than a focus on individual aspects. Someone of great power has their eye on this facility and might very well become its patron if my assessment satisfies them."
"The King?" Bertram gasped, "Oh, how I have wanted some much-needed help and resources for running things around here! The king’s patronage could solve so many of our problems! Please tell me it’s so!" He eagerly clapped his palm on Arcturus' pauldrons.
"I am not at liberty to say, of course," Arcturus drew a few steps back and out of the captain’s reach. “What sort of paladin would I be if I broke the simple vow of secrecy?”
Veledar liked how Arcturus was able to still tell the truth but somehow not do so at the same time. Was a very dragon thing to do.
"Well, I certainly hope we impress! Let me know what you’d like to start with. I’ll make sure to include the proper data for everything as well." Bertram then looked past Veledar and the others, signaling something at Bor. "Gods’ breath man, don’t just stand there like a glorified pylon. Go to the kitchen and have them whip up something for our guests!"
"This should not take that long, captain," Arcturus held up a hand to dissuade his generosity. “I appreciate the offer, but we all have our duty.”
"But you must be weary from the long journey on horseback. Let us get ya a meal afore of the inspection. You’ll absorb the information much better.”
"He’s right, ya know! I feel like I be dyin of hunger!" Merlia spouted out, "I also didn’t have a good drink in a dog’s age!"
"Very well, then,"
Bor immediately ran off to the kitchens to relay Bertram's word. The captain, on the other hand, guided them out of his building and back out into the fort.
“Since time is of the essence, I figure we might proceed with the inspection while the food cooks,”
This time, when they started walking around the place, they had Bertram as their guide instead of the soiled little guard Bor. Although the man had an interesting mustache, Veledar was just a little disappointed he did not trip, stumble, or show other quirks along the way. The entire time, Arcturus had the man engaged in conversation about military strategies, tactics and technicalities, like the defenses of the fort, weapons able to bear, and how many guards were stationed here.
Bertram revealed that there were forty guards stationed at the fort at any given time, and they had rotating shifts on every tower to keep them fully alert, day and night. They had three gryphons that lived here to keep the place from having any surprise visitors, and Bertram didn’t waste the chance to brag about the four energy cannons, boasting that they could probably defend against one of the smaller airships Lumara had if they were forced to. Without skipping a beat, he revealed they had enough energy crossbows for all the men stationed here, including some new models that Bertram beamed at the opportunity to unveil. He promised to put on a demonstration before the day was over.
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"Forgive me for changing topics, but how many prisoners do you keep locked down in the actual prison?" Arcturus asked as they passed the entrance to the place. Veledar watched Bertram's eyes fall upon it, his features hardening as he turned to face the paladin.
"We have about twenty inmates at any given time, depending on who gets sent here. Sometimes it’s a bit more, sometimes it’s less. They are all an unsavory sort, so I don’t suppose you’d like to take a glance at them. In that case, that’s the end of the tour!" Bertram clasped his hands together, a happier look about them. “Maybe they brought out the good foodstuffs. Real treat for our esteemed guests! You must absolutely taste the quail I had shipped in from Entis. It is divine, paladin. Literally melts in the mouth!"
"You never showed us the detention area," interrupted Lyndis, pointing to the entrance they had stopped in front of.
"Right you are, miss Lyndis, but you really wouldn't want to go in there." Bertram brushed his mustache with a finger, a bit agitated by this change of plans. "It’s not the sort of place you wish to visit. Specially not for a lady."
The rogue crossed her arms, an amber fire brimming about her eyes. “That so?”
"Be that as it may,” Arcturus interjected, stepping between the two. “ Tis my duty to your possible benefactor to inform them of everything," "You wouldn’t want a minute detail or technicality to deny you their patronage. Isn’t that right, captain?" Arcturus raised an eyebrow causing the man started to squirm.
"Aye paladin, it's just that… you know from your line of work how these things are. Inappropriate for everybody without military experience," Bertram added, eying Arcturus’ companions.
"How so?"
"Well, paladin, the prisoners are tortured for information. It can be a tad......messy at times, and loud. Very, very loud. Sends shivers down even my spine sometimes."
Veledar winced at the mention of torture. He was no stranger to killing someone to defend himself. Claw, tooth, tail, fire, spell, he had done it all over the course of his life. However, it had always been quick, painless, efficient. He wrinkled his snout at the idea of someone deliberately inflicting that pain on others and drawing out the agony for their gain.
"Nevertheless, it is a necessary evil for thoroughness’ sake." Veledar watched Arcturus gulp, and felt some of his muscles in his neck tense. Perhaps the human shared his thoughts on torture as well. Then, he shook his head as if to dispel that foolish, ignorant thought. Of course, Arcturus disliked torture. What sane person would?
"So, what do you do with the ones that are finished being......interrogated?" Arcturus spat, lips curling as if he’d tasted curdled milk.
"They are taken away by an airship which arrives when we request for it. Some mages arrive, clear us out and head down into the prison." Bertram himself seemed to be uncomfortable talking about the subject as he continued, "whatever they do down there must be awful though." Bertram visibly shuttered at the mere thought. "The screams that are let out are just…too horrible to describe."
"Wait.” Lyndis’ brow rose, “you don't witness the mages preform whatever it is they’re doing? Are you sure they are even taking the people?"
"Well no,” Bertram started to fidget “they have us wait until they’re finished. Surely, they must take them though, for there are no bodies left behind!"
“Certainly odd,” Veledar reckoned, a sentiment Arcturus seemed to share as the human followed the captain with heavy steps. The emerald fires lit in his paladin’s eyes bringing a bead of sweat atop the captain’s brow.
"Yes, Veledar it is. Mages aren’t usually employed for such deeds," Arcturus hissed back in a whisper. Clearly at wits end with mere hints of what this place contained.
"Well, if you want to go down and see the prisoners, let’s get this over with," grumbled Bertram dragging his legs to the entrance. "Don't say I didn't warn you, and don’t blame me for the state of these wretches. Just doing my job, same as you."
Arcturus followed, while Veledar prepared himself for what lay ahead. Through the door was a long set of stone stairs that spiraled down towards a dark abyss. Clearly the building around it was just for show, as it only took a quick glance to realize that there was nothing else to it, they could go but down. The dragon’s head shifted back in forth, bewildered at such a structure. Murmurs rose from his companions, clearly sharing his thoughts on the matter.
Bertram grabbed a torch from a sconce in the wall and lit it, the flames casting a dim, ominous light down the steps.
"Something feels wrong here," The dragon shivered, the air felt thick. Like a heavy fog had swept about the area, with it came a chill. Like a winter gale that drove an icy spike to the bone. His tail rose, followed by every nerve in his spine. His mother had warned him of such things before. "Dark magic was here."
“You sure?” Came Arcturus’ reply, almost as if the dragon would lie at something like this. He narrowed his eyes at those troubled emeralds, nodding his head with a resounding snort.
“Yes.”
With tentative steps the human followed Bertram down, with only the sound of their boots to distract them from the eeriness of this desolate landscape. At every step of the way, the man’s face was painted with worry, like he was imagining the thousands of terrible things that could be waiting for them.
And all of them sanctioned and performed in the name of Lumara. The people that he’d served. Surely he didn’t blame himself for another’s deeds? But the longer he stared at that troubled face he wasn’t too sure.The dragon tightened around him. Not painfully, but reassuringly. "Stay strong, Arcturus," he whispered into the man’s ear, trying to play it like he was nibbling it. "Whatever lies down there, it isn’t your fault, nor your responsibility."
“And yet it stirs in my gut like the wildest of storms. I’m culpable of this place, even in my ignorance.”
Veledar rolled his eyes, flopping to the man’s shoulder. Silly human.
Bertram stopped in front of yet another door. This one had a black frame and a large copper colored knocker. The captain grabbed it with his free hand and knocked three times, each one a resounding thing that seemed to bounce off the walls and make Veledar’s claws shake.
"Well, ain't this the happiest place ye could be," Merlia grumbled from behind. “Jus makes a smile spring ta my face.”
“Not used to prisons, dearie?" Lyndis chuckled to break the dreary atmosphere. “They’re not supposed to be.”
"Not like these ones, I’m not. Dwarf prisons be better. First off, we got more lights. Second off, it be warmer. And third off—"
"Shh," Arcturus held a hand to his mouth, cutting off the dwarf.
"Did he just shush me?" Merlia snapped to Lyndis, frowning. "Ta bastard shh'd me!"
The black door opened with a thud as wood hit the stone wall of the next room. The group followed Bertram inside to find four guards sitting around an ale soaked wooden table, playing cards. The small room was lit by two lanterns on opposite walls, and it seemed to be only half the dragon’s wingspan in size, with signs of magical tampering on the walls. The guards were an elf, half orc, human, and a gnome. Upon laying eyes on Arcturus they sprung up like fire had been lit beneath their rears. Each one snapped off a salute, and made a hasty greeting.
"As you were," The man replied casually, the guards settling back into their chairs, grateful for the lack of questions.
"This lot guards the exit. They may not look like it, but they could stop the lot of you from making your escape as well." Bertram chuckled, which made the dragon scoff. Four mere humans against him? In this man’s deluded dreams. He swished his tail, eyeing each one, picturing how quick he’d have them beneath his paws.
"And assuming the prisoners would somehow make it past them, they’d be maimed, malnourished and exhausted, a prey too sluggish for our gryphons."
"Can you show us some of the prisoners?" Arcturus asked calmly, but the dragon could hear the building worry in his voice. Even if the man wouldn’t admit it. Again the dragon coiled around him, hoping to quell the ever quickening of his heart. “I want to see what sort of monsters require such intricate prison and the attention of mages as well."
"Well, right this way then, paladin," The half-orc guard rose with a gruff voice. Striding to the furthest wall to pluck up a ring of keys off a peg on the wall. He fumbled with the keys for a length of time, trying to find the right one. They sat in awkward silence, staring at the apologizing green man. Merlia seemed to have a bit of fun with it, whistling while she tapped her foot. He was just about to sigh, complain about this lack of agency when the guard finally finished his search.
"Found it!" the half orc exclaimed holding aloft a large brass key like it was a treasured gem. With a sly grin the guard touched the tip to one of the walls, mentioning they were going to see something neat. From the key came a jagged line of glowing runes, forming the shape of a door. The stone shook and quaked, sliding sideways instead of in. The other’s gasps made the dragon roll his eyes. His horde’s door was more impressive. When it was finished, he could see a typical jail cell area. It was larger than the room they were in now, possibly three lengths of his wings, but still not tall enough for his true form. Cells lined the entire length, seemingly made out of cast iron. The dreary place was lit with magical torches, casting long shadows from the jail’s occupants.
Then came the smell. The dragon wheezed as the other’s gagged. The tail thrashing smell of urine, sweat, and excrement all mixed into an overpowering odor of the worst kind. He was burying his nose into Arcturus’ gambeson, trying desperately to just smell the human. Even the horses would be better than this! He squeezed shut his eyes as they watered, stitching himself to the wool cloth.
“I was not ready for today.” Arcturus wheezed, stumbling to one of the walls. Clearly the man was trying to stop himself from retching all over the floor. “You weren’t kidding.”
"Thor’s beard," Merlia coughed, pulling out a cloth to cover her nose. "That smells worse dan an ox’s ass! What’s this place? The latrine?”
"Tried to warn you, but you insisted to see—and smell this place—yerself." Bertram sneered, gesturing for Arcturus to follow along, showing little signs of discomfort. It seemed humans adapted to everything, even despicable jobs such as this one. “Sadly one does get used to the smell after awhile. Trust me though, it pains me to admit such a thing.”
"Carry on. I need to see everything," The paladin struggled to say, following at a sluggish pace.
"Very well," Bertram banged his scabbard against the bars of the nearest cell. "Stand up straight everyone! Let your better get a good look of your wretches!"
Veledar glanced at the people he was talking to in the cells. Elves, dwarves, humans, wolven All races and sexes could be found among them. Dirt and grime covered all their skin and fur, a painting of mortal misery. Despite their differences one thing united them. They all wore the same look of defeat, etched permanently on their sullen faces. In unison they rose, standing tall for the group.
“There we go," Bertram tossed Arcturus a sympathetic glance. "Let me remind you, paladin, that I did warn you at every step of the way to turn back."
Arcturus’ neck tightened as he glanced at each tired, worn, scared, bruised, and dried blood covered face in turn. Veledar could make out the moment he realized that even if the Emerald Lady wanted them, it would have been better than this. Would this be the moment that the man lost himself and sprung into action? The dragon flicked his tail, readying his claws. How could these mortals treat themselves in such a manner? Not even the emerald lady treated them badly. A being that held herself loftily above mortals and their kin. Never had he wanted to burn a place to the ground more than this.
"I am aware of what you’ve been saying," The paladin finally struggled to say, composing himself with a heavy breath. "Now show me this torture room of yours."
"So, what do they stand accused of?" Lyndis snapped, voice as sharp as a blade, gesturing to the large mass of suffering surrounding them. “What demands this lack of care?”
"They are thieves, enemy soldiers, rapists, smugglers, and all the rest that is foul in the world." Bertram walked a few steps ahead, pointing to several as he handed them their titles. "I feel no sympathy for the lot, not when the work we do here keeps the kingdom safe."
"And that lets you sleep at night? Knowing what is right here, beneath your feet?"
"It does, madame! Were you a soldier, you wouldn’t have asked such a baseless question. Everybody who serves their kingdom accepts the duty bestowed upon them. In some cultures, what we do here can be perceived as immoral, but no innocent ends here, madame. Only the accused.”
Veledar was about to point out that he’d been innocent yet drew the country’s ire, but Arcturus silenced him with a hand. He snapped at the man’s fingers, growling deep in his tiny throat. Bertram led them over to a far wooden door that had a bar across it. It sat between two other doors that looked exactly like the middle one, minus the bar.
"Lady Lyndis!" a half-naked man shouted from one of the cells, reaching as far as he could from the bars and snatching her cloak.
The dragon reared up, flaring out his tiny wings with a hiss. Even Arcturus went for his sword, but Lyndis held up a hand, stopping them in their tracks.
“No, wait,” Her eyes were wide, staring endlessly into the man’s pained ones.
"He was looking for you, Lyndis!" The man whined, wincing as Bertram demanded he let go and smacked him with his scabbard. Though he didn’t relent, he clung on as if for life. It took the half-orc to come running, smashing the man’s arm with a dull thud. When the prisoner had recoiled with a pained grunt, Bertram spun around on his heels, happily clasping his hands together.
"I assume you’ve seen enough by now to know the rest of the story, and the dinner should be ready as well. Let us turn from the scum of the earth to more pleasant topics," Bertram casually started towards the door once more. “And you should try my vintage wine from Whitedell. Pairs ever so nicely with the quail.”
Lyndis used that opportunity to slip up to Arcturus. "I know that man," she whispered, covering her mouth with the back of her hand.
"What ya need is not dinner, but a few dwarven stink clearers!" Merlia shouted, walking towards Bertram. "Burn the whole smell out in a jiffy. One glorious explosion of dwarven ingenuity.” She made a little explosion expression with her hands, laughing as the guards gave her a queer look.
With Merlia engaging Bertram in conversation, Lyndis raised her voice slightly. "He was one of Gerald's men... right, I never mentioned that," Lyndis frowned in realization of that fact.
“You’re the one who didn’t tell us princess.” Veledar hissed, thumping his tail sternly. “So don’t go getting all mad after the fact.” He held a claw to his chest, appearing as regal as he could be. “That’s why it’s best to not hide things from your companions.”
“Like your inability to resist boasting?” The rogue smirked, catching the dragon’s next boast in his throat.
“Hey!” He snarled, but before he could utter another word she continued.
"Anyway, he was a friend of mine.” She stared between the two, a look of desperation about her eyes. “You have to trust me when I say that we need to save him."
"What did he do?" asked Arcturus, raising a brow.
"He was a pegasus knight. If he came here…" Lyndis sighed, then started to stumble in her own words, "t-then my people are in big trouble. So plea... "
Arcturus held up a hand to silence her. "I trust you. How else would we have made it this far?"
"You really know how to ruin a convincing speech," Lyndis grinned.
"And I guess I’ll trust you," Veledar groaned, rolling his eyes in a dramatic fashion. “Even if you lied to us before….” He snapped to her with a grin. “Princess.”
If she had any ire of his use of her title, she didn’t show it, only sighing.
"So, what do you need?" Arcturus shifted, keeping track of how Merlia was phantom boxing to the collected guards. Most likely telling one of her outlandish tales.
"I just need a few minutes alone with that man. Find out what he knows about Gerald's whereabouts. Need to know what happened to my mate."
The man nodded."Don't you worry, Lyndis. Little red and I got this handled."
"Excuse me?” Veledar hissed. “ Little red? We’ll talk about that later.” The dragon snapped his teeth, stomping his claw. “Lyndis, don't believe him! He’s told me nothing!"
"Excuse me, Bertram?" Arcturus asked loudly after clearing his throat.
"Yes, paladin?" Bertram twitched slightly. “Coming along? As much as I enjoy the tale about….Gryphon brothels.” The man sneered, “Dinner is waiting for us I’m sure.”
"Lyndis here would like a few minutes alone with the prisoner that grabbed her."
"Oh, I see." Bertram said, a smile tugging at his meaty lips. "Going to put a little hurt on him for touching you, eh? Don't worry lass, I get it, I truly do. However,” Bertram rubbed his fingers together, the universal symbol for a bribe. “I may need a bit of compensation for my eyes to wander and ears to deafen.”
Arcturus sighed and took out five gold coins from his pouch, pressing them roughly into Bertram's hand.
"Thank you, good paladin. Now my dear, which was the one that grabbed you?"
Lyndis pointed to the man from before, who was currently still rubbing his arm where the club had struck him.
"First things first, we must set some ground rules. There is only one that truly matters, and that is not to kill or maim your prisoner beyond his capacity to interact with us. Leave some for the interrogators as well, eh?
Lyndis nodded in agreement, cracking her knuckles. “Don't worry, I don't bloody plan on it. Just gotta show him he focked up today."
Bertram waved the half-orc over to open the cell and pull the frightened man out by the scruff of his neck. The man gave a pained yelp as he was thrown into one of the other empty rooms. They all stepped inside while Merlia remained outside, already starting to chat it up again with the guards and Bertram.
"So wuts it like workin’ in a shit hole like dis?" The dwarf shouted, roughly smacking the pair on their backs. The door shut, just in time for the dragon to catch the pair wincing. He chuckled to himself, almost warbling in delight.
"Princess Lyndis!" the man cried as his arms wrapped tightly around her. “I thought we would never find you. After the kingdom surrendered, I feared the worst!"
"They surrendered?" Lyndis asked in disbelief.
"I thought you did not care for politics when you left, princess?" he asked, confusion embedded in his tired voice.
"I'm not, but surrender? Things must have gotten worse than I thought!"
"Days before your mother met with the Lumarian ambassador to discuss a treaty, she told me to find you. They didn’t seem to know your exact location in Lumara, but Gerald always seemed to have an idea."
"He had a sending stone," Lyndis replied softly, concern dripping from her words. "Do you know where he is?"
"H-he was taken to the lower chambers several days ago, princess. If he survived, he will be down there..." the man paused as his eyes widened in fear. "They never come back from down there, princess!" the man then hugged himself as he started shivering, shaking his head and muttering a series of blessings meant for her and for himself.
"Thank you," Lyndis hugged the shivering man and patted him on the back gently. "I am so sorry...."
Lyndis steeled herself and turned to Arcturus. "This is Harold. Harold, this is Arcturus, and the dragon coiled about his neck is the Crimson Sky. Outside, stalling the guards, is another friend of ours called Merlia.”
"A dragon?" gasped Harold, his eyes falling on Veledar’s diminutive form. The dragon rose his little head, swelled his chest. How the man’s eyes shown with wonder made a happy warmth spread about his scales. That all flew out the window when he started snickering, the warmth turning to flames. "That’s not…not a dragon. Small, too small," he swung his head from left to right as if to dispel the hopeful illusion that began to torment him with the promise of a life beyond those bars.
"I can get bigger, you rambling, incoherent monkey!" Veledar snarled, flaring his wings for good measure. "I have picked this size so that I may fit in this dungeon!"
"Oh, right, yes, of course, of course. I am sorry, Crimson Sky," Harold hung his head, knocking against his temples with his knuckles to get the craziness out of his head, undoubtedly. When he blinked his eyes again and his guests were still there, Harold turned back towards Lyndis. “I am truly sorry. My mind, it…it is no longer reliable. Not after the things he…them…”
Harold’s words came to a stop as the man performed the valiant effort of getting up on his two spindly, shaking legs. "What is the plan, milady? I presume you’re here to free us all? If so, what about the cannons on the walls? Surely we’ll not get bleedin far while they have us in sight!"
"Well, we had to improvise," A sly grin tugged at Arcturus’ lips. “We also have two more dragons stabled outside."
"T-two more dragons!" Harold gasped loud enough to almost attract unwanted attention. "Then…then this really is a rescue!" his balance wavered as his eyes clouded with tears, the frailty of his body and mind beginning to show. "I prayed to Fureen and Sartren, but I never thought...." Without warning, the madman hurled himself at Lyndis, hugging her so tight the coughed lightly.
"How m-many of your flight are still around?" gasped Lyndis in the tight grip of the man shortly before he freed her, muttering an apology under his breath.
"Only us, princess," Harold said. “The others were dragged kicking and screaming down below." Harold's eyes widened as he spoke, almost as if everything happened right before his eyes. An ominous shiver took hold of him, forcing him against the wall where he sank like an autumn leaf, drained of vitality. "I can still hear their screams, their pleas, their prayers. Never ending, never ceasing, always with me."
“Hold yourself onto the edge of sanity,” Lyndis advised him. “Like every nightmare, this too shall end.”
Veledar swung his tail against her shoulder to warn her as Bertram approached the door.
"Time’s up, lass!" Bertram yelled from the other side, banging against the bars with his sword’s scabbard for emphasis.
"Don't worry, I'm done here! “yelled Lyndis, giving Harold a quick nod of assurance. "Pull yourself together and be ready for this."
"I’ll…try," Harold replied, lunging forward to fall on his hands. “May the gods grace you with a thousand boons for your arrival..”
"I'm sorry for this," Lyndis whispered as she opened the door, seizing Harold’s wrist and tossed him to the floor in the main corridor, where she promtly kicked him in the gut."And take that, you swine!" Lyndis yelled, shoving a finger against the man’s bony brow. “Touch me again, and your balls are next, you hear me?”
"Yes milady, no touch, no touch anymore!" Harold shrieked, curling into a whimpering ball to add emphasis to their act. The half-orc just grabbed Harold once again by the scruff of his neck and dragged the man back into his cell, slamming the door shut with a grin.
"So now that your guard has got that out of her system, shall we continue?" Bertram gestured to the door leading upstairs. “Dinner? Wine? Tales of battles sure to lighten the mood?”
“You still havn’t shown us the torture room.” Veledar hissed, pacing around the paladin’s pauldrons. “Can’t weasel your way out of this one human.”
“I was speaking to the paladin. Not to you little lizard.”
Veledar buried the boiling blood down as he glared daggers at the little man. His tail flick was all he got out as Arcturus answered for him.
“And yet he speaks the truth.” The man gestured to Merlia, who’d taken a place at the guard’s table. “And it would appear my guard is already ahead of me.”
"Ya go on without me, lad! I am going to school these chumps at their own game!" she laughed, picking up a pair of cards. She wore a grin on her face as she gave Arcturus a wink. Clearly she was up here in case things went south.
"Wonderful." Bertram groaned, pulling himself to the door, the hard wood scraping against the stone loudly.
Veledar began his silent mantra of "Stay calm, stay calm, stay calm" as Arcturus followed, the tightness in his neck returning. The dragon could already picturing his hands balled into tight fists, shaking with a reserved fury.
Bertram warned them to turn back one more time as they arrived in front of yet another door at the bottom of the steps. Arcturus, of course, told him to open the door, causing Bertram to sigh and comply.
Veledar’s mind froze, barely able to process what his eyes registered. This didn’t look like any torture chamber he’d read about in stories. It was so caked in layers of fresh and dried blood that it looked to be more a butcher’s shop. A sadistic painter spreading crimson gore over the stone in worship of human misery. Too many torture devices surrounded them, from one designed to pull your limbs apart one by one, to one that jabbed a very long rod down your finger. There were instructions on the wall, detailing where to cut off limbs, and how to attach them using healing magic.
The dragon’s head felt heavy, practically spinning as the man below took a hesitant step. Phantom screams hung no doubt crying for help that never came in the air as the grotesque sight burned into the back of his mind. Lyndis remained silent as her face turned red, her several attempts to find words foiled by the stale iron scent and sight of unbearable torment. Arcturus merely tightened his grip, his jaw tightening like a vice. His eyes burned like emerald fires, practically sweeping around the room as if to set it ablaze.
"I…never expected your kind to do this to one another," Veledar muttered, his snout scanning the area, wrinkles deepening along its surface as his eyes met Bertram, who shrugged nonchalantly.
"These aren’t my kind, creature. Not anymore at least, for they renounced every shred of goodness they held before their arrival. Here is where everyone set on harming my wonderful country ends up, A worthy fate of such scum,"
Arcturus was quick to answer, his voice like that of hardened steel. “Aye, they may be criminals, but what do your methods say about us, hmm? How do you reckon they paint us?”
“I…I dunno, sir,” Bertram stammered, his nerve dying down. “I am just a pawn of the law. I’m not to question it, but execute it. Same as you, eh? But now that you’ve seen this place, I guess the inspection is finally over.”
"LYNDIS! By the goddess Sartren, is that you?" a ragged voice called out from a blood-caked, bruised man chained to a far wall. He was practically hidden behind a worn and cracked chair.
Lyndis gasped and sprinted to the man, kneeling and embracing him despite his sorry state.
"Gerald! I thought you might be...." Her voice died, her form shook, tears forming in her eyes.
"I had a job…to do… promised your mother… I'd find you." Gerald paused between words, wincing in pain from the effort.
"Take it easy," she offered her shoulder for him to rest his head against. “We’ll get you out of here. You’ll not stay like this one focken more second."
"Get him…out of here?" Bertram muttered to himself as if to convince him of the validity of her words before swiftly pulling his sword from his belt. "No, you aren’t!" he turned to Arcturus, his face a mixture between a scowl and a plea.
"Paladin, what is the meaning of this? You can’t just…appropriate prisoners for yourself without a warrant signed by one of the Lumarian generals!"
Arcturus drew his sword in subtle motion, swatting it away with a mere flick of the wrist. With a sneer the man set his blade to the captain’s throat. “And here I thought my word is good enough.”
“Yours? Maybe. Hers?” Bertram’s eyes skipped to Lyndis, laden with defiance. “Not a chance.”
Well if things were going to go wings up then he was going to join in. Veledar jumped off Arcturus’ shoulders, changing his size to that of a large dog, his snarl adding to Arcturus’ threat.
Arcturus growled. “Fall in line, comply with my request, and you will just be left short of a few prisoners. Not a bad trade for a patronage, eh?"
"There is no patronage, is there?" Bertram struggled against the blade, ignoring the shallow cut it drew on his neck. "You’re a thug. You and your despicable group and that runt," he kicked at Veledar like he would a dog.
The dragon elegantly swung out of his reach, barring his teeth as he advanced on the man with a wicked hiss. “I’d not do that again human.”
"Not a thug at all," Arcturus replied with a satisfied grin. "I am a paladin, just not of Lumara. Not when it represents this." He then landed a kick straight to the man’s chest that shoved him against a wall. Bertram landed with a pained thud as he hit the floor, and Veledar pinned him to the ground instantly, his claws digging enough into Bertram's chest to draw blood.
"We need this scum alive, don't we?" The dragon groaned, relishing the panicked look about the captain’s face. He wiggled his talons, making the man wince. “What was it that you called me? RUNT?”
"We need someone alive to send a message. Might as well be him,"
Bertram struggled again, forcing the dragon to press down further until a pained gasp was ripped from his throat. He snapped his jaws, making sure the squirming human got a good look of his sharpened teeth.
"I am not as merciful as Arcturus and far less susceptible to your tales of morality,"
"Fine, fine, I’ll…I’ll do whatever you want!" Bertram cried out. His eyes looked towards the stairs leading up
"Guards!" he shrieked out. "The paladin’s a spy and…"
Those were the only words he got out as Veledar latched onto his throat. Soft skin yielded to his sharpened spears, coating the dragon’s tongue with the iron like taste of blood. Bertram gave a surprised gurgle, mixing with the red’s growl. Hands flailed, trying to batter against his snout. But Veledar was to have none of it. Though as he might want to have this man suffer, that was not his way. With a final growl and thrash of his head, Bertram was no more.
Sword in hand, Arcturus turned towards the steps, no chastising words about what he’d done. Clearly the man agreed on some level with his choice. Guess they were going to have to find some other human to relay the message. With soft clicks the dragon padded over, wiping away the last bits of blood from his snout with a swipe of his tongue. He expected the sound of rustling chainmail, shouts for help, or even the heavy clatter of boots to come racing down. But that never happened. They were left listening to the steady breaths of each other, and the sound of Gerald’s groans as Lyndis hobbled him over.
"Do you need any help?" Arcturus held out a hand and gestured to the two.
"You’ll need your hands, Paladin," Gerald struggled to say, leaning on Lyndis’ shoulder. "I can’t fight, but you can."
"I can heal you with but a touch, and it will get you back on your feet." Arcturus stretched his hand toward him, but Gerald shook his head.
"They tried healing magic already. That's what they do, they torture you, then heal your wounds." Gerald spit back at the corpse of Bertram. It landed on the dead man's face with a wet splat.
"So, save yer healing. It won’t do me any good. Best save it for the fight ahead. I hope you brought an army with you.”
"We have something far better than that." Lyndis placed her foot on the first step with a smile. "We have dragons with us...Even if one of them is sometimes a pain in the arse."
"Hey!" Veledar hissed. "You’re not so easy to deal with yourself, princess."
“Can we focus on the moment, please?” Arcturus brushed his way past Lyndis and started making his way up the stairs.
Veledar surged past him, remembering just who waited for them above. Merlia might still be in danger! Pinning his wings he picked up the pace. Even if the dwarven lass got under his scales too many times, that wasn’t enough to forsake her!
"Oh, so ya tink yer tough?!" Came Merlia’s shout from above, followed by the smashing of a wooden table. "Dat what ya call hittin’ tough? Me mum hits harder den dat!"
With a resounding roar the dragon leaped, breaking down the door and landing with a flare of his wings. “Surrender now, lest I burn you where you stand!”
He found the dwarf standing over a broken table, her red hair thrown back, currently punching the human guard in the face.
"What took ya so long, lads?” She laughed, letting the man go limp upon the half broken table “I had ta mop da floor with dese ones!" Merlia gestured to the half orc, who apparently had been tossed through the table. "Poor lads never knew what hit them."
Of course she’d been okay. With a compose of his form Veledar strode around, inspecting the unconscious and bruised bodies of her assailants. Of all the ones they’d seen, the gnome was clearly absent.
"Did you offer them a chance to surrender?" Arcturus asked as Merlia started rifling through their pockets.
"Aye, I did. Shoulda seen da look on their faces." She then shoved her hands into her hips, raising her head and attaining a commanding voice. “Why should weh surrenda to you? Yer just a wee dwarf!" Merlia than cracked her knuckles. "So, I showed ‘em what a wee dwarf could do!"
"Did any of them made it to the surface to sound the alarm?" Veledar interrupted, pointing to the opened door with his tail.
"Aye, the gnome bastard decided to run fer it while da odaa two jumped meh." She paused to mutter something under her breath before sharing a look of concern with Arcturus. “It won’t be a clean escape mate. Trouble awaits for us above."
“Wonderful. Least they know what is coming for them.” The dragon sliced free the key ring from the half-orc’s belt, tossing them to Lyndis with a growl. Arcturus offered to help Lyndis again as she walked over with Gerald and set him down. Just like the previous time, the two refused him for reasons that befuddled him. Guess it was a pride thing. The dragon liked his nose, starting to stretch out every part of him. Flight was soon to be had, and finally burning this wretched place to the ground.
"I presume yer Gerald?" Merlia asked, a smile forming on her lips. "Lyndis wouldn't stop talkin’ about how pretty ya were!"
"Merlia!" Lyndis shot back as the dwarf just chuckled. Gerald also gave a pained laugh, managing a weak smirk with the less battered corner of his mouth.
“Not so pretty now, though.”
“Give it time,” Merlia encouraged him. “A few nights and several meals in your belly, and you’ll be good as new.”
Lyndis’ lips pursed at that, her close inspection of Gerald revealing less than radiant optimism. Whatever worries plagued her, she settled them aside as she snatched the keys from Veledar and proceeded to open every cell door one by one, earning thankful cries from the occupants. Once all of them were freed, she pulled out the stone and held it so they could see it. She explained in detail how to use the stone, and where they were going to end up when they did so.
Veledar imagined there would be some resistance to the idea that a green dragon wanted them as subjects, yet trading a life of torture for one under an overlord seemed like the best bargain they could ask. Each of them seemed truly grateful to the Emerald Lady that she had sent Arcturus and his team to rescue them, too tired, wounded, thirsty and malnourished to care about the details. He even rumbled when a group of them had praised his name. maybe he’d have a few fans when he returned to the Emerald Lady’s village after all.
The prisoners grabbed the stone in groups of five, performing the required activation technique as instructed by Lyndis. Arcturus stepped back and watched as every single one of them was enveloped within a purple magical cloud shortly before disappearing with an audible pop. Gerald was the last one to grab the stone, and froze when Lyndis explained she was not going with him yet.
"Why not? You got us all out! Us, who matter far less than you do!" he pleaded, somehow finding the strength to keep his words smooth and coherent. "You might get killed up there princess, and for what? Petty retribution?"
"We have two friends above, Gerald.”
“Dragons, yes,” Gerald interrupted, grabbing her shoulder and squeezing it with all his might to make his point. “They can take care of themselves, ey?”
Lyndis placed her hand upon his, her unwavering gaze meeting his cloudy, terrified one. “As your princess. I order you to go, before your dallying makes this situation all the more perilous for us."
Gerald dipped his head in defeat as she turned back towards Arcturus and the others. "He’ll go. I assume you know what comes next."
Arcturus gave a firm nod, Merlia responded with an "aye", and Veledar just cackled with glee.
Once Gerald vanished with a popping sound, Merlia readied her oath bow by nocking an arrow. “So, by Thor’s beard…” She smirked, “Shall we crush dis place beneath our boots?!"
"I just can’t wait to see this place bu...." Veledar paused to share a glance with Arcturus, waiting for the conformation that it was okay to finish that statement.
“After the battle ends. Many of these people are simply following orders, unaware and forbidden to even visit this prison. They aren’t a threat, nor our enemy, for if we perceive them such, then we are no better than Bertram.”
“That certainly sounds like a yes.” The dragon growled, his fireglands begging to be used. Though he’d try to shield his breath from the innocent, any that attacked him were fair game. “Hopefully your people aren’t too prideful to surrender.”
With a grim nod the paladin set his shield, nodding the dragon forward. “I hope so too.”