Dimming upon the horizon, the curtain rescinded heralding a close to the day of order. In praise to Kuualdir, if the indifferent god even cared for such things. Impeccably kept streets drank at the magnificent amber.

  More ebon than black the lustrous stallion trotted along, its charge striping the noble steed of all due splendor. Captivating those around her, all stilled about the rider. Noblewomen jealously stole glances, marveling at the sea of hazel that hung in a neat ponytail upon the rider’s shoulder. Enthralled and oblivious to all else, their less than better half stared openly at the voluptuous figure implied by the riding attires. Surely Ithraelle had descended in mortal form. A cursing man broke the spell bound gentry, the street lamp sparking as it scorched the trims of his plain robes.

  Lilsya adjusted her lavender gloves, oblivious to the attention she commended. A façade of calm hiding her raging mind. Five days hence. Five days since the burning. Unrelenting, unending. The lust-call was at a fever pitch, white hot, like never before. The sensation that overcame her ten years past in Dalh’un paling in comparison.

  The proud stallion snorted at the guard, almost biting the man as he reached to pet the beast.

  “Your Ladyship, Lord Breentlot offers a retinue as per your pleasure” the guard bowed, blues of the livery playing mischief with the mage lights as the day adjourned.

  “Dear Sir, convey my heartfelt thanks to the good marquess. Sadly I must decline the most gracious offer” the rider replied succinctly “Now Sir, I bid you well” annoyance never leaking in.

  “Of course Lady Malekedahiir” the guard bowed once more stepping aside, his squire in the back muffling a snicker as the man managed the foreign name.

  With a tug of the reins Lilsya strode through the gates of the ceremonial wall, segregating the greater nobles from their lesser counterparts. Shaken from her contemplation the rider called upon her willpower. Arcane radiated softly, passersby nary giving the foreign noble a second glance in kind. The stallion becoming annoyed by the indifference.    

  Leaving Naran’s great outer walls the noble broke into a sprint. Rider and steed all but invisible within the scant little moonlight. Both pair with eyes glowing a deep blood red, piercing the darkness. The lust-call beckoned Lilsya she in turn guided the unnatural beast, hooves morphing to claws as the pair entered the dense woodlands. Swiftly traversing the treacherous grounds the foreign noble once more sank into contemplation. Ten years since she had first felt the call pulling her East. Revolted by the undesired sensation, she resisted, alas by the sixth winter she relented. However this time the burn seared to the core, refusing to be denied. And as sudden as it came, the raging torrent calmed to but a stream.

  Lilsya wrenched the reins, dread beast halting near immediately with a hateful glare to the rider and a petulant huff of a snort. The noble patted the steed, trying to appease the beast. Scanning what would surely be but a pitch black cradle to the mundane, the foreign noble gazed upon the source of her misfortunes. There it lay, bright as day to her. Lilsya blanched, her mother had warned that she would have urges. Words of advice that proved inconsequential in all her years. This however was too much, the rider’s heart almost gave out. She wanted. Desired, nay needed what lay before her. Was the noble so twisted, so perverse that she would yearn for one that was not even humanoid, hells, one that is still but a hatchling.

  Deflated, the rider descended from atop her steed. The dread beast following close as the noble approached the young worm. The crimson serpent coiled within the roots of a great oak. Nary a yard from the hatchling, the foreign noble spied bolts and arrows randomly strewn about the young dragon upon the forest floor. Soft and steady the beast of legend drew breath. Its hide a marvelous sea of dark red crystals, the magnificence of which was spoiled by the repulsive intruder. The massive orichalcum capped javelin jutting defiantly above the hatchling’s hips. Stepping forth Lilsya placed a gentle hand atop the serpent’s snout, reins held in her left hand. Her mind slipped into the abyss, however, with practiced ease the noble held unto her sanity.

  Melting into the shadows, the trio vanished amongst the night.    

  The sea lapped, dragging upon unsteady feet. Kain lowered his sight, the waves pulling at him was no mere water. A sea of blood lay before him. Wet and clammy, an eerily cold sensation about his ankle drew the youth’s full attention, a decayed corpse gurgled at the youth. Unable to utter coherently words as the festering tongue hung loose, lower jaw and neck sheared, bite marks strewed the periphery of the disfiguration. Another set of hands clamped around the boys other foot. Head swiveling at a jerk, Kain looked upon the offender. The weathered robes clung unto the animated corpse, the youth heard, but did not see as the wraith screeched and moaned, head cruelly twisted. Out of sight, footsteps fell…

  Bolting upon all four, the crimson serpent broke into cold sweat. At least if the form could perspire. A faint dull pain pulsed in his lower back, but otherwise no worse off for wares. Kain took in the scenery, enjoying the softness of the massive bed the one too many cushion held the youth’s posture as he lowered himself. Silk sheets caressed the crimson scales, the morning light dancing upon the worm. Sweet fragrance calming. Something stirred below the serpent’s outspread wings. Warmer than the morning sun. Softer than the silk wrapped finery. Scent more alluring…

  Kain spun on a dime, claws digging into the silk bedding, countenance fixed in a fierce growl. A dumbfounded expression broke the show of might. The figure rose, curved horns crowning the overflowing silver hair. Fragile black wings unfurled, displaying the godly figure. The thin silk nightgown barely concealing the seductress snow white skin as a thin wisp of a tail stroke absentmindedly at the abused sheets. With feline grace the creature yawned, fluttering eyes betrayed ruby slits, shimmering in the dim rays of the rising sun.

  ‘Good morning red one’ a sultry voice echoed within Kain’s mind. The dragon looked about the room in barely contained panic ‘I am right here’ giggled the disembodied voice. Turning towards the fragile creature, the crimson youth lock eyes with the demoness. Golden slit staring upon red. ‘It is rude not to answer an offered greeting you know’ the seductress smiled softly. The moment hung, dragon and demoness gazing upon one another. Placing a hand on her soft rose lips, shock apparent ‘Can you truly not reply. Surely a Dame would never do her clutch such a disservice’ she thought aloud, quite literally.

  The crimson boy snapped and growled in an attempt to communicate, almost breaking into a thunderous roar. Servitude to his will, the youth’s bones creaked, muscle pulled. The macabre spectacle played before the demoness. Moments later the exhibitionist gasped, calming his breathing.

  “My name is Kain” said the boy in a huff. “Where am I? How did I get here? Who… what are you?” barraged the red haired youth, oblivious to the seductress’s own transformation from snow white to brick red. Reaching a feverish peak the demoness shrieked, shaming both sirens and banshees alike.

  Pulling and clutching whatever silks she could lay hands upon, the demoness scramble to restore her modesty. Quivering and ever red Lilsya pointed an outstretched arm at the red haired boy.

  “You…you…you are a human” tearing up “Put…put some clothes on” the noble buried her head within the pillows.

  Kain looked down upon his birthday suit, then to the huddled demoness. Picking up a piece of torn silk, blanked mind appearing as stoic indifference, the youth covered himself mindlessly sitting crossed legged before the crumpled foreign noble. Awaiting the seductress to calm, and for his reason to grace him once more, Kain bided.

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  Sun rising in true the lush manor room was a spectacle to behold, bright rays bouncing upon the silk and woven gold. Open to the gardens a gentle breeze brushed past the curtains, streaming betwixt the two upon the centerfold bed. With puffed eyes Lilsya observed the once dragon.

  “Viscountess Lilsya Malekedahiir of Shuize” the foreign noble bowed ever so shallowly “And I do believe you, Sir Kain…” she paused.

  “Just Kain” aided the boy.

  “Sir Kain of Naran, are responsible for that little commotion six days pass”. Seeing the hesitance about the crimson youth, the horned noble recounted their meeting within the wilds leaving out the less honorable details. Her hands shown, the silk wrapped noble added “And as you can see, I am no human. Demons I believe your ilk calls us”.

  I might as well trust her. We abominations must stick together. And so Kain detailed the events of that dreadful day, feeling as a lifetime ago.    

  With a blush, Lilsya coerced the boy leave of her room. Time dragged forward as Kain picked at the makeshift towel, the piece of fabric likely worth more than any amount of coin he ever laid hands on. A room, before a room?. The crimson boy leaned forward upon the plush chair reaching for the pitcher of water atop the low table, a deep thirst overtaking him. Sipping from the pristine glass the red hair was surprised to note that the refreshment was chilled, a point the container never betrayed by touch or dew. Upon closer examination Kain perceived tiny streams of blue racing across the vessel, oblivious that the examining eye had morphed unto its golden, reptilian glory. Shifting back as boy lost interest. I have larger concerns.

  Eventually the foreign noble exited the sanctuary, still baring a faint rouge. Staring at the familiar, yet alien human woman before him Kain uttered “Lady Malekedahiir, is that you” unsure of himself.

  “Lilsya will do just fine” the woman fought to keep her tone steady. “Now allow me to be a more accommodating host”.

  The finely dressed woman picked up a tiny golden bell nearby, giving but the faintest flicker. Within but a heartbeat the massive oak doors waft open, ushering a young woman whom gracefully strode before Lilsya bowing in deference. Turning towards the boy and without even a change in demeanor, greeted the boy.

  Must be the lady in waiting.

  “How may I serve, my lady” respectfully enquired the dark blonde haired woman.

  “Matild dear, would you kindly assist Sir Kain in finding more appropriate attires” commanded the foreign noble, a touch of pink competing with her fair complexion.

  “It will be my pleasure, my Lady” bowed Matild before leading Kain, always three steps before the crimson youth. Never less, never more.

  Having directed the red head boy to a near similar, albeit ever so slightly smaller and less ornate room immediately to the side of Lilsya’s, the lady in waiting bided Kain wait. Mere moments after leaving the boy to his own devices Matild returned, two maids carrying gentlemen finery shadowing her. With manic grins plastered the two tormentors assisted the poor youth, decency be damned. In the far corner the lady in waiting stifled a malicious grin. After the torture session the blonde woman uttered.

  “My Lady shall entertain the good sir within the hour”, the door closing shut as the three fell creatures departed.

  Kain pulled at his doublet, breaking fast within the immaculately kept gardens. The boy’s harshly learnt etiquette in keeping with the foreign noble across the table.

  As the maids cleared the tables a faint shimmering film enveloped the duo. Kain reached out in reflex, fingertips denying his sight.

  “Sir Kain I have news to share” Lilsya sipped at the fine wine, sweet odor tingling the nose “It would appear your friends did not betray your identity. Apparently, they lost sight of you when the monster appeared. Currently you are considered missing, presumed dead”.

  The red haired boy sank into thought, silence hanging. Awaiting, the noble woman was a picture of calm. “Can I see them” finally motioned Kain, eliciting a nod from the viscountess.

  The lavish carriage halted. Sun at its zenith. Kain exited, offering a gentle hand to the noble woman. Last time I was here, I was chasing that bull the youth took in the intricate gardens. In short order the duo were greeted by a pair of priestesses, an honorary knight trailing behind.

  “Aslena light your way lady Malekedahiir” beamed the taller of the priestesses “Come now, high priestess Katelyn would love to meet the shepherd that found our lost little sheep”.

  Linking arms with the crimson boy, Lilsya followed the women of the cloth.

  Arriving before a gazebo the knight made himself scarce. The four approached the structure, a lone older priestess standing on occasion. Exchanging pleasantries Kain assisted the foreign noble before taking a sit next to her. Taking charge, Lilsya regaled of how she found the youth in a forgotten corner of Naran within an inch of his life. Of how she selflessly nursed the boy back to health.

  Finishing her tea Katelyn turned to her taller subordinate, whom was in the twilight of her youth. “Vivienne, show the boy to his compatriots. They would be pleased to find him in good health”.

  “By your will high priestess” Vivienne said with a soft smile, bidding Kain to follow.

  Rounding a corner on their way to the orphanage wing, the woman turned suddenly towards the red haired youth. With purpose she lunged at Kain.

  “I thought you died” sobbed the priestess as she hung onto the boy “Never worry me like that again, I can’t bear to lose any of you”.

  Kain returned the hug, the woman was always like a mother to him. At the very least what the boy assumed a mother would be. Wiping her tears and straightening the wrinkles that had formed about her ivory robes the pair resumed their trek.  

  Kain stalked the halls of the orphanage, past few days feeling as years. Vivienne stopped before the door of a private room.

  “Go on now. I’ll wait here until you’re done” the priestess tone eased.

  Closing the door behind him the youth made for his friend. Will they see me as just another monster stepping out from the ether now the boy thought nervously.

  “­—” Nichol hushed the red haired youth.

  Approaching Kain the blonde whispered “I saw some fishy men doing something to the room earlier. Will talk outside”.

  Kain nodded, the reunited posse walking out.

  Vivienne examined the group “Stay within temple grounds this time” she warmed “And try not to get in trouble, I’ll send for Kain when high priestess Katelyn and lady Malekedahiir adjourns”.

  Relaying their understanding the five trotted towards the outside commons in silence.

  Finding a quiet spot Nichol dispelled the awkward stillness “Kain” the blonde looked at his younger doppelganger “You don’t seriously think that we expected someone capable of shrugging off a thoroughbred at full charge to be a normal”. His lifelong friends looked expectantly at the crimson youth, alas Kain had no response. Nichol signed “Granted the manicure was a bit much” the blonde failing at the joke.

  Sitting upon the well-trimmed grass, Kain urged the four do in kind. Over the next two odd hours the little posse rekindled some of their lost spirit as the crimson boy recounted past events. Surely time would heal the strained friendship.

  Kain stood before the high priestess within her private study. Placing down the enchanted quill, the old woman looked the youth in the eyes.

  “Aslena seemed to have finally answered my prayers” said Katelyn “The Dalh’un wench is currently arguing custody with Doran”.

  Through gritted teeth, Kain uttered “What of my say in any of this”.

  The woman shot the boy a piercing glance “Unimportant”, lowering her head the priestess returned her attention to the documents before her “Pack your belongings and leave”.

  Frustrated, the crimson youth slammed the door behind him. Rippling across the surface the enchantments shimmered before failing. Cracks spread about the frame, the door itself all but rend asunder.

  Marble floors shook as the crimson youth stamped through the knight halls. The unarmored warriors favoring their Godlike flasks, primed to subdue the walking calamity. About to burst through the Baron’s quarters a voiced intruded the boy’s mind ‘Calm now red one’. Catching a mural of the goddess of light Kain’s blood grew hotter. The hypocrisy palpable. ‘Enter, but be still. I shall explain later’. Forcefully suppressing his ire the youth entered after a polite knock. Looking down at the foreign noble, the hulk barely acknowledged the youth’s intrusion.

  Lilsya placed a hand onto a small stack of scrolls, wax seals undamaged “With all due respect Sir Grosslow, your peers and betters have conceded to my offer”. “Now good Sir, I believe I shall retrieve my ward and be on my way” added Lilsya.

  Veins bulging and nostrils flaring the man reached for his desk. Rolling the parchment Doran pressed his insignia upon the hot wax. ‘Follow red one’ Lilsya strode out, Kain fuming at her heels.