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Scales and Honor: City of Light

Chapter 16: Departure

"Crimson Sky! Crimson Sky!" came the joyous shouts of all the gathered crew around Veledar. Despite deep down being over the moon about the shouting happiness around him, he was in no condition to enjoy it. Well not fully anyway. He smirked while clutching his human, and pulling him closer with his claws against his scaled chest. He tried to re-position one of his wings but a sudden shark pain that felt like a thousand daggers made him reconsider the idea. "Graaaahhhh" He gasped out, clenching his eyes. Guess I will have to wait for the bull after all._He looked down to Arcturus who had his own eyes closed and looked to be passed out on him. He gave a small sigh. He was thankful for the healing that had saved his life, but he wished there had been more left to ease his pain that was now dully throbbing all over his body. _Just like the time in Mo....My lair. He frowned. _That healing on the other hand felt WONDERFUL..and healed everything..._He gave out a snort, rustling the human's hair softly. He opened his maw and gave him a slow lick with his pink slimy eel. He got no complaint from Arcturus, who just let out a small groan.

"Your welcome." the human sighed.

You certainly have come along way since complaining about dragon drool. Veledar chuckled weakly to himself, resting his head softly along Arcturus' own. He let out another deep breath as he gazed to the ravaged ship around him. The broken and cracked wood, each dent within it's surface a reminder at what the construct had done to him. Veledar shivered as he remembered each pained impact, each time his bones rattled...and when the thing had snapped his wings. He narrowed his eyes, looking to the missing cannons that had been ripped from their base, and tossed easily off the side of the ship, than he moved to the scorch marks along the wood. Black dots along the surface of the wood, each one used to be a person before the construct opened its maw.

That construct nearly..._He growled quietly in his throat as the pained, terrifying thought came to him, _But it didn't. He looked back down to Arcturus, his human, his paladin. A smile coming to the dragon's snout. Because I had you there to save me. You were like the stories of legend tonight....Not the fake paladin from when we first met....But a glorious knight from the tales I read....worthy of story or song... He swished his tail softly as his thoughts once more turned to the metal flying construct, as he remembered the paladin's blade slicing right through it's armored neck.

_ Could they all have talked?It occurred to the dragon that it was strange to have the thing screeching out his name into the night air. He shook the thought from his mind. If any others could have talked he was certain they would have heard one do so by now. _It knew my name. That thought brought more questions to his mind like how, and why. Far as he knew the only mortals that knew his name were currently bound within his grasp, or no doubt flying back from destroying that flying eyesore of a ship. _So how did they build a construct that knew my name?_He growled again to himself, those of course would be thoughts for another day. Better to just focus on how they had survived the night. Arcturus gave a loud ragged cough into the dragon's chest. Veledar would have playfully scolded him, probably suggested he was trying to make him ill. However he bit his tongue as he remembered how brave he had been, and how hurt he was. He continued to stare at the human, the only thing that mattered in this moment. He even ignored the next round of cheers from more crew that made their way around him.

He rose his head to look down one last time at the fading city, the thing that held so much hatred from him in the past two months. The lights twinkling on the dark countryside like fireflies. He had to admit from up here, it looked rather beautiful to admire. That only lasted a moment as he pictured the ashes of his book surrounded by purple flames, and the city once again filled him with anger. He let out another snort and instinctively went to move his wing again, getting the same pain filled response as from before. When he opened his eyes from clenching them shut there was a crew member kneeling beside him and Arcturus.

"Crimson Sky." The young woman spoke softly, her blue eyes filled with worry. "Can we take Arcturus below to be healed by our healer? He looks rather...hurt." Her eyes rolled to Arcturus, and seemed to inspect him boot to head.

"No.." He replied back quickly, holding Arcturus tighter. "We will wait for Asterion." He glanced back to Arcturus. He knew he was being stubborn in this moment, but he knew the human was safe within his claws. He looked healthy enough anyway. He did not have any large gashes on him, and he was still appearing to breath normally.

"Crimson Sky...I must insist."

"I said no." he snorted, his frills twitching. "Go grab this healer of yours if you must. But Arcturus will remain here safe in my paws, and continue to be this way until he his healed.

"But-"

"I tire of your insistence that Arcturus should be plucked from my safe embrace. I repeat, the only way you are snatching MY human from me is from my cold dead paws." He narrowed his eyes at her, "Now leave me."

"Dragon wants the healer!" She shouted out, as she bolted from him across the deck and quickly descended the stairs. Several crew members gawked at her as she had passed, than swiftly shot glares to the dragon.

Veledar gave a soft rumble as he head next to Arcturus' once again, and ignored the looks he had gotten. Perhaps he had been a tad harsh with the girl. She was only trying to help after all. Even IF she wanted to take Arcturus away from him. He gave a sigh, It had been a hard day on him after all. Nearly dying, book burning, Arcturus getting seriously hurt. He snorted. She was lucky I was not Angrier. He thumped his tail softly against the deck's broken surface, vowing to apologize to the girl when she returned. That would at least make her feel better. Maybe she would even stroke his snout, or tell him how humble he was. Sounds about right.

"How are you feeling Arcturus?" he whispered into the human's ear. He briefly caught the sight of the lifeboat returning with his friends, but did not pay it any mind. He only focused on the human within his grasp.

"Feeling sore all over." Arcturus groaned, "I think I used all my energy in that last attack....Also...Your too comfy." Arcturus pulled himself tighter against the dragon's frame. It was not as warm and comfy as when he lacked armor, but it would do for now.

"Well that was your mistake in lying down. I have you in my clutches and I will never let you go." Veledar chuckled in amusement.

"Best mistake I have made." Arcturus sighed.

"Well Asterion will be here faster than a dragon can shake his tail. Than we can be back bounding around without worry." He smiled, imagining the scene already playing out in his mind. _That would be nice. _ Veledar sat in silence, curled around the human as the crew went abut trying to clean up the debris left from the flying construct dragon. The entire time he listened to Arcturus' breaths trying to watch out for if they stopped. It was only a minute later before he heard sudden, loud, ear piercing, cheers from the crew.

"Lets here it for Lyndis lads!"

"And that bull Asterion!"

"Don't forget about the gryphons and their riders!"

"And Havoc squad!"

There was a round of applause that filled the night air, as Veledar felt a small spike of jealousy sneak it's way into his bones. "Hmmph." he snorted, blowing Arcturus' hair one again.

"They back I assume?" Arcturus asked softly, his voice muffled against Veledar's scales.

"Yes Arcturus, only a minute now before we can be up again and wrestling....Or other things.." He smirked as he held up his head, and searched for the human girl that had spoken to them earlier. "Of course...that sweet girl is taking her time in coming back."

"Maybe she could not stand your radiant scales? Or perhaps your sunny disposition?" Arcturus chuckled, groaned, and than let out another ragged cough.

"Hush now Arcturus.." Veledar nosed the human with his snout softly. "Save your jokes dearest Arcturus until you are healed and well again." He rose a claw to stroke his human's armored back. "I do not wish you injured even more than you are."

"Look at you all worried about me...your practically shivering." Arcturus smiled, with his eyes still clamped shut. "Adorable."

"Oye! Crimson Sky!" Lyndis yelled out, running over and drawing the dragon's attention. She made her way through the crew members gracefully, never once bumping into someone. She was dragging Asterion by one of his hands, who appeared to be unhurt save for a small cut on his muzzle. "Are you okay?" She gasped out as she pointed to his wings and numerous other cuts. "Okay stupid question, of course your not in tip top shape."

"Despite the dull pain, cuts, and broken wings." Veledar rolled his eyes, "I am in perfect health." He gestured downwards to Arcturus with his snout. "Thanks to the little hero here."

"Your lying through your teeth dragon." She chuckled, putting her hands on her hips. "Your in lots of pain I bet if you move...Just too proud to admit it." She looked around, her eyes glancing to the practically destroyed deck. "Where did the construct go? We saw you fly away with it chasing you from a porthole in the ship.

"Sliced to ribbons by Arcturus here." Veledar grinned. "I weakened it of course. Did all the heavy lifting only for the human here to take ALL the glory." He turned his attention to the bull, who was glancing looks to Arcturus, already pulling out his book of spells. "Asterion...tend to Arcturus first... I think he needs it a tad more than I."

"Are you sure?" Lyndis asked gesturing to his wing with a finger. "Your wing looks like a focken mess."

"Yes.." He hissed. "Despite my own pain, no one has tended to Arcturus." He opened up his forelimbs to allow the cleric to approach Arcturus and gently place one hand on him.

"Vokras ahraan" Asterion muttered, his hands lighting up in a brilliant golden light. It spread out to Arcturus, wrapping him in it's shimmering embrace. The human let out a small groan.

"S-so much better." Arcturus coughed clutching his side. He let out another soft groan, before freeing himself from the dragon and standing up. "Thanks."

Lyndis dove onto the human and grabbed him tight in a hug. "Your okay!" She smiled, "When that thing had chased after you...I thought...." She laughed. "Doesn't matter! You two are safe now and that's all that matters!"

"So you destroyed the ship then? I heard an explosion when we finished off the flying construct dragon."

"Course we did! What do you take me for? When we agree to a job we get it done." She smiled, thumbing her chest. "Should have seen the focken firework display. That thing lit up like...well a fireball! I just was disappointed I did not bring any marshmallows."

"As lovely as this story is." Veledar groaned out, thumping his tail against the deck again. Loud enough to startle two crew members who were passing by. "But could your marvelous leader get some healing?" He saw Arcturus throw him a look that seemed to convey "Be nice." Veledar rolled his eyes, "Please will you heal me?"

The bull just gave him a snort and swished his tail, as he set down his pack and began to rifle through it. His face bore one of determination as she dug around for whatever he was looking for within it's confines.

"Graaaah." Arcturus groaned out, stretching his arms to the sky. Than patted Veledar's scales softly along his neck. "You make a rather comfortable bed dearest dragon."

"I am certainly not your bed." he smiled, moving his snout closer to the human, than nosed him gently.

"Than stop being good as one and I shall stop calling you such." Arcturus ran a hand under his chin, tracing the scales underneath with his fingers. "How are you feeling?" he asked softly, starting to scratch the scales with his hand.

"I could be better." He sighed, moving into the human's touch. "I will feel better of course when Asterion is tending to me." He turned his eyes to Asterion and gave the stern looking bull a grin.

"Arcturus sir!" Came the voice of a younger looking man clad in chain mail. Veledar glared at the man who looked like he was in pristine condition. For even after the fighting and the wreckage his armor, and face lacked any dirt, grime, or blood of any kind.

"Yes soldier?" Arcturus turned to the black haired man, who snapped to attention. "What is it that has you looking so anxious?"

"The family of your friend...The Gus fellow.... They were looking for you sir..I imagine they are concerned with your health.

There was a momentary pause as Arcturus' face frowned, and his disposition darkened. "Right." he said softly, his green eyes filling with sadness. He looked briefly to Veledar, his words still soft. "As much as I would like to remain here in your company Crimson Sky..." He looked back to the man. "Sometimes unpleasant things must be done." Arcturus gave out a sigh. "Come on, lets go find Krotos, he will want to be there when we break the news to them."

"Never easy is it sir?"

"Not in all the times I have had to do it." Arcturus hung his head and grumbled. Then he walked away without another word.

Than it is as I feared....Gus did not make it..Veledar could feel his own heart going out to the human. He knew what it meant to lose loved ones of course, and of course he had lost his book this evening as well. He was going to ponder more about Arcturus' wave of sadness when his attention was pulled away by a sharp bout of pain from his wings. The daggers that had stabbed him before felt like thousands dragging their way across his membranes. "Graaaaahhh!" he snarled out, "Why not use a healing spell on me? Instead of making it feel like a snapping dragon turtle has latched onto me!?" He turned his neck around to the bull, who was still re-positioning his wing into it's rightful place. "Or do you just like seeing me in pain?"

"I have used all my spells for the evening." Asterion stated flatly. "So lucky for you that I can preform a healing technique given to me by my patron deity twice a day." The bull ran his rough hand over the next wing. "However it is not a very useful spell for the middle of combat."

"Why is that?" Veledar tilted his head to the side, his frills twitched.

"Because as you can see." The bull held up a handful of red bandages in his left hand. "I have to bandage up the patient, even if they are a whiny dragon who cannot stand a bit of pain." He smirked.

"Well I would not be complaining if you had learned a better bed side demeanor!" Veledar snapped, "Perhaps if you had offered me a meal, or song I wound have been more----AHHHHH!" Veledar roared out as Asterion moved the second wing into place, than quickly wrapped a bandage around the limb.

"I swear Asterion..." Veledar gasped out, trying to not focus on the aching pain in his wings. "I will get you back for this somehow."

"Is that wise to do dragon?" Asterion chuckled. "To threaten the one who could heal you right now? Perhaps I should just leave you in pain for the next few hours to teach you a manner of respect?" The bull raised an eyebrow as he moved around towards the dragon's forelimbs. He pulled out some more red bandages and started wrapping those next.

Thankfully they were not as painful as the wings, and Veledar could simply watch the bull as he worked. He rolled his eyes as he realized the cleric had a point of his whining. Like or not he was at the bulls mercy for the time being. He glanced up away from his work, to search for Arcturus. Perhaps he had not gone far and he could find him. Sure enough the human was standing near the stairs leading to the deck below. His arms were crossed while he stood nervously next to Krotos. They were talking to Gwen and Mary with looks of sorrow on their faces. To his irritation he could not make out the words they were saying over the chatting noises of the crew around him.

Arcturus seemed to say something that made Veledar's heart suddenly feel as though someone had taken a claw and plunged it straight through. He went to clutch at the phantom pain but Asterion held his paw firmly. Gwen suddenly dove her head into her mothers dress as Mary placed her hands to her mouth. She let out a loud shriek of pain, than collapsed to her knees on the deck of the ship. Veledar gave a deep sigh as he knew what they were talking about now. "Gus." He mumbled softly to himself. He had not known the human for very long, but he had enjoyed him for his praises. He remembered his words to take care of Arcturus, he wondered if he they liked each other in that way, on that day. He gave out another snort, ruffling Asterion's fur.

"I did not think waiting would depress you so much dragon." The bull finished up and clasped his hands together. "There...Now I can start the spell." He looked up to Veledar, and held out a wagging finger to his snout. "Now this might sting a little bit dragon....Nothing like my usual healing...Or the healing from the paladin over there....So don't expect to have an orgasm over this."

"Pffff." Veledar gave a dismissive snort. "_They_do not give me orgasms minotaur...Although that would be a wonderful thing if they did... They simply warm my bones and give me a pleasant sensation."

"Well don't be expecting that then. This way of healing is more directly from Kord...and he does not like to exactly coddle his followers."

"Lovely deity you have there." Veledar stuck his tongue out, then rolling his eyes and tracing a talon onto the floorboards. He supposed having a sting while healing was better than walking around with broken wings and numerous gashed over his glorious crimson scales while he waited till tomorrow for the better healing. "Fine minotaur, I shall put up with this minor pain, and try not to have thoughts of my revenge on you."

"As you say then." the bull replied sternly, swishing his tail. He took his hand and pressed it firmly onto Veledar's shoulder. It was rough, not like the gentle caress of Arcturus at all. He tensed his muscles under the minotaur's palm.

"How gentle you are." he groaned.

"I am a warrior dragon. If you want a lovers touch go see your human."

"Don't think I wont minotaur!" He laughed. "Besides your just jealous of him." He stuck his tongue out again playfully.

"Hardly." Asterion closed his eyes, as the air around him seemed to ripple with an unseen power. His fur started to dance around like it was caught in a small gust of wind. "In Kord's glorious name, and by the rites of battle. I use the power you have granted to me to heal this pompous, dragon who is full of hot air."

"Hey!" Veledar snapped, "There is no way that is part of the- AAAAAAAHHHHAHAHA!" The dragon's body lit up in pain all over. It felt like he was being dipped in molten lava that could actually hurt him. "GRAAAAHHHHH!" he let out another roar into the air as he thrashed on the deck of the ship. His tail smacked the wood, his claws drew deep lines. He tried to focus on how angry he was at Asterion, if he could only focus on anything but the pain dancing all over his scales, through his flesh, and even to his very bones. It seemed the pain had made it even into his brain as he could think of nothing else as he spasmed. This continued for at least a minute or two until with a final pain filled spasm he sprawled himself out on the deck, gasping for breath. "T-that was.....H-horrible." He snarled weakly with each rise and fall of his chest.

"Don't worry! Asterion shouted to the crew, while holding his hands high above his head. "It was just the healing I preformed on the dragon...No need to panic...You can put your weapons away now!"

"Looks like they don't like you hurting me." Veledar smiled. He gave out a small groan as he lifted his head once more. He rose to his side, and tried to move one of his wings. Thankfully the pain that had been so intense before had vanished. It looked like despite the intense pain, the bull had been true to his word and actually healed him. He moved his snout to every inch of his body, inspecting the red scales that lined it. There was no trace of any of the cuts, gashes, or bleeding holes that had been in his hide. The last thing he checked was his slit, which thankfully had emerged from the battle unscathed. _That would have been another whole ordeal._Satisfied with his healing he snaked his head back to the bull and gave a pleased snort in his direction. "Since you did such a fine job in healing me minotaur there will be no need for me to bite you in return for all the pain I endured."

"You talk as though I would LET you bite me dragon. Just remember." He held out his finger. "If not for me..You would still be lying on that floor groaning, broken, and in pain."

"Yess." He hissed, raising his body up to his haunches. He curled his tail around them as he resettled his wings against his back. "It pains me to say it minotaur.....Thank you Asterion...your healing...if painful...was still....welcome." he grumbled out the last bit, than turning his attention back to Arcturus who was now holding Mary in his arms. She was pressed up against him, with Krotos wrapping them in his wings. Despite knowing it was for the fallen guard, Veledar could not fight the small tinge of jealousy that wormed it's way into his heart. He shook his head as he scratched his head with a wing talon. He than narrowed his eyes. I will get my hug when they are finished.

"Your welcome dragon. You fought well today regardless of your whining. You saved our lives at the castle, and then vanquished a mighty metallic foe on this ship. At risk of inflating your ego..." Asterion sighed. "You should be proud of yourself this day."

"Oh I am ALWAYS proud of myself Asterion." Veledar replied with an amused coo. He rose his head as high as he could manage, holding his forelimbs out wide. "Remember it Asterion...Crimson Sky the bold, Savior of mortals, destroyer of metal monsters." He thumped his tail on the deck, as looked to the bull with a smile.

"Crimson Sky!" came the loud high pitched cry of Feku, as she bolted up onto the deck. Her claws clacking on the wooden deck as she scrambled to pass by crew members. Veledar gave the little kobold an amused look on his snout as she finally made her way to him, her scales one of the brightest blue he had seen on her as she looked up at him. "They said you were hurt!" she cried out, her frills on the side of her snout twitching with worry. Veledar watched her eyes scan him from snout to tail, than back to his head. "Where you hurt?" she moved back towards his tail, running a claw along the scales there.

"I'm fine girl." Veledar groaned, pushing her away with a paw before the started tracing along his slit with her claws. The last thing he needed right now was to spring forth in front of all the mortals. After all he did not need to remind them of their inadequacy. "Our cleric tended to my wounds." He turned his head to glare at the smirking minotaur. "even if he could work on his bedside manner."

"You could toughen your hide." Asterion crossed his arms, and swished his tail. "Or should I just call you soft scales from now on?"

"Don't you dare." Veledar hissed, narrowing his eyes.

"So you bettering now?" Feku patted his forepaw softly. "You don't need my help?"

"No..You were a tad slow I am afraid."

"Feku sorry Crimson Sky!" the little kobold buried her snout into his paw and placed a few pecks on it. "I was below...I will do my best to not let you down again...My apologies great and powerful Crimson Sky, who has scales most pleasing to the eye!"

Despite everything Veledar could not help letting out a pleased croon as such pleasant words. How could he resist when she was showing such devotion to him? He swished his tail back and forth, as he started to rather like having the little girl around. However he still pushed her off of his paw despite loving the attention. "Gather yourself Feku, you are embarrassing yourself in front of the others. You did not fail me, you were simply busy....besides"He turned his snout back to Asterion. "It is not your job to heal me."

"Well thank you Crimson Sky." Feku smiled, and bowed before him. Her little yellow striped tail swishing back and forth.

Veledar smiled, once again loving the great importance that Feku was showing him. He had to mentally remind himself that not everyone should be essentially worshiping him like this kobold. Although as he focused on her he thought about Arcturus. _Perhaps I could convince the human to show such devotion to me?_The thought was amusing to picture the human on his knees before him, worshiping him like the king he knew he was. He pulled himself out of the mental image of his human with his lips around his mighty spear, as his eyes caught the shining city below. It looked like a flame in the middle of the dark countryside below. He thought back to his book, the purple flames igniting the pages, they turning black and curling from the heat, until his treasure started to break away into blackened ash. His eyes narrowed at the city as he gave it an anger filled snort of air.

"Now stop fussing over me Feku and leave me be...I think I would like to be left along for now." He pushed her away again lightly with his forepaw, taking note her scales shifted to a grand royal purple as he did so.

"I will of course leave you Crimson Sky if that is what you wish. If you need anything let me know. I will tend to your every need.

Veledar tilted his head to the side as he thought he saw her take a peak between his legs before she turned and strolled away with a swishing of her tail. Does purple mean what I suspect it means? Veledar thumped his tail lightly on the deck smiling to himself. Arcturus would find that hilarious I imagine..._Perhaps he would want a go...while the kobold tended to them?_He let out a quiet aroused growl at the thought. He perked his head up as the loud voice of a female dwarf carried itself up from the decks below.

"We have a problem captain!" The voice continued, drowning out all other voices on the deck with its intensity. It made Veledar's twitch in curiosity as the soot covered face of the dwarf appeared from the stairs. She rubbed her hands with an off white rag, throwing her braided short brown hair back. The beads within rattling.

"What's the matter?" came Captain Striker, as he finished speaking with another crew member. He strolled over to her, parting the others like water. Veledar himself inched closer towards the two, hoping to eaves drop on them. He pretended to be looking out into the vast sky, but kept his attention solely on the two talking.

"Engines up and fried captain." The dwarf called Dotty said , her face looking grim as she thumbed back towards the stairs. "I gave her all I got...but it wasn't enough....we don't have the power to keep this tub in the air much longer." She let out a deep sigh, looking around at the crew, the ship, and than back to the stern faced captain. "I give her an hour before the engine blows...and dats if we run on minimum power sir."

Striker crossed his arms, as he paced back and forth. Veledar noted that everyone around them had gone silent, as the only sound he could hear was the whistling wind as it passed them by. "So we have to abandon ship than." the man held his head up high, standing up straight. "Split up and not give them a single target to chase." He turned on a heel and pointed a finger to Elizabeth, who was standing just as silent as everyone else. "You and Swiftwing can get the plans for the uniter back to Rothdell...I have seen the damn bird fly, he might be the fastest gryphon we have.

"Hey!" Krotos ruffled his plumage, and fidgeted his wings. Striker silenced him by holding up his hand.

"Let us not get into a contest of whose feathers are brightest Krotos. Swiftwing flies faster than you. Now is not the time to falter because of pride." He held out a hand as Shandalar moved in, and pressed the plans into his hands.

"I will not be going with you captain." She said, Veledar swore he heard a tingle of regret in her words mixed with sadness. But that's impossible right? He grinned internally. From the emotionless Shandalar.

"Why is that Shandalar? No doubt you would be given a heroes welcome on your return..Few medals to add to the list of accomplishments you already have..You did wonderfully."

"We found something else in there as well captain. Something that I believe needs my fully attention." She gestured to her pack with a hand. "I witnessed something dreadful tonight Will." She continued lowering her voice. "I saw how the mana crystals are made. I need to know more about them..and I think I found some scrolls that might shed some light on the subject."

Veledar lifted his head and tried to hide his gasp of surprise.

Strike put a hand to his beard and stroked it softly. "Are you sure?"

Shandalar nodded, her eyes still locked on the captain's. "I need a quiet place to rest for a few days while I give them my full attention..and you know." She gestured to the collection of people gathered on the deck with a wave of her hand. "You don't want to put all your eggs in one basket after all."

"Very well Shandalar." Striker sighed, "I will let the brass know you are doing what you do best...Investigating were no other wizard goes." He clasped a hand to her shoulder. "You stay safe alright?"

She nodded, a thin smile breaking the surface of her face. Veledar thought for a brief moment that he saw fondness in her eyes as she looked into the human captain's own. "I will always stay safe Will.." She looked back towards the stairs leading down. "Now did you have the others retrieve the item from my base?"

"The magical ball?"

"No." the elf chuckled.

_ No way..._ Veledar resettled his wings, swishing his tail slightly. _She laughs..WHO is this human to her?_He moved his head as if he were following one of the clouds he could make out in the sky, trying to keep up the illusion he was not listening in on their conversation.

"I meant the magical carpet I kept in the place." Shandalar continued.

"The flying one?" Striker laughed. "Yea we got the worn thing. Don't know why you wont let me get you another one.."

"Because it still works Will...and is fine.." She placed a hand on his shoulder this time. "Thank you."

"Don't mention it love....Will there be anything else you need before you depart?"

"Nothing I can think of. I have mostly everything I need in my pack, and I can summon the rest with but a wave of my hands."

"Good." Striker nodded. "Than be sure to send a message from time to time, let me know how the investigation goes." He moved in close and Veledar was sure they brushed faces together before parting. "Come on men!" Striker yelled out to the others. "Time to pack up, we are abandoning the destiny before she blows!"

Veledar watched the crew without skipping a beat leap into action. They started to grab everything that was not nailed down to the floorboards. They did not panic as they did this, and instead maintained an orderly attitude. He looked to his minions on the deck of the ship, especially Arcturus. If everyone was going to be splitting up from this doomed ship he was going to grab the human. He would say his farewells to the others with a smile. Maybe swell out his chest as they would doubtfully give him tear filled farewells. He'd than place the human on his back and he would fly them far away from her. He would move the entrance to his lair even further away, somewhere Lumara would not go. He thought back to the long months he had spent with his now friends, and how the quest had failed so spectacularly. At least Arcturus is a wonderful consolation prize. Thankfully he did not have to sit their long before Arcturus was right beside him once again.

However the human's face was darkened as he leaned himself up against the dragon's scales without a word. Veledar could feel the emptiness within the human as he appeared to be having a staring contest with the deck at his feet. The dragon hardly noticed Merlia walking by with her own head held low, he usual joyful face one of sorrow as Krotos supported her with a wing. She only let out a near silent "thank ya." as they strolled passed.

Veledar moved a forepaw, wrapping the human in his scaly limb, than pressing him firmly against his chest once again. His frills twitched as he sat silently holding the human. He was not exactly sure what to say. What words he could pluck from his mind that would set his human as ease. So instead he said nothing, curling his tail around the two. He figured his mere presence would help Arcturus with what he was currently going through. The human ran his hands through his hair and let out a long drawn out sigh. Veledar dipped his head in reply and nosed the human's head with his snout. He snorted a small puff of air that rustled Arcturus' hair gently. Even this little amusement did not seem to lighten the human's spirits. "Arcturus." he said softly

"No captain that will not do!" Shandalar strode over towards the dragon with captain Striker right beside her.

_ Damn just go away elf._ "What do you want? He growled softly, "I just want to comfort my human in peace."

"Well that was the tone I would have expected." Shandalar crossed her arms. "Is your lair close by Crimson Sky? I would have need of it while we look to some papers I found in the laboratory."

"No." He spat out, narrowing his eyes and pulling Arcturus closer against him. "I want nothing to do with your war." He hissed.

"We could pay handsomely." Striker added, holding up one of his fingers. "For helping Rothdell in one of our most dire times of need."

_ Handsomely?His brain imagined the treasure they could provide for him, possibly a kings ransom. The golden coins, the gems, the no doubt magic items he would request from them. He could imagine them clanking against his own vast horde of-_No, no, no.. Focus._Veledar shook his head. "No. I will not..even for all the coins in Rothdell's coffers." He spat out, almost hating the words as they left his mouth. _What kind of dragon turns down treasure?...One that does not want to be involved in their stupid war..and wants to be safe with his human.

"Come now Crimson Sky. Please I beg of you to let Shandalar use your lair." The captain continued to plead. "There must be something you want. We can get it for you..just let her use your lair..it will only be for a few days!"

"I said no!" Veledar snarled, thrashing his tail and startling several crew members. "I have already been wounded by these people you are at war with, and I want no part of it!" There was a moment of silence as the two mortal before him gave him looks of disbelief, like he grown an eextra set of horns on his head. Good maybe they won't ask me again.

"I have a place that may work." Arcturus spoke up, his voice sounding tired. "My old estate. It's several hours flight to the south. We should be able to rest their for a few days if that is what you need." Veledar felt the human tighten around his forelimb. "I don't think they will look for us their either..." His voice trailed off into a mumble. Veledar felt the sadness within his human only ache more, so he pulled him closer. Hoping his warmth, and sound of his heart would be enough.

"Why would that be Arcturus?" Shandalar raised an eyebrow. "Is it not your estate?" Is that not one of the logical places to look for you if you had gone missing?"

"It would be if you did not know me." Arcturus sighed, looking to the elf with mournful eyes. "But Cornellius knows me well, and he knows I would not step a foot into that place."

Shandalar tilted her head to the side, and Arcturus added. "Bad memories."

"Well than that does sound like a good spot to hold up in....Will it have ample room for all our our companions?" She gestured to Veledar with a flick of her wrist, not even looking up at his snout.

"Should be no problem..Our estate was built with gryphons in mind. Since we had some gryphon servants..So it should not have a problem housing a dragon of his size." Arcturus patted Veledar's scaly limb gently.

Veledar thumped his tail gently, as he pictured several gryphons roaming around the estate, wearing black and white maid outfits, and nearly burst out laughing at the thought. He however managed to mind his tongue and only continued to swish is tail.

"Than it's settled." Shandalar clasped her hands together. "I will go make sure I have the rest of my things...Including the magic carpet." She turned to give Striker an amused look, than returned her gaze to Veledar. The look turning once again into one of no emotion. "Are you coming with us well Crimson Sky?"

Veledar wanted to say no to the elf and rub her face in the fact he had no interest in her war. But Arcturus was the one offering them a place to stay, so if the human was going..."Yes." he hissed, his eyes narrowing as she gave him a smug look. "However not for long, just long enough to recuperate from this evenings-" He pictured his book once again in his mind, being turned into a pile of ash, than being blown away by a strong wind. "Difficulties." he snarled.

"Very well then dragon. It will truthfully be a shame to see you go. Despite your attitude, you were most useful to have around." Shandalar finished, gave a slight nod, and than strode back towards the stairs leading to the deck below.

Veledar snorted again as he pressed his snout into Arcturus' hair. It did not please him that he would be staying at a place known for the family of dragon murderers that resided there. He shivered at the thought of seeing the corpses that must be on display in the place, acting as trophies, or things to boast about to other mortals. Thankfully he could feel a small bit of annoyance radiating from Arcturus., and it seemed the human did not like the idea just as much as he did. He hugged the human even tighter as he had felt his grip slack. It caused Arcturus to let out a small peep of defiance, but it died down into his no doubt comforting embrace. He let out a sigh as he closed his eyes. It will only be for a night or two after all...Than I have Arcturus....and we can fly away. He held his snout up to look into the vast stars beyond, that were to be said to be the souls of dragons. Away from all this...Maybe I can even smash a thing or two in the estate for good measure. He chuckled to himself, nuzzling the human with his snout.

Moments passed before he was called over by Lyndis as she waved for him to follow her to the back of the ship. Veledar strode over, swelling his chest out and making sure that his human was right in front of him as he walked. If Arcturus slowed his walk the dragon was sure to nudge him gently forward. He could feel the hallow feeling that was lurking within the human's heart had not passed, and it pained him to not be comforting the brave paladin now. _Don't worry Arcturus, we can comfort each other later._He glanced around quickly, finding that all of his hirelings from the journey were gathered around the half-elven princess. They all had their packs slung around their backs, their weapons stowed, and looks of readiness on their faces. Feku the kobold was even spotting her pirate hat placed squarely on her head. She was fidgeting in place as Shandalar was reading a scroll spread open in her hands.

"Well everything looks to be in order." She picked up a rather large royal purple rug that had thin golden tassels on the end. They almost looked like the long metal wind chimes that mortals hung from their roofs to hear the sound of the metal striking when the wind caught them in it's wake. The elf unwrapped it with a single forceful shake that spread out the beautiful carpet before Veledar's eyes. Stitched into the carpet was the picture of a great purple dragon curled around a large blue glowing gemstone. As the carpet settled onto the deck of the ship Veledar was certain he saw the stitching dragon blink one of it's bright yellow eyes.

"You had a magical flying carpet this entire time?" Veledar gasped, tilting his head to the side and glaring at Shandalar. He swished his tail, and snorted a gust of air. "You could have just flown out of the castle! There was no need for me to risk claw and wing to save the lot of you!"

"But then you would have not gotten the chance to be a big hero!" Lyndis laughed, nudging the dragon with her elbow."

Well that was true after all. He swelled his chest up at the fact that yes, he was a big hero and they were lucky to have him around.

"Do you see how big the thing is dragon?" The elf gestured to the carpet as she rolled up the scroll and placed it in her pack. "I'd need to carry this massive thing around where ever I had gone in the castle." She raised one of her eyebrows. "Are you volunteering to carry the carpet around?"

"Nonsense." Veledar hissed, narrowing his eyes in irritation. "I am of course no common pack animal."

"So just a normal animal than?" Shandalar had a small grin form on the side of her lips.

_ Manticores bottom._ He tried to think of a witty comeback to throw the elf back on the defensive. However when he could not think of one instantly, he snorted, thrashed his tail, and continued to glare at her. "Well if we are riding out of here." he gestured to Lyndis by arching his serpentine neck. "I suppose I can carry Arcturus, and our fair princess." He pointed to the carpet with a talon. "The rest of you can of course ride that...Simple piece of furniture." He held his snout up high as if he had lost interest in the entire thing. Perhaps I could convince her to part ways with it? It would look wonderful adorned in my lair...Maybe she would part with it for some coin? He certainly had literally tons of coin to part ways with. And it would be a small price to pay for a beautiful magical item such as this. With a shake of his head he focused on crouching so that Lyndis could hop onto his back.

"Thanks." She mumbled, settling into the saddle. "Hey it looks like the focking thing broke!" Lyndis held up the piece of leather that had been used to safely secure Arcturus into the saddle. "Remind me to use a spell to fix it tomorrow." She yawned. "No need for the focking thing to stay broken."

"Now for you my armored knight." Veledar gave Arcturus a soft nudge with his snout. "Hurry up and mount me, I won't be kept waiting." He gave a playful grow, trying to bring a smile, shade of embarrassment, anything to wipe away the cloud of despair that seemed to have enveloped the sour faced paladin. However despite his comment, which could have easily been taken as lewd, Arcturus said nothing as he grabbed hold of the leather, and started to pull.

"Your going to leave without offering your good byes?" came the loud voice of Mary as she strode over with a look of fury in her eyes. Veledar would have swore she was a dragoness by the way she stomped over towards the human. Gwen was clutching the woman's side, keeping pace with her frantic strides, with Krotos right beside her.

"Of all the things Arcturus...You cant even offer us a farewell before you head off on this crusade of yours?" She placed her hands to her hips, "Or do I have to come over there and smack you r-right u-upside your head?" her voice cracked, her eyes misting. Veledar could not help feel sympathy for her as Arcturus strode over and embraced the woman in a tight hug as she was reduced to tears. "Now..You take care now..." She thrust a finger onto the man's armored torso. "Don't be wandering off from yer friends." She poked the armor again, than pointed to Veledar, who held a paw to his chest defensively. "and stay with him." She smacked Arcturus gently on the shoulder, rattling his armor plates. "Gus knew about ya two before you even did. So you stay close to one another ya hear?"

Arcturus nodded without a word, Veledar could see that his own eyes were starting to mist up as well.

"G-good. Now you best be off before I start beggin and pleading for all of ya to stay." She grabbed Gwen who gave Arcturus a tearful goodbye, complete with some loud sniffles. Before she turned to go leave with her mother she made her way over to Veledar, who lowered his head so that it was level with her. He figured it was his turn to get a good bye after all. She touched the tip of his snout with her soft hands and he gave her a rumble of approval from his throat. Tears began to form in her eyes as she looked to him like the beautiful dragon he knew he was. "It was g-great meeting you Mr. Crimson Sky sir." She sniffed, "You will make sure to find us and say hello from time to time right?"

Veledar could not help but nod in silence to the little girls request. Even if he was unsure if he was able to there was no way he could crush Gweneth's spirit now. Not after tonight's events had left her a crying mess.

"Thank you." She said softly, wrapping her arms around his snout and pulling him into a tight hug. "Thank you."

"Come on Krotos." Mary called to the gryphon as Gwen backed away from Veledar, and grabbed her mother's hand, and waved good bye to everyone who returned the gesture.

The gryphon just stood there, shifting his weight from talon to talon, clicking his beak together as if he did not know what to say at first. "I...I'm not going with you Mary." Krotos stammered, ruffling his feathers.

"How can you?" Mary gasped, "After what happened? How can you leave us now?"

"How can I?" Krotos clacked his beak again, his teal tipped wings fluttering. "The man that gave the order that..." The gryphon dragged his talons across the deck, digging into the wood as Kroto's eyes narrowed. "Did the deed is still out there Mary." His eyes filled with such fierceness that Veledar was almost sure a dragon was lurking within the kittybird in front of him. "So anyway that I can help take him down...I need to do it..Not just for me Mary..but for you...for Gwen...for...Gus.." his voice got lower and trembled as he finished.

"Like hell you are!" Arcturus shouted out his voice course. "Don't be daft Krotos! Did you see what happened this evening when we get people involved with our affairs? What happens to you when you have not been outside the city walls as an adventurer or a soldier?" He gestured to Feku, with a thrust of his finger, causing her to squeak in a brief alarm. "We already have a bloody kobold. I am not putting you at ri-"

"Now you listen here Arcturus!" Krotos pushed forward, thrusting his chest feathers against the paladins armor and placing his beak right onto his nose. Veledar almost strode forward with his teeth bared at the gryphon, but he fought that instinct and instead inched closer towards the two. Just in case.

"I lost him tonight too!" And I will not stand her with my talons up my backside watching you leave, knowing I could make a difference! So you can shut that little pitiful excuse for a beak and let me go. Cause frankly? Krotos ruffled his feathers and flicked his tail. "I am not asking. I am telling you I am going."

"Well frankly I am the one in charge who decides who is allowed to-" Veledar spoke, placing a paw to his scaled chest.

"Fine!" Arcturus through up his hands, and interrupted Veledar, to a snort of his disapproval. "Fine if you want to be.-"

Lyndis stifled the human by placing a hand quickly over his mouth, letting him just shout into it. "We would be glad to have you along Krotos." The rogue smiled, gesturing back to the others, and than to Veledar. The dragon narrowed his eyes but nodded in agreement. The gryphon was enjoyable to have around at least.

"Besides." Krotos pulled his head back from Arcturus, and gestured to Merlia with his beak. "I think some of your team might need me at the present time as well."

Merlia just nodded without a word when Arcturus turned to look at her. She walked over and gently brushed one of her hands through the gryphon's blue feathers. "Lad.." She said, her voice low, and lacking the usual joy or anger that was usually present. "I want Krotos to come as well. I tink it will be good for the both of ya." Veledar watched Arcturus look to all of his minions and finally to the him. His eyes full of questions and pain.

Veledar nosed his head with his snout and then gave him a nod. "He is fun to have around Arcturus." He chuckled swishing his tail. Arcturus replied with a sigh, and nodded to the gryphon. Than finally mounted up onto Veledar's saddle without another word.

With Arcturus snugly on his back Veledar glanced back to his human and the princess that were going to be riding with him in the sky these eve. Arcturus had placed his helmet back upon his head, and despite not being able to see this face Veledar knew he had a look of sorrow painted on his face. He swished his tail as he felt the wave of sorrow flow from the paladin and wash over his scales. _Don't worry Arcturus._He spread his wings and glanced back to the sky. He hoped down the marrow of his bones that the joys of flying would help cast away the dark thoughts that troubled the human so. _Possibly even help me keep my mind off of the damn book._He spread his wings wide, and jumped off the ship with a mighty leap. He heard Shandalar give her carpet the order to rise, followed by Feku squealing in delight. He gave a few flaps until the were some distance away from the ship, and the city that had plagued them so over the past few days.

"So were to Arcturus?" The dragon arched his head back to peak a glance again at the mortals on his back. "Or I could always just fly us in any direction until I grow tired." He added trying to mask his disdain for having to go stay at a house built upon the misfortune of dragon kind.

"That way." Arcturus pointed southwards towards the vast mountains in the distance, passed the rolling hills, the scattered forests, and far away from the city of light.

"Entis...Good riddance!" Lyndis shouted out, mirroring the dragons own thoughts on the matter. She followed up with a string of curses in elven than made a smile come to his snout. Arcturus however said nothing as the wind battered against them, filling Veledar with the joys of flight. He glanced back to see his friends on gryphon, or magic carpet. His gaze falling to Arcturus. Don't worry Arcturus...Everything will be better....I know it..