Legends of Belariath

Salina Kyle

The Dragon's Bride

”Shalla, look out!”

The dragon played us well. Feigning pain, and weakness, he brought us in close. In an instant the joy of victory was snatched from our group. Dragon claws wrapped around my armored body as I struggled, but to no avail. Dirt kicked up, as his massive wings beat the air. The ground fell away with nauseating speed. Roaring in triumph, the black dragon flew for the rising sun. Helplessly, my companions watched us grow small in the distance.

My arms were pinned to my sides. The sword I’d gotten from my father fell somewhere over a forest, leaving me with a dagger and a few lock picks. My armor was dented, and getting bent in his huge claws. I squirmed in a vain attempt to wiggle free. Ducking his head, and lifting me up, the dragon studied me with one glowing eye. He snorted, then tightened his grip just a tad more. My breathing became restricted. My heart thudded in my chest, as I gasped for air. Eyeing me once more, the creature loosened his grip to allow me to breathe, and turned back to his flight.

We soared high into the clear azure sky. Underneath us, the land blurred, green, tan, and browns of ripening fields. Ahead, the dragon flew toward a range of mountains, gray and foreboding in the distance. Only one range of mountains lay in this direction, the Terren Range, home to trolls, dark elves, and dwarfs. It would seem the range also housed one evil black dragon. My chances of escaping were getting slimmer, when our destination came into view. No ledge, only an opening in the side of what appeared to be a dead volcano. Ducking his head, and pulling in his wings, the dragon soared in, barely slowing. The ride became inky darkness, as we entered a tunnel, spiraling down. My strict warrior training kept me from screaming, though my stomach lurched several times. The dragon entered a huge cavern, and still he went down through another chamber and into his lair. Magic balls of light shone piles of gold and platinum, more then enough to buy several kingdoms. Armor, swords, and other weapons, some I didn't recognize, lined the walls.

Backwinging, the dragon began to slow. The air crushed from my lungs as his hind legs caught a ledge hopping forward a little. With me firmly in one clawed hand, the dragon pushed treasure around, searching for something. I took the opportunity to try slipping from my armor but it did no good. A thin trail of smoke trickled from his snout. Snorting, the creature lifted me up toward the ledge pulling a golden cage forward with his other hand. The inside had a lining of burgundy velvet. It occurred to me this pen hadn’t been designed to hold birds or animals. Its structure, with its bed of silk pillows, was meant for something larger… like a human! Trembling, I fought his hold desperate not to be put in the glittering cell. Casually, he shoved me into the enclosure, the cage door closing and locking magically. His great neck had to bend, almost in two, to allow one glowing reddish black eye to study me. The ellipse pupil opened then closed. He took a moment to stretch his huge body and wings. The dragon's teeth were the size of long swords. Smoke billowed from his yawn, then a small spurt of flame, brimstone tinting the air. On a nest of gold and jewels, the creature settled down to sleep. Glowing eyes regarded me, till they finally closed. In the absolute silence on the gigantic room, his sigh of contentment reached me.

Looking around the cage, my mind began considering escape. The cage door was built into the top. The bars were smooth gold, and well polished. My hands worked to unlace my leg protectors. It’d be impossible to climb with them on. After some consideration, I left my chest plate on. If this worked, it might be needed. Coins shifted around the dragon, and my body froze. His snoring remained soft, steady in rhythm. The cage sat back on the ledge with coins, gems and other treasure surrounding me. My companions would be interested in this place.

”That is assuming I escape to tell them,” I said, softly. The pick went between my teeth, the gritty taste of metal turning my stomach. My hands paused, as I thought it over. Whatever that evil creature had in mind, it’d bring only pain, and suffering. I had no intention of staying to find out. My arms stretched, muscles bunched in concentrated effort to pull me up. Slowly, my hands slid down the bar. Cursing like my sword trainer, if only under my breath, my gloves fell to the floor of the cage. They were a present from my brother. The dragon shifted again bringing my worried gaze to him. Coins and gems slid across the stone floor. My body inched up the bars hand over hand, maddeningly slow to my mind. It was tempting to remove the bulky chain mail, but one had to be practical. Swords could be found around the treasure, but armor to fit a woman, not likely. My eyes locked onto the nearing door judging the lock from a distance to prepare myself. My legs wrapped around the bar, with my feet locking. Sure I would fall at any moment, my eyes scanned the lock. Truly, Genna would be better at this task. The gentle Half-Elf had taken great pains to teach me the art of opening locks. In truth, my hands were too clumsy to master such a delicate work. Studying the lock, no traps could be seen. Hopefully this meant no traps were present. My captor shifted in his sleep, bringing my eyes to him. He turned over scattering more coins and gems about but slept, peacefully. With great care, the pick entered the shiny lock of platinum taking several moments to feel the mechanism. A light glow surrounded the lock as my pick disappeared from my hand. A magical trap!

”Hey, someone's trying to pick me!” shouted a voice. Cursing rotten luck, I let go on the bar, and dropped to the floor of the cage. The dragon rose from his nest to cross the chamber.

”Trying to leave my company so soon,” he rumbled. Rebelliously, I glared up at the monster. He studied my defiant stance in stony silence. The glowing of his eyes brightened, a globe of red-black energy forming around my body. Horrified, I watched my armor melting away to be replaced with a sheer gown of black silk, riding boots became soft slippers. Lastly, deep red tresses fell loose about my shoulders.

”Much better, I should have taken the toys from you sooner,” he rumbled, “You'll be much more comfortable out of that hard metal, and much more agreeable to look upon.” The cage was hung from a hook in the ceiling. He returned to his bed to shove coins around with his nose. The dragon made himself comfortable in his shiny bed of precious metals and stones, some melted together to form. Soon, he snored in content slumber in his dark lair. Even the leg plates were gone from where I’d dropped them. Weaponless, I could only bide my time, and hope for a chance to escape to present itself.

*********

”Awaken, my dear,” the dragon rumbled.

”I am not your dear, monster,” I growled, jumping to my feet.

”Would you prefer me to call you Pet?” he asked.

”If address me you must, I will answer only to Swordlady from you,” I returned. Foul sulfur wafted over me, as he bent close to the cage.

”Quite the hardened warrior,” he rumbled, taking the cage from its hook to place it on the ground. My body tensed in suppressed rage. When the cage door opened, I was prepared to hike this wretched gown up, and run like the wind. My host had other plans. With great ease, the black dragon wove magic energies about himself. Flesh folded in as his body rippled in the dark power. His great tail faded away, magic fires consuming his huge mass. In a moment, a man stood before the cage dressed as the nobility of Caimden. His black hair had the style of nobles. He looked quite handsome, and would fit into any royal court in the kingdom. He opened his eyes, the truth shown in the reddish black glint and the reptilian shape of his pupils.

”And now, we shall enjoy dinner together,” he said. The cage door would open, and I would be free. We stared at one another for a few moments in silent challenge. The dragon placed a hand on the cage door.

”Change.” To my shock, the cage began to glow. In a shimmer of power, it shrank down into a golden collar about my throat. The golden chain rested in the dragon's hand.

”So that you won't be foolish and try to leave my abode,” he said, with a rich bass tone that mocked the dragon's true form. ”There are many evil beings that would make short work of a woman in your attire.” I followed the demon from his lair, wondering how I might get this collar from my neck or the tether from his hand.

The dinning hall had elegance to shame royalty. Great tapestries of avid hunts graced the walls. Three chandeliers of diamonds shone with the soft, non-flickering light of magic. From the corner, behind my seat, a group of unseen players entertained us with music. The tablecloth had the feel of silk. The table was graced with a centerpiece of Maiden's Vow, a flower that took pains to grow. Never had I seen so many in one place. The dinnerware had the markings of the finest maker in Caimden. The flatware of gold also came from Caimden. A pattern formed that frightened me.

”You should eat up, my dear,” he said, as his young servant placed more meat on his plate. ”I have brought you only the best.”

”I’m not your dear, creature,” I retorted, shoving the plate from me, “and I don’t wish to dine with a monster of evil.” His silver haired serving girl picked up my fork from the floor. For several moments, the dragon remained silent. His hand went to the golden tether never far from his reach. Our eyes were interlocked in a battle of wills.

”Pick up your fork,” he ordered, his hand resting on the chain. My trembling hand fought but was forced to obey him. ”Now your knife.” Again, I did as he commanded. A piece of meat cut away to rise to my mouth. Carefully, teeth chewed on the succulent venison washing it down with sweet wine.

”We can continue this for the entire meal, if you'd like,” he said. Glaring at the arrogant beast, I cut the next bite freely. Smiling, he went back to his own plate.

We ate in silence for a short while. The gentle music did little to lift the tension. A moment of true silence came when the music paused, then the music began anew. Choking, my hand put the wine glass down. The silk napkin did nothing to cover my shock. The ballad they played was well known to me though I’d only heard it once in my lifetime. It played in the high court of Caimden, and then only during a coronation or the coming of age of a member of the royal family. None, but the royal musicians were to know it. A spell protected the knowledge from all others.

”Is something wrong, my dear?” asked the dragon. Over the flowers, I glared at him, but remained silent.

”There is a land known as Caimden,” he said, casually. ”I'm sure a warrior of your experience is well familiar with it.” Silence answered him, and the sound of power music. Laughing at my paling face, he went on with his ‘tale’.

”The kingdom was founded back when the world still lie new and unspoiled. The man to form this kingdom was known to all as Fendelan the Honest. He felt that his land would be better then others. He wanted a people held to be honest, and good. As he was a powerful Magi, the man had little trouble in insuring this wish. He cast great magic onto his land. All within, or born of the kingdom of Caimden were bespelled. Should they tell less then the complete truth all the land that they held would be destroyed. Of course, he expected his descendants to hold with his honesty, and truth. To the kings and queens of his get, the spell held even greater danger. Should any break this oath of truth, the entire kingdom, and all within, would be destroyed.” My hands were clutched tightly in my lap. The dragon studied my ashen face. His eyes sought mine, but I dared not look upon him.

”Your companions know you as Shalla,” he said, “but I wonder if any know the truth of their pretty swordlady.” He knew me deepest secrete, one none of the companions had never guessed. This monster knew it all making my heart fear like no other living thing could.

”You’re Shallaline the Brave, aren't you?” Silence could be the only answer as he gloated triumphantly over my trembling form.

”It’ll do you no good,” I snarled, jumping to my feet. ”My father will disown me. You'll get no ransom.”

”Ah, Milady, you misunderstand,” he said, moving to stand by me. ”I have no want for ransom. As you can see, I have more treasure then any mortal could imagine.” Confused, I wondered what he truly wanted, if not more gold. ”I want so much more. It is my intention to rule the Kingdom of Caimden at your side.”

”Never!” I shouted, “My father will never give you the Kingdom.”

”It’s not in his hands,” said the dragon. A great dread of dark truth gleamed in his glinting eyes but it couldn't be what I feared. ”I seem to have neglected to tell you. Greyan the Wise died, not one day gone.”

”No! Its' not possible.” I cried, jumping to my feet in rage, “I’d know if my father had passed on.”

”I spelled you first, when you were sick with the Sunfever four years gone,” he said, in a tone of gloating amusement. ”A spell that I might know where you were, and to block the knowledge of death from you. You see I have been planning this for quite some time.” The beast gave me time to consider his words. The music continued to play in slow mournful tones to my ears. My father was dead? The kingdom faced great peril as tears traced slowly down my pale cheeks dripping from my chin. I sank back into my chair trying to think passed the pain.

”You may mourn your father's passing at another time. For now, there are more pressing matters to be attended to.” Clogged with grief, my mind couldn't think clearly.

”I know that the traditional gown for your Kingdom is pink or white, but your gown will be made of the finest black silk.”

”Gown?”

”Why yes. Your wedding gown… We’ll be married in your high court, and then you’ll be crowned queen, and I will be your lawful consort, and mate.”

”Married to you! Never!” I hissed. Picking up my plate, I shattered it upon his head. Painfully tight, his hands bit into my arms, sure to leave great bruises. Kicking him in the shins, and then higher, did no good. The dragon drew me close, his presence overpowering in its evil stench. Glowing red eyes glared down into my eyes.

”I’ll never be married to you, monster,” I hissed once more. ”Death would be more welcome then to spend one night as your bride.”

”Perhaps,” he said, “but you will be my wife. I ask you to marry me with due respect for your position. If you refuse then that leaves only one other choice. How well do you know that laws that govern your lands?” He asked a strange question coming from one who had obviously studied them at great length.

”There is an ancient law, not used for two hundred years, but still on the Peacemaker's books. The law states should a woman conceive a child out of marriage, the one found to be father of the child will be declared her husband, and responsible for woman and child.” He stopped to let the words sink into my mind. Hungrily, his gaze darted over my face, and body, so well displayed in the gown he’d placed on me. Unnoticed by him, my hands reached back on the table.

”You can either be married to me with honor,” he growled, “or I’ll take you before all your court with my child in you, and have us declared mated. The choice is yours.”

”I'll never marry you!” My hands came forward with the table knife. With rage, and hatred, I plunged the blade into his chest. At least, I tried. He caught my wrists, and easily held them back. The dragon tore the puny blade from my hands to toss it onto the table. Grabbing my shoulder, the beast wrapped the golden chain about me pinning my arms to my sides.

”If this is how you wish it to be,” he snarled. Their armor glowing, three dark elves entered the hall at their master’s bidding.

”Take Shallaline to her quarters,” he ordered, handing me over to them. ”I hope time to think over your situation will bring you to your senses. If not, - I'll have to persuade you.” The elven men dragged me from the chamber kicking and fighting as much as I could.

*********

The room held great beauty, rich scenes of battles, and hunts gracing the walls. The ceiling held a mural of the High Citadel of Caimden with the gardens in full bloom. As if to counter this beauty, devices of torture and pain lay on hooks on the walls next to the paintings. I had thought to use one as a weapon, or at least to end my life. Though they seemed solid, my hand passed through the chains. Perhaps they were illusions meant to frighten me.

The door to the chamber opened, bringing me around. He stepped in, followed by his servant. In the girl's face I saw a pity making my heart fear all the more. She sat a tray of fruits, cheeses, and wine down on the table, and then left me alone with my captor. Walking around the room, the dragon studied the scenes, his hands on his powerful hips.

”Truly magnificent work, don't you think?” he asked in a friendly if sickening sweet tones. I did not respond to his inquiry knowing he meant no kindness or true interest in the works. Turning from his contemplation of the works of exquisite art to come toward me. ”I brought the greatest artists from Caimden to prepare this room for you.” He stopped with me just out of reach though his eyes glared at me.

”I’ve given you time to consider your choices,” he said, in a tone that might’ve intimidated some women. ”I hope you’ll be sensible. Will you marry me, or no?” Taking a deep breath, I steeled my body for whatever evil act my response would ignite but there could be only one answer.

”I’ll never consent to be your wife, monster” I hissed, prepared for him to attack. The dragon surprised me by turning from me to go to the table. He opened the wine cask, and poured two goblets of rich red wine.

”My name is Kayshan, Shallaline,” he said, turning toward me. ”I would that you use it.”

”I choose not to obey you, monster,” I hissed. He took a drink from his goblet, and held the other out to me.

”You didn’t eat well. I'm sure you’ll like this wine. It comes from the same vineyard as the wine at dinner. It’s the one your father gets his wine for the royal court.” He stepped to me, a soft smile on his face, offering the glass of fragrant liquid.

”My views of you haven’t changed,” I growled, with a snort of disgust. ”I’d perish of thirst before drinking with you.” He sighed in the long slow manner of a teacher with an ignorant student, setting down the crystal goblets. Going to a wall, he picked up a leather cat-o-nine tails, the leather snapping in the air to bring a shudder to my spine.

”Lady Shallaline, you insist on calling me a monster, and yet I have done nothing, but try to respect you, and your station-“

”If you wish to respect me, than set me free,” I growled steeling myself for what was sure to be torture coming. The cat-o-nine tails hissed through the air snapping with a loud report.

”I'm afraid I can not, Shallaline,” he said, his lips curling into a knowing smile at my flushed face. ”My heart is set that I’ll be your mate one way or the other.” With an air of disregard, he placed the device in his belt. Frightened as I was, I tried not to show it to this evil creature. Kayshan moved very fast, faster then a mortal man could’ve. With ease, he trapped me against the wall. All my skill in fighting went for naught against his magical strength. His lean, well muscled body pressed against me letting his scent of spice and mint wash over me. He seemed to like what he felt for he rubbed his hips against my waist. I could feel his sex coming to life.

”No!” I cried, sinking my teeth into his shoulder. The dragon grunted in surprise as my teeth drew his bitter blood. Slamming my body to the stone, his hands held my shoulders to the wall.

”You can’t stop me, Shallaline” he hissed, “Will you change your mind?”

”Never,” I growled gathering my strength. I watched blackish green blood run down his arm by the growing stain on his fancy shirt. One tear traced down my white cheek but I allowed no others in my desire to remain strong in the face of my enemy.

”Perhaps I can change your mind, Shallaline.” With a word of command from my holder, my gown vanished leaving me naked before him. Kayshan forced my wrists up, and placed them in irons. His eyes dark, full of hate, he stepped away from me. Defiant to the bitter end, I spit at the dragon/man hitting his face. His hand wiped the spittle from his cheek, drawing the cat-o-nine tails from his belt to snap in the air. Without hesitation, the evil beast struck me five quick blows over my breasts. Fire burst over my tender flesh as his whip kissed me. Sweat dripped from my face, but no sound came from me. Smiling at my slow tears I couldn’t stop, he laid in without hesitation spreading a blaze of agony down to my thighs. My head tossed back and forth as I fought my need to scream not wanting to give him the satisfaction of my torment. The pain became unbearable even to my warrior-trained mind.

Fire raged over my sweat soaked body as each toss of my head left the pillows damper.

”Noooooooo!” I screamed, my eyes still tightly shut.

”Shalla, its all right, you're safe,” said a soft voice.

”Don't touch me, fiend,” I cried fighting the gentle strength that held me.

”Its' me, Shalla. I'm Grandor,” the deep said, in desperate plea. ”Please, open your eyes, my love.” Slowly, I opened my eyes fluttered open to glance around in great fear. I lay in a large feather bed that seemed familiar to me. A hand spun quilt covered my pain filled body, its soft weight familiar to me. The large windows showed Bryer Lake in a beautiful frozen picture of winter. Though confused, I knew this place from the many times I’d come here to rest after long adventures. Looking up, my eyes filled with tears of relief.

”Grandor, is it really you?” I whispered my voice hoarse as it felt like daggers pierced my throat. A fire raged over my exhausted, sweat covered form. He placed a cool rag on my forehead, smiling at me in tender love. He was a Barbarian of the Greth tribe. Twice the size of all the sky, Grandor's heart beat with kindness, and love.

”You've given us quite a scare, my young swordlady,” he said in his deep gentle tones. ”Your fever dreams must be torture.”

”Fever dreams?” I asked, trying to sit up only to find my body to weak.

”No you don't,” he said, gently pushing me back down. ”You’ve been sick with the Sun Fever for the past three days. Healer Jaxom says you’ll have the fever for a while yet.”

”Sun Fever?” Could it have been a horrible dream? ”We didn't fight a black dragon?”

”You cried out about the dragon,” Grandor said, freshening the rag with cool water. ”Something about your father being dead. It worried you so, that Genna went to WinterKnight and checked on him. She said he wants you to come home as soon as you’re able to travel.”

”WinterKnight… my father's house,” I said, slowly, “I would like to go home… and rest.”

”Just as soon as Healer Jaxom says you’re able,” he said, smiling down at me, his eyes filled with love. ”I can't loose you, my love.” Dark brown eyes gazed at me with some desire. An uncontrollable need filled my sore body. The dream still lingered, and I wanted to drive it away.

”Grandor, aren't you afraid of catching the Sun Fever?” I asked in the coyest voice I could muster in my condition.

”There is naught on this glorious world I fear, save the Gods of Old,” he said, thumping his chest in that way that always brought a smile to my lips. ”I told the others I’d keep you till you were well enough to travel. Are you thirsty, love?” My mouth did seem so very dry. Taking more strength then I’d thought it would, I managed to nod my head. With tender love, he lifted my shoulders, and placed the goblet to my lips. Cool, sweet wine slipped down my sore, swollen throat. A sharp bitter after taste caused me to gasp. Grandor looked down at me, his eyes suddenly unreadable, almost dark in intent.

”Forgive me, love,” he said, stroking my cheek. ”I forgot to warn you about the herb the healer placed in the wine. They’ll help you gain strength.” His touch brought back the memory of the dragon.

”Grandor,” I cried, clinging to him in desperate fear. ”I'm afraid. The dream-“

”Easy, Shalla,” he said, smiling at me. ”So long as I live no creature under our sun will bring you harm. I swear it.” He lay down with me, comforting me in my terror. Only the blankets were between us. I wore nothing under the covers, not unusual when one was sick as I. Squirming to get as close to my lover as I could, I felt him coming to life under his loin cloth. Gently, I touched him bringing a soft sigh from him.

”Are you sure you want to do this, Shalla?” he asked softly. My hands pulled the covers away from me.

”The dream haunts me, Grandor,” I said, softly, my wet eyes begging him. ”I want you to drive the memory away.” His lips met mine in explosive hunger. His hands traveled over my body bringing pleasure to drive out the pain. With gentle care, Grandor slipped between my thighs. My eyes were growing blurry again, the dragon’s countenance floating above me.

”Are you sure you want this, Shalla?” he asked again, with great concern. I answered by pulling my body up to meet him. With a smile of satisfaction, Grandor entered my body slowly at first. He used careful, gentle strokes, building me up in gradual pace. As our union grew more passionate, my vision grew twisted. The inn’s room faded in and out of my sight. Grandor thrust faster leaning down to kiss me with growing passion. As I cried out in pleasure, so too, did he. Horror gripped my very soul as my eyes opened to look at the one using me. It was not Grandor that lay on me, but one I wanted to believe didn’t exist. The dragon got up, still laughing and stalked from the room.

Sobbing, I tried to stand, but my body was too weak. The room faded in, and out of my confused sight, my head spinning in fast circles. What was happening to me? Was this yet another fever dream? My hands clutched at the bed covers. Pain floated up and down my chest, and stomach, even down into my thighs.

”Grandor,” I moaned, wanting my love to soothe away this terror haunting me. From somewhere faraway, I could hear his voice calling to me. Weakly, I managed to curl into a ball. My lips moaned the name of my true love over, and over in my fear.

”Shallaline,” a voice called. My eyes opened slowly to see light surrounded the bed. A fresh breeze carried the scent of Dove flowers in bloom.

”What?” I whispered in disbelief.

”Shallaline,” called the voice. ”Come sit with me.” The pain in my body faded away. Slowly, I stood up, confusion at the sudden release of my pain filled body. Music beckoned me, and much to my surprise I followed in like a rope pulled at me.

He sat on a hillside in bloom with fragrant flowers. A blanket covered the grass to give a comfortable place to sit. He stood, smiling at me in welcome. His hair hung in silver braids with jewels, and feathers bedecking each. His eyes were the color of brilliant sapphires, and seemed to glow from within.

”Come, Shallaline, sit with me.” His voice seemed to flow around me in a gentle caress. Enchanted, I sat down beside him, my mind not caring that he shouldn’t be here. His hand touched my cheek tenderly.

”Is this another fever dream?” I asked in confusion. He smiled at me with a tender look on his handsome face of silver tone.

”If that’s what you wish to believe,” he said, handing me a goblet of red wine. ”Rest yourself, and I’ll read to you, milady.” Startled, I accepted the glass. He patted the blanket next to him, and I moved over having no real choice though I didn’t really fight the compulsion.

”I wonder what I should call you,” I said, in light mockery. ”After all, it’s not every day a woman has a dream of such a handsome man as you.”

”I think I like the name of Sildon, my lady,” he said, bowing his head in serious respect.

”Then Sildon it is.” Sildon made sure my head rested comfortably in his lap. Sure that it was naught but another dream, I lay back and listened as he read poetry from poets I had read in my youth. Once in a while, he would give me more wine, or a piece of cheese, or fruit. We spent what seemed like all afternoon in this.

Sildon finished the third scroll, then set them aside. My eyes popped open surprised he’d stopped. Sildon filled my goblet again, then one for himself.

”You’re very beautiful, Shallaline,” he said, laying his hand on mine.

”Thank you, Sildon,” I said, drinking deeply the wonderful wine. ”You read very well.”

”Thank you, my lady,” he replied. He leaned over and kissed my lips. Shocked at first, I didn't know how to react. He took my silver goblet, and with his, they disappeared from his delicate hand. The soft gown I wore, and his clothing melted away gently. His hands pulled me closer but I couldn’t resist his insistent mouth.

”What-“ I began, but he kissed me into unresisting silence.

”If this is naught, but a dream,” he said, smiling, “then you have nothing to fear.” For some reason, I couldn't argue the point. Thoughts of Grandor entered my mind, but were swept away by the passion Sildon invoked. His hands brought a flurry of need to my body I’d never imagined possible.

”Join with me, Shallaline,” he said, his eyes filled with need. ”If only in your dreams.” My body responded to his illicit touch, his hands invoking passion. He entered my body with tender care but great passion.

”I-I-I” I tried to speak, but the words wouldn't come.

”Shhh, my beauty,” he whispered in my ear. ”Feel the pleasure, and enjoy the moment.” We embraced in heated delight driving all other thoughts from my mind.

The loving seemed to last for only a brief time. Sildon lifted his head, and glanced about.

”It is time for me to part, my dear,” he said, standing. It was as though nothing had passed between us. Hurt, I tried to stand, but failed.

”I don't understand,” I said, struggling weakly. Sildon bent over to kiss me once more.

”This is naught but a dream, remember,” he said, smiling. ”I’ll come and comfort you again… If you wish me to.” Mentioning the dream put my mind back into perceptive.

”A fever dream, of course,” I said, feeling the pain sink back into my body. ”I’ll have to tell Grandor of this most unusual fever dream.” Sildon's face darkened a little somewhat, confusing me with his sudden dire look.

”You might be better advised not to,” he said, “After all, you wouldn't want him to get jealous.” That was a strange thing for a dream to say. Before I could question him, Sildon, and the hillside faded. Only the smell of flowers lingered to me.

*********

The haze covered my mind for a time turning thoughts away into jumbled chaos. My sight cleared to reveal a very distressed Grandor.

”Forgive me, my beloved,” he moaned, stroking my sweat soaked cheek. ”I didn't mean to hurt you. I swear this on my honor.” He held me close softly kissing my lips, his tears running down his cheeks to drop on my face.

”It’s all right, Grandor,” I whispered, trying to comfort my love. ”It wasn't your fault.”

”She speaks the truth,” said another voice. Healer Jaxom came into my view from the shadows of the room. ”She is very sick, my son, but you didn’t harm her when you coupled with her. I suspect it comforted her more then anything else.” Shock swept through my mind, my mouth falling open in disbelief.

”Thank you, wise one,” Grandor said, his head bowing for a moment in respect. ”I’m glad you’re here to help Shalla. I’d be lost without you.” This was wrong, very wrong. Healer Jaxom and Grandor despised one another. They would never speak kindness to each other. Jaxom would call Grandor an uncivilized dog. My love would call the healer a pompous weed grower. Healer Jaxom came to my side and smiled down at me, his hand going to my sweaty forehead.

”You’re doing much better, my child,” he said, softly touching my cheek. ”You’ll be up in no time.” That exchange tore it for me leaving no doubt in my clouded mind. This couldn't be real. Jaxom was a healer from my father's court and knew me to be a princess. It irritated my father Jaxom refused to address me as anything less then 'My Lady'. Something was terribly wrong here, and I feared the truth. My heart began to race as terror swept over my sore body. They noticed my distress nearly at once.

”What's the matter, my love?” Grandor asked, his eyes growing worried looking down at me.

”I-I-I,” I stammered. I couldn't let them know that I suspected the truth of this situation.

”Shalla, are you all right?” my lover asked concern entering his voice.

”I’m confused,” I said, forcing the words from my mouth. ”Just tired… The dreams have exhausted me.” My ‘healer’s’ lips twisted into a smile I didn’t know, a look of sinister delight. He picked up the goblet holding it out to me.

”This will strengthen you, my dear,” he said, “Drink deeply.” In the guise of my love, the dragon lifted up my shoulders with a gentle smile. Looking at the blood red wine, I knew I didn't want it as it was likely what kept me so weak. How could I get out of this?

”Uh- My stomach is ill, Healer,” I said, slowly pushing the glass away. ”I don't think I should drink wine right now.” Interestingly, my stomach did feel sour. The men glanced at one another as though sharing thoughts. Suspicion lighted in their eyes.

”Shalla, I’d never ask you to drink something that’d make you loose your stomach,” Jaxom said, in a firm, insistent voice. ”Drink this and you’ll feel better… you have my word on that, child.” He pressed the glass to my lips. I wanted to resist but found I had no real choice. If they thought I knew this to be false I could loose myself again. Reluctantly, I drank the bitter brew he held to my lips. Jaxom took the drink away from my trembling lips and made a point of checking my eyes. Whatever the brew, it heated my body is a most unnatural way. As though he could sense my growing need, Grandor drew me near, his hands running over my flesh. The need seemed to double by the moment with each of his strokes. The healer smiled in pleasure at my moan of surrender kissing the ‘barbarian’ passionately.

”I’ll leave you two to rest,” Jaxom said, going to the door. ”If you feel like coupling, Shalla, you should. It’ll help your body to recover.” The door opened with a creek, then, groaning in protest, closed once more. My sharp hearing seemed to hear a lock being turned.

Grandor kissed the back of my neck in a spot he used to tempt me. A lust poured over me no matter how hard I fought, small shudders played over my body. I didn't want to couple with this one that wasn't the man I loved.

”What's wrong, Shalla?” Grandor asked, his lips pressing against my neck.

”I just wish to sleep, Grandor,” I said, trying to pull away a little without rising his suspicion. ”I’m very tired, my love.”

”I shall hold you while you rest, my dearest one,” he said, drawing me close to his body. We lay in silence for a short while, but there could be no rest. As the minutes passed, I could feel the lust growing. It wouldn't give me any peace as I tried not to think about his manhood pressing against my thigh. A small moan of despair escaped my control. Grandor slipped his hand over my thigh bringing another moan. With a soft snort of amusement, the barbarian turned me over to face him. Lust glittered in my feverish eyes making him grin in what could only be evil delight.

”Let me cool your fires, my dearest,” he said, pulling the covers away from my trembling body.

”But I-“ I moaned, but the rising passions would not be denied. With ease, the man slipped between my sweaty thighs entering me swiftly. As our bodies meet clear thoughts were driven from my jumbled mind in one passionate kiss.

”That's right, my love,” he whispered in my ear. ”You want my touch… You want me to take you.” My head tossed back and forth in a vain attempt to deny his words.

”No,” I moaned. His lips went to my lips devouring them in his passion. He left marks on my throat from his teeth something my Grandor did when the heat of our love took over. The pain of illness forgotten, my body rippled with an increasing pleasure I couldn’t fight. Opening my eyes, I could see the black dragon under the skin of Grandor. My stomach grew sick at his glowing eyes gloating over my face. My hands pushed against him, but it didn't stop. Tears ran down my face, the pleasure was so intense to be coming from one I loathed. The black dragon looked down at me, his eyes growing suspicious once more. What if he realized I knew the truth? Quickly, my lips pressed against his chest.

”Oh Grandor,” I moaned, pressing closer to him. ”It feels so good.” It sickened me to have to admit my body’s weakness to this monster in the likeness of one who held my heat.

”I’ll drive the sickness from your body, Shalla,” he whispered in my ear kissing my lips over and over. ”We’ll couple for as long as it takes to make you well.” The thought of submitting my body to his creature terrified me, yet I couldn’t risk him finding out the truth. We came together time after time, nothing stopping him from his carnal fun. At some point in that ever present now I realized a horrible truth. I’d become pregnant.

The false Grandor plied me with wine and food. The coupling went on for what seemed like days passing as hours. It occurred to me that my perception of time was wrong. In this strange place time wasn’t passing, as it should. Another symptom of whatever the dragon had done to me. It was with great relief; I finally drifted to 'sleep'. The moment that happen, I forced my eyes to open. It was 'that' room from the black dragon’s lair. The room the dragon had imprisoned me in, the window and other trappings of my room at Bryer fading away. My body was very weak though not in the same as it was when the dragon was in the room. My hand pulled aside the covers to reveal nearly healed whip marks on my chest and lower.

”Sildon,” I called, quietly at first. ”Sildon, I need you.” It was a great risk to take but I had to know the truth. My heart told me Sildon wasn't the black dragon in another disguise. All my hopes rested on the silver haired man that he might help me escape this prison. I called softly for several minutes fearing when he didn’t answer me at once.

”You said you’d comfort me,” I cried, in desperation and fear. ”Please, Sildon, I need you.” Once more the warm light surrounded the bed bringing the smell of flowers to drift over me. As before the weakness lifted from my body nearly returning me to my full strength.

”Come, Shallaline,” Sildon called, from the illusion of a hill in spring bloom. ”Come and sit with me.” With the weakness gone, I jumped from the bed, and rushed to find him.

Sildon sat on the same hill, on the same blanket as he had before. He held a glass of wine in one hand and a scroll in the other. His handsome face had silver like tone as he smiled up at me.

”Shall I read to you, my lady?” My eyes narrowed in anger and suspicion staring at this man who’d ‘comforted’ me several times.

”Are you another vision of the black dragon?” I demanded in a tight voice of fear. My demand brought the man up short to stare up at me.

”My lady?” he asked, cautiously.

”Are you the black dragon in an illusion?” I hissed, my fear showing in my tightly clinched hands. His eyes widened in shock realizing I wasn’t slurring my words. He dropped the wine and the scroll jumping to his feet, his eyes locking on mine.

”By the first egg, your mind is free,” he said, in disbelief. My hands bit into his shoulders as I shook him with all the might of terror at my condition.

”You're not the black dragon,” I growled, as he tried to get me to let go without hurting me. ”Who are you? Why have you been coupling with me?” Guilt flooded his serene face taking a haunted look.

”I’m Sildon. I’m trying to save you from Kayshan,” he said, hedging most notably to my clear mind.

”I’m with child,” I growled in barely contained rage. ”The best thing you can do is to help me die before that evil bastard figures it out.” The declaration of my condition brought him up short.

”Are you sure?” he whispered, in obvious distress. My hand placed his hand against my stomach letting him feel movement.

”Will you help me die?” I demanded, his face going white in disgust.

”My lady, I could never help one take her own life,” he said, then caught my hand in a tight grip. ”We must escape before Kayshan returns. Come.” The illusion of the hill disappeared as he pulled me to the door.

”Escape? How?” He smiled at me in a sad sort of way. His hand gently touched my cheek a brief moment bringing me a strange comfort. Somehow his very touch reassured me though I couldn’t decide why.

”Nothing is as it seems here, Lady Shallaline,” Sildon said, “Not even me.” We hurried through the halls avoiding the guards easily. Sildon knew how to slip by the dark elves attracting no attention to our passage. We made it to the entry cavern unchallenged.

”What now, Sildon?” I asked, breathless with the fear Kayshan would return and retake me. The young man smiled with a little sadness, his eyes beginning to glow with a silver light.

”Now, we leave,” he said. Moving away from me a little, Sildon began to change. Shock washed over me anew as he grew larger, a tail coming into being. A great silver wings appeared spreading out to shower a silver light around his body. A silver dragon stood before me in all his glory. As Kayshan being a dragon was one thing but Sildon was a silver dragon. Why were these two creatures both coupling with me? The thought alone made my head grow light. He lowered one wing for me to climb onto his back.

”Quickly, Shallaline, we must hurry,” he said, as I didn’t move at first. ”Climb up.” My gown shimmered for a moment before becoming heavier clothing.

”Why should I trust you?” I asked, looking into the glowing blue eyes.

”Would you rather stay here?” he asked, grinning as a dragon in sad discernment. ”Who do you want to have stand with you? Him or me?” Sildon was right about one thing that I couldn’t stay in this lair. He could help me escape which might help me escape from him as well. In the end, I could get home, and find a way to stop the black dragon. I climbed onto his shoulders holding tightly to his broad neck.

”Don't be afraid,” he said, with that same sad amused tone. ”I won't drop you.” My body grasped tightly as he sprang into the cold air. Sildon's mighty wings took us up in a quick climb, making my stomach lurch. We fled Kayshan's lair knowing the evil beast would be after us when my escape was detected.

*********

Tears came to my eyes, as the sun and blue sky were most welcome. He flew toward the south but that wouldn't take us to Caimden.

”Where are you taking me?” I demanded feeling a stab of distrust for this creature that’d taken me in as much deceit as the black dragon.

”To the Valley of the Dragons, my lady,” he rumbled, his head turning to the side to let him look at me with one glowing eye. ”It’s the only safe place for you right now.”

”I want to go home,” I cried, hitting his neck with my weak fists. ”Take me home!”

”Kayshan would claim you, Shallaline,” Sildon said, in a tone of patience, like he spoke to a child. ”He would claim the child and your kingdom. Is that what you want?”

”What am I to do?” I cried. The scope of my situation came rushing down on me colder then the air whipping by me. A great sigh welled up from deep in the silver dragon.

”We’ll go to the Council and plead the child is mine,” he said, though I though I heard a tone of despair in his voice. ”We’ve coupled when Kayshan has been away. The child could very well be mine… If they decide I’m the father, then we’ll be declared mates. It’s the only way to save your kingdom from Kayshan’s evil intents. Nothing else will be able to keep him from claiming you. Kayshan is very sure of his plan but silver dragons are much more fertile then black dragons. Do you understand what I am saying?” We were silent for several minutes. That the silver dragon spoke the truth didn't comfort me at all.

”I understand, Sildon,” I said, with a tone of bitterness deeply felt. ”I have no choice.” A cold silence fell over us as we winged through the sky.

We flew for a couple of days passing over field of ripening crops and vineyards I thought I might recognize. The dragon's endurance impressed me, as he never needed to land to rest. I didn’t seem to need to rest as well, not once did I feel I’d fallen to sleep.

”Have you cast another spell on me, Sildon?” I demanded, much sure I’d want no more magic cast on me for the rest of my life.

”No, my lady,” he said, looking over his shoulder at me. ”You seem to be drawing strength from me. Have you ever been tested for magic ability?” Magic? Me?

”Not really, I've never had any interest in mage art,” I said, as thoughts of my training with the arms master at my father’s castle came to mind. ”I take after my grandsire, Shalon the Bold. I’m a swordlady and a warrior.” The dragon snorted in amusement grinning at me.

”That doesn't mean you have no magic in your blood,” he said, with an air of sage knowledge. ”You freed your mind of Kayshan's spell of confusion… That is no easy task, milady.”

”You helped me, didn't you?” I asked. I’d thought the silver dragon had done something to help me free myself from Kayshan’s dark magic.

”Under the circumstances it was easier to let you stay in the spell,” he admitted, sounding more then a little ashamed. ”That way you wouldn't fight me, either.”

”Easier to rape someone who can't fight back,” I growled in deep rage that this creature had used me in much the same manner as the black dragon.

”Yes,” he said, matter of fact, not a hint of disgrace in his voice. ”Would you have willingly coupled with me?”

”Never,” I said knowing I’d have fought any man other then the one I loved with all my heart.

”I had to do what it would take to make my claim of fatherhood of the child as valid as possible. This could still go wrong. You must do as I say, Shallaline. The Council of Elder Wyrms is not used to having mortals in their court. We have to be careful not to anger them.”

”How will the identity of the father of the child be determined?” I asked trying to keep my mind off my deeper fears of how to escape these dragons who tried to take me from my kingdom.

”There are two ways,” Sildon said, “They can magically test the child, or Kayshan and I will do battle. The winner, of course, will get you and your kingdom.”

”And I have no say in this matter?” I growled, the rage in my voice only barely contained.

”You have no say in this manner as you’re a mortal. Though you’re a princess, you hold no power in a dragon's court. That’s the way of dragons being a greater creature then mortal men. I make no apologies for my race.”

”I don't like it, but you don't give me much choice. So you know, I have a man I love. As kind as you are, Sildon, I could never love you.”

”I know, Shallaline,” he said in a tone of some inner struggle. We spiraled down into a deep cavern lit with magic spheres and filled with the creatures of magic.

Dragons were everywhere I looked, in all the directions and looking at me with surprise. In all the tales of old, no one spoke of so many in one place at one time. It took great effort not to show my fear of the great creatures. Sildon landed on a mound of soft sand, and let me off his back. Dozens of glowing eyes watched my every move taking my breath away. A huge red dragon appeared before us glaring at Sildon. His eyes were white diamonds of light as they went from me to the young dragon. Looking at me, the elder hissed and growled at Sildon in what had to be their language. After a few moments of talk, Sildon straightened his shoulders.

”This concerns the human and her kingdom,” the silver dragon stated, trying to cover the obvious tremor in his voice. ”Under the circumstances, I believe it’d be more appropriate to use common human, Lord High Elder.” After a moment of silence, the wrym snorted sulfur smoke over me snorting as I coughed.

”This is not what you were sent to do, Sildon,” he hissed, a hand gesturing to me. ”Explain yourself at once.” Sildon took a deep breath glancing at me before clearing his voice.

”Lord High Elder, this is Shallaline. She has been Kayshan's prisoner for several months,” Sildon said. My mouth fell open in disbelief that so much time had passed. ”Shallaline is the princess of a kingdom in the east called Caimden. Kayshan planned to force her to be his mate that he might gain control of her kingdom. I believe that he had something to do with her father's death, but I haven't been able to-“

”Why should this mortal's plight concern us?” growled a white wrym, becoming visible before me as though stepping from nowhere. I closed my eyes for a moment, the illusion of Grandor in my mind. How did I see past the magic shell? My eyes snapped open to glare about me in search of the magic ‘shell’. Concentrating, I tried to 'see' around me. There were three more wryms still hiding behind a cloak of magic. Sildon looked at me again and smiled.

”This is no ordinary mortal human, Great Elder,” the silver dragon said, “Shallaline freed herself from one of Kayshan's most potent spells. She can even see through the illusions that hide the other council members.” His declaration of my ‘power’ brought a moment of silence. The red wyrm looked at me in the way I’d seen my arms master looked at a rat he’d killed.

”Is this true, mortal?” the great red dragon rumbled.

”My name is Shallaline,” I replied, looking him dead in the eye. ”Yes, I can see the others. There are three others behind you, hiding in the darkness.” Sildon flinched. ”Brown, blue and green.”

”She can see us,” said a voice like tinkling ice. The three wyrms appeared, and took their places with the other two dragons.

”Hiding indeed,” the emerald dragon huffed though he grinned at me winking.

”So she has magic,” the white dragon hissed, in a voice like thunder. ”Many mortals do. Why should we care what happens to the puny girl or her nasty little kingdom.” My rage flared at the arrogance of these creatures that set in power over my beloved Caimden and me. A retort tipped my tongue, but Sildon stopped me with a glare.

”It’s more difficult than that,” he said, in his best voice of respect. ”This is Shallaline the Brave, daughter of Greyan the Wise. Direct descendant of Fendelan the Honest. She is of Caimden.” That brought shocked silence to the cocky creatures as they looked at one another. Their change of attitude was nearly palatable.

”The Caimden?” the red dragon demanded.

”Yes, Lord High Elder,” Sildon said, glancing at me. ”Shallaline is of the line of royalty for Caimden. I believe that explains her magic skill though she is trained as a warrior.”

”This adds a different light to these proceedings,” the blue dragon said, as he looked to the other elders. ”I think-.” He never got to finish his sentence. With a might roar, Kayshan streaked down from the sky. His back wing nearly knocked me from my feet. He rumbled in the dragon’s tongue most venomously glaring at me then Sildon

”You’ll speak in common, Kayshan,” the red elder hissed.

”I charge Sildon has kidnapped my mate,” Kayshan hissed making a grand sweep of his hand at me. ”The human female carries my child in her. That makes her my mate. I demand that she be returned to me at once.” The five elders looked at one another in silence but somehow I knew they were speaking among themselves.

”Young Sildon claims the child is his,” the red elder said, in a dry voice like fire on dry leaves. Kayshan looked stunned for a moment at the strange turn of events.

”That's not possible,” the black dragon sputtered. The silver dragon swirled with energy, his form shrinking to take a familiar form. The silver haired serving girl appeared before us but Sildon could be seen as well.

”I coupled with Shallaline as many times as you,” Sildon hissed, smiling as Kayshan blanched at the truth. ”The child could well be mine. I say let the magic show who is the true father of the child.” Kayshan remained silent for a few moments. Suddenly, the black dragon roared fit to shake the ground. Flaring his wings back, Sildon answered in turn. With a spout of flame, Kayshan jumped into the air. He flew into one of the near by caves. Sildon bowed to the council before entering a different cave.

”What is happening?” I demanded. The red wyrm looked down at me with some pity turning my stomach.

”You have your ancestor's courage,” he rumbled, with something like respect. ”Kayshan has chosen to do battle with Sildon. They’ll meet at dawn and fight to the death. No quarter given.” The elder made a gesture and a young gold dragon came up. ”Take the hum- Shallaline to your quarters, and see to her needs. You’re not to leave the girl alone, Altheea.”

”Yes, Grand Elder,” the gold dragon said dropping her wing for me. ”Get on, human.” Her eyes were cold as we looked at each other. I got the impression she didn't like me. Carefully, I climbed up her wing to take a firm seat on her neck. She jumped into the air and took me to a cave on an upper level. Glancing back, I caught a glimpse of Sildon. He seemed to be looking at me in a longing manner. That didn't make much sense; the female dragon took me into her cave.

*********

With a wave of her clawed hand, Altheea made a brass canopy bed appear in the corner then dropped her wing to let me down.

”Are you hungry, human?” she asked, in a tone of barely contained hate. The question came in a polite irritation. I knew she wasn’t happy with having me as a charge… and maybe something more.

”Why do I have a feeling you’d gladly see me disappear off the face of this world?” I asked. In a shimmer of golden light, she turned herself into a human glaring daggers of rage at me.

”He is going to give his life for you, and you don't even care,” she hissed, her eyes flaring with inner power. ”You can't possibly love him.”

”If you mean Sildon, no I don't love him,” I said, in a matter of fact tone. ”I’m very grateful for what he has done to try to help me. I’d do anything to protect Caimden… You love him don't you, Altheea?” Glowing eyes filled with the fear of one who’d lost their only love.

”We were to be mated when he returned from his mission,” she said, sitting down on the edge of the bed. ”He’d find out what Kayshan was doing then come back to be with me. You’ve made it impossible for us to be together. If he dies, I will loose him. If he lives… Sildon will be mated with you, and I loose him to you… Do you blame me if I hate you?” My heart ached for the gold dragon, my heart in a similar twist of fears.

”I’m in love with a great man,” I said to her laying my hand on her shoulder. ”His name is Grandor. No other man could love me as he does. I could love no other. Sildon knows this. Is there anything we can do? Some law that’d allow Sildon to step aside if he wins?” She thought it over, but shook her head, her eyes going around the near bare cave.

”If he wins, Sildon must marry you,” she said, “That is the law.” Another thought struck me.

”When Sildon first arrived with me, no one really cared about what Kayshan was doing,” I said slowly, trying to think it through for both our sakes. ”Yet, when Sildon mentioned I was of Caimden everyone's attitude changed. Would you know why?”

”Not really,” she said, going to the mouth of the cave to look out at the dragons. ”I haven't spent much time in the archives.”

”Archives? Why would Caimden be in a dragon's archives?” She shrugged in disinterest as her mind was taken with her pain of loosing the silver dragon.

”Just after you were taken, Sildon came to the valley and spent several days in the archives,” Altheea said, as she returned to stand by me. ”He didn't tell me why.” I stood up looking very determined I wouldn’t let this mating take place if I could do anything about it.

”Maybe you and I should find out,” I said. ”It might help us find a way out of this mess.” The gold dragon returned to her natural form, her down so I could mount her back. Together we went to the dragon archives, a place no human had ever seen.

We searched deep into the night. The archives were like nothing I’d ever dreamed of, much less ever thought to see. There were scrolls dating back long before the founding of Caimden. In the end, Altheea and I were stunned to find the truth. Caimden stood in the history of dragon's as the first human/dragon coupling with child bore of the union. Because a defect in her body, Fend élan’s human mate couldn't bare children. At the time, a mature female gold dragon acted as a go between for the dragon council and the new Caimden. Caysha had fallen in love with the mage. She offered to bare his children and let all think that his mate had done it. Magic made the human mate appear pregnant at the right times. Dragon blood ran through the lines of Caimden royalty, which was what Kayshan was after. No one had even hinted a dragon had been in Fendelan's court. I had to wonder if anyone outside those involved knew what was going on. Yet, this knowledge changed nothing in our current troubles. We looked everywhere for some way to save Sildon and Caimden, but had no luck. Only a miracle could save Altheea and me.

We hurried to the battlefield almost late for the beginning. The Council of Elders stood to the side in silence as Kayshan and Sildon stood on the field of battle.

”Please, you can't do this,” I begged the red wyrm in desperation. ”The fate of my kingdom can not be decided by a battle of dragons. Is there no other way?”

”The challenge has been made, and answered,” he said, looking at the combatants. ”It’s the Law from times before humans even walked the lands. We dragons are immortal. Nothing would be sacred, if we did not respect the Law… All would fall into chaos.” He dismissed much as one would dismiss an irritating child sending me back to Altheea.

”They won't do anything,” I said, tears of hopeless running down my cheeks. ”No one can stop this battle.”

”If he wins I’ll be happy knowing he lives,” the gold dragon said, her tears dripping from her snout. ”I was wrong about you… You’re a good human, just and honorable.”

”I’ll try to make a good mate to Sildon,” I said, putting my hand on her shoulder. ”I'm sorry it had to come to this.” Her great head nodded a little though her eyes were drawn to the battle about to begin.

The young male dragons hissed and growled for several minutes most likely trying to intimidate the other. The dragons gasped some but no one bothered to translate for me. They began with magic; great bolts of lighting streaking down from the sky. Sildon hissed in pain answering in kind with his own strong powers. Flames leaped up around the black dragon. Ice and stone flew back and forth between the two. The ground opened to swallow Sildon. With stone and dirt flying, the silver dragon burst out from below. He waved his hands in an intricate pattern, his words hotly delivered to his enemy. Lava swirled around Kayshan, covering him in an instant, brimstone tinting the air enough to choke me. In a moment, the stone melted and the black dragon grinned. A cloud of acid surrounded Sildon making lesions appear over his silver hide. Jumping into the air, the silver dragon rained bolts of energy down on his enemy. With all the power the two dragons were putting out, the magic couldn't last forever. As they tired, the young dragons charged one another, claws extended and teeth bared. Blood began to fly from the great swipes of dragon claws easily ripping through hide and flesh. Kayshan sprung into the air followed quickly by Sildon.

”Sildon! No!” Altheea cried, her wings flung back knocking me to the ground in her agitation.

”What's wrong, Altheea?” I demanded, watching the dragons dance in the sky.

”Sildon is weakest in the air,” she cried, her claws digging into the sandy ground. ”In all the forms of combat, Sildon never did well in training to fight in the air.” We watched them dodge and weave in a dance of death that’d affect two races for the rest of time. Kayshan went for the silver dragon's wings and back. Blood run down Sildon's body as he cried out in great pain. The silver dragon twisted his neck to snap at Kayshan's throat. They flew apart, panting as their blood rained down on the ground below them. Kayshan roared a taunt even I could tell from the tone of his voice, seeming confident of his ability to defeat the silver dragon. They came together in a great crash, claws and teeth flashing in the light of the sun. Claws locked in death grip; Sildon wrapped his wings around the black dragon starting a deadly plunge. The gold dragon's voice cracked in a scream of panic, mine joining her as I watched the deadly plunge of the combatants toward the hard stone below, as Sildon bit into Kayshan's snout shattering it. At the last moment, Sildon flipped over to put his enemy to the ground. He threw the black dragon into the ground at impossible speeds. The silver dragon could show no mercy. He rammed his claws into Kayshan's chest, and ripped them loose. The black dragon shuddered, and then laid still, black/green blood forming a great pool of blood around his twitching body. Sildon sank to the ground next to the dead body, his own body in great pain as the blood of his vanquished foe dripping from his claws. Altheea got to him first trying to comfort her love, stroking his neck around the great wounds.

”Oh Sildon,” she cried, her head on his torn shoulder. Smiling, the silver dragon lifted his bloody nose to rub her cheek.

”Beloved,” he whispered, as I reached his side. The elders landed next to us with that superiority air I’d come to know as a dragon’s arrogance.

”Altheea!” the white wrym snapped, his clawed hand reaching out to her shoulder. ”Sildon has won the human as a mate. They’ll be declared mates, and he’ll go to her kingdom. That is the Law.” The gold dragon looked to me for help like I could say or do anything to stop this wretched act condemning both Altheea and me to lives without the ones we loved.

”Is there no other way, Great Elder?” I begged the red dragon, hoping beyond hope this dragon might show some mercy. He sighed in a low puff from deep inside as his sad glowing eyes went to the forlorn gold dragon crying bitter tears. Sildon was healed and stood up.

”There is no other way,” the wrym said, with a shake of his great head. ”The Law is the Law… Please stand together.” Healing Sildon, the silver dragon took his human form and we stood together as the elders demanded. The heart broken gold dragon cried behind us beyond consoling for what was about to be done.

”Sildon of the Valley of Dragons, you have vanquished Kayshan the black dragon,” the elder red wyrm said, raising a hand above our heads. ”By the Law of the Ancients I here by declare you-“

”Hold your hand!” shouted a deep voice. Startled that a deep human voice had cried out, we all turned around to see a most gladsome vision to my eyes. My mouth fell open in shock at the sight before me.

”Grandor!” I shouted running toward my love. The emerald dragon held me back looking more then a little confused by the appearance of my group of adventurers. Somehow the barbarian and my friends had come to the valley of the dragons, something I’d been made to understand was impossible for those other then dragons.

”Who are these humans?” the white dragon challenged. ”How dare they trespass in the dragon's valley?” Two gold dragons accompanied my dear friends looking quite uncomfortable knowing they’d be held accountable for allowing the party into the valley.

”Lord High Elder, forgive this interruption,” one said, shifting nervously. ”They carry the medallion of Caysha.” Grandor held out his hand to reveal the golden circle.

”You can’t declare these two mates,” the barbarian stated, his smile to me bringing more comfort then anything else could. ”I won’t permit it.” That made the dragons pause then snicker that a human would dare to say what a dragon could do. The elder red snorted, his eyes glowering at the man I loved in a way making my breath catch in my chest.

”And who are you to challenge these proceedings, mortal?” the great wyrm demanded.

”She already has a mate… Me.” Silence fell over the crowd at Grandor’s bold statement. My eyes widened in disbelief, as I had no idea what my love was talking about, we weren’t mates. Were we?

”Is this true, Shallaline?” the elder asked, glaring down at me. I flinched as he used my true name. My friends didn't know the truth about me. Grandor smiled as he brushed the emerald dragon aside to gently touch my cheek.

”Don't tell me you forgot our night of passion,” he said, smiling at me to bring such comfort to me after so much fear. ”I’d be quite sad if you have as we came together in such love.”

”The night before the black dragon took me,” I said, the memory of that night bringing a flush to my cheeks. ”I could never forget your touch, beloved. - Uh Grandor, we only laid together for one night.” The man laughed like only a barbarian on of the Greth tribe could when completely confident of his ground.

”One night is more then enough time,” he said, gazing into my frightened eyes. ”There’s no man or beast more fertile then one of the tribe of Greth. The child within you is mine, my little swordlady. Let the child be tested by magic.” That surprised me as all of the barbarian tribes hated the use of magic, that and I had little desire to have magic touch me after all I’d been through.

”Is this all right with you, Sildon?” The elder asked, like the silver dragon might object.

”Yes, elder,” the silver dragon said. Altheea stood by Sildon hopeful that our nightmares would finally come to an end. The red wyrm gently placed his hand on my stomach. In a moment, he went to the two males. My breath caught, as I feared Grandor might be wrong and this test could separate me from my heart’s blood for the rest of our lives. The hand on Grandor's head began to glow.

”I told you the child is mine,” my lover said grinning largely as tears ran down my cheeks. I flung myself into his arms to kiss him quite soundly. Altheea and Sildon embraced with as much passion, their necks twining about to lock them together.

”Grandor, I have so much to tell you,” I said, the time for the complete truth more then come. ”About me.” He nodded his head, a finger running down my wet cheek to my neck stroking me gently.

”That you’re a princess of Caimden and that rush,” he said, grinning down at me. ”I already know. Your father saw to it before we left to come here.”

”Father's alive?” I asked.

”Yes, princess, your father is very much alive,” Jaxom said, coming into view, “He survived the poison and let all think he had perished.” The healer placed a hand on my stomach checking my condition. Grandor squeezed me to his chest with great love. We felt the child kick inside me. The barbarian's face filled with great wonder.

”We’ll be married when we return to Caimden,” Grandor said, looking deep into my eyes. ”Shalla, we shall never be parted again. This I vow. No creature on this world will take you from me.” His great arms crushed me again in a manner I’d feared never to feel again. It felt so very good to be in his embrace.

”Keep that up and you’ll force the child from her, uncivilized animal,” Jaxom said, shaking his head in disdain.

”What would a weed pusher like you know of love anyway?” Grandor snorted. I flung an arm around each, and hugged them together.

”I’m glad you’re here, Jaxom,” I said, “I’ll be full term before we can get back to Winterknight.”

”Your father wants us to go straight to the High Citadel,” Genna said, her gentle smile warming my heart. I hugged the elf, and all my other friends. Shedalan, a dwarven fighter, rubbed his cheek as the child had chosen that moment to kick.

”I think that son of yours kicked me, Grandor,” he said, gruffly.

”A boy just like me,” my love boasted as his chest puffed out in pride.

”The Gods protect us,” the healer muttered as I tried not to giggle at this elder man of my father’s court. Taking a deep breath, I turned to the dragons. They were good-natured enough to let us have our time. Grandor and I went to Altheea, and Sildon knowing we owed the silver dragon a great debt.

”The Kingdom of Caimden is forever in your debt, Sildon,” I said, as my hand clutched Grandor’s in a grip so tight as to make my love flinch a little. ”If there is ever anything I can do for you just let me know.” The dragons smiled at one another in silent agreement of something.

”Could we be married at the High Citadel with you and your love?” Altheea asked. My eyes went to Grandor in question, as it was tradition with his people that the man chose the kind of ceremony. The barbarian laughed loud and long letting his great voice make all of the dragons shake their heads.

”It’ll be a celebration to rival any in history,” he said, taking my hand to kiss me passionately. ”We won't be able to walk for weeks.” That brought laughter all around us from people and dragons alike. The dragons agreed to fly us back to Caimden. There’d be much to celebrate in the land, my father lived and I would finally be with the one who held my heart.

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