Fantasy Broken Balance

[CreareunderCreare]

Ashe’s gaze flicked toward the drake guarding Jura, her thoughts clouded by the weight of fatigue and frustration. Her name… It eludes me. Was it Virve? The drake’s tone scrapped across her nerves like the grind of stone on stone. She withheld her instinct to lash out—barely. Politeness and her vigorous political training kept her silent until Virve’s words finally ran their course.

A sharp, knowing edge coloured Ashe’s voice as she spoke, her tone threaded with both rebuke and veiled sarcasm. “Ah, yes. Now I begin to understand how your isolation has so diligently served both you and your kin. It has brought us to this moment—the only chance of safely reaching your mountains lies with these... lesser beings and their boats.” The drakes’ superiority complex hung heavy on her patience which was thinning like fragile glass.

She stood there, listening to Celestina’s words, keeping her face deceptively impassive. Though she disagreed with the dragoness on many fronts, Ashe knew well enough to recognize that Celestina was the finest of the rangers, a mind sharp as a falcon’s talon. In matters of intelligence and strategy, Ashe trusted the dragoness implicitly—no matter the friction between their perspectives. Jura’s point is well made too. Perhaps… this is beyond mere diplomacy.

With a sigh, Ashe’s decision came swiftly, born of both urgency and resignation. “Very well,” she said. “You and Star will take the lead in securing a sea vessel. Heralds whisper of a plan—use that wisdom.”

Her eyes lingered on the distant figures of Sabato and Valadir, still locked in a conversation that only their lips seemed to move in. Their words were stolen from the air by mana, not a single sound to accompany their motions. Ashe’s frown deepened as she turned her attention back to Jura, whose gaze was fixed upon the horizon, eyes narrowed against the distance.

What in the name of the Heralds? A ship? Fate at last smiles upon us. But when Ashe followed Jura’s line of sight, the blackness of the night swallowed the world whole. The endless stretch of water merged with the abyss, and even her elven eyes, sharp and clear, could not say where the ocean ended, and the sky began.

She turned to the two dragonesses, her voice calm but urgent. “What flag does it fly? What do you see?”
She realised she held her breath, letting it go as she waited for their replies.

 

[Friendly_Dragon]

Starfall acquired an expression of wild, evident confusion when he heard the things the golden dragoness told him.

"What...? You can see the future...? If so could you elaborate further about what you've seen please?" He said in confusion. Even then, his voice comes out as gentle.


He smiled when he saw her eat. He thinks Ms that what she just said is really, really depressing yet he didn't say a thing in order to let her eat. He still sitting with his backpack open in case he needs to pull out more food.

"Yes" He said gently with a smile. Currently he is bluffing but he is easily passing this as a complete truth. He doesn't know these people too well to be honest but he thinks that this serves as encouragement for her to open up and socialize. Maybe she ends up liking his sis or someone else. Sure, Jura and Sis can come out as cold, Blade is kind of a dummy with people, he hasn't spent much time with Valadir and Sabato keeps to himself and is rather pragmatic but he thinks that everyone has a common characteristic. Which is that everyone's of noble attitude around here. They'll surely treat her gently if she approaches them.

---

"Why would it be cowardly?" Celestina asked Jura about the plan. "It's really effective and it's less effort on our part"

This surely ain't an easy situation to solve. Definitely on the harder end of the scenarios she's been involved in. No easy solution but that's one of the nice parts of her job. It involves thinking and it makes it fun.

Celestina immediately went alert and looked at the pointed direction when Jura noted a ship. She went wide eyed. This is too good to be true. The solution rarely comes to solve the current problem at the most opportune time. It'd be foolish to not take it.

"Oh shit" She quickly said as she left her backpack on the ground in a single swift move. Evident she's done so a million times.

"Stay here. I'll recon the ship. I have a mind connection with Star. I'll make him come here and tell you what I see. Once I gather enough Intel I'll make a plan with him" She told the girls. Having Star come over and do something useful once the ship is explored wasn't in her plans but now that her boss' has mentioned them two being in charge, it might work.

Celestina then made her runes glow and she dissapeared from view. She outstretched her wings and directed herself towards the ship.

"Star! Enemy ship!"

Starfall interrupted his current action and looked at the sea behind the Golden dragoness. He has also gone wide eyed. He started to close his backpack.

"See it. What's the plan?"

He now hears his sister fly over him quickly. He briefly looked upwards due to instinct and saw nothing. She must be using her spell.

"Go with Jura and Ashley! I'm going in and I need you to keep them updated on the info I'll send you!"

Starfall got up and got his backpack on.

"Roger. Be careful sis"

"Not the first time I've done this kind of job"

"I know. I was with you when we made that other ship explode. Smugglers got what they deserved"

"Agreed"

"We need to move right now. My sister is moving to that ship over there so we can take it and go" He calmly told the golden dragoness. "I need to reunite with my comrades over there to get the plan going. Come with me and stay with them. We'll protect you if anything happens"

Starfall then started to move at a hurried pace to his teammates.

"Did Cellie update you?" He asked when he reunited with the girls.

---

Ugh. Out of everyone around here he has to talk feelings with the two coldest ones? With the two most similar to a stone wall? Valadir hates this. He wishes Crystal to be here. She'd handle this situation a lot better than these two. He was about to ask about why he shouldn't say anything to the drakes about it but he quickly decided not to since he got why. Or at least he thinks so. Knowing them, either Eragon, his bitchy woman or bitchy sister are going to try to use that to their advantage and at his expense.

"Yes" He simply replied about the situation being understood. His stomach growled loudly again. He looked around and sees Starfall with a mighty backpack. Maybe he has something to eat. In the process he's seen the ship too.

"Crys and me had a plan about taking a ship and using it to get mom and everyone else home. Maybe we could use that one. And also load my dad there and bury him when we arrive..." He shyly proposed.

 

[Klader]

Tala pulled her own confused face back at Starfall. As if to articulate what's wrong with what she said.

"S-sometimes. I have dreams about the future and the past." She sounded energetic to tell him about herself.

"B-but everything thinks I'm crazy when I tell the..." Quickly dropping her head, she lowered her voice in shame. "You probably think it's stupid as well. I don't blame you."

"Oh, ok." Tala grew confident at Starfall's side. Believing the other's will not hurt her in any shape or form. If they are with him, that must mean they are also like him... Right?

She put on a brave snout. "I-I'll follow you."

---

Virve smugly smiled at Ashe. Enjoying the soft-skinned animal's anger. Her words had no effect on the drakaina (female drake). Ultimately, they will end up in the drake's homeland, which is safe due to their isolation.

Jura caught wind of the interaction between Ashe and Virve, she flicked her tongue out, sensing the tension.

"Because it's unfair. Because it's cruel." Jura quickly retorted back at Celestina on the topic of magic. "You know I don't like magic. It's-" She paused for a second, thinking about Blade. "It's a shameful way to take advantage of someone else. At least let them fight first. Speaking of which. When did you start turning invisible?"

"I cannot see the flag." Jura replied to Ashe. It's too dark. "I suspect it's a trading vessel or Eryalian. Based on its direction.

Jura didn't argue with Celestina. The right decision is to scout a ship that looks like it is already sailing South. Extremely convenient. Almost too convenient. She stepped back to give her friend room to take off. Again, unnerved by her newfound ability to disappear from sight. She flicked her tongue out to confirm that she had left.

Gathrea -Celestina's guardian drake- opted to stay on the ground so he doesn't compromise Celestina while she scouts. He cannot turn invisible like her. Instead, he mentally updated all the other drakes of the situation. That being said, if there is any sight of potential harm to her, Gathrea will be at her side within seconds.

A few seconds after Celestina left, Jura snapped her head at the ice drake and snarled at her.
"If you ever speak to Ashe again like that, your skull will hang on your spear for the crows to pick at. Am I clear?" She spat her words at the drake with venom.

Virve was taken aback. Almost dazed by Jura's sudden anger. A flash of fear and anger crossed the drake's snout.

"Yes, Great One." Clear annoyance in her cold voice.

"Excellent."

Jura then turned to Ashe. "There, it shouldn't give you any trouble anymore. If it does, let me know."

Not long after, Starfall appeared, as Celestina had said. He also has a new gold and white dragon with him. Seems like he has made a new friend. This is Jura's first time seeing her.

"She has informed us of the situation before she left. We await her reply." She acknowledged Starfall.

Then Jura looked at Tala. "Hello, what's your name?"

Tala lost her previous courage as soon as Jura started talking to her. She stuck closer to Starfall and hesitated. "H-hi... M-my name is Tala..." She hid slightly behind Starfall.

In response, Jura gave Starfall a confused look about why Tala is acting like that.

---

"Good." Sabato replied. He quickly studied the dragon. He can see his thought process with his facial expressions.

"I understand that you feel we are being unfair and harsh. This is the minimum. I will not allow Abzul to gain any ground with you. This is a literal case of life and death for you and everyone else. I see that Crystal has not touched the subject of training your mind to withstand a mind reader's probing. I will begin with you on the subject if we get the time. It will help you now and more in the future."

Sabato nearly smirked at Valadir's stomach. The hunger of dragons is amusing to him.

"Hmm." He considered the plan he had made with Crystal.

"She makes this problematic with such little time. I don't see how we can achieve this-" He cut himself short as he got an idea.

"Is his body close? If so, recruit some of the drakes and have them carry your father's corpse here."

Sabato placed a hand on the floor, and the magic orange bubble fizzled away without making a noise.

---

Celestina discovered a medium-sized vessel. No more than twenty-five metres in length. It has two masts. The foremast and the mainmast have white sails. A small crow's nest with a sailor in it. On the deck are four loaded ballistas. Fifteen guards dressed in polished armour. A crew of thirty sailors with the Captain and his Second standing at the wheel. A flag with a phoenix on each mast, indicating it is from Sol Castle. A barge that is full of supplies and weapons.

 

[CreareunderCreare]

As Ashe watched Celestina disappear into the shadow of the night sky, she could not help but wonder, How had I never witnessed her invoke the magic of invisibility before? The ranger’s effortless vanish was unsettling, and her thoughts flickered to the cryptic runes What is the origin of those runes?

Her musings were shattered by the sound of heavy footfalls, and she turned to see Starfall’s towering form stride toward them. His massive frame cut through the air like a mountain, an indomitable force of nature. Jura ever sharp, immediately responded to Starfall’s question when he approached. Ashe’s gaze flickered briefly to the tentative golden dragon hiding behind him.

Ashe inquired, speaking to Starfall, “I assume you are going to relay your sister’s findings?” Her voice was steady, but a subtle edge of command lingered beneath the words. “Did she mention that I would prefer if both you and she take the lead in securing that sea vessel?”

She exchanged a silent glance with Jura, then returned her gaze to the vast horizon, her expression contemplative. “If it is indeed an Eraylian vessel,” she began softly, her tone edged with caution, “then we risk revealing our presence to their forces. If the ship is found missing, or if the crew manages to send a distress signal may pose us threat.”

Before she could offer further words, Jura’s gaze rebuked Virve with the force of an storm of ice. Ashe couldn’t suppress, a brief, knowing smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. I cannot deny a strange satisfaction in seeing that arrogant drake humbled by Jura’s authority, Ashe thought, her gaze flickering toward the now chastened creature.

If I struggle so to earn her respect, Ashe mused, how in the name of the heralds will I ever gain a place at the negotiation table when we reach the Southern Mountains? The implications gnawed at her, though a moment of distraction came as Jura turned her attention to Tala, who had finally emerged from behind Starfall’s protective bulk.

Ashe could not help but glance toward the ocean, where the ship bobbed gently on the waves, a reminder of the looming challenge. Perhaps I should not initiate my own introduction, she pondered, her thoughts shifting once more. Tala may know me only as my guise from Diabmoure. No sense in complicating matters further. She has enough fear to contend with—especially with Jura’s... greeting.

Paying half a mind to Jura’s failed introduction, she saw Tala, still anxious, sought refuge once more behind Starfall’s protective wings. Ashe could not help but smile at the sight. Of all my companions, Starfall is by far the friendliest, she thought wryly. Whereas Jura— she flicked a glance toward the frost-forged warrior, —well, her very presence can freeze the air around her.

Her gaze lingered once more on the sea, the rhythmic sound of the waves pulling at her senses as her thoughts twisted with uncertainty. Do I have the strength to face an Eraylian fleet again? she wondered. How will Jura react to the sight of them?

The question hung heavy in her chest, a storm that threatened to consume her. She closed her eyes for a brief moment, feeling the weight of past failures settle into her bones like an old wound that refused to heal. Not after I failed them, she thought, the words sharp and bitter in her heart. But perhaps this fleet does not hail from my dukedom. Perhaps they aren't my people after all, even if they carry the Eraylian banner.

The uncertainty churned within her, leaving her to wonder what fate would bring. She noted Valadir and Sabato were finished. The odd spell inhibiting any sound from passing on ended, and she could hear them once more. She commented, “Nice of you both to join us.”

She quickly filled them in on the situation—the findings, the plan of action, and the challenges that lay ahead. Then, turning once more to Starfall, she asked, her voice betraying the edge of impatience that had crept in, “Has your sister reported in yet?”

 

[Friendly_Dragon]

"I don't think it's stupid. What about all those people who had the same gift as you that tried to warn about some incoming threat that ended up being true?" Starfall surely told the dragoness in order to get some confidence into her.

---

Valadir was about to protest and shout at Sabato for he sounded he was going to say they can't afford to retrieve his dad's cadaver. He was going to tell him he's going to do it with or without his permission but he suddenly agreed to it. He lightly nodded to the question about his proximity.

"Come with me please, the headless corpse of my father is in a cave that way and I want to get him home so we can bury him" He instructed to the drakes assigned to himself.

---

Celestina frowned when she heard Jura nail as something unfair. She thinks she said something really stupid.

"I disagree. Ask our fallen race members if their killers cares about fairness. Besides, you also done stealthy ops. You saying you gave your postion away instantly to give the enemy a fighting chance? In any case this is a dumb thing to argue about"

Overflying the ship, what the dragoness sees is that its really well protected. Evident cargo ship. The sails caught her eye.

"Cargo ship. Big one. Lots of armed security. Bay must be loaded, I'm thinking food and equipment. They wouldn't guard anything else so tightly. Sails are from back home. Sol's. Get Whitey, I need his mage opinion. Also ask Ashley what she wants us to do. Kill the guards and submit the crew or if she wants to try and use her influence"

"Roger"

"She says its a big cargo ship with really good protection. Lots of personnel on board. Flags are Sol Castle. She also needs some mage backup. Lemme get him" He explained to Ashley what Cellie is seeing. "She also wants your opinion or you use your influence. It's kind of your territory. I'll leave you to do the thinking"

Starfall got up and went towards Blade, finding Valadir is gone.

"We are making plans for taking that ship on the coast. My sister is overflying it and she wants your magic expertise"

"I shall do my best" Blade answered, getting9 up.

"Fly high so you don't get spotted"

Blade nodded. He put a paw on his chest and suddenly he disappeared from sight. Starfall took a step back, surprised this guy can do the same thing as her. Wing flapping could be heard, signaling Blade is now airborne.

With his task done, Starfall returned to his people.

"Decided anything?" He inquired.

Blade flew far up the ship, following Celestina's trace. She could hear his flapping coming near.

"I'm answering your summons. What do you require from me?" Blade asked her after conneting himself with her from a distance.

"See if you can ID any mages. If there's any, taking them out is going to make our job easier"

Without a word, Blade scanned the surroundings with his mind.

"I am unable to discern their position. However, there are mana traces on board the ship. There is at least one individual versed in magic. They are purposefully concealing their location within the vessel. If I may, eliminating the magic presence in the ship would allow me to bend the crew's minds on our favor"

"Huh. That sounds like a good plan actually. I'll tell the rest we are going with that" Celestina recognized. Whitey is already proving his worth. Sounds like having him in the group is actually beneficial. She's been proven wrong.

"Star. Me and Whitey have a plan. We'll see if we can take our their mage and mind control the others. Ask Ashley if she likes it"

Starfall went quiet when his sister relayed her plan.

"Cellie has a plan. She wants to take out their mage and then do some magic shit to mind control the crew so they do what we say without killing too much. She wants to know if you authorize" He asked Ashley.

 

[Klader]

Time: 1:30am
Date: 15th July

<=={}========>

Tala perked her head. She decided to prod Starfall's claims. "T-they're are others like me? Are you saying I'm not the only crazy dragon?"

She leaned in closer towards Starfall, wanting to get information from him. "Do you know others like me?"

---

Once Valadir and Blade had been dismissed, Sabato released a big sigh. Rewarding himself to lower his guard for a minute after an intense discussion with an angry dragon. He put a hand on the hilt of his sword for comfort.

He looked up into the night sky. "Please, Ansel... Usher me through this mess."

A few seconds of silence. In a calmer state, as if the presence of his guarding spirit visited. He turned around to look into the forest.

Now I need to go and find Crystal.

Making sure no one is looking. The dark-tailed kitsune kneeled on his hands and feet. With the cracking of bones and turning of flesh, he morphed into a nine-tailed fox within a couple of seconds. His clothes disappeared, and he ran into the forest to find Crystal.

---

"My stealth operations are purely my skills and talents. No room for that enchantment you have written all over you." Jura stood firm in belief. Her eyes hardened on Celestina- Her close friend.

"If it wasn't for these so called Infesters and their mind magic, we would all still be in the King's army as one unit. I detest the abuse of magic and forever will."

The blue dragoness eyes softened into an apologetic gaze. "Alas, it's your decision and I do not condemn you. You still are one of my closest friends."

"We are waiting for Cellie to report back to us." Jura promptly replied to Starfall upon his arrival.
"So far, we may be stealing a ship down there." She pointed at the ocean.

Jura shifted her focus from Tala to Starfall once he spoke of Celestina's report. Again, dismayed that they have the ability to talk to each other with their minds. However, she cannot deny the benefit. Because Starfall regarded Ashley, Jura could only assume it was a ship from her house. She looked at Ashley.

Of course it's from her castle. This is just getting better and better. The dragoness no longer cared much for Eraylia after stripping her of her knighthood and essentially banishing all dragons to doom. There is not much left to like. But it's still Ashley's home, thus whatever her halfling companion says, goes.

From behind Starfall, Tala stared at Ashley. Glaring at the human-elf breed. Recognising her as one of the newer representatives in Diabmoure.
She must be spying on us. I must warn Starfall. The ship might be a trap.

Tala tapped the back of Starfall's leg to get his attention.

---

An unformillair mind brushed against Blade's mind. Also, it is against Celestina's, but she cannot detect the intrusion. The mage on the ship has revealed himself to scout the sky for the enemy. He can be detected in the Captain's quarters. Within a minute, the cargo ship exploded with activity. The ballistas are being loaded and aimed towards the sky.

---

Thresh and Gathrea, who have been recruited by Valadir. Followed him to his father's corpse without a word or hint of disapproval. In fact, their body language could be described as honoured to help.

 

[CreareunderCreare]

The weight of her emotions threatening to spill over as the truth of the ship's origin settled like a dark cloud in Ashely’s mind. Eraylia's future rests not on sentiment, but on the hard truths we must face, she reminded herself, drawing in a slow, controlled breath.

Knowing Starfall and Jura were regarding her, she checked her posture despite exhaustion and replied. Her voice was cold, precise, like the edge of a drawn blade. “Relay orders to Celestina immediately. Have the crew and captain of this vessel subdued. Any who resist, deal with swiftly. The mage—if they are as dangerous as I suspect—must be captured. If resistance proves fatal, let it be so.”

She continued, “Once we have secured the ship, I will consider whether my name, my reputation, can turn the tides in our favour. But we must prepare for the possibility that those aboard are indoctrinated either by these Infestors or the propaganda of the old prophecies.”

Her gaze grew colder still, as she looked from one lieutenant to the other. “But heed my words: No life is to be taken unless the situation is unavoidable. We are not here to slaughter indiscriminately. We will not become the monsters we seek to defeat.”

Her instructions given, Ashley fell silent. There was nothing more to say, only the uncertain wait as events unfolded.

 

[Friendly_Dragon]

"I'm sure you're not" Starfall told the golden dragoness as a further attempt to ease her down. Partially because he means it and partially because she can prove useful.

"I've heard about them but I haven't met them personally"

---

Valadir guided the drakes towards the cave his father is in in silence. He's mentally preparing for seeing that again. If he cries there'll be no one to cry on for these guys have the same level of feelings as a rock. He's again regaining the sense of hatred he has towards Ganjiro. How could he dare doing that. He wishes he could go back in time to redo that battle and kill him. Or better yet, go back further so he can do something about his dad's death.

---

Celestina gave a nod to Jura's apology. They've had this difference of opinion for years. She also wishes none of these past events ever happened. She wishes their parents were still alive but there's nothing to be done about it besides getting payback.

Starfall nodded at his boss' orders and relayed them back to his only remaining family member.

" Gotcha" The dragoness replied back.

"Just told 'er" He informed. Then the golden dragoness seemed to seek his attention.

"What?" He kindly asked her.

---

"I'm told we can carry on our plan given we capture their mage and try to kill as few as possible. Good thing we already planned that" Cestina told Blade, whom to her surprise remained oddly quiet.

"We have been spotted" Blade calmly to his comrade.

"What? How?" She inquired. She's starting to see the sailors get into their positions.

"Their mage has sensed our magical presence. However, this also favors us. By scouring our presence, the mage has also given away their position. Below deck. With that in mind, I shall duel with their mage from here" Blade relayed back. Not wasting any time, he sent some mind tendrils towards the ship's mage in order to strongly squeeze his brain.

Well, that could be worse. The dragoness is confident still their weapons can't reach them.

"Whitey is working on their mage. As long as he doesn't faint or die or we get shot, we should be fine" Celestina relayed to Starfall who in turn told the others.

 

[Klader]

Tala became less enthusiastic once learning Starfall hadn't met anyone else like her.

She recoiled herself from Starfall. Took a couple of steps back to observe his demeanour. He has been very kind. The only one who has since the start of her memories. The only one who hasn't insulted, struck or otherwise caused pain. A twinkle in her eyes appeared.

"I-I like you." She said with some confidence.

---

Gathrea and Thresh entered the cave in silence. The smell of death and decay immediately filled their nostrils. Though, they did not react.

Thresh lifted his hand. An amber-glowing orb appeared within his palm. Lighting the cave with a warm glow. He positioned the orb above his head, where it floated on its own accord and enough height for Valadir to see ahead.

Gathrea has witnessed many of his friends die in combat. A trained and trialled veteran himself, he kept a watchful eye over Valadir, knowing this will be a stirring time for him.

There. The source of the smell. The headless corpse. It put a sour taste in Gathrea's mouth to see a dragon in such a terrible condition. Thresh, on the other hand, felt anger. A deep aggravation that needs to be eased with revenge. The glowing orb slightly increased in brightness due to his emotions.

The drakes did not approach the body until Valadir permitted it.

---

Jura shallowly nodded at Ashe, indicating her approval of the approach. It's the most logical thing to do. It's a shame they are in this position, attacking an Eraylian ship, but it is their best option. Walking to the Southern Mountains will get them killed.

Jura lay on the ground on her stomach.
"Ashe, be on standby. We may be on the move sooner than you think."

She then looked at Starfall, "I don't think it's wise to have only sent them if they're going to engage. Some of the drakes should go."

Then she eyed her guarding ice drake, Virve. In response, she gave a cold stare back, still not happy that Jura had yelled at her, but she would not argue with the dragoness. Drekk, who is with Starfall, is still here.

Virve took flight and headed towards Blade and Celestina.

In a softer, more caring voice, Jura spoke to Ashe again. "Perhaps we can seek some protection for your legs now."

---

Straight into a defensive posture, the enemy mage recoiled behind his mental wall, sensing Blade's power and experience. Far greater than his own. All he needs to do is buy time until the ballista hits the dragons. But he already feels the squeezing pressure Blade is applying around his mind.

The crew loaded the ballista and aimed in the direction of the dragons. In unison, they fired. Shooting large arrows at the dragons. They whisted past them by ten metres. Easily reaching their altitude. The crew immediately started loading more arrows.

 

[CreareunderCreare]

Ashe nodded in acknowledgement to Jura. Whilst I do not require her approval, any Herald worth their name knows the value of having it.
As Jura crouched, Ashe nimbly climbed on top, avoiding any major injuries.

Across the misted waters, distant but growing louder, the unnatural rhythm of mechanical arms tearing through air shattered the stillness—a few shouts, and the cold, efficient thunder of the cargo vessel's weaponry coming to life. Ashe narrowed her eyes. “If it can be done,” she said, her voice steady despite the rising tension, “have Virve draw attention from Celestina. I want the Ranger focusing on what she does best - taking out that mage before they know their prey.”

A grimace broke through her demeanour, the cuts on her legs settled against Jura’s scales. She leaned forward. “I swear,” she murmured to Jura, “I can already smell that Eraylian leather. I think I will sing praises when we have a new saddle.”

 

[Friendly_Dragon]

Starfall raised an eyebrow when the golden dragoness suddenly flinched.

"Thanks" He told her with a smile after he was told she likes him, taken aback by those words. Odd and unexpected thing to say given the circumstances.

He saw the drake go to his sister's aid.

"If Cellie needs even more help, next one's me. You can't deny my big brother role"

---

The cave where Valadir's father's corpse is is in sight. The two toned dragon is reluctant now. Remembering what he had seen, he doesn't want to see it again but he knows he has no choice. Dad needs his burial.

With a deep breath, he entered the cave after the drakes and froze in place. First he went deeply sad. He felt like crying again. He didn't deserve any of this. He didn't get into anyone's bad side and kept to his close ones. What's worse is that he looks like he died protecting mom. With that thought is how he got furious again. Crystal's friend was involved, he's sure. He wouldn't have his head otherwise. Again feeling the need of killing him. And what's worse is that he also made it so Crystal doesn't recognize him anymore.

"Ideas?" He asked coldly and bluntly to the drakes that were with him. His fury felt through his words.

---

Blade doubled the strength he's applying to his opponent, finding there's no time to waste. While he has perceived the bolt that flew near him, he didn't let it distract him.

Celestina on the other hand paid close attention to the bolts flying their way. They are most likely firing blind but it's a matter of time before they get hit due to sheer volume.

"Draw their fire away from us!" She yelled at the new pair of wings coming their way.

"They are firing blind against us. It's a matter of time before they get us. Told the guy you sent to draw fire but he can only do so much against half a dozen weapons"

"Gotcha" Starfall replied to his remaining family member.

"Come with me, we need to buy them some time" He instructed the drake that was with him as he got his backpack off his back and on the ground. "If I die you know my will is in my room"

He then went airborne, and once he saw the drake followed him he went towards the ship. Even if she won't admit it, Celestina is for once happy to see that annoying hunk of hair, scales and muscle.

 

[Klader]

They must be punished for their evil deeds... A soft, quiet whisper. Indistinguishable from a thought. Abzul planted thoughts and ideas into Valadir's mind after he had seen his father's corpse.

"His body will be stiff and cold. Devoid of all fluid. We should build a quick stretcher for transport." Gathrea quickly replied to Valadir. Unphased by Valadir's harsh tone. An expected and acceptable tone for such a time.

"Let us gather branches. Thresh, you will need to weld a raft together." Gathrea turned and left to find suitable sticks and logs for a makeshift stretcher, careful not to touch Valadir on the way out.

Thresh didn't follow Gathrea. The drake shaman stood for a minute to inspect the body. Once Gathrea left the cave, he spoke in a low, deep tone. "Revenge will be granted. I swear it." He then left the cave.

---

"I-I saw her at Diabmoure. She was a patron." Tala quietly told Starfall that Ashe could not hear her because she was speaking about her.

After a quick nod and a tilt of the wings to affirm Virve understood Celestina, the drakiana folded her wings and dived down past the clouds. Her pale white scales are striking against the navy blue sky. The ship's crew trained half their ballista to the distraction and fired immediately, coming within a few metres of Virve, who became nervous at how accurate they were. She zig-zagged and rolled in random directions. Slowly getting closer to the ship. Three of the large ranged weapons fired another volley at Celestina and Blade, getting closer this time.

Blade's reinforced attacks broke the mage on the ship. Crushing his defences. The dragon controls the mage and has free magical reign over the ship.

Drekk quickly took off after Starfall. Tala, Rega, Cassiopia, Jura, Ashe and Dathka remained on the ground to await the ship's capture.

Jura stared at the water from their position, it didn't look like much. Just the usual sounds of a battle. Nothing she is unfamiliar with. While Ashe has seen a fair share of combat, the dragoness wouldn't consider her accustomed to it. So, she decided to distract her friend with a task.

"Well, maybe that smell is coming from Starfall's bag, who mistakenly left it for me to go through. Let's see if we can make some protection for you." Jura's voice became perky and cheeky. Rude to go through someone's belongings. The blue dragoness justified her right for Ashe's safety.

Jura slowly stood and carefully moved to Starfall's backpack to ensure Ashe was properly seated.

"Let's see..."

She opened it and started pulling things out. Nothing exciting besides basic items. She flicked her tongue out.

"Ew. Smells like he hasn't cleaned it for a while."

She pulled out a large brown cloth. "This should do."

She ripped it in half and passed it up to Ashe. "See if you can tie these around your legs."

Tala curiously watched Jura and Ashe from a distance. Unsure if she should intervene.

 

[CreareunderCreare]

Whilst Ashe was grateful, taking the brown material from Jura, part of her was tempted to lecture her companion on the sanctity of personal belongings concept known as private property. But before the half-blood could voice the thought, Jura was already rummaging through Starfall’s satchel, apparently unbothered.

She took the blue dragoness’s word about the smell of the backpack. “Well,” Ashe muttered dryly, a crooked smile playing at her lips, “it seems there are rare blessings in an inferior sense of smell.”

“Thank you, Jura,” she added, the warmth in her voice softening the jest. She made a mental note to offer Starfall some form of compensation later.

Ashe gingerly manoeuvred on top of Jura’s back and placed them over her bandaged legs, tying knots in the material to fasten it.
Her gaze lifted briefly, drawn to the ink-dark waters stretching out under the night’s endless expanse. A faint smile touched her lips, fleeting and private, before she went back to her task.
A quaint distraction… thank you, friend.

When her knots were secure, she gave Jura a firm pat on the back—a silent signal that she was ready.

 

[Friendly_Dragon]

Thoughts of pushing those responsible for his father's death came to Valadir's mind. He's attributing them to the fury he's feeling and he finds those thoughts are completely right. He can't wait for the next battle to begin, simply because that involves more killing of the other races that are against his race. That allows revenge, not only for his dad but for everyone else.

In a furious expression still, he stared at the drake who went to do his task. He finds the plan to be solid.

"I will as well. For him and the others of my race. All the other races are guilty and they disgust me... they deserve what's coming" He added Thresh's words with poison before leaving to snatch the materials for the corpse transport. He already likes this guy.

---

"You see, we are trying to dismantle that dump. She was merely doing some reconnaissance via infiltration" Starfall whispered back to the dragoness with him.

Once he flew towards the ship, Starfall dived towards the ship to gather some attention to himself.

Celestina is glad at what she's seeing. Feels like a well organized operation like old times.

"Their mage is ours now. He'll follow my commands. I shall make it so we are not targeted anymore" Blade relayed to the dragoness who's now more glad.

"Keep at it for a minute more. Whitey got their mage and can get them to stop shooting at us"

"Like our ranger days innit?" Starfall happily asked his dear sister who in turn agreed.

---

Zijan, the ship's mage, is sitting in the same room as the captain. A thirty six years told human in an expensive brown and blue coat. In essence he's dressing like a walking mage stereotype. Except for the hat. He's left it on his bed.

He's been staring blankly at his desk for a bit.

"Tell your men to stop shooting. These beasts can aid us. Their mage is of interest to me"

 

[Klader]

Once the two drakes and Valadir gathered the appropriate materials for a stretcher, Gathrea oriented the largest branches parallel to each other. The largest is four metres long at the ends of the lines. Creating a base for the stretcher. Next, a neat row of shorter branches on top and perpendicular to the base. Creating a rough platform.

Gathrea stepped away to allow Thresh to inspect the work. He kneeled down to adjust a few pieces before placing his hands across the organised branches. He closed his eyes and focused his mana. Seconds later, the branches creaked and cracked. They welded to each other As if they were of one tree.

A minute passed by, and the creaking stopped. Thresh took his hands and released a few short breaths. Tired from using a large amount of mana on a task he isn't familiar with. By the end of it, the stretcher is complete. Strong and large enough to carry a large dragon.

"It is finished.

Thresh and Gathrea picked up an end of the stretcher. They carried ii into the cave. Again, Thresh created a glowing orb of warm, soft light. They placed the stretcher beside the corpse. Before shifting the body, they paid homage to the dragon. Bending down to one knee and bowing their heads silently for half a minute.

Gathrea spoke with a sad undertone to Valadir. "You aren't aware of our ways. We must ask permission from you to touch the body."

---

Tala didn't respond to Starfall. Simply looked at him. Not fully convinced of Ashe's stance.

Drekk chased after Starfall. Diving down, but picking a different path as soon as he understood the assignment to create a distraction. Giving the ship's crew more targets to attack. The task would have been much easier if they could burn the boat. He mentally contacted Virve, who was also making a distraction. Together, they stayed connected to coordinate themselves.

---

The Captain, A bulky dwarf with a thick, long beard, snapped his head at the mage. Dumbfounded at what he just heard from the mage. He knows a little about mana, and its ability. It is possible that Zijan can control them, but that will not do.

"Nay. I am under strict orders to kill any flying beast with scales. Continue to defend our storage. We cannot let them burn the ship. Cast a protective spell so they cannot do that.

---

Once Ashe was ready, Jura shoved everything back in Starfall's bag. Not interested in anything else. She continued to stand. Even walk around in a circle with Ashe on her back so her joints do not become stiff. She is still painfully tired and sore.

A sour taste is left in her mouth. Not liking the idea of letting Cellestina and Starfall fly off to do the dirty work while she sits and waits. For Ashe's sake, she didn't voice her opinion.

The blue dragoness snapped her head at Tala who had been staring at them the whole time. She flicked her tongue out. Getting the general sense that the gold and white dragonness is weary.

"So you're from Diabmoure as well? I've never seen you before."

Tala didn't answer right away. Instead, looked at Jura with big eyes, unsure if she should respond. In the end, she remembered what Starfall said. They won't hurt her.

"I-I was not a fighter l-like you... I watched you."

Jura suddenly became interested. "Watched? How? Were you not imprisoned?" She raised her voice a little.

Tala took a step back from the bombardment of questions.

 

[CreareunderCreare]

Ashe paid a momentary glance at Tala, as Jura walked about. Her gaze cool and quizzical. Timid thing, is she not? Ashe idly thought to herself, accompanied by the faint arch of a brow. She spoke then, half to Jura, half to those still present, “The akarma flaunted her like a vaunting prize for their collection. Oftentimes, she stood as still as stone. There were disputes in the chambers whether she was truly flesh and blood, or merely an illusion.”

Ashe patted on Jura’s back and murmured, “Stop scaring the poor girl.”

Perhaps it is time to introduce myself, .

“You have nothing to fear from us,” Ashe spoke, her voice now measured and clear. “I go by Ashley Loftwood. Perhaps my face is known to you, from Diabmoure, among the Patrons. However, I assure you that was merely a ruse to rescue Jura from the gladiator pits.”

“We are Castpoint,” she continued. “Jura, Starfall, Celestina whom you will meet in time and I are all members. It is good to see that Blade broke any chains the Akarma used to maintain control over you.”

 

[Friendly_Dragon]

Valadir handed some materials and watched the drakes work and honor his father's remains. He is satisfied. These are added to the select group of drakes he doesn't find useless.

"How else are you going to load him?" He coldly told them, still angry at the other races for causing all of this.

---

"Think about it..." Blade made Zijan tell the captain. "We can make them protect us. We wouldn't risk any of the men's lives. After all these beasts are worth less than us. There's nothing stopping us from selling them to Diabmoure and giving our bosses a cut or transforming them into the men's rations after arriving to our destination"