Part three....The warrior quest 2

Chapter three.. The Dreams of Danger.

She lay on the carpet of green surrounded by leaves and twigs and flowers,her skin pale,her eyes half closed,the blood trickling from her beautiful lips pale and lifeless now. The roaring of the Dragons anguish was reverberating through the now still forest,the Unicorn stood head bowed ears down. Yailith stared at the lifeless form shaking his head " No! " he whispered over and over again " No!" he said louder and louder untill he was shouting it " No!!!,you promised she would be safe!! you said no harm would come to her!!" He was shouting at the trees turning round and round trying to see he who he shouted at. He turned to the Unicorn " You can heal her bring her back make her right!!" he shouted at him.The Unicorn raised his head,his eyes were wet with tears for the loss of his friend and saviour " I cannot Yailith, I can heal wounds I cannot ressurect the dead" and he bowed his head once more,Yailith looked at him,at her laying lifeless on the forest floor and he shouted again " Nooooooo!!!"
That last shout awakened him from his sleep and tore him from the grips of the nightmare. He was shaking and sweating,he rose from the bed and got himself a glass of cold water. Sitting once more on the edge of the bed he calmed himself,hoping that his shouts had not woken anyone else. For two weeks now he had been having nightmares to do with this little band,long before he had set eyes on Keelagh he had known her name,what she looked like and who her friends would be,even though she hadn`t yet met them. He had sent Trulith to ensure that they crossed the lake because he had seen her perish on the other side. He knew that Trulith could help her get over and past the Dragon. What he hadn`t known was that the Dragon was on a quest to stop her. He pondered on who could command a Dragon so,but he had not been able to come up with an answer. Now he had the added task of trying to stop her from going through the Forest of Lochin,and he didn`t think it was a task he was going to succeed at.Short of telling her who and what he really was there seemed little likelihood of her listening to what he had to say. He would sleep on it and maybe a solution would come.

" Why are you so restless Magical one?" Bryntich asked the pacing unicorn " You haven`t settled all night" Magryth shook his long mane and snorted " there is something not quite right Bryn my friend" He said looking towards the big double doors " It`s almost as though this barn was built for the two of us" He looked round the barn,it was very spacious and yet there were no stalls,no farming implements and no sign that any other creature had ever been in it.
" Tis a new built barn,Magryth,I can smell the newness of the wood" He rested his long snout on his front claws and sighed " You are suspicious of this Yailith?"
" And you are not Bryn?" the Unicorn asked quietly
" Yes I am,have been from the first" Bryntich agreed " He is much more than warlock,he may be able to see through your cloak Magryth but he cannot know the power of my senses"
" So what are we to do?" Magryth asked
" Nothing for now Hoofed one,Keelagh needs rest,and though I am suspicious I dont think he means her harm"
" No Bryn he doesn`t but if his intentions are to foil the quest,then that would harm us all" and with that Magryth closed his eyes and slept.
The Dragon smiled,he was slowly working out some of the things that had been happening,and while he may not have been as old as the magical Magryth,Dragons had senses other creatures did not possess. Keelagh was safe for now,of this he was sure.

She stirred and stretched the cotton sheets felt cool against her legs,she frowned,something wasn`t right but she was having trouble grasping it,she slowly opened her eyes half way,she could feel the breeze flowing gently through the pink hangings on the window. Wait,pink hangings she didn`t have pink hangings and she came fully awake. As soon as she was awake she remembered that she wasn`t in her room back in Duranbro as she had been dreaming but in a strangers house.She went to spring up as she normally did but waves of giddiness gripped her as she attempted to rise.Her head hurt and she gingerly raised her hand to the cut on her forehead. She remembered now,the crossing,and all that happened after.She rose more slowly and finding her clothes on a chair at the side of the bed dressed slowly too. Opening the door quietly lest she waken the rest of the house she left the room and the house and went to seek her companions,a soft brush of fur against her side let her know that Wraith had been in the room with her and had been at her side as she left it. It was just coming up to dawn as she stepped outside,she looked towards the horses she had remembered seing the night before,a large black stallion stood watching her and she crossed the yard towards the paddock. He snorted and laid his ears back as she neared the fencing,he was wild,unbroke. She had no fear of animals,she never had since being little. She climbed the fence and he skittered to the side stamping his hooves,warning her. She spoke to him softly,evenly as she climbed the fence. His ears came up and he stood still quivering and snorting. She continued to speak to him as she neared him stopping a few feet away. Then she walked past him and he skittered to the side again,she stood with her back to him talking softly,as she heard him come towards her she began walking away from him,he followed,she walked round the paddock several times never looking at him,always with her back to him. Finally he nudged her and she stopped walking.He stood with his head over her shoulder and she raised her hand and stroked his neck,talking softly. She turned and walked back towards the fence and the horse followed her. Yailith stood at the fence wating for her. " I thought I would be tending to more injuries" he said to gher as she climbed the fence " He is a devil horse cannot be broken " he continued " In fact I dont think I have seen anyone that close to him before"
" He is a beautiful horse Yailith " she answered him " He just needs handling right thats all"
" Bria is preparing the morning meal,you haven`t eaten since you were swimming with dragons perhaps you might be hungry" he said with laughter in his voice " Your friends are in the barn round the back of the house,if you widh to visit them first " he pointed to the corner of the house.
She thanked him and went round to the barn. Bryntich was nowhere to be seen but Magryth was happily dining on fresh hay and oats.
" Bryntich has been gone for an hour or so Keelagh" he said as she looked in the barn " Hunting I presume as hay and oats are not to a Dragons taste"
" But there are fruits in the barn Magryth " she looked at him with a frown on her face " Those would have kept him happy Why did he feel the need to hunt?" she mused
" All I know is that he says you were to stay here while he returned " Magryth said " Oh and to tell you it was a full hunt whatever that means"
Keelagh looked at him " A full hunt!!" she exclaimed " That means at least two days We have to be continuing our journey,whatever is he up to?" she said exasperated at the Dragon,more for not letting her in on his plans than being delayed.
" He must have his reasons Keelagh"
" Well I had better see if our host will allow us to stay longer then" she replied
" your host would be honoured" Yailith stated from behind her " Come the meal is done you must be starving" and he motioned for her to precede him to the house. Magryth watched them go,he didn`t want to decive Keelagh but after the dream he had had that night and the one the Dragon had Bryntich had gone to do a little Questing of his own,he had made Magryth promise not to let Keelagh know,she would be safe here while he returned. But what would happen after they began the next stage of their quest could not be foretold.

Part Two. The Warrior Quest 2
Chapter Two...The Wanderings of Warlocks

Keelagh had been scanning the sky as she had been talking,trying to catch sight of the brave bird that had helped Bryntich.
" You will not catch sight of him Keely,unless he wishes you to,tis Eli a friend of Myriads" Bryntich said answering her unasked question.
" Then I shall not try Bryn,though his timely appearence possibly saved you from greater harm" Keelagh turned back to the Dragon " What is a puzzle,Bryn is who brought the sea Dragon to the lake and why?"
" Someone that wanted this way blocked,he has been here a while Keelagh,weeks from the looks of the fishing village" he replied
" But that would mean that someone knew about the Quest before it was fully decided Bryn"
" Or perhaps took the precaution just in case" Bryn murmoured looking off into the distance.
" Are you a wizard?" he suddenly asked of Yailith,fixing him with one large eye. Yailith jumped when the Dragon addressed him,he was deep in thought leaving them to discuss between themselves. He laughed before replying " No mighty Bryntich,I am not so honoured,merely a lowly Warlock that has the dubious gift of being able to see through magic cloaks and spot fellows such as he" he pointed at Magryth " and her" and he pointed at Keelaghs pack which still lay on the sand. Keelagh looked at the pack,as she did so the tiny creature flew up and landed on her shoulder " Trulith!!" she exclaimed " I had been thinking we had lost you" the tiny Fairy rose up to her ear and whispered to her " Methinks Keelagh this fellow knows not his own magic,it will be interesting to see when he learns" Keelagh looked at Yailith,she wasn`t sure about him but Wraith had no objections to him,and she was sure that had there been any hostility he would have sensed it.
" We cannot stand here all day " she said picking up her pack " We must make camp before nightfall,somewhere relatively safe" she turned to Yailith " I presume you have somewhere you were going before we came along? " she asked
" Going " he said with amusement " No I was merely looking for food to supplement the cupboards,I live beyond the trees,you are welcome to camp there for the night" he had gestured to the trees and finished with a twinkle in his eye and amusement on his face. Keelagh bristled with annoyance at his amusement realising ,rightly,that it was at her expense. She knew it would be churlish to refuse his offer,she needed rest and so did the others.
" I accept your offer Yailith I presume you have the room for a dragon and a Unicorn? "
" Oh it will be a squeeze" he replied with a smile " But we will find a corner somewhere,and a spot before the fire for yon beastie" he pointed to the wolf who was stood once again at the side of the Dragon " Come tis this way " he finished turning and setting off towards the trees that stood at the top of the beach.
They walked for about twenty minutes,the trees had been deceptive,looking like a forest that led up from the beach it turned out to be only a small wood,with enough room for Bryntich to get through.Though the trees had grown in such a way as to hide the gaps from the outside. When they emerged on the other side all that could be seen were miles of feilds leading to hills in the distance. Keelaghs annoyance grew,she had believed that Yailiths home was not far and now it looked as though it was quite a distance after all. She held her tongue,shelter was what they needed. They passed through one feild of long sweet smelling grass,and as they neared what seemed to be a change in the texture and length of the grass Yailith stopped,she looked at him and then back at the feild,which was empty just grass. She was just about to ask him what he was playing at when he smiled and said " Welcome to my home" and as he made a welcoming gesture with his hand,there appeared before them a large homestead,it consisted of a long single storey building,not small,there looked to be many rooms from what she could see of the windows. Off to the side another feild with fencing round held two large stallions,and as they stood two large wolflike dogs came bounding across what appeared to be the yard of the homestead, which they were actually stood in.
" I cloak it for safety" he said preempting her question,just as Bryn usually did. " Tis bad times coming,what with Sea Dragons and wandering bands of,what are you anyway?" he finished looking at her " I mean what are you looking for?" he hurriedly amended.
" Does it matter?" Keelagh asked him
" Yes,I may be of assistance in directing you to where ever "
" Your shelter will be enough for now Yailith " she told him she was weary now.He looked at her,how silly he was being she had almost drowned,had a bad knock on the head and here was he keeping her stood when she needed to be resting. " Come you can freshen while food is made " and he strode forward towards the house. As they joined him the door opened and a large,robust woman appeared in the doorway.
" Ha and what have you brung this time?" she shouted to him in merry voice, as they drew level with her he introduced his guests to the large woman now drying her hands on a large white apron.
" Why the young miss looks all done in " she interupted him. He laughed " Keelagh this is Bria,she was my carer when I was young and is still my carer to this day,and she is bossier than a haridan" he finished laughing as she slapped his shoulder. " Bryntich,Magryth, as much as you are Keelaghs cherished companions and as big as the house is there is no room for a Dragon and a Unicorn inside,would you accept the comfort of the barn?" he asked the waiting creatures
" Twould be more comfy than a human home" Magryth laughed " This way then,Keelagh Bria will show you to a room where you can rest while the meal is made " and with that he turned and walked away round the side of the building and out of sight.
The Dragon relunctantly followed,barns tended to be quite cramped he was a rather large Dragon,his reluctance lifted however when he saw the Barn was as big again as the house and when the big double doors were open he could easily fit inside.
"Keelagh will be placed on this side of the house so you can see her window from the window in the barn" Yailith informed them"there is plenty straw and food inside,though I am not sure it will satisfy your appetite Bryntich"
" I will hunt later,Yailith" Bryntich informed him inspecting his quarters gleefully.
" I shall leave you then to settle " and off he went back to the house.
As he passed through the door Bria made a shusshing gesture at him holding her finger to her lips " The young one is asleep " she whispered. He looked towards the door that had been chosen for Keelaghs room some days before and smiled " Leave her Bria she will need to gather her strength for the days to come, come we will eat,and then I have messages to send" He turned towards another door " Trulith,you did well" he said to the little creature hovering by his shoulder " You can return to the woods now " And the little creature vanished.

Warrior Of Duranbro.
Part three..The Warrior quest 2
Chapter one...The Mystery of Monsters.
Everything was grey and her head hurt as she retched the last of the lake water onto the white sandy shore,she could hear roaring and shouting and she could feel strong hands pushing on her back encouraging her to rid her body of the salty water she has swallowed. Slowly things started to come into focus and she tried to get up so she could go help Bryn.
" You`ll be best staying where ye are" A male voice spoke near her ear. " Any moment now there`ll be hell breaking loose and if ye dont want to be Monster food I wouldna move"she waited a few moments to gather her breath,her ribs ached,her head ached,she felt like a herd of horses had trampled her. She turned very slowly to look at the lake,the mist was still there but it was diminishing beneath the furious onslought of flame from one very irate Dragon. Bryn was darting in and out of the mist breathing fire as he went,she wanted to call out to him,to let him know she was alright,but she realised he would know,and her throat hurt too much to call him.She looked for Wraith,he stood some feet from her watching her his head on one side in that way he had. As soon as he saw her looking he padded over and licked her face,she laughed " I think I have had a good enough wash Wraith" she cried as he continued to show how pleased he was to see she was alive.
" That be a brave beast" the Voice spoke again,she turned to see the owner of the voice half crouched at the other side of her,a youngish man,dark of hair with a small beard that came to a point beneath his chin. Blue eyes twinkled at her " You owe your life to yon beast,he it was dragged you to shore,I only had to help when he got near shore" he finished with a wink. She smiled at his cheek,then turned and wrapped her arms round the neck of the Wolf who now had his head on her shoulder " You are a fine brave Wraith,thankyou," she said he rubbed his head against her shoulder and neck practically knocking her back over. She turned back to the lake,the mist was almost gone now and the water was boiling but the bubbling was coming from beneath,she looked up and saw Bryn circling above the lake. " Seems Bryn has dealt with whatever it was " she said to the man beside her. He looked at the lake where the mist was totally gone " No tis still there see the bubbles " he pointed and she followed his finger and looked at the bubbles rising up from the middle of where the mist had been " Come " he said grabbing her arm " We must get up there by the trees " she allowed him to help her to stand,a wave of dizziness gripping her as she rose to her feet. " Steady" he said gently " I am fine " she replied shaking her head and focusing on the trees above them. Half way between the water line and the trees she was stopped by a mighty roar and great splashing and she turned to look. There in the middle of the lake the water was rising up. She felt her hand being grabbed and she was being pulled to the trees almost running backwards as she tried to see what was happening. Just as they reached the trees the waters cascaded down from the head and long neck of the monster.Keelagh stopped dead she knew what the creature was.She shook off the hand of the man and moved forward. Watching the monster,a sea dragon,emerging from the lake,the sky had darkened,it was suddenly dark as night.

The Dragon looked directly at her,his wings emerging from the water,she knew that she was his target and her blood ran cold. Before the Dragon could make his move a roar signalled a shot of flame that seared its neck. He lifted his head Keelagh forgotten for the moment. Bryntich swooped in again and another shot of flame hit the sea Dragon. Suddenly he rose from the water and took to the sky. He would fight for his life.
keelagh stood on the ground and watched the battle in the air,Bryntich was a much larger Dragon,but his movements in the air belayed his size as he swooped and spun and whirled,breathing fire and slashing with his Talons when he got near. The Sea Dragon more used to the water than the air was slower in its movements,and could not turn as well,he could however slash with his Talons and twice Keelagh saw the Talons rip into her beloved friend. There was nothing she could do to help,she was powerless in this battle. Suddenly the Sea Dragon was above Bryntich and preparing to breath fire which seemed to be directed to his eyes,this would effectively blind the big Dragon if only for a little while,long enough though for the other to gain the advantage,Keelagh held her breath. Before the smaller Dragon could release his flame his head was besieged by a much smaller opponent,that swooped in and clawed at the eyes and out again,the beast roared in pain,as blood gushed from the wounds. Bryntich had flown up and over the other and now grabbed his neck in one giant claw and his back in another and in one huge move reached in with a foreclaw to go through the softer chest scales and rip out the heart of his opponent. It was over he released the body of the Sea Dragon and it tumbled back to the water,lifeless no longer a threat to anyone.
Bryntich flew down to the ground and landed neatly and smoothly,lying down as soon as he did. Keelagh ran to him " Bryn how badly are you hurt?" she asked him when she reached his large head. " Tis nothing a unicorn cannot cure Keely " he answered. Magryth! Keelagh realised she hadn`t seen him since she regained her senses
" I am here Keelagh" a voice spoke beside her, she breathed a sigh of relief of course he would be hid because of the man. She looked behind her where the man was stood his arms crossed and his hand on his chin " Well I must say you are a curious group " he said musingly " A Dragon, a Unicorn,A Wolf and a beautiful woman "
"You can see Magryth?" she said shocked
" Of course I can see all magical creatures tis the bain of my life" he laughed. Magryth snorted " So much for magical cloaks" he said joining in the laughter.
" I am Yailith you are Keelagh,I know because the others called you by name " He held out his hand in a gesture of friendship. Keelagh clasped his hand. " The Sea Dragon it was looking for you when it came out of that water" he said to her " Why would it want to hurt you above others?"
" More to the point Yailith, why was a Sea Dragon in this lake? " she looked out at the lake.
"It would seem Keelagh that someone wishes to stop you completing your quest" Bryntich quietly mused.
" yes Bryn it would seem so " Keelagh replied still looking out at the lake where the body of the Sea Dragon had now sunk out of sight.

Part Two... A City Waits
Chapter four...Of Soldiers and Sailors.

Goltech watched with seeming disinterest the antics of the thirty men messing with the boats in the middle of the lake,her head rested on her crossed claws,and her eyes for the most part remained closed. Myriad would glance at her from time to time as she helped the men prepare for their journey.
It had taken four days to get together the men and find a way to get the long boats into the caverns,had they had longer they could have built better boats inside the cavern,but as it was time was running out and they had to use what they had. They had decided in the end to send three boats instead of the two Goltech had suggested,just in case something was to happen. Three boats,ten men per boat. A mixture of sailors and soldiers,for they would need both on this mission. She was pleased to discover that the sailors had as much respect for Captain Kaliq as the soldiers had and there had been no need to make decisions on who was to lead the rescue mission,it would be Kaliq. The hardest part had been trying to disguise the antics of thirty men preparing for a mission as exercises meant to be used in an emergancy. Once they had set off on their journey however it would be different,she would have to find a different and more plausible excuse for the dissapearence of thirty soldiers and sailors. But she would deal with that when it was time. Meanwhile the supplies were being loaded on to the boats and she would soon have to return to the city.

The six men in the chamber on the third floor were discussing the strange antics of Myriad.
" Would you like to verify for us Klenyth that our queen has not taken leave of her senses,exercises with soldiers and sailors,what good are they against what is coming?"
" As we have no idea what is coming,who can say what defences will or will not work,calm yourself Bruin Our Lady knows what she does" Bruin stopped his pacing and looked at Klenyth " Do you not think that the lords of Brachnech did not do exercises? It did them no good " he declared scathingly.
" Brachnech had no more idea of what was coming than we have Bruin " Darg said quietly trying to calm the large rotund counsellor.
" We know it cannot be beaten through exercises" he turned on Darg " We think she should be restricted" he finished pompously indicating with his hand the other three gentlemen in the chamber. Klenyth looked at him,a long cool look and then turned to the others
" You wish to try to restrict the Queen? " he asked them quietly. Two went a lovely shade of red,the third looked calmly back. A tall stately man with dark hair and darker eyes,he smiled a slow smile " Klenyth I wish only to know what it is our Lady hopes to gain from these exercises which take soldiers and sailors from their duties,as for restricting,twould be easier to stop the wind " he finished with a wink.
" Has it occured to any of you that this is her way of keeping the city calm? " Klenyth asked " That by seeing things being done the people are all going about their lives without undue worry?" He turned to the tall stately man " You wish to know what she hopes to gain,surely you of all people Anton can see the benefits of keeping the people happy and the soldiers and sailors occupied" Anton bowed slightly to Klenyth " As always Klenyth I bow to your superior knowledge,the Queen shall be left to play her games " and with that he left the chamber. Klenyth watched him leave,he knew the last had been sarcastic,but he also knew for now he had won the argument the others would not follow Bruin if Anton didn`t. He knew what Myriad was doing but with a traitor in the ranks he could say nothing just protect her as best he could.
" Shall we continue with the days business Gentlemen?" he asked the others and they all joined him at the large table.

Finally the boats were ready,all supplies and equipment on board soldiers and sailors distributed evenly through the boats.Only Kaliq was left to board,he stood at the side of the lake waiting for his final orders which were to come from Goltech. She had opened her eyes as the last of the men had clambered aboard.
" You have chosen your men well,Captain Kaliq" she said to him " All brave and strong as they will have need to be" The captain bowed to the Dragon " We are at your service,Golden One " he answered.
" The journey will not be easy,tis long years since the river route was last used between the cities,not since the last wars.Who knows what dangers lurk there or how the rivers have changed the shape of their course.The only guidance I can give you is to always steer to the left river when you should come across a fork. Five forks down the river changes and you have three ways to choose,you must choose the middle way. The other two ways look calmer and easier but do not be fooled Captain,choose the middle only,now go,be safe and May the Goddess of light go with you " Having finished her speech she once more closed her huge Green eyes.
The Captain walked to the edge of the lake,Myriad accompanied him. " Take care Kaliq,it is important that the eggs do not fall into the hands of the power beseiging Brachnech,Speedy and safe journey " He bowed low over the hand offered " I will not fail you My Lady " he turned and climbed aboard the little boat waiting to take him out to the larger boat at the head of the small convoy in the middle of the lake.
Myriad stood and watched as the boats one by one lifted anchor and set off into the large tunnel where the lake flowed,the oars dipping in long strong strokes.
" I shall leave you and return to the city Goltech " she said turning to the Dragon.
" There is still much to be done"
" The Dragons must be prepared Myriad as well as the people " Goltech answered " Argarth will do that duty for me and you must be wary of the ones close to you " she finished. Myriad waited but the Dragon said no more. Turning she made her way back out to return to the city.It was beginning to feel like old times and while she knew the dangers they would be facing, she couldnt help feeling the old thrill of adventure coursing through her veins once more.

Part Two...A city Waits
Chapter Three
Of Queens and Couriers

Goltech rose and as she did so the light in the cavern grew stronger reflecting and shimmering off her golden scales. Once stood the light settled to a steady strong glow.
" You have been long in coming Myriad" She said her voice as Golden as her body.Myriad had skirted the lake and now stood before the dragon Queen.
" We have a traitor Goltech,I had no desire to put the eggs in danger or you for that matter"
Goltechs eyes lit with amusement " There are few that can come near that I would not know and defeat " she replied. " Still your decision was wise as always,and now you have come for mine "
" Brachnech will fall I fear we cannot help them,the magic is too strong" Myriad sat down on a rock nearby,suddenly feeling weary and saddened at the thought that she could not help her friends in the neighbouring land. " And when it does the eyes and hands of that magic will turn this way " she continued.
" I know what you fear Myriad,tis almost hatching time one of the batches holds the new Queen,when she is born my time will be almost done " Goltech said quietly " It is too late to destroy the eggs,they are too near hatching,they must be rescued and brought here" she announced turning her head to look at a nearby tunnel. It was through that tunnel that the eggs lay,the only way to it was past Goltech and that would never be easy. " The city is under seige and cannot be reached because of the mist,but,it can be reached by the underground river" she turned back and looked once again at Myriad. " It will take two boats to rescue the eggs Myriad and enough men to man them,brave men,the underground river is not without danger" Myriad looked at the lake and followed its course to the tunnels,she turned back to the dragon Queen " If that is what you wish then I will find the men to do this " she told her.
" The new queen must be protected at all costs Myriad,she is after all the future of my race " this last was said very quietly and Myriad thought she had detected a hint of bitterness in the tone. She shook her head of course she was mistaken,wistfullness perhaps had been there a desire to be young and things be new again,Myriad herself had experienced this of late. " I will be replaced long before you Goltech " she said trying to give the dragon some comfort. She stood again " I will return to the city and make ready the means for the rescue of the eggs " she said and turned to walk away " Why did you send Keelagh on that quest myriad?" Goltech asked her gently. Myriad stopped and thought for a moment then turning she said " You dont think she will find the Warrior? "
" Is there one to find? Is it not just an attempt to keep her away from Duranbro?" Myriad looked at the dragon now with new eyes,Keelagh had been sent because of a dream,a vision,things that Myriad was used to getting and that she always heeded,why did Goltech not know this? " There is indeed a Warrior Goltech,the problem is when Keelagh finds him will it be in time?"
" Not when Myriad,if she will have dangers to face too, I presume Bryntich accompanies her?"
" She goes nowhere without him" Myriad stated calmly though slightly angered by Goltechs dismissal of the Quest.
" He is not the best of guardians, Myriad, clumsy and inept,surely she would have been better with an older wiser companion? "
" He will protect her with his life if need be Goltech,he was the one she chose,and as you already know we have lost sight of them since the mountain range "
" Yes I know I may go look myself when dusk comes,but it will matter not Myriad,what will be cannot be changed " and with that the Dragon Queen laid herself down and closed her eyes.
Myriad made her way back out of the tunnel,she was slightly puzzled with the way the Dragon Queen had acted but sighing she put it down to being worried over the eggs that lay beneath the city of Brachnech. Once back outside she found Argarth waiting for her.
" We must go to the boat men and the soldiers Argarth we need to find those that will go through the Dark rivers and rescue the eggs" she said to him as they walked away from the once again hidden caves.
" Might I suggest Myriad the good Captain Kaliq,he will know who he can trust and who will be brave enough to last such a task "
" You are right of course we will return to the city and I will summon Kaliq" she said and went to climb upon his back
" Actually Myriad I was thinking more of speaking to him now out here,where no prying ears can listen" Myriad laughed " Argarth you are the wisest of all my counsellors,and I suppose you know where the good Captain is? "
" He is in the meadow exercising his horse Myriad " he said lifting his great claw to point with. They walked down to the meadow and there was the tall dark captain,just as Argarth had said he would be. Myriad called to him and coming over to her he bowed and she began to tell him what she needed from him. While she talked he listened closely nodding his head every so often. Off in the distance by a stand of trees a figure stood, watching, unseen by the ones in the meadow.

Part two..A City waits
Chapter Two
Of meetings and Men.

Once dressed for her travels Myriad crossed to the tall windows and pulled the hangings to allow in the sunlight,as the cloth parted she jumped and gave a cry of surprise at the large eye peering in at her. " Argarth!!!" she cried " Would you be rid of me? My heart stopped then,rogue! " she finished laughing.
" I thought you might like me to collect you,save you the long climb up the Tower steps,and of course prevent the fumbling efforts of would-be-assasins" he said in a low rumbling voice,winking the great eye.There had been two attempts on her life in the past months and though Argarth made light of it in jests she knew it worried him.
" You wish me to climb out of the window? " she asked laughingly. " Well it would not be the first time,Lady of Duranbro,now would it?" he said laughing at her. She smiled at the memories of herself as a girl sneaking out of the window onto Argarths back and flying off to have adventures. The smile became wistful when she then thought of the man that had shared those adventures and who now,was missing,and had been for many years. She hoped still,believed still that he was out there somewhere. Though all around her believed him dead. She shook her head to dispell the thoughts and looked once again at Argarth,waiting patiently,he knew what she had been thinking. " We are cloaked once you climb out,Myriad as I can see by the way you are dressed that you intend to go somewhere else before the caverns" he said amusement in his voice " The mountain range perhaps?"
" You always know Argarth,what I intend to do before I do" She laughed as she climbed through the tall windows and onto his back. He turned his long neck so he could look at her,making sure she was comfortable before turning back and setting off into the sky and wheeling towards the mountain range from where Keelagh had last been seen.
In another room far at the other end of building from where Myriad had just departed two men sat at a table,documents open in front of them.
" I dont get why she cant just let us do what has to be done instead of going wandering off where she could be in danger" One of them mumbled,moving papers about. Klenyth looked at him " She is in far less danger away from here with Argarth than she is staying,seems we have those that wish her harm inside the walls of the city,but you wouldn`t know anything about that would you Darg?" Darg stopped shuffling documents and glared at Klenyth.
" Are you saying you think I had something to do with the attempts on her life,Klenyth?" he hissed at him,anger showing in red marks on his cheeks. " I protected her,I was the one who disposed of one of the assasins and got wounded in doing so" his voice steadily rose untill the last bit was almost shouted.
" Calm yourself Darg,this tension is making me suspicious of all,somewhere amongst our friends and members of the council there is a traitor,someone who wishes to speed the fall of the city by taking out its heart" Darg relaxed a little the red spots of anger diminishing.
" Klenyth I grew up with that woman,I watched her grow from a small child into a beautiful woman,as you did,I watched her and shared her joy when she married,I shared her pain when there could be no children after the third attempt ended once again in a sickly baby dead in days,I watched her heart be torn out when the man she loved beyond death,dissapeared,feared dead. I would give my life for that woman,our Queen,willingly and gladly" He looked down at his hands,they wre gripping the papers till the knuckles were white. Klenyth looked at him he knew that Darg was not given to long speeches,especially emotional ones,he knew he could trust him.
" There is something you are now to be privy to,Darg. Few people know but if ought should happen to me or Myriad then there has to be someone else who knows the secret apart from the four that already do,so listen up and I shall tell you a story " And with that he leaned forward and began to talk quietly and slowly.

The sun was up and the valley below shone in its glow,Myriad stood where Keelagh had stood days before.Argarth had gone inside the cave and was looking for any sign that they may have left. " It seems our Dear Bryn may have had a sneezing fit" he laughed
" Are you sure thats what it was Argarth?" she asked nervously
" Oh yes " he replied putting his head through the opening " They left here fine,and entered the forest "
" what is that mist,is it the same as at Branbech?" she asked him pointing to the forest beyond which there lay a mist that obscured the view.
" No Myriad that one is just to prevent the watchers from following Keelagh,had they not been cowards and continued on they would have passed through it with no harm" he said in a derisive tone.
" So how do we find where she went?" she asked turning to him
" We dont,we wait" he said to her gently " Come Myriad time is moving and you need to speak to Goltech"
" Shall I send Eli?" she asked the Dragon not wanting to move,wanting to follow that elusive trail through the forest,feeling the old siren call of adventure beckoning her.
" Eli!what a good idea,noone will give him second thought" Argarth agreed. turning back towards the forest Myriad began to whistle,two long notes,she repeated them twice and waited.Within a few minutes she could see a small dark shape in the sky off in the distance ,as it came nearer she could make out the long feathers of his wings.She placed a leather strap on her arm and held it out full length,and the large Eagle glided down and landed gently on the outstretched arm.She stroked his feathered head with delicate fingers and he rubbed his beak against her cheek gently in greeting. " I wish you to go and find Keelagh,Eli" she said softly " go watch over her so she may come back safe" The Eagle looked at her for long seconds then rubbed her cheek again with his beak,she lifted her arm and he took flight,up an up he went and then wheeling he turned and headed to the forest.
They watched as he flew over the forest circled and then flew on and into the Mist.
"Come Argarth to the Golden one" She climbed back onto the seat on his back and once again they took to the skies.
Back towards the city they flew cloaked in magic so as not to be observed,landing just outside the city in front of a huge wall of green vines. As they approached the vines moved aside and there was the entrance to a huge cavern. Entering the gloomy cavern from the bright sunshine it took her a few minute to adjust to the different light before setting off down the many tunnels towards the centre. Luckily some of the tunnels were made for humans some for Dragons so Argarth would be there somewhere all the while. After what seemed like hours but was only in fact about half of one she came out into the huge Cavern that was the center,Bright it was in here,with a large lake at its middle that ran off as a river through other tunnels that could only be accessed by boat.At the opposite side of the lake to her lay The most beautiful Dragon in the land.Her colour was Golden and shone with light reflected. Huge Green eyes that now gazed at her as she stood gazing back. This was Goltech the Queen of the Dragons.

Warrior of Duranbro
Part two..A City waits
Chapter one
Of Dragons and Deceit.

He hurried along the cold flagged corridor,past the silk hangings and the murals,not stopping to gaze as he usually liked to do at the beautiful colours depicting the scenes of the beginning and the years since.Into the little ante-chamber where the serving girl was pouring hot chocolate in to a pot ready for serving in the main room.
" Is she awake" he asked the girl pausing before the door to the next chamber.
" At this time,she is always awake" she replied without raising her eyes from her task.
He tapped gently on the door and on hearing the command to enter opened the door and entered the chamber. She stood with her back to him gazing out of the window,her long dark hair was loose and flowed down her back.She wore a simple gown of palest blue the bodice criss crossed with lines of silver thread.
" You have news for me,Klenyth?" she asked enquiringly without turning.
" My lady,there is news from Brachnech " she turned and looked at him,the cool grey eyes were steady and clear.
" I already know the news from Bracnech,Klenyth,the Dragons fly faster than the messanger rides " she motioned for him to sit in one of the chairs at the table and she crossed and took another. He waited untill she was seated before he took his place.
" And what of Keelagh,Klenyth,what news of her?" she watched him as he shook his head and replied softly " No news My lady,not since she entered the forest "
She glanced down at her folded hands and just as quietly replied " It puzzles me Klenyth how one can lose sight of one of the largest Dragons of the realm and the warrior with him " she looked back at him her grey eyes cold " Does it not puzzle you?" she asked.
" My lady, the watchers were unable to go further than the mountain,when Keelagh entered the forest a great mist came down over the land and shrouded all.When it was gone so was she and Bryntich " She continued the cold stare for several moments before replying with a sigh
" You have told me this once already,I do not accept that the watchers could not,rather that they would not,they ran home tails between their legs the minute they came across the first hurdle " her voice was cold but still even in anger she was calm.
Klenyth lowered his head,he knew her anger wasn`t directed at him pesonally,still it hurt him when that cold look came in her eyes. The maid tapped on the door and entered the chamber with the steaming pot of hot Chocolate which she placed on the table with two mugs. Myriad smiled at her warmly " Thankyou Gwynn " she said and the maid smiling back bowed her head at her and left the room beaming.
" So to Bracnech" she said turning back to him the cold look gone from the beautiful eyes. She lifted the pot and poured two pots of steaming chocolate while she waited for him to speak.
" The Dragon riders cannot get near as you are already aware,we have lost four more in the past two days,we cannot afford to send more if we do we will lower our own defences " He said accepting the steaming mug.
" How much longer can they hold out Kenlyth?"
" Their own Dragons are unable to fly because of this mist that surrounds the city,we know not what magic it is,but it is powerful,it grounds the Dragons the minute they attempt to fly through it,we can get no food to them,we know not how much they have left,according to the rider a few weeks at most"
" And the bombardments continue,soon they will have to seal the cave entrances,if the city falls and they reach the eggs" She looked off into the distance the thought that evil magic might reach the eggs before hatching was a fate she didn`t want to contemplate. They didn`t know yet which batch of eggs held the new queen Brachnechs or Duranbros,evil magic could not be allowed to reach the queen even if it meant destroying the eggs themselves. Something else she didn`t want to contemplate.
" I shall have to speak with the Golden one " she said quietly " You will have to watch over the city while I am gone"
" Is it wise My lady? should we not be looking to prepare for the fall of Bracnech"
" The people are already gathering supplies to keep the city from starvation should we come under seige,nothing more can be done yet awhile. The Golden one must be consulted and news of her decision then somehow has to be conveyed to Brachnech " Klenyth rose to take his leave
" When will you go My Lady?" he asked as he went towards the door
" I will go today at some point,Argarth will take me,you will just keep people occupied I should not be long two days perhaps "
" I shall do your bidding My Lady and the rider?"
" Make him comfortable Klenyth,he cannot go home,not yet"
He left the chamber and she walked to the dressing room to prepare for her journey to consult the Golden One.

Chapter four....The crossing

Keelagh shook her head,that was no doll it moved,it blinked at her it was staring at her as much as she was staring at it,well her it was clearly female. Suddenly the little creature flapped the little wings attatched to her and floated off the hand and up to Magryths ear,with her hand cupped round her mouth she appeared to be talking to the Unicorn. Magryths head was slightly lowered and it looked as though his eyes were half closed as he listened intently to what the little creature said.
The man/child was staring in open mouthed wonder at the Unicorn who was now visible to all. When she had finished talking she moved back from his ear and turned looking once again at Keelagh,hovering in place,the little wings fluttering so fast they were a blur.
Magryth raised his head " It seems we have made the acquaintence of Trulith,she is of the Wee folk that live in the Forest of Glenich. Where apparently we are heading once we have crossed the lake?"
" We are?" asked Keelagh
" Yes to return her home,Keelagh,We are crossing the Lake anyway are we not?"
" Yes, to be honest Magryth this quest is one of seeking,who knows where I am to find that which I am sent to search for? I was just told to go in one direction that I would know the right way!"
" And so you will Keelagh and if you can help others along the way it will make the journey easier"
" Will you be able to sail in the boat Magryth?" Keelagh asked looking at the large craft
" Yes Keelagh only Bryn will be unable" She turned to the Dragon who had appeared while they talked causing the man/childs jaw to drop even farther.
" You will have to fly across Bryn,which I know you can do with ease but it seems a long way we cannot even see the other side from here"
" There is a mist Keely I have flown close to it but not through it,it hangs over the water,that is why you cannot see the other side"
For the first time since seeing Magryth the man/child spoke " Tis the monster" he cried quite alarmed. They all turned to look at him.
" I go now you takes her she will takes you over the water so you dont get sunked" and with that he turned and ran back to the rocks and scrambled over them.
The tiny creature once again talked into Magryths ear.
" We have to go Keelagh now while it is light,Trulith says we will not be able to cross when it is dark"
"Then let us get on the boat" walking towards where it was anchored.
when they had taken the packs off Bryntich and stored them on the boat and finally persuaded Wraith to get onboard Keelagh turned to Bryn who was standing on the shore. " I wish you didn`t have to fly without us Bryn,that you could fit in here too"
" I never was much of a sailor Keely" he said with a wink and a grin " It is you I am concerned for be careful through the mist"
" I will Bryn I am not much of a sailor myself though" she said grimacing at the memory of the few times she had been on a boat. she turned and climbed aboard and then turned back to wave at Bryn as he soared into the air and followed his flight as he flew out over the lake. She pulled the rope that held the anchor and as it freed the boat began to move out into the lake with the tide. As the only human aboard she had to set the sails though she wasn`t a sailor she had seen it done and after a few failed attempts and then guided by instructions from Trulith via Magryth she finally managed to get the single sail up and the wind now blew into it and the boat started to move forward at a faster rate. At first it was quite smooth and they seemed to be making good progress across the lake. Wraith was not at all happy and lay on the deck with his ears down and flat. The further they went the clearer the mist became,the nearer they got to it the more apprehensive Keelagh became. Trulith had come and settled on her shoulder at one point though she had not spoken to her yet and now she was sat in the pocket of her waistcoat with her arms and shoulders out and holding on to the edge of it as though she was leaning on some garden wall. Keelagh didn`t mind she quite liked the little creature.
The boat began to move into the mist and Keelagh noticed how thick it seemed like a curtain.As it closed around them she saw that she could only just make out the shapes of the others on the boat. It was dark and clammy and deathly quiet. Wraith began growling a long low rumbling sound.Even Magryth was nervous blowing air through his nostrils and shaking his long mane.The boat stopped moving the sail suddenly losing all air as the wind they had been using died. She moved to get the oars so she could get them out of this nasty place and as she did the boat began to rock,gently at first and then more violently till she could not stand and was feared she would spill over the side.Magryth was having difficulty standing and then Trulith spoke in her ear " Shout at it tell it to behave" she said " what shout at who?" Keelagh asked bewildered " The creature tell it to behave" Keelagh did not question further but instead shouted out into the mist " Leave off now behave yourself" The rocking stopped,the boat once again still,she waited and then got the oars and fastening them began to row out of the mist,the boat was half out of the mist,she at the end that was still in and Magryth at the end that was out when it began rocking again,she commanded Wraith to join Magryth but he would not move just continued to growl that low menacing growl.she shouted again at the creature to behave and the rocking slowed and they were almost out. Suddenly the boat heaved up in the water and tipped she felt herself flying towards the other end of the boat unable to grab anything to hold on to,her head hit the wood and she felt a sharp pain and then a cold sensation as she hit the water and then darkness descended.

Chapter Three
The boat and the Lake.
For three days they had walked along the lake,four nights they had camped at the lakeside.The Wolf had grown stronger and was walking a little more each day,though still weak he ate and drank and when tired took his place upon Bryntichs wing where now he lay with eyes open watching as they traveled. Keelagh had named him Wraith,not a sound had issued from him since the first day. When she gave him food he licked her hand.When she spoke to him he watched her face.But he made no sound.When he tired of walking he merely raised his paw and caught her arm and then laid down.Bryntich always knew and would land if he was flying or stop if he was walking and lift him onto the wing which he always gently folded over him . Keelagh had watched the growing friendship between Wolf and Dragon,she was not envious,Wraith walked with her when Bryntich flew always at her side never ahead or behind.
There had been no adventures,they had met noone man nor beast,they had seen no villages.This worried Keelagh in such a lush land as this,surely people would inhabit such a beautiful place,but there was noone.
This was the morning of the fourth day,they had been walking since dawn about two hours now,they had still found no way across the lake that seemed to stretch forever,before them was a range of small hills not very tall,too tall to see over but too small to cause them problems in climbing them,Magryth had reached the top before she and Wraith and he stood, the breeze blowing through his silver tail and mane. As she reached the top she looked down and saw why he stood making no attempt to move on down the other side. Below the hill the landscape had changed from lush green meadows leading to the waters edge to a sparser type of grass leading to what looked like a pebbly beach. Several boats were sat on the beach and when she looked to the left she could see the scattering of huts that made up the village of the boat people.
" I have to cloak myself" Magryth said as she joined him " and stay outside the village,I will wait here for you by the waters edge" he looked down towards the boats as he spoke.
" I wonder why we have seen no signs of these people till now?" she asked him
" Maybe the hills are their border Keelagh,you said yourself that the valley we have just left was dangerous and there was something strange about it "
" Yes I have had the feeling that we were being followed yet could see nothing when I looked,I shall go down to the village and see if I can secure a boat to take us across the lake" she said setting off down the hill
" Be careful Keelagh" Magryth called after her.
Wraith had stopped at the top of the hill as Keelagh set off down,his head lifted sniffing the air,she stopped and turned to look at him. She had to admit she would feel safer with him at her side but could understand if he was wary to go into the village where there would be people,she had no knowledge of his past and didn`t know what dealings he might have had with man. He stood a few moments his head on one side as if contemplating what he was going to do,then he moved down the hill to her side and just gazed at her with those huge green eyes.
" So you are going to join me Wraith " she said reaching out a hand to stroke his head " Come then let us go see if we can make these folk understand what we need " and with that they both went off down the hill towards the huts.
When she looked back up the hill she could see no sign of Magryth or Bryntich but she knew they were there Magryth must have cloaked Bryn too.
She reached the small cluster of huts,but could see no sign of life,no movements to signify anyone was watching. Beyond the huts was a small stand of trees in a line only about three deep and the ground looked to dip beyond them and so she went towards them. For the first time since he had joined them Wraith made a noise,a low growling sound,she looked at him,his ears were back along his head and his coat was stood in a line along his back. She drew her sword but held it at her side as she entered the little stand of trees. She could see clearly beyond the trees that the land dipped away and there in the dip was a village,from what she could see there were huts and two large buildings which she took to be the home of the lord and possibly a hall for meetings,she went to move forward and Wraith stood before her and wouldn`t let her pass,his growling increased.
" Does it bite your doggy" A voice said from in front and to the side of her,she could see noone but Wraith could,suddenly his ears went back up and his Growl became less menacing,he stood and watched whoever it was in the shadow of the trees.
" Why dont you come out and see" she said
" Oooooh no,it might be biting me" the voice replied,the accent was very thick and Keelagh could only just make out the words,
" If he wanted to bite you he would have already done so" she said trying to see the owner of the voice " Come out I dont bite either"
" Dont knows if`n I should" Keelagh began to think she was talking to a child,but the voice was strong like a mans.
" Fair enough I shall just go on to the village then and let you be" and she went to move forward again
" Baint noones about,theys all in the hall"" The voice said,it took Keelagh a moment to realise what he meant.A village meeting.
" Then why are you not in the hall?" she asked gently.
" theys dont let me go,I`s too stupid to knows what theys say" and out he came from the trees. He was a small sized man/child,she had seen ones like him at home.The clear smooth face,the oval eyes and protruding brow.Of the ones she knew though they may be slow in some things they excelled in others,some had difficulty with speech others in handling objects but they were all of them,sweet and good natured.
" Yous wanting a boat" he said looking at her with a grin on his face.
"You are very clever " she replied " And how do you know this"
" Oh she told me" he said casually " Theys wont give you a boat,but i can show you where there is one that theys dont know about" He whispered this last bit
" Wouldnt they take us over the lake then?" she asked mildly amused at his conspiratel whispering
" No,No! " his face now alarmed at what she had said " Monsters in the lake,monsters that get you!" She tried not to laugh as he was clearly serious and agitated by the 'lake monster'
" Monsters in the lake yet you would let us cross it?"
" Ah but yous be safe,if`n you takes her with you" he said slyly. Keelagh was now intrigued.
" who should I take" she asked
" I shows you,but only if you promise to takes her"
" How can I promise when I dont know who she is,or how big the boat is?" she asked
" Come" he replied and with that set off back the way Keelagh had come. Keelagh hesitated to follow him looking again at the village but Wraith turned and trotted after him so she too turned and followed.
He took her to the boats pulled up on the pebbly beach and as she neared them she could see that each boat had large holes in the hull,not one was able to sail.
" Come come" he said as she hesitated,he took her along the pebbly beach to a large outcrop of rocks which he scrambled over Wraith followed him and so she too followed.On the other side of the rocks was a boat larger than the ones on the beach,clearly anchored to prevent its moving away it sat in the waters at the edge of the lake.
" Yous can takes this one"
" Will the people of your village not be cross if we take this without permission?" she asked him
" No " he shook his head " Theys dont know of this one,its sunked"
"Pardon"
" They thinks its sunked in the lake"
" Ahh they think it sank in the lake" she finally understood what he meant.
" Surely they would have seen it here when they come down to the lake?" She was more puzzled than ever
" Theys dont come to the lake cos of the Monster" he was becoming impatient with her now " there is boat you takes her,yes?"
Keelagh was stuck now,they needed the boat,but she was wary of promising to take the mysterious Her suddenly a voice whispered in her ear " Agree Keelagh" Magryth! she smiled and turned to the young man.
" I shall take your friend where is she?"
He smiled and put his hand into his bag that hung round his shoulders,taking his hand back out holding something gently,Keelagh laughed at herself why it was going to be nothing more than a doll or some such thing. He opened his hand and Keelagh stood totally mesmerised by the tiny creature sat there.

Chapter Two continued.
Then there were Four.

The sun was making its way towards the horizon by the time they reached the edge of the lake that Magryth had chosen as their campsite. There were a few trees about and the land was lush with grass that grew tall and bright. Nearer the lake the grass was shorter and reeds grew along the banks. It was still warm from the days bright sunshine. They had gathered kindling as they went for the fire they would need as the sun set,this was stored in a large sack attatched to Bryntichs back. Lighting fires was never a problem with a Dragon as a companion,and Bryntich had a knack of being able to control his flame when he needed to,from little fireballs to an inferno. But then he was a special Dragon,not a common Green or Red Dragon as most back in Duranbro were but descended from the Main Dragon line of pure blood,irredescant colours and a wicked sense of humour. He was by Dragon standards still a youngster,being only a mere 147 years old. He played pranks and was quite mischevious,which is probably how she had been paired with him. They had been together now two decades and she couldn`t imagine doing anything without him.Though she still got thrown off when his landing ended in disaster she had now learnt to roll and not be injured.
She stood at the edge of the lake and gazed out across the waters,it was huge and she knew that tomorrow they may have to find a way across,normally she would fly over on Bryns back,but they had the Wolf and Magryth to think about now and while Magryth could find a way and rejoin them without much effort the Wolf could not. She stooped and gathered water in the pan so she could let the wolf drink.
The Wolf was once again laid beneath Bryntichs wing,his breathing was more even though his nose was still warm and dry. As she knelt beside him he opened his eyes and looked directly at her. He had the strangest eyes,she was used to Wolves having amber eyes or deep brown ones but his were the brightest Green almost the same colour as her own. She put the pan down beside his head and he lifted it slightly to lap at the cool water. He then laid back down and closed his eyes as though the effort had been too much and he was weary again.
She took some strips of meat from her bag round her waist and placed them beneath his nose,he sniffed but never opened his eyes and made no attempt to eat them. She left them there and went round to the Dragons head.
" He will eat when he is ready Keelagh" Bryntich said " He is weary and sleep helps him to build his strength"
" I worry about the days to be lost crossing the lake Bryn" she answered " I do not like this valley,it is dangerous,not least because of the beasts and the men that hunt Magryth"
" Yes they still look for him,but he knows it,he is safe with us for now at least" Bryntich looked towards the Unicorn stood some way from them his head up looking back to where they had come from.
" We are a strange gathering Keelagh,but there is always a reason,you know this,even for the presence of the White one"
" Yes I know Bryn but each day we delay is another day that Duranbro comes nearer to destruction,we have no knowledge of what is happening there,for all we know it could already have fallen " Keelagh shook her head trying to dispell pictures of her beloved home in ruins and burning.
" No Keelagh Duranbro still stands,the battle has not yet reached it. It is still being fought at Brachnech" Magryth stated as he joined them. " Though we have need of more allies if they are using the old ways,there is a forest I know of where we may find some allies but we need to tavel some while yet before we reach it "
" perhaps your allies may not want to join a battle so far away" said Bryntich looking at the Unicorn , "If the black ones win Bryntich it is not just Duranbro that will be destroyed. The future of your race lies beneath the city in the caves,I have no need to remind you that the Dragon eggs have to be protected. There are many different species whose futures will be destroyed if the dark ones succeed"
"We will speak with your allies Magryth,but for now we need to settle for the night" Keelagh said donning her long cloak.
" I will keep first watch" Magryth declared trotting off to circle the camp site.
" I will take the second Bryn,you protect our friend and keep him warm " Keelagh said stroking the Dragons long snout.
" I am always on watch Keely" he said with a wink " Though I may do it with me eyes closed"
She laughed and went to settle beside the fire it would be a long night in a hostile land and tomorrow a new adventure if today was anything to go by.

Picture by Jon-the-Man