The Dragon's Scale [COMPLETE]

13.2 || Crumbling Worlds

The entire way to the Sanctum, Ioana walked with such purpose, Josh really believed she might spear Jodas through the skull.

I don't think Jodas did it on purpose, Boomer said, though only Josh could hear him. I can accidentally shoot lightning when I'm sleeping. I set a tree on fire once like that.

But creating a portal to a Shadow Knight on accident while asleep? Josh bit his lip. Emotions still muddled his mind, but he knew his uncertainty at thismoment was from the extremeness of the idea.

I don't know, Boomer grumbled. I just wish this wasn't all so weird.

"Jodas!" Ioana yelled the moment they stepped into the Sanctum. "You have some serious explaining to do."

The pale green dragon lay on the ground, his head curled against his body. At his name, he looked up. Thick lids slowly slid open.

Why have you awoken me? No Paladin is away, and I have not received information about a breach anywhere.

Ioana scrutinized Jodas through narrowed eyes. "You've been asleep the entire night? You haven't allowed anyone through a portal?"

Jodas snorted and started to curl back in on himself. I have not opened a portal since allowing Akachi and the young boys to return.

"Then you are completely unaware that a Shadow Knight used a portal created right here"—she gestured to Jodas' side—"to enter the Sanctuary to kidnap Xander and Josh's brother?"

Jodas lifted his head once more, now fully awake. He peered down at Ioana and growled. I am not one for human humor, so if this is a joke, it is lost on me. Either way, I suggest you do not talk to me as if you are reprimanding a babe.

Ioana drummed her fingers on her thigh for a moment, then cursed. "This is no joke, Jodas. A Shadow Knight somehow used a portal to get up here and used another to escape."

A low rumble emitted from the Elder Dragon. Ridiculous. Only I am permitted to allow anyone through the barrier. Are you suggesting I was defeated by another dragon?

"I don't know what I'm suggesting," Ioana barked. She scrunched her face and massaged her temples. "I'm just saying what's going on, but thanks for reminding me how little sense this situation makes."

Josh glanced between the two, focusing on whichever one spoke during the exchange. When he sensed a familiar presence, he looked over to find Boomer stepping out of the forest. Josh walked over and placed a hand on Boomer's head.

Thanks for coming, Josh said, running a hand over Boomer's scaled snout.

He nuzzled into Josh's hand. Sorry I didn't arrive sooner.

"Okay," Ioana said after a small silence. "I need you to connect me to everyone so I can send a message."

Snapping at me, and now making demands, Jodas grumbled.

"Yes, yes I am. Now do your job!"

Jodas flared his nostrils as his eyes slid closed. Humans and their inability to control their emotions will never cease to surprise me. He added nothing further. Probably for the best, because Josh didn't know how much longer Ioana would resist creating an energy sword and stabbing the dragon. After a few minutes, Jodas opened his eyes. They glowed green. Connected.

"Thanks." Ioana took a deep breath before closing her own eyes.

Josh raised an eyebrow. What's she doing, Boom— 

Everyone, this is Ioana Hatzis from the Sanctuary.

Josh jumped. Ioana's voice spoke into his mind just like a dragon's. Even though he only heard her, he had an odd sense that he'd stumbled into a conversation with many others.