Dragon Queen: Book One-Scarlet Reign

Chapter Twenty-Four -The Golden Dragon

Aelwen checked on the prince after giving a cheerful goodbye to Erno. He was still unconscious, the doctor running a few tests on his shoulders and back to see how his body was reacting to his new lack of wings. Aelwen turned back and headed for her tent. She was exhausted and wanted to get some well-earned rest.

To her surprise, her things had been removed from her abode. A note pinned to the wall stated that her permanent residence had been decided upon, and was now located next to the historical archives.

A good spot, I suppose. However... Aelwen froze at the thought of being near there when Gerel's family exited from the tent after their talk, considering Kera's treat. I'll just quickly slip into my new home. Kera will hopefully be none the wiser.

The archives tent stood proudly against the backdrop of tall redwood trees. Aelwen looked to the left to see a brand new tent freshly set up about eight yards away. Painted over the entrance was the name Ealwen.

Aelwen paused for a moment. They misspelled it... She thought, grimacing. Let's hope I'll be able to have it changed later, else that is really going to bother me.

The red-canvassed enclosure was much larger than her previous one. A wooden-framed bed with no legs sat at the very back, tiny nightstands flanking it. A low table graced the middle of the room, her drawing things placed upon it. Several chests contained her clothing, as well as a few brand new garments. A full-length mirror stood near the bed, a shelving unit near it decked with her few novels. Underneath it all was a large dark red circular rug covering the entire floor.

Aelwen was in love with this new home. All of the furnishings were detailed with wonderful Koanan stylings. Wood was etched with the elegant curves and harsh lines of what Aelwen assumed was their alphabet. Pillows and sheets bore embroidered scenes of animals scampering through green woods and cherry blossoms dancing through intangible breezes.

Perhaps I can finally start drawing again, now that I have a moment alone.

Grabbing her sketchbook and pencil, Aelwen plopped herself down on the comfortable bed. Propping herself up with the plethora of pillows, she opened to the first empty page and placed her pencil above it.

But what to draw is the real question...

Aelwen thought a moment. Looking at the scenes of various dragons on the pillow beside her, she decided to take inspiration.

Pencil scratching against thick paper, Aelwen sketched out a couple of the embroidered dragons. She smiled as she worked, glad to feel the quiet pleasure of drawing once again. The soft blankets shifted under her weight, letting her sink softly into their plush. Outside, the quiet strings of a guitar could be heard playing a lulling tune.

Eventually, her eyelids grew heavy, and she led herself try to take back the sleep that had been so rudely deprived from her in the morning.

"Hey. Heeeey!"

Aelwen sighed. She opened her tired eyes to see Gerel's face peeking through the tent's front entrance. She bolted upwards.

"Gerel? What's going on?" Her mind quickly latched onto her curiosity about what had transpired between him and his parents after she had left.

Gerel entered quickly, his face wearing a sincere smile. Aelwen cocked her head, wondering if the talk really had gone so well.