The Dragons Den

Chapter 2

Penny for your thoughts? Saphira asked as we slowed down to a walk approaching the forest line.

Shouldn't you know what I'm thinking?

There are certain aspects of your mind I can not access, nor do I like to probe at the thoughts you have closed off.

I was just thinking about Mertag, I need to find a husband soon and start a life. I'm twenty years old Saphira, I'm not going to have this pretty face forever. That and I would like a family too before I die.

The gift you were bestowed at birth, being able to talk to anyone or anything that chooses you, may do that when a man is right for you and chooses you. Think about it, every animal you have connected with has been configured to fit you. Like me, while riding without this absurd leather thing on my back, my body is fit for you to ride. Anyone else would feel uncomfortable. 

Maybe you are right. I just hope it happens soon.

The walked up to the edge and Zarla got off the saddle and grabbed her tack.

I'll see you soon Saphira. Run fast back home, I don't want you getting hurt. Make sure you link with me and tell me that you are back. Okay?

Saphira just nodded her big head. She put her head over Zarla's shoulder and pulled her in for a semi hug.

Be safe. Was all she said. Zarla nodded her head, turned around, and sprinted into the forest.

Making sure she was quiet she ran until she found a good place to look around at her surroundings. A clearing in the trees ahead of her caught her eye. She slowed down and listened around her. Not any sounds of things out of the ordinary, she decided. She looked at the soon to be setting sun, Finding west would be simple enough. In the morning travel against the rising sun, in the afternoon go towards it.The only problem would be finding the actual den and convincing the dragons to help us again. Chyseious said she shouldn't have a problem, but she worried still at the uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach. Something terrible was going to happen.  She just didn't know what.

A branch snapped behind her, in one swift motion she pulled out her bow and arrow, dropped down to one knee and aimed at whoever or whatever was there.

"Don't shoot! Please?"

"God dammit Mertag, didn't I tell you to go home? Turn your ass around and go back to the village! You are going to slow me down and I have to find the den and get back before war is declared. You want to help? Go the hell home and do what you were assigned." She turned around and started to walk away.

"They didn't give me one." he whispered.

She stopped, not being given an assignment during such time of need meant you disgraced the village somehow. What she wanted to know is what he did.

"What did you do to be looked down upon when a war is about to start? And why do you think helping me will do anything for you? This is my assignment, not yours. He picked me because I am the fastest, I can get there and get it done faster than anyone. Right now you are delaying that."

"I fell in love with a girl, and her and I mated before we were wed."

Her mouth fell open, "You did what?"

"I am in no way ashamed of what her and I did."

"Who?"

"Jenavasia." he said dreamily as he remembered the wonderful night.

"Chryseious's daughter?! ARE YOU CRAZY!! No wonder he banished you!" she screamed at him. He flinched back, away from her anger and her voice. Her breathing picked up as her anger increased. It was immediately washed to normal when his face contorted to one of complete fear.