1 - Daughter Of The Storm

04 - Tyrathralent

41st day of the sun season 2447

Soldiers threatened to cut Leith's exposed throat. A bulky man prevented the old woman from moving by holding her arms firmly. Despite the difficult situation, she did not struggle. A simple smile of satisfaction dominated her face.

"I am guessing you've given up?" questioned Bayrne authoritatively.

"What would Lord Hurath say?" Leith replied calmly. "You certainly don't possess his honor."

"He was far from perfect. He was a good ruler, but as a family man, he could've used some council. And I am not like him!" he ended on a snappy tone.

"Dragons are the most important beings in Aerinda. Slaying one for a reason determined by such a categorical judgment is a crime against the lands you walk on, that nourish you. And what about your own kingdom's motto? The eye of the storm will ruminate and be reborn. Think well of your actions and become better through wisdom."

He stepped towards her and placed the top of his sword on her neck's fragile skin. No emotions we're shown. So he was indeed not playing around.

"Insult me again and I will send you to the torture room to let you die rotting after days of agony. I know what the motto of my kingdom means."

"Much fear is rooted in your heart."

"You will be silent. I am done with your nonsense."

Azéna was aware of the firmness of her adoptive father, but she was disturbed by the cruelty of the moment. She fully understood where Leith was trying to get with Daigorn's motto. It was a reminder that in the center of a storm there is a calm and peaceful place, which Daigorn represents in times of conflict and war. It is a lesson that teaches its students to reflect on where they come from and to resurrect those values. It is not easy to stand upright in the face of danger and follow the path of peace, especially in a rigid world like Aerinda.

Bayrne's anger aged him, tightening his face and accentuating the subtle wrinkles, and also made him more threatening. Even so, Leith remained impassive. She waited indulgently and patiently for the Lord to make something of her. He lowered the blade with a sharp movement.

"This will be your last mistake. You will no longer bring shame to your superiors."

He glared at the soldier who was holding her. Without words, the latter nodded and drew his sword with one hand.

"I won't let you," Azéna promised.

Frustrated, she clenched her teeth. The dragon sniffed and growled softly.

"What's wrong with him?" asked its rider.

It shook its head and grunted a second time, this time more insistently. Azéna grew impatient and pointed towards Leith:

"Come on! Let's help her!" she shouted, hoping to be understood by her tone of voice.

The majestic creature roared fiercely and rushed towards Leith. The speed with which it dove surprised Azéna. She gritted her teeth as a cold and powerful wind exerted a strong pressure against her face. In addition to this discomfort, the claws of her mount threatened to tear her clothes. She kept her composure and looked straight ahead. The field was approaching insanely fast. This descent was an adventure in itself. Her blood rushed to her head and her heart pounded, filled with adrenaline.

Then, without warning, the dragon rotated one hundred and eighty degrees. Once its head was turned upside down, it opened its mouth, revealing a sea of gigantic fangs, and took a deep breath. The rebel girl felt a violent energy forming in its belly and then a brief, powerful tremor shook her. She pulled herself together and glanced forward.