Dark Snow

7

Let's not waste any time, and jump right in!

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     Serpent led Blackice through the twisting tunnels of the main compound. "Because you aren't a soldier, you won't have to stay in the regular barracks," he informed her. "Instead, Jujube had some of the servants prepare quarters for you in the main building." The SandWing stopped in front of a door. "I'll have one of the warrior apprentices show you how to get to training until you learn the layout of the fortress. Talk to no one, unless they specifically ask you a question. One of the servants will bring you meals, at least until you earn the right to eat with the elites and Jujube himself." Serpent opened a pouch around his neck, digging around for a couple of moments. He extracted a silver key, and placed it in the lock, twisting it. The door swung open. "This is the room key," the elite explained. "Don't lose it." Blackice nodded, taking the key and tucking it into her pouch. Serpent nodded at her. "Training starts tomorrow morning. I have a course set up to test your skills. Don't be late," he told her. He then walked off down the hall, leaving Blackice by the door. She watched the tip of his tail slide around the corner, the barb rattling against the stone, before turning to her room. She ducked through the doorway, closing the door gently behind her. The room was simple, like her old mountain home. The floor was stone, like the rest of the fortress, but it was covered by a large woven carpet. The walls were lined with shelves, and there was an empty fire pit in one corner of the room. A few torches lined the wall, and directly across from the door was a large, square window. Another doorway stood off to one side, a light blue curtain hung across the entrance way. Blackice carefully pulled off her pouch and satchel, setting them on a shelf. She nosed her way through the curtain, into a small, simple room. Several windows were cut into the walls, making it bright and airy. A skylight shone down onto a ledge carved into the opposite wall. A small wooden chest lay open next to the door, filled with cushions and blankets. Another chest leaned against the wall, right next to the ledge. Blackice walked to the window, looking out at the view. She hadn't even noticed that she was on another level of the fortress. She could see hills in every direction, and in the far distance, the ocean. Blackice breathed deeply. Here, in the heart of the Tsuyoi's fortress, she was finally safe. She didn't need to worry about finding enough food, or about hiding from other dragons. She spread her pale wings, perching on the window sill. The navy dragon flung herself into the sky.

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Your welcome for the posts so close together. It was the least I can do to make it up for all the lost time. As soon as I finish chapter eight, I will post it. Thanks!