Omensent: Birth of a Dragon Lord
Page 23
Chapter 7
The next morning, as the companions were preparing to eat breakfast, six armed Deolan warriors entered the inn's common room, led by the Avonte clan chief, Bativa. He spotted the companions sitting at the same corner table as the previous night, and broke into a wide grin. “My friends!” He bellowed loudly. He dismissed his fellow tribesmen, then hurried to their side. “I’m glad I have found you!”
Damion rose to his feet and greeted their friend, then invited him to join them for breakfast. “When did you arrive in the city?”
“A few nights ago.” Bativa answered, still grinning broadly. “I rode ahead to meet with the Council about the dragon. It has destroyed two clans, leaving very few survivors, and slaughtered a vast number of our livestock. It has to be stopped.” His grin grew even broader. “I have told the others on the Council of your noble quest, and of your amazing prowess in battle. They wish to meet with you before you depart.”
Sly let out a low whistle. “That’s very rare! I've never heard of an outsider being invited to meet with the Council before.”
Damion glanced at the little man, who answered his unspoken question. “The Deolan Council is made up of all of the clan-chiefs of all of the tribes. They rule collectively over the Deolan people. Our friend here,” He motioned to Bativa. “is a clan-chief, so he also holds a seat on the Council. Foreigners are rarely invited to meet with them. It is considered a great honor among their people.”
“How did you know that we were here?” Dar asked curiously.
The Deolan warrior burst out laughing. “Word of your exploits reached the Council while we were in discussion.” He said, looking at Damion. “When I heard that a strange-looking warrior had beaten four Jaghern senseless, destroying the common room of an inn in the process, I knew it could only be you!” He chuckled again. “I settled all of the damages for you with the innkeeper, although he readily admitted that it was the Jaghern that instigated the whole incident.” He suddenly turned serious. “I’m here to ask if you will join me in meeting with the Council.”
Damion glanced at Sly, then nodded. “Of course. We would be honored to join you.”
Bativa broke into another grin. “Thank you, my friends. Some of my brothers doubt that a madman is somehow controlling the dragon, but I am that sure your testimony will convince them of the truth.”
“When do they wish to meet us?” Sly asked, stuffing several strips of bacon into his mouth.
“As soon as we can reach the council room.”