A Dragon's Awakening

by Aya Knight

“Arthur, one of the men who fought valiantly alongside of us, has provided three horses from his stable as a token of gratitude.” Thomas gestured toward the man standing off to the far side of the square. “I am far too fatigued to return us with magic. Even with the potion provided to me at the inn, I still have not fully recovered.” He rubbed the top of his right hand as he spoke.

  “I would like to thank Arthur for his kindness, however, I would also like to say goodbye to Mortimer as well. I noticed he has once again provided clean clothing and my body has been bathed. Have you seen him?” Kale glanced around curiously.

  “Morty is currently assisting the apothecary to aid the wounds of two men who were injured in battle. Although, I am certain he would enjoy seeing you awake and well, we must leave him to tend to such an important task.” Thomas nudged Kale’s back to urge him in the direction of Arthur. “Now, let us be on our way so the townsfolk can resume a normal life once again.

  Kale approached Arthur and thanked him for the horses and his support in battle. As Kale watched Neelan pat the mane of the black horse, his mind began to dwell upon the previous nights events. “I just don’t understand.” Kale exhaled, rubbing his forehead which throbbed terribly. “Where did the bodies of the knights go?” He gritted his teeth, “And where is his body?”

  “We moved ’em this mornin’ to the outside of town–Malakhar’s as well. I’m guessin’ they intend to burn the lot of ’em tonight.” Illadar read the expression upon Kale’s face. “Yes, kid, Malakhar is as dead as they come. You don’t have to worry about him anymore. I’ve gotta’ say though—you did one impressive job on him with that power of yours. Most of his head was charred beyond recognition.” He grinned, softly chuckling.

  “What about Saldin? You killed him, right?” Kale questioned.

  Illadar flashed a disheartened glance. “I’m afraid not, kid.”

  “What?! Why not? What happened?” Kale spoke quickly; shocked by the news.

  “Calm yourself, Kale. We have all been through a lot.” Thomas took hold of the conversation. “We tried to stop him, however, once he noticed his comrades were dwindling in number, he fled.”

  “The cowardly cur ran away,” Illadar jumped in. “The remainin’ knights followed in retreat.”

  Kale gripped his hair, yelling out in frustration.

  “It will be all right.” Neelan placed a hand upon Kale’s back. “We have made great progress, and Malakhar is gone. I am sure Saldin will run back to Jedah. We’ll end up taking them both down at once. We must now return to the Forest of Forgotten Whispers. I am sure that Elanya,” she sighed, rolling her eyes, “and Judith, will be anxiously awaiting our arrival.” A playful smile crossed her face as she attempted to lighten the mood. “Now let’s get going already! All this time, I thought I’d fallen for a dragon—little did I know he was truly a slow turtle in disguise!” She laughed at her own childish joke as she leapt atop a stack of hay. Neelan then slid her foot through a stirrup before slinging her leg over the brown saddle.

  “How are you able to move with such agility? I saw the blood coming from your side last night.” It was the first time Kale took notice of the new clothing she wore.

  “You can thank Thomas.” She winked toward the old sorcerer. “Although he had exerted himself in battle, he never left our side. He used the last of his stamina to heal the worst of my wound and safely remove the embedded bolt tip. He healed your injuries too.”

  Thomas’ face was overwhelmed with a cherry tint. “You should know I would never step aside while friends suffer. Besides,” he glanced toward Kale, “who would I have to amuse me with their human inadequacies?” He laughed, holding a hand up before Kale could speak. “Joking of course—well, somewhat anyway.” He smiled. “Which brings me to a more serious subject; you mustn’t over exert yourself. Your outer layers will still need time to heal. Mortimer has provided us with bandages and ointment to ease the pain.”

  Kale smiled at the thought of how unconditionally caring Mortimer was. He was disappointed he would not be able to give thanks in person, but knew they must make haste toward the forest before twilight arrived.

  Entering the forest at dusk would increase their chance of an attack by the red beasts and Rees’Lok. The group knew they would be at a severe disadvantage while recovering from their injuries. An encounter with the orc would surely bring death upon them.

  Kale clumsily mounted the horse, seating himself in front of Neelan as he took the reins within his grasp. He continued to mimic every movement Illadar and Thomas made, kicking his heels into the horse’s side. The horse huffed and shuffled his feet as though he could sense Kale was not truly human.

  “It’s all right, boy.” Neelan ran her fingers along the horse’s side as she soothed the creature.

  “Farewell, once again, Braxle.” Thomas glanced over his shoulder. “May we return in the future under more joyous circumstances.”

  They trotted through the exit as many of the townsfolk gathered to wave goodbye. Kale caught sight of Theresa blowing him a kiss which caused him to bashfully look away.

  Neelan growled as she kicked into the horse, causing the steed to trot faster. “We’re off! Hold on tightly,” she called out as she wrapped her arms firmly around Kale’s body, pressing close to his warmth.

  The four were relieved to see the enchanted stream which bordered the Forest of Forgotten Whispers. After a very weary-eyed horseback ride, they were ready to visit Judith, and then lay within the hanging hammocks for a needed rest. Now that they were familiar with their surroundings, the journey proved to be less time consuming. As they crossed the forest’s magical barrier, they were surprised to hear the sound of birds chirping within the gloomy trees.

  “Things seem different this time. I hope the noise doesn’t attract the red beasts or Rees’lok to our location,” Kale spoke, rubbing his eyes as his horse slowly trotted behind Illadar’s.

  “Yes…this is very odd indeed.” Thomas inspected their surroundings.

  Darkness swarmed the forest, and after maintaining a steady pace they could see the massive tree trunk come into view. They were equally grateful at how swiftly they made it to the center of the Forest of Forgotten Whispers. On their previous journey to the tree, it had taken nearly an entire day of searching.

  Golden specks drifted around, guiding their way with a lit path. As they approached the mass of vines, the plants squirmed and twisted, allowing them passage. They quickly dismounted and Kale gave a gentle pat on the horse’s crest.

  The animal returned the affection by nudging his nose against Kale’s arm.

  “It appears as though he has grown quite fond of you, Kale,” Thomas laughed.

  “Kale!” Judith hurried toward them. Her golden hair appeared silk-like under the glow of the trees mysterious floating specs. “Look at me! Just look!” The expression upon her face revealed pure bliss. “I can walk the soil of the earth as myself once again! How can I ever thank you? Elanya confessed everything once she was certain the curse had been lifted.” Judith held her arms out as she spun her body gracefully on one foot. “It feels so good to be outside once again. Not upon a tree limb, but truly outside in the world—it is amazing!” Judith fell into Kale’s arms, staring up toward him. “Please, come back with me tomorrow. My father will insist on meeting you.” Their blue eyes met as she flashed a beautiful smile. A hopeful expression remained upon her face as she continued to gaze at Kale.

  Kale could feel Neelan’s scornful eyes burning into the back of his skull with a jealous rage.

  “We had no intentions of you returning alone, so of course we will come.” Kale lifted Judith to her feet and took a step closer toward Neelan.

  “Shall we head inside?” Thomas could sense the usual tension rising when Neelan and Judith were near Kale.

  “That is a fine idea,” Kale quickly replied a
s he led the way.

  They were instantly greeted by an enthusiastic group of dryad women, each dressed in a flowing, white silk dress that trailed to the floor. Fruit had been set out on banquet-sized silver platters and colorful floral garland draped the room. Elanya soon entered in a pale blue gown which hung loosely off her shoulders. It shimmered in the candlelight with each stride she took. She was thrilled by their return and announced the night would be spent celebrating before sleep. They all began to enjoy the festive atmosphere, feasting and laughing together.

  Eventually, as the candles dimmed, the celebration came to an end and one by one the dryad women left for their own trees. Judith also fell victim to the temptation of sleep after she once again thanked the four for their courageous victory.

  “Dost thou have a plan for tomorrow? It shalt be a grand day of importance and thou must make haste to thy kingdom of Mirion.” Elanya tucked her long white hair behind a pointed ear.

  The mood within the room shifted as the conversation grew serious.

  “A plan?” Kale’s response came across as ignorant and a look of disappointment was immediately revealed upon Elanya’s face.

  “Thou cannot approach ye kingdom of Mirion as thou art now. All four of thee shalt be captured and killed by Jedah or his men whom devote loyalty to he.”

  “She’s right.” Illadar added. “We were all seen by Saldin, whom I’m sure will return before us and alert the general of what has happened; in his own words of course. Saldin will never admit defeat.” Illadar crossed his dark muscular arms as he leaned back. “The guards will be placed on watch for us to arrive. A clever plan is necessary to obtain entry into the kingdom.”

  After a heavy bout of silence where each pondered their options, Elanya stood.

  “Thy mind works mysteriously—one might say, quite ironically.” Elanya spoke softly, chuckling to herself. This was the first time they heard Elanya laugh which made the four slightly uneasy as to the reasoning behind it.

  Elanya left the room without a word, returning shortly after with a brown leather satchel. “In ye days to come, when thee reaches ye kingdom of Mirion, drink this.” She handed the sack to Thomas. “Thou shalt find enough for each to retrieve a sip. I must warn thee—ye effects shalt only remain for two hours.”

  “What exactly is it?” Kale grew concerned at the thought of ingesting an unknown substance.

  “A concoction which shalt transform thy body.”

  No way—not again. Kale shook his head at the thought of having to go through another bodily alteration, unless it was to return him to his dragon form.

  “Pardon my curiosity, however, I do believe I speak for all of us when I ask what exactly it is we will become?” Thomas wrinkled his forehead in concern.

  “Of course thou may.” Elanya smiled. “Thine drink was giveth to women I have known in ye past. Thee used ye mixture to enter areas unnoticed—as mice.”

  “We are going to become mice?” Neelan dove into the conversation, now appearing alert to what was happening around her. “Great.” She crossed her arms unhappily.

  “Thou must remember, the effects last but a mere two hours. Then thee will return to normal.”

  “Have you ever used the potion?” Kale was skeptical of the entire situation. He did not desire to spend the remainder of his life as a small vermin.

  “Boy, thou mustn’t forget that thine body is but a shell. I am a dryad.” Elanya responded.

  “I suppose that means no?” Kale wanted answers and grew frustrated by her odd manner of speaking.

  “Correct.” She nodded. “Thou must rest now. Judith shalt be anxious to depart shortly after waking.” Elanya glanced down at Kale. “Judith hath become like a daughter to me. I shalt dearly miss her. Please ensure she returns to her father safely. Thee must take heed while travelling to ye kingdom. Ye one called Jedah is foul, yet intelligent; thou will send his warriors to ensure Judith hath not left thine forest. Take caution and do not travel along ye main roads.”

  Kale opened his mouth to speak.

  “Thine shalt be fine, Kale Firehart.” Elanya spoke as though she had once again read Kale’s thoughts. “Ye knights are unaware Judith hath been rescued by thine kind. Should ye warriors attempt to enter thine home, they shalt perish.”

  A worried expression was painted upon Elanya’s face as she gazed out toward the open entrance.

  “I must also warn thee—since thou hath been away, the forest hath behaved abnormally. I believe ye issue revolves around Rees’lok. Neither he, nor his red beasts hast been seen hunting. Something is happening within thine forest, yet I hast not yet drawn a conclusion. Be wary upon your departure.”

  After Elanya left, they briefly engaged in a tactical conversation as they decided it would be most wise to ride upon horseback to one of the smaller farms outside of the kingdom. A small farm would have less likelihood of drawing suspicion. They also assumed that any farmers on the surrounding areas of the kingdom would be ignorant to the alert placed in effect for Kale and his companions. It was agreed upon they would pay the owner of the farm a satisfying sum of coins to keep their horses within his stable while they executed their mission into the kingdom as mice.

  It took a great deal of coaxing to convince Kale it was their safest option to put an end to Jedah. He finally gave into the plan—though obviously apprehensive about the transformation.

  Once they felt confident with their strategy, they each made way to the room full of hanging hammocks. All four easily drifted into a deep slumber. They soon would begin their journey to reshape the depravity of Ravondore.

  Chapter 26: Into the Kingdom

  Over the following days they cautiously travelled toward Mirion, stopping only to allow the horses to drink and to rest at night. It proved an enduring journey, but they were each determined to end Jedah’s reign of corruption and tyranny. The group eventually came upon a quaint farmhouse on the surrounding grounds outside the kingdom. They could see many delicious looking crops growing that made their stomachs rumble. As they drew closer, the sounds of pigs grunting and cows lowing could be heard.

  Thomas was the first to dismount; moving swiftly despite his age. He draped the horse’s reins over the stake of a fence which surrounded the field of vegetation. He made way toward the small, wooden farmhouse.

  “I shall remain behind. Anyone within this region would surely recognize me.” Judith pointed to a thick cluster of shrubs. “I will remain there until you’ve returned.” She pulled a hood over her head.

  Kale nodded, hastily walking to catch up to the old sorcerer.

  Thomas’ wrinkled fingers rapped gently upon the door and they could hear immediate movement. As the door cracked open, they could see the sliver of a middle-aged man’s face. He appeared intimidated and confused by the four strangers who stood at his doorstep. Thomas politely informed the farmer they meant no harm and explained they were in need of care for their horses. At first the man questioned their motives in concern, stating there was a perfectly fine stable within the kingdom.

  Thomas responded to the farmer’s suspicions by creating a fictitious story. He explained that during a previous visit to Mirion, his horse grew ill after staying within the kingdom stables. Therefore, he did not trust to leave them there again. He told the farmer they were travelers who were interested in browsing the marketplace for rare goods.

  The farmer wrinkled his face as he continued to inspect the four.

  “I am not so sure about this.” The farmer rubbed his stubbly chin. “My apologies, but I cannot help you.”

  As the farmer attempted to close his door, Thomas held a firm hand forward.

  “Perhaps this will persuade you.” Thomas reached into his pouch tied to his waist and withdrew a handful of coins.

  The farmer’s mouth dropped open as he swung the door wide open
. “I shall show you to the stable.” He swiped the mound of coins from Thomas’ palm.

  After securing the horses, they bid the farmer farewell and then met with Judith, concealed behind the shrubbery.

  “I was beginning to wonder if you would ever return.” Judith flashed Kale a playful smile which caused Neelan to grunt. “Is everyone ready?” The Princess withdrew the satchel from inside of her cloak.

  “I don’t think I will ever be ready for this. Let’s just get it over with. I can only hope that no one stomps on us along our journey. Mice…” Kale sighed. “From a dragon to a puny mouse.” He looked toward the kingdom of Mirion, easily identified behind a field of scattered trees.

  “I sure hope Elanya is certain of these effects.” Judith puckered her lips as she took a large gulp of the liquid concoction.

  No sooner had Judith swallowed, her body began to tremble as she buckled to the floor in a seizure-like state. As Kale and Illadar reached out to grab her, thousands of tiny coarse grey hairs began to sprout from her skin. Her limbs began to shrink and mutate; taking the form of a mouse, until she was no bigger than the size of Kale’s hand. Judith squirmed free from her clothing, which had fallen to a crumpled pile upon the ground. Her little pink nose twitched as she let out a squeak.

  “It worked!” Judith’s voice was shrill and almost unrecognizable.

  “What in Pan’s name are we supposed to do about clothing? In two hours we will be standing before the King unclothed.” Kale rubbed his forehead as he heavily exhaled. Though they had discussed their options before, the realization of the situation caught him off guard.

  “As I have mentioned before, I am hopeful Judith will assist us. I recall the castle having an abundance of wardrobes,” Thomas replied.

  “Yes, do not worry.” Judith twitched her long whiskers as she spoke. “When the time comes, I will take care of everything. But for now, please drink quickly! I have already consumed the potion and time is passing.”