Category: Of Dust And Dragons

Anders

Prior

He and Nika had declined to ride on Seshi’s back, and instead took horses. As a result Danna and the Dragon flew high above them and landed to make camp ahead of them.

“I’m glad you came,” Prior said. Nika looked at him. They’d ridden for a week. There was probably one more until they reached the border. They’d already entered the borderlands, Harran’s domain, Brea’s. He had no idea if Nika could feel her sister’s magic in the land and air. Tristan had mentioned once he could always feel Marina’s and he knew the sisters were similarly linked.

“It’s time,” she said with a shrug. “She’s going to be so angry.” Prior laughed.

“Harran and Anders will keep her in check,” he assured her. She nodded and tightened her veil. “And there’s the boy.” She exhaled.

“Rory,” she mumbled. “I am excited to see him.” She paused. “When he was born,” she looked down.

“Marina was there,” Prior said gently. Nika nodded. “She insisted.”

“Of course she did,” she exhaled and spurred her horse on. They reached the place where Danna and Seshi had landed and stopped. Danna was standing with a tall, light haired man, with tan skin, wrapped in a plain brown leather vest and a pair of soft brown pants, tucked into boots.

“Anders!” Prior called, dismounting and walking over. Nika followed him.

“You did it,” the other man shook his head. Prior grinned at him. “My Lady,” he bowed to Nika.

“Don’t do that,” she ran into his arms and he hugged her close.

“I was just talking with Mistress Finn,” The Prince of The Borderlands smiled, “And Lord Seshi.”

“He said you were friends?” Danna asked. Prior nodded.

“You are Appan’s rider,” Seshi said, “I have called for him.” Anders nodded, unsurprised.

“I will be happy to see him again,” Anders said. Prior frowned. He’d kept that to himself. “Don’t look at me like that, I half thought I dreamed it. It was right after Rian.” Anders had carried his younger brother’s body back from battle. It had made his once light and easy friend dark and serious, nearly impossible for a time. He healed a little every time Prior saw him.

“Of course,” Nika said softly. Unlike his other brother and Nika’s sister, Anders had never held Rian’s death against her. They quickly began setting camp while Seshi went to hunt. Danna was unpacking her bedroll and Prior walked over to kneel down and help her. She glanced over at Nika and Anders.

“Are they lovers?” She asked. Prior laughed.

“You like gossip,” he said. She shrugged. “No, he used to want them to be. He actually wanted to marry her.”

“Why wasn’t she interested?” She asked.

“Nika doesn’t like men, though I always got the feeling that if she were to make an exception, it would be for Anders,” he said. She nodded. “Did you know that my friend was a rider?”

“No,” she shook her head, “I knew that Appan had found his rider, but I didn’t know who it was. Dragons are very private,” he hand met hers as they smoothed the roll. She drew hers back. “Thank you, for helping me.”

“You’re being very brave,” he said softly. She met his eyes.

“I don’t know if brave is the word,” she said. “I should have killed him.”

“Maybe,” Prior said, “but it’s alright that you couldn’t.” Stop, Wyatt please, he heard Aunt Morgan pleading, he remembered his hand reaching for his sword, and then stopping. She looked at him. “He won’t have anywhere to go. The Guilds won’t take him back.” She frowned.

“You seem very sure,” she said, “in my world men like Cole tend to wiggle out of things.” Prior sighed. He didn’t know how to explain it, that for his grandchildren Carland Dumanis would move mountains, and that they would take Prior at his word about Cole.

“Danna,” he said softly, she looked away.

“Thank you for your help, Commander,” she said. He took the dismissal. She wasn’t ready, even if she ever was, it might not be with him. And he needed to get used to that idea.

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Rescue

Prior

He smiled as he sat tied to a chair in a shed and the bag came off of his head. He’d paid close attention to the ride, even though he couldn’t see. He’d be able to find his way back easily once he got away.

“Master DuPrentar,” Prior said pleasantly, Cole’s face was screwed up in anger. “How can I help you this evening? This seems a bit elaborate for a conversation.”

“Shut up,” Cole growled, and held a knife up. Prior sighed. Tedious, frankly. “Tell me Commander, what actually brought you out here?”

“Would you believe a witch heard on the wind that there was trouble?” He tried. A hit across the face. It hurt but it wasn’t exactly a problem. “Clearly not.”

“What have you told the chancellor?” Cole said, the knife digging deeper, cutting the skin. For the gods sake, Prior sighed. This was about the damn charter.

“I can assure you, I could not give less of a shit about Merchant politics,” Prior said. “Unless you’re actively plotting against the queen, cheat Dumanis all you like. He’ll figure it out on his own, likely, but it’s not my problem.” Cole’s eyes grew big.

“Then why go after Danna?” He asked. “You want what’s mine?” Prior sighed.

“You treat something precious poorly,” he shrugged, “it’ll leave you. I had nothing to do with that.” The man was enraged, he could handle that. “Interesting you chose ambush. You don’t think you can take me.”

“Oh, I can take you,” Cole said, “I don’t want the heat it would bring.” Prior nodded. He’d begun working the knot on his hands, and it was coming along. He sighed.

“I hate bragging, but no, you cannot,” Prior said simply. “I don’t know who you think I am, Master DuPrentar, but I can assure you, you are likely mistaken.” Cole sneered at him.

“You’re a pretty guard with a shiny sword,” he said. “I know exactly who you are.” Prior laughed and felt the knot break, perfect.

“I have been those things,” Prior smiled, “I’m also the Commander of Her Majesty’s Rangers, the chosen lover of The Sword of The Goddess, I held the gates while my Queen cut the gods free from their bindings.” He pulled the ropes off and swung a punch making Cole stagger back. “I’m the son of the man who stood his ground while being consumed by darkness to defend the good name of a woman who was kind to his wife.” He headbutted him. “And you have no idea what you’ve gotten yourself into.” There was a sudden roar and a shaking of the ground and the roof of the shack caved in.

“Prior,” Nika shouted, jumping off of the dragon, and tossing him a sword.

“I had it under control,” he said. She looked at him. “I did.”

“You’re an idiot,” she said. Danna was astride Seshi’s neck and was staring at Cole.

“I knew you were a lying little whore,” Cole sneared, the Dragon roared.

“I buried myself in you,” Danna said simply, looking almost like a queen, fully invested in dignity. “I would have loved you, even, if you’d have let me.” Prior’s heart lurched. Cole looked up at her. Seshi roared again. “Commander, Lady Nika, I suggest you get out of the way.” Prior and Nika turned and ran and looked back, seeing the flames shoot up, presumably coming back from the dragon.

“She didn’t hesitate,” Nika said. Prior smiled. “You’re bringing her to Dovetail?”

“That is the current plan,” he said softly. Nika nodded. “You’ll come?” Nika smiled.

“I haven’t checked on the temple there in a while,” she said. Prior rolled his eyes. She wanted to check on Marina, but before he could tease her, Seshi landed in front of them.

“Are you all right?” Danna asked dismounting, as if she’d been born on dragon back, not as though she’d never ridden before today.

Magic was funny that way.

“Yes,” Prior said, “thank you for the rescue.” She smiled. He bowed to Seshi. “And Thank You, my Lord.”

“It was my honor,” Seshi said softly and bowed back.

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Lord Seshi

Prior

He waited at the places Danna had specified. She’d left a note saying that he shouldn’t ride.

“Hello,” he jumped hearing Nika’s voice.

“Goddess, Nika,” he shuddered as she laughed. “What are you doing here?”

“The wind told me you were standing on a rock like a fool,” she grinned. He looked at her.

“The wind told you?” He asked. She nodded. “Nika, I don’t know how to tell you this, but you have become very strange.” She laughed. “I think I’m being taken to see the dragons.”

“Oh,” she said, “with your barmaid?” He glared at her. “Should I stay? Do you need a chaperone?”

“Nika,” he sighed and pressed his hands to his nose. “Did the wind tell you about Danna, too?”

“You aren’t Caro’s only correspondent,” she said. He nodded. “Do try not to get to broken hearted, this time,” she teased. He shook his head and she disappeared.

“Who were you talking to?” Danna climbed from the horizon. He exhaled.

“The wind, it turns out,” he said. She looked at him strangely. “Do you know any witches? They’re difficult.” Her face turned up into a smile.

“I’m sure they are,” she said. “Come on, it’s not too far.” They walked under the stars in silence, but it wasn’t awkward, he realized, it was the kind of comfortable lack of sound that meant there was nothing to be said that couldn’t be understood otherwise. They arrived at an older homestead and walked past a small stone cottage.

“Yours?” Prior asked.

“It used to be,” Danna said, a lifetime of memories poured into those four words. He understood that, thinking of the small clapboard house he’d lived in with his father before everything. The walked further back to a large wooden structure, a barn, and Danna threw open the doors. “Commander Prior Chastain,” she said, “may I present Seshi, Lord of Dragonkind, and my friend.”

Prior stood, stunned. Before him was a large dragon, a deep purple color, with amber horns and wide yellow eyes. Danna was petting it’s neck like it was a horse.

“Commander,” the dragon’s voice was a low rumble.

“My lord,” He bowed. “I bring the fondest greetings from my queen, Annalise Dovetail, Chosen of Cornan and Sword of The Goddess Rana.” The dragon bowed back.

“My wing and I owe your queen a debt of gratitude,” he said. Prior smiled gently.

“She would not consider it so, she would say that she did her duty,” he said. Lord Seshi nodded. “Though I am sure she would be honored to meet you.”

“As you say,” Lord Seshi nodded. “Danna Finn, I like this one. He is polite.” Danna smiled.

“He is that,” she said. “If you really think you can help me leave, I want to.” Prior’s heart skipped. She was asking him for help. He would happily give it.

“Of course,” he said. The dragon huffed. “I take it this is not the first time this conversation has happened.”

“I have spent the last two years asking for this,” Lord Seshi said.

“Yes, yes,” Danna sighed. “And I did know that Cole was a bastard, but I didn’t realize he was lying to me.” Prior nodded.

“We will burn his silly mine to ash and then fly off to glory,” Lord Seshi said. “I would rip is guts out with my claws but I know you do not wish this.” The dragon was going to get along very well with Athena, Prior considered.

“We can just go,” Danna said, “that is if you can,” she looked at Prior again, her wide brown eyes softer than he’d ever seen them. He exhaled, took her hand and kissed it.

“You’ve answered my questions,” he said softly. “Let me bring you home.” She smiled.

“Good,” she said softly. “I need to know Tanner and his family are safe, before we do.”

“Of course,” Prior nodded. Though he doubted the tavern keeper needed the help. He liked her loyalty. She smirked at him. “Anything else?”

“Will Jade mind terribly?” She pouted. He sighed.

“I did try to be discreet,” he said. She shrugged.

“It’s fine,” she said, “she didn’t gossip about it, but she was walking around looking quite smug for a day or two.” He laughed. “Seshi, will the others want to join us?”

“They will have no choice,” he said with a nod. Danna inhaled sharply and looked at him.

She’d been buried, for years, he could see, but there was a warrior in there, fighting to get out. The dragon clearly saw it too. He would gladly nourish her.

“Commander,” the dragon said, “I would speak to my rider privately.” Prior nodded. He kissed Danna’s hand.

“We’ll talk later,” he assured her. She smiled. He bowed to Lord Seshi again, got on the horse and rode back into town. He dismounted, ready to write a full report to send off in the morning. This was too much for the candle.

He opened the door and frowned, looking around. It was early for the full empty and quiet. He was so lost in a haze when he felt the two sets of arms grip him and the bag get thrown over his head, he flipped one of them to the ground with a thud but the other managed to tie his hands. He kicked.

“Now, Commander,” Cole’s cool voice cut through. “There’s no need for that. I think we just need to have a little chat.”

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The Wing

Danna

She walked over to the barn, once she was sure that Cole was not coming home that night. She didn’t care, she realized, it didn’t even hurt that he hadn’t told her. Maybe he’d taken off. That would solve her problems.

Seshi was sitting stretched out beneath the stars and four other dragons were with him. She exhaled. She hadn’t been counting on the whole wing, but here they were.

“Danna!” Jersa flew over to her and snuggled he nose against her outstretched palm. “I have been better behaved today, I did not make any glass.”

“I’m glad to hear that,” Danna smiled. A white dragon, who’s scales shimmered in the night sky followed after her. He looked nipped at Jersa affectionately.

“Little Sister, leave her be,” he said. “Lady Danna,” he bowed in the odd way dragons do, while Jersa made a huffing noise.

“Danna’s not a lady, Appan,” she squeaked, “she’s a rider.” Danna laughed.

“I’m neither actually,” I said. The two of them just stared at me, their golden eyes glowing.

“Children, leave them alone,” a third dragon, bronze, with hints of black in the flecks of her eyes. Bel, the lady of dragons, Seshi’s mate. “Rider.”

“Lady Bel,” Danna curtsied. Bel didn’t like her, or really any humans. Seshi landed next to her. “Do you two need privacy?” She teased and Seshi nipped her.

“Do we?” Seshi looked at her.

“I’m actually glad you’re all here,” I said. Appan plopped onto his bottom and Jersa snuggled closer to him. Seshi regarded her. “I would like to introduce you to someone.”

“Your ranger?” He teased. Danna glared at him. The other three dragons laughed.

“He isn’t mine,” she said. “But yes, I think you should meet him.”

“For what reason?” Bel tossed her head. “We have no need for alliance with The Dovetail Queen.” Danna exhaled.

“He also mentioned there’s a witch in the area,” she explained. “And he seems a good man.”

“The Daughters of Mariah fought with us in the past,” Appan pointed out. Seshi nodded at that.

“I would like to meet him,” Seshi said. Bel huffed. “Just me, though.” Danna nodded. “If only to see if he is worthy of my rider.” He nudged her. Danna sighed.

“I have a man, My Lord,” she reminded him. He growled.

“That one is barely worthy of being called a man, let alone being yours,” he said. “And you are attracted to the ranger, do not lie to me, Danna Finn.” She thought of Commander Chastain, with his dark hair and blue eyes and kind smiles.

Yes, she was attracted to him, for all the good it would do her.

Jersa had her head turned and she walked over on her four feet and nuzzled her.

“It would be good for us to ally with Danna’s mate,” Jersa said.

“He’s not my mate,” Danna grumbled.

“You are behaving as if he is,” Jersa frowned. “You are just like Appan when he met,” Appan bit down on her tale. “OW!” She exclaimed. Danna raised an eyebrow. She didn’t know Appan was mated, the dragons were secretive.

“When would you like me to meet him, Danna?” Seshi asked.

“Tomorrow, at moonrise,” Danna said. Seshi nodded. “Thank you.” Seshi nodded and yipped something and the others flew off.

“Are you prepared for what this means, my little one?” He asked. “If we choose to ally with her I cannot remain here.” Danna nodded.

“I know,” she said with a swallow. “I’m ready.” He nudged her affectionately. “I’m sorry for making you wait.”

“I knew you would choose soon,” he said. “Bring me your ranger, and I will reign the children in.” She laughed.

“Bel will fight you,” she said. He exhaled.

“Bel recalls our binding and fears any restraint,” he admitted, “I also do not want us to be chained again, but we cannot hide forever.” Danna nodded. “You trust him?” She inhaled.

“I do,” she said. “He’s a good man.” Seshi nodded and took off. Danna exhaled and mounted her horse again to ride back to the house. She walked quietly in and noticed Cole passed out in his office, an empty bottle next to him.

He’d decided to drink about it. Productive. She crawled into bed an tried to sleep.

Seshi

He landed on a rock and Bel glared at him.

“She is young,” he said to her. She sighed.

“Yes, she is,” Bel murmured. He pressed his nose against hers. “I know this queen is not the one who betrayed us, love, but she is of that line.”

“I will judge the ranger first,” he said. “Then we can consider his queen. She did free us.”

“Incidentally,” Bel huffed. Seshi laughed. “I do not like it.” He nudged her again. “I will follow you though, into any world.”

“I know this,” he said and they watched the moon.

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It’s Over

Danna

Once the Commander had left Danna spent the night on edge. Cole was’s temper was broiling, she’d even taken him to bed hoping to cool him off but it hadn’t worked. That usually worked.

“Can you tell me what’s wrong?” She finally managed. He looked at her.

“You’d said he was here about the dragons,” his eyes were stormy. She swallowed. “He’s not asked you about me?”

“No,” she said, a lie but a small enough one. “He asked for your surname, but I didn’t think that was a secret.” Cole frowned. “We know why at least, he knows other merchants. I don’t think,” Cole stood up from the bed and shook his head, pulling his pants on. “Cole.”

“He doesn’t know other merchants, you stupid bitch,” he said, she swallowed. “He’s Tristan Dugarry’s partner. He could send word to the Chancellor and that would be it, my life, this life, everything you want, gone, like that,” he snapped in her face and she flinched back.

“But you have a charter,” she whispered.

“I have a charter for basic trade and shipping from home,” he said. She stared at him. “The glass is obviously not covered by anything, no one knows it exists, but the mine is also unsanctioned.” She stared at him.

“What does that mean?” She asked. He frowned. “Cole, what does that mean?” He marched out and slammed the door. She swallowed and closed her eyes. It was over, she realized whatever this was, it was horribly over.

She also didn’t know how to leave.

The next day she stood behind the bar organizing when Commander Chastain walked in. He walked over and she looked at him. He hadn’t been at breakfast and she didn’t ask where he’d been. She could probably guess.

“I wanted to apologize,” he said, his low voice gentle. “Last night seemed, exceptionally tense.” She nodded.

“You have nothing to apologize for,” she said, “Cole was in a foul mood.” He nodded.

“As you say,” he said. “Did he hit you?” She stared at him. How did he know? She knew she didn’t hide it well from people who knew her, but he didn’t.

“No,” she shook her head.

“Has he?” He asked. She frowned. “I don’t want to pry, it’s your business, I just,” he exhaled. “He seems the type.”

“I’m alright,” she said gently. “He was very angry though.” She sighed. “He might try to kill you.” She meant the warning.

“He can try,” The Commander shrugged, “other men have.” She scrunched her face at him. “I’m serious, Mistress Finn, if you need anything.” She swallowed.

“What would you know about it?” She asked. He exhaled.

“The guard got me safe,” he explained. “My uncle, who raised me, had a tendency to forcefully correct things he felt were out of order.” She swallowed. “I was frequently out of order, as was his wife and his son.” She nodded. “If you need help, please don’t hesitate to ask, I mean it.”

“Thank you,” she said softly. “Commander,” she said, “what’s the queen’s interest in the dragons?” He smiled.

“I got the feeling you knew more than you said,” he exhaled. “She wants some understanding of all the old magic, we have connections to a lot of them. Katrin Lestoff, the king consort’s sister is a serpent rider, and the Rastani royal family’s connection to the wolves is already being studied, as well as her own and the Duchess’s increased powers.” Danna exhaled. “But we know almost nothing of the dragons, beyond old stories. Her interest in the dragons specifically is just to humor me, if I’m being honest.” She smiled and nodded at that.

“Can you meet me outside of town tomorrow?” She said. “The western side? Just after moonrise.” He smiled.

“Of course,” he said. “I’m looking forward to it.”

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Release

Prior

He wasn’t sure how much he should big foot Cole. He hadn’t played courtier in a long time and he’d always hated doing it for scum. The alarmed look on Danna’s face, the way she was silently reassuring Cole was too familiar. It was a dance that he’d watched his Aunt Morgan dance nearly every night of his life.

“How in Amina’s name did you wind up here?” Danna asked. Prior smirked at her. “You served The Queen, you’re friendly with The Chancellor of The Guild’s Family,” he leaned back and shrugged.

“I wanted to find dragons,” he said, her eyes narrowed.

“Interesting,” Cole said. “For the queen?” Prior shrugged casually. I suppose you were always going to find something more interesting than me. Annalise didn’t care so much about the dragons. She was curious, of course, but she had other concerns. “And you’re sure they exist?”

“Yes,” he said. “I saw them. At The Temple of Amina.” Danna covered her mouth.

“You move in heady circles,” Cole’s voice was sharp. Prior smiled and nodded. “You and Danna met at the tavern,” she looked alarmed, “Tell me, Commander, is it the same at home?”

“Is what the same?” Prior asked, sure his voice had lost the casual edge he’d managed.

“Girls who don’t need it, working,” Cole lounged back, “I’ve offered to take care of her, and she won’t accept. “But of course with Countesses running the army and Duchesses chasing after urchins with colds as an example, it might just be the breed.” Prior’s face fell.

“General Pantona has my complete confidence,” he growled, “And Duchess Marina’s work for the sick is a great pride.”

“Cole,” Danna said and stood up, “honestly, I doubt insulting his friends is the best way to endear us to our guest.” She winked at Prior and went to the kitchen and brought out some roasted meat. “I hope you like rabbit.”

“Of course,” he said. “My apologies.”

“Cammadie women are proud of their work,” Prior said, “It’s Anessa’s legacy to her daughters. I know merchants prefer their women pretty and pregnant but even the merchant wives I know could command an empire without much though.” He smiled, thinking of Carolina and her sister Emily. They ate the rest of the meal in tense silence, Danna watching him carefully and Cole clearly fuming.

He excused himself when they finished, and found his horse and rode back into the town. It had hurt, that cold angry silence. He would check on Danna tomorrow, but right now all he could hear was his uncle shouting, his aunt begging, and the sound of the leather against Evan’s back. Or feel the sting against his own.

And he couldn’t deny anymore that he wanted Danna. He hadn’t wanted anyone that fiercely in a long time, he shook his head. It didn’t matter, Danna barely looked at him, also a familiar feeling.

There’d been a time when Prior had been steadfast in his affections. There was only Annalise, and while he often had the option to stray, he’d had no interest. Then he’d tried. For months, even after they’d parted, there was only her. He remembered being inside of Princess Rila of Rastan, hearing her voice begging him, “more, harder, please,” and his mind still full of his queen, wishing that it was her instead. It happened a few more times, but that had faded. Now he was able to enjoy sex again.

And he’d been told several times since arriving where he could find it. He walked right into Jade’s. The settlement whorehouses were different than the taverns and brothels back home. The tavern girls and workers there came and went as they liked, here they worked for the house. He didn’t like it as much, but it would do.

“Was wondering when we’d see you,” Jade herself walked over, he’d chatted with her a bit a few days ago. “Your men are normally faster.” He laughed at that.

“I like to settle in,” he shrugged. She nodded with a smile. She was Rastani, he realized, from the east, likely, dark brown skin, and almond shaped eyes and long dark hair. “Do you only operate?” He asked. She smiled gently.

“I entertain too,” she said. He smirked. “Follow me, Commander.” He followed her upstairs into a boudoir.

After she lounged back with a sigh, and Prior rolled off of her and exhaled.

“Thank you,” he smiled and she laughed.

“You’re most welcome,” she rolled to her side an started gently stroking his chest, “I have to admit most rangers aren’t quite so thorough.” He grinned.

“I can see that it becomes a part of their training,” he teased. She laughed. “Knowing Annalise she’d find it amusing.”

“I saw her once,” Jade yawned. “I remember being surprised by how small she was. Do you know her well?”

“Reasonably,” he said. He didn’t want to explain how what he’d done with his tongue that had made Jade squeal in delight had been perfected one very long winter night when he and Annalise had grown bored of watching Crown Prince Otto of Failon and Marina politely ignore each other over dinner. In fact several of his more satisfying techniques were the result of uninteresting suitors for the duchess.

Not many people would like hearing that their queen’s general first preference for dealing with a strong emotion was sex. Annalise was happy? Sex to celebrate. Annalise was frustrated? Sex to forget about it. Annalise was angry? Sex to release the passion. Annalise was sad? Sex to cheer herself up. He’d been happy to play along, denying himself the ecstasy of his queen’s bed would have been insanity. Jade eyed him.

“I’ve lost you,” she said. He smiled.

“I’m here,” he said and brushed her hair off her face. “I thanked you?”

“You did,” she said.

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Dangerous

Danna

She walked into the house. It had been a strange week. Commander Chastain had settled into a rhythm. He woke in the morning, greeted her and Tanner, did whatever it was rangers did and returned in the evenings. He was friendly and pleasant and kept his distance.

But she noticed him watching her, even when he thought she wasn’t paying attention. She hadn’t been to see Seshi again, worried that the Commander might follow her.

And there was of course the voice in the back of her mind that didn’t mind the way he looked at her, with something between desire and fascination. She walked towards the kitchen to start on dinner when Cole walked in and shouted for her. She walked out to the hall and froze, seeing him standing with Commander Prior Chastain.

“Hello Mistress Finn,” The Commander walked over and took her hand and kissed it.

“Commander,” she said with a swallow. Cole narrowed his eyes. “I’m surprised to see you.”

“Well, I saw you weren’t present so thought I’d take Master DuParner up on his invitation,” he nodded to Cole. “I remembered your warning about Tanner’s cooking.” She smiled inspite of myself.

“Please,” Cole smiled. “Call me Cole.” Commander Chastain smiled warmly back, but, she noted didn’t ask Cole to call him Prior. “Danna, had you started on dinner.”

“Not yet,” she said. “Was just about to.” Cole kissed her possessively and swatted her behind as she hurried back to the kitchen.

“She’s something isn’t she?” Danna overhead Cole say.

“You’re a lucky man,” she heard the Commander say. She sighed and began boiling some of the stock she’d made with a rabbit carcass, thickening it with flour to make a gravy, as a second rabbit roasted on the stove. She looked out the window and jumped seeing a smaller golden dragon waiting and staring at her. “Jersa, you can’t be here.”

“Lord Seshi said you might be in trouble,” she whispered, but a dragon’s whisper was still quite loud. “I wanted to apologize if it was my fault.” Danna smiled at her.

“I’m not in trouble, Jersa, but you will be if you don’t go,” Danna said. She tossed her head and took off. Dragons were impossible creatures. Jersa was young, according to Seshi she had been just a baby when Amina had trapped them.

“Danna,” Cole called out. She exhaled and walked out to the parlor. Commander Chastain’s smile looked like cracked plaster, until his eyes met hers and they lit up again. What did he see, she wondered, that changed everything about his face when he looked at her? “How long will dinner take?”

“An hour or so,” she said, “I was planning to have it when you got home, but you were early.” She sat on Cole’s knee and he kissed her neck gently. “What were you two talking about?”

“Dorin,” Commander Chastain said. “When were you last there?” Cole laughed.

“Five years,” he shrugged. “I ought to go back soon.” Danna felt her body tense. “I’ve built something here though.” He ran a finger against her jawline. Suddenly Danna realized what was happening. Cole was marking his territory. The Commander smiled. “Do you know my city well?”

“Well enough,” Commander Chastain said casually and sipped on his drink. “I was last there for the naming of Alexander DuCray’s youngest child.” Cole froze. “So, a year ago? Quite the feast. Not quite as extravagent as Alex and Emily’s wedding, but the queen didn’t come so I imagine that was the reason.” Cole’s face was stone cold.

“You’re acquainted with the Chancellor’s family, then?” Cole said. The Commander shrugged.

“Tristan Dugarry was my partner for many years, before he returned to leading the guard.” He said casually. Danna stared at him. Even she’d heard of the Dugarry twins. Chastain wasn’t someone the guard had thrown away. He was important, or at least, moved in important circles.

“I see,” Cole’s voice had gone cold. Not good. Very bad. “So you know the Chancellor well enough to know he likes his secrets.”

“I know The Old Man well enough to know if I ask for a charter in Annalise’s name, and it wasn’t provided, someone daring to use him for cover without leave would find himself in a storm very quickly,” Chastain’s eyes were sharp. “But that isn’t the case here, I’m sure. Lady Dugarry said that she knows your sister.” Cole nodded.

“Yes, my sister was friendly with the DuKarras girls when I left,” he said. “I’m not sure where the paperwork for the charter is, if I’m honest, been a while since I had to pull it out. But I’ll get it to you.”

“Much appreciated,” Chastain drained his drink.

“I should check on the meal,” Danna stood up and went to the kitchen. So he wasn’t here about the dragons. He’d smelled that Cole’s operation wasn’t on the level.

Danna wasn’t sure which was more dangerous.

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The Priestess

Prior

He’d been settled in for about a week. This village wasn’t much but Tanner kept the tavern relatively quiet and clean. He got a bath every other day, never a guarantee in the desert.

He’d ridden out to a rock formation today, there was no further evidence of dragons, but there were rumors of clouds forming that never became a storm and he knew what that meant too. He stop to take a break and got off his horse and closed his eyes and took a deep breath.

“Hello Prior,” the voice that greeted him, made him laugh. He opened his eyes and standing in front of him was a Wyan Tribeswoman, cloaked in a black robe and her head wrapped in a veil. She had a long nose, and sharp face, brown skin and nearly amber eyes. She was leaning against a staff.

“Hello Nika,” he said back. She grinned and jumped into his arms. “It’s good to see you.” So she was actually here, not just projecting herself, among the Priestess of Amina’s many talents.

“It’s good to see you too,” she said. “Though a surprise.” He shrugged his shoulders. “Did my brother in law send you out into the wilderness to investigate something?”

“Livestock and shepherds have been disappearing,” he said. She nodded. “And apparently there’s been a rumor of dragons.”

“Perhaps the dragons have been eating them, and it’s nothing to do with the settlers,” Nika said. “Harran has grown paranoid.” Prior sighed and shook his head. Either was possible. But Harran wasn’t paranoid, that wasn’t his nature.

“He worries about the boy,” he said. “Something about his aunt not yet meeting him to bless him.” Nika frowned. “Why haven’t you been to the keep?”

“Why aren’t you in Dovetail?” She answered back. He looked away. “Mm, hypocrite.” He laughed. “My sister doesn’t want to see me, she made that clear while she was pregnant.” He nodded. “Why aren’t you in Dovetail?”

“I have work to do out here,” he shrugged. She cocked an eyebrow. “Nika,” he exhaled.

“Prior,” she echoed back to him. They looked at each other and she smiled sadly. “How is she?”

“I haven’t seen her in a while,” he said gently. “They’ve been spending a lot of time in Pharras.” Nika nodded.

“Revolution?” She raised an eyebrow.

“Not just yet, as far as I know,” he sighed, “but shoring up their allies for it.” She snorted. “You don’t approve.”

“She’s sacrificing her destiny to his,” she shook her head. Prior smirked. “What?”

“Nothing, I just didn’t realize your still cared,” he said. She scowled at him. “I’m not avoiding Dovetail because I don’t want to see Annalise.”

“No?” She crossed her arms. He shook his head. “So who are you avoiding? Your uncle? Tristan?” He frowned at her. “Oooh, it’s not Annalise, of course.”

“He doesn’t like me being there,” he said, “and it makes things difficult for her. So, I stay away.” She nodded and they both sat down. “There’s this woman in town, she’s involved with a local merchant.” Nika looked at him. “I don’t trust him, and she’s,” he exhaled, “she knows more than she’s telling me.”

“Prior,” Nika said, her voice full of warning, “if he is on the level.” Prior groaned and stretched. “Do you want to burn that particular bridge.”

“I’m not lighting any matches,” Prior grinned. “What’s the worst case scenario? I piss off an apprentice in the middle of nowhere and I have to spend a night smiling and eating shit with Carland Dumanis to smooth things over? I have a feeling I can handle it.” Nika frowned. “Are you going to stay?”

“I’ll go where the Goddess leads me,” she said enigmatically.

“Uh huh,” he nodded. “And The Goddess led you here?” She grinned. “Right, so mysterious,” she giggled. “Well, do try to tell me before you leave, Nika.”

“I will,” she smiled. “I am glad to see you.” He nodded. “Two years is a long time to chase something Prior.”

“I’m meant for this,” he said. “I know it.” She smiled. “Like you knew.” She sighed and stretched. “How is Her Eternal Evilness?”

“Amina is not evil,” she said.

“Debatable,” he said, she whacked him in the shoulder. “You need to forgive yourself Nika.” She exhaled. “Marina’s forgiven you and Brea will get there.” She looked down.

“Rian can’t forgive me,” she whispered. He exhaled. “And Brea will never forgive me for that.” He hugged her and then got back on the horse and rode into town.

He glanced at the tavern and then at another building across the way. A pretty young woman sat out on it’s porch. A man approached her, slid her hair behind her ear, offered her a small bag and she smiled, took his hand and led him inside. He tied his horse off and walked into the tavern. Tanner was behind the bar.

“Hey Commander,” Tanner said with a smile. He liked the man. He poured a beer from a dark brown bottle and Prior took it. “Rough day.”

“Interesting,” Prior shrugged. “Across the way, it’s a pleasure house?” Tanner laughed and nodded.

“Jade’s,” he said. “She’s good at her job, her girls are well taken care of, and know how to take care too, if that’s what you’re looking for.” Prior nodded.

“You don’t consider it competition?” He teased. Tanner snorted.

“Nah,” he said. “If I even considered keeping girls, both my mother and Danna would stop speaking to me.” Prior laughed. He would have to visit, not necessarily for sex, though if he saw someone he liked it wasn’t out of the question, but to see if Jade displayed yellow roses, the sign that some of Carolina’s “friends” were in residence and if he had to collect a report.

The past few years, sex had been strange for him. After Annalise, when he’d sleep with someone else it had felt empty, he’d long for her, and it wasn’t fair to the women he’d been with. That had faded in time, but he hadn’t been in love again. Sometimes he wondered if he ever would be.

The door opened and Cole walked in, flanked by three other men, who, over his time in town Prior had noticed were his flunkies. Tanner’s back straightened, and Prior put on his amiable courtier face.

“Tanner,” Cole said, Tanner nodded tersely. “Commander Chastain, nice to see you.” Prior nodded at him. “I came for Danna.”

“She left early,” Tanner said simply. “Probably went home.” Prior was still holding Cole’s eyes. He didn’t like or trust this man. He was trying to take Nika’s advice.

“I realize I’ve been remiss in my hospitality,” Cole said, Prior smirked. “Why don’t you come home with me, Commander, I can welcome you properly.”

“Happy to,” Prior said. “I’ll see you later, Tanner.” The Wyan man nodded and Prior followed Cole out. “I appreciate the invitation.”

“I was a little worked up when you first arrived,” Cole sighed. “But it would be an insult to my clan and our queen to not extend you what I can.” Prior nodded and they both rode off, towards a large white stone house on the edge of town.

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Lying

Danna

She’d slept a short enough time that she’d made it back to the house before Cole awoke. She made him his breakfast and kissed him before he rode off and she sat down.

She wasn’t his wife. She’d never be. He’d probably import some little girl from Dorin eventually, he was a merchant and that was their way. Whether he’d keep her or not was something she tried not to think much about. For now, Cole meant security, no matter how many little pieces of herself she had to trade.

She rode into town and got to the tavern, Tanner wasn’t behind the bar, or in the main room, so she wandered bak to the kitchen where he was fighting with a pot of porridge.

“Let me,” she said softly. He sighed and looked at her and nodded. “About last night,” she started.

“Don’t worry about it. I wasn’t interested in watching Cole get into it with a Ranger anyway,” Tanner said. Danna nodded. “He took a room.”

“Because you love complicating my life?” Danna groaned. Tanner grinned. He was her oldest friend, the closest thing to family she had left, and the only person who could consistently get under her skin.

“He’s good looking,” Tanner said.

“I didn’t notice,” she muttered.

“Bullshit, you didn’t notice,” he snorted. “You were damn near twinkling at the man.” She frowned at him. “Cole took it OK?” She shrugged. “Danna,” he said softly. She thought of the black eyes, the time that Tanner had ridden to the house and told Cole if he laid on a hand on her again he’d kill him. Cole was careful with her face after that.

“Tanner,” she said back.

“You’re alright?” He asked. She nodded. “Good, you can talk to the Commander when he comes down then.” She groaned.

“Tanner, this isn’t a fairy tale,” she reminded him, “the handsome aristocrat from Cammadan isn’t going to sweep in and save me. I’m doing fine on my own.”

“First of all, no you aren’t, you’re selling yourself to a man who hurts you for far less than you deserve,” he said. She bit her lower lip, “And, second, I don’t think he’s like that.”

“Who’s like what?” They both jumped at the deep voice from the doorway. The Commander had finally made his appearence.

And, alright, maybe she could admit that he was attractive. Certainly the bath he’d clearly had and sleep in a bed had done their work. He was tall and broad shouldered, with dark hair that grew just past his ears, and fell in a pair of stunning blue eyes. He was smiling and it was an inviting and genial look.

“Oh, I was saying you won’t want to eat Tanner’s cooking,” Danna said pleasantly and Tanner pinched her. The Commander laughed. “But if you’re hungry now it’s all we have.”

“I can wait,” he said. She nodded. “I’m glad to see you again, Mistress Finn. I hope you had pleasant evening.” She blinked.

“Pleasant enough,” she said and squared her shoulders. He nodded. “I’m sorry I had to run out.” He was looking at her in a way she couldn’t quite define, some combination of curiosity and lust.

“I don’t mean to be too nosy,” he said. “But your,” he paused, “friend. What’s his surname?” She blinked. He meant Cole.

“DuPrentar,” she said. He nodded. “Is there a reason why you need to know?” She crossed her arms.

“I’ve spent some time in Dorin,” he shrugged. “I thought I might have crossed path with some of his family.” She opened her mouth to say something but them thought better. “We’ll speak soon.” He disappeared again. Tanner was grinning.

“Not a word,” she said. He held up his hands. “He wanted to hear about dragons, why is he asking about Cole?”

“Yes, there’s absolutely no reason why anyone from your girl queen’s army would be interested in Cole,” Tanner said, his voice laced in sarcasm. “A loud wealthy merchant apprentice who’s decided to make himself the big man of this glorious village we call home isn’t suspicious at all.” Danna sighed and pulled out some dough and began kneading it.

“If he asks too many questions,” Danna frowned. “It could end badly.” Tanner looked at her.

“Danna,” he said softly. “Do you love him?” She blinked at her friend. He’d never asked her that before. He’d lectured and cajoled her, comforted her, eventually accepting that she’d made her decision, even if he didn’t like it.

“Yes,” she said. Tanner nodded. “And he loves me too, in his way. He does take care of me Tanner.” She could keep telling herself that. But Seshi’s words from the night before echoed in her mind. How much of herself was she giving away for this?

Prior

He sat in the small room staring the candle flame, he’d chanted the small spell required and sent the note off.

Ran into an apprentice, a miner. Claims to be DuManis clan. Cole DuPrentar. Invited me for dinner, he’s out west of the temple gap.

He set it into the flame and waited for an answer. Carolina’s candles didn’t work instantly, but they were quick enough. And he’d known he’d need to know how careful he had to be around the man.

A paper fluttered into the flame, Carolina’s perfect script present on it. He smiled softly, he could almost hear her controlled careful, low voice as he read the message.

I know the name. I debuted with his sister. Ask for his charter, there is some mining out that way. I’ll ask Trey for more information.

And then another flutter.

Chase says he misses you. Tristan and I do too. He laughed and leaned back. He did miss them, but they were busy and if he were in Dovetail, he wouldn’t be. There was nothing for him to do there. And there was the small needle stabs of watching Annalise and Eric.

He didn’t love her anymore, but it didn’t make watching her happiness easy. Busy was easy, and there was no business for him in Dovetail.

He rubbed his face. But it had been two years with very little to show for it. He’d found The Wheel of The Gods, and he had barely found evidence of the dragons. It was disheartening. Meanwhile, Tristan’s son, who he’d sworn to help train and guide, was growing up without him.

But he’d watched them fly off into the desert and his heart had sung. He was meant to do this. He couldn’t stop until it was done. He walked back down into the bar and saw Danna Finn balancing on a box to reach a shelf.

“Is there breakfast now?” He said. She looked at him.

“There’ll be bread in a few minutes,” she nodded. He smiled and walked over and settled in.

“Your father told you about dragons,” he said. She met his eyes, they were an almost golden shade of brown, and her fiery red hair framed her round face.

“My father told me many things,” she said. “He told me my family rode dragons for Queen Anessa. He said that if we tried to go back to Cammadan, Brayton would kill us and drink our blood. He said that when Queen Annalise rose we’d go back.” Prior looked at her.

“Seven years is a long time to delay,” he said. She shrugged. “Also as far as I know Brayton never drank blood. I could ask Duchess Marina, seems like something she’d know.” Danna blinked at him. “Why didn’t you come back?”

“He died eight years ago,” she said softly. Prior inhaled.

“I see,” he nodded. “I won’t bother you about it again.” She nodded. “There were riders with Queen Anessa.”

“It was an age ago,” she said. “How could you know?” Her voice was playful now, challenging him. He could answer a challenge. Gods, she was stunning.

“I’ve read her brother’s journals,” he said. She cocked an eyebrow.

“In Dovetail?” She asked. “I thought Brayton purged the libraries of that sort of thing.”

“Not in Dovetail,” he said. He remembered the night he and his friend Nika Averran had found the library in Amina’s Temple, the moonlight streaming over the texts. The stories he’d never known, none of them had. The secrets of his kingdom, and home, the gifts the gods gave to their chosen, that put him in even more awe of his queen, her general and the Duchess who sat her right hand. The ones that had given him hope that things taken from him might be restored.

“Even so,” she said, “that doesn’t mean my family were riders.” He looked into her eyes. She was lying. He didn’t know if she was lying to him or herself.

“I think a lot more families had secrets around magic than we ever knew,” he said softly. “Thank you, for talking to me.” She nodded.

“Of course,” she said. “Anything for our queen.” Prior smiled. Words he’d said himself so many times, vows he’d taken, whispered in the dark while Annalise whimpered and moaned in his arms. Anything for you. Until she stopped taking and he wasn’t sure if he had anything left to give.

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The Rider

Danna

Cole rolled off of her and she exhaled running a hand through her hair. He hadn’t wanted to talk tonight, which was both a blessing and surprised her, since he’d nearly gotten into a pissing match with that ranger. If she couldn’t see that he was marking his territory with the stranger she would have argued with him to stay at Tanner’s.

But she didn’t want a fight.

“Swear to Cornan, that gets better every time,” Cole exhaled. She laughed and rolled over and rested her chin on his chest. “The boys wanted to go to Jade’s to celebrate tonight. I told them they could but I had better waiting at home.”

“What’re you celebrating?” She asked. He played with her hair.

“Found a cache of the glass,” he shrugged. She nodded. “Bad timing for a ranger to come through, but it is what it is.” She exhaled. The brightly colored and easily workable glass made from dragon fire was a closely guarded secret at the moment, and Cole was trying to be the merchant to bring it out. “You haven’t seen that beast around have you?”

“No,” she shook her head. “Not in years, you know that.” She’d have to talk to Seshi again. To try to convince him to leave. Maybe the presence of the Ranger would do it. Seshi was distrustful of anyone linked too closely to Queen Annalise, and Bel, his mate, humans in general. Cole nodded and kissed her temple. “The ranger was asking about them too. Maybe you should lay low for a bit.”

“He’ll move along, they always do,” he chuckled and stretched. “Why was he asking you?” Danna felt her heart speed up a little.

“Tanner mentioned my da’s stories,” she yawned, but her heart fluttered. The ranger, Commander Chastain, she reminded herself, had looked at her with the kind of interest she’d always gotten, which was flattering, but once he found out that she knew something about the dragons, his whole face and demeanor had changed. He’d wanted to hear what she had to say. That she wasn’t used to.

“Well, if he bothers you, let me know,” Cole pulled her close. “I don’t need some green coated city boy thinking he can take what’s mine.” She whimpered as she felt him get hard again.

“Cole, wait,” she muttered as he pushed his leg between her thighs to part them. He shushed her and pushed in and she whimpered.

“That’s a good girl,” he mumbled into her hair, “you can take it, honey, come on.” After two years, she should have been used to this, and she mostly was. He liked to hurt her, and it came without warning or even threat. So she waited for him to finish, feeling where the bruises would be in the morning and then waited for him to fall asleep before slipping out of bed, pulling her dress on and grabbing a shawl and riding out past the high dunes to her family’s old barn and stepping inside.

Settled in the hay was Seshi, Lord of Dragons, only slightly smaller than the barn itself, deep violet in color, with amber horns and yellow fiery eyes, that had just opened to look at her. He squeezed himself in here with some magic and was refusing to leave until Danna left with him.

“It is late Danna Finn,” he rumbled. She exhaled. “Did he harm you again? I will eat his heart.”

“No,” she said and shook her head. Seshi huffed, he knew she was lying. “He did find more glass, though, and there’s a new ranger here, looking for you or at least your kind.”

“Ah,” he said, “you have come to try to convince me to leave again. I see.” She nodded. “Danna, you are my rider, descended from the oldest of rider lines. I will not choose another or leave you behind.” She sat down and leaned against his leg. “Jersa is young, and she was probably playing, that’s what made the glass. I will speak to her again.”

“Alright,” Danna said. “What about the ranger? He said he’d seen dragons before.” Seshi let out a soft and thoughtful rumble.

“Perhaps he was there when Appan went to the capital,” he said, “or when The Dovetail Queen freed us.” She exhaled. “Why do you stay here, Danna Finn? Is it only because of your father’s grave? If we went to Cammadan we would be among your ancestors, surely he would want that.”

“Cammadan isn’t my home, Lord Seshi,” she said, “I was born here, lived here always, I don’t want to leave it.” He hummed again.

“This is the same defense you give that man of yours,” Seshi said. “One can be settled into a place that is harmful for them.”

“The longer you stay in the area the more dangerous it is,” she said softly. The dragon chuckled.

“And you claim to not be my rider,” he answered her. “Your concern betrays your heart, Danna.” She laughed, and he circled his wing around her, drawing her closer. “He did hurt you tonight.”

“Not badly,” she whispered, feeling the steady beat of the dragon’s heart, and the heat of his fire in his belly.

“Perhaps not your body,” Seshi said. “But I worry he will continue to rip at your heart and soul until it is gone.” She inhaled deeply and fell asleep. She dreamed of her father, asking why she wouldn’t look him in the eye.

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