“Camille! I can’t hold on!” She seemed truly panicked now. “Please get lower.” Simon watched as the small woman with an expanse of hair fell from the dragon and landed in the lake. “Damn, is it my lot in life to follow after women? This one probably left no note either.” Simon dove back into the water, drenching his clothes again, and swam to the spot she had landed. He had to dive fairly deep but saw her drifting down. He grabbed her and swiftly swam upwards, gasping for breath when he broke the surface. The woman was unconscious and did not appear to be breathing. He reached the shore as quickly as possible and laid her gently on her side. He listened for a heartbeat and was relieved to find one. He then pressed on her stomach to try to release the water she’d swallowed. It flowed out of her mouth, and she did cough, but there were no other signs that she was breathing. If he had the time to notice, he would have gazed upon the sweetest lips he had ever seen, instead, he urgently grabbed them and blew air into her mouth; and was rewarded with a slap across his face. “How dare you! I am not some barmaid that you can just kiss at anytime.” To think that he had fished this tempest out of the water. “Well, that’s a wonderful way to say thank you, I suppose I’ll just put you back where I got you from then.” Simon stooped down, scooped up the little wisp of a girl and plopped her back into the lake. “I bid you farewell now.” As he turned away he found himself facing a furious dragon.
Praise for Dragon Healer: “Rachel Reeves has done an excellent job of telling this story. It is engaging and interesting. It pulls the reader in instantly with many vivid descriptions and flowing dialogue. Even the dragon’s speeches are intriguing, as is the relationship with Jerin’s dragon. The two share something special, and it is easy to see, and feel, this unique bond. Jerin’s bond with the King is interesting as well. His respect for his father is nearly tangible, and I liked that about this story. I saw everything in this story, and it was all pleasurable. Time slipped by as I read this, and before I wanted it to be, it was over. Dragon Healer pulled me into the world of dragons and elves and I loved every minute of it!” —Carly, Fallen Angel Reviews
Dragon Rescue by Rachel Reeves
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales, is entirely coincidental. Dragon Rescue COPYRIGHT © 2007 by Rachel Reeves All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission of the author or The Wild Rose Press except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles or reviews. Contact Information:
[email protected] Cover Art by Rae Monet The Wild Rose Press PO Box 706 Adams Basin, NY 14410-0706 Visit us at www.thewildrosepress.com Publishing History First Faery Rose Edition, 2008 Print ISBN 1-60154-207-0 Published in the United States of America
Dedication To my precious son, Cael, whom I have handed my love of dragons to. Also to my loving husband who helps bring my characters to life.
Chapter One Streaks of morning sunlight danced their way around Jenna’s room. At a quick glance, one would see the silver hairbrush with matching mirror, the jewelry carelessly placed upon the dresser, and in her wardrobe, beautiful gowns trimmed with delicate elfin markings. But if one looked closer, they would find things a princess should not possess. She’d hidden a sword under her bed, and an outfit in which to practice in. Their father had been lenient, but there were some rules even he was not willing to break. He gave his daughters the freedom to go anywhere within the village without an escort, but they could not venture further. They were also not allowed to participate in activities that were not considered proper for girls. Jenna lay on her bed; her long, dark brown curls draped off the edge and gently touched the floor. The sun was rising and the adventurous dreams she’d had were slowly fading from her mind. It had been a week since her brother, Jerin, had married Tani. After the ceremony, they left for their honeymoon, snuggled close on Skie with Solaris following in their wake. As she woke, her mouth formed a small pout, now it was just Juliene and herself left. Her father would start pushing them to find a husband. She did not know what the rush was, she wanted to get out of the palace and explore the world. Sure, her home was beautiful beyond belief, but Jenna felt that it was time to see what else was out there. She wanted to be more than just Princess Jenna; the title meant nothing 1
Rachel Reeves to her. It’s not as if there was a prince from another kingdom waiting for her hand in marriage. Heck, she didn’t even know if there were any other elfin villages. “Maybe I should be the one to find out.” “Find out what?” Juliene asked, as she entered though the door that separated their rooms. Knowing that it was Juliene’s habit to come into her room every morning, she was not startled to hear the singsong voice of her sister. Jenna turned to look at her; it was like staring into a looking glass. On the outside, no one could tell them apart, they shared the same dark brown hair that shimmered in silky waves down their backs. Their eyes were not theirs alone, but that of their brother as well. All three siblings shared the emerald eyes of their mother. In fact, sometimes it seemed uncanny, how much the girls resembled Rislyn. Both were slender with an hourglass figure that had the elfin men constantly surrounding them. Jenna would always make excuses to escape the crowd and disappear into the gardens or any other secluded area. She even ventured up the cliff to visit the dragons. She would often spend hours with them, but she was not as fortunate as Jerin and had not been able to commune with any of the dragons. Though there was a young female with lavender undertones that Jenna had become attached to. She would sit next to her and talk of her dreams, wishing that one day they could communicate and share the special bond that Jerin and Skie had. “Hello, Jenna. Find out what?” Juliene asked again, with just the tiniest bit of irritation coming out in her voice. Jenna was the only one that could fluster her so. Jenna sighed, how could she explain to Juliene, in a way that she’d understand, that she 2
Dragon Rescue needed to escape this world and go adventuring? “Oh, nothing much. Just my same old dream of leaving this place and exploring the world.” “Is that all?” Juliene replied. “I would think you’d be dreaming up new schemes to get us into trouble with father.” Jenna gave her twin the most innocent look as she replied, “Me? Get us into trouble with schemes? Never. I’m insulted.” Jenna couldn’t keep up the pout for long, before erupting into laughter. If there was one thing her sister was good at, it was making Jenna laugh, even when she irritated her. “Well, I’m glad you think this is funny Jenna, but now you have me worried about what you are going to do next, and if it is dangerous.” Jenna rose from the bed and looked for a day dress to change into. “Oh Juliene, don’t be worried about me, I have no plans for anything.” Juliene elegantly sat on Jenna’s bed. “That’s what has me worried. You either don’t have a scheme yet, or you have one and you aren’t sharing it with me.” Jenna turned around and looked at her sister, a little hurt at that, she had always shared her adventures with Juliene. She was the one person Jenna could be herself with. Sure, many others saw that she was a bit mischievous, but they all thought it was just harmless play, as if she were still a child. “Juliene, I always tell you everything; have I changed so much, that I would not let you know what I plan? All I know right now is this: I am getting restless…especially knowing that Jerin is out there somewhere with Tani. Free of their bonds, doing what they want to do most. Now that we know how to cure the dragons, they can go anywhere.” She hadn’t meant to say so much; she didn’t even realize that she harbored those thoughts within her. 3
Rachel Reeves Juliene recognized that look in her sister’s eyes. This did not bode well—it meant that Jenna was drumming up a scheme. She only hoped that it did not include her, she was completely happy here. “Jenna, whatever you are thinking. Do not do it.” “Whatever do you mean?” The honey sweetness poured off her tongue, “I repeat…I do not currently plan to go wandering off into the deep unknown. Why don’t you come with me to go visit the dragons?” “You go on, I’ll find you later. There is something that I need to attend to.” “Suit yourself.” With that, Jenna disappeared out the door and down the hall, on her way to visit Camille, hoping that one day, she would be able to race through the sky on Camille’s back. **** Simon was lost. He had been wandering aimlessly in the woods for at least a week. Where could Tani have disappeared to? The women in the village were wreaking havoc because she had not delivered her salve. Once they had discovered she was not at her cottage, and it seemed she hadn’t been there for a few days, it was decided that he should go and find her. It looked to Simon that she had packed some of her belongings, but not all. There were some large footprints mixed with a smaller pair leading out to the clearing. Maybe she had eloped with a merchant or something, though there were no wheel or horse tracks. Simon pondered over what he knew. It wasn’t much, but he couldn’t turn back now. The mountains were straight ahead and it would take him a few days to reach them. Once he made it there, the path might be too steep for his horse. “Tani, I know we are friends, but when I find 4
Dragon Rescue you, I may have to hurt you.” Saying this out loud did not make him feel any better. He worried for her, and wished they hadn’t grown apart the last few years. He’d often thought about asking her to marry him, but he knew that she wouldn’t. She had become comfortable with her life and there was no room for him in it. Simon shrugged his shoulders, sighed and continued on towards the rising peaks ahead of him. As the day moved on, so did he. A few days later, as he stopped for a rest, he stared at the towering mountains before him. “Well, Steel, we should be there sometime tomorrow.” He stroked his horse’s head, hoping that he could guide him up the slopes, and continued on his trek. Close to sundown, Simon decided to make camp. He really hated being this far from home; in fact, he could easily say that there was no sign of Tani and return to his old life. Yet something stirred inside of him, something more than concern for Tani, and he just couldn’t bring himself to turn around. He felt pulled in this direction and he’d begun to like the solitude of the woods. This night was no different from the others he had traveled. He tethered Steel up to a tree, and went to sleep. When morning came, he packed up and was off again, knowing that he would reach those looming peaks today. Around midday, he noticed a couple of dragons in the air. He laughed to himself, remembering Tani’s obsession with the creatures. They were magnificent, but they really didn’t impact his life. As he glanced once more at the pair in the sky, it almost looked as if there were something or someone riding on the back of each of them. Now that was a silly idea, people didn’t ride dragons, they killed them. Well, at least some did; there were not many left and dragon items were becoming more costly as of late. Though that did 5
Rachel Reeves not matter much to him, he was never one for style. He was more of the sensible type, his clothes were not torn, but they were not flighty either. The only piece of jewelry he wore was a silver pendant given to him from his father. It was carved with a unique, intricate design of a dragon’s head. It had been in the family for hundreds of years. As far as Simon knew, there was nothing significant about it—save that it was an heirloom. Sooner than he expected, wishing he was anywhere but where he was, Simon arrived at the foot of the mountains.
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Chapter Two “Good morning, Camille.” Jenna walked in and stroked the dragon’s neck. She wished she could experience what Jerin and Tani did with Skie and Solaris. Numerous times she had asked Jerin to help her talk to Camille, but nothing he suggested worked. Jenna would try to send images, and words through her mind, but there was no connection. It was frustrating. Jenna sat down next to the dragon and concentrated on the Falls. The lake that they flowed into was beautiful. It was surrounded by wild flowers, and the forest was near. There was a spot near a tree where she would sit and pretend she was out on an adventure. It was a nice escape, except Jenna was never there alone. She sighed and laid her head on Camille. Her eyes closed and she left her mind open, hoping that this would be the day that Camille would communicate with her. Jenna wasn’t sure if it was her imagination or not, but she suddenly seemed to get a hazy flash of the lake. Overwhelmed with joy, she forced herself to calm down, and fought to keep her eyes closed. She needed to find out if this was really happening. Slowly the picture became clear; she could see Camille lounging in the grass. Jenna pictured herself sitting next to the dragon. Though afraid to open her eyes and risk losing the image, she decided she needed to see the look on Camille’s face. There, it had to be real—Camille was looking at her with a dragon’s smile upon her face. “Shall we go there my lady?” Jenna inquired with sparkles in her emerald eyes. If Juliene knew that 7
Rachel Reeves she was contemplating leaving on the dragon’s back, she would lose her ladylike composure and whip her like a five-year old child. Camille nodded her head, as if to say, “Yes, let’s go!” She shifted her position to allow Jenna on to her back. Jenna looked around the area to see if anyone was around. Especially Mayghen; she would not hesitate to tell King Grelas that Jenna had left the grounds. Jenna knew that she was just looking out for Juliene and herself, but she wished Mayghen would just back off. She did not have to do her job so well. Sometimes she was amazed at how quickly she learned of her little adventures here and there. Not noticing anyone, Jenna climbed on the lavender back of Camille. Trying to gain her balance as Camille stood, she wasn’t sure she knew what she was getting into. This didn’t feel at all like the rides she would go on with Jerin and Skie. It was amazing to have Camille beneath her, completely different from a horse. Those she could live without, they were always so skittish that she had fallen off far too many times during her girlhood. Camille headed towards the opening of the cave, ready to go off on a jaunt with the little elfin princess that had always come to see her. Jenna grasped the dragon’s neck; she felt the wind caused by Camille’s pumping wings, and then she was lifted off of the ground, into the sky. Jenna had not expected the force of the air rushing by her, she held on tighter, struggling to stay on top. She realized that she should have thought about grabbing one of the harnesses for this kind of thing. If anything happened to her, she would never hear the end of it, or see the outside of her room again. Jenna steadied herself, and settled in to bask in the energy flowing through her body. Nothing could feel this good. 8
Dragon Rescue **** Another night spent on the hard ground. Simon was really getting sick of this. He needed a warm dinner, a fresh bath and a soft bed. “Steel, remind me again why I am out here? I bet Tani is back at her cottage doing whatever she does with her herbs. Remind me to pay her a special visit when I finally get back.” Though he said the words, he knew they were not true. He labored onward. After hours of climbing, Simon came upon an oasis hidden between the mountain peaks. A beautiful lake lay before him, and in the distance, he spied a glorious waterfall. It looked so peaceful, but he felt like an intruder. “I almost feel bad, but if I can’t have a soft bed and a decent meal, at least I can get this stink off of me.” Simon nudged Steel into a gallop, rushing towards the lake. Finding a copse of trees, Simon tied Steel up, giving him enough slack to drink and munch on the flowers. He stripped off his clothes, briefly scrubbed them in the water and laid them out to dry. He retrieved a bar of soap that Tani had given him and went back into the water. It was soothingly warm and he felt he could stay there forever. As he washed, his thoughts once again turned towards his childhood friend and of the days they’d spent together at the pond near the village. “Ah, Tani. Where have you gone off to?” Simon sighed and decided that it was time to leave this sweet paradise and travel forward. He checked his clothes and decided they were dry enough. While pulling on his trousers, he was surprised by a strange sight in the sky. Heading toward him was what looked like a pinkish dragon with a lump on its back. The lump was screaming, “Oh God. Why didn’t I get a harness? Camille! I’m slipping!” “What in the world?” Simon whispered to himself. “There’s a woman on the back of that 9
Rachel Reeves thing?” “Camille! I can’t hold on!” She seemed truly panicked now. “Please get lower.” Simon watched as the small woman with an expanse of hair fell from the dragon and landed in the lake. “Damn, is it my lot in life to follow after women? This one probably left no note either.” Simon dove back into the water, drenching his clothes again, and swam to the spot she had landed. He had to dive fairly deep but saw her drifting down. He grabbed her and swiftly swam upwards, gasping for breath when he broke the surface. The woman was unconscious and did not appear to be breathing. He reached the shore as quickly as possible and laid her gently on her side. He listened for a heartbeat and was relieved to find one. He then pressed on her stomach to try to release the water she’d swallowed. It flowed out of her mouth, and she did cough, but there were no other signs that she was breathing. If he had the time to notice, he would have gazed upon the sweetest lips he had ever seen, instead, he urgently grabbed them and blew air into her mouth; and was rewarded with a slap across his face. “How dare you! I am not some barmaid that you can just kiss at anytime.” To think that he had fished this tempest out of the water. “Well, that’s a wonderful way to say thank you, I suppose I’ll just put you back where I got you from then.” Simon stooped down, scooped up the little wisp of a girl and plopped her back into the lake. “I bid you farewell now.” As he turned away, he found himself facing a furious dragon. He slowly raised his arms, tried to communicate that he meant no harm and backed 10
Dragon Rescue up slowly towards the water—only to blackout and fall into the shallows of the lake. “Oh no, what have I done?” Jenna watched with horror as the man who’d saved her fell. Dripping with water, Jenna tried to move him further on shore and out from the water’s edge. It was no use, he was just too heavy. So she sat down on the soggy ground and propped his head on her lap. He wasn’t really all that bad, if you had to be rescued by someone, it might as well be someone who could take your breath away. Now that she had the chance to really look at him, she noticed that he was quite handsome indeed. She wasn’t used to men who had hair on their faces. Elves did not grow hair there or on their chest. She ran her hand across this man’s chest; his breath rose and fell beneath it. Besides her brother, she had never let a man get this close to her, that was Juliene’s department and she wasn’t sure that even her sister had ever been this close to anyone of her courtiers. Jenna felt so small next to him—she had a petite body, quite common among the women in her family. Her mother had been tiny and people would often compare Jenna and her sister to her. Sometimes she would picture them all together going shopping or some other silliness. Maybe if she had been around, Jenna wouldn’t have this wild streak inside her, begging to get out. She continued to explore his chest with her hand, but could not turn away from his face. When Simon woke, he looked straight into a pair of emerald eyes that surpassed the beauty of the gem. Soft hands were stroking his hair and for a moment he thought he was in heaven. Though that thought quickly reversed itself into hell when the little devil’s mouth opened. “Well, you’re finally awake then, I suppose my debt to you is paid. I’ll be on my way now.” At that, she stood up and let 11
Rachel Reeves his head fall back to the ground. “Damn it, woman, stop!” As he rose, his head was in excruciating pain. What had she hit him with? Before she could get away, Simon took hold of her arm and turned her to face him. “Please, I have some questions before you leave.” “Unhand me!” A growl erupted from the dragon and he immediately let her go. “Please stay. I have been wandering around for weeks it seems. Do not leave me.” “Why should I stay?” “Well, I did save your life back there.” “As I did yours.” “You were the cause of my injuries.” Pointing towards the beast he continued, “That over there was the cause of yours.” “Don’t talk about Camille like that, it wasn’t her fault. I was the one who neglected to get the proper gear for a ride.” Jenna looked down and in a quieter voice finished. “I just couldn’t chance being seen.” “Running away from someone are you?” “No! And that is none of your concern.” Jenna turned on her heal and headed toward Camille, muttering to herself. This was some fine adventure. She should have just stayed home and worked on her swordplay. Simon took note of the change in her voice. “I’m sorry, please stay, if for no other reason but to take pity and give me direction.” His words made her stop. This was no way for a princess to be acting. Juliene certainly wouldn’t have treated him in such a manner. Jenna was confused at her reaction to this man, how could he have such an effect on her? It couldn’t possibly be his chestnut eyes, or his soft hair, and most definitely not that hard chest. Nor was it the scent of lavender radiating off of him. Simon walked over and gently tapped her 12
Dragon Rescue shoulder, fully aware of the dragon watching his every move. “Miss, I’m begging you, don’t go and leave me stranded here. My name is Simon, and I’m from Buxham. I have been searching for a girl from our village. There has been no sign of her as of yet and I don’t even know where to look anymore, let alone where I am.” Jenna turned to look at him, avoiding his eyes she instead looked down at his chest. Her slight intake of breath made him grin like a cat. It was a good thing she couldn’t see it. Wasn’t Tani from around Buxham? Her brother did take her like a thief in the night. Jenna wondered if he was looking for her new sister-inlaw. Except that he said he was looking for a girl, not a woman. She supposed it would be better if she left it alone for now… “You shouldn’t be sorry. I was mostly angry with myself for falling. You can call me, Jenna.” She chanced to look up at him and ran smack into those deep brown eyes she had been enchanted with earlier. There was a flutter in her stomach that she had never felt before. She had avoided this kind of thing all her life, why was this happening to her now? Juliene would be thrilled; Jenna wasn’t sure how her father would react, but she was pretty sure there was no way that Jerin would like him, for he was human after all. Her next words were out of her mouth before she realized what she had said. “Why don’t you come with me and I’ll guarantee you a place to stay for the night.” “How far is it?” “Only about an hour over those peaks.” “I assure you that Steel is a champion horse, but there is no way he could cross those peaks in an hour.” “Horse? You have a horse with you?” “I would be a fool if I didn’t.” Jenna smiled. “Yes, unless you have a dragon, 13
Rachel Reeves of course.” Simon couldn’t stop the chuckle even if he wanted to. “And you handled it so well.” She glared up at him. Why did he have to be so tall? “Besides, Jenna, I’m not leaving Steel, so you’ll have to fly off on that dragon of yours, and leave me here, or else, guide me yourself.” Jenna wasn’t sure she liked the way he was looking at her. It reminded her too much of how others looked at her sister, though it did send a warm, tingly feeling throughout her body. Ugh, she thought, I can’t deal with these new emotions right now. “Fine, I’ll send Camille back and guide you myself.” Simon had not expected her to agree so readily. He wondered what she could be drumming up inside her head. Jenna’s thirst for freedom ruled over her common sense. By now, someone had surely alerted her father that she was missing. Maybe if she sent Camille back, her little jaunt could last a while longer. “Are you sure that is a good idea? Besides, I don’t think…Camille, is it…will leave you alone with me.” “Well, I am coming, and that is final.” Spoken like a real princess brat, she thought. This was going to be fun. Jenna walked over to Camille and put her hand on her head. She sent a mental picture of Camille in her cave, combined with the word home. There was a low growl from her that she had no trouble interpreting. That was a definite no. I guess she doesn’t want to leave me alone with this strange man, can’t blame her really. Camille returned the favor with a rather difficult image to receive, but the gist of it was that she was staying, and that was that. Her thoughts were interrupted by Simon’s voice. “Well, shall we get going then?” 14
Dragon Rescue “Um…Simon…maybe you should finish dressing first.” Simon turned crimson; he’d forgotten his halfdressed state in front of this beautiful woman. While getting fully dressed, he took the time to admire the little wood nymph that literally fell from the sky. She was slim, with long hair that fell well past her waist, he would not forget those eyes and that pouting mouth anytime soon, though he would rather not remember the sting of her hand. She was definitely a feisty one. He grinned to himself as he thought of the shocked look on her face as he tossed her back into the lake. “Yes, this will be an interesting day,” he mumbled. “What was that?” “Oh, nothing. Are you ready?” “I am, but can your steed carry the two of us, as well as be comfortable in the presence of a dragon?” “I am sure Steel will be just fine.” In fact, Steel and Camille were looking at each other with curious stares. Simon was relieved to see that his horse had not been adversely affected by Camille’s presence. “Ladies first,” he said, as he helped Jenna up. Jenna was not sure she was ready to do this; her confidence was leaving her when it came to riding his animal. The last horse she’d ridden had thrown her at the first sight of a dragon. Please stay true, she thought. Simon gathered his few scattered items, untied Steel, and mounted the horse behind her. Her petite body fit perfectly next to his, and what was that flowery scent invading his senses? This was going to be a long, long day. They ventured through the forest and over the peaks. They bypassed the waterfall, and Simon spied a cove behind the falls. That would be an interesting place to be, Simon thought, while 15
Rachel Reeves listening to Jenna talk about the mountains and the area. She knew it well. He learned that she had studied maps of the hinterland, and had visited as often as her escorts would allow her. It must be why she’d decided to go adventuring this afternoon. Not necessarily running away from someone or something, just trying to get away. He knew how that was. Sure, he loved his village, but he was starting to enjoy the journey that had been thrust upon him, and wasn’t so sure he wanted it to end too soon. He kept a steady arm around her. It felt good to have this woman so close to him. She was muddling up just about every sense he had, but he wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. He was also well aware of the dragon that had not let them out of her sight. Simon wondered how it was that they could talk. Was it just an understanding, like Steel and himself, or was there more to it? Interrupting her speech on the trail they were currently traveling, Simon thought he would try to get an answer about the subject. “Jenna, how is it that you and Camille can talk?” “It’s not so much that we really talk. Right now it’s more like images in our minds, with a word or two thrown in.” “Can everyone do that?” Simon was even more intrigued…so there was more to it then just mutual understanding. “Does she understand what we are saying now?” “Not in so many words, but she can read our actions, and we speak some through the mind. I do not know if she understands the spoken word.” They stayed on this topic for a while, and Jenna shared that her brother and his dragon conversed freely in their minds. It almost wasn’t fair, but it was the truth. What seemed even less fair was that his wife had been able to do so as 16
Dragon Rescue easily with her dragon. It was a good thing that Simon agreed with her on this, or else he might have a second bump on his head. She really did feel sorry about that…but he did throw her in the lake. Remembering the moment when she’d cradled his head on her lap, she thought about his muscular chest that she had been lucky enough to gaze upon.
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Chapter Three Time ran away from them while they talked. Jenna and Simon were so much at ease, that if someone had happened upon them, they might easily conclude that the two had known each other for a lifetime. “Oh! Look at the sky…it is so beautiful.” Jenna’s emerald eyes lit up when she gazed off towards the sunset. Though she asked Simon to look at the sky, he was too mesmerized by the expression on her face. She was full of joy and delight, and thereby blocking anything else but the pureness of enjoying nature’s beauty. Simon would hold onto this memory forever. He closed his eyes and savored having his little wood nymph snuggle in close as she watched the sun set behind the mountain peak. When the moment was over, he realized that they most likely wouldn’t reach her village before it turned completely dark. Breaking the moment, he asked her, “How much longer? Steel could use a rest and I don’t think we should proceed further tonight.” “Um...I’m not sure, the trip is so quick by dragon, and I don’t remember it taking this long on horseback. I thought for sure we would reach home before sundown.” “Why don’t we make camp and then set off in the morning?” Jenna was terrified at the thought. She’d never really spent this amount of time away from her village before. Well, at least not without an entourage of people following in her wake. “Where will I sleep?” Jenna asked curiously. 18
Dragon Rescue “I have some blankets that will keep you warm enough and give you some padding.” Simon wished he knew why she’d blanched when he’d suggested they make camp for the night. Jenna wasn’t sure she should accept his generosity; she did not want him to be without his blankets. It was her own fault that she was out here. “But…what will you do? Where will you sleep?” “I’ll manage one night without.” Jenna couldn’t hide the relief on her face. She had never been without a bed. Some adventurer, she thought. I can’t even last a night without my soft snuggly bed. As Simon made camp and provided dinner, Jenna walked over to Camille. Before she could say anything, she was hit with the strong image of Camille wrapped around her and of Simon next to Steel. The two words, mine and safe, resonated through her head. Jenna mirrored the image except moved Simon a little closer to herself. “Needs warmth, too.” Once again the image changed and it showed Simon wrapped up near a fire. “No,” Jenna replied, and changed him back to her idea. After going back and forth, they finally came to the agreement that he would be somewhat near them. Camille was not happy about this. Jenna was her human and she didn’t know this man. Jenna was also not pleased about her predicament; she had escaped the eyes of her father only to have a dragon act like a mother hen. Well, there were some things she couldn’t do anything about. Jenna walked over to Simon and sat down next to him. She rather liked him and already didn’t want to let him leave when the time came. Maybe she could follow him. As if that could happen. After this, her father would order Mayghen to never let her out of her sight. Lost in 19
Rachel Reeves thought, she felt a rough hand gently turn her face in the direction of the man sitting next to her. “What’s troubling you?” She could see the concern in his soft eyes and it broke her heart a little more to think of his inevitable departure. “It is nothing. I was just thinking about the trouble I am going to be in when we return.” “No one is going to hurt you.” “Oh, it won’t be like that. I just don’t know if I will see more than the walls of my room any time soon.” “That won’t happen.” “You don’t know my father. He must be terribly worried about me. I don’t know why I have to be the one always getting into trouble.” “He seems a little overprotective.” “No, not really. He just loves us that much. It’s not as if I haven’t given him reason to worry. Juliene, my sister, is perfect, but I am…” a little smile appeared on her face, “…usually causing some sort of mishap or another.” Simon’s eyes gleamed in the firelight. “Now, I can’t possibly believe that you would lead others astray.” She noticed the teasing in his voice and gave him a light punch in the shoulder. “Ow! That hurt.” Simon feigned his pain, and gave a child-like pout that was not becoming at all. “I didn’t mean for it to hurt. It seems you enjoy teasing me.” “Then I apologize and will strive not to.” He couldn’t hold a straight face and let out a chuckle. “There you go again, teasing me.” Jenna sniffed and bent her head down again to act as if she were hurt by his comment. Feeling a bit guilty for punching his shoulder, she leaned in and placed a chaste kiss where her fist had hit. Simon went completely still as her lips seared through his shirt, the heat ran its course throughout his body. 20
Dragon Rescue She was one of the most beautiful creatures he had seen in his life. With this one kiss, he suddenly wasn’t sure if he was relieved that she had a dragon to guard her, or frustrated. Simon used his fingers to lift her face to him. There were no words spoken between them; their eyes met briefly before he lowered his mouth to cover hers. He slowly tasted her lips, running his tongue along the outside of them, and then claiming her mouth once more. He continued this rhythm, and it was quickly driving them both a little insane. It had been so long since he had kissed a woman; he could feel the effect it was having on him. He decided to drink her in, as long as she would allow him to do so. She was an innocent, he could tell. It made no difference; he was quickly becoming intoxicated by her kisses. Jenna didn’t know why she allowed him to kiss her like this. She was partly curious and another part of her refused to end this great adventure. Jenna did not have it in her heart to give up this amazing first kiss. Simon wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer to him as he deepened the kiss. But that was where it ended; Camille growled and moved closer to the pair. Steel decided enough was enough and started to stomp the ground around him, trying to threaten the dragon away from his master. Simon released Jenna with a look of guilt on his face. “I…” “Don’t.” she whispered. Jenna would not allow him to apologize for the sweetest moment in her life. She rose and headed towards Camille to calm her down. Flashes of various images bombarded her the closer she got to her dragon. Some were of her father and the palace, with the intonation that she was never going to see the outside world again, if Camille had anything to do with it. Jenna was instantly happy she had never shared what her 21
Rachel Reeves room had looked like or else she would probably be stuck there. “You safe, no man. Mine.” Great, she couldn’t have picked a better guardian. She showed an image of herself. “Mine, I am safe. That man saved me.” “Not that safe, and mine.” That’s all Jenna needed, a possessive dragon. She thought it best if she stayed by her side to calm her down. She couldn’t blame her…much. Meanwhile, Simon had settled his horse down and was preparing the camp for the night. He gathered the blankets and walked over to offer them to Jenna. “Here, you’ll need these.” “And you will still be cold.” “As I told you, I’ll manage and so I will. You however, will catch your death in this chill and therefore need these more than I.” Regret still shone in his eyes. He should not have kissed her. Simon only hoped he could keep his guilt from showing when he met her father on the morrow. He walked over to Steel, leaned against the tree and tried to fall asleep. Camille had curled herself around Jenna—she needed to protect her. She knew the trouble her hatchling could get into. Skie, on numerous occasions, would talk about Jenna’s mischievous ways. Camille knew it was up to her to guard the princess. The rest of the night was uneventful, but as the sun rose over the mountains, Camille heard muffled voices off to the east. She tried to move without disturbing Jenna, but it was no use. She woke up at the slightest movement. “Voices.” “Where?” “Over there.” Jenna had an image of trees, but she couldn’t tell where Camille was showing her. “I can not tell where that is.” Camille pointed her snout directing where to go. “Thank you, I’ll go. They might hear 22
Dragon Rescue you coming.” She ended with a hilarious image of people running in terror from Camille. It was getting easier. The more they “talked” the more the words and images flowed freely between them. Reluctantly, Camille let her leave the campsite. Jenna cautiously walked in the direction that her dragon had nodded towards. She heard nothing, but she was careful nonetheless. Just when she was about to give up, thinking that Camille had sent her off in the wrong direction on purpose, she heard some muffled voices in the distance. It was clear there was a disagreement between them, a man and a woman from the sound of it. Jenna wondered if it was a lover’s spat and almost turned away, but stayed where she stood when she recognized the woman’s voice. That is Mayghen, what is she doing out here? She crept in closer, ready to protect her if need be. “No! Dad, I’m tired of doing what you ask, that is why I stayed.” Mayghen all but shouted these words, though careful to keep her voice down. Who knew when someone might follow her out here? She had feelings for her father, but she knew what he was doing was wrong. “Listen here, daughter…you will do as I ask or I will let out your secret.” Lanthu knew if he threatened her position she would do anything for him. He was disgusted with her, how could a daughter of his enjoy being in the employ of someone else? She was of royal blood. Glaring at her father, Mayghen replied. “You wouldn’t. Why would you want to ruin your only child’s future? I love where I am; I like watching out for Jenna and Juiliene. Why would you take that away from me?” “Daughter, you should be ashamed of yourself! You should be reaching for the stars. It was you, who should have married Prince Jerin, not that snippy little half-breed.” 23
Rachel Reeves Lanthu sneered at the thought of Tani, she was an abomination and she was next in line for queen. The daughter of Dreanna should have been his, not that dirty human’s. He shuddered as he remembered walking in on them pawing each other. It was absolutely disgraceful. “I will not do it.” Mayghen noticed that her father had almost forgotten she was there. He was probably lost in thoughts of Dreanna. He’d always been obsessed with Tani’s mother, as well as the dragons. Mayghen knew he had never loved her own mother, but was forced to marry her by King Grelas. Her mother had been miserable, and Mayghen swore she would not end up like her. “You will and that is final. I can easily give the king proof that his daughter’s maid was personally involved with the dragons’ illness.” Lanthu glared back at his pathetic daughter. “Why are you doing this to me?” She was talking to his back. Once again, he had given her his orders and started to leave. Mayghen’s fire was running out, tears were rolling down her face. All she wanted was peace and he would never leave her alone. All of this was because of Dreanna. Mayghen had even hated Tani for a short time, because of her father’s obsession. He stopped in his tracks, faced his daughter and yelled. “You know why! I will contact you again and if you do not do as you are told, you will be humiliated in front of everyone you hold dear.” Lanthu turned away from his daughter. He was ashamed to call her his, she was just like her mother. The only reason he had anything to do with Lauralas was because she’d had the same look as Dreanna, but was nothing like her in substance. He was almost glad when she passed on. At least he was free from her temper. Though, it would seem Mayghen had the same streak in her. He would need to do something about that, he still 24
Dragon Rescue needed her for the time being. Mayghen couldn’t answer him, he held too much over her head. Jenna and Juliene would never forgive her if they knew. She did not know Prince Jerin well, but was sure he would have her put to death, since his own dragon’s brother almost died because of her. No, not because of her, because of her father…oh, who was she kidding? She turned away from the man who raised her, she felt no love for him and that made her heart hurt more. She mounted her horse; she was lucky to have Mary. All these rides to meet Lanthu would have been impossible if Mary hadn’t carried her out. The horse was the only thing her father had given her that she cherished. She knew it was not out of love, but for his own advantage that he had given the horse to her, but Mayghen loved her all the same. It would take at least an hour to get back to the palace and Juliene would be waking soon. If she had indeed gone to bed in the first place, the palace had been in disarray since Jenna had gone missing. King Grelas couldn’t decide if he was angry at her disappearance or terrified that someone had taken her. Juliene was eerily silent, it seemed she knew more about Jenna being gone than she lead on, but Mayghen could feel the fear she had for her sister. **** Simon woke to find Jenna gone, but her dragon was still there. “Jenna?” He waited for an answer. “Jenna…please answer.” He looked around the outskirts of the camp and didn’t notice anything out of order. Simon started to worry, he was aware she knew the land, but why would she wander off without waking him? Something was not right and he knew that if he were going to find her, the dragon would have the answer. He strode over to Camille and looked into her eyes, trying to 25
Rachel Reeves communicate that he meant business. He wanted to know where Jenna went and he wasn’t going to take no for an answer. Surprisingly, Camille pointed her snout in a particular direction, as if to show him where Jenna had disappeared to. Simon immediately headed down the same path that he assumed Jenna had. He rushed as much as he dared; he did not want to alert anyone or anything to his presence. He took it to heart that though Camille looked worried, she did not seem to be in distress. She would not still be there if someone had taken Jenna. He grinned; he could picture the dragon having a nice breakfast with the supposed kidnapper. He next imagined himself in the same position. He would need to remember that the next time he tried to kiss those luscious lips of Jenna’s. Although, just the thought of her had his body aching for more. He loved the look of her, even those pointy ears of hers. They were not so different from his, except the little point at the top, but they looked delicious. “Stop torturing yourself, you need to find her if you are ever going to kiss her again.” Simon carried on, trying not to get distracted again, thinking about her eyes. So very peculiar they were. “Stop it, Simon.” He said aloud to himself. It took him about fifteen minutes to reach her and when he spotted her, he rushed to her side, wishing he knew why she had taken off in the first place. She sure seemed to need a lot of rescuing. He couldn’t tell if she had been attacked or if she had hurt herself. But there she was, sitting on the ground in a fit. “Jenna…Jenna! What happened? Are you hurt?” She didn’t seem to notice him. It didn’t look as if it even registered that Simon was at her side. “How dare she? Why didn’t she come to me?” she said loudly, pounding her fist on the ground. 26
Dragon Rescue She was furious about what she had overheard. “She who? Jenna, talk to me.” Simon wrapped his arms around her to try to calm her down. “When I get home, she will have some explaining to do.” Simon gently shook her, trying to get her attention. “Jenna, please…tell me. What are you talking about?” Jenna started to struggle, realizing that someone had a hold of her. “Unhand me.” She saw straight through Simon, almost thinking that awful man had discovered her. Simon held on even tighter. “Jenna, it’s me, Simon. What is the matter? Tell me.” She wouldn’t stop squirming in his arms, and seemed blind with fury. He did the only thing that came to mind, well, it was what he had been thinking about since last night. Letting go with one hand, he steadied her head and lowered his mouth to hers. He hoped that the kiss they had shared the previous night would calm her down and bring her around. He poured his soul into that kiss. It was everything he was—hard and firm, but at the same time, sweet and pleading for Jenna to return it with a passion of her own. Trying to struggle against him, still thinking he was the man that Mayghen had called father, she found it impossible to get out of his arms. Then memory flickered in her mind and she knew she’d felt these lips before. It was Simon. He had come to find her. She was relieved it was him, for she was experiencing the most passionate moment in her life. She matched his kiss then, sharing her essence with him. She felt as if she were floating away on a cloud, his lips scorched her body where they touched and he was rubbing her neck in a way that was driving her crazy. Simon had shifted their bodies so that he was now on top of her. He was so 27
Rachel Reeves large it might seem that he would crush her little body, but they made it work. She didn’t want this ever to end; sweet images were burning her mind. Her only wish at that moment was to stay with Simon forever.
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Dragon Rescue
Chapter Four Camille and Steel looked at one another, each wishing they knew when Simon and Jenna would return. Steel was starting to shift around and tug on his rope, while Camille stared off in the direction she had sent them. Maybe she should go after them, surely it was safe…she had not heard the voices in awhile. She looked back over to Steel and motioned that she was going to find them. Steel seemed to understand and calmed down, he didn’t like it, but he was stuck. She started down the path, moving slowly, listening for them, “Jenna? I am coming.” There was no immediate answer, when she got closer, an image of Jenna and Simon flashed in her mind that was quite unsettling. She was going to eat him for this… Camille tore off as fast as she could go on foot. She found them quite easily; it was not hard, since she was getting bombarded with images. She lifted Simon off of Jenna with ease, and threw him to the ground. Her eyes were blazing and those sharp teeth were dangerously close to him. “Camille, Stop!” Jenna screamed, forgetting to say it in her mind. She tried to reach Simon, but was stopped by the dragon’s tail. “Breakfast.” “Camille, you can’t eat him! It was my fault.” She stroked Camille’s tail hoping that her touch would stop her. “You need to be safe, he is too dangerous.” “How so? I am a woman now.” “You are mine, and I will keep you safe.” “I am safe with him, remember? We went over this.” 29
Rachel Reeves “You are still a hatchling.” Jenna was getting frustrated with this dragon of hers, why did she have to ruin all of her fun? Though of course, without her, Jenna would have never known about Mayghen and her betrayal. She needed to get home now. “Camille, you need to stop. We have to get home. I know what happened to your kind.” That statement seemed to have some effect on her, but she still did not let Simon up. “Uh…if it is not too much to ask, could you get this thing off of me?” “She’s not a thing, and I am working on it. Be grateful you are still here, she wanted to eat you.” Thinking of the hilarity of the scene laid out before her, Jenna could not help but let out a chuckle. “You think this is funny? You are not the one with a dragon bearing down on you.” Her laughter was catching and Simon himself couldn’t help but laugh at his situation. With the man called Simon chuckling below her, Camille decided it was time to back off. The immediate danger was over and they needed to return home. “You win for now, but I will be watching, my hatchling.” “Let’s get going, home is a short ride from here and I have much to tell you and my father.” The thought of her father filled Jenna with dread, he was going to kill her. She could only imagine how he must have taken the news that she was gone, and he was probably pestering poor Juliene, who had no clue where she had run off to. “Come on, Simon, let’s get going.” “I still can’t get up.” Giggling again, Jenna told Camille to get off of Simon. “All right, let’s get this over with.” Camille let Simon get up and then motioned for Jenna to get on her back. “You will be riding with me the rest of the way.” 30
Dragon Rescue Jenna thought it best not to argue with her, and she could use a break from Simon, it muddled her brain when she was pressed up next to him. “Yes, ma’am.” “Simon, I’ll be riding the rest of the way on Camille.” Jenna gave him a sweet smile that ended up being seductive. “She insists.” “That is probably a good thing; I do not want to end up as her snack.” Yes, better to get a little distance from Jenna for now, she was too tempting. And he was going to be faced with her family soon. Maybe he should have let the dragon eat him… They made it back to the camp quite easily, though Steel looked a little annoyed at being left behind. “Sorry, ol’ boy, I did not mean to leave you tied up like that.” Simon stroked his horse; he needed to find a proper stable for him to rest. Breaking camp did not take much time, most everything was packed up. He buckled the saddle bags on Steel, which was all he had left to do. With all the excitement, he had almost forgotten about Tani, and how he would be leaving his dark beauty behind soon. “Well, I’m ready to go…you?” “Yes, I think so.” Though part of her never wanted to return home, if it meant she could stay with him. Her heart pounded when she thought about him and how she felt in his arms: completely safe. “What about the whole ‘no saddle for Camille’ thing?” “I should be able to manage since we won’t be in the sky.” No more than an hour later, they reached the outskirts of the village. Jenna’s stomach was starting to flutter, she was so nervous about seeing her father that she momentarily forgot about Mayghen and the dragons. She looked back at Simon riding behind her, he looked lost in thought and she wondered what it was that occupied his 31
Rachel Reeves mind so. “We’re almost there.” “Really? Where is it?” Simon looked up, but only noticed another mountain pass in their way. “It’s straight ahead, can’t you see the gates?” There it was. Simon looked closer in front of him. “Very clever indeed.” What he had mistaken for a mountain pass was, in actuality, a gate. Everything was meticulously placed to fool the unwelcome. Most travelers or bandits would pass this place up and continue down another way. He figured that not too many people ventured out here, anyway; Jenna had been the only one he had run in to. Unfortunately for him, that meant that he would likely be leaving Jenna in search of his childhood friend. “Yes, we have a cozy little hole in the mountain. Sometimes it can make you a little claustrophobic.” “Hence, your little escape to the outside world.” His eyes were dancing again. Jenna was happy to see that at least one last time. “Yes, hence my little journey out.” She couldn’t help but laugh at herself, though she would not have changed the way things had happened. She looked up in time to see one of the guards spot them and then hightail it inside. “And so it begins…” Jenna sighed to herself, the flutters returned and she laid her body against Camille’s neck. “What do you mean?” “The guard has spotted us, soon we’ll be surrounded by people, most of all, my father, and then my life will be over.” “Don’t worry. Maybe he’ll just be happy that you are safe.” Simon did not believe that for one moment. If she were his child, he would probably lock her away in a tower forever. “Not likely, you don’t know my father. He’ll yell first, lock me in my room, and then be happy I 32
Dragon Rescue am safe. I just hope Juliene isn’t too upset with me. I always tell her everything.” Camille sent an image of her protecting Jenna. “You will be fine, I still need to fly and you are the only one I’ll allow on my back. I’ll talk with Skie and see if she and Jerin can do anything about it.” “Thanks, Camille.” Jenna sent an image of herself rubbing Camille’s favorite place, her belly. She was happy at the progress her and Camille had made. Images were almost unnecessary, though sometimes, it added to the conversation. They could communicate through their minds without trouble. “Here they all come,” Camille announced. “Jenna…Jenna!” Juliene came running towards them. She had a look of relief, happy to see her sister and best friend had returned to her safely. “Juliene!” Jenna screamed with excitement to see her sister first. She could tell that Juliene had been worried about her, it looked as if she might not have slept during the night. Jenna hopped off of Camille, not caring if she was graceful about it, and wrapped her sister in her arms. “I’m so glad to see you, sis. I had the most amazing time and—” “You bozo, I’m happy you’re safe, but now I’m going to throttle you.” Tears were flowing down Juliene’s face. “But, Juliene, you have to hear about my adventure before you throttle me.” She knew that Juliene would be on edge till Jenna had given her every detail. Though, she thought she would leave out some of the intimate details. “Ahem…” Simon cleared his throat. “I don’t mean to interrupt this family re—” Simon stopped short, there looking back at him was Jenna, or her exact copy. Well, except that she was in a different dress. “You…and she…?” 33
Rachel Reeves “Simon this is Juliene, my sister, my twin sister.” She let out a short giggle, forgetting how uncanny it was for people to see them together for the first time. She looked back at her sister, whose eyes were like daggers. “Simon is it?” Her eyebrows shot up. “Well, how did you happen to come across him?” “It’s a long story, but he saved me.” “And how was it that he came to save you?” “Um…I…kind of…fell off of Camille.” Jenna looked to the ground not wanting to look her sister in the eyes. “You what?” Juliene was all but shaking Jenna, spouting off all sorts of things that included, “How could you?” and, “How stupid!” and finally, “Are you hurt?” “Juliene, I’m okay, I’ll tell the whole story soon.” Juliene looked back sharply and replied, “Yes, you will, because here comes Dad and Jerin.” Jenna groaned, “Can’t you hide me?” “Ha, I don’t think so.” “Some sister you are,” Jenna sniffed. “Hey, I am not the one who carelessly took off on a dragon.” “She does have a point, Jenna.” Simon thought he’d interject his opinion since he had once again faded into the background. Though, maybe that wasn’t such a bad thing with the mob of people that headed towards them. King Grelas and Jerin led the way of half the townsfolk, she hated that she’d made him worry. As with everything she did, Jenna usually only thought of herself first, and how it affected others later. She walked up to her father with her head lowered. “I’m really sorry, Father, for worrying you. I just wanted to go out for a short while, but then I fell from Camille, and—” “Shush child…I am just happy you are home.” 34
Dragon Rescue With that, he scooped his daughter up into his arms and squeezed her so tight that she thought he might almost break her bones. Tears had formed in both of their eyes. Father and daughter just stood there holding one another for many precious moments. “You realize, my young daughter, that this is not over?” “Yes, I know.” “Come, let us get back inside and home.” “Yes, sis. Let us, so that I can throttle you instead of this old man. It seems he has grown soft in his old age.” Jerin was relieved as well to have his sister back. He walked over and scooped her up into his arms. “You do know that you are not off the hook yet?” Jenna looked up at her brother. She could see that he was trying to keep that nasty temper inside. “I know.” Simon watched as Jenna’s father and brother scooped her into their arms. It was a touching scene and it was nice to see that she had come from a loving family. “So do you think she forgot about me?” Juliene looked up at the tall man standing next to her, never, she thought to herself. Too bad Jenna had found him first. “Fear not, Simon, I’m sure she’ll remember she left us stranded back here in a moment.” She wondered if she could get more information out of Simon than she could Jenna. She could see by the way he looked at Jenna that something had transpired between them. “So are you going to tell me what really happened out there?” “What do you mean? The simple truth of it is that I was taking a rest, she fell from the sky, I rescued her and here we are.” “But why didn’t she just fly Camille back home?” “She was going to offer me a night’s rest before 35
Rachel Reeves I continued on my search, I do not know my way around these parts.” “What kind of search…and why didn’t she just ride back on Camille and send someone else out for you?” Juliene had her suspicions, but she wanted to hear it from Jenna or Simon. She only hoped that her brother, Jerin, did not kill him for it. At least Jenna had Camille for protection. “We did not think of it…my friend has gone missing and I have been searching for her. Though, I do believe that it is hopeless.” Simon looked down at Juliene and then over at Camille. “I think she has gone and forgotten about her dragon as well.” When Simon looked her way, Camille decided that it was time to head up to the cave where she was sure that Skie and Solaris would be waiting for her return. With a final glance at her surroundings, she unfolded her wings and took to the air. Her shadow passed over the crowd, and for a brief moment all eyes were on her. “Look, they have forgotten us.” There was a touch of disappointment in Simon’s voice. Even though he had only met her yesterday, they shared a connection that he could not explain. He and Juliene watched as the king, Jenna and Jerin started off towards the gate, followed by the crowd that had appeared in King Grelas’ wake. “Well…should we wait to be remembered or follow behind?” Simon asked. “I guess we’d better follow them.” They walked side by side, each wondering what would happen next. Juliene was still curious about the man beside her and Simon was trying to figure out what he was going to do. How long should he stay and would he just return home when he left? Jenna suddenly stopped in her tracks, so much so that Jerin almost fell to the ground. “Oh, no, Simon. I forgot about Simon.” She turned to head back the way she came but felt a hand grab 36
Dragon Rescue her arm. “Now, just who is this Simon?” Jerin wasn’t sure he was comfortable with the way Jenna had said his name. “Simon is the man who saved me…and I’ve gone and left him back there with Juliene.” Jenna tried to remove Jerin’s hand from her arm, but it wasn’t budging. “Jerin, let me go, I promised him a night’s rest.” “Then let’s go greet him together, I should thank the man who rescued my wayward sister.” “Jerin, my son, let her go. We will all go on together. Remember, I still am the king, not to mention her father. If anyone is going to have words with the young man, it will be I.” There it was, Jenna could recognize that tone, the king of the land was talking and she knew that for the time being, Simon would be spared the scrutiny of her brother. “Lead on, dear girl and let us meet your rescuer.” Jenna turned around and realized that Simon and her sister were not that far behind, and that Camille had gone and made herself scarce. She gazed upon his handsome face, and felt flush, as she remembered their last kiss. She could feel her face redden, and tried to think of something else. “Simon, I’m sorry to have left you.” Simon smiled, this was the perfect opportunity to tease her, but decided that he liked living and did not want to cross her father or brother. Especially since her father was wearing a crown. “Do not worry about it. I know that your family was glad to have you safe at home.” “Indeed we are. I am King Grelas and as I understand it, I am to offer you my thanks for saving my daughter, Princess Jenna. I would like to offer you a place to stay for awhile. If there is anything else you require I am sure we can provide it for you. The life of my daughter is precious; I 37
Rachel Reeves would be lost without her.” Simon was awed by this speech and a little taken aback with the realization that his little nymph was actually an elfin princess. “Your Majesty, I thank you for your kindness, but all I require is a night’s rest, and to replenish my provisions.” Jerin approved of his response, and thought to himself that this Simon character may not be as bad as he originally thought, although he still didn’t want his little sis to be around him. He’d noticed the smile on Simon’s face when Jenna neared. He hadn’t missed her redden at the sight of him. Why couldn’t he have had brothers? “Come walk with us. I’ll have Geresin take your horse to the stables.” Grelas positioned himself between his daughter and this man. He hoped nothing had transpired between them and was instantly glad that there’d been a dragon keeping watch over her. “Might I inquire, Simon, why you are traveling in the mountains alone? It seems a bit odd.” After the last epidemic with the dragons, the last thing King Grelas wanted was for something else to occur. “A fair question, Your Majesty. I have been on a search for a girl from my village. She was a great friend of mine and has disappeared without a trace. There were some footsteps outside her cottage but that was all.” Simon wasn’t sure if it was the sun or if he saw a gleam in the king’s eyes. “How long ago did this happen?” Grelas had his suspicions that it was their very own, Tani, that Simon was looking for. This should prove interesting. “It has been a few weeks. I cannot be exactly sure of when. She lived on the outskirts of town and it seems she had been gone a few days before anyone noticed. I have been traveling for over a week, searching for her.” There it was again, 38
Dragon Rescue Simon was sure the king knew something, but what could he possibly know about Tani? “Maybe I shall send out some scouts with you and together we can find this friend of yours.” “Simon, if she was a good friend of yours, why was it that it took a few days before anyone noticed she was not around?” Jerin was very curious to find out this answer, he would know instantly if his friend, Thomas, had gone missing. “It was as I said; she lived on the outskirts of town and kept to herself. We were childhood friends, but grew apart as we became older. Yes, Your Majesty, I would greatly appreciate and accept all the help you are willing to provide.” As they walked back to the palace, King Grelas, his eyes alight with mischief, was anxious to know exactly how his daughter had needed rescuing. “Excellent. Now why don’t you entertain us with the tale of my daughter’s grand rescue…” **** Mayghen sat alone in her room, she was glad to hear the news of Jenna making it home safe. She would have to keep a better watch on her next time. Who would have thought that she would actually take off on the back of a dragon with no escort? But that was not her main worry now. Her father had ordered her to steal a dragon’s egg—not that she much cared about the dragons, mainly because of Lanthu’s obsession with them, but she did not want to hurt them either. “Mother, what should I do? No matter where I go, he is there, taunting me.” Mayghen often talked to her mother, especially in times of need. In her eyes, her mother was an angel, especially after all she’d endured while living with Lanthu for all of those years. If it wasn’t for her, Mayghen feared she would end up like her father. Time was running short, she needed to decide what her fate would be, either she would be 39
Rachel Reeves exposed for what she had done, or she would commit another act against the family that she had grown to love.
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Chapter Five It was Camille’s turn to get scolded. Not only did she hear it from Skie, but Solaris had decided to join in as well for a bit. As if either one of them had any room to talk. They were always getting into mischief themselves. “Camille!” Skie exclaimed. “How could you be so careless with the princess? Of all the things, going off on a jaunt without even a harness to keep her in place.” “We were doing just fine until it came time to land. It was harmless really, and she landed in the water.” “That’s not the point now is it? She could have been injured badly, just think how you would have felt if she had not been saved. Think of what Jerin would have done to you.” Camille shuttered at the thought of Jerin furious with her. That would not be good. “Well, I did keep her safe afterwards. She and that human took every opportunity to sneak in a kiss.” “They what? How could you allow that to happen?” “Trust me, it was not easy to keep them apart, but I managed, and they only kissed. I almost had him for a snack, but Jenna would not let me.” “Well then, you are forgiven, just as long as it was only a kiss. I’m not entirely sure I like him.” “He is trustworthy on all other accounts. He is looking for a friend of his, and I can sense that he is quite worried about her.” Solaris looked at them going back and forth; he was glad he did not have to worry about his 41
Rachel Reeves human as much as these two fretted about Jerin and Jenna. He lay his head back down and tried to get some rest. It had been a mad dash home when the news came of the princess’s absence. **** Simon was enthralled with the beauty of this place. It was like he’d entered another world, with its gates hidden in the mountainside. The architecture was elegant—designed to give the look of luxury without ruining the mountain’s integrity. They were close to the palace now, everyone they passed stopped to take a look at the small group walking down the street. News had traveled fast and they were curious as to who the man really was. He was met with both smiles and scowls, and even some surprised looks. “Here we are. This is our home; you are welcome to it as long as you need.” King Grelas wondered how long that would be. He would visit his daughter later and have a private chat with her. “Many thanks, Your Majesty. I hope to be on my way soon, so as not to inconvenience you too much.” Simon was anxious to return to his search, but he also wanted to find out more about Jenna’s little adventure this morning, before he left. He thought it strange that Jenna had not mentioned more about what had happened. One thing was certain—he was not going to leave until she told him everything. “I will have Geresin show you to a guest room, for you to refresh yourself, and then later, we will discuss how to find your friend.” Simon nodded his head in gratitude. He was anticipating a bath and a soft bed. “I appreciate everything you are doing for me.” Jenna watched as Geresin lead Simon away. With him out of the way, she was dreading what her father and Jerin were going to do with her now. “I’ll just be going to my chambers. I could 42
Dragon Rescue really use a fresh bath and a nap, too.” She tried her best to slip out and down the hall. “Not so fast, young lady. Now that we are alone, I want to know more about this adventure of yours. How about I escort you back to your room?” “I’ll come with you.” There was no way Jerin was going to miss this. “Why don’t you go tend to your wife? She’s been ill all morning and I believe she may be in for a bit of excitement later on.” Jerin opened his mouth to reply and thought better of it. What had his father meant by that last part of his statement? He had that mischievous gleam in his eyes, and Jerin wasn’t too sure he liked that. Yet, off he went, leaving his dear little sister to deal with their father. “Am I to be dismissed as well?” Juliene asked. She’d stood in the background for far too long, and knew that Grelas would not turn her away. “No, my child, how can I resist a request from you? You, at least, have not given me any reason for concern.” He looked pointedly at Jenna. “For you, Juliene, have always been the sweet one, that doesn’t get into trouble unless someone else gets you into it.” “That’s not fair; I have never forced her on one of my jaunts.” Jenna pouted a little for dramatic effect. “Come, girls. Let us return to your rooms so we can get this over with.” Grelas sighed. They were getting too old for this speech. He would have to come up with a new one. One by one, they filed into Jenna’s room. The girls sat on the bed while Grelas sat on the chair opposite them. He looked at his little girls, they looked so much like their mother, one was as sweet as her and the other…was just like him. What was he going to do with her? “Jenna…can you give me one good reason why I shouldn’t confine you to 43
Rachel Reeves these walls? I thought you had room enough to spare being able to go freely throughout the village.” “Father, I…” “I’m not finished, I thought my lecturing days were coming to a close with you girls growing up…but here I am, yet again, trying to talk sense into you. I’m not sure what to do with you. For now, you are not allowed anywhere without an escort…someone that is not your sister.” “That’s not fair, I’m a grown woman!” “Not fair! You went gallivanting off on the back of a dragon and almost got killed! Either you will have Mayghen with you or you will not be allowed to leave the palace.” “Mayghen…but she…” Jenna remembered that morning all too well. She needed to speak with her…to find out about what exactly she had overheard. “She what?” King Grelas did not like the way Jenna had reacted, there was something in her voice, and in her eyes when he mentioned Mayghen. He would need to find out what it was. “It’s nothing…I just don’t know how she would be able to care for Juliene and keep tabs on me.” Jenna needed to reign herself in. No one, not even Juliene could know about this. “She has done well enough until now. Who do you think reports to me on your behavior?” That was not news to Jenna; she knew that Mayghen told her father everything. She really needed to find her “guard” and have that little chat with her as soon as this was over. “Jenna, are you listening to me?” “Yes, I am, Mayghen will follow me wherever I go, and all that good stuff.” “This is not a jest, young lady. If you can’t be reigned in, then I might just have to find a husband for you.” 44
Dragon Rescue “What?” “You heard me. I am tired of having to keep track of you. Maybe it is time for someone else to take over. If you had children of your own, maybe you would settle down yourself.” “Father, I promise to try and not worry you. I’m not ready to marry anyone.” “Well then, I suggest you keep your promise to not get into trouble.” King Grelas rose and headed towards the door. “I will see the two of you at dinner tonight, and both at the same time.” He looked at Juliene when he spoke those last words. Juliene groaned; she did not need to be reminded of last night’s fiasco, though Thomas got a good laugh out of seeing her try to pretend to be her sister. Not to mention how sick she felt with all of the food she ate. “Yes, Father.” “What is he talking about?” Jenna’s eyebrows shot upwards as she looked at her sister. “I tried to cover for you at dinner last night. Let it be known that I will never, ever try that again.” Laughing, Jenna couldn’t quite picture her sister covering for her in that manner. Hugging her tight, she thanked her. “Juliene, you really are too good to be true.” “I have my own wild streak; I just have to tame it with you around. I don’t think that father would be able to handle two of us acting like you. Besides, I don’t want him to try and marry me off any time soon.” “Ugh, don’t remind me.” The sisters sat next to each other, trying to figure out exactly who their father thought he would marry her off to. They both came to the conclusion that the pickings were slim and they would be in for trouble if it came to pass. By that time, Juliene left Jenna alone, so she could rest before dinner. 45
Rachel Reeves **** Simon and Geresin continued down the hall only a short way when Geresin suddenly stopped. “Here we are sir, our finest guest room.” He opened the door led Simon into a luxurious room. A bath waited for him and fresh clothes lay on the bed. Quickly thanking Geresin for helping him, he closed the door, placed his bags in the corner, stripped his clothes off and slipped into the bath. Now this is heaven. The bath was so refreshing that Simon stayed in until the water turned cold. Ignoring the new clothes, he chose to climb straight in bed after and rest. It had been far too long since he had lain in a bed and he was not going to deprive himself of it one second more. Soon he was in a deep sleep and did not hear the moaning creak as a hidden door inside one wall opened. There were a few things Jenna wanted to accomplish before dinner. One was to find Mayghen and discuss what she had overheard this morning, and the other was to see Simon again. She chose to visit Simon first. She slinked along the small passageway towards the guest rooms. Peering through the spy holes, Jenna finally discovered the correct room. As quietly as she could, she made her way through the door, which hadn’t been used often and proved a little difficult to maneuver, but she managed to create an opening large enough for her to squeeze inside. There he lay…curled up under the blankets and gently snoring. She could definitely get used to that sight; he was everything she hadn’t even known she was looking for. This was the man who had stolen her heart and he would be leaving soon, most likely tomorrow. Jenna made her way to his side, and sat on the edge of the bed. She ran her fingers through his chestnut hair, and bent to place a kiss on his forehead. Her other hand ventured to his chest where she gently caressed it. 46
Dragon Rescue She felt him shift and hoped that he remained asleep so she could make her exit without him realizing that she had come; worse, that she was here caressing him while he slept—knowing full well how upset she would be if it’d been the other way around. She chanced a look down, his eyes were still closed, but his body seemed to be on alert. She needed to get out of here, this was not a good idea. Commanding her hands to stop touching him, she slowly stood up, only to be pulled back down again by two strong arms. “You didn’t think you could get away that quickly?” Landing on his hard body kept her from replying. “What darling, speechless?” “I’m just not used to being grabbed by men.” “I should hope not, my sweet. I have missed holding you close.” Simon maneuvered their bodies so that they were facing one another. He could see the excitement and a little fear in her emerald eyes before he pulled her face to his and gently kissed her lips. Kissing this little princess had his body alight with fire. He traced the outline of her lips, begging her without words to open them and let him through. He could feel her hands on his chest, searing his skin where they lay. Simon kissed his way to her neck, wishing he had the nerve to go lower. “Simon, why do you affect me so?” Jenna was lost in his kisses, she felt like she was melting and fading away. Was this how it was for everyone? She did not have an answer. All she knew was that she wanted to be as close to Simon as possible. He moved his lips back to hers; she parted them and let him in. He rested her body with one arm while the other drove her insane with its circular pattern on her back. Her hands roamed towards his back and it was then that she realized he did not have a stitch of clothing on. Together they plunged into a world where only 47
Rachel Reeves they existed, until a knock on the door pulled them back to reality. “Excuse me sir, but King Grelas asked if I would bring you to dinner.” Trying to gather his thoughts, Simon remembered his nakedness and furthermore, the fact that he had the king’s daughter in his bed. He felt like the worst kind of scoundrel. “Umm…yes, Geresin? I…” “Is everything all right, sir?” “Yes, fine. I had just fallen asleep and I’m not quite ready yet.” Simon whispered in Jenna’s ear, “Can you get out of here without being seen?” “Yes, there is a hidden door over there that I came through.” With a quick kiss to his cheek, Jenna fixed her clothing and slipped through the door, pulling it shut as quickly as it would let her. “Do you require assistance, sir?” “No!” He almost shouted as the door handle started to wiggle. “I will be fine, just give me a few moments and I will be ready.” “As you wish, sir.” It did not take Simon long to dress into the clothing that had been left for him, and soon he was accompanied by Geresin down to the dining hall. As they rounded a corner, they went through a door with golden carvings of the mountains and dragons. King Grelas was standing in the far corner, waiting for them. “Thank you, Geresin, for bringing Simon to me.” He moved towards them and gestured for Simon to sit down. “Come, have a seat. I have asked my new daughter to meet with you before dinner.” Simon looked confused at this, trying to discern why he would need to meet the king’s daughter-in-law. “Sir, I would be happy to meet her, but why does it need to be done before dinner?” Grelas smiled his all-knowing wicked smile 48
Dragon Rescue that only his children knew how to read and replied, “Well, you see Simon, she is not from around here and I thought that she might be able to help you in your search for your friend.” “That would be excellent. I thank you again for the hospitality you have extended to me.” Simon was about to say more, when two voices could be heard coming from outside the door, “Jerin, just go. Your father asked for me, not you, to join him.” “I just don’t like it; you know how he can be, with his mysterious ways at times.” “Don’t worry about it, and don’t give me that look either.” Tani turned on her heel and pulled the door open. There she could see King Grelas talking to another gentleman. She decided that it must be the man that Jenna had brought with her. She had felt ill that morning and was unable to join the mob when they had arrived home. “So, Father, I am here, what is—” Tani stopped short. The two men became silent and turned towards her. She couldn’t believe her eyes. The man standing next to the king looked like her old friend, Simon. Simon stared at the flame-haired beauty that had stepped into the room; it was her! Tani stood before him, looking as dumbfounded as he felt. Laughter filled the room; King Grelas had once again amused himself. He was sure that Simon had come looking for his Tani. The timing was right and they were from the same area. Recovered from his brief moment of paralysis, Simon crushed Tani into his arms. “I have been so very worried about you. No one knew where you had gone and left it to me to find you. I should throttle you right now.” “No one but me will be throttling my wife.” Jerin had heard his father’s laughter and entered the room to find his wife in another man’s arms. 49
Rachel Reeves The same man who couldn’t keep his eyes off his baby sister. He crossed the room to take his wife back into his embrace and to find out exactly why she had tears in her eyes. “Oh shush, you big brute. This is Simon. We have been friends since we were young.” Jerin’s grip on Tani became tighter and she nearly said something about it, but it was quite endearing to have him be so protective of her. “I meant no disrespect. I am just relieved to see that she is safe. Now I can return home and give the villagers the good news.” Jenna had walked in with Juliene at that moment. Return home, why was he going to go back home so quickly? What had her father spoken to him about? “Return? But what about the missing girl?” Turning towards the voice, Simon was once again speechless, her beauty could not surpass this night. One look at Jenna and his heart flipped over, he wanted to rush to her and pull her close to him, like Jerin held Tani. She noticed the way he was looking at her, but that did not erase the fact that he was leaving so quickly, she needed to find a way to keep him near. “Well?” Simon crossed the room until he was a few feet away from Jenna. “May I present to you, Tani. She is my childhood friend, the one who has gone missing and now is found. I have your father to thank for this.” “Tani, she was the one you sought?” “Yes, and now that she is found, I need to return home.” He could see the sadness in her eyes, and he wished that there was a way to stay forever. He wanted to hold this dark beauty for all eternity. “I guess you must, will you leave on the morrow or stay for a few days?” 50
Dragon Rescue “I should leave as soon as possible, the journey is long.” “I do believe that we could shorten the trip up,” Jerin interjected. “One of our dragons could bring you home.” “But what of Steel? I will not leave my steed behind.” “I had forgotten about him. I’m quite certain that we could figure something out. Why don’t you stay at least one more day?” “I shall be glad to accept your offer.” Jenna let out a breath of relief; she had another day with him, now she just needed to figure out how to keep him here. “We have much to celebrate.” King Grelas lifted his goblet and gestured for them to each take one from the table. “Here is to finding things we had lost.” He chuckled at his own toast, and heard the groans of his children around him. Juliene had entered the room and they were ready to begin their dinner celebration.
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Chapter Six Mayghen sat in her chambers, thinking about her life. This is where she wanted to be, and she did not care if she had noble blood or not. The life she had built here was much better than the one she had known before. Mayghen had been all but a slave in her father’s miserable household. She’d taken care of her sick mother until the day she died. Lanthu took every opportunity since then to make life unbearable and now it looked as if she’d have to help him once more. She hoped that it would be the last time she would have to see him. Mayghen knew what she was about to do was wrong. What else could she do? If Jenna and the others found out that she had helped make the dragons sick she would be dismissed or worse. All she had to do was to steal an egg and bring it to her father. She’d leave once she completed her evening duties, and would ask one of the other maids to help with Jenna and Juliene. That would give her some extra time to get the deed done. The dragons were used to her now and shouldn’t be alarmed by her presence. There was a nest that should be easy to get to. “Well,” she said aloud to herself. “I’d better get to working.” When she finished, she could still hear the music from dinner. King Grelas was known among his people to let dinner turn into a full out and out celebration when there was cause. Judging from the sounds of things, they should be quite busy for hours yet. She decided that this was as good a time as any and went back to her room to grab her traveling cloak. It was going to be a chilly night 52
Dragon Rescue and she needed something to cover the egg. She casually walked down the hall, heading towards the cave some dragons used throughout the year. Many of them lived in caves around the mountain, but a select few chose to live near the elves. As much as she wanted to saddle Mary first, she felt that it would draw more attention if she took the horse up to the dragon’s cave. Not completely watching where she was going, Mayghen bumped into another servant. “Oh, sorry. I did not see you.” It was bad enough that she had been seen wandering the halls, but she had the misfortune to run into Geresin, the king’s favorite guard. He was handsome that was for sure, in fact, most of the servant girls were in love with him. Mayghen had even been known to turn her eyes towards him on occasion. “It’s okay miss, I should have been looking where I was going. So much has happened today, I suppose I was lost in my thoughts.” Geresin looked down at Mayghen and recognized her as the maid that looked after the twins. She sure did have her work cut out for her, Jenna alone was a handful. “So what mission do the girls have you on tonight or are you just trying to escape for a bit of privacy?” It was hard to resist that melodic voice of his. Not to mention his deep blue eyes. Mayghen looked into them and instantly felt guilty for what she was about to do. But if she didn’t, she wouldn’t see those eyes look upon her again like they were now. Though the words were not spoken, his eyes were full of mischief. “I…I was on an errand for Jenna. She wanted me to check in on Camille.” “How delightful. Would you allow me to escort you?” Mayghen did not like the gleam that she saw in Geresin’s eyes, but she would be a fool to not let him follow her. She would do as she’d said, check 53
Rachel Reeves up on Camille and then stay with the dragons and hope that Geresin would leave her there. “That would be lovely, thank you.” Geresin offered her his arm and she shyly accepted. This was not good. She couldn’t get off task now. She should have just told him that she would be fine. “Are you often sent on these types of errands?” “Sometimes, though I usually spend my time trying to find Princess Jenna. She is a lively one, and I wish I had her spirit.” “Not many can match the spirit of Jenna, and I would say she has a bit too much.” They continued up to the caves, taking a bit longer than Mayghen would have hoped. Lanthu would be waiting for her, and the longer she took would mean more insults from her father. When they reached her destination, she slowly let go of his arm. Her touch was so gentle, that he barely noticed that he did not have a hold of her. She was very fair in looks. When one looked upon her, they surely must think of a gentle angel; she had golden curls, and pale blue eyes. Geresin wished he could stay with her until her errand was over, but he was on his way to give the daily report to the king. He shouldn’t have taken the time to escort Mayghen here. “Well…we have reached your destination. It was a pleasure to walk with you.” “For me, as well.” Mayghen chanced a look into his eyes. They really did take her breath away. Before she could slip away, Geresin grabbed her hand and lifted it to his lips. He bid her farewell then turned and walked away. Mayghen brought her hand to her cheek and stared off in the direction that Geresin had gone. She hoped that she would have the chance to be near him again. Sighing to herself, Mayghen turned around and walked over to the dragons. She recognized Camille, Skie, and Solaris, but she did not know the names of the two other dragons. She knelt 54
Dragon Rescue down by Camille and stroked her snout. She’d never felt the desire to get close to dragons. She had seen first hand how miserable they could be when they were not with others, or loved as every being should be. Lanthu could not bond with Dru, and so kept the poor dragon chained in a cave. She wished there was a way to save him, and now this egg, that would soon likely suffer the same fate. With one final pat on the snout, Mayghen rose and walked to the next hallow where the nest was. It was eerily silent as she made her way to the nest. There were only three eggs, she bent down and took the smallest of the bunch. She took care to cradle it under her cloak, so that she could leave the cave without drawing attention to herself. With one last look at the nest, Mayghen backed into the main portion of the cave. She did not look at the other dragons as she continued out the mouth of the cave. It was a long, but uneventful walk to the stables. She laid the egg down in a pile of hay, then went to put a saddle and bridle on Mary. The silence of the night was making her nervous…she almost hoped that someone would pass by. Mayghen once again picked up the egg, mounted her horse and headed out to the rendezvous point to meet with Lanthu. **** Dinner was in full swing, many had come to help the king celebrate the return of his daughter. A small band of musicians were playing lively tunes so the young couples, and the young at heart, could dance. Jerin and Tani had already moved to the dance floor and he was teaching her some of their traditional dances. Jenna looked at them dreamingly and sighed. That is what she wanted for herself, to marry for love. Not to be forced by someone her father would choose for her. She wanted someone like Simon. He was so tall, and she loved his soft chestnut hair 55
Rachel Reeves and matching eyes. They could laugh with one another, and yet she knew he would protect her from anything. He also seemed to understand her need to get out and explore. Maybe they could do that one day. Jenna sat there fantasizing about being married to Simon and what their life would be like. She even thought it would be cute if they had twin boys that looked just like him. Wouldn’t that be fun, she just hoped they didn’t act like her. Simon followed Jenna’s gaze over to Jerin and Tani, wondering why she focused so intently on the couple, especially with that funny smile. They were both still sitting across from each other, even though all the food had been cleared from their places. He took the time to study her features. This was a different Jenna from the one he had spent a day with on the mountainside. She was elegant and regal, there were no wild strands of hair; instead it was all piled high on her head. She was every inch an elfin princess. “Would you give me the honor of this dance?” His voice entered her thoughts but it took a moment before she realized that he was actually speaking to her. Composing herself, Jenna looked towards the real Simon and not the one she was imagining. “I would love to.” He stood up, walked over to her and offered his arm. Simon hoped that he didn’t step on her feet, he couldn’t dance all that well, but he longed to hold her again. As they strolled to the dance area the music slowed down to a soft sweet tune. Jenna recognized her mother’s favorite melody and tears formed in her eyes. “What’s wrong, my sweet, why do you look so sad?” She looked up and saw that he truly seemed concerned about her. She almost felt silly that it was because of the music that they were now dancing to. 56
Dragon Rescue “This song, it was my mother’s favorite. I am told that it was while they were dancing to it that she and my father fell in love. It’s actually a funny story really.” “Oh?” Simon raised his eyebrows in an amused question. “My father had been stuck dancing with one girl all evening, she wouldn’t leave him alone. She didn’t love him; she just wanted to be queen. So the story goes that my mother had been dancing with one of my father’s friends. Together they dreamed up a scheme to bump into the other couple and they would switch partners. It was to this song that my father first set eyes upon my mother, and from then on they were inseparable. And if you look across the room over there you will see my father’s friend, Avery, and his wife, Vena. It turned out that Avery wanted Vena as much as she thought she wanted to be queen.” She looked back to Simon, very aware of his hand around her waist. This song was full of memories, happy and sad. Jenna rested her head upon his chest, not caring what others might think of it. The couple did not go unnoticed, while Tani was smiling at seeing her friend dance with her new sister, Jerin wanted to go pull them apart. His sisters’ may be grown, but Jerin was not prepared to see them fall in love. He tried to glide Tani closer so they could hear what Jenna was telling Simon, but to no avail. Tani, was always able to lead them away. Juliene had also noticed them while she was twirling around on the dance floor with one of the many elfin men that surrounded her. She daydreamed that she would one day find the happiness that her siblings had and wished that she was dancing with him now. While his children were preoccupied with 57
Rachel Reeves dancing, King Grelas decided that it was time for him to take his leave. Memories flooded back with the first notes of the melody which never failed to bring tears to his eyes. It was fun for him to be around his family, especially during good times, but as of late, he preferred to sit alone in the garden, thinking of his departed wife. She was a beautiful elf, who was kind to everyone, and best of all, she played along with his antics. From the moment she landed into his arms, he realized that there would never be anyone else. Grelas looked at his reflection in the water and imagined that she was there next to him. **** Time had flown by for Jenna and now she was trying to figure out how to sneak out of the room so she could go find Mayghen before it was too late. She did not know when Mayghen would act, but she felt that it would be soon. The day had gone by so quickly that she didn’t have the chance to talk to her. She needed answers and she wasn’t going to get them here, especially since she was distracted by Simon. After a few dances, Jenna claimed that she was feeling a bit dizzy and wanted to sit down. She suggested that he go spend some time catching up with Tani. Thinking that her plan had worked perfectly, she took her opportunity to give them the slip. Jenna was about halfway down the hall when she felt a firm, but gentle, hand grab her arm. “I thought you were going to sit down and rest? You left without saying good night,” a familiar voice whispered into her ear. “I have some things I need to do before bed.” Simon twirled her around to face him, not letting her go. “What kind of things, maybe I could help?” He had a wicked grin on his face that was hard to resist. “Just a few small errands, I need to find my 58
Dragon Rescue maid, and then go check on Camille…that kind of stuff.” She tried to back up, but he held on. She’d looked a little nervous while she was trying to explain and it made him curious as to where she was really off to. He was also reminded of the events of that morning and hoped to find a time to find out what exactly had happened. “Jenna.” His tone held a serious note. “I wanted to talk to you about this morning.” Feigning innocence, Jenna replied, “Oh, you don’t have to worry about Camille. She won’t try that again.” He moved his head in a little closer. “I’m talking about what happened before that.” She blushed when she thought of what happened right before the scene with Camille. “If you are talking about the kiss, it was quite enjoyable.” “Yes, that it was, but I was thinking about what happened before I had to kiss you to calm you down. I want to know what you witnessed, and what you plan on doing about it. I don’t want you to get yourself into trouble.” She sobered up from thoughts of this man, and his hands and lips… She didn’t know how to keep him out of what she was trying to do. Men could be hasty about things and he might want to tell someone before she could talk to Mayghen. “It’s nothing…it’s why I need to speak with my maid. You see, she was out there with one of the servants, whose reputation isn’t the best, and I need to look out for her. So if you would be so kind as to let me go, I would like to find her.” Simon was no fool, he could tell she was not offering him a completely true answer on what she needed to talk to her maid about. She was a good liar, telling half-truths were safer than all out lies. 59
Rachel Reeves He didn’t doubt that she was going to find her maid, but he was certain it wasn’t because she was having a tryst with another servant. He would let her go, then follow her to make sure that she was safe. “All right, fine, you win Jenna. Go find your maid; I need to get ready for my journey anyway.” Jenna looked Simon in the eyes. “I will be fine. You don’t need to worry about me.” With that, she turned and walked away. Somewhat to her disappointment, he let her. When Jenna reached Mayghen’s empty room, she started to worry a little. “Just wait, she could be with Juliene or doing something else.” Saying these words out loud did not help the unsettling feelings which caroused her body. She needed to get up to the caves, and quickly. Unfortunately for her, it was not so easy trying to run in dinner dress and slippers. “Camille…can you hear me?” “Well, I was trying to get some rest while I could. Skie has been grumbling at me all day for the danger I put you in.” “I’m sorry for that. I need to know if anyone has been up there tonight.” “Just the normal, you know, Jerin and Tani visited Skie and Solaris, and Thomas with the new green, Viridian, I think is his name.” “No one else?” “Oh, and Mayghen came for a few moments. I haven’t seen her up here since Tani was taking care of us.” Jenna stopped in her tracks. She was too late; Mayghen had already come and gone. She needed to get up to Camille and go after her. If she was in time maybe they could get Lanthu, too. Her father would be happy to know who was behind the dragons getting sick. “Camille, I need you to get ready to fly, if we are quick, we should be able to catch up with her.” “What are you talking about now, Jenna?” 60
Dragon Rescue “It’s Mayghen, I think she has done something incredibly stupid.” “Still confused up here…” “Just be ready to go, if I tell you now it will just cause more delay.” “Fine, I will be waiting for you.” Simon noticed that something had changed in her. He had been trailing Jenna, trying to discover what kind of trouble she was getting herself into. She looked distressed and had that funny look on her face like when she talked to Camille. Something was up and he was going to make her tell him this time. Coming up behind her, so as to not disturb her, he waited until it seemed as if she was done with her conversation. “Jenna…” Jenna jumped at the sound of a voice speaking her name. “Who…?” “Jenna, turn around, it’s Simon, and this time I am not letting you leave without telling me what you are up to.” Turning around, she once more faced Simon. His eyes were intense and she could tell that he was genuinely worried about her. Time was running short, and he was trustworthy. Maybe she could use his help. “Fine, but we have to keep it quiet and we have to move now. It might even be too late.” “Too late for what?” “We need to catch up to Mayghen, she has stolen an egg from the dragons. Camille is waiting for me right now. If we hurry we should be able to intercept her.” “How did she leave?” “By horseback, I imagine, she wouldn’t be so stupid as to try and walk on foot.” Simon didn’t like the sound of trying to find someone on the ground from the air. He remembered Jenna’s first flight with Camille and they weren’t in a rush that time. 61
Rachel Reeves “Why don’t we send Camille out to scan the area and we’ll take Steel?” “We wouldn’t catch up with her.” “How did you expect to find her from the air? All you’d be able to see would be the trees.” “I know the spot she is going to, it’s where we took our last stop.” “And you think you could find that spot again from the air?” “I…” Jenna couldn’t answer that. Sure, she thought she could get near the spot and had hoped to find Mayghen before then. She had forgotten what the mountainside looked like from above. He was right—she wouldn’t spot her from Camille’s back. “Let’s go then, if we are going to find her before she gives that egg away we need to leave now.” “Lead the way, my lady.” While Simon followed Jenna to the stables, she called once more to her dragon. “Camille…change of plans, I’m going to go with Simon on horseback, and you are going to take to the skies. Let me know if you see anyone, you can guide us.” “I am on my way.” **** Juliene left not too long after Jenna had gone; sitting alone in her chambers, she was starting to get nervous again. Her sister was going to be the end of her. First, she snuck out of dinner, then Simon. Now there was no sign of either one of them. She hated to do it, but she wasn’t going to let her disappear again. If she went to Jerin, he would go crazy, and who knows what he would do to Simon. Maybe Geresin, he knew everything, or could find out easily enough. Clothed in only her nightdress and a light robe, she bounded out of her room, straight into Thomas. “Well, what do we have here, another little princess running off?” He 62
Dragon Rescue chuckled lightly, as he outstretched his hand to steady her. “May I be of assistance to you, or were you trying to sneak out and fly away as your sister had?” “Ugh, Thomas, it’s none of your business where I am off to.” He kept a teasing note to his voice. He was enjoying being alone with Juliene. She was quite the beauty, and men always surrounded her, so it was a rare occasion, indeed. “Feisty aren’t we? Did I hit a little too close to home?” She’d had enough of him, brother’s best friend or not, she would not sit here and let him insult her or her sister like that. “You’re not even close.” Her green eyes were shining with frustration. He always had to irritate her, never Jenna, just her. She did not understand it. “Now, if you would excuse me, I actually need to talk to Geresin and give him a message. I don’t suppose you have seen him?” Thomas felt pained; he was just teasing with her, couldn’t she tell? She was always polite to the others. Never to him…well, she was his best friend’s little sister, anyway. “Last I saw him he had just come from your father’s room. You might try the servants’ area.” He could feel the heat of her body seeping through the delicate nightclothes and reluctantly, he let go. “Goodnight, little princess.” Juliene watched him leave. It was unfortunate that his attitude did not match the fineness of his body. She had always admired his looks, even as a young girl. She headed off to the servants’ quarters to try and find Geresin, and after a few moments, found him rushing off on another errand. “Geresin…wait.” Juliene sprinted after him. “I need to ask a favor of you.” “I’m a little hard pressed right now, Juliene, but what is it?” 63
Rachel Reeves “It’s my sister, I wanted to know if you had seen her, or could find her? She left after dinner and has not returned.” Geresin could see the worry written on her face, lucky for her, he was already sent to do so. “I would be glad to be of service, my lady. That is, in fact, what I am doing.” “But how?” “Well, to make a long story short. Not too long ago, your brother’s dragon told him that Camille had suddenly taken off, with no word of where she was going. When she told Jerin, he got suspicious and went to find her highness, Jenna; you can see where I am going with this. Needless to say, your brother is on his way to Skie, to catch up with Camille and I am to go to the stables to see if any of the horses are missing.” “Many thanks, who all knows about this?” “So far, Jerin, myself and now you.” “I hope you find her first; Simon has not been seen since dinner either.” “Thank you for that bit of information and I will do my best. Go now and rest highness, there is nothing more that you can do at this point.” “Thank you, Geresin.” Juliene turned and headed back to her room, hoping not to run into Thomas again. Once was enough for the evening… **** Mayghen cradled the egg as she rode. The longer she held it, the closer she felt to the little life that was inside. She imagined that it was a chestnut male, and the sweetest thing. She could see herself raising it and playing around, until it grew, though she got a bit nauseous thinking about soaring through the air on its back. Why was she thinking these thoughts? She didn’t hate the dragons, but she never thought of playing with one, let alone raising it as her own. Feeling a little bit lightheaded, she pulled on the reins for Mary to 64
Dragon Rescue stop and dismounted. Placing the egg down in a patch of grass, she knelt by a stream and splashed some cool water on her face. As the water ran down her face, it refreshed. Mayghen started to doubt herself and her reasons for giving into her father’s demands. The whole situation was wrong, the only reason she had the life she did was because her father had arranged it. She knew she was living a lie and did not want to end up bitter and alone like him. She needed to stand up to him and take control of her own life. “But how am I going to do that?” Mayghen looked over at the dragon egg and knew what she had to do.
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Chapter Seven Simon and Jenna were on the back of Steel, making steady progress through the trees, trying in earnest to get to Mayghen before she reached her father. Jenna had told him more about what she had overheard that morning. He felt pity for the girl and hoped that they could reach her before she handed the egg over. He knew she would be punished, but hopefully not too harshly. Fate could be cruel sometimes. He snuggled the beauty in his arms closer, knowing how hard it was going to be to leave his elfin princess on the morrow. She stilled in his arms and he knew she had word from Camille. “Jenna, it is a mess up here; Jerin is on Skie and they are catching up with me.” “Jerin and Skie? Did you tell anyone what was going on?” “No, I just left.” “Well, find out what they want and try to divert them from me.” “Consider it done.” Jenna sat up a little straighter, what in the world was her brother doing out here? “So, did she find anything out?” Simon’s deep voice helped to soothe some of her anxiety. Letting out a sigh, she let him know what Camille had said. “Well…Jerin and Skie are following Camille and she doesn’t know why.” “Unless someone overheard us, he probably thinks I am stealing you away.” Simon was very uneasy. He did not want to get on Jerin’s bad side. This made Jenna chuckle, it lightened the 66
Dragon Rescue mood and she liked the idea of being swept away by this handsome man. She could easily imagine this night was a romantic interlude where they were being chased by her family and were trying to get to safety so they could be together. “And what are you chuckling about?” Simon whispered, as he quickly nipped her ear. “I was thinking that wouldn’t be such a bad idea, being stolen away and all. You know, the beautiful elfin princess snatched by a wretched human.” “Wretched? I’m not wretched.” Laughing again, she scooted back into him. “I was just stating what might be said about you, since you did abscond with me.” “Stop flirting and keep your mind on task. I’ve talked to Skie.” “And?” “They are out looking for you, and really got worried when your human friend couldn’t be located either.” “His name is Simon, as you well know, and what did you tell them?” “I told them everything I know, which doesn’t account for much.” “Camille, stop being vague, I need to know what you told them. I want as few people to know about this as possible.” “All I told them was that Mayghen had gone missing, that it had something to do with the dragons and that you and Simon were down below on horseback trying to pick up her trail.” “You could have left out the dragon part, you know. All I need is for Prince Jerin to slay my maid because she made a very, very stupid mistake.” “Jenna, you know he wouldn’t do that. He would be angry, but not irrational. Tani has seen to that.” “I suppose you’re right. So what are they going 67
Rachel Reeves to do now?” “Help us find them of course, oh, and Jerin is quite unhappy with you. His expressions were priceless when Skie was telling him everything.” This night was definitely not going as planned. It was bad enough that she couldn’t talk to Mayghen before this happened, she still hadn’t found a way to stall Simon’s return more than just a day or two. “Oh and by the way, Geresin is riding like the wind to find you. It was also noticed that Steel was not in the stables.” Jenna groaned. If she had a place to bang her head on, she believed that she would. She figured she had finally gotten some adventure in her life, and what a mess it was. It was going to be interesting, trying to sort this one out with Jerin, and now Geresin. Not to mention that if Geresin was after her, then her father probably knew. She could hear the wedding bells now—she just didn’t want to imagine another groom but Simon. “Jenna, did you hear me?” “Jenna, I think we are heading in the right direction, look over there.” She was so lost in thought, that she almost forgot where she was, and then Camille and Simon broke her spell. “Huh?” “Over there, it seems as if someone has passed through here recently.” Jenna looked over to where Simon was pointing. She could see a trail off to their left. It was mostly overgrown with long grass and weeds. The trees hung low and if one wasn’t searching for it, it would easily be bypassed. A closer examination would show that it had been recently disturbed. “Well, we might as well try it. Any number of people could have traveled down the road we have taken.” 68
Dragon Rescue Jenna’s senses honed in on the task at hand. It was getting close to the time when they would find Mayghen. For even if they were too late, she was certain that Mayghen would go back to the palace. Remembering what she’d overheard, she would not willingly go with her father. Jenna wondered who he really was, and what he wanted with the dragons. She would have to ask Mayghen, hopefully before another epidemic started again. “Jenna, what am I supposed to do about Skie and Jerin?” Jenna could tell that Camille did not like the fact that she had company she didn’t know what to do with. “Just tell them to wait to hear from me. We think we have found the trail she followed. You could have them go find Geresin and send him away.” “You know as well as I, that Jerin is not going to tell Geresin to go away. You are just going to have to deal with him, when he reaches you.” “You can’t blame a girl for trying.” “Jenna, just find Mayghen. I don’t know what she did, but it must be bad if you won’t tell me.” “Don’t worry, Simon and I will find her.” **** Mayghen looked at her surroundings, trees were everywhere of course, and she was still on the mountain. Off to her left, just up the way, was where he would emerge from the cave. Then he’d go a short way down to the spot where they always met. She always tethered Mary up here, because she was a bit skittish around Lanthu. The next thing to do would be to hide the egg somewhere safe. It had to be far enough away from Mary, so it wouldn’t be crushed, but close enough that she didn’t lose it. Picking it up in her arms, she immediately felt connected to it—a strange feeling, almost as if someone shared her feelings, and could 69
Rachel Reeves hear her inner most thoughts. As she searched for the perfect spot, she wondered if this was what the prince and his wife felt when they communicated with their dragons. Only recently, apparently Jenna had connected with one herself. Mayghen was surrounded by a warm feeling and stopped walking. It felt as if she was covered with a soft blanket. This was a feeling she hadn’t felt since she had lost her mother. Looking down, she saw the perfect little hallow in the ground. She could place the dragon egg inside and cover it with leaves. It should be safe and it was between Mary and where she needed to go. “You’ll be safe little one. I’m sorry I ever took you away. I’ll get you home again, soon.” That being said, Mayghen stood up tall, and went to face Lanthu. It wasn’t long before his lanky form emerged from the cave. Most would consider him handsome, and in his youth, he was surrounded by elfin women. He was good at putting on the charm, but on the inside, he was cruel. His corruption only worsened when Dreanna had rejected him, for she had seen his cruelty first hand and wanted nothing to do with him. He stepped over a tree that had fallen and walked up to his daughter. “Well, what choice did you make?” Fear flooded her, the connection had been broken and she was alone once again. She couldn’t back down now. She needed to be strong, if not for herself, then for the dragons that had been hurt because of her. “I…I.” “You, what?” Planting her feet firmly into the ground, Mayghen looked up and into the eyes of her father, pulled courage from deep within, and replied, “I refuse to be a pawn in your game.” “Too late for that, my darling daughter,” Lanthu sneered at her. “You already are. I guess it is time to sacrifice you to the knight.” 70
Dragon Rescue “Knight…what are you talking about? You have gone completely mad.” Laughing out loud, Lanthu continued on with his banter. “You will soon find out daughter. Now, are you truly standing there, telling me that you did not bring me what I asked you to?” “I thought I made it apparent that I had not.” She hoped she sounded confident enough. Mayghen did not want him guessing that she had indeed brought the egg. He caught a little tremor in her voice, she wasn’t telling the truth. She had brought the egg. “Stop lying to me and yourself. Where did you hide it?” “Hi…hide what? I did not bring you anything.” His rage was visible now, not only was she not listening to him, but she had indeed brought him the egg and had decided not to give it to him. His features took on a red hue; he was not going to stay rational for long. “Look girl, I know you brought it. I raised you. I can tell when you are lying to me. Now give me that egg,” he roared. “Never. I will not give it to you.” Mayghen turned towards her horse and started to walk. This was the first time she had ever dared to turn away from her father. She was shaking on the inside, but she walked steadily up the hill. Lanthu just stood there for a moment, in shock; not only did she defy him, but she had given him her back. He was not going to let her get away with her actions. She would obey him or pay for her defiance. Anger had control over him now. He came up behind her and backhanded her head so hard that she crashed into a tree and fell to the ground. “I don’t need you anymore. I’ll soon find what you have hidden from me.” Lanthu raised his hand to his vest, withdrew a parchment, and dropped it near Mayghen’s body. “I did not expect that my own flesh and blood would betray me like 71
Rachel Reeves this. Now you will pay the price for making the wrong choice.” He didn’t look twice at her as he began to search the area for the dragon egg. Once or twice he thought he had gotten lucky, only to discover a boulder. He was blinded by anger and his need to find the egg. He tossed sticks and smaller rocks around, desperate to find it. While doing so, a shadow passed in front of the moon. Paying no attention to it, Lanthu continued his destructive search, until a second shadow passed. Coming to reality, Lanthu’s madness settled enough for him to realize that he needed to leave. If he were to be spotted here, then there would not be another chance to continue his plans. When all was silent a cracking sound was made and continued for a short time. A small crunching noise could be heard as the little brown dragon stepped from his egg. He slowly crawled out of the hollow and over the few feet towards Mayghen. A yawn escaped him as he curled up and rested his head upon her shoulder. Mayghen had come to enough to see a blurred brown shape before she went under again. **** The trees were a blur as he rushed down the road. Following the deep tracks made by a horse carrying a heaving load, Geresin hoped that he would find them in time before word got out. So far, only a few knew that Princess Jenna had disappeared along with the human, Simon. It was his duty to the king to find them and bring them back. He was fond of the princess and Simon didn’t seem to be too bad of a guy. Why would they leave like this? Geresin looked down at the ground to check the tracks and found that the one he had been following had dropped out at some point. Now he would have to waste precious time backtracking. 72
Dragon Rescue He turned his horse around and kept his eyes on the road, to determine at which point he had lost the trail. It did not take long for him to find the set that went off onto a smaller trail, half-concealed in the night. It was lucky for him that the moon shone bright in its fullness. Geresin nudged the honeytoned horse towards the new trail. He had to travel at a slower pace, but hoped that since he was only one rider, he would be able to overcome the two runaways before long. He went as fast as he could and still follow the tracks he had hoped belonged to the couple. Why would they venture off of the main path here? It would seem that if they were trying to escape without being found, they would actually try to hide their trail, and this trail certainly wouldn’t lead to sanctuary. Continuing down the path he thought he heard the hooves of another horse echoing off of the ground. It did not sound as if it was rushing forward, but neither was it going at a leisurely pace. Geresin sped up with the anticipation of completing his errand; then he could call it a night and get some rest before something else occurred. The night was creeping by, and Jenna was starting to wonder if they would ever find Mayghen. When the chase began, she was running purely on adrenaline, but now, it was wearing off and she swayed a little. A strong arm came around her waist and pulled her close. “Just close your eyes, I’ve got you. It shouldn’t be too long now.” “Simon…shouldn’t we have found her by now?” Jenna said in a worried voice. “We weren’t that far from home when I overheard her this morning.” “We haven’t been out as long as it seems. I am sure that we will discover our spot soon. Has there been any news from above?” “I’ll check.” Jenna closed her eyes and spoke to 73
Rachel Reeves Camille. “Camille…have you spotted anything yet?” “We thought we saw movement just ahead of you, but we need to land so Jerin can explore.” “Thanks girl, we’ll keep an eye out and let you know if we find her.” “Oh, and Geresin is catching up with you.” “Thanks for the heads up.” Jenna, opened her eyes again, it had been too hard to concentrate otherwise. She sat up then leaned forward, anxious once again with the knowledge that she was close. Simon wished he could hear the conversation between Jenna and Camille. That way he wouldn’t have to wait for her to give him the latest update on the situation. “You seem more awake. What did they find?” “Not much, Jerin and Skie thought they saw something, they will be landing so Jerin can get a closer look. She also said that it should not be very far from us. Oh, and Geresin should be—” “Halt! In the name of King Grelas, I order you to stop.” “Here.” She finished, just as Geresin came into sight. “Well, this should be interesting.” “Don’t count on it.” Simon replied. Geresin closed the distance that separated them. He was relieved that they had stopped, but he wondered what the king would do when they returned. Well, at least all seemed well with the princess, save that she was snuggled up next to the human on his steed. “By the command from His Majesty, King Grelas, I am sent to bring you both before him. Come with me now.” Geresin did not usually order others around, but he would when the situation required it. “Geresin, you do not understand.” “You are right, I do not.” Geresin dismounted, and walked towards the couple. “Your father is a 74
Dragon Rescue kind man. Jenna, he would never deny you your happiness, why would you steal away in the night? It is obvious by the way you two look at one another that there is something there, but this is not the way to explore whatever it is. Your family needs you, and vanishing is not the way to get what you want.” Jenna’s complexion got redder with every word that was said. Geresin kept talking about her family responsibilities and running away with Simon. She needed to let him know why she had left. “No. It’s not that. We—” “Jenna, it will be fine. Let us go.” Simon didn’t know what was with these elves. It was time to be blunt and clear up the situation. Dismounting, he looked Geresin square in the eyes, for they were both equally tall. “Yes, Jenna and I are here together, and it looks bad, but we are searching for her maid. And as much as I have enjoyed the time I have spent with the princess, I would never dishonor her, nor His Majesty, in such a way as you are thinking.” Geresin looked back and forth between Simon and Jenna. They seemed to be telling the truth, but what would Mayghen be doing out here? Had someone harmed her or was she just imitating her mistress? Simon could tell that Geresin was trying to come to terms with the information he was told. “Look man, we really need to keep searching. You are welcome to come along. In fact your help would be much appreciated.” “Yes, indeed. Lead the way.” Geresin remounted his horse and followed them down the trail. Not much further along, Jenna spotted a horse tethered to a tree just up the trail. She wasn’t too late, she thought. Mayghen was still here, that was a good sign, wasn’t it? Rather than waiting for 75
Rachel Reeves Simon to stop the horse, she swung her leg over and hopped off. As much as she wished to run, Jenna had to force herself to walk over towards the animal. “Jenna,” Simon whispered. “What are you doing?” Turning around, she pointed at the horse, brought her fingers to her lips to shush him, and continued walking down. She could sense him come up beside her and felt better that he was here. Jenna wished she had the time to get to know this man with whom she had crossed paths. By the time they had reached the horse, Geresin had caught up with them. The horse seemed a little uneasy and that worried Jenna. She headed down the trail, wishing for a sign that Mayghen was all right. Just down the trail, she noticed a faint glimmer in the moonlight. She headed down as quickly as she could. A shape was starting to form behind the glimmer. “No,” was all she said before she ran the rest of the way down the trail until she reached the tattered body of her maid. “Simon!” She cried out. “She’s here, I need help.” Instinctively, she put her hand to Mayghen’s slender neck to see if she was alive. Jenna heaved a sigh of relief that she’d felt a pulse and could see that she was breathing. “You stupid fool,” she said fondly. “Why did you have to leave, I would have helped you.” By that time, Simon and Geresin had reached her side; swearing under their breaths, they both knelt down. “Is she?” They asked in unison. “No, but she is knocked out. I think we need Jerin to come here quickly and bring her home. Maybe Tani can help her.” “Can you reach him?” Geresin asked. “Of course. Camille can tell Skie. Hold on, I’ll do it now.” “Camille, how far away is Jerin from us? We 76
Dragon Rescue need him and Skie as quickly as possible.” “He should be near, he and Skie landed awhile back. Give me a few moments to talk to Skie and guide them to you.” Jenna gave Camille a visual of where they were so Jerin would be able to find them. With luck, they could get Mayghen home, and she could help them find the monster who had done this to her. She absently stroked the maid’s hair, trying to comfort herself and to let Mayghen know that help would soon arrive. For once in his life, Geresin felt helpless. He hated waiting for someone else to get there before anything else could be done. He had just started to get to know the girl that now lay before him. She was beautiful; he vowed that he would find out who the cause of this was and he would pay. While he studied her, he noticed a small parchment lying on the ground not far from Mayghen. He reached down and placed it in his pocket for safekeeping. It could prove to be useful in sorting out this strange event. Geresin heard a noise in the distance. It had to be Jerin, whoever had done this would not hang around when there were dragons and people about. “Ho there. Jerin, is that you?” “Yes, you fool.” Coming in to view, Jerin walked over to the others. “Skie is just over there. It was hard finding a place to land, but we did it. Now, let us get this girl home.” “Be careful, we do not know the extent of her injuries. Geresin, you take her head. I’ll lift her feet, and Jerin you take the middle.” Simon stated. “Sounds like a plan, let’s do it,” Jerin said. Jenna moved out of the way and watched as the two elves and the man gathered up her maid and began walking out of sight. She was starting to blame herself for not going to talk to Mayghen as soon as she could. She should have known something was wrong when she did not come to 77
Rachel Reeves help them ready for supper. Mayghen was always there, she was the reason that most of her plans fell through. She had hope that her newest sister could help her, and then she could avenge her own personal bane. Deep in thought and guilt, Jenna did not notice the small creature that had crept out of a bush behind the tree. It walked slowly over to her, trying to decide whether or not she could be trusted. He sensed out to her, but did not receive a response. Continuing forward, he was almost to her, and still she had not moved. Touching his snout to her leg, he waited to see what she would do next. “What in the world?” Jenna looked down to see the tiniest brown dragon. It took her a few moments to realize what this meant. Not only was the egg, now dragon, safe. Mayghen had not given it up, and paid a price for it as well. Gathering the little scaly body in her arms, she realized that if the truth got out, she could defend Mayghen, with the life of this little dragon. “You are a cute one. It is no wonder she couldn’t give you up.” Standing up, Jenna headed in the direction that the men had gone. “If it wasn’t for my sweet Camille, I would try to bond with you.” The little dragon in her arms started cooing and it made Jenna laugh for the first time in hours.
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Chapter Eight It was not long before she reached the spot where Camille and Skie had landed. Jerin had mounted Skie and Mayghen was then placed in front of him. It would be a difficult ride, but they should be able to reach the palace shortly. “Camille, we have a little one. He was not far from where we found Mayghen.” She hoped that Camille wouldn’t go into a rage, once she realized why the baby dragon was out here. “A little one? Out here? Why?” It didn’t take Camille long to puzzle it out on her own. That must have been why Jenna was in such a hurry to find Mayghen. Somehow she knew that she would take an egg. “Why didn’t you tell me? I would have gotten all the dragons to help find this little baby. Skie must be told. She would not want to carry an egg stealer on her back.” “No! Camille, wait. It was not all her fault, she was blackmailed into it.” “That is no excuse. She betrayed you and the dragons with this act.” “Camille, please. I’m begging you, don’t tell anyone.” “Why?” “Just trust me. I have my reasons.” “Only if you promise that she will no longer cause problems amongst my family. I will personally eat her if she tries anything else.” Jenna hated to agree to that, but from what she had discovered tonight, she was pretty sure Mayghen was not going to be influenced by that 79
Rachel Reeves man again. “Deal.” Simon watched Jenna as she “talked” with Camille, she had a bundle in her arms that was wiggling around, and he soon saw a little dragon head peek over her shoulder. It was a cute little thing, but those teeth still looked razor sharp. How did the elves form such a bond with them? He would have to remember to ask Jenna that question later. “You know we are going to have to get Steel and the other horse back soon, but they will need a rest first. So is this what we were looking for? Where did you find it?” Simon walked over to Jenna and touched a finger to the snout of the dragon. “I think it is, and he came up to me when you, Geresin, and Jerin left with Mayghen. Can you imagine being all alone when you are hatched and not knowing what is going to happen to you?” She looked like a mother with the dragon tucked away. She seemed completely at ease with the hatchling and for a moment, Simon pictured her with a babe in her arms. He thought that she would make a wonderful mother. Then his heart fell, it would never be with him. She was an elfin princess and he was just an ordinary man. “Simon?” “Oh, sorry. I was just thinking.” “About what?” “The little dragon being alone out here, just like you said. We really should bring him back to the others.” “Yes, I just don’t want to be the one to explain to the others how the egg, now hatchling, made it out here. Not to mention, keeping Camille quiet about the truth.” “How much does she know?” “Enough, though she has agreed to keep him a secret for now.” Even though Geresin could see the weariness 80
Dragon Rescue in the couple, there were also stars. He was not about to let them ride off into the sunset together, leaving him to tell King Grelas that he had left them alone with each other. “I have an idea,” he said, with a bit of authority in his tone. “Jenna, you should ride Camille home.” He turned to look at Simon and said, “We’ll ride back and tow the extra horse. I also think the umber dragon will be safer on horseback than an unsaddled dragon.” Neither Jenna nor Simon disagreed with this plan, as Geresin sounded like he meant business, and truthfully they were all a tired lot. Jenna was glad that once she made it home, she could float down into her bed and sleep for as long as she pleased. She mounted Camille and settled herself the best she could. She took one last look at Simon and Geresin, before she was lifted into the air. This time, she did not enjoy the thrill of soaring through the air. She was too busy trying to stay awake. As they neared the palace, the sun was creeping over the peaks. It had been a long night, but at least it was over. Camille landed in the courtyard and when Jenna dismounted, she took off and went to the nook set aside for the dragons. Jenna went to her room in a daze. Once she reached her quarters, she fell upon her bed and was immediately asleep. **** Man and elf rode in silence, side by side; they both knew that it would be into the late morning hours before they reached the palace. Simon had been delayed another day from his trip home, and it would seem that he was honor bound to stay until the dragons were safe. Eventually, he would need to return home, if only to let the others know that Tani and himself were safe. His thoughts were interrupted when Geresin asked him a question that matched what he was thinking. “So what will you do now? Will you stay and 81
Rachel Reeves help us, like we were willing to do for you, or will you return home on the morrow?” Wishing that the elf he rode next to had a little more trust in him than his question suggested, Simon nodded and replied, “I suppose that is a fair question. I had hoped to return home as soon as possible to deliver the news. But, I also feel that I can not leave when my services could be better used here, than elsewhere.” Geresin was satisfied with this answer, he would have no respect for the man if he left when there was still a monster to catch. For whoever could have done that to a woman was most certainly that. Geresin instinctively held the little dragon closer to him, and thought of Mayghen. There were no more words spoken between them, and they were left to their own thoughts as they continued the trek home. It was nearly noon before Jenna woke, someone was sitting on her bed and she was pretty sure she knew who it was. She opened her eyes expecting to see her twin. Instead, it was her father. He looked old and tired and she felt guilty for running off yet again, although this time she actually had a reason for her actions. “Father, I…” she started. “Silence, my child.” Those words had been spoken to her many times and every time they meant something different. This time they were spoken with sadness. “I have come to give you news of Mayghen.” Jenna sat up immediately. She couldn’t believe she had just gone to bed instead of checking on Mayghen when she arrived. She asked a little apprehensively. “What of her condition…does she remember anything?” “Calm thyself Jenna, I will bring you to her, but you might not like what I am going to tell you.” 82
Dragon Rescue “Father?” “When Jerin arrived with Mayghen, he immediately had someone bring Tani to her. Tani has done what she can, Mayghen’s wound has been cleaned, but she has not woken up. Sometimes it seems she is caught in a nightmare and can not break free. Someone suggested that it mirrored the dragon’s disease, but Tani said that it was from the blow to the head. The only thing we can do is to wait for her to wake up.” “I need to go see her.” Jenna got off the bed, still in the dress from the night before. It was quite dirty and rumpled and the servants would be talking about her. “Jenna there is one more thing we need to discuss before we go.” His heart felt heavy as he looked at his daughter. He hated to do this to her and at such a time, but it needed to be done. “After last night’s excursion, I have come to the conclusion that you need a husband.” “But I had to go…she needed me.” “That may be, but it does not change the fact that in a small period of time you have disappeared twice. Once by yourself and returned with a man, then once more with that same man.” Not being able to discuss what Geresin had overheard in the servants quarters, Grelas decided to just tell Jenna what she was going to do. “I have decided that before more damage can be done, you will marry.” He paused to see what she would do. He halfexpected her to yell at him and then stomp away. Instead, she sat there in silence. He could see the sadness set into her emerald eyes. “I asked Thomas if he would take you as his wife, and he has agreed.” “Married, but Father, I had to go! And Thomas, he is nothing more than a friend. How could you doom me to marry without love? Besides, I cannot marry now. We have to find the person 83
Rachel Reeves who has hurt Mayghen!” King Grelas rose from the bed, and looked down at his daughter. Mayghen was the exact reason he was doing this to his daughter. It could have been her who had been knocked out. He knew little of the whole situation, but one thing was for sure, his daughter would remain safe and out of harm’s way. “Jenna, I am doing this for your own good, you and I are too much alike and I need for you to be safe. Will you do as I ask?” She knew that she must, her heart shattered at the thought of marrying someone other than Simon, but she could not bear the pain she saw in her own father’s eyes. She would do as he said because he asked her, rather than demanded her compliance. “I will,” was all she could say before the tears came. “Could you please bring me to Mayghen now? I’d like to see how she is doing.” “Yes, I shall wait outside while you change your attire.” When Grelas closed the door, he could hear the open sobs coming from his daughter. He hated that he was the cause of her pain, but he had warned her that this would happen. The door opened only a few moments later. She had put on a fresh day dress and was ready to leave. Grelas was surprised at how quickly his daughter could compose herself. There was no sign of the sadness she felt only a few moments ago. Together they walked in silence towards the room where Mayghen lay. Worn and tattered, Simon and Geresin had made it back. They first went to the stables to take care of their own horses, as well as Mayghen’s. They worked together in silence, both knowing what should be done. Once the horses were settled, Geresin picked up the dragon and they walked across the courtyard to the palace doors. They 84
Dragon Rescue continued to the place where Geresin was sure Mayghen would be. If for nothing else, he was going to bring her the dragon. He sure didn’t want to be responsible for it. They entered the room, to find Tani by her side. Mayghen looked as if she was sleeping and he did not want to wake her. He gently placed the dragon next to her and left the room. There was no time to sit and wait to see what would happen. He had duties to attend to, first of which was to bring the note he had found to the king. He had not opened it, and wondered if he should. It may be something that the king needed to see, or nothing at all. Reaching into his pocket, Geresin took out the parchment. Walking down the hall he read the disturbing words written upon it. To his Majesty the King, It breaks my heart to bring you the news that you have a conspirator within your walls. I found this out not too long ago and have been trying to correct the situation. You see, my daughter, Mayghen, was the reason the dragons had gotten sick. I am sure you can find some of the poison still in her quarters. She has ignored my wishes and is driven by jealousy for what should have been hers. She is of noble birth, but not of noble heart. I fear she will make more attempts on the lives of the dragons, or cause them harm in other ways. Please heed my warning and detain her immediately. Your Faithful Servant, Lanthu Geresin was furious, all he could think was that they were out there doing their best to save the girl and all the time she was deceiving them. He would give this to the king at once, but first he would go search her rooms to see if there really was some sort of poison. It did not take him long to get there and as he searched the area, he was rewarded with a suspicious looking vial. Grabbing 85
Rachel Reeves the glass that held a clear liquid in it, Geresin went looking for the king, armed with the note and the evidence. He was completely disgusted with himself for thinking that she might be special. That was the reason he had offered to walk with her earlier. All this time, she was fooling them with her sweet looks. He would never trust another word out of her mouth again, and as far as he was concerned she could rot in the dungeons forever. Left alone with Tani and Mayghen, Simon was not sure what he should do. He would be in the way here, and he needed to get some rest, so he could think properly. They needed a plan, but that would have to wait until she woke up. “Tani, can I make a request of you?” “Simon, you should know that you do not have to ask. What is it that you need?” “It seems that I will be staying for awhile yet, I would like to help when we go out and search for the person who attacked her.” “I will let you know. Though right now, nothing will be known until she awakens.” Simon nodded in agreement, the only one who had information was Jenna, and she was keeping most of it to herself. He turned to walk away when the door opened. In stepped King Grelas followed by his daughter, she had been crying recently and he wished he knew why. He nodded his head in a bow to the king and continued to stare at Jenna. Knowing all that had happened, he believed something else had created this. He wanted to take her in his arms and make it better, but was a little scared to do so with her father standing there. “Your Majesty, I would like to ask for the honor of helping you with the task of finding this girl’s attacker.” Grelas had not given notice to the man, whom he now recognized as Simon, when he entered the room. He accepted his offer to help, and was 86
Dragon Rescue pleased that he was willing to stay and assist them, rather than flee. “How is it that you and my daughter came to the knowledge that Mayghen might be in some trouble?” “From what I know, Jenna heard that Mayghen might need some help, so we went rushing after to aid her.” Jenna was relieved that he didn’t divulge the whole of the story. Having Camille know was bad enough, she wouldn’t be happy if she knew that the hatchling was here curled up beside Mayghen. “How did he get in here?” “When Geresin and I arrived we did not know what to do, so he brought it in here and left it with her.” “He looks at peace by her side.” Jenna looked up longingly at Simon. She felt peaceful when he was by her side. She wanted to spend the rest of her days finding out everything about this man. He was her hero when he’d saved her from drowning, aggravating when he threw her back in the lake, passionate when kissing her. He was also compassionate when it came to finding his friend, and insistent in helping her. She could not find a flaw in him. She stood there so long, looking up at him, thinking that he’d caught her with those brown eyes of his… He said nothing, but continued to look back at her. There was a connection between them, if only they had more time to explore it. Never mind the fact that she was to wed Thomas soon. Jenna thought that if her father had it his way, it would be done by now. King Grelas moved closer to Tani, to find out if there was any improvement in the girl’s health. The only thing that had changed was that she had not had a nightmare since the dragon was placed by her side. “It’s possible that the dragon formed some sort of connection with her.” 87
Rachel Reeves “But how did the dragon get out there?” “We may not know until she is awake.” “Unless my daughter knows more that what she has told me so far.” “I am sure that if there is anything we need to know, she will tell us.” “Of that, I cannot be so sure.” He looked over at his daughter and followed her gaze over to Simon. What was it that was between them? “Your Majesty, if I may be so bold, he really is an upstanding man. Just remember how he came to us.” Tani could see what was building between these two, she had heard from Jerin that the king had planned to marry Jenna off to his friend, Thomas. She hoped that something could be done before that happened. “I remember. It brings me back to the time of your mother, when yet another human man stole the heart of an elfin lady.” “And he was a good man, too.” “Yes, he was.” That was all that was said before Grelas left the room. He needed to go to his garden and think. Maybe he could find a way to make his daughter happy after all. Halfway there, he noticed Geresin seething down the hall as he clenched a piece of parchment in his hands. “Geresin. Come here.” Geresin looked up to find the very person he was looking for. He rushed forward and gave the king the letter. “I believe this will help clear up the matter, and I believe immediate action needs to be taken. I have also taken the time and found this as further proof.” The king took the letter and started to read, it was not long before he discovered the root of Geresin’s anger. Though for him, the letter proved to be more curious than upsetting. He remembered Lanthu, and now that he thought about it, Mayghen did share some of his features. He looked 88
Dragon Rescue at the vial that Geresin was all but shoving into his face. There was no proof that this is what made the dragons sick, but he was not going to test it out. “Geresin, I do believe that before we do anything rash, we must further investigate the situation.” “But what is there to investigate? I have found the proof, and we have the letter. Not to mention she was out there in the woods with a baby dragon.” “Those are good points, but we do not know what this vial contains, and under no uncertain terms are we going to test it out. I also know this Lanthu, and even though the misunderstanding of the past was cleared up, I would not trust him.” “Then what are we going to do?” “We will keep a watch on the girl, and wait to see if we learn anything more. Let us not walk into a trap that we may never recover from. How would you feel if you condemned an innocent girl?” “Yes, Your Majesty, I will follow your command.” Geresin was not going to let Mayghen off that easy. Once she woke, he would watch her closely to see if she did anything else suspicious. “Now, that is taken care of for the time being, I need your advice on something else.” “How may I be of service to you?” “What is your opinion of Simon?” Geresin was puzzled at this. “Well…Sire. From my experience with the man, he is honorable.” King Grelas only said, “Thank you,” as he walked away, his mind embedded with thoughts of what he should do.
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Chapter Nine As much as Simon hated to leave, he needed some sleep. Bowing to the two ladies, he made his excuses and left. Jenna watched him go, she wanted nothing more than to follow him and wrap herself up in his warmth. “Jenna, how do you feel about him?” “Oh, Tani, I do believe I am falling in love with him. Though now, I won’t have the chance to find out.” The tears came again and Tani wrapped her arms around the petite princess. “Maybe something can be done. You could try running away again, or you could try talking to your father.” “It would break his heart if I left again. I can’t do that. And I don’t think he would allow me to marry anyone else but Thomas now.” “You never know until you try. He’s probably in his garden now, contemplating what to do with you.” Looking up, Jenna asked. “Why would you say that?” Smiling down at her, she replied. “Because he saw the way you too were staring at each other a few moments ago. I also gave him a push and told him that Simon was a wonderful man.” “Did you really?” “I did, now go find your father.” Jenna dried her tears and ran out of the room; thoughts of Mayghen and the dragon were pushed to the back of her mind. She continued to run throughout the palace, until she was almost to her father’s garden. This place was sacred to all, 90
Dragon Rescue because it was her mother’s favorite spot. Jenna slowly approached the gates. She could see her father off in the distance, near a small waterfall. He looked lonely and she would do anything to make him smile. She outstretched her hand towards the gate only to have someone from behind grab it. It didn’t have the roughness that made her body feel alive. Instead, it was smooth as glass. It turned her around and she was face to face with Thomas. He tried to look serene and loving as he spoke. “Hello, my sweet…” He could barely make out the word betrothed before he started to laugh. “I’m sorry Jenna, I accepted because your father asked. But I know you too well. You are a wonderful friend, but I don’t see how we can make it as husband and wife.” “Father told me that friends make the best marriages.” “Don’t tell me that you want to marry me? That you have secretly longed for me this whole time?” Insulted, she pulled her hand from his grasp. “No indeed, I do not want to marry you. Sometimes Thomas you are too pompous for your own good.” “Jenna, I was just joking. You looked so sad I wanted to cheer you.” “Well, it’s hard to jump with joy with all that is going on, don’t you think?” “What do you mean? What is going on?” She had to go and open up her big mouth, now he would get the information out of her. She needed to get away and soon. “Oh, you know, Simon rescuing me, Mayghen falling ill and of course my unexpected engagement to you.” “You aren’t telling me everything, but I’ll let that slide for now.” He gave her a serious look. “What were you going to talk to your father about?” She couldn’t lie to him about this; if she ended up having to marry him, she did not want to begin 91
Rachel Reeves the marriage with an untruth. “I was actually going to try to get out of our engagement…it’s not that I’m not honored that you would have me, but I’m in love with someone else.” “Well, good luck with that.” He placed a chaste kiss on her forehead and walked away. He really was a nice friend, she thought, she just didn’t want to marry him, and thank goodness it seemed like he didn’t really want to marry her either. She turned back to her mission. Nothing was said, as she sat next to her father, the king. The silence continued while they watched the water flow into a small pond filled with fish. She remembered when she was a child, how she would love to swirl her hands in the pond, trying to pet them. “Father, you know I will do as you asked, but…is it possible to marry another?” “Shhh, my child. Out of all of my children, you are the one that is most like me. I would never willingly cause you unhappiness. However, I do feel that it is time you married.” Jenna’s heart sank, he would not relent. “Though, from what I have witnessed, I am willing to let you choose whom it is you want to marry.” It took a moment for her to realize what he’d said, then she grabbed her father and hugged him. “Thank you father, this is the best gift you have ever given me.” “My sweet child, I have been reminded that even the best of friends can make a grand marriage, but when you are in love, it makes the best kind of marriage. Go now; find your future husband, though I reckon he may be asleep.” “Yes, my king.” Jenna smiled at this, nothing could make her happier. She couldn’t wait to share the news with Simon. Except, what if he didn’t want to stay? What if he didn’t want to marry her? She needed to find out as soon as possible. 92
Dragon Rescue This time, she entered from the room door, instead of sneaking about the back halls. Once again, she was faced with a sleeping Simon, one whom she admired. She closed the distance between them and sat at the edge of the bed. He was half-covered and she noticed a pendant resting on his chest. Her slender fingers glided over his chest to the necklace. She traced the dragon image on the front and wondered where it had come from. She felt him take a sharp intake of breath, and knew that he was watching her. She turned to see the hungry look in his eyes, and melted with the sweetness in his voice. “Ah, Jenna, what am I to do with you?” He sat up and twirled one of her curls between his fingers. “You are there when I am awake, and you are with me when I dream. I see you everywhere and in everything. You are my little elf princess, you haunt me with those eyes, and your soft curls. When the time comes, it will be difficult to leave.” “I could come with you.” Her hand moved from his pendant to his heart. “I am yours if you want me to be.” “What of your family, and your people? They wouldn’t want their princess to leave them.” “They have another, and we could always come back.” This made him laugh; she would never leave him bored. They would always be off somewhere on an adventure. He thought of what it would be like to have her by his side from here on out, and came to the conclusion that he did not want to find out what life would be like without her. He stood up, only to sink to the floor. “Jenna, though we have only known one another briefly, I feel that we have an unbreakable bond. I would be lost without you.” He paused before speaking the words he had yet to tell any woman. He lifted her 93
Rachel Reeves hand to his lips and then brought it to his heart. “I feel you in my soul, and I love you. Would you become my wife?” Jenna stared at the man kneeling before her. Yes, he was the one she wanted. She slid down the bed to the floor, gazed into his eyes and replied. “Yes, Simon of Buxham, I will have you.” She placed her fingers upon his cheek and guided his face to hers. With all of the passionate kisses they had shared, this single, sweet kiss topped them all; for it was this one that began the true adventure between the two of them. When the kiss ended, she laid her head in the crook of Simon’s neck while she caressed his medallion with her slight fingers. Jenna never thought she would give in to feelings of the heart so easily. She had avoided it for so long and now she knew why. She had been in wait for Simon. Jenna had to tell Camille that she would not be eating him for breakfast any time soon. “Camille, I have something to tell you.” “Is it something to do about the hatchling that you haven’t returned to us yet?” “Umm, no…but he is fine. He is actually helping us out at the moment and then we will return him to you. Besides, if I brought him up now, there would be questions, and we still need a bit more time. Mayghen has not woken up yet and we need her knowledge.” “Fine, then what is it that you have to tell me?” “That you will never be able to tackle Simon and eat him, we are going to be wed, when there is time.” “Hmph, like I couldn’t see where you two were headed from the moment he threw you in the lake and you hit him in the head.” Jenna left it at that. Why did she have to bond with a sarcastic dragon? Simon was in shock. The words bounced 94
Dragon Rescue through his head. How was this happening? He never could hear her before? Was it because he was going to marry Jenna? That couldn’t be, could it? He would have to think about that later. There was far too much happening at the moment to add anything else to the fray. He placed a kiss on the top of his future bride’s head, then rose and went across the room to dress in some fresh clothing. It was time to share their news with the others. He wondered how long it would be before they could wed. It wouldn’t take place as long as Mayghen was still hurt and Lanthu missing. He took Jenna’s hand and together they sought out King Grelas to share the news. Knowing the king, there would be a grand dinner in their honor. “Simon.” “Yes, my sweet?” “How do you think my brother is going to react to the news?” He could hear the teasing note in her voice. “Oh, I don’t know, you might become a widow before a wife.” She couldn’t resist a little giggle. “I guess that means we should run away. Maybe Camille would be willing to sneak us off on another adventure.” “Oh no, I’m not ready to go flying across the sky just yet.” “One day, you will be.” They reached the garden where her father was waiting for them. Their troubles were then forgotten for a short time, for the rest of the night was their’s alone.
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