“You could’ve warned me about being needed!” I heaved and puffed as I attempted to open one of Themberchaud’s shackles. The hinge was clogged with dead scales and rust, practically fused shut.

He huffed, flopping his tail on the ground. “It was a very last-minute decision! I didn’t know what to do!”

I bit my cheek and shoved the toe of my boot in under the latch of the shackle and forcefully tried to turn the key. The key suddenly clicked into place and the joint separated, the iron falling off Themberchaud’s wrist with a hefty clunk that rang through the open-aired lair.

I slumped against Themberchaud. “There we go,” I sighed and thought about the endurance I’d need for the other three… and his collar. I groaned, face against his scales. “Well… I need a new cane now… and I have no money. All that’s at home.” I forced myself to stand and hobbled over to his rear leg.

Themberchaud watched me. “Oh… I didn’t think of that. I… I’m sorry,” he sniffled, and his voice strained, like a child getting in trouble for the first time, tragically mourning its parent’s pride.

I turned to look at him and reached for his face, big round black opals set in topaz shone back at me. His eyes were too pretty. “No, no. It’s okay… We’ll figure it out somehow.” Stroking my thumbs on his cheeks, I shushed softly to soothe him. “It’s okay.”

The corners of his mouth curled up a little. “Okay, (Y/N). If you say so,” he nodded, gaining his confidence again.

I smiled and dipped my head. “Then let’s work on this.” I turned back towards his shackles. It was a struggle, but my technique seemed to work; jamming my toe between the metal and his scales and forcing the key to turn. The hardest was the collar on Themberchaud’s neck. He kept laughing and flinching and shaking all over. I could never imagine someone being so ticklish, and his huge jiggly mass made it worse. I plopped down beside him, feeling my leg give out and burn.

“There. All done,” I huffed and rested against him, hand on his muzzle.

Themberchaud hummed. “Does your leg hurt?”

I nodded. “I’ll need to find a new cane soon. The floor here is… uneven.” I took it all in. It was a huge crater in a hollowed-out mountain, moonlight illuminating it all… not that there was much. The greatest decoration was the stars high above. All we had was whatever gems Themberchaud had brought with him. And I presumed it would all be needed, like the chain he’d brought to fly. We were curled up in a nook of the stone wall. Outside was a sea of trees. We were south of the Evermoors, that much I knew.

Themberchaud hummed. “We could try fly to a town? I think I saw a few close by.”

I shook my head. “I’ll go alone. You need to stay safe. I’ll… figure it out… somehow.” I sighed and stared up at the sky. I’d not seen the sky much ever. Jack had snuck me out a few times during the winter to come see the stars from the docks…

Now everything was so different. I was out in the overworld… alone.

Themberchaud sighed and rested his head down, getting ready to snooze. I suppose I wasn’t alone-alone, but he knew next to nothing about living. He had very few skills. None of which were useful. No could I imagine they’d be useful.

I put my head on my bent leg. I had no skills either. The most I’d ever done in life was feed Themberchaud. We both had so much to learn…

*~*~*~*

The following morning was a struggle. The nearest town was not as near as I’d had hoped. And with a weakened leg, the distance was longer. Thankfully the town wasn’t walled off, it seemed relatively unpoliced. More like a trading post that had evolved into a town. Travellers and rogues wandered the street, buying from stalls and passing charms and papyrus between each other. I felt some eyes land on me as I rested against a wall. Curious or judgemental eyes mainly.

I returned the favour, watching all the people in the cobbled street. Not a single one of them seemed to be a settler of the town. There weren’t many houses to live in either. What sort of village was this? I thought this would be a more permanent place like Gracklstugh. The River Surbrin bubbled close by and I passed a fairly unkempt cemetery on my way in. From asking around, it had no real name, it was just called the Travelling Post. Not a town nor village, just a place. Nowhere really seemed to be fitting to find a job. I found a few loose coins in my bag and bought some bread, spuds and a dull dagger. It’d have to do for now.

I spent most of the day sitting, ragged and exhausted. I must’ve looks like a beggar with my damaged leg outstretched. I suppose I was a beggar. I had no home, little food and an injury to take pity on. Can’t say I was surprised when some coppers were tossed at me through the morning.

But such an appearance had its advantages; I started to hear things. After only a few hours I’d heard of a new Lord of Neverwinter and the suspicions regarding the last one’s death. Something about the sorcerer the new lad had brought with him.

I was invisible to these people.

Another group that passed seemed hopeful, but ragged. A bit of eavesdropping revealed that they were headed to Mornbryn's Shield, hoping to meet a ranger. Xenk or something. Their hope was for him to help one of their companions, that he had a wide knowledge of all things magic. That seemed promising… hopefully his knowledge extended to dragons and where to hide them.

“We’re not far now,” said the older of the women as their wagon’s wheels creaked and clicked on the cobblestone road. She reminded me of my mother, short and plump with greying hair. “Mornbryn’s Shield is just west of here.”

A lump burned in my throat, and I turned away. Now was not the time to be upset and regretful, I had so much to figure out.

A cool wind from the lake grounded me. It was time to move. There was nothing here for me and if people were travelling for a ranger, he must be willing to help anyone. I pushed myself to my feet and looked at the as the matriarch pulled the pony to a stop. Would they be willing to help?

I drew in a breath and hobbled up to their wagon. There were a couple of children, presumedly their mother, and grandmother, all on the small wagon. Their mother was a few years older than I, with two wee lads about six years old. I wasn’t sure how willing they’d be to take on someone else for the last few leagues.

The taller of the boys, definitely twins, looked at me as their mother hopped off the cart to go to the baker’s stand. I gave the boy a smile and hobbled over slowly. “Excuse me?”

The grandmother looked over at me. “Oh, hello!” she smiled and looked me over. Her gaze was fixed on my lower leg as I moved. Maybe it would be an advantage this one time. “You’re having some trouble?”

I nodded and stopped a few feet away from the cart to avoid pressuring her—not that I seemed anything more than hapless. “Aye, I am.” I held the strap of my bag. “You wouldn’t happen to be headed to Mornbryn’s Shield I suppose? Or even close to it?” It seemed wiser to act like I’d not heard her conversation.

She nodded. “We are indeed. You too?”

Again, I nodded. “Aye. I walked from the forest just south of here.” I gestured my hand towards the wall of green in the distance.

Her face darkened. “The High Forest?”

I tried not to make a face. I’d fucked up. “Aye, well, just on the outskirts. My friend… he’s in no shape to move so I thought I’d find someone to help here and well… that’s not really possible.” I looked at the stalls and travellers around.

She glanced at her grandsons, then her daughter coming back to the wagon. “Just… give me a moment.” She shuffled to the other side of the bench to lift food onto the wagon and, not very subtly, talk with her daughter.

I looked away and thought while they talked. The Undercity’s education never really covered the geography and name places of the Surface. This was my first time seeing the trees and so much sunlight. I needed to know the land better.

“So, you need a lift to Mornbryn’s Shield?” the daughter asked, getting me out of my thoughts.

“Aye, I do. Just if you’re willing. I’ll figure something out somehow.” I shrugged.

She looked me over, just as her mother had done. She noticed my weaker leg bent, toes barely touching the ground through my boot. “Do you have a cane?” her mother tapped her head from her sea on the wagon. She snapped her head around to give her a look.

“I did. But it snapped on me yesterday and we needed to use it for firewood.”

She looked at me and thought for a moment, glancing at her sons. “I suppose it won’t be for long. Welcome aboard for the next hour or so.” She held out her hand to me.

I smiled and shook it. “Thank you very much. I have just a spare copper to offer I’m afraid.”

Ther grandmother shook her head. “Oh don’t be silly! Just hop up and sit with the boys and we’ll be fine!”

Her daughter seemed content with that, though I presumed she was still wary. She stepped aside to let me get on.

I nodded and gripped the handle to pull myself up. “Thank you, again.” She tried to reach to help me but I levered myself up quickly to avoid that. “I’m alright!” I moved to sit beside the end of the wagon and the boy that sat on that side moved to sit with his brother. I could hardly blame him. This close to him, I saw that the smaller boy had some sort of large scar, or birth mark, on his face.

It was spread over the left side of his face, and down his neck. It was a pale purple, like a healing bruise, brown spotting of the rest of skin peeked out in places. I felt bad for him. It looked like it hurt. I shifted my gaze away. The judgement from scars and weaknesses always felt so shameful.

The grandmother looked back at me. “I’m Shyla. This is my daughter Kait.” She smiled warmly.

“(Y/N).” I inclined my head. “Pleasure to meet you all.”

They made a nice travelling group. The boys murmured to themselves and Kait and Shyla yapped to each other. I pulled back the sleeve of my jacket to looked at the bracelet Themberchaud had given me. He’d want to know what I was at.

I touched the ruby and closed my eyes. An image of him slowly formed, lying down on the cool cavern he’d settling in.

“Heya Thember!” I called.

He perked up. “(Y/N)! Are you on your way back? Did you get a new stick for your leg?”

I shook my head. “No. not yet. I’m on the way to hopefully get help. There’s word of a ranger, maybe he’ll know something. And proper village that should have somewhere I can buy a cane. And food.”

Themberchaud pulled a face. “I don’t like that plan. We don’t need a human interfering.” He huffed.

“A human was what got you out of there. Two actually.”

He growled. “And hundreds have kept he enslaved! Who’s to say he won’t do the same?”

I was silent for a moment, trying to stay focused on him as my body grew cold. We were passing under a shadow.

“See?! You know how bad humans are!”

I chewed my cheek. “Oh stop it! People are coming from all weird corners of Faerun to get this lad’s help!” I calmed myself. “He’s obviously a good guy. But if I find him to not be trustworthy, I’ll scrap that plan. Deal?”

Themberchaud thought about it for a moment. “Alright. I understand. You made a good call with your brother so maybe that’s enough.” He nodded. “If he’s mean though I get to hurt him, right? And burn them all?”

I stared at him. “Absolutely not.”

The sun stunned me out our connection and I blinked to get the red hue from my vision. As my eyes righted themselves, the boys opposite me were staring at me.

“What?”

The taller of the two lifted his nose a little. “Where’d you get that?” he pointed at the bracelet.

I tugged my sleeve over it. “From my friend. The one I’m trying to help.” It was then I’d noticed that my weak leg had been outstretched to be more comfortable during the connection. I pulled it closer with my hand to lessen the pain of moving it.

“What happened to your leg?” the other, scarred, one said.

I glanced at it. How many stories had I made up about why it was this way? At least a dozen. “The story I tell everyone,” I leaned closer to them, “is that I was sleeping in my home, when a red dragon came along and lit our house on fire. And my leg got caught in the flames as I escaped!”

The boy covered his eyes and squeaked, drawing his mother’s attention. I looked at him softly.

“But that’s not true at all. I was born in the undercity, Gracklstugh. The lack of sunlight made my leg weak. It’s not uncommon.” I smiled softly. “I’m just born this way.”

The smaller boy looked at me. “Oh well… That’s better than fire I suppose.”

I chuckled a little. “Yeah. I suppose.” My smile dropped. It didn’t feel better. A burn would’ve healed. This issue went right to the bone.

*~*~*~*

I hopped off the wagon as the boys grabbed their bags. I offered a hand to them to hop down. Kait appeared opposite me and one after the other they jumped down from the cart.

“I’m sorry about your leg,” she said as the boys ran off.

I nodded, dismissive of these comments. “It’s fine. I gotta make do. Thanks again for the lift. You’ve saved me a bunch of time.” I rummaged for my spare copper.

She lifted her hand. “No. keep it. Hopefully you get the help you need here.”

I stopped my rummaging. “Thanks. And you too.” I faltered. “Or whatever you’re here for. I hope it goes well.” I gave Shyla a wave and quickly limped away, leaving them confused and probably concerned.

I walked into a crowd of people and hugged the corner of a cottage.

Leaning on the wall, I thought. I needed to find Xenk. Maybe the ranger could help. He was a kind man with some sort of power. Good to know. So, what did I need exactly?

Somewhere to hide Themberchaud… could the ranger be trusted with that?

“Hello. Hello!” My attention was drawn to a tall man opening the door to his—I presumed—home. He was of lean build with some sort of scar or tattoo on his forehead. He was talking with Shyla and Kait. He nodded as he heard their story and invited them into his home. I watched for a while. When they emerged while later, the smaller boy’s face was unmarked. He was grinning and bouncing with his brother. Shyla held the man’s hand in hers as she and Kait thanked him.

It was amazing… and terrifying. How could he do it?

I watched the family leave and run off to an inn close by. Would it be selfish to want the same for me? He’d hardly do it for a single copper would he?

“Impressive, ain’t he?” chimed a man from behind.

I nodded. “Absolutely.” I looked at the man. He was a few years old than me, strong and hairy, much like Jack. “Does he charge much?” I looked away.

“Nay. He wants nothin’ in return. Xenk’s a good man like that. Not too sure where he came from. Lotta rumours goin’ around.”

So that was Xenk. Impressive. Hopefully he could help me… and Themberchaud. I looked back at the man. “What does he do?”

He shrugged. “Protects the town. Just being here chased off any ill-will from comin’. And he’s a skilled man. Bow or sword, he’s there to protect and heal and help howeve’ he can.”

I nodded slowly. “Thanks.” I shuffled away and gave him a half-wave to be polite. I made my way towards his home. I felt more exhausted than ever just getting closer. I was about two steps away from the door when it swung open, Xenk appearing.

I flinched and he stared at me, his eyes peering at me for a long moment. He looked around at the people passing through the street.

“Come in,” was all he said and before I could do so myself, he grabbed my arm and tugged me.

I yelped and pulled my arm away with a huff as the door clicked shut. “What—?!”

His gaze was firm on me. “You’re in trouble.”

My face twisted into a sceptical frown. “No I’m not.”

“Yes, you are. Come.” He turned away and strode down a hallway.

I followed as quick as I could, entering a small room filled with shelves lined with various books.

“Tell me your name.” He stood in the middle of the room, spinning perfectly on the spot to face me. Behind him was a solid oak table with a map and papers laid out.

I watched him. “(Y/N). I’ve come from Gracklstugh.”

Xenk didn’t move at all to acknowledge what I said. “That explains it,” he said without missing a beat.

“Explains what?”

“Gracklstugh just lost its dragon did it not? Part of the city was damaged in its escape.”

My heart dropped and I leaned on the nearest bookshelf. Had I hurt anyone? What was destroyed? What did they th—?

“You didn’t know?”

I lifted my gaze to him slowly. “I did not,” I whispered.

His gaze softened a little and pulled out a chair by the table in the middle. He tapped it and I felt compelled to come forward. My leg was ready to give way in both exhaustion and shock.

I slumped down and my vision blurred. I had doomed them…

I don’t know how long I was zoned out; I was brought out by Xenk putting a small porcelain cup beside me, a soothing scent taking me out of my wordless sorrow. My gaze shifted to him sat across the table with his own cup.

“You came to me for a reason, correct?”

I bobbed my head and grazed by hand under my eye to wipe my tears.

“And it’s not to help Gracklstugh, because you did not know of their fate. So why are you here?” He leaned on the table, cradling his cup between his hands.

I drew in a shaky breath and took a sip of what he had offered. It gentle, warm and a little sweet. My throat cleared and my breathing calmed. “I helped the dragon escape… If I didn’t, I feared… I feared he’d do worse to the city. He’d burn it all, tear down every pillar, kill us all… I thought, maybe…” I looked at the cup, the white transparent liquid reflecting my face and shaken state.

“I see… you were noble in your act. There is no news of a loss of lives. Reports said that the people were evacuated far from where he would escape.” He watched me with an expectant yet knowing eyes.

I nodded and sighed. “Aye. With my brother, we stirred up some talk, got everyone out of the way… well tried to. I can’t be sure no one was hurt.”

Xenk was silent for a few moments. His face seemed blank but something about his eyes told me he was thinking. “So why are you here?”

“Well… I heard people come to you for help. And maybe you’d have knowledge of the land, enough to uh…” I dug a tooth into my lip, “Help me find somewhere to keep Themberchaud?”

That made him falter, and a pit opened in my stomach. I was about to plead when he stood up. “I may have somewhere for him.”

*~*~*~*

My mother always told me to beware of men who kept secrets and bore blades—even though she’d tried convincing me to court a guard for a summer. Themberchaud was starting to sound like her in his suspicion.

“Why are we trusting him again?” he grumbled as we walked out of the High Forest. I was looking at a luminescent map Xenk had given me from my seat on Themberchaud’s shoulders. Our target and path were mapped out from us in glowing blue and yellow ink.

I’d learned that the forest we’d been staying in was deemed the most magical place in all of Faerun, fabled for its history and even now its home to so many races… and for Inferno. Who we had thankfully avoided.

“Because I think we can. He gave me a new cane and everything, and he’s helped so many people that it has to be worth it.” I tapped his scales. “Please, Thember. We know next to nothing about this place and Xenk has basically handed us the key to get you a nice home.”

Themberchaud snorted. “I don’t want to be underground again.” He forced his way through the trees. They bent and snapped and splintered against his weight and force.

I nodded. “I know big guy, but I don’t know where else to put you. Until you can hunt and fight, a mountain would be off limits. This is the only place not held by a dragon that’s big enough to hold one.”

He was quiet for a bit, the moonlight catching his big puffs of breath. “Okay. But you better not plan on leaving me after.”

I hadn’t even thought of that. Where was I going to stay and live? What was I going to do?

“I will do my best to stay close to you, Thember.”

Xenk waited for us at the edge of the forest. Themberchaud looked at him and sniffed at his armour and blade.

“Well, aren’t you magnificent.” Xenk bowed his head in appreciation. “You, Themberchaud, are the only dragon I’ve ever seen this close up before.”

“Careful I don’t make it your last.” He snapped his jaw at him. Xenk didn’t move.

I swatted Themberchaud shoulder. “What did I just tell you?!” I hissed.

Xenk chuckled and waved his hand. “Don’t worry, (Y/N), I’m sure he was just being playful,” he said as he turned around. Themberchaud snorted, unamused. Xenk either didn’t hear him or ignored him. “Let’s make our way to the Underdark shall we?”

With only flying for short lengths of time, with a slow walking pace and only travelling at night, it took several days to reach the Sword Mountains.

“There’s a large entrance to the Underdark in the mountains. It should be big enough for you to get through, Themberchaud.” Xenk looked up at him, who was a panting mess yet again from flying over the Long Road and manoeuvring around the foothills.

I slowly slipped off his back and stroked his neck. I looked at Xenk “Thank you for your help.”

He bowed his head. “I’ll lead you into it, and help you get settled. Both of you.” He gave me a smile.

I wasn’t sure what that smile meant, other than he had a plan or an idea that involved me. I pulled out my cane to distract myself.

It was foldable, which would be good for storage and travelling. Made of some sort of dark wood with hinges at the folds and a handle cushioned by a spongy wrapping. The first length of it concealed a small blade. I liked it a lot.

When Themberchaud had caught himself, I nodded to Xenk. “Let’s head in.” The sun was lighting up the horizon and we had done so well to keep eyes off us so far, even when crossing the Long Road, which never seemed to get a break.

Xenk led us to a partially buried entrance, blocked off by loose boulders.

I frowned at the wall and looked at Xenk. “How’s this supposed to work?”

He winked and walked forward, walking through the stones. One second, he was before us, the next we saw were the bare stones.

Themberchaud bared his teeth. “Magic,” he growled.

I attempted to soothe him by petting his cheek. But he wouldn’t have it. He thumped his tail on the ground. “I won’t be surrounded by that stink again!” he roared.

I flinched and gripped by cane in fright at his intensity.

Xenk reemerged. “Do not worry, Themberchaud. This will keep anyone away from you and let you live in peace while having easy access to the Sword Mountains and the Kryptgarden Forest.”

Themberchaud glared at him. “I will not have magic around me!”

I looked up at him. Maybe I was tired and sore. Maybe I was homesick. Maybe I was just done with him. Maybe it was all that, but I couldn’t take it anymore. “This is the only way to hide you Thember!” I hissed. “This is the only way to protect and keep you from even worse powers. Do you want to go back to Gracklstugh? Do you want those magicians forcing you to be a puppet?” I glared at him, my heart thumping. He blinked at me with widening, wet eyes. “I sacrificed everything for you! My brother is hurt, Gracklstugh is broken. We hurt people by getting you out! This is the only home for you now until you’ve learned to fend for yourself. You’re not the only one stranded here! This is the only spell we’ve encountered. And it’s going to help us. So please! Stop complaining and trust Xenk! Trust me.”

I stood heaving for a while, leaning on my cane. Tears trickled down my cheeks and I wiped them furiously. Themberchaud lowered his head and whined softly. “I’ve not led you wrong. And Xenk hasn’t led us wrong… please. We’re almost safe. Let’s rest. I’m tired,” I sighed.

He was silent for a little while. “Alright… But if anything happens—.”

“—aye. I know. You can do whatever you wish. Crush and bite and devour. Just please, step inside.” I reached a trembling hand to his snout.

Themberchaud hummed and lifted his head. “I’ll go. But you’ll be the first to be devoured if something goes wrong.” He glared at Xenk.

Xenk, of course, was unmoving. None of Themberchaud’s threats ever made him move. Themberchaud could have his maw spread open to Xenk and he’d be motionless. At least, that’s what I’d imagine would happen…

*~*~*~*

Thankfully Themberchaud had taken to the Underdark.

Unfortunately, I was still left without a place to call home.

Xenk quickly left once Themberchaud was settled. He was still as mysterious as the day I’d met him, despite travelling for almost a week together.

“I must take my leave now. My job is done.” He bowed his head and rested his hand on the pommel of his sword.

I faltered, the peak of my exhaustion had finally hit, and the warmth of the midday sun was challenging me in my quest to remain awake. “Oh… well uh, travel safe?” The idea of him leaving opened a void in my stomach. I needed him.

“Do not doubt yourself, (Y/N).” Xenk put a hand on my shoulder. “Your determination and heart will guide you, just as it has now. Plus, you have a red dragon on your side—”

Themberchaud hummed from behind me. I looked over to see his head poking out from the fake stone wall and nothing else.

“—and he won’t let anything happen to you.”

Themberchaud nodded in agreement. “No, I won’t.”

My lips lifted a little in a smile, but it fell quickly. “What should I do though? I can’t hunt. Nor can Themberchaud.”

Xenk drew in a breath and pointed to the Long Road. “There’s a town called Triboar. You should be able to find some work there. Travellers pass through all the time. They’d need some permanent staff.”

I considered his proposal. “That sounds reasonable. Thank you, Xenk.” I looked away for a moment to fetch my last copper, but before I could fish it out, he was gone.

Themberchaud warbled. “He moves quick for an old guy.” I turned to him and frowned. “Don’t look at me like that! You’re grumpy because you are tired. Come sleep. You still have a bag of food that the ranger left.”

My brow creased deeper. “What food?”

Themberchaud was right. Xenk had subtly left a bag of food and supplies for me to get more comfortable in Themberchaud’s new lair. It was enough to help me temporarily; some meat and cooked vegetables, bits of wood to burn, a lantern and a bedroll and pillow. The pack itself made me look like a real traveller, which would help with the backstory I was about to make up.

And Xenk was right about Triboar. The constant stream of passersby made the prospect of a permanent worker very appealing. The issue was, of course, my leg. Most wouldn’t hire a crippled woman, much less one that had shown up as a refugee from Gracklstugh. But one took an interest in me.

“Don’ y’all have a dragon ‘n da city?” Bernard gnawed on the end of his pipe. He was heavy man with dirt across his forehead and sweat around his pits and chest. He seemed kind enough, if the swarm of animals around him were any indication.

“Aye, sir. We did.” I glanced at the dog licking my free hand while a kitten used my cane as a scratching post.

“Were ya e’er close to it?”

I found myself nodded before I could lie. “A-aye.” I cleared my throat. “Aye. I fed him regularly actually.” That probably sounded more like a lie than an actual one.

“So yer good wi’h big animals?”

I nodded. “Huge even!”

He thought again for a long moment. “Alrigh’ then. Let’s see wha’ yer like, seeing as Sandy and Pumpkin like ya so much.” I must’ve pulled a face because he gestured to the golden dog and the ginger tabby. “Sandy is my right-han’ dog in e’erythin’,” he started off across his bustling yard, “an’ Pumpkin is da newest kid on the block.”

I hobbled after him, Sandy and Pumpkin following me. “Well, I’m glad they like me then?”

Bernard laughed and walked me into the stables. “Sandy ‘as a good sense fer folks. I trust ‘im with helpin’ me find the righ’ stable hand fer years now. Anytime he wasn’t all ove’ them, I learnt quick enough why.” He leaned on a stable door, his huge palm on the heavy half-door. “So, if he says yer worth hiring, I’ll listen.”

I looked at Sandy, then at him. He seemed very serious about Sandy’s judgement of me. “So, where do I start?”

He liked that answer, grinning. “Tha’s the a’itude!” With that, the large head on a bay mare was lifted over the stable door to look at me. “Let’s get you started.”

Never in my life did I think that my experience in Gracklstugh would pay off, but there I was, taking care of travellers’ horses, day-in day-out. I liked it actually. I could sit most of the day and Sandy helped me carry, or drag, anything heavy. It wasn’t very taxing either. Just had to do what was asked of me; feed, water, groom and/or polish tack and armour that the mount had. The only hard part was saying when we couldn’t lodge horses in the stables. This was nothing compared to feeding Themberchaud.

And I got tips too, which when added to my pay and my lodging with Bernard—and his family—made getting comfy easy enough and getting Themberchaud new treasure. The hard part was getting to see him.

Mid-week was when there was slow filing of travellers through Triboar. So that was my weekly meeting with Themberchaud happened. Most of the time I brought large cuts of meat or trinkets with me. He was even starting to hunt himself, so he wasn’t shedding much weight, but his flight was getting stronger. He was liking the peace. We both were.

But about a year after we’d gotten settled, Xenk came to visit.

I sat on an upturned bucket, plaiting a filly’s tail, when I felt a shadow fall on me and cooling my skin from the late morning light. “I’ll be with you in a moment!”

“Please. Take your time.”

I snapped my head up and blindly finished the braid. “Hello!” I stood up quickly, grinning. The bucket fell over and the clatter startled the horse. I reached for her lead. “Eh… one sec!” I turned her out into the small paddock with the other horse’s she’d arrived with.

I rushed back to Xenk, hurting myself more than I’d intended. “It’s great to see you.”

He smiled. “And you too! It’s good to see you doing well for yourself.”

I nodded. “Thank you. What brings you to Triboar?”

Xenk looked at me warmly. “I need your help.”

I hesitated and stammered. “My help?”

He nodded. “Yes.”

I managed to be more confused by that. “Alright? Uh, let me ask my boss so we can talk.”

He nodded and stepped aside. “That would be appreciated. This is urgent.”

I grabbed my cane and walked to Bernard in his home. His children were helping him bake bread. “Um, Bernard? Do you have a minute?”

He lifted his head slowly and glanced at Xenk shadowing me. “Is thi’ da ‘friend’ you run off ta meet e’ery week?” He crossed his big arms.

I shook my head and tried not to pull a face. “No! No. Xenk is a friend of mine. And one I owe a huge favour too.”

I felt Xenk looked at Bernard over my shoulder. “I assure you, kind sera, this is a matter of urgency that only (Y/N) can help me with. It’ll take no more than two days. But we must leave immediately.” Looking at him, I saw his gaze was firm and sure.

Bernard was silent for a bit. Xenk has the effect of confusing, stressing and assuring people all at the same time. It must be a strange power to have, if he knew it was even a power. “Alrigh’. You can go.”

I nodded. “Thank you, Bernard.”

I followed Xenk out and he led me to a small group of people leaning on the paddock fence with a few horses. One was a bard, with his instrument on his back, a stubbled beard and bangs curtaining his face. He seemed to be impatiently thinking, it made me nervous. Then there was a barbarian woman, strong built and a heavy axe to her side as he munched on some fried potato bites from the stall down the road. Then there was a lanky-looking boy, maybe a sorcerer? There was no sign of a weapon or staff. The final member of the group was, I believe, a Tiefling, red locks, horns, and a tail. Her shades of green made me think of a druid and their ties to nature. A mixed batch of a party.

The bard turned to me and looked me over with those worn-out eyes. I had a feeling all of the people with him were some sort of recruits, additions to the party. He didn’t want anyone else to join. “You never mentioned you had an addition to the team?” his tone made it sound more like she’s not coming. Don’t fight me on it, Xenk.

I shifted uncomfortably and looked at Xenk. “(Y/N) is necessary for what we’re about to do.” He put his hand on my shoulder.

The maybe-sorcerer peered about the bard’s shoulder. “Why?”

“Because we are about to face something in there only (Y/N) can tame.”

I looked up at him. “What are you lot doing exactly? And why would I be useful?”

Xenk turned us around and took a few steps. “We need to enter the Underdark. We won’t go near Themberchaud. But even so, I need you there to keep him calm.”

I stood there blinking in confusion. “You’re joking right?”

“Why would this be a joke?”

I sighed and rubbed by face. “Why do you need to enter the Underdark and why—?”

“Please, (Y/N). I need you to help us. What they are doing is very important.”

I clenched my jaw and glanced back at the party. “But if I can just tell—”

“Is she in or not? We don’t have time!” the bard called. I had a feeling I was really going to dislike him.

With that, I sighed and Xenk said; “yes! (Y/N) will join us.” I hid the bracelet under my sleeve. I wasn’t going to get a chance to warn Themberchaud.

*~*~*~*

I learned their names quick enough: Edgin, Holga, Simon, and Doric. They were headed for Neverwinter. And after that I didn’t dare get nosy. With the help of a borrowed horse, I was able to ride with them to the Sword Mountains. They didn’t seem too interested in me for the most part—which was fine. It was better for them to not care than to care in the wrong way.

As we met the mountains, I nearly turned off, but Xenk grabbed the reins. He shook his head and I stayed with the group. With the travelling, I couldn’t let Themberchaud know what was about to happen. Nor did I want to get robbed, which was apparently what this lot did. I chewed my lip.

Next was the Kryptgarden forest. The ground was uneven and after only ever riding on the smooth ground of the Long Road, which made me a nervous rider with a bad leg. My mare didn’t like how much I pulled at her reigns and hugged her flanks.

As we dismounted, Edgin was conversing with Xenk. “Orifices?”

Xenk assured his rope was firmly around a wide trunk, giving it a strong tug, before walking in a straight line onto bare ground. “The Underdark has many entrances.” He stopped and slowly turned around, rope in hand. “This is one of the less conspicuous.” With nothing else, he leaned back, and the ground gave way beneath him as he fell.

I yelped covered my mouth in shock. Stepped closer, there was a jagged, black hole. “Great.” I grumbled.

“I’ll go last,” Simon volunteered.

I sighed and after Doric I made my way down. Xenk had left yet another secret remains hidden; it’d take a day to get to the helm they were after. I trailed after the rest; my role would probably not even come to pass.

I hoped not at least.

*~*~*~*

My mother always told me to beware of men who kept secrets and bore blades.

Maybe I should’ve listened to her.

Xenk was both mysterious and carried a blade—many blades it turned out, and while he protected others from danger, he was in the habit of drawing attention.

The murderous and stalking kind.

Like Thayan assassins.

Which were, apparently, undead. Another secret to the pile.

But their mistake was not to challenge, Xenk. Their real mistake was come to come to Dolblunde, so close to Themberchaud’s lair.

I’d stayed on the suspended city, close to where the helmet had been kept for who knows how long. I was of little use to a fight and much less able to run from assassins.

First, I heard a mighty huff, and taking a peek, saw the party was thrown back. Then came the glowing eyes, the roars, and growls, before Themberchaud made his entrance into the light.

Even undead assassins know to fear a dragon.

It was amusing seeing Themberchaud roll down his hill of bones as he gobbled up each Thayan assassin, one after the other. By the time the party and him had made it to me, they were all eaten.

I made my way to my feet, and Holga grabbed my arm.

“Come on kid!” she yanked me.

I fought against her. “Stop!” I held out my hand and Themberchaud slid to a stop before me. His pupiled widened rather cutely.

“Surprise?”

I pet his snout. I knew it was wrong to be mad at him, especially after he helped deal with the assassins. “Good job!” I scratched his muzzle and made my way to scratch his horns as best as I could.

Themberchaud smiled and tapped his tail on the ground in bliss. I stopped after a bit, feeling eyes on me. He stood up and looked at the party behind me. “I uh, can explain that. They didn’t mean to disturb you.”

He hummed and eyed them suspiciously. “And?”

“And they’re done now. They’ll be on their way soon enough.”

Xenk walked towards us first, and the party, more warily, followed him. “Well done, (Y/N). And thank you for aiding and sparing us, Themberchaud.” He bowed his head.

Themberchaud watched him for a moment. “Oh. You’re the guy that brought us here!”

I tried to stifle my laughter. “Yes. This is Xenk, Thember.”

“Wait so you,” Edgin, the bard, started, “led us into the lair of a dragon knowingly?!” he jabbed a finger into Xenk’s armour.

“I had no intention of stirring him. But that is why I brought, (Y/N). In case this—” he gestured to the entirety of the Dolblunde. “—happened.”

Themberchaud bared his teeth. “You’re not so pleasant yourself.”

Holga chuckled from behind Edgin. “I think he’s cute.”

“Themberchaud is quite the dragon.” I nodded and looked past him as best as I could. His lair was easily accessible from here, as would the hidden tunnel.

I looked at Xenk. “We should probably leave right?”

He nodded. “Yes. Best not disturb this place much longer.” He turned to leave the way we’d come.

I looked at Themberchaud and nudged him gently.

“There’s…” he huffed, “a shorter way out.” He gestured a wing towards his lair.

I petted his head. “That’s it,” I whispered.

Xenk turned around. “That is appreciated, Themberchaud.” He looked at Edgin.

He sighed and shrugged. “Sure. There’s weirder shit that’s happened today.”