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promptsinpanem · 2 years

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Dragon of Midland

Summary: The Realm of the Midland and the Realm of the Highland’s are warring. A battle that began eons ago, and their will only be peace in the land when the dragon is found and given to the rightful heir to Panem. Fantasy HG

This was part of @promptsinpanem the story I always wanted to write You can read the first part HERE

Special Thanks to my incredible beta @norbertsmom who edited 20K in less than a week.

Rated M for Violence, War, Death, Witchcraft, Magic, Graphic Scenes of Violence, Canon typical Violence,

See the end for Latin Translations

PART 2:

Ch4 The Egg

That Evening

Katniss had never felt so connected to another creature whether it be human or animal. She stood by the fireplace, watching the egg. It was held in a cradle made of stone with hot stones around it. They placed the cradle close to the fireplace. Haymitch said it was important to keep the egg hot.

Her hand traveled to her amulet. She played with the gold talisman. She picked it up and stared at it once more. It looked like two golden birds wrapped around a black pearl. The day she had been crowned Queen, Haymitch had surprised her with the Amulet. It added fuel to the fire that was in her mind. She was immersed in a cauldron of ambiguity.

Her life was an enigma. She didn't learn of her birthright until she was eighteen, and then there were two more years of silence until Finnick brought her the egg. She dreamt about it from the time she was a babe. Haymitch had all of the answers, but it was easier to blast open a mine shaft than get anything out of him. No matter how many times she broached the subject of her past, Haymitch eluded her questions. She was frustrated, she was fighting a war she did not understand. She was a Queen with no heritage.

It wasn't until Finnick left that Haymitch told her he was going to privately train her to use her magic. Haymitch did not want anyone else to know that she was magical. He did not let her leave their dwelling during the day. It was only with the advent of Peeta that she was allowed to join the raids.

Katniss stepped back from the fire. She sat in her chair, looking out into the inky darkness. Questions kept swirling in her had her people had a visceral reaction to the amulet?

What was the meaning of this amulet?

Why was Peeta bonded to her?

Why hadn't she heard his voice again since last week?

She reached out once more with her mind, but she received silence in return.

Katniss hugged her knees to her chest. For as far back as she could remember, her people mined for precious commodities that were traded with the people of the Highland. Then one day Highland raised their prices, then blocked the only source of water, and refused to trade. The people of Midland were pushed deep within the caves of the Midland Mountains.

Queen Verity had declared war with them.

Katniss did not want to fight. Nonetheless, they prepared for war. For weeks, their strongest men and women trained. They looked for the best scenario on how to lay siege to Highland Castle.

Queen Verity had a massive army. And there were unconfirmed rumors that most were mercenaries from other lands. Closing her eyes, Katniss thought of the map she studied daily. Thus far, there was no clear way to lay siege to Highland Castle. Its walls were thick and some said protected by deep magic. Only a magical being could break through their defenses.

Haymitch said she had the ability to breach it, but her magic would be depleted. Their hopes lay with Peeta. The dragon could easily take down the walls once he was born. However, Katniss did not want to use Peeta. She didn't want to think that war was his destiny.

Katniss did not want to have the blood of her people spilled, or the blood of the people of the Highland. But, then again, peaceful diplomacy had failed. The people of the Midland were cut off from trading with other lands. They did not have access to food or water except for what they could find in the mountains.

The people of the Highlands had all the access to the land and to the water. They could trade with others as they border the Iron Sea. The only territory they did not broach was the Verbotem Forest and the Western Mountains. No one from the Highlands was permitted to go there. There were stories of beasts of unnatural semblance called Muttations that roamed those woods.

In order to reach the cave where Peeta lay, Finnick had to cross Vebotem. He was lucky to have made it back. He still would not speak of the horrors he faced there. Finnick had left a youth tinged by idealism. He returned as a man, grounded in realism, a very good-looking man. Her cheeks burned pink as she recalled his golden physique. He smelled like saltwater, but also sweet like honey. Katniss bit her bottom lip as she thought of how good Finnick smelled.

"I see you have a crush."

The voice startled her.

Katniss looked around and then realized it was Peeta. She stood and walked to the egg.

"Now you wish to speak to me?"

Katniss could see the dragon moving within the black onyx egg. The voice within her head sounded young. However, Katniss felt that it was wise beyond its years.

He chuckled. "I do not like to share."

"I am not some trophy to be won."

"I did not call you a trophy." Peeta was taunting her.

"But you are treating me as if I am chattel or a bed," Katniss was getting angry. She had never treated anyone thusly. She had the utmost care and respect for everyone.

Peeta laughed at her outrage. "You are so innocent," he said in a haughty voice.

"Take it back." Her anger flared, and she could not understand why. She was tough and had done things she was uncomfortable with because they had benefited her people.

"No," he purred.

"You mock me."

"I am only being truthful with you."

"No, you are annoying me."

Peeta laughed. "You will never mate with another human."

"I must marry one day," Katniss said, lifting her nose in the air.

"Is that right?" His voice dripped with sarcasm.

"I have to…to think about available candidates. It is only natural that I find Finnick handsome."

"Hmmm," Peeta said.

Katniss could picture him, as if he were with her in human form, lifting his eyebrow, mocking her.

"I must produce an heir…and Finnick is fit. He could provide me with strong heirs."

"So, you wish to marry." His voice was so cheeky.

She stomped her foot. "Yes. I've always wanted to get married."

"Liar."

Her cheeks burned brightly. They were hot to the touch when her cool fingers flew to them.

"Be quiet!" Katniss demanded.

Peeta laughed.

Angrily, Katniss stomped away from the egg and climbed into bed.

"Aren't you going to say goodnight, sweetheart," Peeta cooed.

Katniss growled in response, turning her back to him, and went to sleep.

In the morning, she was at practice. She was dressed in all black with leather trousers and chain mail. She spun around as Finnick swung at her with his sword. His skill with a sword had improved. Katniss thrust her sword using the flat edge and pushed him back, making him turn around, which allowed her to kick him in the back.

Finnick fell to his knees, but quickly got up and hunched over. "You've grown as a fighter?"

"I've had to join the night parties to gather grain." Katniss noticed the muscles in Finnick's arms, and this tiny distraction put her in peril. Finnick was nearly on top of her before she felt a burst of energy pulse from her amulet. It knocked Finnick on his back.

"FINNICK!" Katniss ran to him.

Finnick groaned before he sat up. "Well, that was unexpected."

"Are you hurt?"

"No, just embarrassed," Finnick said, giving her a grin. "When did you start using magic?"

"I didn't. I've never…" She stammered. "It just happened."

"I told you I don't like sharing." Peeta's voice wound through her head.

"Oh, shut up!" Katniss replied.

"Sorry?" Finnick said.

"No, not you," Katniss replied. "It's the dragon."

"He's…" Finnick pointed to his temple.

"Yes, I can hear him again," Katniss sighed. "He's annoying."

"Are you two done flirting?" Haymitch said.

Katniss felt heat rush to her cheeks. She could hear Peeta laughing at her. She wished he would be quiet. Katniss cleared her throat. "What is it, Haymitch?"

"Come along, we have news."

Katniss sighed as she left Finnick behind and walked along with Haymitch.

"The spy?" Katniss whispered.

Haymitch pulled a piece of parchment from inside his coat and handed her the missive. Her heart fell as she read. Queen Verity is planning to hire mercenaries. Katniss only had two battalions, nearly the entire population of Midland. Queen Verity had nearly double that.

"I need to know how many, Haymitch?"

"I will find out."

Ch5 Queen Verity

That Next Night

Verity awoke with a scream on her lips. She could see the flames, while light blasted through her body. In her bed, she shook her fists balling the silken sheets.

For the majority of her life, she had one singular dream. It was always the same. A woman stood upon a turret looking down at her Kingdom. Then the sound of rushing waters, followed by being engulfed by flames so hot they were white. There was no potion, no sacrifice, nothing took away that dream.

The Witch told her it was nothing. When she was younger Verity believed the Witch. However, as she grew older and began to look like the woman on the turret, Verity thought her dreams may be part of a prophecy. The Witch told her that it was a memory of how her parents died. They were burned in a burst of flames.

Satisfied with the explanation, Verity put the dream aside. Then recently she had begun having them more frequently. Now Verity wasn't so sure.

She lit a candle by her bed and looked around the room. Everything in the room was white, even in the darkness. White was the color of her family crest.

Her family motto was Puritas Vincet.

She picked up her mirror to glance at her features.

Verity was older now, into her third decade. Thankfully the magic of the old woman kept her looking young. She had ruled from a young age. Then one day when she was ten and five the old Witch told her there was a disturbance in the land.

At the time, Verity had been expanding her kingdom. They had been waging war for a long time with the people of Midland. The Midland kingdom was composed of a collection of chiefdoms and she had conquered the majority of their lands. Verity had successfully laid siege to the last vestige of power Ore Silvae and had driven the remnant into the Midland Mountains. She had gifted the property to Lord Undersee; he had slain the Chieftain In-Nucis Lyme.

It was her intent when she was twenty and five to cut off their water and force them out of their hiding place. She had sent engineers to see how she could cut off Midland from the water they needed. The engineers had found a way to collect the water into a small lake at the foot of the Midland Mountains.

However, the Witch had always guided her in matters of state, and never once had the old blind bat been wrong. Verity trusted the woman because she had saved her life against Midland. They had killed her parents, and she swore vengeance and to uphold the code.

When the Witch told her that there was a threat to her power in the Midlands, Verity was delighted with the woman's words of warning.

Though the dam she built allowed irrigated water to trickle through the Mountains, she controlled the waterway and they were powerless, and at her mercy. The water that drained into Denby Lake gave Highland increased yield in their farmland and weakened Midland. Verity laughed at their pathetic claims for peace.

Getting up, she padded to the window and looked down at the courtyard. The smooth white stone reflected the moon above. In the distance, she could see the gently sloping green pastures of her kingdom. She'd been the stewart of these people and proclaimed Queen by her people.

She lived by the code set up by her family, the code they ruled by. The code that ran through her veins.

To protect one's self-interest

To live for fortune and glory

To demand reward

To question those placed in authority

To win at all costs

To maintain the purity of the Highland

To persevere unto the end

To Spare No One

To Show Strength instead of Weakness

She was instructed by her mentor that the people of Midland were to be destroyed as they were evil bottom dwellers who killed her parents and would kill her if they got the chance. Anyone caught dallying with those vile creatures was immediately put to death.

The people of the Highlands were a better class and they were being terrorized by the people of Midland. They had foolishly come for peace as if they had any right after what they had done. They were barbarians.

Verity knew a war was coming and she was preparing her people for that eventuality.

"ANOTHER RAID," came the cry from the courtyard.

Verity slipped on a robe as she quickly descended the stairs toward the courtyard. 'Twas beldam that night as the alarm was sounded and wounded were brought in. Poor farmers burned, terrorized, half-dead serfs of her realm. Her white robe floated around her as she ran toward the injured, her gut twisting in horror.

"Close the gates," she ordered.

The fools were letting people in. They needed to keep people out!

"Quickly," Verity reached out to a young squire. "Fetch me the old Witch."

The squire's eyes widened. "The Witch?"

Verity struck down the boy. "I am your Queen, fetch me the Witch," Verity ordered.

The young squire jumped up, and bobbed his head, "Yes, your grace," he said before running off to complete his errand.

Verity moved forward. An old lady with grizzled gray hair and soulful brown eyes sat in a corner clutching a young girl. Verity hated blood, hated the sight of death and destruction. But most of all she loathed weakness.

"What happened?" Verity demanded.

"They attacked our village, your Highness," The old woman trembled.

"The one on the outskirts of the Castle?"

"Yes." The old woman said not daring to raise her eyes.

Fury swept through her at the account. Verity lifted her hand to slap the old woman, but instead, she walked away. The woman was not worth her time. The people of Midland were becoming more daring. They were raiding the village that lay on the outskirts of the city of Highland.

She found a guard. "Quickly, gather riders. They are attacking the Highland village."

The man looked pale at the order.

"GO!" She growled.

The man nodded and ran.

Verity rubbed her aching head. She dispassionately watched a streak of blonde run out. Verity stood and watched as Adeline ran forward with a healing kit.

"May I help," Adeline asked, kneeling down on the ground.

"Fine," Verity said. "And be quick about it Delly."

Adeline nodded and ran into the small crowd of people.

"My daughter, she, she…" the woman cried.

The bereavement, the sense of hope was like a wave that Adeline couldn't take. She quietly asked, "If you let me examine the child?"

It was then the woman saw who she'd been speaking to, her eyes widened, "Oh your -"

"Please allow me," Adeline held out her hands.

The woman opened her arms to allow Adeline to see the child. The child was wounded.

"Come with me, we have to take her to a quiet place so that I can heal her."

Adeline led the woman inside the stable, the only place Verity deemed worthy for the surfs.

From the door, Verity could see Lady Crane and Lady Undersee snickering and calling Adeline Cartwright, Delly. Verity laughed because Adeline flinched when she heard them use the nickname.

"You're grace," the young squire said bowing.

"Thank goodness," Verity said.

The squire backed away slowly.

"Witch!" Verity walked up to the blind woman and demanded. "You couldn't foresee this?"

"There are things that not even the wisest eye can foresee, Your Grace."

"Why does this keep on happening?"

"They are a blight on our people and must be eliminated," the blind Witch said. "They have a leader, but I cannot see them."

The Witch's voice hissed, and Verity's skin prickled with fear.

The witch said nothing. She stood facing the northeast, in the direction of the Midland Mountains. She sniffed the air as if trailing a scent. What is it that I sense? Who are you?" Her hands lifted and she whispered, "Equum et cinerem reuela qui redolet, da mihi potentiam suam mihi revelandi faciem!"

"Did you hear me?"

The witch stood still but then said, "Gah!"

"Care to explain what happened?"

"I cannot see who their leader is but they smell of horse and ash," the Witch said.

Verity arched an eyebrow, obviously, their leader was a warrior.

"You must find their leader and destroy him," the Witch said. "They are powerful."

Verity closed her eyes. She knew her control was tenuous at best. Her Lords and Knights were unloyal. She did not trust them and knew this leader was a threat to her throne. "How do I find them?"

"You must camp out on Denby at the foot of the mountains. There they will be revealed."

Verity thought about who was the closest to the Midland Mountains. Lord Undersea was a day-and-a-half ride to the foot of the mountains. The Cranes were the closest, but Lord Crane and his son Seneca were not strong enough. "I will send Undersee and his men to keep watch and engage in battle."

"That is a wise tactic, my Queen," the Witch said.

Ch 6 The Boon

That Night

Katniss had another exhausting day of training, followed by planning, then she and her riders had gone out to Crane, a village that was located southeast of the Midland Mountains. They left at twilight and rode for three hours to reach the village. They were able to take a few chickens, a good haul of vegetables, and most of all, hay. Another group was even able to bring back water from Denby Lake as well as fish.

They had wells in the caves that were connected to the above-ground river. However, because of the dams, Queen Verity had erected they needed to ration water. When they opened the dams the water within the wells rose and they were able to gather it and store it in specially constructed tanks. The extra barrels of water were always welcomed. Especially when they caught fish as well, an extra bonus of meat.

No one was maimed or killed in the raid, for which Katniss was very thankful.

They arrived shortly before daylight.

"The raid was successful?" Haymitch asked.

"They were not waiting for us," Katniss yawned.

"Good," Haymitch nodded, as he walked with her. "And you are sure no one saw you?"

"No, one saw me."

"You adhered to the plan?"

"Yes Haymitch, I adhered to the plan we devised."

"Katniss," Haymitch said in his authoritative voice. "What is the fifth rule?"

Katniss stopped walking; she couldn't believe Haymitch was going to make her recite the fifth rule.

"What is the fifth rule of the code?"

Biting her tongue she recited, "To obey authority."

"I understand you are my Queen," Haymitch said. "But I must insist you follow my rules. I only demand you follow them to keep you safe."

Katniss's ire dampened. Haymitch was the only parent she ever had and he loved her as if she were born from his loins. "I know."

They continued walking.

"Have we heard from the spy?"

"Not yet," Haymitch said. "But things cannot be rushed."

"I know, but I just wish I knew what that woman is planning. Haymitch, there are too many variables at play, and the more information we have…"

"Child, I taught you that."

Katniss shut up.

Haymitch gave her a look that showed he was as frustrated as she was.

When they arrived at her chambers, Haymitch spoke. "You should rest."

Katniss nodded before entering her chambers alone.

Rue, her chambermaid, was waiting.

"Milady," Rue said, bowing her head.

Katniss had told her not to bow, but Rue always bowed her head or curtsied, much to Katniss' frustration.

There was a hot bath, and she sighed with pure pleasure. "How was he?"

"The egg was restless, Milady," Rue said.

"Thank you for watching him."

"'Twas nothing, your Grace."

"You have returned," Peeta said. He sounded different to her ears, not childlike as if he were older.

"Good night, Rue."

"Yes Milady, you as well."

Katniss shut the door. Wearily, she faced the egg. The surface of the egg swirled with twinkling lights as if it contained the power of the universe.

"Are you upset with me?"

Katniss didn't answer back.

"I am sorry for vexing you. It is amusing; your temper is hotter than dragon flames."

Katniss could not help but smile.

"I see I amuse you as well."

"Sometimes when you are nice to me," Katniss said, hovering over the heat.

"You smell of horse, go bathe. I'd rather not die of noxious fumes." And there it was again, the familiar cheekiness.

"I will cede to your request but only because I cannot withstand my own stench," Katniss answered.

"Where did you go? I could not sense you."

"We went on another raid," Katniss muttered as she removed her clothes and folded them into a neat pile.

"I noticed Finnick did not go with you?"

"No, he did not." Katniss was too tired to take his bait. She stretched as she said, "Sejanus went with me and so did a few others."

"Sejanus, who is he?"

"He is a knight. Technically he is more of a boy than a man." Katniss yawned. "He is very polite and sweet. His mother is a wonderful cook. His father is ambitious and aspires for his boy to do great things."

"I see he does not excite you like Finnick does."

Katniss laughed as she sat in the water and sighed. Her sore muscles were relieved.

"No one excites me like Finnick does," Katniss recalled the way Finnick's muscular arms gleamed with sweat.

Peeta grumbled something.

"What did you say? I did not understand you."

"What is so appealing about that preening peacock?" Peeta asked.

"What is a peacock?"

"A bird whose male has a lot of pretty feathers and prances about like a fool."

"Finnick does not resemble a fool, Peeta. He is quite fit and tall," there was laughter in her voice as she described Finnick. Peeta's silence was golden. "Why are you so jealous of him?"

"We are bonded Katniss. I have been waiting for more than two millennia for you. I have dreamt of your coming. When your hands touched me, I knew your heart immediately. I will not willingly share that which I have been waiting for."

She did not expect this answer. She lifted her hand out of the water and felt the warm air in the room. Magic wove itself through her fingers. Her mind went to the impending war with Highland. "We do not have enough of an army. What if I die?"

"I will never allow such a thing, I swear it," he said fiercely.

"Peeta I am human, mortal. I have a date of inception and I have a date to expire. I have been fighting all of my life. And I know that this war may be my end."

"Not if I have anything to say about it," Peeta said.

"Peeta…"

"Katniss, your life and mine are irrevocably intertwined. If you are harmed, I am harmed. If you die, I shall die."

Katniss sat up, in the bathwater. "Can a dragon be killed?"

"If you should perish, I shall perish. My heart belongs to you, Katniss."

Katniss sunk low in the water. Forbidden tears came to her eyes; she could not imagine him dying.

"Do not sadden yourself, Katniss; our journey is just beginning." He said tenderly to her. "Go on and finish bathing."

"Peeta," she said, sounding a lot younger than her years. "Why did you choose me?"

"The logical answer would be you are the one true heir of the house of Ehrlich. But I chose you because your heart is as pure as the driven snow. You have no malice toward your fellow man. Now even as we speak you do not wish to harm your enemies. You still wish for peace."

"I."

"Katniss, there is evil in this land that must be purged."

Katniss could not dispute this fact. Queen Verity was becoming more tyrannical as the days passed.

"You are the only one who can save the land and its people. Together we shall bring peace to the land."

"But they have a bigger army."

"Have faith," Peeta said.

She opened her hand, summoning the sponge. It flew into her hand. She began to gently wash her skin until the stench of her horse had been removed. The conversation and the reality of their situation weigh heavily in her mind. Getting out of the tub, she dried herself and hummed.

"You are tired."

"I am," Katniss said, looking into the fire. "I am very tired, Peeta."

"Sing for me?" Peeta asked.

"How do you know I can sing?"

"Your humming is not lamentable."

Katniss chuckled as she climbed into bed.

"I may sound like a hog right before they butcher him for a feast."

Peeta chuckled. "Humor me. I was lonely without you."

Katniss sighed and pulled her legs to her chest. She understood what he meant. Tonight as she rode, she missed the sound of his voice.

"A boon."

"Fine."

She began to sing a song she heard Maude Ivory sing when she was little. "Filioli, audite vocem meam praeter vos. O virgo mulier! Rex noster puer, festina et vide; Terra tua, tibi vera. Sol et luna duce nos; Vsque ad horam gloriae nostrae."

Katniss stopped singing. "I told you I would sound atrocious." Peeta did not reply. Getting comfortable in bed she closed her eyes.

As she fell asleep she heard him say, "Your voice is as pure as your heart."

A smile bloomed on her face as she fell asleep.

Ch7 The Scrimmage

One Month Later

"Lord Undersee," his squire Owen called.

"Owen," Lord Undersee greeted. He was surveying the latest map of the area.

The Queen had ordered him to the fringes of the Mountain. There were rumors amongst the Lords that the deadliest raids were not the fault of the nomads that lived in the Midlands. It was said that they were carried out by the creatures that resided in the Verbotem Forest.

Lord Undersee didn't know what to believe. There was dissent amongst the Lords because of the higher taxes, and their lands were being raided from both the west and the east. Although the taxes hurt, Lord Undersee was devoted to his Queen.

Their Queen had conquered more lands granting her the most valiant Knights. Lord Undersee had benefited from those earlier victories. He was bequeathed land and one of the ruins to rebuild. He swore to uphold the Queen and her Code. The Code had been good to him.

The opportunity to serve the Queen was an honor. He came out of his tent and looked toward the mountains. They were steep and formidable. One could not march a large group of men without first sending scouts to mark a trail. The Queen was wise to ask him to take a small contingency. The Queen never descended into the fray of battle herself. She had a keen mind and was a fine strategist.

Lord Undersee and a small company of thirty Vassals and Knights had camped out near the village of Denby. They erected tents and made sure they were hidden in the woods so as to not be detected by those on the mountain. A full moon cycle had passed since they had been given the order to lay in wait for the enemy of his queen.

"Our scouts report that there is movement coming from the mountains."

"Show me." He followed his squire to an outcropping of trees.

"We spotted horses," his Vassal Brutus said.

"Here," Owen extended him a slim conical cylinder.

Lord Undersee took the looking glass that they used to spy from distances. He could see horses standing guard. One of the horses had a bridle. Also, wild horses were not prone to gather in the mountains. They preferred open fields of land. These horses had to belong to their enemy.

The problem Lord Undersee had was he did not know where the horses came from. The people of Midland had a myriad of entrances and tunnels in the mountains. His group once came upon an entrance, but easily became lost within the depths of the mountain. The horses were a favorable sign. It meant the enemy was going to attempt another raid.

It was still light outside, but they had less than an hour before the sunset. He counted three horses, not much of a fight. He could easily win this scrimmage. It would be a feather in his cap before all of the other Lords.

"No doubt they are getting ready for another raid," Owen said.

"Prepare the men," Lord Undersee commanded.

"Yes, My Lord," Brutus said.

Lord Undersee wanted very much to hand a trophy to his Queen. As he walked toward where his horse was kept he noted the Queen's carriage was approaching. He was surprised, it was a two-and-a-half-day ride from Highland Castle. The Queen must have stopped off at Briota Ius, Lord Cartwright's Castle for the night. The men dropped to their knees. Lord Undersee quickly bowed as the carriage came to a halt before him.

The Queen's personal guard opened the door.

"Your Grace."

"Lord Undersee," Verity answered, once she had safely exited the carriage. She wore a white gown that blended into a soft blush. She wore her breastplate, and her blonde hair was woven into her crown. At her hip, her sword. "I came to survey the situation."

"So magnanimous of you. My men will be inspired by your presence."

The Queen walked to the map on the table where he had been standing before Owen sought his attention. "Two fortnights have passed, and your last report was less than inspiring?"

"We have not seen any movement from the mountains. We have kept constant vigil, your Grace. And…"

"Is this map recent?"

The Queen cut off what he was about to say. "Yes, your Grace. It is the latest. I was studying it when I was called by my Squire."

"Oh?" Verity raised an eyebrow.

"Yes, we have new news."

"Please, do tell," Verity said.

"We were just getting ready to engage the enemy in battle."

Verity extended her hand and nodded toward the spying device he still held in his hand. He immediately handed it to her.

"I only see three horses grazing."

"Yes, we suspect they will be riding today. It is my hope to catch them unaware."

"You should not travel up the mountain," Verity said. "Your men shall be trapped."

"What do you suggest?"

The Queen examined the map. After a moment she pointed to a spot on the map. "You and fifteen of your men proceed to this point here and hide, this way when they leave the mountains, they will be surprised, and you can easily overwhelm them."

"An advantageous plan, my Queen." Lord Undersee nodded to Owen who bowed and walked away to gather the men he would be taking up the mountain.

"My five guards will be at the ready to assist you, if necessary."

"Thank you, your Grace," he bowed as he left the Queen's side.

Lord Undersee walked to his tent. "My horse," he called.

His Page Richard came with his horse. "My lord."

Lord Undersee mounted his steed and rode to meet his men. It was time to defeat the leader of the Midland.

A cool wind whipped around the Midland Mountain. On a wide ledge, there was a small patch of overgrown grass. The horses brayed as they grazed. They had a long night's voyage. Patiently waiting for their riders.

Within the Mountain, Katniss wore dark tights with padded leather trousers. She wore a gray chain mail underneath her matching breastplate. Katniss did not wear the armor the other riders wore because of her chosen weapon. She carried her bow and a sheath of arrows.

"Remember you must be careful," Haymitch said.

"I know, Haymitch." The plan was to travel to Denby. They dared not risk going further.

"Perhaps you should stay tonight."

"Haymitch, our resources are low. We have not left the mountain in a moon cycle because we have been training. We need the hay for the animals; they cannot provide us the milk we need for our young. Without the hay, we cannot fatten the animals that we slaughter to feed our people."

"Finnick can go in your stead," Haymitch suggested.

"Milady," Rue said, handing her the sword and scabbard.

"Thank you," Katniss replied as Rue helped her strap the sword and scabbard on.

"Katniss," Haymitch began.

"I am their Queen and this is my responsibility."

Haymitch was about to speak when someone called his name. They were bringing in the horses. Katniss went to her horse Arrow and began to put his saddle on. He was a magnificent beast with a white mark on his forehead that looked like an arrow.

"Perhaps Haymitch is right and you should stay," Peeta said.

"You do not have to answer to hungry children," Katniss muttered as she worked on making sure her saddle was tightly buckled.

"Katniss, you shouldn't be taking risks." Peeta sounded alarmed. "You should be waiting for me to hatch."

"Peeta, you know that I was raised with the Code of Old."

"Do not recite the Code of Old to me," he said testily, sounding like Haymitch when she outsmarted him.

Cheekily she questioned, "Have I vexed you, Peeta?"

Peeta chuckled. "My kind was there when the Code was written."

"Well then if you know the Old ways, then you can understand that heavy is the head that wears the crown. I must protect my people, especially the weak and defenseless."

"Katniss, I cannot be there to save you if something goes awry," he said.

"I know, and I'm sorry, but I must do my duty." Katniss took a deep breath.

"The dragon thinks you should stay behind?" Haymitch came up behind her.

"How?"

"When you speak to him, you mutter under your breath, and there are times you get a look on your face of clear annoyance. Other times you look as if you are far away."

"Oh," Katniss didn't even realize how strange her behavior would have appeared to her people. Only a handful knew of Peeta's existence. Including Mags, a frail old woman who knew a great deal about dragons.

"I did not realize you could communicate through your mind with him."

Katniss finished her preparations and looked to Haymitch. "I thought I was speaking out loud."

"The bond is strong between you then."

"It is," Katniss sighed.

"What did he say?"

"He argued," Katniss rolled her eyes heavenward.

"And I am assuming your answer was the same."

"Yes, he doesn't want me to leave and put my life in danger. "

"I cannot stop you, but stay alive."

Katniss nodded and mounted her horse.

Haymitch watched her joining the other riders he personally chose to ride with her. Blight, Sabyn, Wovey, Sejanus, Otto, Ginny, Wolf, Marcus, Tanner, Mizzen, and Lyme. All except for Sejanus were experienced warriors.

Something, though, did not sit right with him.

"What is the matter, Haymitch?" Finnick asked, appearing by his side. He had an apple in his hands.

"I do not feel this trip to be advantageous," Haymitch said.

"Do you want me to round up a few warriors and follow from behind?"

"Yes, do that."

Finnick nodded and walked away.

Katniss looked back to Haymitch and nodded.

The party took off and left through the main entrance of their peaceful realm. The thunder of the hooves resonated in the shaft. Normally Katniss would have felt the resounding joy of being able to leave to the world outside.

She'd only been topside a handful of times in her life. The freedom of inhaling the crisp warm air that was heavy with the smell of the peat and flowers invigorated her. This time, however, her stomach was wound tight.

Haymitch was never wrong. She needed to be vigilant.

When they came to the tunnels where they would split up, Katniss put up her hand in the signal to stop.

The riders came to a stop and waited.

"Tonight, we must be careful."

The riders looked upon one another. These raids were always dangerous.

"How so, your Grace?" Marcus asked.

"Haymitch had one of his premonitions," Katniss replied.

"What do we do now?" Lyme asked. Lyme was a Knight who was the strongest and bravest of warriors.

"We need the hay," Ginny commented.

"We shall break up and make our way topside through different entrances." Katniss decided quickly. "If there is no danger, ride to the village as planned. Take as much as you can carry and return back to Midland through a different path. Agreed?"

"Agreed," they all replied.

Katniss paused to look at each of them in the face. She then reiterated what Haymitch had told her before they left, "Guard yourselves well."

The riders all nodded.

The riders broke up into smaller groups and went into side tunnels. Sejanus, Lyme, and Wolf remained with her. Katniss spurred Arrow forward into one of the side tunnels. If there was something waiting for them there wouldn't be too many casualties.

She reached out to Peeta, "Wish me well?"

"I can protect you with our connection but you must stay in the shadow of the mountains," Peeta said. "Remember that you must stay within the shadow, I cannot help you otherwise."

Katniss felt a surge of energy coursing through her veins as she rode swiftly through the tunnel. When they came to the exit, Katniss slowed down. They were on the eastern side of the mountain. The farming fields were located to their west, around three hundred or so yards.

Katniss leaned forward, her ears catching the sound of something faint.

"What is it, Milady?" Sejanus asked.

"Do you hear that?" Katniss attuned her ears.

"It is the sound of battle," Lyme said.

"Your Grace, we need to get you to safety," Wolf urged.

"I cannot."

"It's not safe," Wolf tried once again.

Katniss closed her eyes, wishing she could see them. Things around her morphed. She could suddenly see things that were happening hundreds of yards away. It was dark out yet everything was bright as day as if she were standing in the midst of the battle.

Otto, Blight, and Ginny were not on their horses. The horses were fleeing. Her people were fighting against the Queen's men who wore the traditional white smock with the Queen's silver crest. Sabyn was atop of her horse and had slain a man, two lay on the ground, and one was injured. In the end, there were too many and they dragged Sabyn from her horse. Sabyn slapped her horse's hindquarters and it flew back into the mountain with the others' horses. "Otto, Sabyn, Blight, and Ginny were outnumbered and captured." Katniss could see them being restrained before a bald man with no neck slung them each over the backs of the Queen men's horses. "They are taking them to their camp."

"What do we do?" Lyme asked her hand on the pommel of her sword.

"We rescue them," Katniss said.

They crept out of the entrance quietly. Katniss could see Queen Verity's men leading her own people to a campsite hidden in the trees. She was no longer within the shadow of the mountain. She could no longer feel Peeta with her. Katniss was alone and must survive by her own wits.

"What is the plan?" Lyme asked.

"We follow them. Find where they are keeping them and bring them home," Katniss said.

They moved just outside the enemy's campsite. There were lit torches scattered throughout the camp allowing them to see what was happening. They unmounted their horses and hid in the trees. They watched the guards take Otto, Sabyn, Blight, and Ginny down from the horses that carried them. They were taken to a centrally located tent and were forced to kneel.

Katniss's heartbeat increased as she watched the tent's flaps open up. A tall beautiful blonde woman with a crown woven into her hair walked out. All of the men in the camp bowed or kneeled. This woman was Queen Verity. This is the woman Katniss was fighting against.

"Your Grace," a man dressed in richly colored robes called. "These are the Midland rabble we caught at the foot of the mountains."

"Excellent," the Queen exclaimed.

"Do you know who I am?"

Silence greeted her.

"I am your lawful ruler, Queen Verity."

There was no answer.

"I will spare your lives if you tell me who is your leader?"

If they didn't speak there was no doubt the Queen would certainly torture them. Her cruel treatment of her own people was legendary. Katniss could only imagine what horrors awaited her people.

"How many are there?" Katniss asked quietly.

"I have counted ten and six, but there must be more because there are easily nearly thirty horses," Lyme whispered.

"I saw them bring one into that tent over yonder," Wolf said.

Katniss turned to Wolf, Sejanus, and Lyme. "We need to get them out. I will make my way to that tree there and attack from the air. Wolf, you set all of their horses free and spook them into their midst. Lyme, you retrieve our people. Sejanus, you stay with our horses."

With the plan in place, Katniss knew her rain of arrows from the trees would be the most effective. As she moved about she saw a shadow hiding behind a tree. Katniss recognized him by his honeyed saltwater scent. "Finnick?"

Finnick grabbed her.

"Your Grace, what are you doing? You are outnumbered? Queen Verity is yards away."

"Finnick, I have a plan."

"Of course you do," Finnick muttered.

"How many are with you?"

"Seven, including myself," Finnick said.

"Wolf is going to let loose their horses into their camp. I need three of your men to climb the trees and shoot into their camp to cause more confusion. Lyme is going to go in to get our people and I need someone to have her back. Sejanus is there," Katniss said, pointing behind her. "Waiting for us with our horses."

"Katniss…" Finnick's words died on his lips as they heard the horses stampede the camp. There was no time for Finnick to speak to the men who came with him.

"Just have them clear a path for Lyme, and once she has Ginny, Blight, Otto, and Sabyn free, get out," Katniss urged, pushing Finnick away.

"QUICK, SAVE THE QUEEN!" A man shouted.

"TAME THE HORSES!"

Katniss quickly ran to the tree and climbed up. Another wave of horses came in as well and had sent the entire camp into upheaval. She could see Lyme making her way toward Ginny. From her vantage point, Katniss could see two men had spotted Lyme. She fired two arrows in quick succession at the two men who were running toward Lyme, swords drawn. They fell to their knees. As soon as the men fell it sent the camp into a further tizzy.

"WE'RE BEING ATTACKED!" A man yelled.

Finnick and his men attacked the camp. The chaos they unleashed by releasing the horses was replaced by the sound of clanging metal.

From her vantage point, Katniss could see the Queen had a sword in her hands but she was not using it, instead the woman was hiding behind some barrels. Lyme freed their people and was leading them away. Katniss was making sure their paths were clear, satisfied when they had made it out. Katniss then noted below that Finnick was fighting a brute of a man when another approached behind him.

From the safety of the tree, she shot Finnick's would-be assailant in the throat. Finnick drove his sword into the belly of the man he was fighting.

There was a torch nearby. Katniss climbed down to the nearest branch, hung down, lit one of her arrows, and sent it into the center tent where the so-called Queen was hiding.

The Queen screamed for water.

Katniss scrambled down the tree and ran with Finnick by her side. The others saw them leaving and started to make their way out as well. Katniss stopped at a torch and lit another arrow and shot it at another tent; it went up in flames and one of the trees caught fire.

Katniss caught the Queen watching her, but neither woman acknowledged the other. Instead, she turned and ran back to where the horses were. Finnick was atop her horse Arrow and was headed her way. He leaned down, extending his hand to her. Katniss grabbed his hand and was hefted up on top of her steed in front of Finnick. Together they joined the others.

As soon as she was within the shadow of the Mountain she began to glow as her connection with Peeta was reconciled.

"ARE YOU WELL!" Peeta's voice was panicked.

"I'm alive and well. We are all safe," Katniss sent back.

"Behind you!" Peeta warned.

Katniss looked back around Finnick. Her eyesight was enhanced once more. She could see there were four of Queen Verity's men following them on horseback. "We're being followed!" She shouted.

"What do you want me to do?" Finnick shouted back.

The queen's men were determined to catch them and would follow them into the tunnels. She and Finnick could try to lose them, but Katniss did not want to take the chance. "Slow down!"

"What?!" Finnick shouted.

"Slow down!" She shouted again.

Finnick slowed down and Katniss lept from the horse. "GO AHEAD!" Katniss ordered. She wanted to make sure they were safe. They spurred their steeds to move quickly to safety.

Standing to her full height, she located the four riders. Katniss felt a burst of energy pooling in her middle.

"Blast them," Peeta suggested.

Katniss concentrated on channeling her magic to her fingers. She yelled, "Prohibere," and a burst of magic exploded from the amulet and she used her hands to direct it at the riders. The Queen's riders were blasted off their horses.

Katniss could feel her energy waning. "Peeta," she whispered.

"Mea Carum," Peeta replied. She felt warmth spread through her body, giving her strength.

Katniss turned around and ran to where Finnick was waiting for her. "Go!" she shouted as she grabbed Finnick's hand and was hoisted back up on the horse.

Arrow shot forward into the nearest entrance to the caves. They rode at breakneck speed through the tunnel. When they made it back, Katniss turned to Haymitch, "Did the other riders get through?"

"Yes, and some have already returned with hay."

Katniss smiled, but then everything faded to black.

CH8 Revelation

Same Night

Verity was livid.

The Witch had told her to come out here. She said it was imperative for her to be present. Verity had listened to the woman and set out to the camp.

Verity thought that it would be a quick visit. One with a victorious outcome. Instead, it was a total fiasco.

She was sitting on a stool that was provided for her.

Verity stewed.

She watched Lord Undersee and his men battle the flames. Her once pristine dress was dirty. Her crown was askew, and her hair was a hornet's nest. She had twigs, and leaves and Merlin knew what else, was within it.

Lord Undersee, after rescuing her from behind the barrels, had left her by the ridge with two of her guards. She watched four of his men take off after the two Midlandians who had just escaped from their camp.

Verity closed her eyes and recalled the gorgeous male specimen and the female archer. The man was tall, muscular, chiseled, no doubt a man who knew how to pleasure a woman. The archer still looked like a child. She was slight, not very tall or impressive, and she wasn't pretty. There was something about the protective way that the man held the archer. It was as if they were lovers.

Mirthlessly she pulled a twig out of her hair. The archer stuck in her mind. Her skill with a bow was impressive. She shot arrow after arrow with quick, precise efficiency. Her flaming arrow made its mark, causing the fire, setting a dead tree to burn.

It was proof that the Midlandian's troops were well trained. Something her own were not. It reinforced the idea that she needed a capable army.

"Your Grace."

Verity looked up to see a young boy, no doubt a Page, kneeling before her with a chalice of water.

Taking the chalice, she drank deeply.

The young boy slowly backed away; his head bowed.

Verity breathed heavily as her mind began to replay what happened. She could not believe how quickly things had deteriorated. One moment she was about to interrogate a woman from the ragtag Midland raiding party, the next she was being pulled away as horses ran amok. It was all a carefully orchestrated rescue plan.

"Your Grace." Lord Undersee bowed deeply.

Verity nodded at the man.

"The fire is finally out."

Verity looked over his shoulder. The camp was burned. Thankfully this region did not have a dry summer. If the brush was dry, the entire region could have burned down.

"I want to know how this happened?" Verity demanded.

"They used the cover of darkness to their advantage." Lord Undersee did not look up, his head was still bowed. "Their leader must be cunning to outwit…"

"Outwit…" Verity growled. "Outwit whom?"

"I…I…I.." Lord Undersee stammered. "Whoever leads them, they had been…able to,"

"Tread careful, Lord Undersee."

Verity had gotten a look at whom she believed to be the new leader of Midland. It was a horrific beast appearing from the darkness. At first, Verity thought the woman was a man. She was over six-foot tall with a thick neck, cropped hair, and a muscular build. It was her face that betrayed her true sex. Given the time of night, a man would have had hair on his face. In the firelight her face looked soft and clean; it also revealed the leader to be an older woman.

"Outwit my men." Lord Undersee quickly said.

Verity raised an eyebrow.

"His men snuck up behind my Vassal guarding the horses and knocked him out. Spooked the horses before letting them lose in our camp. I myself removed you from danger."

"Was there only one man guarding over thirty horses?" Verity asked. It was irresponsible to have just one man in charge of so many horses. Lord Undersee needed at least three to four men.

"One Vassal, your Grace."

Verity stood, wanting to kick him. Lord Undersee winced as she neared him, but Verity walked away. She looked into the face of the men that were left. There had been thirty men, not including her five personal guards, or Lord Undersee and his Page. Lord Undersee only had only ten and four men left, and the boy. Four riders were out there following that riffraff. One of her guards was injured and another was dead.

Her hands balled out of pure anger.

The leader of Midland was an experienced warrior. She exploited the weaknesses in security. She then marched into camp easily and released the prisoners with fewer soldiers, half of whom were women. The Midland leader battled alongside her people. Whilst Verity hid herself behind some barrels. She noted how the Midlandians protected their leader and did not leave her side until she was out of their camp. None of Verity's subjects came to find her and stow her away to safety.

"No one paid heed to my person. I was left vulnerable, nearly burned when their archer set your tent on fire," Verity said facing the darkened night sky. There was something in the air that made the hair on the back of her neck stand up. As if some door had been torn open tonight.

"For that, I should be put to death," Lord Undersee said.

Verity turned her eyes to him. He was right, his inept leadership was at the heart of this fracas. But he had found her in the end and brought her to safety, and set two guards with her.

He also did, on her order, send out four men after the last two Midlandians who had left the camp. Verity believed she could have broken the young girl she was going to interrogate. Someone needed to pay.

"Bring me the Vassal that was guarding the horses."

"Yes, your Grace," Lord Undersee said, turning to a man with his hand in a sling.

The others stepped away from the man. The man paled.

"Step forward," Verity said.

The man fell to his knees.

"If not for you, we would not have been attacked and lost many valuable Vassals and Knights."

"Your Grace," the man said terrified.

She took out her sword and ran it through him. His eyes went wide as his life drained from his face. Blood splattered on her dress and the man fell to the side.

"If you fail me, this will be your payment," Verity screamed at the gathered men before stomping away.

She stood at the ridge peering into the darkness. Suddenly a flash of bright light blinded her. It was followed by a rush of wind that knocked her over. Verity tried to grab onto something, but there was nothing in front of her.

"Your Grace!" Lord Undersee quickly caught her and helped her stand upright.

It took a few minutes for her eyesight to come back. As soon as it did she looked to Lord Undersee. "What was that!?"

"I do not know," Lord Undersee said.

"Do you think they are dead?" Verity whispered.

"I do not know."

"Lord Undersee, take two of my men and go up there. I want to know what happened."

Lord Undersee nodded, bowed, and left.

Verity was left waiting. "The rest of you salvage what you can. Make sure that we have shelter for the night. Set up a night watch. And someone, bury the dead."

The others began to do as she ordered. When Lord Undersee returned, she was comfortably sitting in her own tent. She had been using Lord Undersee's tent when the attacking Midlandians set it on fire. She had bathed and was wearing a blush-colored gown with white embroidered flowers and a white fur cape.

"Your Grace," Lord Undersee bowed.

"Well?"

"We found their bodies." Lord Undersee stopped speaking.

Her heartbeat furiously in her chest as terror filled her bones. "What happened to them?"

"They were burned. Unrecognizable. The Midlandians have some sort of weapon we've never seen before."

Verity stood and grasped the edge of the table. She turned around and faced Lord Undersee. "What are you not telling me?"

"Their flesh was burned, but their clothing was not singed. It did not even smell of smoke. Their horses were not even harmed."

Her skin was pin pickled. She expected them to be dead, but she didn't expect this. What sort of weapon did Midland have that could burn someone's flesh off but left their clothing untouched?

Verity wanted to go home, but it was dangerous traveling at night. Her mind grasped at straws until she came to one conclusion. The Witch would know what to do. She would have the answers.

"Tomorrow we leave for Highland Castle at first light." Verity sat down and wanted nothing more than to be hidden within the walls of her gilded cage.

PART 3:

Ch9 The Birth

Forty-Eight hours after the Scrimmage

Forty-eight hours slipped by quickly. Peeta was silent in that time. She had not heard from him since the battle at the foot of the mountains. It was true, she had not woken up until yesterday afternoon, but he would have said something by now, especially since Finnick had brought her a meal while she was in bed. The egg had become red hot. Katniss wondered if the fire was getting too hot. "Peeta, can you hear me?"

The egg moved and she felt the compulsion to pick him up. Her hands glowed as they neared the fire. She was not burned when she touched the egg. Gently, she lifted it from the stone cradle.

"Please be alive."

At that moment Finnick and Haymitch entered her room.

"Milady, is that advisable?" Finnick looked as if he was going to kick the egg from her hand.

The egg began to crack and Katniss wanted to scream as she felt the pain Peeta was feeling. Katniss gritted her teeth because she didn't want to show Haymitch or Finnick weakness.

She doubled over in pain.

"Haymitch!" Finnick panicked as he caught Katniss. "What is happening?"

"It must be the bonding," Haymitch said.

Katniss began to shiver.

"Milady, let go," Finnick ordered.

"No she cannot let go of the egg," Haymitch said. "It will kill them both."

"I have been waiting a long time for you," Peeta said, his voice was deep like that of a man's. "You have the heart of your father, Aldrich of Everdeen, the Just, and the fortitude of your mother, Astra of Ehrlich, the wise."

"Peeta?" her mind called out.

"I will answer all of your questions.

Katniss saw herself flying through the air. She sat atop a giant beast with wings. His leathery skin was smooth to the touch, but it was hard. No doubt an arrow would not penetrate the scales.

Looking down, she saw how small the trees looked. Frightened, she closed her eyes.

"Do not be afraid," Peeta said. "I will always protect you with my life. I swear it."

Katniss held on for dear life, squeezing his neck.

They flew higher until only clouds were beneath them. They reached a castle set high upon a mountain peak and landed. There were two women standing at the entrance, both fair with hair spun of gold. One had the same amulet Katniss wore.

The woman smiled at her, and her eyes were filled with awe. "Mother?"

"Daughter?"

The woman by her side gave her mother an annoyed look. Katniss frowned and it came to her that the other woman could not see her.

"You are correct, only your mother can see you."

"She's so beautiful," Katniss whispered.

"You are of the people of the Sky," her mother said. "You ride a golden dragon with blue eyes and blue underbelly."

Katniss turned around but could not see Peeta.

"Nobel Draco cor suum solum dabit cordi nobili," her mother said.

Katniss tried to translate her mother's ancient words. "A noble dragon give me…"

"Close." Her mother grabbed her hand, "Tell me how old you are?"

Katniss wanted to tell her but she wanted something more than just pleasant and worthless prattle. Squeezing her mother's hand she said, "I need the truth. I need to know what happened to you and to my father Aldrich. I want to know why I was raised by Haymitch."

Her mother's eyes widened then she looked over her shoulder. Then she nodded and said, "I cannot tell you about your past, Katniss, for my future has not happened."

Katniss felt crushed.

"Patience child, your dragon is very special. You are bonded in the ancient way…your dragon would give his life for you." Her eyes suddenly became bright blue and glowed. Her voice sounded like the voice of thunder, "When the time is right, you and your dragon will become one and you shall reign over the land peacefully."

"Mother, I love you. I have loved you from my first breath. Never doubt that."

"And I, you, my daughter." She then gave her a sad smile.

A tear slipped down Katniss' face.

"Peeta," she called and she felt her heart rate increase. Felt her skin become heated. Suddenly, she was pulled and brought back.

Upon opening her eyes she felt weak. Her knees buckled and the world before her spun.

"YOUR HIGHNESS!" Finnick yelled as he caught her.

The egg fell by her side and was pulsating an intensely bright light.

"My lord, she burns with fever!" Finnick could not hide the panic from his voice.

"It has begun," Haymitch calmly said. He took off his cloak and wrapped it around the egg, then put it on Katniss' lap.

"How can you be so calm at a time like this?"

"Lay her on the bed, make sure you do not touch the egg, place it by her."

Finnick nodded, lifted Katniss up, and ran to his Queen's chambers. Haymitch followed close behind.

Haymitch closed his fist. He found Rue waiting anxiously by the door, "Go find Mags."

"Aye, My Lord," Rue said, running.

He entered the room, feeling helpless. Katniss lay sweaty and pale. Her fingers were curled on top of the egg. Haymitch laid his hands on Katniss' forehead. And his hand burned. "She's burning."

"Look Haymitch, the egg has cracked, do you think it was from the fall?"

"No, he is hatching."

Mags walked in smiling gently. Her long silvery hair trailed behind her. Her weathered face had seen the full breadth of the human experience. She settled her hand on Finnick's hand.

"She will be fine. Her spirit has to go on a journey. She cannot finish the bonding without learning about her past. If she is not complete…she and her dragon cannot be joined in the way of the Sky Denizens."

"What do we do?" Haymitch asked.

"We make her comfortable, the room has to be warm," Mags said.

She held her hands over Katniss and the egg. "I have not seen a connection between a dragon and its rider in such a long time. He protects her even in this spiritual journey. He cares for her deeply." Mags chuckled.

"What?" Finnick asked.

Mags laughed as she sat down. "She needs an extra blanket."

Finnick moved to get one.

"No, not you, Finnick," Mags said. "Haymitch, get her the blanket."

CH10 Highland

A Day and a Half Later

Two Falcon's had arrived at Highland Castle today, one for Madge and the other for the Witch. Adeline was keeping an eye on the Witch. The woman seemed agitated after receiving the message via Falcon.

Adeline spotted the Witch. She followed behind discreetly listening for the clicking sound of the woman's cane as she moved quickly through the corridors of the castle. Adeline slipped through the empty corridor following her. Her hands were clammy. She needed to discover if the Witch had sought out an army for the Queen. It was fortunate that the Queen was gone. She had left to check on the progress of Lord Undersee.

"Delly," Madge called. She stood with Lady Crane, a woman as venomous as a spider.

Adeline winced when she heard Madge call for her. She loathed when people called her that.

"Madge," Adeline greeted.

"How dare you address me by my given name as if we were familiar and of the same rank."

Madge wasn't a bad sort, but when she was with Lady Crane, she acted just like her.

Lady Crane smirked at her, raising her nose at Adeline. She circled her. "With all the land and property your father has, you would think he would dress you in riches."

"We've had to make sacrifices to be able to pay the taxes the queen has levied upon us. I would rather pay the queen than spend money on a gown," Adeline replied.

Madge became incensed. Recently she had a gown made for her with white and silver embroidery. It cost more than the purchase of a horse.

"Delly, we've had word that the Queen returns," Madge bit out.

"I can prepare her quarters and make sure she and the rest of the group have a meal and warm baths waiting for them," Adeline replied.

The Queen used her noble ladies as if they were servants. Adeline did not mind the work; it gave her access to the Queen's innermost circle where she could retrieve information.

"Yes, you always were good at the domestic things," Lady Crane laughed. "Come along Lady Undersee."

As the two women left, Adeline once more oriented herself to find the old Witch. She quickly looked out the window. She spotted her in the inner ward. Quickening her steps, she made her way to the inner ward, then slowed down to act as if she was mindlessly ambling in the courtyard.

It was imperative that she keep an inconspicuous profile. From what Adeline had gathered, Lord Undersee had been sent on a secret mission to camp near the village of Denby. Adeline knew instantly they were trying to spy on the Midlandians. Taking a deep breath, she crossed to the inner ward making careful to appear preoccupied.

Her father had been a follower of the old ways. He upheld the old Code that held people to a higher standard. A Code where chivalry and honor meant something to people. Kings and Queens of old ruled the land with fairness based on the code.

They understood the old ways. Magic was no secret; it was not something to be feared, but rather something to be revered and trusted.

These days, the avarice of gluttony, vanity, and deceit had become the vanguard of their society. The people of Midland still upheld the old ways. There were many Lords who followed Queen Verity for fear of retribution. Their ranks were growing.

Adeline checked each building to see if the witch was inside. It was the sound of horses braying uncontrollably that caused her to walk toward the stable. When she found the witch giving orders for a carriage and horses to be drawn for her, Adeline hid in the shadows listening.

"Quickly," the Witch ordered, tapping the cane she used to walk about on the cobbled floor.

"Aye, Mistress," the groom said as he and four other men prepared the horses.

"I must get to the Queen," the Witch murmured.

Adeline knew what she was about to do was dangerous. She walked into the stables. "Oh, what is amiss, Mistress?"

"What brings you to the stables?" the Witch asked.

Even though the old The Witch was blind, she was giving Adeline a curious look. It was a rumor that the old Witch could read minds. Adeline brought to her memory lists of things that needed to be done in preparation for the Queen's return.

"Lady Undersee and Lady Crane received word that the queen was on her way back. They tasked me with the responsibilities to make the castle resplendent for the Queen's return. I need to make sure the stables are ready to receive the horses and then, of course, make sure the Great Hall has fresh linens…" Adeline opened her mouth to say more but the witch waved her hand.

"Enough, child."

A Page ran in from the inner ward. He looked no older than Adeline's brother Daniel.

"Mistress," the Page said, kneeling on the floor and handing the Witch a parchment.

The Witch snatched the paper from the boy.

Adeline noticed it contained no noble seal. The wax seal resembled a skull. She turned to speak to one of the grooms. "The Queen will be arriving along with Lord Undersee's men. I need you and your men to have enough feed for all of the horses."

"There will be no time for that," the Witch said. "The Queen will need provisions delivered to Lord Undersee's castle."

"Yes, Mistress," Adeline said bowing.

"Call forth Lady Undersee and Lady Crane. No doubt Queen Verity will need her consorts with her. Make sure you are with them; she will need her servant as well."

"Yes Mistress," Adeline said. She peeked through her lashes at the folded parchment the woman held. She could read several lines.

"Good," the Witch said as she was helped inside of the carriage.

Adeline had to get the news to Haymitch. The Queen had hired mercenaries to invade the Midlandians.

CH11 Dragon

A day and a Half Later

"The people are worried, Haymitch," Finnick said. "She's been ill for nearly two days."

Haymitch knew this took time. Katniss was strong, her magic was strong, and her heart was strong. But this could take a moon cycle and they did not have the time.

"Rumors are rampant that Katniss is dying," Finnick said. His eyes traveled over her lovely face.

Their people were scared because they feared invasion. Having Lord Undersee capture four of their warriors was proof that Queen Verity was going to attack them. Without Katniss to lead them, they would not be able to survive. "Tell them she is recovering."

Finnick looked at him and nodded before leaving.

Haymitch felt a tear slip from his eye. She looked gray laying on the bed. "She will live, won't she?"

Haymitch looked to Mags, who was busily singing and humming.

"Do not fret, Queen Katniss is on the last leg of her journey. Her dragon is protecting her."

On the bed, Katniss's head tossed and turned as she was led into another journey. She came to a river surrounded by the forest, the wind playing with her dark tresses. As she walked on the stones in the river. There was a cave in front of her.

"I'm waiting for you," Peeta's voice faltered through her mind.

Katniss walked forward into the cave. It was hot within the cave. She stood dressed in white watching as molten earth gathered around her. A figure began to form out of the fire. He was muscular with blond hair and blue eyes. His shoulders were broad and well defined.

"Peeta?"

He walked up to her and held out a hand to her.

"Are you a man?" Katniss questioned as she put her hand in his.

"I wish I were, Mea Carum. Where a dragon's treasure lies is where his heart lies."

"And where is your treasure?"

"Right in front of me." Peeta placed a gentle kiss on her hand.

His lips were warm on her skin and it caused her eyes to grow wide as she realized just how much Peeta meant to her. Even though they did not kiss on the lips as she had seen others do, this was far more intimate. She felt her cheeks heat up.

"Come, there is much more to see."

Katniss was once more in the air. "Where to this time?"

"Your father awaits you," Peeta said.

They landed in a field. There was a great forest in the distance. There were tents with flags with the image of her mother's amulet flying in the air. Katniss saw a man sitting by his lonesome.

He was handsome and he had dark hair and gray eyes just like hers. He was tall and lean. His hand sat on top of the pommel of his sword. This man was a warrior, even when resting, he was ready for battle.

"Sire," a man with a beard approached.

"Castor?" The man greeted.

"We are ready," Castor said.

"My lord, if we succeed, then by morning you shall have your daughter back."

"My wife died giving birth to my only babe," he said.

"Her death will not go in vain," Castor said.

"Yes," he said. "Tell Haymitch I will be there momentarily."

"Yes, my King," Castor said bowing.

Katniss gasped. "Peeta…"

"Go to him," Peeta said.

Katniss moved through the field. "Father?"

He looked up and his eyes widened. "Katniss, you're all grown up. You're as beautiful as your mother."

Katniss smiled gently. "I'm afraid my mother was more beautiful than I."

"I disagree," he said, touching her cheek. His eyes traveled over her face. "My beloved child. You are free from the hands of Snow and Gaul."

"Who are they?"

"They are the villains who destroyed our happiness in their bid for power. Your mother, Katniss…"

"I know she's no longer with you."

"If you are from the future, then I am not with you?"

Katniss shook her head. "Haymitch reared me along with Finnick of Odair."

"My squire?"

"Yes, he is valiant and trustworthy. He found my dragon."

Her father's eyes widened. "Your mother said that you would be a rider just like her mother before her. She said you were powerful just like I am."

"How did Snow and Gaul steal what is rightfully ours, father?"

"Lies, my daughter, lies…"

"I need the truth, father."

"Your mother's sister wanted the throne for herself. Your aunt stole you and handed you over to Coriolanus Snow. She allowed for Snow and his army to invade the Castle in the Sky. Gaul didn't want you, but she wanted to have the heart of a dragon."

"I don't understand. I thought a dragon and their rider were bonded."

"A dragon will not share their heart if the person doesn't have a pure heart."

"My aunt did not have a pure heart?"

"No, she was envious. Her dragon never gave his heart in her service. Gaul knew this and killed your aunt and as your aunt's dragon lay dying she took its heart. A dragon's heart is steeped in magic and Gaul consumed the magic to become more powerful than I. The only thing she fears is a dragon's fire. That will kill her."

"Aldridge?" Haymitch called.

Her father looked over her shoulder. "Your dragon is strong." Her father then took a dagger and cut his hands and a wave of energy seeped out of the wound and enveloped a large form behind her. "Donum tibi concedo, si heredem meum serves. Concedo tibi unum velle." Her father fell to his knees.

"Father!" Katniss said, alarmed.

"No, my daughter, I am fine. Go with your dragon."

"I love you father," Katniss rushed out.

"I love you too, my precious child."

Katniss smiled sadly before she was pulled away once again. She moaned, feeling parched. "Water," she whispered.

"Quick, fetch me fresh water," Finnick said.

Suddenly Katniss cried in pain. Blinding energy shot out of her body and she was levitating over the bed, hovering over the egg.

"HAYMITCH!" Finnick cried.

Haymitch came running in.

"No need to be alarmed. This is the final stage. The dragon is being born," Mag's said from the chair.

The egg cracked and broke and a small dragon came out. It cried and it immediately sought out Katniss. She floated back down to the bed and the dragon curled up next to her side. It hissed at Finnick before laying its head on her shoulder.

Mags chuckled. "Hello little one, you have been waiting for a long time for a heart like hers."

The dragon mewled and flapped his wings.

Katniss opened her eyes and smiled tiredly before shutting them again.

"She will be fine, though we are going to need a bigger room for her and her dragon," Mags said.

"What do you mean?" Haymitch asked.

"That dragon will age quickly to mirror her in years. Within the next week, he will grow and become an adult. And he will demand to be by her side at all times."

Finnick turned to Mags. "Will we still be able to train?"

"Not with you, he doesn't like you," Mags said tenderly. "You, my dear boy, will have to find another girl to marry."

Rue came into the room with a parchment in her hand. "My Lord, this just arrived."

Haymitch took the scroll and broke the seal. He quickly read it. "The Queen has hired the mercenaries. Our spy is sure that they saw the seal."

"When do you think they will get these extra men?" Finnick asked.

"I don't know, but I am hoping that our spy will tell us soon," Haymitch replied.

CH12 Lord Undersee

That Evening

Verity had been waiting nearly three days at Lord Undersee's Castle. One of the wheels of her carriage had broken on the way to the castle. She had been tired of traveling and wanted a warm place to sleep. Then the storms came. Verity was convinced this territory was cursed. Driving rain and thunder prevented her from reaching Highland Castle. She loathed it here.

Today was the first day that it did not rain or thunder. Verity hated his small castle. It had thick musty walls, and it never was warm no matter how many fires were lit. She sat in the great hall in a raspberry-colored gown with silver embroidery and white crystals. She wore her crown, as her fingers tapped on the chair.

"Your Grace," Lord Undersee's Page came forward. "A carriage approaches."

Verity stood. Everyone in the hall stopped and bowed as she walked to the entrance.

Her questions about that night persisted as she waited for the Witch to arrive. As soon as the carriage stopped at the entrance to Lord Undersee's castle Verity finally breathed easy. Behind the Witch were more carriages. Lady Crane and Lady Undersee stepped out. Behind them was Lady Cartwright. Verity rolled her eyes at the fat heifer.

"Your Grace," the Witch said.

"Bring her to my chambers," Verity said, marching inside.

A Page went out to help the blind woman out of the carriage and into the castle. The Witch was led up the stairs and down a corridor to a private room. These were Lord Undersee's private chambers. He had given them to Queen Verity whilst she stayed there. The women were tightening up the strings of the bed.

"Get out," Verity ordered.

"Yes, your Grace," the women said as they left the room.

"What took you so long," Verity said.

"I came as soon as you called."

Verity paced and then she said. "I have not been able to sleep. I have not been able to eat."

"Your grace, what has you in such a state?" the Witch questioned.

"We lost so poorly against Midland."

The Witch did not speak, only leaned on her cane.

"I need an army."

"You have an army," the Witch said.

"This rabble does not an army make."

"My army is so poorly trained that they are incapable of stopping the weakest of Midland's warriors."

"I understand your need."

"I need an army, Witch."

"Fine, I will show you what you need. But I need to know what happened that night?"

"I will tell you all you need to know." Verity stood straighter, "As soon as you provide me with a capable army."

"Is there a window in this room?" the Witch asked.

Verity took the old blind Witch by the hand and guided her to the window. The old woman stood and smelled the air, before she waved her hand.

"Revelare," she chanted.

The sky opened around them and suddenly they were standing at the port. Verity could see the Iron Sea and the ships traveling to the Village of Ion.

"You will soon have a legion at your disposal. They will be arriving, weather permitting, in a fortnight. "

Verity laughed at the sight of the ships. Soon she was going to be able to bring down a mountain. Taking a deep breath, she smiled.

"Now what happened that night?" the Witch demanded.

"Lord Undersee followed my strict instructions. We were able to capture four raiders. They brought them back to camp so that I could question them."

"Then what happened?"

"One moment, I was speaking to Lord Undersee, then the next, we were attacked." Verity stood still and grasped one of the ornate bedposts. "None of the men who were with me were able to put up a fight. Out of thirty-five men, only eleven survived. Some succumbed to the injuries they received when putting out the flames. The Midlandians didn't have a great number, a handful from what I could tell."

"You are angry, and rightfully so."

"You should have seen their leader."

"You saw their leader?"

"Yes, I did." Verity looked off into the distance. "She was a tall woman, more beast than a woman. She had a square face and wielded a sword as if it were an extension of her hand. Their people are better trained, have more discipline, and are loyal to her. She marched into the camp and plucked her people like daisies and marched back out of the camp."

"Describe her to me once more?"

Verity stopped moving. She stood before the old blind bat. "I have already described her to you."

"Describe their leader to me once more," the Witch demanded.

Verity sighed. "The woman was tall, muscular, and with blond cropped hair. At first, I thought her to be a man."

The Witch looked disturbed.

"What are you not telling me?"

"That woman you fought was not their leader."

"How could it not be, she was strong, they protected her."

"No, that woman was not their leader," the Witch repeated.

"I am telling you, I saw that woman. She is the one they follow."

"SILENCE," the Witch said, pounding her cane on the floor.

Verity became quiet.

"Come here child," the Witch ordered.

Verity came to stand before the Witch. She watched as her leathery hand reached out right in front of her face. The woman's hands slowly mapped out her face with her fingers. When her fingers connected with her temples, Verity felt someone invade her mind.

She began reliving everything from that night, the screams of the men, the braying of the horses. The muscular man with the golden face. The Witch rewound her memories over and examined each one over and over until she felt something warm trickling out of her nose.

"Please." Verity could feel the Witch's power trapping her. She could not move, not until released.

"I have not found what I am looking for."

Suddenly the Witch stopped at the explosion. She slowly played the memory backward until she came to a stop at the insignificant archer.

Verity hadn't paid much attention to the child. She could feel the Witch concentrating on the face of the archer.

The Witch gasped and backed away.

"What is it?"

"She is your enemy, the real leader of Midland. She is cunning and she must be killed before she grows powerful."

Verity wrapped her arms around herself as her skin erupted in tiny cold prickles. "How do we stop her? She has the ability to burn men without touching their clothing.

"We need to get back to the castle. Today, we'll leave today."

Adeline stood outside in the corridor. Her suspicions were confirmed. She clutched in her hand several tics, a bag made out of linen with hay inside that was used as a pillow or if long enough, a bed. She hadn't been able to send the message to Haymitch. She had to get them the information as soon as possible.

That meant she had to deliver it herself. She could send a message to her father. He was helping to amass an army for Midland. They could help on the day of the siege.

She pushed away from the door and walked carefully to another door and found an abandoned room just in time. The door of the Queen's temporary lodgings opened. Adeline kneeled and bowed her head as she tried to calm her nerves.

After some time she began preparing the room.

"We found her," Lady Crane shouted when the room to the door burst open.

Adeline had just finished arranging the bedding for the night.

"What…" Lord Undersee said, stepping into the room. "You were fixing the accommodations for the evening?"

Adeline bowed her head. "Yes, Milord."

Lady Crane huffed in frustration and left the room.

"The room smells fresh," Lord Undersee said.

"It's the anise, Milord, it is an old wives tale; it supposedly aids in good sleep."

"My wife believed in such things," Lord Undersee said. His wife had passed a few months back.

"Your wife was a great lady, Milord." Adeline wished Madge was as kind as her mother. Their mothers were once great friends.

Lord Undersee nodded. He cleared his throat. "Is there anything I can do for you, Lady Cartwright?"

"Perhaps I can," Adeline began.

"Go on."

"If it is possible, I would like to send my father a message. He worries over me."

"I shall lend you my personal falcon."

"Thank you, Milord."

PART 4:

CH13 The Army's

The next morning Katniss stood in front of her mirror. Peeta was laying down, his eyes were attentively following her.

She pulled a loose strand of hair behind her ear. Katniss needed to make an appearance to let the people know she was well. She dressed carefully in a smoky colored gown with silver and pearl embellishments. Her hair was down, and she looked regal but not as beautiful as Queen Verity.

Squaring her shoulders, she put her crown atop her head. She needed to look strong and healthy to her people. They were scared and with good reason. It was now known that Queen Verity had a powerful Witch by her side.

"You look beautiful, my queen," Peeta said.

"I'm nervous."

"Don't be, besides, they'll be too busy looking at me."

"Oh really?"

He stood up and stretched. "Well look at me. I am a beautiful specimen. Gold with blue underbelly, blue eyes, impressive teeth."

"Teeth?"

"Well yes." He flashed her his teeth as if he was smiling.

Katniss laughed. "Are all dragons cocky?"

She felt Peeta's laughter before she heard it. He was a beautiful creature. And since waking up yesterday, they could not only read each other's thoughts but each other's emotions.

His head butted up against her hand.

"You are a sight to behold," Peeta said, sitting on his hind legs. His spiky tale cured around him.

"Thank you."

Mags was right; he was growing rapidly. Yesterday evening he was about the size of a cat. This morning he was the size of a large dog with wings. Peeta had not yet flown, but Mags counseled that tomorrow he would be about the size of a horse and would begin to fly and by the end of the day he would be strong enough to carry her. Then their training would begin.

"How old are you?"

"A tricky question. My soul is thousands of years old. Currently, my body is that of a ten-year-old dragon, but I am aging even as we speak. My heart, however, is the same age as yours."

Katniss understood. There was a knock. Katniss looked up to see Haymitch at her door.

"I received news," Haymitch said standing at her door.

"From the spy?"

"It's not good." Haymitch handed her the notice.

"A legion of mercenaries will be arriving in port in a fortnight."

"They're getting ready to attack," Haymitch said.

"Haymitch, that's nearly four to six thousand men, not including her own." Katniss' heart sunk. It meant they needed to attack within those two weeks so that they could have a better chance at winning, but Peeta still needed at least five more days to grow to his full size.

"Do not lose heart, Mea Carum," Peeta whispered.

"Ready?" Haymitch asked.

"Yes."

Finnick was waiting outside. He smiled at her. Peeta caught him and she could hear him growling. "Behave," Katniss said.

"Tell him to keep his eyes off of you," Peeta said.

Katniss put her hand over his head as they entered the large space where she'd been crowned. Her people began to make a path for her as she walked to the throne.

"It's the Queen." She could hear them say.

"A dragon." Her people whispered.

"See, I am irresistible," Peeta smugly said.

Katniss wanted to laugh.

Peeta extended his wings and flapped them, and the people ooohed and awed over him.

Katniss would have rolled her eyes, had she not been before the entire population of Midland. She sat down and looked at her people. There were a little over fourteen hundred people within the caves. Out of those, they had only eight hundred warriors. This war was a suicide mission. Everything had to be planned out, from the archers, cavalry, and infantry.

Peeta sat by her side, looking majestic.

"You can do this, Mea Carum," Peeta whispered, looking into her eyes.

"My people, you humbly chose me as your leader, and today I ask you to join in a risky venture. As many of you know, Queen Verity and her people of Highland are amassing an army to attack us. We have been preparing for this for years."

Katniss paused to look into the faces of the people who followed her. Even Rue stood there with a slingshot in her hand; she had volunteered to be her Page. Her eyes sought out Lyme who had fought valiantly to rescue her family from the clutches of Queen Verity. Next to her stood Ginny and Sabyn, both had a fierce determination on their faces. Even Sejanus had grown since that rescue.

"I have just received word that the Queen and her Witch have a legion arriving on the shore of Ion in less than three weeks."

A murmur spread through the group.

Peeta roared and people became silent.

"Which means we have but one week to get ready and to attack Castle Highland." Katniss stood. "Queen Verity has raided our cities, killed our loved ones, driven us from our lands. She has tried to starve us, but we have prevailed because she has not been able to dampen our spirit. We survived because we banded together and have formed a family."

"An unconventional family," someone shouted.

And everyone laughed.

Katniss smiled and walked down a step as she beheld all of their beloved faces.

"A family that defends what is ours. We have the opportunity to catch them unaware before their mercenaries arrive and I ask you today to join with me to do the impossible."

The crowd looked at one another and then one by one she saw them lift three fingers to their lips and then hold them up into the air. The people had spoken; they were going to war against Highland.

The following day, people were shocked when they saw how big Peeta had grown overnight. There was great excitement when the image on her amulet was used as their banner. Katniss knew then it wasn't two birds, but two dragons in midair, courting.

Peeta's wings flapped as he stood in the throne room.

"Easy," Mags said to Peeta. "Watch the way he springs up into the air. He will do the same when you are riding him, My Queen."

"Please do not call me that," Katniss begged.

Mags turned to face Katniss. "That is your birthright. You are our Queen. You are descended from the noble wizards of Everdeen and you are from the noble line of Ehrlich who have elfin blood in their veins. That pretender that sits on the throne will have her day of judgment and so will her so-called Witch."

Katniss opened her mouth but did not say anything. Instead, she walked to see Lyme and Otto running hand to hand in combat simulations. Finnick stood off at the side.

"Ready for your lesson?" Finnick asked, grabbing his sword.

"Ready," Katniss said.

As they practiced, Katniss felt a burst of energy. She looked up to see Peeta flying. He was now larger than a horse. He landed in between her and Finnick. Everyone around them gathered. They all marveled at his beauty.

"I am ready for you to mount me," Peeta said to her, although he was giving Finnick a slanted view.

Katniss neared him and gently placed her hand on his left flank. "Easy, Peeta."

Finnick rubbed the back of his neck.

"We're going to have to find you a wife, Finnick," Katniss joked.

"Are dragons really protective over their treasure?" A small little voice asked.

Katniss turned to see one of Rue's sisters looking up at Peeta curiously.

"Yes, and Peeta sees us as his treasure," Katniss said, sweeping her up into her arms.

Rue's sister giggled.

Peeta lay on the floor watching her, his blue eyes gleaming.

Later that night, Katniss brought him to a room that was twice as large as the room where they were training. Above, there was a large opening and they could see the night sky.

"You'll be able to enter the caves through here. Though I don't think you'll be able to be with me below."

She could hear Peeta's heavy tread as he walked behind her. He was already larger than an elk.

"I'm going to grow tonight to my adult size," Peeta said. Peeta lay on the floor and said. "Get on my back."

They had flown early in the evening but only around the mountain once within the sight of Haymitch.

Katniss slipped on his back. "I'm going to need a saddle when you're bigger."

"Haymitch is already at work on one," Peeta said. "I heard him and that Finnick fellow speaking about it."

"You know you have to let go of the entire I hate Finnick thing."

"Never."

"He's more like a brother to me now."

"Really?" Peeta asked, lifting up into the air. His wings flapped as they flew up into the night sky. It was littered with hundreds of twinkling stars. He was no doubt probing her for the truth.

"Peeta, you can feel that I am telling you the truth."

"I know you are telling the truth, but I can smell his excitement whenever he comes near you."

Katniss laughed, "Could we stop speaking about Finnick and really ride?"

"Yes."

Katniss clung to his neck as he went side to side. The wind rushed through her hair. Their minds and emotions were linked and she leaned left instinctively when he leaned left, and when he flew through a cloud she laughed. Her hair floated around her and she could feel the cool wind as it lifted the locks of her hair around her. Katniss laid her head on his neck. Letting him know just how much she cared for him.

When they finally landed, Katniss yawned.

"I guess you're leaving me now."

"Ah that is where you are wrong," Katniss said. Picking up the sack she had dragged all the way up to the room. "This is my sleeping tick."

Katniss found a perch and rolled out a tick thick with fresh hay and placed several blankets on top. She brought with her a pillow stuffed with feathers. "I'm going to bed here for the night."

She could feel his happiness.

"Good night, Mea Carum."

"Good night, Peeta."

The next day when she awoke the cave was empty. She reached out and found that he was flying.

"Good morning," he sounded happier and his voice was thicker like that of a man.

"Where are you?"

"Getting breakfast," Peeta answered.

Katniss knew Peeta was going to be big, but she hadn't pictured him being taller than the walls of Highland Castle. His wingspan took up the entire space. He was stocky and muscular. He could easily knock over the ten-foot thick walls of the castle.

"Peeta," she whispered.

"Hello, Mea Carum," Peeta greeted.

Katniss stood and she held out her hand to his face. His eyes were large and twinkled with delight at her awe.

"I brought you breakfast," he said.

Below, on the cave floor was an elk.

"Thank you, but how am I going to bring that down by myself?"

"You can call that manservant," Peeta said.

"You mean, Finnick," Katniss chuckled when she felt his revulsion.

"Is that what you call him?" Peeta asked, sounding innocent.

Katniss laughed.

"Ugh and here he comes," Peeta said.

"Merlin," Finnick muttered.

Haymitch looked up but didn't bat an eye. "Tell me, can you breathe fire?"

Peeta looked at Katniss. He grinned.

"He says, yes."

"Good," Haymitch looked around, then pointed to the elk. "Once you eat then you begin training. We leave tonight for Highland Castle."

Katniss nodded. For the rest of the day they trained. They ran drills against objects that Haymitch launched at them through catapults from the mountain. They dove and spun. And discovered his scales were fireproof. They took the scales that Peeta shed to make her armor.

By the time the evening fell, they were ready to make the march into the world above ground.

As they walked from the Mountain, a gray falcon flew into Haymitch's hands.

"It's from the spy," Haymitch said.

"Well?" Katniss asked.

"There are more than a thousand knights, vassals, and Lords who are willing to battle against Queen Verity. Adeline and her father are waiting for us. They will march and meet us at the castle."

"See Mea Carum, all will be alright," Peeta said.

In Highland Castle, the Witch stood on one of the towers near the drawbridge. Something disturbed her sleep. She dreamt of fire and brimstone. Her nose was filled with the scent of sulfur as if the gates of Gehenna were opened and were waiting for her.

After she had dreamt the same dream thrice she stood and went to the highest point in the Castle. It was a place where she could find solace. A wind blew and it carried with it the scents of the Midland. The Witch sniffed the air and her skin prickled as she recognized the scent.

"A dragon?" She whispered out loud in the emptiness.

She once more sniffed the cool air. "Impossible."

She waved her hand and uttered, "Revelare."

The world warped around her and she couldn't see the dragon but she could feel its magic. It was a powerful ancient beast. A dragon would not leave its den unless it had a reason to do so. It would either seek food, another dragon to mate with, or, the most deadliest reason: it had given its heart to a human. There were a handful of times when the dragon would not give their heart to the rider because the rider was not worthy.

That was not the case this time. The dragon had a rider and that rider was the leader of the Midlandians, the female archer. Once more the Witch tried to conjure up the face of the girl, but she was hidden.

Another wind blew and the scent was stronger.

The Witch left the tower. Fear coursed through her as she quickly made her way down into the tower to the inner ward. She quickly walked across to the castle.

The Witch marched into the Great Hall where most of the Lords, Knights, and Vassals were already bedded down for the evening. She headed up to the Queen's room.

The Queen lay with her latest paramour Lady Crane's cousin, Lord Seneca Crane. The Witch flipped her hand and the door violently swung open.

"Get up," the Witch ordered.

She could hear Crane shoot up from the bed, searching for his sword.

The Witch leaned on her cane, she sounded bored and was glad for once that she had lost her sight. "Leave."

Verity sat up and sighed.

"My Queen?"

"These are matters of the state," the Witch said.

"Leave," Verity confirmed.

"I shall be right outside," Lord Crane said, grabbing his clothing and his sword and left.

"What is it?" Verity asked testily.

"The Midlandians are on their way, you must call all of your Lords," the Witch said, leaving.

Verity stood up from her bed and quickly donned a robe. "Wait, when will they be here?"

The Witch stopped walking and turned to face Verity. "They will be here in two days."

"What of my army, you said a fortnight. Could there be a chance that they will arrive in time before the battle?"

"I shall send a falcon," the Witch said.

That night Verity dispatched falcons requesting for the Lords who were not in the castle to arrive with their men. Her hands shook as she wrote.

Her Lords and their armies began arriving within a day and a half. This stopped Verity from feeling overwhelmed. Then that evening she received reports that a massive army was traveling toward the castle. Supposedly the serfs had joined the leader of Midland. That insignificant girl had inspired the riff-raff. They would be arriving at any time.

Verity was in her bedroom pacing. Not all of her Lords had arrived yet. She needed wine. "Adeline!"

There was no reply. Getting up, she opened up the door where Adeline slept. "Adeline?"

"Milady?" Lady Crane said getting up from the bed.

"Where is Adeline?" Verity walked into the room and pulled the bed sheets. "Where is that fat cow?"

"Your Grace, she left three nights ago, her father had an emergency," Lady Crane said.

"Get up and get me a goblet of wine," Verity demanded.

Her hands shook as she stood waiting. She wondered where the Witch was, why wasn't the old woman by her side. She headed for the tower where the Witch slept. Verity knew how to lay siege to a castle and she could, under normal circumstances, defend her home. As it was, she had a battle plan.

Nonetheless, Verity recalled the ease with which the archer had defeated them at the foot of the mountains. And the archer had a secret weapon that Verity did not know how to defend herself against. She thought furiously, recalling the scrimmage. There had to be something she could use against the girl.

Verity stopped moving. It wasn't something, it was someone. She needed to lay a trap. Her mind quickly composed a plan. She needed the Witch to help her.

Going to the tower she opened the door. "Witch."

The witch was reading a note from a falcon. She turned to face Verity.

"I need you to help me set up a trap," Verity said.

"Oh."

"Yes, I need you to use your magic to help me trap the archer's man."

"What do you mean?"

"The archer has a lover, a very good-looking man. If I can lure him, then he could be used to bargain with."

The Witch laughed gleefully. "Of course, my Queen."

CH14 The Final Battle

The next morning the sky was clear. Katniss opened her eyes to the sound of the Mockingjays singing. They had skirted the village of Highland Castle and set up camp looking up the hill at Highland Castle.

Katniss sat up in her cot, yawning.

"Good Morning, Mea Carum."

"Good Morning, my dragon," Katniss greeted.

"Why are you feeling guilty?"

"Do you think we should've allowed all of those people to join us?"

Many in the villages under Queen Verity's rule had joined them when they saw Peeta. Their numbers had increased. The serfs were armed with simple rustic tools: pitch forks, axes, and scythe.

The night before they were surprised when a woman named Johanna from the Petula Forest had traveled with about a hundred of her kinsmen to join their army. They all wielded an ax as if it was an extension of their arms. They were making armor for as many people as they could from the scales that fell from Peeta.

"It is their destiny to be here," Peeta said.

"Milady," Rue said, entering the tent.

"Good morn, Rue," Katniss said.

"Let us get you ready for the day."

Katniss chose her dress carefully. It was one that Mags had made for her. It was a white dress with gold and blue dragons embroidered on it. Rue was braiding her hair, and she left it half down as she put her crown on.

"You look lovely," Peeta said.

Katniss smiled, she could feel him next to her tent, no doubt peering in with his special vision.

"Oh, here he comes again," Peeta grumbled.

Katniss laughed.

"Is it the dragon?" Rue asked.

"Yes."

"Is it Finnick again?"

"How'd you know Rue?"

"He doesn't like Finnick," Rue shrugged as she finished.

"Your Grace," Finnick called.

"I will be right out," Katniss called. She turned to Rue and winked. "We really do need to find a wife for Finnick."

"Agreed," Rue said, her doe-eyes shining brightly.

Katniss left her tent and found Finnick waiting for her wearing a smock with the emblem of her amulet.

"Milady, Haymitch waits for you," Finnick greeted.

"Of course," Katniss said.

Katniss walked toward Peeta. He was waiting for her patiently. The moment she touched him she felt their magic intertwine once again.

"Haymitch is that way."

"I will be right there," Katniss said, climbing atop Peeta.

Peeta shot into the air. Without speaking he knew exactly what she wanted to do. They flew above the castle in stealth mode. Peeta, Katniss had discovered, could make himself invisible, and she was also invisible when she was riding him.

They flew along the sides of the walls looking for any imperfections in the castle structure. They also looked for magical protections. The castle walls were ten feet thick, and they were nearly thirty and nine feet tall. Katniss counted four towers. It had an inner ward with stables, a keep where the Great Hall was located, a separate structure for a kitchen, and a newer building that housed soldiers.

They could see the dark magic the Witch used to fortify the walls of the castle and the keep, but not the wood buildings within the castle walls.

"What do you think?" Katniss asked.

"It is formidable, but not impenetrable."

"Which way do you think is the best way to get into the castle?"

"I can blast down the door of the drawbridge." Peeta then added, "That is the spot where the least amount of magic exists."

"And how will our people get in if the drawbridge is gone?"

"Magic. You can create a portal to the wooden buildings."

"I didn't know I could do that."

"With a hole in the magic, you can transport them from one side to the other."

"I think we should go back."

"Yes, no doubt Finnick misses you," Peeta snickered.

Katniss sighed. "Peeta." Katniss struggled to speak. She knew Peeta could feel her emotions. But she needed to say the words. They were bound in a chivalrous love. One that was pure and innocent. "I am devoted to you Peeta, my heart belongs only to you."

Hearing her words, Peeta roared out of glee. She could feel the way his heart melted and beat for her the same way hers did for him. They landed and she lay her cheek against his neck.

"Your Highness," Haymitch called.

Peeta lowered himself to the ground. Around Haymitch, the men who wore armor.

"Go, they are already impressed by me," Peeta said cockily.

Katniss got off and shook her head.

"Your Grace," the men bowed when she approached.

"Please arise," Katniss said.

"These are the Lords that have pledged to help you fight against Queen Verity," Haymitch said.

"It is true you are descended from the house of Ehrlich," a heavyset man with a purple tunic said. He was looking at Peeta.

"We thought you were a myth, a legend long buried," A man with kind eyes said.

Katniss examined the group. She was surprised to see a few women amongst the gathered men.

"Which one of you is Adeline Cartwright?"

A blonde woman with a curvaceous figure stepped forward.

Katniss bowed to her.

There was a mummer between them at Katniss' action.

"I uphold the old ways set by Arthur Pendragon and Merlin. I pay homage to the woman who has this day helped in defending the weak and the defenseless. I have heard of the great daughter of the house of Birota Ius, and how she helped heal the sick and the lame. All the while putting yourself in danger by helping the people of Midland."

Adeline wept as she tried to get Katniss to stand. "Your Grace, I am nothing but your humble servant."

Then one by one the men began following Katniss' lead.

"I will be honored to have you fight amongst us, Adeline."

When Katniss stood. She looked at each of the men. The entire camp gathered around her. "This fight shall not be easy. There is nothing that I can promise you other than some of you will not see another dawn. We have been an oppressed people living in the shadow of fear. No longer! Today we take back our freedom. If they wish to burn us, then we will burn them."

A roar was lifted from the mouths of the men and women gathered.

"Nicely done," Peeta said.

"Thank you. Now, let me communicate our plan to Haymitch."

On the tower, Verity gripped the stone. Her red dress with black crystals flapped in the wind. She could not imagine how many men were gathered just behind the castle; they all wore a tunic with two large gold birds surrounded by a circle over their armor. Last night, she had the same dream. She dreamt it over and over again. She was afraid for the first time.

"Do not fret," the Witch said.

Then she heard a deafening roar. "What was that?"

"It is the hysteria of the rabble."

"Will our plan work?"

"Without a doubt," the Witch said.

An hour later the army was positioned. There were catapults ready to fire at the castle. There would be three waves of warriors entering the castle. On the field, Katniss stood in the gold armor made from Peeta's scales. Her sword was by her side and she carried her bow and sheath of arrows.

"Are you ready?" Haymitch asked.

"Yes."

"Katniss," Haymitch said.

Katniss turned to face Haymitch. "Your parents would have been proud of you. I am proud of you."

Katniss wanted to embrace him, but she stood straighter and said, "Thank you, I think of you as my father."

Haymitch's eyes filled with tears. He coughed and then said, "Stay alive."

"I intend to," Katniss said. She walked away to where Peeta waited for her.

She climbed on board.

"Come Mea Carum, let us finish this."

Together they took flight. They flew to the front of the castle. "Ready to show them, your magnificence?"

"Are you finally admitting that I am more beautiful than you are?"

Katniss laughed. "Well, let's see what they think."

Peeta materialized and Katniss could see the fear on the faces of the archers and Knights who stood on the ramparts between the towers.

"I am Queen Katniss of the House of Everdeen and I offer you the opportunity to surrender."

Queen Verity appeared on the wall; her face stony. "I would rather die than surrender."

"If that is what you wish," Katniss said.

"Fire," Queen Verity said, pointing her sword at Peeta.

The archers released their arrows. The arrows bounced off of him. Katniss could feel Peeta's magic swell as his fire gathered within him.

"Hold on," Peeta said right before he let loose his fire on the door. Katniss concentrated and together her magic and he blew the drawbridge apart. Splinters of wood and pieces of stone flew in the air.

"Are you alright?" Peeta asked.

"Yes," Katniss said. Her magic was still intact.

"ATTACK!" she heard Finnick yell. The catapults began assaulting the damaged walls. Katniss could see the magic surrounding the walls had weakened.

"Now," Peeta urged, as the walls began to crack.

Katniss closed her eyes and made concentric circles with her hands. Portals opened up into the different buildings as she and Peeta had planned.

On the wall, Verity could not believe what she was seeing. That archer was no archer. She was riding the dragon and she was using magic that Verity had never seen before. Golden rings opened and she saw the Midlandian warriors pass through them. She ran to the other side of the rampart but did not see them.

"Where are they going?" She demanded.

"I am not sure," Lord Undersee said.

"Fire at them, now!"

"Archers aim for the Midlandian warriors passing through those gold rings!" Lord Undersee ordered.

As Undersee gave the order and the archers fired down on the rings. The cry of battle could be heard coming from within the inner ward as the Midladian warriors poured out from the wooden structures.

"Lord Crane, do something," Verity demanded.

Seneca and his father ran down with a group of men. There was fighting within the castle; they were being plucked easily. The dragon flew above and it unleashed its fire at one of the towers that had cracked, no doubt the magic the Witch had used was not effective against the might and power of a dragon.

It was then she recalled her dream of being consumed by fire.

She staggered and held on to the wall as she sank to her knees. The Witch had known of the dragon.

Verity felt betrayed by the Witch; she had foreseen this and had done nothing to save her. Once again, she was alone. Getting up, she took her sword. She rushed to the tower where the Witch resided.

Around her metal clanged as the Midlandian warrior fought against her Knights and Vassals. She ducked and wound her way through the courtyard. She could see Lady Arachne was fighting too, but a woman with an ax sliced her throat.

Katniss saw the Queen as she made her way to one of the towers. "Look, there is the Queen."

"You are safer with me."

"I have to fight her," Katniss said. "Besides, you are always with me."

"Fine."

"If you want, find Haymitch and bring him to that tower," Katniss said as she watched Verity enter the tower. "Drop me off there."

"Stave alive, Mea Carum."

"I will, my dragon."

When the men saw the dragon approach, they quickly left the tower. Katniss jumped down and ran to the entrance; it was empty; she could hear footsteps followed by a woman screaming, "Witch!"

Katniss crept down the stairs until she saw the queen enter a room off to the side of the stairs.

Verity stood in the room staring at the Witch.

"You deceived me; you knew I was going to die today."

The Witch laughed.

"Why?"

"Do you know how easy it was to fool you?"

"My parents were not killed by the people of Midlands." Verity made the connection.

"The witch cackled, no I killed them."

Verity felt as if she was struck, her insides hurt as she crumpled to the floor.

"When I learned of your dream. The die was cast and you were going to the vessel that I would use to destroy my enemy, the daughter of the true King and Queen of these lands."

Verity looked up at the Witch. She held a knife in her hand.

"You are not even noble. You are a child that I stole and brought to the King and Queen, who were childless. You were born to farmers, I believe. They called you Juno Phipps. I have endured your groveling these thirty years, feeding the milk of hatred so that you could become my sacrifice."

"You mean the raids?"

"Hired thugs from the Verbotem Forest."

Katniss ran through the door. "Let her go Witch, or should I say, Volumina Gaul."

The Witch grabbed Verity and snatched her knife, putting it to her side. "Do you know how long I have been waiting to meet you? So long that I had forgotten my name."

"Let her go."

"I'm sorry," Verity said to Katniss, sobbing.

"It's okay," Katniss said. "I know it's not your fault. You didn't know you had a venomous snake with you."

The witch laughed and dug her knife into Verity's side.

"No!" Katniss said a burst of energy flew from her hands and hit Volumina in the heart.

The woman fell, releasing Verity, who scrambled away.

Katniss panted. Some of the magic she'd used broke the wall of the turret they were in.

Then the Witch laughed maniacally and stood. "I killed your aunt and consumed the heart of her dragon. It made me more powerful than Merlin himself. You cannot kill me, but I can kill you and in the process, kill your dragon."

Katniss didn't react.

"Your father told you," Voluminal laughed.

"Yes he did, and he also told me how to kill you."

Voluminal raised her hands and shot dark light that contained sparks of fire. Katniss cast a protective bubble around herself. They volleyed magic back and forth. Her magic was impressive, but it was no match for Gaul's. And soon she began to grow pale.

"Yes, here comes your dragon to your rescue…"

"No, Peeta," Katniss whispered.

"How fitting, you love him deeply." Volumina cackled, "Love is for fools." She intensified her attack.

Blood began dripping from Katniss' nose.

"Your dragon is weakened. One more blast and you shall perish, and so shall your dragon, Peeta."

Verity stood up and looked through the turret. The broken walls were just like in her dream. She stood looking down at her kingdom. The fight below was waning and they were winning. She was not going to die as a puppet and she was not going to let the Witch win. This was her destiny. Verity took her sword and with the last of her strength, she stabbed the Witch through the heart.

She screamed in pain. "What have you done," the Witch screamed. She staggered.

"Katniss," Haymitch screamed as he came in through the door. He pulled her away.

"Justice," Verity said as she once again crumpled to the ground and stilled.

Then came the familiar sound of rushing waters. Gaul looked and saw the dragon before he opened his mouth and flames so hot they were white consumed her.

Outside of the turret, Peeta felt Katniss' heart beating weakly. She was near death and he roared in pain. Suddenly her heart stopped beating and Peeta closed his eyes. As he did, he recalled her father's words.

"Donum tibi concedo, si heredem meum serves. Concedo tibi unum velle."

"My life for hers and a love that will replace mine," Peeta whispered as he fell to the earth.

Katniss coughed as she came back to life. "Peeta."

"Girl," Haymitch held her, embracing her.

"Where's Peeta?"

"I don't know."

Katniss stood and looked around. "Haymitch, I can't feel him."

"Katniss, you should rest."

Haymitch's words fell on deaf ears as Katniss ran down the stairs and through the inner courtyard. "PEETA!"

"Your Grace, your dragon…" Finnick said, pointing to what was once a wall.

Katniss ran, "PEETA!"

She saw him lying still. Tears filled her eyes.

"No, no, no, no, no, no," she uttered as she ran to him. Katniss fell to her knees, her hands touched his beloved face. "Peeta," she said as the realization that he was dead. Her hands shook, and uncontrolled magic poured through her body. "NO!" She yelled and flames flew out of her hands and wrapped them.

Katniss wished herself dead. She could not live in a world without him. The flames consumed her, consumed the ground, and lapped up the water in the moat. In her grief, her body lifted from the ground, and magic pulsated from her body in a riot of colors.

Beneath her, the flames wrapped protectively around Peeta's inert form.

Her father's words floated around her "Donum tibi concedo, si heredem meum serves. Concedo tibi unum velle."

Men and women lay down their arms. Her love for this creature could be felt in their hearts. They stared and wept at this act of courtly love and suffering. A life for a life. A heart for a heart.

Her body floated down into the fire.

CH16 The Heavens

"They need to live," Adeline whispered.

Finnick put his hand over his heart and knelt. One by one they all sank to their knees. The Midlandians saluted their Queen, by raising three fingers in the air.

They had won the battle. The Witch was dead and so was Verity. But they had lost their champion and their Queen.

Adeline wiped her face. "Someone so noble cannot be dead."

Haymitch wept. "I failed her," he said.

"She knew the risks," Lord Cartwright said sadly, shaking his head.

"You cry over this," Madge, who had climbed out from the rubble, stared at them.

"Be quiet!" Adeline yelled. "You know nothing of love or of friendship. They died for one another. You betrayed the memory and legacy of your mother for what, Madge?"

Madge stood defiantly.

"You sold your beliefs for the sake of vanity. And yet they fought for you. They died for us so that we could be free. I just wish to have a love like theirs."

"We shall write songs to the dragon and his rider who this day gave us freedom. Who slayed the evil contained in this castle and died in the name of honor with a love so pure," Finnick said.

As they spoke the flames began to get hotter. The flames went from a dull red to bright orange. Then to a yellow, to a blue and finally it burst into white. It felt like the burials of the old kings where they set their bodies adrift in a sea of water and lit them on fire.

Lyme rose up and she began to sing in a broken voice. "Filioli, audite vocem meam praeter vos. O virgo mulier! Rex noster puer, festina et vide; Terra tua, tibi vera. Sol et luna duce nos; Vsque ad horam gloriae nostrae."

Rue's young voice joined hers. They were joined by other voices from Midland. Ginny, Blight, Wolf, Otto, Mags. Those who had survived the battle sang the song of old. Their voices lifted into the sky. The song of a maiden fair, who gave her heart to her people and to her land, and finally to the one she loved dearly.

As the sun set in the western sky, the inky stars appeared one by one as if called by the moon.

"Look," Rue stopped singing and pointed to the heavens.

In the heavens, the stars move their positions. Everyone stared in awe as the stars banded together forming a crown above the white flames. A light shone down from the heavens onto the white flames creating a cocoon around the dragon and their queen. The cocoon was lifted up into the sky and it became a gem on the crown in the heavens.

A gentle breeze wove itself amongst the people gathered. The wind lifted up in a column and the cocoon burst into hundreds of milky glittering stars and two bodies floated down from the heavens onto the earth.

They were beauteous to behold.

A blond man and their queen, in a gown of white, were embracing each other.

Their eyes opened. Katniss sat up, followed by the man.

"Peeta," Katniss whispered in awe as she beheld him. She touched his strong face. Saw the warmth in his blue eyes.

"Mea Carum," Peeta said gently cupping her face.

"You're a man."

"Yes, and quite a good-looking one."

Katniss laughed through her tears.

"May I kiss you?" Peeta asked with a trembling voice.

Katniss nodded.

Peeta placed his lips on hers. And her heart was filled with his love. Magic fluttered around them and peace descended upon the land.

The End

Puritas vincet / Purity will Prevail

Equum et cinerem reuela qui redolet, da mihi potentiam suam mihi revelandi faciem / Reveal the rider that smells of horse and ash, grant me the power to reveal their face to me

Revelare /Reveal

Filioli, audite vocem meam praeter vos. O virgo mulier! Rex noster puer, festina et vide; Terra tua, tibi vera. Sol et luna duce nos; Vsque ad horam gloriae nostrae.” Little children, hear my voice, Me beside you, Oh virgin woman; Our young king, fast and see; Your land, true to yourself. The sun and the moon, guide us; Until the hour of our glory. (note this was translated from the Song from Brave: Noble Maiden Fair (A Mhaighdean Bhan Uasal)Emma Thompson, Peigi Barker)

Nobel Draco cor suum solum dabit cordi nobili. / The Nobel Dragon will only give his heart to a noble heart.

Donum tibi concedo, si heredem meum serves. Concedo tibi unum velle. / I grant thee a boon, should you save mine heir. I grant thee one wish.

Prohibere / Stop

Mea Carum / My dear : My Cherished One

Ore Silvae / Edge of the forest

Birota Ius / Cart Right

#promptsinpanem #specialchallenges #fivetenfifteen #submission #mega-aulover

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