The Lady and the Dragon(Closed)

[GypsyGirl84]

(Author's note: This time around, I'm doing something a little differently, and basing my character on an image I stumbled on while rummaging through the internet. This is how I envison Mara in her wedding night attire)

"It is a ridiculous outfit," Mara huffed, keeping the silken blue and purple robe tightly around her body.

"It is the outfit that you are to wear on your wedding night, Mara," a wizened voice instructed her. "It is meant to entice your husband on your first night together."

"You'd think that since the man I marry is to be consort, and not ruler, he should worry about enticing me, and not the other way around," Mara retorted. She finally relented and opened up the robe, looking down at her scantily clad body. "Is all this really necessary?" she asked, plucking at a pouch and a small bottle hanging on the girdle encircling her waist.

An older woman, small and dressed in light gray robes, stepped up and adjusted the girdle. "It is tradition. Each of these represents..."

"I don't mean that, Rala," Mara told the old woman, pulling her robes tight once more around her body.. "I mean all of this. Having suitors come from distant lands and picking one to be my husband. I could do without a husband, you know. I have the Gift," Mara added, holding her hand out, palm outward. A tendril of green energy briefly appeared from Mara's palm before she willed it to vanish. "I have the loyalty of the Noble Houses and the Trading Houses. I have ruled five years, since I was sixteen, and our Kingdom is richer and stronger for it. The fact that so many suitors have traveled from afar, to bind their lands with ours, proves the Kingdom does well without its Queen possessing a consort."

"And when you are my age, Mara, and have no heir, can you guarantee that there will be no war of succession, even if you do designate who should follow you?" Rala asked.

Mara stepped up to a mirror and opened her robe,, looking at the young woman staring back at her from the other side of the mirror. It was an image that many a man would gladly gaze upon. Mara possessed flawless light olive skin that covered an athletic body that was not lacking in curves, as the top containing and displaying her firm, full bosom attested. Her burnished red hair was just long enough to cover the slopes of those breasts, and framed a lovely face with sea green eyes. She stood five and a half feet tall, in that measuring system that had made its way westwards with the traders of the Sea Kingdoms. She stood slightly taller than the average woman of her Kingdom. That, her bearing, and the Gift all marked her as of being noble lineage. That in itself should be enough for her Kingdom! There was no reason that she should give herself over to be pawed at by some cretin whose family desired stronger ties with the most powerful of the Central Kingdoms.

As if reading her mind, Rala added, "You do have the good fortune of having a choice in your husband," the older woman advised her.

"And the choice will have to be for the good of the Kingdom," Mara sighed. "The suitors begin presenting themselves tomorrow in the royal hall? At least I won't have to see them one at a time." The custom of the Kingdom was that a feast was held for potential suitors for a month's time, after which, Mara would choose one. During that time, she would make her way among the suitors in the grand hall, make small talk, and then quickly escape.

"At least I will be able to wear something more substantial than this," Mara laughed. "Rala, could you get me a cup of wine, so I can dissolve the glue holding the jewel in place?"

Rala answered, "It might be easier to have a piercing."

Mara answered stiffly, "I am not going to pierce my stomach for a jewel I will wear for only one night."

 

[JadeKnight]

The dragons were once the rulers, and legends among the people of the Kingdoms. The last recorded activity of the dragons had been marked as being nearly two millennium ago, when a plague was believed to have wiped them out. However that was not the case at all.

One dragon started his hibernation before the plague did hit. The place he had chosen to hibernate in was at the bottom of a large glacier. Over time the ice encased him, freezing him within the ice. As time passed, the ice encased dragon was moved around the world before he was finally deposited in a large mountain range on the outskirts of what would become the territory of the Kingdoms.

Calling himself Pallox, the truly last dragon awoke from his slumber fifty years earlier to see what had changed during his sleep. The first ones to meet him were villagers of two struggling villages located along the mountain range. They were outside the protection of the kingdom territories, barely struggling. Intrigued with the new creatures, Pallox took it upon himself to help them and learn their ways.

As time passed, the magic the dragon used was able to bring the villages greater wealth and prosperity, gaining greater value for both parties. However like all other dragons, his lust for more power and treasure grew. However he knew that what power he did have wasn't enough to challenge any of the Kingdoms to grow himself or the villages.

It was a month earlier when word of the choosing of a suitor by the Queen of the Central Kingdom was to be held, from a passing traveler. The act of a human queen sounded no different than that of how dragons had chosen their mates, of which he had yet to do. It also had the added incentive of more power, which intrigued Pallox even more.

------------------------------------

The journey from the villages by carriage normally took four days, and Pallox had one day to go. He had managed to keep his true form confined to the villages, spending more of his time shape-shifted as a human.
Riding with him was the mayor of the smaller village Riyo, Jacob Houser. The older man was laying out on one of the carriage benches with his eyes closed. Pallox sit upright on the other, watching the view of the countryside as they rode along the cobblestone.

"So this is the best way of doing things Jacob?"

The old man opened his eyes for a moment to look at the 'young man' and chuckled.

"Just relax a little Pallox. This is the best way to embrace your desire for more power. I see the lust for it from time to time when you look at me. You will be fine."

The dragon smirked for a moment, but remained looking out the window. He had never really been outside the villages, so he did not know what to expect when they arrived. Whatever happened, he hoped he was prepared to handle it.

 

[GypsyGirl84]

"And so the banquet begins," Mara said, looking out at the Grand Hall from her hidden vantage point. The grand hall was filled with tables laden with food and drink, suitors laden with jewelry and finery, servants laden with empty trays and full goblets, performers of every ilk and talent, and basically every sort of person imaginable.

"I'm glad it's custom for each of the Trading Houses to take a turn at hosting a day's feast," Mara laughed to Rala, who was standing beside her. "I'd hate to think what all this would do to the Royal Treasury. You know, if I presented the Trading Houses an opportunity to call this whole thing off, considering what this all must cost them, they might be affable to the idea."

"Mara!" Rala admonished. "Don't even think it!"

"No harm in thoughts, Rala, as long as they are not coupled with deeds," Mara laughed. "Time to make an appearance." Mara's Kingdom was known far and wide for a number of things, not least in the talent of its falconers. So on the first day of the banuet, Mara opted to wear the garb of a falconer. She was garbed from head to toe in leathers, comfortable but modest.

As she stepped out to the dais where her throne was located, a cheer arose from the hall at her appearance. She waved back and took a seat on the throne. A servant brought her some wine while the suitors began forming a line to pay their respects.

This has all the earmarks of a very boring day, Mara remarked to herself as she pasted a smile on her face.

 

[JadeKnight]

Pallox had chosen to wear a suit of royal blue, but did not wear all of the jewels that the other suitors had decided to wear. Instead, he wore a blue crystal pendent in the shape of a dragon, the size of an apple, from a simple gold chain around his neck. In his human form, his most striking feature was his crystal blue eyes. If one looked close enough, they would believe they were watching water ripple softly in those orbs.

The mayor acted as his servant, following just behind and to the right of him. The villagers were his servants, but they didn't mind that at all. When Mara made her appearance, Jacob gave him a nudge to pull him from the gazing her was doing of all the riches and finery around the banquet hall. The dragon looked at the Queen and could see the value and power she held. She was the key to his power expansion.

Pallox waited for a few moments as the other suitors lined up in front of him, biding his time. Many of them held an air of arrogance about them, used to always getting their way. The dragon held himself with pride instead, his head held up as he followed through the line. It was Jacob who stepped forward first to introduce him to the Queen with a bow.

"It is a pleasure to introduce Pallox, the Prince of Dragons, your majesty."

There was a ripple of murmurs for a moment in the crowd as the Dragon stepped forward, bowing as well before straightening to look at Mara.

 

[GypsyGirl84]

As the line progressed, Mara could feel boredom slowly but surely creeping in. She only hoped it didn't show on her face. It was one of the things her father had taught her, that nobility was, more often than not, about obligation, not privilege. And as the Queen receiving these suitors, she owed it to her guests to show at least a modicum of interest in them, if they allowed it.

She did have to hold back a giggle or two from time to time, as she was feeling like the sole peahen in a room full of strutting peacocks. A few of the suitors had overdid it with their finery, and obviously considered it a foregone conclusion that they would be selected. One in particular had to be firmly escorted off the dais so that the next suitor could be presented.

One young man in particular struck Mara's interest. He was the second son of a the ruler of a small dukedom. His finery, as such, was not as modern or as fashionable as that of some of the others present. Mara suspected that his attire had been passed down from his father, and had been expertly tailored to fit him.

But he was a gentle lad of nineteen, and primarily a scholar. In his introduction he made mention of hearing of her family's library, and this led to a discussion on its history. The next suitor in line became impatient, and loudly clearly his throat. Mara's green eyes, which had been warm and mildly amused while talking to the young scion, became cold and hard as her attention diverted to the man behind him.

"Your suit is rejected. You may leave," she told the man who had cleared his throat, and with a gesture, had him escorted out. She turned to the young scholar and smiled softly. "Perhaps we can discuss such things more in the future. For now, I must grant the others patiently waiting an audience." She had a servant escort the young man to the library, and allowed herself a brief fantasy about how a gentle scholar's hands might feel on her virgin body, before she turned her full attention to the next suitor.

Boredom began creeping in again, though one or two suitors did attract her attention. And then a suitor was presented, his attire that of a man who understood (or those who dressed him understood) that sometimes less was more.

"It is a pleasure to introduce Pallox, the Prince of Dragons, your majesty."

There was more than a bit of stir at the announcement, and one or two open scoffs as well. Mara's eye glowed with power for a moment, then returned to normal. She arched an eyebrow, but otherwise gave no reaction.

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Prince Pollux," Mara replied with a bow of her own head. "I trust your journey to my Kingdom was a pleasurable one?"

 

[JadeKnight]

Pallox gave a bow of the head for a moment before he spoke. It felt beneath him to be acting like this towards a lesser creature, but he knew what was at stake. He also gave a soft smile.

"The journey here was a lengthy one, but enjoyable. I hail from the mountain area of Hypole, on the outskirts of the kingdom."

When he mentioned where he had come from, he knew he would probably get rejected for even trying to be here. However he could feel Jacob's encouraging look from a few feet away.

"A token of admiration for her majesty."

He looked down for a moment as he whispered in a strange tongue to them. His hands were cupped together, one on the other before he lifted the come one up. As his hand lifted up, a single water rose grew upwards till it was a foot tall. It had a delicate look about it, but held together nicely.

If examined closely, the circulation of water from top to bottom in a circular motion could be seen, going from the center out to the edges. He held it out towards Mara, the flower floating an inch above his hand. More murmurs could be heard, of excitement and amazement.

 

[GypsyGirl84]

"A very pretty trick," Mara said with a nod, as she stretched out her left hand, palm upwards. Misty tendrils of green emerged from her hand, stretching outward to gently wrap themselves around the proffered rose, lifting it gracefully and bringing it back to herself.

As the rose floated back to Mara, the stem, petal and leaves of the rose were being replaced by living green. First one spot of green would appear, then another, then the spots would grow in spiraling fractals, until only the rose itself was made of water.

As the rose floated in front of Mara, she plucked a single hair from her head with her right hand. The strand of hair floated through the air and immediately plunged into the watery rose. It dove and circled, splashing in and out of the rose, then curled tightly on itself, making a tiny sphere inside the rose. It burst into flames, and the rose became a puff of steam. When the steam cleared, there was a living rose, the rose itself the same color as Mara's own hair.

"A very pretty trick," she repeated. The hall had been silent during the transformation, but then erupted into thunderous applause. "I think we shall have to talk anon, Prince Pallox," Mara said with a nod. "For now, though," she said, motioning toward the next suitor in line.

 

[JadeKnight]

He almost gave a smirk when Mara called his gift a pretty trick. With her reaction, he really couldn't tell if she was being serious or just trying to show amusement at what he did. Despite that, he was a little impressed at her skill, as none of the villagers had any ability in the arts. Her words of approval was a bit of relief to his ears.

He gave a bow for a moment, inwardly cringing at such an act.

"As you wish majesty."

He stepped out of the way for the next suitor, Jacob close behind. After he was out of earshot of the activity near the dais, he looked back at Jacob.

"I'm going outside. It's a little crowded for me."

The old man chuckled and nodded as they moved through the hall. Pallox didn't mind being among the humans in a crowd, it it was outside. However being in a crowd inside for very long was a bit stifling for him at times. A few young ladies attempted to persuade him to dance, but he politely declined.

They were soon just outside the main hall doors, taking in the cool evening air. Pallox took in a deep breathe before he spoke, paying little heed to anyone who was nearby except Jacob.

"This sham of a mating ritual is for the birds. Such guadiness and vulgar displays cheapens the value of the riches in there."

Jacob chuckled for a moment, laying a hand on the dragon's shoulder.

"Yes, you are right, but it's something to have patience with."

Pallox growled lightly, looking back into the hall. He watched the selection of the suitors continue by Mara for a moment before continuing.

"These boys don't know the meaning of strength or hard work. They are but playing at being men." He smirked for a moment as he looked back at Jacob. "And I'm not exactly a Prince, you know that."

The old man smiled.

"You are to us, Pallox. You took care of us for a very long time, and now we must return the favor. Just be patient and your wish will come true. Those boys cannot hold a candle to you."

 

[GypsyGirl84]

"This is my favorite time of the day, I think," Mara said as her and Rala sat outside in the private garden reserved just for her. The two sat in iron chairs, the seats and backs padded with blue and purple pillows, and the chairs themselves bearing ornate designs of leaves and flowers. Between the two sat a table crafted by the same artisan, on which sat a china teapot and cups. Rala had just poured Mara a cup, then filled her own.

Mara took a sip from her cup and then nestled it between her hands. "I do believe these leaves come from Efan's dukedom," she added with a smile.

"The little scholar?" Rala responded with a snort. "That's one I think you should put out of your mind."

"Possibly," Mara admitted. "His father's dukedom is not that important to the Kingdom. Still, Efan is in good health, has a sharp mind, and would know to keep his nose out of the running of the Kingdom. Have our Master of Trade look into it, see if there is an advantage to be gained for the Kingdom's finances."

Rala nodded, then asked, "Are there any others that have caught your eye?"

Mara nodded. "A few that I would like to keep an eye on over the next month. See how they purport themselves in my absence. There is enough food, drink, game and sport to be had over the next month to weed out those that lack self-discipline. As for the rest..." Mara sighed and shrugged. "I'd send them home without a fare-thee-well if it wouldn't cause havoc for our Trading Houses. So I suppose I shall endure their company for a month's time. Until I officially make my decision. Even if it is, Stars Forbid, to do this again sometime in the future, because I don't make a choice."

"Stars forbid indeed," Rala laughed ruefully. Rala took a pale cookie from the plate on the table, then gently pushed the plate toward Mara, who shook her head. "Speaking of those who are sent packing, an official Note was sent by the ambassador of the Princedom that little popinjay was from. The one you did send home for interrupting your little scholar."

"Not that little, Rala," Mara said with a laugh. "He stands at least a good half foot taller than I." Mara took a sip from her cup, then asked, "What did the Note say?"

"It was an official apology for the young man's behavior," Rala said, barely suppressing a snicker. "The Ambassador hopes you will forgive the young man, and knows your Majesty will not look poorly on his sovereign's other two sons."

Mara tilted back her head and laughed. After a couple of minutes, she was able to get control of herself. "Stars, but I needed that," Mara said, wiping tears from her face. "I suppose our Kingdom should consider itself fortunate that others come to us seeking our favor, rather than the other way around."

"Still, it is always good to find the advantage for our people whenever possible," Rala observed. Mara nodded in agreement. "Mara, I have meant to ask...about..."Rala couldn't complete the question. Mara gave her a sympathetic smile.

"Is Prince Pallox really a dragon, as he proclaimed? I suspect so." Mara took another sip from her cup before continuing. "Of course, I only have legends and histories to anchor my suppositions, since I haven't actually seen his true form, but from the aura he is projecting...I'd say that if Pallox wishes to call himself a Dragon Prince, it's not up to me to gainsay him."

"But how?" Rala asked, her face reflecting her incredulity. "I thought all of that race died out millennia ago!"

"Apparently not all," Mara replied, in a tone that could have easily been used in discussing the weather. "We've had reports that someone or something has been establishing order beyond our borders in that direction. Now we have some idea who."

"You're being very blase about all this," Rala said in a tone that said Rala was feeling anything about blase.

Mara shrugged. "I've contacted my friends in the Hall..."Mara lifted up a hand when the mention of the word made Rala's face turn pale "Not to worry, they'll send an observer, but my Skills are considered to be sufficient for the present task. Others are more concerned that others like Prince Pallox might start stepping out of nowhere, and are making sure that is not a possibility."

"But what are we going to do?" Rala implored.

"I suspect that Prince Pallox is many things but, if legends and histories are useful guides about the nature of dragons, he is no fool. He has come as a suitor, not a conqueror. Which means he has limitations in the present situation, and understands them. And that means I might have the chance to come to some type of understanding with him. Since he doesn't seem averse to marital bonds with a human..." Mara pondered in silence for a moment, before continuing to think out loud. "My cousin Kardash is considered a handsome woman in most circles. Perhaps some kind of arrangement could be made, to make his rule on our border official."

"So you wouldn't consider marrying him yourself?" Rala asked.

"Fallen Stars No!" Mara answered so emphatically that Rala actually scooted back away from her. Mara immediately got up and knelt in front of her older friend's chair, taking her hand and patting it.

"Forgive me, Rala, you caught me off guard with that question."

"You seem very sure of your answer," Rala noted, squeezing Mara's hand once before releasing it.

"It is because I understand that Prince Pallox, like so many of my suitors, did not come down from his mountain to be my consort. He only wishes to supplant me. I have spent the last five years solidifying my rule, and making the lives of my people better. At the moment, our neighbors look to us for direction. In thirty years, they will follow our lead in everything. Why should I give up my throne to anyone, dragon or man, when I have proved myself competent?"

"And I do suspect that Prince Pallox looks upon me as a lesser being. In his defense, I will say that Prince Pallox holds this opinion of me because I am human, and not because, like so many suitors who have come to my Kingdom, I lack a rod between my legs. Even so, I will not choose a husband who views me as chattel, no matter what his reasoning. And make no mistake, Rala, Prince Pallox looks upon himself not as our natural ruler, but as our shepherd, which is all well and good, until the time for the shearing and slaughter arrives."

"And there is the matter of an heir," Mara said, a bit of red coming to her cheeks. "If Prince Pallox were to consent to...assisting in providing an heir, is it possible between our two races? And would such an heir survive my death?" Mara held up a hand before Rala could speak. "The Gift makes me long-lived, Rala, and makes those whose lives are close to mine, like yours, long-lived as well, but we are not immortal. Neither are dragons, but from our perspective, they may as well be."

"No," Mara said, shaking her head, "I will have to come to terms with Prince Pallox in some fashion, but taking him as my husband will not be my method in doing so."

 

[JadeKnight]

Even though quarters had been provided for guests to use, the dragon decided not to use them. Instead, he found his way to the royal stables. He knew his request would be odd, but it was accepted anyways.

After asking for the largest empty stall available, large enough to handle four horses, blankets were put up to block any view inside. He shifted back into his regular form within the stall, but just large enough to fit in the small place. The two carriage footmen took turns posted as guards so he wouldn't be disturbed.

After a restful night's peace, Pallox was back in his human form to do a little exploration. Since the large meals he ate in his true form would take days to digest, he could forgo eating as a human as well.

Talking to Jacob for a little bit, the dragon had decided to use a bit of espionage from the small network he had built up within the villages. After all, it took more than pure luck to keep things so prosperous for so long. He wanted more information on the other suitors he would be against, so Jacob dispatched a couple of pigeons to get things started. It would still take a few days to find out any information.

His wandering so brought him back to the main hall, Jacob in tow.

"So this mating ritual, dancing, however you to call it is supposed to last 30 days. Have you been told what all it consists of Jacob?"

"Not yet, sir. Though I am sure we shall find out soon enough?"

 

[GypsyGirl84]

Mara decided there was a law in the Universe, one as binding as any magical or mundane one.

If more than a dozen noblemen were gathered in one place, there had to be a tournament. It did not matter what the occasion, funeral or marriage, celebration or lamentation, men had to compete against each other in some form or another.

Theoretically, it was to prove their prowess to Mara, to show their worth as a potential mate. Mara suspected, though, that if she were to put a painting of herself in the stands, it would serve its purpose: to give the men attending a reason to compete against one another.

So there were tournaments. There were the standard ones of course: jousting, swordsmanship, archery. And since falconry was a key pastime in the kingdom, there were competitions there. And others not sometimes found in the noble circles, such as chess and card games from the Southern Kingdoms, ones that relied equally on luck, strategy and the gauging of human nature.

A dozen dozen tournaments were to be held, with the finals staggered out so that Mara could always be in attendance to be suitably impressed by the winner, no matter what the sport and game was.

Mara suspected that a number of men would be happy if she made no choice among the suitors this time around, so that they would have the opportunity to come back and compete again.

And there were notes. Notes requesting dinner engagements, garden walks and more intimate sessions to prove to Mara why she should choose a particular suitor to lose her virginity to.

The latter were thrown away with instructions to Rala that no type of engagement was to be made with the sender of those type of notes.

Mara did accept invitations for conversation and dinners, but always with Rala and other servants in attendance. And she instructed Rala that if Prince Pallox were to send such a request, to make it wine at sunset by the reflecting pools in the main garden. With Rala and the servants in attendance, of course.

 

[JadeKnight]

The tournament setup was a great way for the dragon to push forward his own way. There were so many tournament games to play, but he knew he couldn't play them all. He of course had used his time to learn as many combat styles as he could, easily picking them up over the years.

He finally settled on archery, swordsmanship, wrestling, and a card tournament. Jacob cautioned him not to use more strength than he needed to defeat his opponents in combat. The dragon did not wish to come off as arrogant, so he relied on his skills rather strength. He easily bested his opponents in the combat aspects of the tournaments he was in, coming out the victor. He did well in the card tournament, but his luck did not hold out on the last round, falling in second.

It was just after the evening meal when Jacob suggested to Pallox to request an audience with Mara. Following the advice, he penned the note before Jacob delivered it to Rala.

 

[GypsyGirl84]

"Why aren't you nervous?" Rala demanded, as she and Mara sat at a cloth covered table by the long reflecting pool in the middle of the garden. The pool was catching the last rays of the setting sun, the orange and pinks playing on the water's surface. Servants had already lit hanging lanterns around the table, and another servant stood ready with a bottle of red wine, a light, fruity selection imported from the Southern Kingdoms.

"What purpose would it serve to be nervous? And, as you've noticed, Rala, I haven't been nervous with the other suitors," Mara replied. "Although," she added with a frown, "I am a little concerned about my choice of wines. It's not the proper season for them, but perhaps I could have brought an ice wine from the cellar."

"You are not amusing," Rala announced, which brought a chuckle from Mara. "He's not like your other suitors, he's a..."

"Dragon," Mara finished. 'One who's been staying in our stables at night, even going so far as to make slight modifications and posting guards so he's not disturbed. But he's a guest, and one makes allowances. I think I may be the only one in the castle who hasn't seen his true form, but then, from the various gossip I've been made privy to, that form seems to shift around, depending on the storyteller. But regardless, Rala, I am the Queen here, and he is the supplicant. And I am not without my resources. Now be a dear, and go sit over at the bench over there, like a good little chaperone."

Rala huffed, but did as she was requested, taking a seat on a nearby bench, and accepting a glass of wine offered to her.

 

[JadeKnight]

The attire he had chosen consisted of a white button up, black leather pants, and a blue silk jacket with gold trim. His golden dragon medallion hung around his neck and he wore a pair of black boots. Jacob had dressed up in similar fashion, but without the jacket and medallion. Pallox took his time coming into the garden, pausing for a moment to admire the beauty around him.

After a few moments he found his way to the table Mara sat at, taking a bow for a moment.

"Thank you for accepting my request Majesty. It is an honor for me."

Jacob gave a bow to her as well before moving to take a seat on the bench beside Rala. He had warned Pallox not to say or do anything that might upset the Queen, but he figured the dragon wouldn't heed it too much.

Pallox smiled and nodded his head for a moment as he was offered a goblet of the servant, taking a sip. He placed the goblet on the table carefully before looking to the Queen.

"I do enjoy and admire your choice for our meeting tonight. The garden is quite lovely and a wonderful night for sitting beneath the stars."

 

[GypsyGirl84]

Mara had chosen her archery attire for the day, though it was not her favorite or best pastime. Still, the trousers, loose shirt and leather jerkin, was comfortable enough for the day's and evening's activities, with her hair was still pulled back in a loose ponytail.

"It's one of my favorite times to spend out here, with the day's memories lingering and the promise of the Stars to be revealed," Mara agreed. "I hope the wine is to your liking, Prince Pallox," she added. "My sommelier and I were somewhat at a loss on what vintage to serve a dragon."

 

[JadeKnight]

Pollax thought for a moment as he took another sip of the wine and then smiled a little. He took her comment of pointing him out as a dragon in stride. It proved to him that she had the brains to match the beauty.

"I find the wine quite suitable. Though it does seem a bit out of season to be served. Something with a little less fruit."

He leaned back a little as he took her in fully in the moonlight. She held a radiance about her, an air of confidence as well as a bit of arrogance. To him, most humans seemed to have some degree of arrogance, trying to outdo each other. He would have probably been the same way if there were others of his kind still around.

He took a deep breathe for a moment, taking the cool air.

"Forgive me for being blunt about this, but it seems to me that the mating ritual you have set up is a bit extravagant to be doing it this way? Unless this is common for the royalty to do on a regular basis."

He had to stifle a little chuckle as he caught Jacob putting an hand over his face in embarrassment at the question Pallox just asked, from the corner of his eye.

 

[GypsyGirl84]

"To be quite honest, it was a matter of necessity, rather than choice," Mara answered, lifting her own goblet for her attendee to refill. If Mara was put off by the question, she didn't indicate it.

"In the normal course of things," Mara continued, "I would have met potential suitors singly, as happenstance would have brought me into their presence, or they into mine. I ascended the throne earlier than expected, though." There was a brief flash of pain in Mara's eyes, that was quickly suppressed. "And as where a princess might attend various social events at her leisure and meet prospective husbands, a queen finds herself more constrained by duty."

Mara paused a moment to study the 'man' sitting before. He had chosen a handsome form, but he could have as easily picked an uncomely one. He had picked a shape for his own ends, and now she had to see if his ends and hers could find common cause.

"I probably would have been bound by a Regency of some sort when I took the throne, but..." Mara held her left hand up, and a green flame appeared in her left palm, then disappeared just as quickly. "I made it clear that I would not rule in name only. In kingdoms where someone is considered too young to rule unsupervised, my present age is when the Regency is dissolved. Most queens are married by then. Since I was not, there was a custom in place to address this situation. I believe it was a custom imported from one of the Southern Kingdoms. Ithaca maybe?" Mara frowned, then shrugged her shoulders. "No matter. I'm not sure what the custom is if I don't choose a husband at the end of the month. I may have to do this every decade."

"So tell me, Prince Pollax, what brings you to my matrimonial soiree?" This time the full force of Mara's gaze was upon the dragon in human form. "You don't strike me as the sort who would be content in being a mere consort, watching your spouse rule. And trust me, my good Prince, custom, law and my own will would ensure that all you would do is watch." This time it was Mara's aide Rala who blanched at the directness of Mara's question.

 

[JadeKnight]

He sipped the wine slowly as he listened to her speak. When she took a moment to show off her magic, he made no sort of sign of being impressed or unimpressed about it. After all, he had seen it earlier. He finished his goblet just as she finished speaking, but he stopped the servant from refilling his drink for the time being.

He almost smirked as she spoke of having complete rule by herself, her arrogance showing more fully. For him, a human who wanted full power was no different than a dragon who wanted total control as well. He had seen times before among his own kind when such a thing was attempted. It never ended well for the dragon who refused to share power to his mate or try to dictate that everyone should follow his rules.

"You would assume right on wishing to be more than a mere consort. I am looking to expand my power, be it land, treasure, etc. However I must point out that your line of thinking, that you would do everything yourself, is a very slippery slope. Tell me, what makes you believe that you could not become power-drunk without someone to counter-balance that.." he waved a dismissive hand as he saw Jacob go to speak before continuing."without a servant alone. You would not be the first I have seen to try such a thing."

 

[GypsyGirl84]

"There is truth in wine and the words of dragons, it seems," Mara allowed, making a slight toasting gesture toward Pollax. "So I could see the wisdom in your words, as far as finding a human mate is concerned. But why would I choose a dragon? History and legend of your kind speaks of you not so much as rulers of humankind, but as shepherds. Why would I wish to be bound to a mate who views me and mine as so much cattle, to be driven here and there? Cattle taken well cared of, I'm sure, but cattle still. Can you tell me truthfully, Prince Pollax, that you don't find all this offensive," Mara made a grand sweeping gesture with her arms, "having to sit here and entreat with a mere human in order to taste power again, power as you must have once known?"

 

[JadeKnight]

Pollax chuckled softly as he motioned to the servant to fill his goblet once more. He glanced for a moment towards Jacob, who was looking a little less flustered about the whole ordeal. He took another sip of wine before speaking once more.

"Perhaps at one time I would have been offended at the current events, if I was among my own kind once more. However, as we both can see, times have changed."

He paused for a moment to take a sip of the wine before speaking once more.

"And how does being a shepherd differ from being a king or queen. Both have power over the ones they oversee, protecting them from harm as much as they can. Albeit, most rulers, not all who keep their subjects from harm. A shepherd does led his flock to the slaughter when needed, but does not a ruler build up an army, only to send it out to get trimmed, slaughtered, etc when needed as well?"

He swirled the wine in the goblet for a moment.

"As far finding a mate goes, I am quite possible the last of my kind. What other race could I possible be with to possibly continue some semblance of my kind with with a human."

He gave a little chuckle for a moment.

"And dragons are known for their strive to gather as much treasure and power within their lifetime, to create a legacy, are they not?"

 

[GypsyGirl84]

Mara lost herself for a moment, staring into the wine in her goblet. Without looking up, she replied,"My father once told me that the mark of a good ruler was one who always understood that he or she is not meant to think of themselves as set above their own people, but to consider themselves part of those they govern. I rule my people, I guide them, I strive for them, but I never forget that, when the sun sets and the Stars rise to bear witness, that I am one of them."

Mara looked up at Prince Pollax, a sad smile on her face. "I suspect that would be a difficult truth for you to conceive, Prince." Standing, she motioned for Rala to join here. "Please stay and enjoy the evening and the wine, gentlemen. I have other duties to tend. Thank you again for the good counsel, Prince Pollax. Perhaps we will speak again before the month's end." Without a further word, Mara and Rala disappeared into the darkness.

 

[JadeKnight]

Pallox stood up for a moment when Mara did, bowing.

"Thank you for the wine and your company Majesty. Good night and I shall look forward to meeting you once more."

The dragon and Jacob remained standing for a few moments till she was gone, the dragon watching her every step of the way. He waved the wine servant off for the evening before finishing the goblet off. Jacob sat down across from the dragon with a sigh.

"That went as well as we could expect for tonight. I told you to be careful of what you say and you started of with that."

Pallox smirked for a moment.

"Perhaps, but you have never known of me to stray far from the truth, have you?"

Jacob shook his head for a moment.

"No, that is true. And you have come along way in being accepted by us humans, but it looks like you still have plenty to learn."

"And plenty of time old man. At least a few hundred more years. Perhaps this isn't such a great idea, with your race being but a drop in the bucket when compared to me."

Jacob raised an eyebrow for a moment as the dragon's backtracking of his own idea. He shook his head softly for a moment before reaching out and putting a hand lightly over the dragon's to comfort him.

"That kind of thinking will get you nowhere prince. While we may be short-lived in comparison, we do try to make the best of what time we have. True, you may have other human mates in the future, the gods willing, but that is later. This is but your first step in learning how to better yourself in knowing about us better. Just keep going forward."

The dragon smiled at the man's words and squeezed his hand in return.

"You were always there with a supportive word Jacob. Thank you for your help. Let's go to bed and see what tomorrow has in store."

 

[GypsyGirl84]

"May I ask your thoughts on the Dragon Prince?" Rala asked, when her and her Queen had found their way back to their quarters.

"In many ways, our Prince Pollax is indistinguishable from a good deal of my human suitors in the Great Hall," Mara said, as she allowed Rala to help her undress for her evening bath. "He feels righteously assured of his right to rule, and that naturally it is for everyone's best interest for him to rule. Considers those he rules beneath him. And our Prince Pollax would never even dream of making a sacrifice for those he rules. He would find a way to convince himself that such a sacrifice would ultimately serve no one, and thus it would be best for others to suffer, rather than that he should have to give something up. One of our philosophers once said that Man is not the rational creature; He is the rationalizing one. I think that would doubly apply to our Prince Pollax. Still," Mara allowed, as she stepped into her waiting scented bath, "He has done our Kingdom and the people beyond our borders a Service, though I suspect it had more to do with his taste for power than any innate desire to protect those he shepherds."

Mara's conversation was interrupted by a lady-in-waiting rushing into the room. "My Queen, there is a flying beast coming from the East, a lion with the wings of an eagle. On its back..."

Mara's lifted a hand to quiet the messenger. Her eyes glowed briefly for a moment. "Tell the guards to give the man on its back all due respect when the beast lands, and to prepare the man quarters suitable to someone of high rank." As the lady-in-waiting scurried away, Mara stood up and stepped out of her bath. "I'll rinse myself off, Rala," she instructed her advisor. "Prepare one of my formal dresses. An Observer from the Hall has arrived."

 

[JadeKnight]

The walk back to the stables was quiet between the two. It was only after Pallox had shifted that Jacob decided to speak up.

"What do you think of the Queen so far, prince?"

The dragon was about to close his eyes, grunting a little at the question. He lifted his head up to look at the man. Since he didn't not have the tongue to speak verbally, his voice was heard in Jacob's mind.

What do I think of her? As of this moment, I see an arrogant little woman who's merely putting on a show for an audience who's watching her moves. She is like a builder trying to build a house out of mud and sticks. Someone comes along to give her better tools to work with than her own two hands. She takes those tools and puts them up on display for everyone to see, but does not use them because she believes she can do better with just her hands. That is what she is in my mind currently. I will tell you if that will change anytime soon.

Jacob shook his head for a moment before leaving to let the dragon sleep.

 

[JadeKnight]

.....