This post occurs shortly after the rescue of the kidnapped dragons…

The first rays of morning pierced the dark of the room, cutting shadows and ushering in a new day. Devon was already awake. His body had been trained to rouse at dawn and sadly, no matter how much he desired to sleep in, his old habits held firm, dictating his routine. He carefully inched his way to the edge of the bed he shared with his queen trying his best not to disturb the gold dragon. As his feet touched the stone floor he heard her voice.

“Where would you be off to my love?” She asked without opening her eyes.

“Apologies my queen. I didn’t mean to wake you.”

“I appreciate the consideration Devon, but you haven’t answered my question.” A golden iris flashed open to look upon him.

“I thought I’d walk the gardens, perhaps practice in the map room before breakfast my queen.”

“My queen…my queen…I have a name you know.”

He knelt on the bed and crawled back to her. “Yes Aliyeah I know.” He kissed her cheekbone. 

“Much better. Devon, I need you in the palace today. Azuria is coming to call and she has something she claims is of great consequence to discuss.”

“Sounds like your affair my love. I’m certain the queen of conceit has very little use for my company.”

“You’d be wrong. She specifically asked that you be present.”

“Me? What could her royal hubris want with me?”

“Be nice. She’s my clutchmate you know.”

“So is Sable. Couldn’t I skulk off the Sunken Fen with your good tidings instead?”

Aliyeah laughed. “If I didn’t know any better I’d begin to think you enjoy that fetid swamp.”

Devon smiled. “Be nice. She’s your clutchmate…remember?”

“Touché. Still I’d appreciate it if you made yourself available. Consider it a favor.”

“I live for your favor, my queen.” He grinned and kissed her again.

“Good. She’ll be arriving at midday. Enjoy your walk my love.” She watched him leave before closing her eyes.

As Devon walked from the bedchamber through the gold spire he began to wonder what the Blue Queen could possibly want with him. While it’s true she supported Aliyeah in naming him Highlord, a part of him always felt she did so more for the relationship she shared with the Gold Queen rather than any true affection for him. Most times, when they would converse he’d get the feeling that engaging with him was an inconvenient necessity more so than polite social decorum. She always carried herself with an air of self import, as if she was simply better than every other dragon, the other queens included. He knew most dragons were hardly known for their humility but Azuria Skystorme might possibly be the most arrogant he had ever encountered.

As he entered the brick mosaic of the map room he saw a feminine shape, scantily dressed, laying in the early morning sun enjoying the heat reflected from the stone. A scent of sea spray carried lightly in the air. 

“Good Morning Rayne.” He smiled. “You’re up early.”

“No more so than you my lord. Besides, it would be a terrible misuse of time to allow all these wonderful rays of solar warmth to go unappreciated.”

He chuckled. “We can’t have that now can we?”

She tapped the hot brick next to her. “Plenty of room Devon.”

He walked over and laid on the heated surface looking up into the clear sky.

Rayne read his expression. “What vexes you my lord?”

“How well do you know Azuria?”

“The Blue Queen? Fairly well. She’s a few years my senior but I’ve been in court most of my life. Why do you ask?”

“Aliyeah says we are to meet with her today. She specifically requested that I be in attendance.”

“Wow. Her royal haughtiness deems you worthy to sit in her presence? My, you have moved up in our society. Perhaps in the decades to come she might even acknowledge you…or do I dare to dream, talk with you?” She chuckled, obviously amused with herself.

“We’ve had conversations in the past. You’ve been there. I’m just curious as to why she’d make it a point to ask me to attend her meeting with Aliyeah. I haven’t done anything to offend the Blue Flight have I?”

“Not that I’m aware of my lord. You could be overthinking it. Maybe it’s no more than her desire to thank you for rescuing Aethe from hell. She was one of the noble born you freed from Stygia.”

“You think?”

A wide grin ran across the bronze dragon’s face. “Azuria showing gratitude to you? Absolutely not.” She laughed. “ I was just having some fun with you my lord.”

“Thanks. Remind me again why I keep you around?”

Rayne turned her head and smiled. “My charming personality.” Her grin grew even wider. “And I sleep naked.”

Devon rolled his eyes and blushed a bit but didn’t say anything.

“Well I’m glad to see I can still embarrass you, even after all this time.”

“Yeah splendid.” He smirked.

Some hours later Devon found himself back in his bedchamber. Aliyeah had laid out regal attire for him that complimented her own choice of dress. She smiled affectionately as she secured the top button of his doublet. “There. You look quite handsome my love. Gold and black suit you well. The bronze buttons are a lovely accent too.”

“Thank you my queen. You’re quite beautiful yourself, though if I may be so bold, you do look exquisite in everything… and nothing.”

She smiled and kissed him. “I know she can be a touch off putting but she is one of my oldest and dearest friends. In our world, clutchmates hold a special bond that transcends the color of your scale.”

“I understand. She’s just so…aloof all the time.”

“Now you’re being polite. Describing her so would be akin to describing Sable’s vicious temper as a tad emotional.”

“The Black Queen’s been nothing but good to me Aliyeah.”

The gold dragon wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him. “Clutchmate.” She smiled. “Though I must confess she does seem to hold an uncharacteristic fondness for you. You must have made some impression on her during your time in her lands.”

“I had good counsel. If what you say is true, Maya deserves the credit for it.”

Aliyeah smiled. “You are far too humble for a dragon my love.” She tilted her head slightly to the side. “To be honest, I did have my concerns about her before I agreed to assign her to your guard, but Sable insisted it would be an honor to have her serve. She’d been described as incorrigible, angry and dour yet when she’s by your side she is impressive, regal and protective. If she deserves the accolades for your acceptance by the Black Flight then certainly it is to your credit she behaves so.”

“I like to think we compliment each other in much the same way my other guardians offer something just a little different from each other. Each one of the dragons you appointed to escort me have done so admirably and as a whole, get along quite well together.”

“I agree. You inspire their loyalty too, an important characteristic to be sure. None would ever doubt your concern for their well being despite the function they perform. They truly care about you Devon. It’s not just a duty for them.”

“I care for them as well. They are my trusted companions. We spend a lot of time together.”

“I know. I sometimes feel envious of it.”

“You know my heart belongs to you Aliyeah.”

“Yes. I’m aware of that too and I’m sure there are those envious of that fact as well. Shall we go my love?”

Devon hooked his arm through hers and escorted her as she led them to the grand dining room.

“We’re meeting here?” He asked, confused. “I thought for sure you’d receive her in the audience hall.”

“I thought a luncheon would be nice. There is no need for courtly formality today. It’s simply a visit from an old friend.”

“As you say my queen.”

Upon entering the dining hall, Cassie and Cam who had been sitting at the table rose to greet them.

“My queen.” They greeted in unison. 

“My lord.” Cassie smiled.

“Good morning Devon.” Cam said brightly. “It feels nice to have you home for a bit. You certainly look healthier for it though considerably less rested than I would have expected.”

Aliyeah smirked.

“Yes it’s nice to be in a place where I’m not surrounded by people who want to kill me for a change.”

“It’s early Darkstar. Give it time.” Cam snarked.

“Thanks Cam. Love you too.”

Devon reached for a decanter of amber liquid and poured a glass full. He quickly drained half its measure. Immediately his blood ignited with the sensation of lightning running through his veins as his sire’s celerity burned away the potent alcohol.

“Hey.” Cam cautioned. “You may want to go easy on that. We are expecting company you know.”

“Oh I’m aware.” He said, finishing the glass and pouring another. 

“Not to worry Cam. He can’t get drunk.” Cassie explained.

“Oh the vampyr thing. I forget sometimes.”

Aliyeah slanted her eyes a bit but grinned. “I don’t.”

The double doors to the dining hall opened as two armored figures wearing the sigil of the queen’s guard and colors of the Gold Flight entered the room. “Her royal highness, Azuria Skystorme of the Blue Flight and her attachés.

The Blue Queen and her entourage entered then bowed respectfully. “Your Grand Resplendence.”

“Welcome Azuria. Good of you to visit.”

“Aliyeah darling.” The Blue Queen sang in a most pretentious tone. “So nice of you to receive me. It’s been far too long since we’ve sat socially.” She wore a dress of soft satin, sequined with dark blue sapphires, stitched from its low neckline down to its ankle length hem. The gown boasted a silver woven lining that could be seen as she extended her arms, taking the gold dragon’s hands into her own. She wore a gaudy platinum necklace with larger sapphires and diamonds and rings on both hands to match. Her midnight blue hair had been pulled back with a bejeweled comb completing her ensemble. She smiled as she kissed her queen on both cheeks. “And may I compliment the fine dress of your consort. Certainly it’s your eye that guided his fashion.”

“Thank you Azuria. I try.” Aliyeah winked at Devon.

“And succeed.” The blue dragon turned her head to look at him. “Hello Devon.” She smiled politely.

“Good afternoon your grace. It’s truly an honor to host you.”

“Of course it is.” She said lifting her chin. “Oh my. Where are my manners…” She said in feigned embarrassment clutching her hand to her chest. “Allow me to introduce Gyniss, my personal protector.”

“My queen, my lord and ladies.” The stout man bowed respectfully. He was attired in the armor of the royal guard of the Blue Flight.

 “And this young lady would be Vignette Kyani.” Azuria motioned to a well dressed woman, nearly Devon’s height but slight of frame with dark piercing eyes and hair that was cut to frame her face. It braided down her neck, over her shoulder and rested on her chest. Her high cheekbones spoke to her noble birth.

“It’s an honor to be in your presence my queen. She said with a bow. She met Devon’s eyes for a paused moment. “And you my lord. Your exploits are the stuff of legend.”

“A remarkable truth my dear.” The Blue Queen said in agreement.

“Please sit.” Aliyeah offered as Devon pulled a chair for her to be seated. Servants put out food and drink. One of the dragonmen attendants filled Devon’s glass again and left the bottle on the table, nodding as he walked away. 

Azuria smiled and sat as well. “I must congratulate you Aliyeah. It was astonishing how quickly you were able to resolve the disappearance of our missing noble ladies and with nary a clue as to what could have happened to them to work with.”

“Yes well. The Highlord and his allies deserve the dragon’s share of the credit. They are quick to action, wise and resourceful.”

“My queen is far too gracious.” Devon interceded. “We were only acting at her direction.”

“Even so Devon, you’ve become quite the topic of discussion among the royal class. I’m pleased to be able to say I was among the first to support Aliyeah’s decision to name you to the title.”

“Yes your grace. It was incredibly kind and generous for you and Queen Ebonscale to do so.”

“While you speak true Devon, I’m sure the fact that we three are clutchmates must have weighed into her decision. You were aware of that fact, no?” She looked to Aliyeah for confirmation.

“Yes your grace. Why just this morning our queen made mention of it and her love for you.”

“How sweet.” She grinned. “Aliyeah, darling…current events have provoked me to thought. Devon has been your consort for a number of years now. In fact I remember the day you brought him here, much to the surprise of …well everyone. You must have known he was something special then to have trusted Camille to supervise him though sadly we all know how that turned out.”

Devon could see red rising in Cam’s mocha colored cheeks. 

“So she appoints another gold to look after your pe… consort. That would be you Cassandra? Correct?”

“Yes your grace.” Cassie answered through her teeth and forced smile. Her hand found Devon’s knee and she squeezed.

“Then he was banished back to his people for a short time and the Lady Skyphyre agreed to take on the role of protector. I mean a bronze dragon travelling to Faerun is not so scandalous I guess despite her noble birth.”

Devon finished the rest of the whiskey in his glass. Side eyeing Cassie who shook her head no.

Fortunately that was a short lived expedition and he was able to return to us… at which time Sable offered her sour little handmaiden to act as lady protector…”

“Pop!” Shards of crystal fell to the table as the glass Devon was holding broke in his hand.

“I am sorry, your grace. Too firm of a grip I suppose.” Devon mouthed some arcane words and the fragments of glass drew back together good as the day it was made.

Aliyeah cocked an eyebrow at him as Cassie once again squeezed his knee.

“Wonderful trick.” Azuria said pleasantly. “Ahh where was I… Oh, Sable’s dour handmaiden. Well you could imagine the shock among some of the chromatics when a gold consort took on a black guardian. Many among the green and white flights are not quite as progressive as Sable and myself. And don’t get me started on Alizaria and her brood.”

Aliyeah could sense Devon was struggling to maintain his decorum. Another insult, particularly where Maya was concerned, could cause him to react in a manner that would be diplomatically catastrophic to say the least.

“Does this history lesson have a purpose, Azuria?”

“Why yes. I’m curious to know why he doesn’t count a blue dragon among his guard. I mean even Jenna’s little clutchmate, you know… what’s her name?” She looked to Vignette.

“Annika.” Devon answered for her.

“Yes that’s the one. Even she has an appointment… And she’s a copper!” She shook her head with some disdain. “I mean other than your metallic brethren the only chromatic represented is Amaya Malnyx?! The daughter of Eomyrosis the Black? Didn’t the Mistress of Whispers threaten to kill him?”

“Torture then murder. Yes” Devon affirmed.

“And you trust her daughter with his safety?” She shook her head in disapproval.

“I do.” Devon said with a brilliant blue glow emanating from his eyes.

Cassie felt the room cool. She squeezed his knee again and whispered. “Moy gospodin. Pozhaluysta, ne nado. (My lord. Please don’t.)”

Azuria smiled brightly. “Such beautiful eyes Devon. I’ve never seen them sparkle like that. They rage like a storm. I can understand Aliyeah’s attraction to them.”

A look of warning from his queen and he swallowed hard. The light faded from his eyes.

“Aliyeah. He’s become too politically important for that if you ask me. His accomplishments have brought great support for your reign and much honor to the dragons that he counts as companions as well as the flights they represent.”

“What are you suggesting?” The Queen of Dragons asked.

“I would consider it a great courtesy my queen if you would allow me to offer Vignette as guardian for your consort. It would mean a great deal to the Blue Flight and showcase the love and respect we have for each other as clutchmates. I would like the Blue Flight to be properly represented in the renown he has brought to our realm.”

“That is incredibly gracious of you Azuria.” Aliyeah replied. “How does your young ward feel about it?”

“She considers it an honor.” The Blue Queen answered.

“I’d like to hear it from her.” The Gold Queen insisted.

Vignette smiled politely, “It is as her highness says. I would consider it a great honor to serve, my queen.”

“Devon?” Aliyeah asked.

“You’re ok with the idea of serving a human?” He asked the young blue dragon.

Azuria scoffed. “Ha. You’ve a wonderful sense of humor Devon. You could hardly be considered a human anymore.”

Devon held the gaze of the young handmaiden. The storm blue of her eyes were fierce and focused. “If my lord will have me, I swear to do as he commands.” She answered.

Cam had a skeptical look about her. Aliyeah seemed caught off guard by the request.

“Khorosho. (Fine.)” I accept your generosity, your grace. Thank you.” He bowed respectfully to the Blue Queen.

“Spasibo, moy gospodin. YA ne razocharuyu.“ “Thank you my lord. You won’t be disappointed.”

Cassie and Cam wore looks of shock.

Azuria grinned. “You’ll find she is well educated and as resourceful as you’d expect from the best of my flight.”

“It’s settled then.” The Gold Queen responded.

“Thank you Aliyeah.” The Blue Queen said rising to her feet. ”I hate that I can’t stay for a longer visit but I’m afraid I must return to The Cobalt Steppes. I won’t soon forget the courtesy shown me this day.” 

Aliyeah stood and The Blue Queen grasped her hands once more kissing her on each cheek. “Goodbye darling. We’ll talk again soon.”

“Soon.” Aliyeah replied.

“Vignette will remain here Devon, to learn what is required of her. Please feel free to visit The Stormlands once she is settled in. I’d love the opportunity to show you the hospitality of the Blue Flight.”

“You are far too kind, your grace.” He bowed.

“I know.” She smirked. 

Gyniss rushed to open the door for his queen and they departed, leaving Vignette with the Gold Queen and her court.

Aliyeah stepped behind Devon resting her hands on his shoulders. “Are you certain this is what you want Lady Kyani, running after him is no easy task.”

“It is my queen. I believe it to be a tremendous honor to serve with the highlord… And I can appreciate a challenge, your grace.

“Very well. I’ll leave you to it then. Devon my love, would you and Cassie be so kind as to settle her in. Perhaps introduce her to the rest of your guard.”

“Of course my queen.”

“Make time for me later Darkstar.” Cam said as she stood. 

“Of course Cam. Will this evening be amenable?”

“Yeah. Sure. Fine.” She exchanged a knowing look with Cassie who nodded and the two gold dragons left.

A few moments of silence passed.

“So Vignette. Where did you learn the tongue of my homeland?”

“My queen had me tutored in a great many languages. Your Sanguinari was taught to me during my time as guardian of the atheneum at the Cobalt Steppes.”

“I see. And if I may ask… Were you taught to dance?”

“Just a little my lord, mostly ceremonial waltzes for royal affairs.”

“It’s a good start. Fortunately Cassie is an amazing dancer and quite a good instructor.”

“I’ll do as you say my lord, though I’d much prefer to learn at your hand.”

Cassie wore a look of surprise. “That’s rather forward and presumptuous.”

“I mean no disrespect Cassandra. I would just prefer to learn from the best.”

“Then you’ll find no better dancer instructor.” Devon reassured her.

“As you say my lord.”

“You can call me Devon, Vignette.”

The blue dragon smiled and nodded.

“Come. I’ll show you to my office, and then we can take a walk about the spire.”

The three walked quietly through the halls, Cassie on his left, Vignette on his right.

They approached the large ashwood double doors and the gold dragon stepped ahead opening them for her liege. Devon walked in to find the room already occupied. Rayne was sitting in an over sized cushioned armchair facing the door. Nika had been sorting and organizing the new books Devon brought back from his forays to Dis and Stygia. Standing to the left of his desk, arms folded was Maya. Her scowl was thick and eyes slanted. 

“What did her royal attitude want with you my lord?” Maya asked with a sneer.

“She asked that I take on a new guardian from the Blue Flight.”

“To what end? You have us.” Maya asked, not hiding her disdain. 

“To the end that she felt the Blue Flight should be represented among my guard.” As Devon answered his long time companion, he drew Vignette forward. “My friends, this is the Lady Vignette Kyani of the Blue Flight. She’s one of us now.”

Maya’s scowl turned to shock. “Vinnie? Is that you?”

“Hello Amaya. It’s been some time.”

“Wait, you two know each other?” Devon asked.

Maya’s stare could have bored a hole through the blue dragon’s face. “Vinnie. What are you doing here?”

“I believe my lord has already explained.”

“You mean our lord don’t you?”

“Oh yes. Of course.” She walked into the room. “Copper skin. Mischievous smirk. You must be Annika.”

The young dragon nodded.

“Blonde hair, bronze skin. Rayne?”

“Pleased to meet you.” She smiled from her chair.

“Vignette. I thought you were still at the atheneum.” Maya said.

“I was. My queen asked me to leave that position and accept this one instead. I was only too happy to be chosen for the honor.”

“His friends are human Vignette. Are you going to be ok with that?” The black dragon hissed.

“No less than you cousin.”

“Cousins? Did Azuria know?” The Highlord asked.

“Clutchmate Devon and I’m certain she did. I’m warning you Vinnie if you plan on any duplicity or do anything to threaten him, I’ll melt you down and freeze the puddle.” The acrid odor of acid wafted on the frozen breath of her exhalation.    

“Do you two have a problem?” Devon asked.

“Yes.” Maya scowled.

“Not at all my lord.” Vignette replied.

“Maya?” Devon questioned.

“Forget it Devon. It was a long time ago.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes my lord.” 

“This should be interesting.” Rayne said with a smile as she leaned back in her chair.

“Vignette would you be more comfortable residing in the blue spire while at court or in a room closer to the rest of us.”

“The blue spire is quite a distance away. Perhaps somewhere nearer would be better, I’d much prefer to be readily available should you have a need to call on me.”

“Very well.” 

“I’ll see to it my lord.” Maya offered stepping purposely forward.

“Thanks but no. Cassie would you mind?”

“Of course not my lord. Follow me Vignette. I’ll give you the grand tour and find you a bedchamber.”

Vignette smiled politely. “By your leave my lord.”

“Granted.”

She turned and left with Cassandra.

“Ok darlin let’s hear it.” Devon said as he motioned to the door closing it.

“There’s nothing to say.”

“Nika. Would you excuse us for a few minutes?”

“Of course Devon.” The copper dragon said then exited the room.

“Maya?”

She glared at him for a purposeful moment. “Very well…” The black dragon sighed before she begrudgingly told her tale.