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ok - you can stop the death threats now (j/k) - here's 49 - after struggling with health issues (curse you kidneys!) laptops that ate entire pages and generally cursing and sweatingo over said laptop I finally managed it - its not been proofed yet but Im sure youll cope. Yes there is yiff, no its not James and cill..next chapter I promise. No there will not be vamps or weres - no zombies either..there will be other dragon clans involved..later..

Hopefully this big chapter will satisfy the hordes - Paypal Donations welcome at [email protected] - all contributions will go towards publishing the dead tree version. Im not in this for the money.

Chapter 49

The next morning dawned grey and drizzly, thick clouds pregnant with the promise of rain hung ominously over the keep, threatening everyone with the prospect of a damp day.

Duncan had enjoyed an excellent night's sleep for a change and was awake before Martin showed up with the day's agenda, the seneschal cocking a surprised eyebrow at his suddenly jaunty lord.

"I'm sorry Milord, You are going hunting?" he asked as Duncan threw a forest-green jerkin over his shirt.

"That's right Martin" replied Duncan, grinning at the hapless seneschal "Don't wait up for me, this is an important diplomatic occasion".

Stepping over to his desk he retrieved Father Champlain's' letter and passed it over.

"Please see this list happens and send out the invitations, the wedding shall be held in seven days so we want everyone to be ready."

Martin swallowed nervously and looked at the list of names "Er... very good Sir" he replied awkwardly.

They were really going to have a dragoness marry a human in their chapel?

He could see this was going to be a problem from the start. Saluting smartly though, he turned and left, closing the door behind him so Duncan wouldn't see the worry on his face.

* * *

Katreen was cheerfully preening and humming away happily to herself in her den.

Meron peered in at her curiously, she was obviously enjoying the prestige of being an ambassador but he felt that she was perhaps throwing herself into the role too rapidly. After all - going hunting with a human was all very well but it seemed to him that all too much attention was being lavished upon this particular human, and why was she insisting that she and the human be allowed to hunt as a couple instead of with the rest of the pack?

He frowned as she hefted the spear she had been given and gave it a twirl.

"Be careful out there" he warned her quietly. "You know we can't trust humans"

Katreen gave a sly smile that disturbed him "I don't think you will have to worry about Duncan" she said, sitting back on her haunches and planting the butt of the spear into the ground.

Meron shifted uneasily, "Are you sure?" he asked, unnerved at what had gotten into his sister.

Katreen cocked her head to one side and clucked reproachfully "I'll be sure today" she replied, a tone in her voice that worried Meron greatly.

* * *

Nokala awoke to the sound of raised mental voices and sighed. The arrival of the prodigal offspring the previous night had not been easy.

Nakkour, after hugging and being teary-eyed over the pair had then proceeded to harangue them for their actions and judging from the sounds it had not subsided even after a good nights sleep.

He raised himself lazily and stretched luxuriantly, enjoying the stress along his muscles as he tried to filter out the noise. Stepping from his room he slowly wandered his way towards the main cavern.

Nakkour was indeed in fine voice; her young standing in front of her, heads hanging in shame as she listed their faults, punctuating each with overly-dramatic gestures. Nokala watched as she mimed having her heart ripped out for the third time before deciding to step in.

"Enough!" he bellowed before halting abruptly, aghast at the reaction he witnessed in Nakkour, the dragoness cowering, literally shielding herself with her wings and trembling in abject terror.

Nokala blinked in shock, what had Divitchka done to her to make her so scared?

He immediately settled back into a non-aggressive posture and lowered his voice to apologize as Carlina entered the room, rushing to Nakkours' side and hugging her close whilst directing a venomous look at her mate.

Nokala cleared his throat apologetically and stepped back, trembling a little himself as he wandered back to the pool room. Something had to be done about Divitchka and he sadly realized that he was likely the one who would have to do it. Perhaps presenting Nakkour with his head would help her in facing her fears.

Glumly staring at his paws he wondered how to go about finding the renegade, but he also realized that all he had to do was wait. He shook himself determinedly, grimly deciding that he was not going to wait and wondering at his own sanity, he started planning how to train a pair of unready hatchlings - one human and one temporary human - how to fight and kill dragons.

* * *

Caroline lay awake in her bedroom and pondered the day ahead, she had finally managed to fall asleep and awoken with a start, wondering where she was and why her room had changed so much.

Remembering the events of the last couple of days she sighed and leant back, her eyes falling to the tumble of clothing dumped beside the bed, she needed a maid, perhaps two - she thought whilst frowning at the mess.

Standing up she stretched languidly before selecting a clean dress from the pile and somewhat clumsily managed to squeeze into it.

After washing her face in the ewer and shuffling into her felted boots she felt more able to cope with the day ahead. Although she gave a grimace at the memory of James and Cill - such an odd name - she thought to herself. It was obvious they were in love; you just had to look at them to realize that.

She had agreed to be a bridesmaid though and she would follow through with that no matter how it felt, after all - no-one but her and Tomako knew she was here to find James, so there was little chance of humiliation.

Finding her thoughts drifting more towards her own dilemma with Tomako she growled and sat down on the bed once more. She would hunt him down and let him know exactly what she had in mind.

Around the corner from the barracks, Tomako appeared in the misty ring beside his sister, embracing one another before parting, somewhat relieved to have escaped further scolding from their mother through the timely yet somewhat embarrassing intervention of Nokala.

He quickly made his way to the smithy so as to help Ronald prepare for the day, excited as Desmond had promised he would start learning bladesmithing .

Ronald had also heard the rumors of the rescue and begged Tomako for the story about how he had saved Caroline.

Tomako told him a somewhat inaccurate version of events but finished with how Caroline wasn't supposed to know about the dragons and a wide-eyed Ronald solemnly swore he would keep his secret, feeling a quiet thrill at this trust.

After making sure no-one was watching, Tomako drew a deep breath and directed a hot blue flame through his ducts and into the furnace area, firing the charcoal into an almost instant red heat. Pumping the bellows a few times the forge started to draw of its own accord, the ruddy glow reflecting off the walls as he brought it up to its proper temperature.

Casting his eye round the weapons and shields ranged upon the walls he realized that had he worn armor that night, he would not have been injured and perhaps retained enough control to prevent his rampage. Shaking his head he tried to put the incident in the past, he had made enough mistakes and it was time to do as he had been told by the clanmaster and stay out of trouble.

He never dreamt that trouble would be looking for him instead.

* * *

Eriga and Gergid chattered excitedly to one another as they walked through the halls of the clan. Shalla had spent an excited few minutes telling them both of the joys of mating and how it had made her feel and the pair of young dragonesses felt their own loins grow warm at the thought.

Each was in a small private world of fantasy as they approached the cavern of crystal light; the rippling display caused by reflected sunlight was one of the few joys they were able to share away from their home lairs.

Today's display was promising to be spectacular and both dragonesses were looking forward to watching the ever-shifting patterns. They shared the private secret of Shalla's new mate together and made clandestine plans of their own to obtain their own humans to test if their friends experience was true with all human males.

Stepping into the chamber they looked around, curiously it was empty of others but feeling no alarm they wandered in slowly, after all, what could harm them - here in the heart of the clan halls?

Watching the pink and golden ripples they giggled quietly to one another on a private band and discussed when they should go back to the keep now that Shalla had a permanent home there, failing to notice the menacing shadow detaching itself from the far wall.

* * *

Duncan's cap sat jauntily upon his head as he wandered deeper into the forest, it had been some time since he had taken a day off and he inhaled deeply of the wood-scented fresh air. Stepping lightly down the path he felt a sudden surge of happiness that he had not experienced for awhile. The business of the keep was depressing most of the time and since James's arrival the stress had increased still further.

He paused a moment and considered the luck that had kept him alive the last couple of weeks. He also pondered Jasmina's words at what the future held for him, his late wife had been his entire life despite being barren and he felt somewhat guilty at the feelings that had been steadily developing over Katreen.

Thoughts of the gryphoness confused him, why should he feel so about her? What turned him into a fumble-fingered, nervous swain when he was near her?

He was deep in thought when he arrived at the clearing where they had arranged to meet.

Sliding his pack off his shoulders he shifted onto a not-so-comfy rock to await her arrival, his musings making him grin - how foolish he was, as an ambassador she had to be friendly and he was misinterpreting her manners - it was understandable as she was not human and not used to the nuances of human interaction.

He was on the verge of convincing himself of this when he caught sight of the gryphoness as she slowly wandered upright down the path towards him. He felt his breath catch as he watched her move with feline grace and balance, wings furled, tail swishing and eyes bright as she noticed his reaction. Gripping the steel spear in one hand she bowed fluidly towards him.

"Good Day Lord Duncan" she murmured, her glorious eyes meeting his, causing his heart to pound.

"Please Lady Katreen, there is no need to be formal" he murmured, bowing in return "I would be honored if you would just call me Duncan"

"Very well Duncan" replied Katreen, looking pleased "and please call me Katreen" she leaned a little closer "Or Kat if you like"

Duncan flushed and nodded "I would like that, Kat" he murmured, standing up slowly. "Shall we see if we can flush out a boar or two?"

As they walked off together, curious fairy eyes watched them leave from a nearby bush.

* * *

Eriga frantically backed up against the wall of the cavern, terror on her muzzle as Divitchka loomed over her, hatred in his eyes.

"Where is she" he growled slowly, venom in his tone as he held her gaze like a snake taunting a mouse. Gergid had fled whimpering at the first opportunity, running for the main hall. Divitchka was not interested in her as he already had his prey firmly in his grasp.

Eriga squeaked "I don't know" and let out a sob of pain as a talon slowly dragged down her shoulder, drops of blood staining the floor.

"You will tell me" Divitchka thundered menacingly, "I know you know where they are"

Eriga bit her tongue, trying to avoid breaking her oath but she could not prevent the image of the keep from appearing in her mind where it was forcefully and triumphantly plucked by Divitchka.

"So, and what of the human?" he growled, leaning closer, probing deeper as the helpless youngster writhed in his grasp.

Eriga fought back valiantly but was no match for his powerful mind. What he saw then shocked him beyond thought, black rage filling his heart. His daughter had coupled with one of the monkeys - His family honor was stained forever - there was only one thing to do now.

Tossing Eriga aside with a roar of anger and despair he stormed from the cavern without so much as a backwards glance, leaving the weeping, traumatized dragoness curled in a corner.

Gergid ran down the hall towards the clanmasters quarters, frantically hammering on his door, tears running down her snout until Osedax appeared, wasting no time they both rushed to the cavern. There was no sign of Divitchka but Osedax gathered up Eriga in his arms and carried her back to his chambers.

Whimpering softly, Eriga lay still as he healed her shoulder wound and gave her some of his calming tea to drink

Whilst outwardly calm, Osedax was himself furious. He had underestimated the determination of Divitchka's rage and now an innocent dragoness lay injured both mentally and physically while several lives now lay in the balance as a tearful Gergid explained what had transpired.

Grimly, he decided to warn Marre and Nokala that the situation was progressing faster than desired and that drastic action would be needed.

* * *

Katreen's hearing was obviously far keener than Duncan's, her eartufts twitching gently as she crouched down, hearing the tell-tale rustle in the bushes ahead. Duncan followed suit and knelt beside her.

"How many?" he murmured to her, proximity to her warm, muscular body sending a thrill down his back.

Katreen reached down and dragged three talons across the soil twice, not taking her gaze from the bushes ahead.

Duncan nodded - a sow and her piglets. Most likely the boar would not be far.

He felt his heart pound in anticipation of the hunt. The surreal presence of the gryphoness crouching beside him heightening the sensation.

He let his gaze slowly travel down her back, the dark fur looked soft and his fingers itched to stroke it. Swallowing nervously he wrenched his attention back to the matter at hand as Katreen drew further instructions in the soil, he would go to the left and she to the right.

Meeting her gaze he nodded in agreement, the sow and piglets would run but the boar would most likely stay and defend their retreat.

Separating slowly, Duncan crept around the left side of the thicket; soft grunting could be heard from within as the pigs assumed themselves safe.

Gripping his spear tightly he waited until he thought Katreen had positioned herself similarly.

Letting out a yell he jumped into the thicket, spear at the ready. Squealing in terror the sow panicked and ran for it, piglets scurrying beneath her sizable bulk as she took off for the nearest trees.

That left the boar - Duncan drawing in a sharp breath as he looked it over, where was Katreen? He only had a brief moment to consider this when the boar charged, a good two hundred pounds of spittle-flecked rage.

Dropping to a knee Duncan plunged the base of the spear into the earth and held on, his eyes taking in the sizable tushes as it snarled towards him, time seemed to slow as he braced himself and with a yell to distract it at the last instant, guided the tip of the spear squarely at its chest.

The boar, tiny red eyes fixed in rage upon its target struck the spear tip full on, impaling itself along half its length.

Duncan rolled to one side as the boar squealed in terror and pain, blood staining its tusks. Jumping to his feet once more he reached for the dagger at his hip to finish the beast when with a banshee cry, Katreen leapt upon the frantically struggling boar, wielding her new spear like a surgical instrument she struck at its neck, severing the spinal column and putting a merciful end to the beasts' pain.

Straddling the body she gave another cry of triumph, pulling the spear free and turned to grin at Duncan.

"Not bad" she chuckled, wiping the spear clean on the boar's spiky fur. "You attack from the front while we tend to attack from behind"

Puffing from the exertion, Duncan nodded and retrieved his own spear from the boar's chest "We make a good team then" he chuckled once he had steadied his hands. "I'm glad you think so" murmured Katreen as she eyed him "now, how shall we carry this?"

Duncan grinned and opened his pack, taking out a sling "He's a lot bigger than I expected so it will take both of us" he said, laying the cloth out and grunting as he rolled the boars body onto it. Tying a neat knot at either end, he slid a hastily cut pole through and lifted it to his shoulder "We really should clean up before we present this to your leader though" he said, looking down at his bloodstained hands and clothing.

"I know just the place" purred Katreen as she took the other end of the sling.

* * *

James and Cill arrived at Marre's lair together; the old dragon idly waving a talon through a violet flame as he watched a concoction bubble above it. He sighed and beckoned them closer.

*We have a problem* he murmured *Shalla's father attacked one of her friends this morning and we believe he successfully forced your location from her*

Cill gasped and sat back on her haunches, *Is she alright?* she whispered, shocked and feeling that she was responsible somehow.

Marre nodded, *She is, the Clanmaster healed her though she is still in shock from the attack*

James and Cill exchanged worried glances "That means he will be coming after us soon then?" asked James

Marre nodded and sighed *It does, but he will likely come alone, I doubt others will associate with him after this - However I doubt he cares at this point*

James envisaged a rampant, raging dragon descending on the keep, the terrified townspeople running and screaming, the flames and the deaths. He grit his teeth and felt a rising anger build in his breast.

"How long do we have?" he asked the elder, fists clenching at his sides, not noticing the sudden glow dancing round his knuckles.

Marre leaned back cautiously, eyeing the reaction *Remember your lessons James* he replied, his gaze flicking to the young man's hands.

James flushed and forced himself to relax, the glow fading "Sorry Master" he muttered, settling for putting his arms around Cill's neck instead. She leaned into him soothingly.

Marre tapped a talon on the bench *I doubt it will be soon, he knows you are under strong protection and will be expecting him now, he will need to gather his strength and plan his attack*

James worked off some of his nervous energy by massaging Cill's neck, his mind's eye still full of oncoming calamity. "How big is he Master?" he asked finally "larger than Nokala?"

Marre shook his great head slowly *No, He achieved his position through brains, not brawn though he is still a serious physical threat. He is ignorant of what to expect other than a single dragoness and human, not knowing the extent of our involvement...* Marre broke off and suddenly seemed to look guilty *...Or that of the clanmasters*

James frowned "What do you mean?" he asked, suddenly suspicious.

Marre sighed *We have not been entirely honest with you James* he muttered *We had hoped to ease you into this, but instead it has been forced upon us by circumstance*

Both Cill and James were frowning now "Go on"

Marre started pacing slowly up and down the length of the workroom

*The Clanmaster has been seeking a human envoy for many years now, one who could bridge the gap between human and dragon and forge a lasting peace that would end our dependence on hiding and stealing. We observed a few potential recruits but they always panicked and fled once we revealed ourselves to them* He waggled his paw dismissively.

*Then all of a sudden, you appeared, bonded to a dragoness, open minded and young to boot - it was the answer to our prayers and we set into motion a plan that has been waiting for centuries*

James grinned uncertainly and worked on Cill's shoulder muscles slowly, feeling her melt under him.

*The Clanmaster was a little upset that you obtained mana,* Marre coughed nervously *Well, frothing with rage would be closer. That was never intended or anticipated, nor was actually taking a dragoness as a mate. Still, we persevered as your education progressed*

Marre paused in his circular travels *There were a few detractors in the council, some are still vocal and claim you as a threat but we are still going to carry on. If Divitchka manages to raise dissent however this is all threatened. He will attack you and Cill - and if he knows his daughter and her new mate are also present they will also be at great risk. I would not like to estimate his anger but I would think he is close to uncontrollable rage.*

Cill blinked and clutched James close suddenly *He shall not succeed* she hissed angrily.

Marre nodded *He shall not, but he will certainly try and the one who knows him best is in sanctuary at your fathers' lair. You shall talk to her, learn about his habits and weaknesses and Nokala will start your training* he finished, turning to James.

*We have others out searching for him, but he is a canny wyrm and knows us well. It is unlikely they shall locate him*

Marre held out a paw and indicated the travel ring *Nokala is expecting you both, I wouldn't keep him waiting*

Cill and James nodded, heading to the ring and Nokala's lair.

* * *

Duncan took in the sight of the pool with delight, how had he not heard of it before? It was close enough to the keep yet no one seemed to know of it. He made a mental note to stay quiet about it too. The place seemed to have a peaceful aura to it. The water was clean and strangely soft to the touch, sliding through the fingers like silk.

He swiftly shed his outer clothing and waded in carefully.

Katreen had briefly disappeared but assured him she would return so he stepped cautiously into the cool embrace of the lake, toes feeling the way in case of poor footing or unexpected eels.

Floating in the lake he remembered a snatch of conversation he'd had with James and Cill- hadn't she said she lived by a lake? No wonder the place felt special.

He closed his eyes and bobbed about on the surface, the sun - having chased the clouds away, filtered warm and red through his eyelids the occasional sparkle reflecting from the lakes surface.

Katreen carefully circled the lake, while she trusted some fairies she didn't want any tales being spread by loose lips, she knew Jasmina wouldn't say anything but there were certainly other nosy fairies. She completed the circuit satisfied there were none of the sidhe present and taking a deep breath to fortify herself, slid slowly into the water.

Ordinary domestic felines might shun water but big cats embrace it and she felt no alarm as she swam easily towards the recumbent Duncan.

"I think you have learnt a lot since the noble one has taken up residence at your keep" she murmured to him, letting her forepaws brush his back slowly, cautiously at first as if she was unsure how the gesture would be received. The scaled palms surprisingly gentle in their touch.

Duncan sighed in pleasure at the caress "I think we all have" he murmured in reply, slowly sweeping his hand through the water until it encountered her side and stroked gently. "Those two surprise me every time we talk"

Emboldened by his acceptance of her stroking Katreen moved a little closer, rolling to one side so he was able to reach her more easily.

"Does it surprise you that they are in love even though they are so different?" she trilled, her caresses moving down his back as they floated together.

Duncan chuckled "Several weeks ago I would have said yes... but after seeing them and how happy they are together - I realize now that they were meant for one another. It doesn't matter that she is a dragon" His fingers teased through her fur and slid up to her wings.

Katreen swallowed nervously "Does it matter that I am a gryphon?" she husked softly, her beak nudging his ear.

Duncan's eyes widened and his heart stuttered in his chest, turning he met her steady gaze "No" he murmured back "It doesn't" He felt out of his depth but the words were out now. "I feel..." he began.

"Hush" murmured Katreen, "It doesn't matter to me either" her paws slid around his neck and pulled him close as his arms closed around her waist.

"I felt it from the moment we met" mumbled Duncan as he gazed at her, his emotions spilling over, "When we touched..."

Katreen nodded slowly, leaning forward to lick at his neck, careful not to graze him with her beak "I know - I felt it too." She murmured "I knew there was something special about you and that there should be more between us"

Duncan nuzzled at her soft feathered neck "What happens now?" he asked softly, feeling hot even though the water was cool and soothing.

Katreen leaned back with a mischievous grin playing round her beak "We do what a gryphon hunting couple do to celebrate a successful hunt" she cooed "If you would like to, that is"

Duncan grinned uncertainly but didn't pull away "I would like that" he murmured "What should I do?"

Katreen tugged him gently towards the bank, sliding catlike onto the edge, water draining from her sleek fur easily as she turned to look at him.

"Well, first we groom each other..." she trilled, lying on her side and stretching out languidly, spreading a wing to one side invitingly.

Nervously, Duncan moved close to her, his hands sliding slowly up and down her damp belly, stripping the excess water from her dark fur, the thick fell beneath still dry as his fingers slid through it.

"Hunting couples have to trust one another fully" murred Katreen as she moved against his hands, her own paws slipping to his sides, teasing the skin lightly.

Duncan nodded slowly, his senses full as he continued exploring her body, fingers reaching the point where fur became feathers at her neck. The subtle textures shifting against his hands, delicately stroking along the soft grey down that shifted to midnight tufts as it fluffed out.

He felt the delicate touch of her talons as she sought to explore him without harm, the touch arousing him at the same time, nervousness preventing him from sliding his fingers lower until she surprised him, tugging his soaked drawers down and away, exposing his manhood to her exploring paws and allowing her to feel his arousal.

Katreen had somewhat of a shock as she felt the size of the humans' maleness, He was certainly much larger than any male gryphon she knew. Jasmina obviously hadn't exaggerated about it and she felt a shiver of anticipation as she rolled him over onto his back, grinning down at him.

"Gryphon hunting couples are usually mated partners too" she growled softly, straddling his belly, manhood bumping against her tail as she rocked slowly back and forth, her paws rubbing his chest, ruffling the thick hair as she teased him.

Duncan's back arched at the sensations, feeling the heat against his shaft as he reached up to stroke her belly, feeling the small nipples in rows down each side and lightly thumbing them until they swelled under his caress.

"I would hope we are a good hunting couple then" he murmured, throwing caution to the winds as he grasped her feline rump, pulling her down so his shaft bumped against the soft, damp lips of her sex, making her gasp as she rocked against him.

Katreen met his gaze as she positioned herself over him, reaching down a paw to guide him inside, sinking down slowly and savoring each inch as it spread her wider. Growling softly she held herself steady, waiting until he was ready, the large shaft pushing into her, thrilling her as no male gryphon had ever done. Unable to hold back she let out a shrill cry of pleasure and undulated against him, Duncan matching her movements as she worked him deeper until they had set up a steady rhythm.

Spreading her wings widely Katreen rocked and worked her rump, hindpaws digging into the earth and holding her steady as Duncan's hands moved to her sides, meeting her thrusts with eager movements of his own the air filled with an odd combination of growls, moans and bird-like cries.

She knew she would not be able to hold back much longer and Duncan was also reaching his peak, the long abstinence forced on him both by his position and devotion to his late wife leaving him few outlets for passion. He felt her tighten about him deliciously as her paws grasped his chest, inner muscles suddenly shuddering as she gave a curious series of short cries, their loin's suddenly growing damper as he responded with his own climax, seed jetting within her in long powerful surges as they celebrated their newfound partnership.

Unseen by either of the two gasping lovers, Flora stood in the rushes nearby and snickered quietly.

* * *

Tomako held the sword blank in the glowing coals and watched carefully. He had strict instructions as to what to look for and how to tell if the steel was of good quality and evenly heated, admittedly having heat-sensitive vision made it a lot easier to spot the shifting cold spots in the metal.

Finally satisfied, he pulled the blank from the coals, laid it on the anvil and raised the hammer in anticipation.

"Tomako?" Caroline's voice came from behind him as the hammer began its downward swing, distracted at the critical moment it swerved to one side and struck off-center, catapulting the blank out of the tongs it was held in - off the anvil and up into the roof where it stuck between the firebricks smoking and vibrating as Tomako danced around clutching his aching hand trying not to scream in pain.

"Rrrrrr - why did you do that?" he finally growled at her, tears in his eyes as he scrunched his face up, flexing his numbed fingers and counting them twice to make sure they were all still there.

Ronald was trying hard not to grin, knowing that if so much as a muscle twitched in his face he would pay for it later.

"S'cuse me" he mumbled and ran out to find somewhere he could laugh in private.

Caroline glared at him as he tried to massage some feeling back into his fingers "I don't know about blacksmithing, it's all just hitting lumps of metal to me and I needed to talk to you"

Tomako managed to pry the smoking metal bar from the roof and replace it in the coals before sitting down on the anvil and facing her "There are just some things you don't do" he muttered. "If you wanted to hurt me some more you could have just used a knife, it would have been easier"

Caroline flushed before regaining some of her composure "It occurred to me..." she began quietly "...that I never thanked you for saving my life"

"Twice" said Tomako, holding up two fingers and waggling them at her, relieved he could still feel them and yet feeling somewhat disgruntled.

"Yes" Caroline nodded "and I apologize for treating you so badly but I did not know what had happened" She looked round for somewhere comfortable to sit but settled for the smooth edge of the water trough instead.

Tomako sighed "I know, I was stupid and rushed in thinking I could stop it all. I shall keep out of fights until I can control myself better"

Caroline looked awkward and kicked her feet against the side of the trough "My father will still demand some sort of restitution though" she said quietly, "I don't know how he will take the loss of his friends so"

Tomako nodded glumly "I shall explain it to him someday and hope he understands that I had little choice in the matter. It weighs heavily upon me though, I am sure they were good men. However, I am bound to serve here until I complete my apprenticeship"

Caroline tilted her head as she looked at him "I shall be remaining here until after James's wedding but I have no escort for the journey home and I seem to recall you swearing that you would protect me?"

Tomako blinked, sooty sweat suddenly beading on his forehead "I did say that, didn't I" he muttered, silently cursing his pain-addled brain for making a binding oath so carelessly. He thought rapidly "How long will it take for us to reach your home?"

Caroline smiled "About six days if we go straight there"

Tomako surreptitiously counted on his fingers as he stuck them behind his back... two more days before his first shift back into dragon form, it would be risky yet surely he could shift safely at night out in the countryside.

"You wish to take your wagon?" he asked, knowing that dragging the heavy wooden boudoir behind the team would slow them considerably.

"Of course - I need somewhere to sleep" she replied, not explaining - and so it seemed - not caring where he would be sleeping.

"Of course" he muttered, feeling he was being set up. "I shall have to ask permission from Lord Duncan and Master Desmond to accompany you" he added "I do not know if he will be in the mood to give it though"

* * *

Katreen's paws rested on Duncan's shoulders as she writhed on her back, wings spread amidst the crushed grass and her loins aflame as they mated again.

Squalling softly at the sensations she arched her back, taking the human as deep as possible as she climaxed around him once more, never had she felt so fulfilled with a mating.

She groaned aloud, realizing that she did not care what the others would think and wanting more of this, her hind legs locking behind the human's rump, holding him inside her as he shuddered through his own release, groaning her name as he filled her to overflowing.

The couple lay panting next to the pool, both pleasantly sticky and possessed of the knowledge that things were going to be different for each of them for now on.

Katreen nibbled on Duncan's earlobe teasingly, making him grin and run his fingers down her furred chest. "Mmm I think we make a good couple" she husked, her tail flicking against his loins.

"So do I" murmured Duncan in reply, the encounter had untied a knot in his belly somewhere and he felt more at peace now than for many years previous. He also realized that sometime during the frenzied mating he had finally laid his wife's memory to rest.

Oddly enough he felt no guilt, his experiences with James and Cill having opened his mind sufficiently to allow that coupling between humans and non-humans wasn't as bad as the church made out. He chuckled as he thought of what Father Champlain would say when he told him.

Katreen heard her new mate chuckle and cocked her head in question "What is amusing?" she asked.

"I was just thinking" he replied seriously "are you going to get into trouble for this? I know I will"

Katreen clucked in amusement "Well, my brother would take a dim view - I know he would have wanted another gryphon as my mate"

Duncan wrapped his arms around her and licked her beak, "I'm sure he will listen to reason" he said matter-of-factly "I'm not letting you get away"

Katreen purred in her throat "Well, he is the leader of the pack, but he does not need to know about my personal life"

Duncan felt a brief shiver of apprehension run down his spine. He had just copulated with the sister of the leader of a pack of gryphons - one of the most dangerous forest predators around. Following right behind that thought he also felt a surge of empathy for James as he realized that in a similar way his life had changed forever.

After cleaning each other off in the warm water the newly mated couple gathered the boar up in its sling and made their way towards the gryphon rookery.

* * *

Cill had moved off to talk with Nakkour following her arrival at her parents lair while Nokala pulled James away to another cavern to begin teaching him the basic of fighting dragons.

"You can't be serious" said James as he looked up at Nokala, trying not to hurt his neck as he did so. "I can't reach up there!"

Nokala chuckled and tapped his breastbone with a huge talon *You will have to*

He rumbled, indicating a small circle to the right of his chest *A dragons heart is well protected and not easy to hit with a lance or spear and unlike a dragon, you lack other means of reaching it*

James nodded and looked at the spear he had been given on arrival, it had a scorched and beaten look to it and he shuddered to think of what had happened to its original wielder.

"But even if it was twice as long, I'd never be able to get it up there" he said somewhat sullenly, feeling he was being mocked.

*A normal human would not* rumbled the dragon *However we have determined you are no longer normal, remember the mana and how to control it*

James looked at the spear once more, an idea forming in his head "You mean use the mana to send the spear where I want it - like the broom?"

Nodding slowly the great dragon indicated the far wall *Let your mana infuse the spear, enfold it with the power until you feel it can hold no more*

James extended his arm and willed his mana down his arm, the warmth now feeling familiar to him as the spear took on the yellowish glow from the energy trickled into it.

*Very good,* murmured Nokala as the glow grew more pronounced and James began to sweat *Now, tell the spear where you wish to send it and throw hard*

The spear was vibrating with energy as James lifted it and aimed at the far wall, spying a rock formation protruding from it, he decided that would be the target and with all his strength hurled the glowing needle as hard as he could towards it.

Nokala had wisely taken cover as the spear streaked into the wall, the rock exploding noisily as its passage pulverized it, the resulting noise echoing round the chamber like the residue of a thunderclap.

James stood stunned for a moment as the dust settled, he strained to see - expecting to see the spear shattered into splinters on the ground but there was no sign of it.

Taking a deep breath he walked up to the wall and looked closely, the rocks he had chosen were certainly gone, as was the spear. Yet there were no wooden splinters or bits of metal at all. Reaching up, his questing fingers found a hole, about an inch around and circular and most importantly, still hot to the touch.

Awed, he turned and walked back to Nokala, feeling emotions that raced between fear and jubilation, if the other novices saw him do that it would be called witchcraft or the devils work and he would once again be suspect of demonic powers. He realized however that now he at least had the beginnings of a defense against Divitchka.

Swallowing hard he looked up at the great dragon who was trying hard not to smirk.

"I think I've lost your spear" he managed to say.

*That's alright* Nokala replied *I've got plenty more*

Cill definitely felt uncomfortable around Nakkouralamina, She held herself somewhat responsible for her situation and Shalla's too. If she had not encouraged the young dragoness to remain then all these problems might have been avoided.

Nakkour was also in two minds, in front of her was the source of her daughter's delinquency and rebellion, not to mention her son's disgrace yet she could not bring herself to be seriously angry.

Shalla was happy with her new mate and Tomako had learnt a valuable lesson, been blooded and been brought to heel by no less than the clanmaster himself.

She herself had found the courage to leave her abusive mate and seek sanctuary with a powerful independent couple - something she still feared somewhat as her keen nose could tell that Carlina had recently been in season and would be laying in a few months.

Cill fidgeted awkwardly as she looked Nakkour over, where to start?

"Shalla is settling in well" she said quietly "Have you met her mate yet?"

Nakkour's muzzle twitched, betraying the sneer forming before it came under her control. "No" she murmured, "I have not met the - human"

"His name is Tommy, and he loves her very much" Cill continued slowly, trying to determine the others disposition. "You must have felt them bond"

Nakkour nodded slowly, recalling the deep satisfaction and joy her daughter had felt at the mating and her expression softened somewhat.

"I did," she admitted "and I am happy for her, despite the circumstances. Though I am at a loss as to where she found a human"

Cill fought to keep a grin off her muzzle "She tricked Marre's apprentice Moona into telling her where we were. She wanted to see what humans were like and on the night of our bonding ceremony, flew off to the keep and kidnapped him"

Nakkour blinked, her daughter kidnapping a human? - Impossible.

"She meant to bring him back before you returned that night but you returned early and so she and Tomako had to smuggle him out later"

Cill told the tale as Shalla had explained it, telling of Tommy's attentions and courting before her arriving at the lair. Even down to the details of having James explain to Tommy how to pleasure her properly and all the while Nakkour's eyes grew wider in amazement.

How had she missed the signs? Then she realized that she hadn't, but had put them down to other reasons. She also realized that she was enthralled at just what the tiny human had gone through to claim her daughter. Perhaps she was overreacting a little after all.

There was still the matter of actually meeting the impudent monkey though. He would learn to respect her and the gods help him if he hurt Shalla.

Nokala kept James practicing for several hours, making him hover the spears in midair, holding two or three up at once and getting his aim correct as well as showing him the areas of a dragon that were weaker, wing joints and knees as well as unprotected areas that were not so obvious.

James kept up the practice until his glow began to falter and he waved to Nokala, his mana at low ebb as he sank onto the sandy floor of the cavern.

Grunting in satisfaction Nokala joined him, lowering his huge bulk to the ground.

*Has Marre given you any instruction on sharing mana and controlling the flow?*

James shook his head remembering what had happened when he had healed Tomako. He explained what had happened to an interested Nokala, who nodded slowly *Your hand stuck to him because you surrendered your strength - willingly of course in that case - but it can be dangerous if you do so unwillingly*

James gulped as the great dragon continued *We can give mana or take it - if you are conscious enough to control the flow* he extended an enormous talon *Touch it*

James reached out a hesitant hand, clasping the tip of the talon.

Looking up at the Dragon he wondered where this was going. *Hold on* rumbled Nokala as he sent a small portion of his own massive store of mana down his arm.

James felt a tremendous heat infuse his arm and travel down his body, the glow obvious to his vision as his strength returned.

Halting the flow when he saw the human was at full strength, Nokala chuckled *Only give another your mana when there is no alternative* he warned *If you give too much, you may never recover it*

Awed, James nodded, looking at his glowing fingers.

*You have a great deal of power James* murmured Nokala *I dare say that if you and Cill joined mana during a battle there would be nothing that could stand in your way*

James grinned up at the huge dragon, "I hope that won't happen too often, I just want us to have some time to enjoy our lives together"

Nokala gave a rumbling laugh *You have just begun your training but let us hope that you will be able to swat Divitchka like a fly when he strikes and that I am there to see it*

James laughed aloud at this image and followed Nokala back into the main cavern.

* * *

Duncan steeled himself as they approached the gryphon rookery. He felt many beady suspicious eyes on him already and realized it was only thanks to Katreen's presence he was still alive.

Carrying the huge boar carcass had also made them an object of great curiosity, picking up a quiet aerial following in their approach. Katreen could hear the muffled whispers and was only too glad they were not close enough to smell her properly. She thought she had managed to wash off any incriminating scents but some may have lingered.

Meron gave a start as a runner whispered a warning of their approach in his ear "They what..?" he began before standing and making his way from the den. What had his impetuous sister done now?

Duncan swallowed nervously as watched the gathering gryphons above him, reminding him of circling ravens anticipating a battlefield.

"How do I address your brother?" he asked Katreen, the gryphoness outwardly calm as the crowd grew.

"He is the pack leader so I suppose that would be the correct form of address" she replied, waving to some of her friends as they soared above her.

"Was he chosen or born to be leader?" Duncan wondered, feeling a little less nervous as they talked.

"Oh no, he challenged the previous leader and killed him after a great fight. He earned the right to lead by virtue of strength and ability"

Duncan nodded slowly as he lugged the carcass higher onto his shoulder. It seemed that being seduced by a gryphoness was just as dangerous as being seduced by a dragoness.

Several indistinct shapes ran past him in the bushes and he almost twisted his neck trying to follow them "And does he like humans?"

Katreen said nothing for a moment then sighed "Not really - but it says much that he was willing to discuss this treaty"

Duncan swallowed nervously and was about to reply when with a sudden rustle of wings three large male gryphons landed before them. All were armed with rough wooden spears and appeared to Duncan's eyes to be rather annoyed.

He let his gaze rest on the largest one, poised in the middle and arguing in his own creeling tongue with Katreen who seemed to be pleading with him though he was unable to make sense of the racket.

Jet black feathers and the similar reddish shading to tawny tones told him that this had to be Katreen's brother and the two others likely an honor guard of some sort. They were eyeing him with considerable interest, their hawk-like gaze looking him over while the siblings discussed his future. Probably wondering what I taste like Duncan thought.

Eventually Katreen stamped her hindpaw and folded her arms determinedly with a final squawk while her brother looked infuriated. Giving a snort of resignation Meron turned his back on them and flew off with his guards.

Katreen huffed a bit before turning to Duncan "He wasn't too happy I decided to do this" she said apologetically "He said he cannot guarantee your safety should you enter the camp, there is a lot of hostility towards humans amongst the others"

Duncan frowned, "Did you tell him about us?" he murmured, flushing a little.

Katreen gave her curious half-smile again "Oh no, my brother would not like the fact we had mated at all"

Swallowing nervously Duncan agreed "Well then, I'm not going to be put off by his fears. Shall we go and present this boar to him and the pack?"

Katreen stroked his back with a paw "Yes, he is bound by our laws of hospitality if he accepts and your safety then becomes his responsibility - if he does not, then we are in trouble"

Duncan nodded - a test of his resolve then. He should have guessed it. Rattle the poor human and try to scare him off. If he had been scared away he had no doubt that the treaty would fail. Politics were the same everywhere.

They pushed past a few more thickets and stepped into the rookery, the large clearing surrounded by a flock of eerily quiet, yet fidgety gryphons as they waited to see what would happen next.

Duncan and Katreen walked confidently up to the den at the head of the clearing where Meron was waiting, his two guards on either side.

Duncan was rehearsing in his head what to say when he suddenly had a horrible thought, turning to Katreen he whispered "Can your brother understand me?"

Katreen nodded, "He knows some human and I can translate any words he does not know" she whispered back.

Lugging the carcass before the impassive gryphon Duncan cleared his throat and gave a bow towards him.

"Greetings Revered pack leader" he began, speaking slowly "I come before you today to offer friendship and peace between our kind. Please accept this offering and let us talk as brothers"

There was a rumble of disbelief as the boar's body was displayed to Meron. Clearly the human and Katreen made a formidable hunting pair. Meron's eyes narrowed as he looked over the carcass, pausing before making a decision that in the future was to cost him dearly.

"Be welcome and at peace" he grated, the human words coming awkwardly to his throat. The surrounding gryphons seemed to relax a little, talons retracting and crests lowered as their leader accepted the gift.

Inviting the pair into his den, Meron seated himself comfortably "You risk much human" he squawked roughly "why you do this?"

Duncan coughed- clearly subtlety wasn't Meron's strong point.

"Since the Dragoness has been with us" he began carefully "we have realized there are other races who share the forest with us and in the past, we have not respected one another"

Meron gave a derisive snort "Humans kill all - for fun" he stated flatly.

"Not all humans are like that" Duncan countered "ignorance and fear lead to mistakes, on both sides. Gryphons have doubtless killed humans as well. I think it should stop"

Meron nodded slowly in agreement, the two leaders sizing one another up. "You brave, not stupid" he stated "sister trusts you too. Say you good human"

Duncan flushed a little and Katreen's nares pinkened "I believe that we should help one another, trade and learn more" Duncan said finally "I trust your sister too, she has been very - uh - helpful in bringing our kinds closer. The fairies have envoys at the keep now and I would like to offer Katreen a place there too, if she so desires"

Meron's eyes narrowed slightly, something wasn't right but he couldn't put a talon on it. Why was Katreen so quiet? In fact she seemed to be holding her breath, his nares flared, trying to make sense of the mélange of scents around the room.

"Hostage?" he growled softly. Duncan shook his head "In no way, she would be free as she is now. We do not place restrictions on diplomats. You would be welcome at any time also."

Meron leant back, pondering a few moments before looking to his sister and asking her in his own language <Well, what do you say?>

Katreen clucked nervously and nodded <I believe it for the best, he and I respect one another and the humans will do as he says>

Meron's talons drummed on the floor as he considered <You wish to stay in the big stone den with this human?>

Katreen tilted her head <yes> she replied simply.

Meron sighed and looked at Duncan "I hold you responsible for her safety"

Unthinkingly Duncan reached out and covered Katreen's forepaw with his hand "I shall take great care of her, Pack Leader"

Meron gaped at the sight, rapidly suppressing the urge that rose in him at the audacity of the human - to touch his sister in front of him! But he was bound by the laws of hospitality and the human was unarmed. What was worse was that Katreen had not only accepted the contact but that her paw was also firmly wrapped with his.

Picking up the warning signals Katreen stood slowly and bowed towards Meron "You are a wise leader, my brother" she said in English for Duncan's benefit "you think for all gryphons and how they may prosper"

Meron rapidly recovered his self-control, his neck feathers slowly lowering as he eyed Katreen, his gaze briefly flicking to the joined hand and paw. Why was she allowing this? Had the human put some sort of spell on her? The suspicions disquieted him and he wondered what to do.

"I shall also be close to the noble one as well" Katreen added, seeing the emotions flicking across Meron's face. "This is the first time four races have had such an opportunity to be in proximity to one another and discuss the future"

Meron nodded slowly "We are under the noble ones protection as are the faer and humans"

A crafty look crossed his beak, a little probing might elicit more information "There is much wondering as to how a human is able to couple with the noble one" he chuckled "surely he would be crushed during mating?"

Katreen's nares flushed pinkly "I have not seen it for myself brother, but the humans are - most adaptable" she replied awkwardly, trying to avoid her gaze flicking across to the suddenly blushing Duncan.

Meron's eyes narrowed somewhat, he could not issue a challenge if he could not prove anything but he would watch closely however and the gods help this human if his sister were harmed.

Duncan rose slowly and bowed "Thank you for this audience Pack Leader" he said slowly "I know this will be an important time and communication is vital between us. I shall ensure your sister's safety as if it were my own"

Meron nodded slowly, standing he offered his own paw and Duncan carefully took it in his and the pair clasped in agreement.

Katreen threw her arms up in the air and let out a whoop of triumph that had the guards throwing aside the curtaining vines in alarm but they paused at the sight of their leader and the human grinning at one another over clasped hands. Slowly the news spread throughout the rookery that things were going to change.

* * *

Tomako was deep in thought following Caroline's departure from the smithy. He was full of doubt as to his abilities to protect her in his current state should they meet a similar ambush on the way home.

There was also the problem of her father. What would he demand from the killer of his guards? He had no idea of the human conventions in this situation and his frustration showed as he flattened the sword blank, the hammer blows making the smithy ring with each impact.

Desmond could only watch in awe as the metal grew thinner and thinner, yet he feared breaking the dragon's concentration to tell him when to fold it upon itself.

Gathering his courage he reached forward and placed a gentle hand on Tomako's forearm after a particularly powerful strike and was surprised when the dragon froze, his face crinkling as he fought to keep tears from erupting.

"Sorry Master" Tomako whispered as he saw the wreck the blank had become.

"What's the matter lad" murmured Desmond, pulling his pipe from his pocket and sitting on the edge of the table."Don't worry about that"

Tomako dropped the hammer and sat down on the edge of the trough, his face in his hands.

"I don't know what to do" he moaned "Things just keep getting worse - even if I do nothing"

Desmond sighed and lit his pipe with a stray coal "That's life boy, we all make mistakes and it seems you've made a big one. Tell me what really happened"

Tomako swallowed and slowly explained what had happened, missing nothing out this time as Desmond listened patiently, his face occasionally blanching at the blow-by-blow description of the fight. When he was done, Tomako sat slumped on the trough, feeling drained and despondent.

Desmond had absorbed the gist of the tale and felt the young dragon needed a differing viewpoint. "You say you only defended yourself?" he asked quietly

Tomako nodded vehemently "I only wanted to stop them - but they joined up and attacked me" he said with genuine surprise in his voice "Why would they do that?"

Desmond pointed towards the barracks "The lass there, you feel any urge to eat her?"

Tomako blinked, looking up incredulously at the man "Of course not, we don't eat humans - it would be wrong"

Desmond tilted his head "Well, our legends say dragons enjoyed eating humans - virgin females in particular"

Tomako sat still for a moment, "Not for many hundreds of years" he finally admitted, looking troubled "I don't know about the virgin bit though"

"Perhaps they taste better?" ventured Desmond cautiously.

"I wouldn't know!" snapped Tomako "I didn't eat those humans even after they cut me and hurt me"

"Well, her guards thought you would have harmed her, and I daresay the outlaws figured they couldn't take you on their own"

"That's not my fault!"

"So why do you act as if it is then?" asked Desmond shrewdly. "If you hadn't come along, there was a good chance she would be entertaining those outlaws right now as it sounds as if her guards were outnumbered and disadvantaged"

Tomako hmphed "All I wanted to do was to learn how to make armor and weapons" he waved a hand round the smithy. "I thought I'd finally found something I was good at and would be able to make a name for myself in"

Desmond blew a smoke ring at the ceiling "You shall be a fine smith once we work off the rough edges and give you experience. That is something you can't hurry though and life hands its own experiences out"

Tomako idly puffed a ring of his own "She wants me to escort her home - I do not know how to behave around humans for long periods and she cannot know I am a dragon as it would endanger James and Cill"

Desmond shrugged "Play dumb - she does not expect you to be a courtier or fine gentleman, keep your talk limited and follow the example of others. It's not that hard"

"And if I should have to fight as a human? I have no experience at that!" Tomako exclaimed, gesturing down his body "I'm pitifully weak and vulnerable like this"

Desmond tried to hide his smile "Er, lad - you are stronger than ten men and you think you are weak?"

Tomako wrapped his arms round himself and nodded, "You can't understand - it's like being a hatchling again"

Desmond grinned as a solution abruptly presented itself "Let me organize something" he said "I know just how to show you how strong you are and it will make you feel a lot better"

Tomako looked at him "Really?"

Desmond nodded "Trust me Lad, once you've done this, no-one will think you are weak and hopefully neither will you"

"Well, if you are sure" Tomako muttered as Desmond wandered out rubbing his hands together.

* * *

James and Cill arrived back at the Keep to find Jasmina and Pepper waiting for them in the house. Jasmina giggled a lot as she explained that Duncan and Katreen had both gone hunting and that there was a lot of activity around the rookery.

Cill couldn't help a smirk appearing on her muzzle at the news.

*I told you there was something going on there* she muttered to James.

She couldn't shake a brief sense of unease though, Lord Pepper had stayed back a bit and was staring at her, was that a look of disapproval on his face? It was hard to tell with fairies.

Lord Pepper was shaken, truesight had revealed the dragoness was indeed gravid, and there could be no doubt as to the sire. Everything appeared to be normal but the speed of the eggs growth and the size indicated something unusual was going on. There was also an edge to the aura around the egg. He had no doubt it would be healthy and yet...the pale blue tinge showed grace. Unheard of in a human and rare in dragons.

He would have to inform the King as soon as possible.

There was a loud shout from the gates, Duncan and Katreen had returned with an escort of gryphons and many of the guards were alarmed at the sight. It took some rapid explaining from Duncan to explain what was going on but soon there was an uneasy gathering of both races as they took stock of one another.

Cill and James made their way over to greet them and congratulate Duncan on a successful meeting.

Meron had come along to make sure his sister was safe and looked nervous in the unfamiliar surroundings. He was introduced to Cill, who had donned her human disguise once more.

"Noble one", he squawked, "I am proud to be part of this alliance and I hope you will deal fairly with all"

Cill flushed a little as she wasn't yet comfortable in her role as protector "I shall ensure that all shall be equal in this place" she said, her eyes resting on Katreen and Duncan as she said this, her sensitive nose picking up hints of something she had suspected would happen.

Turning to the pair she grinned at them. It was worth it to see Duncan blushing as he clasped the gryphoness's paw. *I hope you know what you are doing* she murmured to Katreen privately and stifled a giggle as she darted a glance at Duncan "And did you enjoy the hunt Lord Duncan?" she asked innocently.

Duncan gave an embarrassed cough "Oh yes, It was most memorable and I hope I shall have many more"

Cill nudged James in the ribs *Oooh they mated! I can smell it on them but I don't know if her brother's worked it out yet though* she muttered privately

James grinned at Duncan and was gratified to see a truly happy smile on his face in response. It seemed that the encounter had benefited the lord of the keep.

Meron seemed to be satisfied with the arrangements and with a final farewell wave he and his escort flew out from the keep in a spiral and headed back towards to the rookery leaving the unlikely grouping behind.

Duncan leaned over to James "Er, Kat will be staying in the Keep from now on. I have room in the tower for her"

"That sounds excellent Lord Tarrant" he exclaimed, boldly clapping the man on his back and pulling him to one side "I'm sure you'll do your best to keep her comfortable"

Duncan looked confused - did they know? How?

Meanwhile Katreen had moved off and was deep in conversation with Cill. James peered at her and thought he recognized some of the gestures she was showing Katreen.

He leant over and murmured to Duncan "I hope you have a lot of stamina"

Duncan blushed furiously and muttered "how did you know?"

James chuckled and pointed at Cill "She smelt it... and now she is giving your new mate there some pointers on humans"

Duncan gave a groan "If you can tell then so could her brother - We weren't sure if he could as Kat says he would be very upset and I don't want to ruin this treaty"

James shook his head "I don't know, but Cill's superb with scent, more so than a gryphon - I think your secret is safe, for now at least"

Duncan suddenly blinked "Mate?" he asked.

James nodded "Yes, I think you know that somehow though don't you. You are meant for one another"

Duncan sighed and nodded "Yes, I don't know how or why but I don't want to let her out of my sight now. I don't know how father Champlain will take this though - One cross-species marriage is probably enough for him"

James patted him on the arm "Now you know how it was for me" he gestured to Cill who was demonstrating a particularly odd action to Katreen "We are inseparable now, and at least you won't have to face fifty-odd dragons to claim her"

Duncan nodded "Just her brother - I don't know. There was one point back there in the rookery where I suddenly felt he really wanted to hurt me"

James nodded "Welcome to my life" he chuckled then turned serious.

"There's been some bad news too," and told him the latest about Divitchka.

Duncan nodded and they started to walk towards the tower "What are you going to do?"

James sighed as he fell into step beside Duncan "Learn to fight, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve but he is an elder whose knowledge of magic and fighting far outmatches mine"

Duncan frowned at this revelation "And Tommy? Is he going to have to rely on you too?"

James shook his head "Shalla's mother wants to meet him and Nokala too - He cant use magic but he's a more experienced fighter than me so Nokala will train him as well"

"It seems to be getting complex" muttered Duncan as they slowly walked up the steps to the tower "and don't forget you are getting married in a week"

James grinned "How could I forget?" he chuckled as Martin coughed politely, holding the door open for them and waving a piece of parchment.

"Excuse me Sir, but the trial for the outlaws is tomorrow morning and I assume you will want the witnesses present?"

Duncan sighed and took the parchment, "This could be tricky" he muttered "You can guarantee they will rant about dragons and you using sorcery on them"

James grunted in agreement "Caroline didn't see Tomako in dragon form but it could be awkward. I believe Joe and I would be sufficient, as would Tomako in the latter case"

There was a brief pause as they considered this and taking advantage of the interlude Mastersmith Desmond tapped at the door, leaning in to whisper something rapidly to Duncan.

Duncan looked at the smith and chuckled, "Well, if you think it will help, you have my permission - it can be part of the entertainment following the wedding"

Desmond grinned and nodded "Thank you Sir, I think it's just what he needs - and it'll give the others something to aim for as well"

James was about to ask what was going on when there was a rustle of wings at the window and Katreen appeared, looking a little flustered at the crowd.

Duncan stepped forward to help her off the ledge and into the room "Hello Kat, I trust your conversation with Cill was entertaining?" he asked, trying not to grin.

Katreen nodded rapidly, "Oh yes, many interesting new things!" she exclaimed, not taking her eyes off him, the intensity of her gaze a little unnerving.

James decided that discretion was required so he gave a bow "I can see you both have much to discuss and so I shall take my leave" he said, heading towards the door and hoping Martin would take the hint.

"Oh yes, thank you James, Would you thank Cill for me?" James grinned and nodded before heading back down the stairs.

Martin suddenly felt awkward, there was something going on and he was confused. Bowing awkwardly he headed for the door "I shall go and do my rounds then Milord, I am sure you shall ring for me if you need me"

"I surely will Martin" Duncan said, closing the door firmly behind the bewildered seneschal and waiting till he could hear footsteps receding down the stone steps.

Turning to Katreen he held his arms out and she came forward into his embrace eagerly, nuzzling his neck softly she felt that she was in the right place at the right time and all would be well.

To be continued...