Secrets: Experimental Heart, #3

My body ached from the torture I had endured. Two soldiers dragged me back to my cell, each holding me by an arm, and dropped me every so often to remind me how powerless I was. I didn’t utter a sound when they tossed me on the stone floor of the holding cell. I just waited for them to leave before I struggled to pull myself to my feet and drag myself to my corner.

I didn’t acknowledge anyone as I curled up. I didn’t deserve the sympathy they’d try to give. The only thing I deserved was their hatred for what I had done. So I closed my eyes and remembered the memory the soldiers had interrupted. I’d remember, even though I knew other memories would also follow.

Chapter One

Dead leaves crunched under the hooves of my mount as we traveled through the dense forest. Birds chirped their late afternoon songs and insects chirred. A light breeze rustled the leaves in the canopy, and a brook babbled in the distance. I gazed around, tucking loose strands of my violet hair behind my ear, and inhaled the petrichor odor still clinging to the air from the remnants of a rainstorm earlier this morning. I had no idea where I was, but Tla’lli had assured me this black elk knew the way, so I trusted her words and this creature to bring me to my destination.

The elk halted suddenly and exhaled. Glancing around, I slid off the giant elk’s back and removed the bridle and reins from the elk’s face. Giving him a quick scratch on the nose, I stuffed the tack into a small bag sewn into the cloth saddle. The elk huffed at me before heading back the way we had come.

Now alone, I had no real idea where I was. Tla’lli assured me the elk would bring me to the edge of their territory, but that didn’t help me get back to the campsite if I was lost. Inhaling deeply, I caught the faint scent of Raikidan. Breathing in again, I assessed the odor to be a few days old, and not far from my current location. Making sure my bag was secure on my back, I headed out.

We had traveled nearby when we had been searching for the burial site. If I head north from here, I should end up at the campsite. It was strange traveling back alone, but it was for the best. The moment I had woken up, I spent little time waiting. I had eaten with my men, gave last-minute orders, and headed out, all before Raikidan had woken up. I didn’t need him or his little games around. I had real lives on the line and real problems to deal with. Raikidan could take his boredom and waste someone else’s time.

I halted when a large shadow blocked out the sun briefly. I looked up but saw nothing. Shrugging it off, I continued on until the shadow appeared again, but this time it lasted longer. I stopped walking, but didn’t look up even when the shadow left. Instead, I listened. Wing flaps. Large ones that could support the size of the shadow I saw.

When the shadow appeared for a third time, I glanced up and was taken by surprise by the sight of a black dragon descending from the sky. What would a black dragon want with me?

The dragon’s head turned, revealing a red stripe running down the center of his head and back. It can’t be… Still several feet above me, the Dragon shifted into a nu-human shape. His muscles rippled under his tan skin upon impact of the ground. He ran a hand through his black and red hair before he peered at me with his piercing sapphire eyes.

Raikidan… I wasn’t sure what to think of him being here.

You left without me, he accused.

Leave him here and be on your way, the haunting malevolent voice in the back of my head said.

I turned on my heels and continued heading north. I told you to go home.

And I told you I wasn’t going anywhere. He followed me. You don’t understand—

I whirled around. I don’t understand? How the hell am I supposed to understand when you don’t tell me?

Raikidan looked down. It’s… it’s complicated…

I snorted. I’m sure it is.

Good, don’t believe his lies.

Raikidan grabbed me by the arm as I turned to continue on my way, forcing me to look him in the eye. I could see it there. How complicated it was for him, but that didn’t excuse him.

Don’t believe it. It’s an act.

Do you just not trust me? I asked.

"Do you not trust me?"

I grunted and turned to continue on. Let’s go, then.

Not that way.

My brow rose. This is the way we came. It leads us directly back to camp.

I found a faster way, he said. Trust me.

Don’t trust him.

I sighed and followed. You’d better not be pulling my leg. I’ll kill you while you sleep if you are.

Raikidan chuckled. Well then maybe I shouldn’t sleep for the next few days just in case.

Raikidan!

He laughed. I’m kidding. Just trust me on this one, okay?

I frowned. Fine.

My eyes cautiously took in our surroundings. The sun had sunk low in the sky and Raikidan stopped walking, though not by choice. We stood before the mouth a large cave. It sent an unsettling wave through me. I’d rather go a different way.

Scared? he said, a teasing smile on his stupidly handsome face.

I snorted. No. I just don’t see how a cave can have an exit.

It does, he insisted. I told you, I checked it out before I came to find you. Besides, we need to get to the higher ground above—or did you forget we had to scale a cliff to get down here? It took you forever to get down. I don’t want to think about how long it will take for you to climb up it.

I didn’t take forever, I muttered, pushing past him. I nearly free-fell the entire way down; only using the cliff face every once in a while to prevent myself from splatting on the ground. So, sorry I can’t sprout wings and fly, instead of taking a whole extra few seconds to jump down to reach the ground.

Raikidan sighed and muttered to himself in his own tongue before following me. Once inside, I lit a fire in my hand and led the way. His lack of protests on me leading confused me, but it wasn’t long into the walk before we came to a fork in the tunnel and everything became clear. He knew I was going to have to follow him in the end.

This way, he said as he chose to walk down the left tunnel.

Don’t follow, the voice in my head said. Don’t trust him.

He didn’t look back to make sure I followed, unfazed by the darkness that began to surround him as he walked out of the range of my firelight. Not wanting to be left behind and get lost trying to find my way out on my own, I sighed and caught up with him. Raikidan led me through the maze of tunnels without second guessing himself. It was as if he had come through here several times, to remember the way so well.

I held the fire up high to get a better look at the small tunnel. The walls were smooth, carved from years of flooding and rainwater rushing through them. This tunnel is familiar… but why? Whatever the reason, it intensified the unsettling sensation gnawing at my nerves.

Raikidan looked back at me. You okay?

I’m fine, I muttered.

You don’t look fine. Don’t tell me you’re scared.

I snorted. As if. I’m just getting a bad feeling about this weird cave.

Raikidan stopped walking and faced me. You act like you’ve been here before.

My eyes flicked around some more. It feels like it. I know, I know, it sounds stupid.

No, it doesn’t. I looked at him, but he was already continuing on. Sometimes we see things that remind us of events that have happened in the past, or dreams we’ve had. Maybe you have been here before. Or maybe you’re remembering tiny bits of something else that is making this place seem familiar.

I tilted my head, my forehead creasing. He continued on without me again, and at this point, if I let him out of my sight, I’d struggle to get out of here on my own.

I had hoped that weird feeling would go away as we walked, but it had only gotten worse. Eventually the feeling became so intense I stopped following Raikidan again.

Eira? Raikidan stopped and gazed back at me. I gazed around the tunnel with growing suspicion instead of responding. C’mon. I stared at him when he grabbed my hand. It’s only a little farther.

I tried to pull my arm from his. What is a little farther?

Raikidan smiled and pulled me forward. You’ll see.

See, he’s not to be trusted.

Raikidan, seriously. I tugged away from him again. What are you keeping from me?

His grip tightened and his intense blue eyes snared me. Trust me.

His gaze fuzzed up my head, and the words that came out of my mouth weren’t the ones I originally wanted to say. All right.

Fool.

Still holding my hand, he led me up the seemingly endless tunnel. I watched as the tunnel grew wider and less dark. I checked my flame to make sure I wasn’t accidentally putting more power into it, but found it to be same size. We were getting close to the exit, and that sudden realization made me uneasy again.

I noticed Raikidan glance back at me, but he didn’t utter a word. The fire in my hand began to die, and I was getting too worked up about the current situation to care. Moments later it died, plunging us into partial darkness. I tripped over small rocks and my own feet with my lack of dark-cave vision. I found myself moving closer to Raikidan, until I clung to him.

We’re almost there, Raikidan whispered.

You said that a while ago, I muttered.

He chuckled. That was no more than ten minutes ago, but I do mean it. Look ahead of us.

I did as asked and noticed a large light source. That’s when I realized I could make out his features and more of what was around me. Raikidan picked up his pace, forcing me to keep up, and pulled me into the light. I blinked violently to get my eyes to adjust better. Raikidan let go of my hand and his presence disappeared, confusing me, and then reappearing behind me, sending me into a slight panic.

I told you not to trust him!

Keep your eyes open and take a look, Raikidan whispered in my ear.

I swallowed hard but stepped closer to the mouth of the cave exit and peered out. My breath caught. The sun was setting casting red and orange rays across the land and sky, and had turned the clouds pink. It was like that dream I had, but even more beautiful. A sense of dread set in. That dream didn’t end well for me, and everything about this situation reminded me of that moment.

I turned to look at Raikidan to find him still hanging back where I had left him. I thought you said this was a short cut.

He chuckled and moved closer to me. It is. I watched him warily as he walked past me and leaned against the mouth of the cave. He pointed to the right. There’s a small path right here leading up the rest of the cliff.

But there’s more to coming here.

Raikidan grinned and peered out at the landscape. Beautiful isn’t it? I thought you’d like to see it at this time of day. I’m just glad it’s as nice as I thought it would be. You do like it, right?

I half smiled and started to relax. Yeah, I do. I didn’t feel as uncomfortable now. There was something different about this situation. It wasn’t like the dream.

Don’t be fooled.

Raikidan continued to grin. Good. We should stay here for the night. The sun won’t last much longer, and walking on the path in the dark wouldn’t be smart. This part of the cave is also drier, so it won’t be so uncomfortable to rest here.

Before I had a chance to think this option over, Raikidan shifted to his natural state and lay down close to the cave wall, giving me plenty of room. His space made me feel even more at ease. It was as if he knew exactly what had been bothering me all this time, and knew how to fix it.

Reaching into my bag, I pulled out a few large animal skins and laid them down on the ground for a soft, dry bed. Sitting down on my new bed, I reached into my pack once again and pulled out a blanket made from bear hide. Folding it into a makeshift pillow, I lay dawn and curled my body into myself.

Good night, Raikidan. Thank you for bringing me here. It was nice of you. And so you know, eventually you’re going to have to tell me why we’re really here.

Raikidan grunted and I smiled a little as I closed my eyes. They snapped open a moment later when I sensed his presence around me all of a sudden. I propped myself up to see him curled around me. He had done this last night when I insisted on sleeping outside, much to Tla’lli’s dismay. I didn’t understand the meaning, but I wanted to know.

Raikidan— I looked at him but his eyes were closed and his breath was slow as if he were already asleep.

I let out a breath. Guess I won’t find out…

I lay back down and closed my eyes. It didn’t matter. What mattered was getting rest so I wouldn’t be tired for our journey. We had a long way to go, and I had a feeling we’d be traveling much slower than before since there was no rush.

The air was cool and the leaves on the trees around me showed the change of the seasons. The stone bench I sat on was uncomfortable but I was too busy playing with my newly-cut hair to care much. The quiet gossiping whispers of the other soldiers in the courtyard crossed my ears. They spoke about my change, but I ignored them. I didn’t care what they thought. I was already different from them as it was, so why did it matter that I showed how much I didn’t fit in with them?

Metal footsteps headed my way, but I didn’t pay them any mind. I already knew who it was, and I knew I’d be reprimanded for my actions, so there was no point in acknowledging her. I continued to pay attention to my hair, even when she sat down next to me, but I didn’t refrain from passing her a glance.

Her long, aqua hair flowed over her shoulders and her bangs hid her eyes. Her armor shone and her crystal earring sparkled in the soft autumn sun.

The change looks nice on you, she complimented.

My back straightened, surprise rippling through me. You mean it?

She smiled and ran her fingers through my hair. Of course I do.

I gazed down at the ground. I thought you’d be disappointed in me.

She laughed. You’re my daughter. You could never disappoint me. It took great courage to do what you did, and for that I couldn’t be prouder.

Yeah, courage… My gaze drifted over the ground, and my hands reached for my side that still ached with pain.

How bad is it? my mother asked.

I sighed and pulled my hands back to my lap. Pretty bad. The worse punishment I’ll probably ever give myself.

Deep?

I nodded. And on both sides.

She frowned. I’m sorry.

I shook my head. Don’t be. It was my choice, and not one I made lightly.

Well at least you don’t pity yourself.

I snorted. This is me we’re talking about.

My mother laughed. True. Oh, I have something for you.

I cocked my head. She had something for me? I watched her as she rummaged through a bag tied to her belt and pulled out a plain white box. She handed it to me.

Well, a gift really, she corrected. Sorry for the plain box. It was all I could find.

A gift? It wasn’t every day she gave me something. In truth she rarely gave me anything, but that was because no one ever had anything to give.

Slowly, I opened the box. My eyes lit up at the sight inside. Mother, it’s beautiful.

You like it?

I pulled out the hair clip and held it up to the sun. Its green surface sparked brilliantly and brought a smile to my face.

I love it. I looked at her. But where did you get it?

She half-smiled and pulled a red hair clip out of the same pouch she had pulled my gift from. Well, in all honesty, I’ve had it for a while, but I misplaced it and only found it recently. She smiled. Perfect timing, really. It’s part of a matching set, from your father. He had them made for us. I didn’t like how mine looked with my long hair, so I never wore it, only carried it with me.

My gaze on the beautiful emerald hair clip darkened, and I put it back in the box. I don’t want it.

My mother stared at me with surprise when I handed it back to her. But, Eira—

I said I don’t want it! I don’t want anything from that liar.

She flinched from the harshness of my words. He’s not a liar, Eira. He really did care. He promised—

Stop it, mother! I let out a tight breath through my lips, my hands clenching. When are you going to stop believing in fairytales? When are you going to see the truth? He lied for the political gain of his clan, or whatever he calls it. He never cared, and never will. I want nothing to do with that.

My mother pushed the box back to me. Eira, he loved me, and I loved him. That was no lie, and what he promised is no lie either. One of these days you’ll understand. You’ll see some day.

I snorted. Love is a fairytale. The only thing I’ll see is death. It’s the fate of us all.

She shook her head. One of these days, Eira, you’ll be free and you’ll find someone who will prove to you that love is something to believe in.

I rolled my eyes. I’ll believe that when I can fly.

My mother chuckled. And he will teach you. That is how you’ll know it’s not a lie.

I sighed and walked off. You need to open your eyes, mother. No one can love a monster, not that there is any love in this world that can be given.

She exhaled and spoke quietly. You’re so wrong in so many ways, my dear. You’re so misguided. You will come to the realization of the truth I speak in time but… I fear I won’t be around to see that day…

I halted by the tree and clenched the box in my hand. Don’t say things like that, mom. I can’t bear the thought of losing you.

My mother exhaled. You said it yourself. All things die, Eira. It’s just a matter of when.

I sighed. I will wear it, but not because of him. You gave it to me, therefore it is from you and not him. I will wear this for you.

Thank you.

Chapter Two

My hair clip sparkled in the low morning light as I held it up in the air. The light summer breeze tousled my free hair, and I tried from time to time to tame it behind my ears.

Did you really care, Father, or am I right and it was all just political gain to save your clan? I leaned back on one hand. Why did it matter? Mom was dead and he was nowhere to be found. All his promises had been lies, and for all it was worth, he was dead to me.

The sound of crumbling stone caught my attention. I looked over at the ledge where the path led up, and watched Raikidan climb his way up.

You’re still here, he said.

I snickered. Don’t tell me you thought I left. I left my bag with you.

This is you we’re talking about, he said. You’d leave your bag here to make me think you were coming back so I’d wait all day for nothing.

All right, you win that one. I grinned. Though I have to admit I didn’t think of that, so thanks for the idea.

Raikidan sighed. Great.

I laughed and held up two recently-killed rabbits. Come and eat so we can head out. We have a long way to go, and I have a feeling we’re not going to have a friendly welcome-home party.

Raikidan nodded and sat down next to me, placing my bag between us. He took the rabbit and ripped into its fur to get to the flesh underneath. Pulling the other rabbit into my lap, I reached for my hair to pull it back, but Raikidan stopped eating just long enough to make me pause. I gave him a funny look.

Don’t put it up yet, he said. It looks nice down. I pulled away and went back to putting my hair up. Eira, did I say something wrong?

I shook my head. Don’t worry about it. It’s a personal thing. Just… don’t ask me to keep my hair down, please.

All right. He pointed to my rabbit. You might want to eat that, though, before I take it from you as my own.

You wouldn’t dare.

Raikidan chuckled. Eat it and you won’t have to find out.

I grunted and tore into the rabbit.

Hey, Eira? Raikidan asked.

Hmm? I asked through a mouthful of meat.

I asked you this once before, but you didn’t answer the question fully, or at least I don’t feel like you did, so I’m going to ask again. How did you get that hair clip?

I put the rabbit down. Yeah, I remember you asking that and you’re right, I didn’t answer it completely. I just told you it was a gift, which it was, but the full truth is that it was a gift from my mom.

He chuckled. So you really were special to someone.

I looked down at the rabbit in my hands and grunted. Yeah, I guess you’re right.

See, you’re not a monster.

I snorted. Don’t start with that. You’re not going to win.

Raikidan rolled his eyes. Fine, but answer me this, will you? You told me you guys didn’t have much to give each other, so how was she able to give you something so nice?

She had it made for me, I lied. Someone in the North owed her a favor so she had him get a jewelcrafter to make this and a matching ruby one. She gave this one to me and kept the ruby one for herself to carry around, instead of to wear, since she thought her hair was too long to have it look good in her hair.

Why didn’t she just cut her hair? he asked. You did tell me human hair grows all the time.

I shrugged. She liked having it long, not that it was overly long in the first place. It was shorter than mine, at least.

Raikidan’s eyebrow lifted. You had long hair once?

I laughed. What, can’t picture it?

No.

Do you remember that picture of me and her that I have? He nodded. Well that was taken a few weeks after I cut it. My hair used to flow past my waist.

Raikidan shook his head. I still can’t picture that.

I chuckled. Don’t try too hard. I hated having my hair so long. It was a pain putting up to keep it out of the way, so I’m sure I’ll never have it much longer than it is now.

It looks good at the length it is.

My gaze lowered to the rabbit again and I tried furiously to hide the small blush that had crept onto my face. Only my mother had ever told me my hair looked nice at this length. Everyone had always told me I should grow it back out. Even Rylan had the same opinion. I could never win anyone’s approval with anything I did.

Raikidan’s fingers grazed the tips of my hair. It might even look better a little shorter, but what do I know? Not like my opinion matters much. It’s your hair. You do what you want with it.

A teasing smirk slipped up my face. Except color it?

My jest caught Raikidan off-guard, but he recovered quickly and grunted. That dye just makes you smell awful, that’s all. If it didn’t stink, I wouldn’t care.

I shot him a dubious expression and voiced it slightly. For some reason, I couldn’t find it in me to believe him on that.

Raikidan focused on his meal. Let’s just finish eating so we can leave.

I eyed him for a few moments before digging back into my breakfast. He was hiding something, but whatever it was would have to wait until later. First we’d have to get back to camp and face the wrath of one temperamental lightning shaman.

I gulped. The scary, blue-haired elven woman before us stared Raikidan and me down with livid crystal-blue eyes. The sun peeking through the forest canopy, cast scattered light, shadowing her gaze, enhancing her silent anger.

Ryoko chewed on a fingernail and resisted twirling a strand of her brunette hair, as her golden eyes darted from Shva’sika to Raikidan and me. Rylan ran his fingers through his white hair in an effort to stay calm, but his blue and gold heterochromic eyes gave away his fear.

I can’t believe you two! Shva’sika exploded. Do you know how worried I was? The two of you leave in the middle of the night, leave no note explaining where you’re going or how long you’ll be gone, and I’m stuck here worried you’ve been captured…

Elarinya. I said, hoping her elven name would grab her attention better than her shaman one.

…or injured…

Elarinya.

…or maybe even gotten yourself into trouble—

Shva’sika! I shouted, giving up on my calm attempt.

She stared at me with slight shock. What?

Shut up so I can explain. Her eyes narrowed into a glare but she stayed quiet. I let out a breath, a small bit of relief washing over me. One, I’m sorry we upset you, but we didn’t know it would take so long. Two, you can blame this mostly on Raikidan since this was his idea, and I had no idea what we were doing, or where we were going, for that matter. It was also his fault there wasn’t a note, and he’s the one who made us leave in the middle of the night.

Raikidan’s eyes snapped to me. Hey!

I glared at him and he lowered his gaze. He knew it was his fault and he couldn’t deny it.

And three, you’re not going to be as mad when you hear about the alliance we made, I finished.

Shva’sika blinked. Alliance? What are you talking about?

I walked past her and sat down by the fire pit. Sit down and I’ll tell you.

Everyone gathered around the empty fire pit to listen to what I had to say. Shva’sika showed her impatience when I didn’t speak immediately. Well?

I chuckled. Raikidan and I had business in the South, and in the end came out with two more allies than anticipated to aid us in our rebellion.

Allies? Ryoko mused. You can’t be serious.

Ryoko’s right. Who in their right mind would want to help us? Rylan asked.

Anyone who is sick of living in fear of Zarda, I said.

Shva’sika gasped. It can’t be. You didn’t… I can’t believe you did!

Ryoko cocked her head to the side, her hair jostling. Danika, what are you talking about?

Before I left the West Tribe, I had heard rumors the other tribes were planning on breaking from the pact they had with Zarda, and were going to fight back, even if it killed them all, Shva’sika explained. Rumor said they had found someone in the home city who they were going to convince to allow them to help. I never thought it was true.

I nodded. It is. They came to me with hopes I would say yes immediately, but I turned them down. At the time, I figured the less involved they were, the safer it would be for them. But while we were gone, I found out that wasn’t the case, and chose to take the offer. But there was a catch to it. They already had an alliance, and if I was to ally with the South Tribe, I was also to ally with a red dragon clan as well.

Shva’sika’s eyes widened. You can’t be serious.

Quite.

I was expecting you to say the druid clan that lived close to the South Tribe. She laughed. A dragon clan was the last thing I thought you’d say.

I grunted. They were the last thing I expected to run into on our little adventure.

Rylan scratched his head. Can we back up a moment? Why would the shamans come to you in the city? Why not someone else?

Why not choose her? Shva’sika countered. She is a shaman, after all, and with her connection to the rebellion she was the best choice.

Rylan nodded. I can see that.

Shva’sika focused on me again. I’m impressed with what you’ve done, Laz, but you do know the other tribes will expect to be given that same chance, right?

I nodded. I know, and I’m fine with that. We need help. I won’t deny that, and any assistance will get us closer to our goal. I don’t know what the dragons can do for us, but the shamans will be a great asset.

Shva’sika smiled. This is a good day. I’ll forgive you for leaving without a word. Although, I’d like to know what you two were doing down there initially.

I glanced at Raikidan who was more occupied with the sky. I don’t know. Ask Raikidan. As far as I can tell, we never ended up making it to the destination.

Shva’sika looked at Raikidan expectantly, but he continued to scan the sky, completely oblivious of the current topic. She sighed in defeat.

Ryoko clapped her hands together and stood. I’m bored. Let’s go hiking.

I think it would be best to let Laz and Raikidan rest, Shva’sika said.

I shook my head and rose to my feet. I’m up for a walk.

Are you sure? The South Tribe is a long ways from here.

I nodded. Yeah, I’m fine. Besides, walking is good for you.

Ryoko squealed happily and ran off in a random direction. Chuckling, I followed, but turned around when Raikidan was the only one left not following.

C’mon. I grabbed him by the arm. What are you looking at anyway?

Raikidan shook his head. It’s nothing. Where are we going?

I snickered. Well if you were paying attention, you would know we’re going on a hike.

Shouldn’t we be resting?

I grinned. What, tired?

Raikidan snorted. I was thinking more about your energy level.

I rolled my eyes. Sure you were. But if you must know, I’m fine. I’m accustomed to long walks like that.

Right.

I let out an exasperated breath when he went back to gazing at the sky. Seriously, Raikidan, what is so interesting about the sky? There are no clouds, no birds, nothing. It’s just big and blue.

I thought I heard something, he said. But every time I go to look, nothing.

You’re going crazy, I muttered. Maybe you should stay behind and rest. You might get some of your sanity back.

Raikidan snorted. Even if I wanted to stay behind, I don’t think you’d let me.

I glanced down to find I still held a firm grip on him. I let go and put a little space between us. That was embarrassing.

C’mon, slow pokes! Ryoko yelled. We’re going to race to the top of this little waterfall!

Not much of a race if Laz just scales the thing, Rylan muttered. And don’t say she won’t, because you know she will.

Ryoko huffed and I laughed. Picking up my pace, I joined the three and gazed up at the small cliff face. It wasn’t at all impressive, but I knew it was because I had already seen bigger on my little journey with Raikidan.

Any rules? Raikidan asked.

No cheating, no cheating, and no cheating, Ryoko said. Oh, and no shapeshifting.

Raikidan muttered to himself as if he were hoping she’d forget that.

Define cheating, I said.

Um… She thought for a moment. …no killing?

Since that was a given, anything goes, right?

Um, yeah I guess, she mused.

Then I’ll see you ladies at the top, I challenged, taking off.

Hey, that’s cheating! Ryoko called.

You only said killing was. All is fair in love and war.

My eyes widened when a shadow blocked the sun over head. I looked up and yelped. Jumping to the ground, I nearly missed being crushed by a giant bolder.

Taking a nap, Laz? Ryoko teased as she jumped over the boulder. You’ll never win that way.

Cheater, I growled as I scrambled to my feet.

Ryoko laughed and continued on. I knew you’d dodge, so it’s not cheating.

Not yet at least, Rylan muttered.

Ryoko shot him a deadly glare and he fell back into place with Shva’sika.

Don’t tell me you’re afraid of her, she teased.

I value my life over a dumb race.

I rolled my eyes over his cowardliness and continued my race against Ryoko. She attempted to trip me, but I jumped. I tried to push her just enough to get her to falter and slow, but I also missed. Gazing at the cliff face, I grinned and scaled up to the next ledge, losing some ground in the process, but I knew I’d regain it back shortly.

Ryoko, thinking she would win this now with her small lead on me, picked up her pace. Not wanting her to get too confident, I matched her pace, but when a dark shadow flew over me, I slid to a screeching halt. My eyes widened by what I saw. Ryoko, stop!

Ryoko ignored my call, assuming it was a trick of some sort, but soon found herself attempting to slide to a halt when the massive red dragons flying above us tried to land right in front of her. Ryoko, lost her balance, and fell back on her butt, sliding a few more inches before she finally stopped moving.

Ryoko tipped her head back to stare up at the massive dragon with awe and curiosity, and then shifted her focus at me. Please tell me he’s a friend of yours and not here to eat me.

I wanted to laugh at her silly comment, but ended up snorting instead. I wouldn’t call him a friend, but yes, I know him.

I jumped down from my vantage point and strolled over to the two. I could hear Raikidan behind me growling quietly, and it made me wonder if he had known Zaith was around but didn’t tell me. It would explain his bizarre sky-watching earlier.

What do you want, Zaith? I asked him. Don’t tell me you need directions to the city.

Zaith didn’t shift to speak to me, much to my surprise, nor did he attempt to speak to me in his tongue. Instead, he lifted up his front claw, and my eyes widened with awe. Dangling from his only large, black claw was a gold, ruby-set necklace. Zaith moved his claws over me and let go of the piece of jewelry. I caught it and examined the item.

Ryoko moved from where she sat to look at it as well. Wow, that’s pretty.

I flicked to Zaith, skepticism clinging to me. Is this really for me?

Zaith exhaled and kept eye contact. Taking that as a yes, I looked back down at the magnificent necklace in my hands. But as I did, an unsettling sensation crept over me, and I knew it wasn’t because of Raikidan’s increasing aggression. Something didn’t feel right about this gift. Zaith finally made a noise, but it was so quick at first that I thought I’d imagined it. It wasn’t until Raikidan shifted and positioned himself over Ryoko and me that I knew for sure he really had done something.

The two dragons’ chests rumbled as they spoke with each other, and Ryoko moved behind me. My unease grew. I nudged her back and tried to move us away from the two dragons. I blinked when Zaith only moved a slight muscle in his jaw and the two took flight.

I watched the two dragon grapple mid-flight and snapped viciously at each other. Their airborne fight didn’t last long before Raikidan came crashing down to the ground. Ryoko and I jumped out of the way and scrambled to safety. Zaith quickly descended from the sky but Raikidan was ready for him, and he was thrown back into the woods, plowing over trees and other plant life in the process.

What in Lumaraeon is up with these two? Rylan shouted.

Hell if I know, I said.

It all started because of that stupid necklace, Ryoko muttered.

I looked down at the necklace. She’s right. It had started because of it. What did it mean for Zaith to give this to me? A political offering I could see and would have guessed, but Raikidan’s reaction indicated it wasn’t that cut and dry, which might explain the bad feeling I had. I sighed and rubbed my temples. Dragons were so confusing.

Laz, lookout! Rylan shouted.

Raikidan’s large body came flying at me. Reacting as quickly as possible, I dashed out of the way and climbed up the cliff face to get out of harm’s way, narrowly avoiding Raikidan’s long tail as it crashed into the rock bed. I watched Raikidan as he breathed heavily and went to see if he was all right, but Zaith moved between us and stared me down. I held his gaze and moved to my right but he followed, preventing me from seeing Raikidan’s condition, and moved his head closer to me in the process.

Narrowing my eyes, I stepped back to my original position and again Zaith followed. My lip curled. He was trying to corner me. I despised being cornered—hated feeling like a toy. Knowing I’d have to fake him out, my eyes flicked to one side and positioned myself as if I was going to move that way and just as I noticed Zaith flexed to follow, I changed direction and escaped.

Zaith growled, but I ignored him as I raced over to Raikidan. Touching his face, I looked him over. Hey, you okay?

Raikidan exhaled through his nose, showing that the only thing damaged was his pride, but I looked him over some more to make sure.

I noticed a gash above his eye. Let me clean this up. We don’t need you going blind.

Removing my arm sleeve, I dabbed the wound and soaked up as much blood as I could. Raikidan tilted his head, giving me better access to the wound, but he didn’t stay like that for long. Zaith snarled, and Raikidan perked up and replied with similar intensity. These two bull-headed dragons were really testing my patience. This nonsense stops now.

The others had already taken safety in the trees by the path heading back to camp, so the only thing I had to worry about was getting Zaith away and Raikidan out of here.

I rubbed Raikidan’s neck, feeling the texture of his hard scales. C’mon, Raikidan, let’s go. I don’t want to be around him anymore.

Raikidan’s focus drifted from Zaith and onto me. I held his gaze, and he responded by moving backward while keeping his head low, allowing me to continue to keep contact on his neck. We didn’t get far before Zaith spoke to him again, and this time I could tell what he was doing. Zaith was taunting him and it was working.

Raikidan snapped his gaze on Zaith and started to stalk toward him. This pissed me off. I was sick of these two meatheads going at it. With as much strength as I could muster, I jumped up to grab onto Raikidan’s horn, and yanked on him to get him to move back. Raikidan growled, but this time it wasn’t at Zaith. Ignoring his protest, I yanked on him again.

This time, instead of growling, Raikidan shifted to his nu-human form, forcing me to let go of his now-nonexistent horn. Let go, Eira.

Glaring at him, I grabbed him by the ear and pulled him away. His shifting ended up only making my job easier.

Ow. Eira, stop, that hurts. Ow! I ignored his protest and continued to pull him away. Please, Eira, stop.

I continued to ignore him. He didn’t fight hard beyond verbal protesting, as if this were all an act. He’d only tug on occasion to test if I would actually let him go.

Once we were out of sight of everyone, I released him. What the hell what that?

Raikidan rubbed his ear. I don’t know, you tell me. You’re the one doing the yanking.

I punched him in the chest. That’s not what I’m talking about and you know it.

Raikidan sighed and scratched his head. He stopped when his eyes landed on the necklace I was still holding. Before I could react, he snatched it from me and tossed it. Don’t go after that.

I waited for an explanation, but when he just held eye contact, I became annoyed. I hated not getting an answer to my questions. I especially didn’t like being told what to do, and I wasn’t going to listen. I retrieved the necklace.

Eira, Raikidan growled.

I whirled on him. Don’t tell me what to do! He flinched and stepped back. I stalked over to him. Unless you can back up your reason, don’t you ever attempt to tell me what to do. Do you understand?

Raikidan exhaled slowly. It has to do with that stupid legend we talked about before.

I stopped advancing and furrowed my brow in confusion. What? What legend?

With great speed, Raikidan slipped behind me and held the necklace up to my neck. Eira. A shiver ran up my spine when he spoke, and I didn’t like that. Eira, I can get you something nicer. Something better suited for you, and it won’t mean the same thing. Just don’t accept his proposal.

I froze. It can’t mean that.

Don’t become his mate, Eira.

I gulped. It does.

No! I snatched the necklace from him and threw it. Not human. Not dragon. Not a chance!

I stormed off in a random direction. I couldn’t believe this was happening. I couldn’t believe that dragon asked that of me. I did my best to shut out the idea, but I was too angry and flustered for much to happen in my favor.

I was so busy being angry, I didn’t notice we were being watched. And I barely noticed Raikidan mumble something in his tongue in a direction that wasn’t mine.

Chapter Three

The cold, refreshing water from the river rushed around me as I emerged. My hair flipped over me as I gasped for breath, dragging a stream of water with it. I waded through the water to the rock formation that rested under the waterfall, and climbed up next to Ryoko. I ran my fingers through my hair and massaged my scalp.

The warm wind of the summer afternoon rushed over my cool skin, sending shivers all over my body. Ryoko, being self-conscious and paranoid as ever, held her arms protectively over her chest. She scanned our surroundings as if she expected someone to be watching in the shadows of the trees.

I shook my head. Will you just relax, Ryoko? There’s no one around here except us and the boys, and they’re back at the campsite.

She continued to look around. Yeah, and the guys are the problem.

I sighed. Ryoko, we told them where we were going. They’d be stupid to come this way.

Shva’sika chuckled as she waded through the water over to us. Laz, I wouldn’t be scolding her if I were you. If they showed up you’d freak out.

But they won’t show up, I said. I’m not paranoid like Ryoko.

I’m not paranoid! Ryoko shrieked.

She’s right, Shva’sika sided. Just because you told them not to come this way doesn’t mean they won’t. It’s a large forest, and it’s pretty easy to end up somewhere you didn’t intend.

Ryoko whimpered and looked around.

I set livid eyes on the elf woman. Look at what you’ve done, Shva’sika! You’ve gone and made it worse with that comment.

Shva’sika shook her head. I don’t understand you two. Why are you so ashamed of your bodies?

I snorted. We’re not ashamed. Ryoko’s gazed lowered. I pinched my nose and let out an exasperated sigh. Ryoko…

Don’t talk to me with so much pity! she snapped. It’s not like you have anything to be ashamed of…

Shva’sika shook her head. What is this nonsense you’re babbling?

Ryoko blinked. Huh?

Shva’sika lifted Ryoko’s chin. You’re beautiful, Ryoko, and you shouldn’t be ashamed of how you look. There is nothing wrong with your figure. You both need to learn to love your bodies as they are and not hide them. The female body may be fragile, but it’s also powerful.

I snorted. Elves may find them powerful, but they’re utterly useless to humans.

Oh don’t be—

Laz is right, Ryoko interrupted. It may be okay with your race for women to be seductive, but for humans it just makes you a slut. The only thing a woman’s body is good for is to be something to look at, and to have a good time. Take it from me. No man cares that I have feelings. No man cares that I’m not completely useless. Sure, I’m not the smartest woman out there. Frankly, I’m spacey and quite dumb. But there is something going on in my head and I do have feelings, but it doesn’t matter. I’m just something to look and grab at.

Ryoko sighed and rested her cheek in her hand. Her gaze never left the flowing water that went down stream. Ryoko… Shva’sika mouthed me an apology. I shook my head and went back to washing my hair.

Ryoko had it rough. She could knock down buildings and do something that should be inhumanly impossible, but getting a lick of respect to save her life, outside the circle of our group, was difficult for her. Though, she did exaggerate a bit in her emotional fit, not that I could fault her. That kind of pain would skew anyone’s perspective at the best of times.

Chin up, Ryoko, Shva’sika said as she began washing her face. I bet there’s someone who doesn’t see you that way. Heck, I’m pretty sure I could easily find a nice elven man who would be genuinely interested in you.

Doubt it, Ryoko muttered without taking her gaze off the water. It’s been decades since someone saw me as worthwhile. Now, I’m just a hopeless romantic.

Shva’sika shook her head and went about shaving. I’ll build up your confidence, even if it kills me, dear.

I snickered. Careful, Ryo, she will.

Not going to happen. Ryoko then shuddered she noticed Shva’sika’s beauty routine. How can you stand doing that? Doesn’t it get annoying?

Shva’sika’s brow rose. What, shave? Well I do prefer to wax because it’s less time consuming, and I only have to do it once every few weeks, but I can’t exactly do that out here.

I chuckled. That’s right, you don’t know.

Know what?

We experiments don’t have to shave, Ryoko explained. At least not our legs, arms, or underarms.

Shva’sika’s cocked her head. That’s rather interesting. Why is that?

I shrugged. Like you said, shaving is time consuming. Even waxing takes time out of our day. And since we’re soldiers, we don’t have that kind of time to spend. But at the same time, women were still expected to live up to society’s standards, so it was decided that was something we wouldn’t have to deal with.

Ryoko nodded. Yeah, though it doesn’t mean our bodies aren’t completely hairless. Well not all of us. Some are. It’s kinda like a random grab bag as far as whether you are or aren’t.

Shva’sika giggled. I can see that.

Ryoko went to reply, but then stopped and grabbed Shva’sika by the face instead.

Shva’sika yipped in surprise. Ryoko, what are you doing?

You have a scar on your face. She lightly traced it with her finger. It was a tiny scar and appeared quite old. It ran from just above her upper lip down to her chin.

Yeah, I do… Shva’sika replied quietly before trying to finish her washing.

I didn’t know you had one there before, Ryoko said. It’s faded, but I know I would have seen it before.

My eyes narrowed. You wouldn’t have, since she hides it. Ryoko looked at me. Shva’sika avoided my gaze. Here she is, telling us to love how we look, when she can’t even do it herself. Hypocrite.

Shva’sika rested her hand on her scar, covering it. I know I’m a hypocrite and I’m sorry. I just can’t stand looking at it.

It doesn’t look bad, Ryoko said. If anything, it shows your personality.

Shva’sika shook her head. No, it makes my face ugly.

I pinched my nose. Now you’re sounding like Ryoko. Knock it off, Shva’sika.

You don’t understand. I gave her a stern stare, but she held her ground. You have scars on your body, yes, but not on your face. You don’t get the same looks when it’s a scar on the face.

Danika, it doesn’t make you look ugly, Ryoko insisted.

It may not make me ugly, but it doesn’t make me beautiful, either.

Ryoko sighed and flicked her gaze to me. She doesn’t listen well.

I thought for a moment and then snapped my fingers. Let’s try something. You can keep covering it while we’re out here, but once we get to the city, you can’t cover that scar for an entire week. If we’re wrong, you can cover it after, and if we’re right, you won’t want to cover it.

Shva’sika’s brow quirked up. And what’s in it for me?

Ryoko and I have to practice not being ashamed of our bodies, as you put it.

Laz! Ryoko hissed.

For the whole week? Shva’sika insisted on clarifying.

I nodded. The entire week.

Shva’sika grinned. I accept.

Ryoko groaned. Why did you have to drag me into this?

Because it’s the only way she’d accept, I said.

But you know I can’t do this! she argued. You both know I can’t do this.

You can and you will, I said. Shva’sika agreed to the terms, and therefore you have to, too…

I trailed off when I noticed movement in the trees. It hadn’t been the first time in the past few minutes, but I had thought I had only been seeing things. Now, I wasn’t so sure.

Ryoko turned to look as well. Did you see something?

I shook my head. Just a squirrel.

Ryoko shrugged and resumed washing up. I went to splash water over my legs when I noticed the movement again. This time I knew there was something over there. I hopped off my perch. I’ll be right back.

Don’t get lost, Shva’sika teased.

I snorted and left the water to grab my clothes. I muttered as it took me a while to pull my clothes over my wet body. I should have worn the armor. I wasn’t even sure what the reason was for me to be wearing regular clothes. Sighing with frustration, I barely managed to get my shorts buttoned before I was throwing on my long shirt and buttoning the three snaps, without worrying about anything underneath.

Crouching low, I snuck into the shadows of the trees and made my way around to the spot I was suspicious about. I ground my teeth when I reach the location and spotted the one thing I hadn’t wanted to see.

Rylan, we really shouldn’t be here, Raikidan hissed.

Rylan sighed. I know, I know, but—wait, where did Laz go?

Don’t say stuff like that, Raikidan muttered as he peered around the tree he hid behind. "Shit, where did she go?"

Murder them.

Standing up from my hiding spot and making as much noise as I could, I advanced toward them. Looking for someone?

The two men spun around, their eyes wide with fear, and fell out into the open, causing Ryoko to scream.

E–Eira… Raikidan managed.

L–Laz, it’s not as bad as you t–think, Rylan tried to defend.

It’s not bad? I bared my