The Knight of Her Dreams

chapter Fourteen



“It’s been months since I’ve wielded one of these,” murmured Dominick, holding up the sword he held. The silver blade gleamed against the sunlight, its gold hilt carved with the runes of dreamphasers. A fitting gift for his eighteenth birthday from his father.

It had been Discord who suggested they return to Barokka to pick up a few weapons, since many of the caverns of Chavernos were far from secure as life on the island was, some being deadly. Fortunately though, Lendric’s home didn’t sport any demons guarding the entrance.

At least none that they’d seen when last here.

“Let’s just hope you won’t need it,” replied Warp.

Like many of the caverns, this one sported the rough outlines of a trail, occasionally sprouting other passageways to tempt unknowing individuals with what was hidden beyond, issuing its own surprises in the dark.

The sound of Discord’s boot hitting a squishy substance alerted their attention instantly. “What the hell is this?” he growled.

“Look out! Acidic slime!” shouted a voice.

Knowing the deadly substance well, the other pair jumped back instantly with a gasp and a scream, while Discord tore his boot off, swearing. Dominick quickly cast an illumination spell, but as light was cast upon the boot, all could see it was dampened only by an ordinary puddle of water and a smidgen of mud.

“Just kidding!” snickered the same voice, soon echoed by the laughter of several others. Moments later, a barrage of multi-colored lights flooded the tunnel, causing the trio of humans to duck, while the lights flew over their heads to escape outside, vanishing towards the horizon.

Growling against their mocking laughter, Discord shook his fist after them. “Damnable fairies, if I ever get my hands on you, I’ll tear your blasted wings off!”

“And another useless human threat comes into play!” chuckled the initial fairy, floating by the entrance with folded arms. Although only about a foot high, the reddish-haired little man clearly wasn’t intimidated, grinning with amusement. “Been a long time, hasn’t it, Discord?”

“Xavier!” Discord growled.

“Ah, ye remember me. I’m touched.”

“I’ll do better than that, breaking every bone in your miserable hide, you pint-sized pixie!” he snarled, making a grab for him, though missing by inches.

The mischievous fairy laughed again. “Sorry, but I have better plans for the day. Maybe some other time… if ye can catch me.”

Discord made a second lunge for him, but the fairy disappeared in his hands, fairy dust springing up in his wake. As the frustrated man sneezed several times, Xavier’s echoing voice called out, “Better luck next time.” His laughter trailed after him.

Sensing Dominick and Warp’s amusement behind him, Discord whipped about to face them, but their smiles faded into nonchalant seriousness.

“Not one word,” he warned quietly, glaring at them once before storming down the corridor, threatening dire vengeance against the tiny pranksters.

When he was out of hearing distance, both his wife and son muffled their pent-up laughter before following him.

*****

Dominick kept up an illumination spell to aid them through the darkness.

With only minor creatures found within the caverns, which skittered away from them harmlessly, it was only the uphill incline of the long path that was tiring. When they finally reached the entrance to Lendric’s home, there were no lanterns, but there was a wooden door which had a luminous glow.

“It’s about bloody time,” said Discord, breathing hard as he reached towards it. Sparks flew from his hand as he pulled it back with a yell. “Blazes, that thing’s made of fire!”

A musical, condescending laugh echoed about them. “What did you expect of a dragon’s domain? A snow-laden entrance?” mocked the same voice, just before a tall fair-haired man in dark blue robes materialized. Before any could speak, he continued more seriously, “Do you have an appointment with the great dragon sorcerer?”

Discord’s eyes narrowed. “Great dragon sorcerer, hell! You tell Lendric, this is Discord Westbrooke, and I’ve brought my wife and son to meet with him.”

“I’ll let him know, and he’ll get back to you by the end of the week.”

“By the end of the week?” snarled Discord, his face reddening as he took a threatening step towards the somewhat lanky man who then wobbled back slightly. Obviously due to the rough footing of the cavern, the man would have insisted.

Glaring at Discord, he snapped, “You can attempt to beat my brains in, Mr. Macho, but don’t think you’ll break this door quite so easily! Only the right spell can open it.”

“Then you’d better use it now, or by Chaos, I’ll...”

Warp’s gentle touch on his shoulder drew his attention slowly. “Dear,” she whispered, “there are other ways to handle situations like this. Observe.” Flashing a sweet smile to the man, she gave a brief laugh. “You’ll have to pardon my husband,” she said aloud, leaning forward slightly. “Terrible temper when he’s angry, I’m afraid.”

“Yes,” said the man, casting a wary eye at Discord. “I can see that. But I have my orders, and the great dragon sorcerer doesn’t speak to just any riff-raff.”

“It’s a good thing my brother stayed home then,” Dominick laughed quietly, his pun lost on the bemused man.

“Fortunately,” continued Warp, recapturing his attention, “I happen to be a bit more reasonable. If you won’t open the door for us, then I’ll simply have to use another method. But don’t worry, I’ll put in a good word for you as a security guard.” Waving once, she vanished in a flash of lights.

“What?” sputtered the man. “B-but she can’t do that!”

“Too late,” Discord replied with a deep laugh, folding his arms. “Now that you have a spare moment, you might want to brush up your job resumé.”

“Or you might open the door, so we can find my mother before Lendric does,” suggested Dominick.

His blue eyes narrowing with irritated defeat, the man finally clenched his fists and growled. “Oh, very well! But he’s not going to like being disturbed by your little troop!”

Waving his hand at the door, the man recited an incantation that caused the glow to fade. Pushing the heavy door open, the man strode inside, glancing about for the missing Warp.

“All right, Mrs. Westbrooke, you’ve had your little game of hide-and-seek!” he snarled. “Come out right now, you deceitful demoness or I’ll...”

“You’ll keep a civil tongue in your head,” came a deeper voice, just before a curtain parted several feet away. “Please excuse him, my lady. He may spout venom like a viper, but he does have his good points.” Warp reappeared, the arm of a blond-haired elf around her shoulders.

Smiling amiably as his emerald eyes twinkled, the dragon sorcerer known as Lendric led his companion back to the awaiting pair. Though even older than Discord and Warp, he didn’t look it due to being a dragon, instead seeming to be a man in his prime. Upon reaching maturity, all dragons aged too slowly to be noticed for countless years, making five hundred years seem like five.

Dressed in a leather outfit considered a favorite among the elves, a forest green cape flowing behind him, one would hardly guess by his slender frame that a dragon’s heart beat within.

Magic—even on a world filled with it—was still wondrous to behold when capable of transforming a majestic dragon into a human or an elf. They could transform into other forms just as easily, but those were the norm.

Discord stepped forward instantly, his expression grim. “I suppose we should be honored that his royal imperial majesty has a few moments to spare for the meek and humble,” he murmured, with a feigned bow.

The gateway man jabbed his shoulder. “Show respect for his greatness, beast!”

Discord’s eyes flashed warningly, just before he reached forward to pick the man up with one hand, his grip tightening about the man’s throat.

“Beast, you were saying?” he hissed, his dark eyes beginning to swirl with the magic he was named for.

The man stared down at him with bulging eyes, only able to get out a soft rasp. Lendric sighed wearily. Discord’s temper was well-known, often exceeding that of Chaos, and since he had the strength to match it, he was formidable when pushed too far.

“Now really, Discord,” he interjected. “I don’t take kindly to guests choking my assistants, so kindly release Normrynth.” At his initial reluctance, Lendric’s eyes flared red, and his voice deepened even more. “Now, my friend,” he said with deceptive quiet.

Glaring once more at the assistant, Discord casually relaxed his hand.

Normrynth dropped to the floor with a loud, “Ooof!” He then sat up with a murderous expression. “Next time, Westbrooke, I’ll drop you like a pebble from the top of Chavernos’s highest mountain!”

“In your case, that shouldn’t be much of a threat,” growled Discord, earning an angry mutter from him as he left the room. Folding his arms, he turned to face Lendric. “We meet again, o’ dragon of ages.”

“Yes,” he replied with a smirk. “Glad to see you too, o’ discordant son of my old friend. How is Chaos these days?”

“Chaotic as usual,” drawled Discord. “You know, you really should put some lighting in this place. That outer tunnel is so dark, you’d have to be an elf with infra-red vision to manage without it.”

“What would you have me do? Put up rows of lanterns for the ‘tourists’?” he asked sarcastically. “Besides, that’s what torches are for, and in my elven form I do have the required vision anyway.”

Knowing better than to match wits with Lendric, Discord gestured to his side. “I take it you’ve become reacquainted with my wife Warp.”

“And bewitched by her as ever,” agreed Lendric, kissing her hand gently. At her uncharacteristic blush, Discord stepped forward to pull her back, clasping her hand meaningfully to entwine her fingers with his own. The silent gesture spoke volumes. Smiling slightly, the dragon elf shook his head knowingly. “The Westbrooke men are ever possessive about their women, are they not?”

“That’s why they’re ever in demand by the ladies,” agreed Warp, squeezing her husband’s hand reassuringly.

“Which brings us to the reason we’re here,” continued Discord. “But perhaps our son should be the one to explain this, since it involves him.”

Lendric turned to the younger man, his smile becoming surprise as he appraised him. “Well I’ll be a son of a wyvern, if it isn’t... wait, don’t tell me...” He rubbed his head thoughtfully while mentally searching for the name. Before anyone could interrupt, he brightened. “Ah, I remember. Demonic, right?”

A short laugh escaped Discord. “More usually his brother, but at times I’d agree with that,” he murmured, just before Warp nudged him into silence.

“It’s Dominick,” she corrected, glaring at her husband. “Our son’s true name, despite Discord’s efforts to make it seem otherwise.

Needing to cast his irritation somewhere, since her catlike grin was only making things worse, he turned to their son. “I still don’t understand why you prefer that ordinary appellation your mother insisted on naming you,” growled Discord. “Phaser holds more status to your ability.”

“That’s just it,” argued Dominick. “I never wanted to be looked at solely for that. Besides, it’s not my fault that Grandfather decided your real name should be...”

Discord swiftly covered his son’s mouth before he could utter a syllable of the mysterious name. Some things he didn’t need blabbed to the entire world, or in this case, Lendric.

“I get the idea,” chuckled the dragon elf, smiling. “I’m sorry to have forgotten momentarily, Dominick, but it has been quite awhile since our last meeting. I still remember you as a boy when I was much taller than you, but now we stand as equals.”

“Time changes all of us except you, Lendric,” replied Dominick, his eyes twinkling as he shook his hand. “One of these days, you’ve got to show us where you hide your fountain of youth.”

“Ah... all internal, dear boy. Can’t be marketed.” He winked conspiratorially. “But if you ever find a way around that, let me in on it. We’d make a fortune!”

“I’m sure we would,” he agreed.

“A pleasant thought. But introductions aside, why don’t we get down to business?” Gesturing towards a group of chairs, Lendric waited until they were all seated before continuing amiably. “So, what grand trouble brings you here, Dominick? The need for another potion to send Riff croaking?”

Dominick grinned, albeit a bit sheepishly when his parents turned to him questioningly. They’d never known about that incident! When he’d been twelve years old, a whopper of a fight with his brother had prompted him to venture forth to locate Lendric in the dream-state, asking the dragon sorcerer if he’d grant him a potion to turn his scheming elder brother into a frog.

Lendric had been highly amused by the boy’s request, but told him that he obviously couldn’t just go turning anyone into frogs! Seeing his point, Dominick came up with an alternate... more subtle means to get even with his brother.

Placing a minor spell of illusion upon the fifteen-year-old Riff—who had lately become quite favored by female attention—he suddenly developed a slight crimp to his style. For the next time he tried to kiss one of his many girlfriends good night, the spell caused her to see herself kissing a frog. Riff nearly jumped five feet at the girl’s scream, afterwards scratching her name out of his ‘little black book’.

It was only after the same thing happened with several other girls that Riff finally cloistered himself in his room and bemoaned his fate to become a monk for life.

Unfortunately, overhearing this was Dominick’s downfall.

Since he began rolling on the floor with laughter outside his brother’s door, Riff put the pieces together and deduced that he had something to do with his sudden trouble with women. To find out for certain, he met his brother in the dream-state under another guise to sneak the information out of him. After discovering the truth, he turned into a hideous beast and frightened the younger boy into waking up screaming.

From that day on, the pranks continued nonstop, some of them quite serious when they were older, such as with Riff’s seducing Dominick’s girlfriends behind his back, or in front of him. Followed by Dominick’s spreading rumors to Riff’s girlfriends about various illnesses and diseases he’d contracted.

In other words, it was war.

A constant war that Lendric occasionally tuned in on for amusement!

“Ah... no frog potions today,” Dominick replied quickly, distracting his parents before they asked questions. Certain things were better left unsaid! “What I need now is a very powerful spell of teleportation.”

Lendric’s eyebrows raised in amazement. “A realm of teleportation beyond your mother’s remarkable ability?” he queried. “I find that hard to believe.”

“It involves teleportation to another planet.”

The dragon elf clicked his tongue with a chuckle. “Now, Dominick... I’m sure your brother may seem to deserve banishment to Mars on occasion, but to actually teleport him there for good...”

“This has nothing to do with Riff,” Dominick interrupted, a slow smirk forming. “Although I may note your suggestion for future reference. But seriously, I was thinking more along the lines of traveling to another world to be united with the woman I wish to marry.”

Lendric’s wide grin nearly rivaled that of his dragon form. “And I thought I’d seen everything in all my years as a dragon,” he laughed, patting Dominick’s shoulder companionably. “Congratulations, dear boy! What’s the lucky girl’s name?”

“Julianna. The problem is...”

The dragon laughed again. “It’s about time you decided to settle down and give that grandfather of yours a few great-grandkids. Now maybe he’ll stop pestering me over it.”

“He probably will, but first...”

“I’m sure you’ll be very happy together. So tell me, when’s the wedding? I wouldn’t miss it for the universe.” Seeing the younger man murmur in frustration, he stopped instantly. “You were saying something?”

“What I was saying was, the sentiment is appreciated,” replied Dominick, “but you’re missing the point. Julianna lives on another planet in the galaxy, and I’ve only been able to spend time with her while in my astral form in the dream-state. So while we both love each other and want to get married, we can’t in reality until we can be brought together on the same world.”

“Hmmm... that would present a bit of a problem, wouldn’t it?” murmured Lendric. “She’s not from Mars, is she?” Dominick shook his head. “I’m glad to hear it. I doubt your grandfather would approve of you living there for the rest of your life. So, where is this girl from then?”

“The planet on the other side of the sun... Earth.”

“Earth?” exclaimed Lendric, brightening slightly.

Dominick’s eyes narrowed curiously. “You sound as if you know something of it.”

“I should say so,” he agreed. “I’ve been there.”

Nothing could have pleased the younger man more, feeling as if he’d just been granted the key to the galaxy, his thankful smile illuminating the room. “By Chaos, Lendric, you’re a wonder. This means the problem’s solved, and Julianna and I can have a future together in reality.”

“Well… not exactly.”

Dominick’s enthusiasm died instantly. “Not exactly?” he murmured. “I don’t understand. You just said you’ve been to Earth.”

“In the past, yes I have,” Lendric said uneasily, “but as of three months ago, this mode of teleportation has disappeared.” Seeing the expected confusion on the younger man’s face, he patted his shoulder once. “Half a moment, and I’ll explain. You see, my brothers...” Abruptly, Normrynth ran in, immediately tugging at his shoulder.

“Your pardon, Master Lendric, but someone else...”

“Wyvern’s wings, man, can’t you see I’m busy?” he growled. “Tell whoever it is to come back later! As it is, this place is becoming more crowded than a medical waiting room.”

“Yes, but she’s being most stubborn.”

Lendric blinked at that. “She?”

In answer, a voice shouted out, “Lendric, you gold-scaled demon!” Leaning back, the dragon elf sighed wearily, just before a beautiful woman with bright red hair strode into the room. “Will you kindly tell this upstart of an apprentice just who I am, before I’m given cause to do so my way?”

Lendric gestured towards her. “Normrynth, this is my sister Carilya I once mentioned. Kindly don’t bar her entrance the next time.”

Normrynth blanched, stuttering nervously. “Oh, my word, I didn’t know...”

“You do now, you arrogant toothpick!” snarled Carilya, hands on hips, rounding on her brother. “Lendric, I sent you word that I’d be arriving. Didn’t you get my letter?”

“Yes, I got it,” sighed Lendric. “Is he with you?”

Carilya’s face turned as red as her hair. “His name is Devon, and you will treat him with respect.” As her brother nodded once, she turned about. “Sweetheart, I told you he’d see us. Come and meet him.”

A tall dark-haired man walked in, granting a respectful nod to Lendric. All the while, his eyes remained wary. “I presume you’re my wife’s brother?”

Lendric managed a crooked smile. “And I presume, you’re my sister’s human mate, Devon Williams.”

“Aye,” he declared. “As human as she’s a dragon, but bearing her no less love than any man.”

“So you say,” he replied. “I would assume she’s told you of the potential consequences to this marriage if you ever have any offspring.” Devon remained silent. “They’ll all be part dragon as she is: strong, resistant to the elements, and long-lived past you by countless years.”

“Indeed,” agreed Devon. “As they’ll all be part human as well.”

Eyes narrowing, Lendric added, “Due to that factor, you may end up condemning one or more to bear the onus of the violet eyes, attracting them dark enemies from birth!”

“Carilya told me of this,” he replied. “But since I’ve had to survive by my wits since being orphaned at the age of ten, I think I’m more than capable of protecting any children we may have.”

Lendric laughed without humor. “Clever fool!” he sneered. “Think your frail human skin will protect you against the demons and dragons of the night that would run you through or set you aflame in a heartbeat?”

“She’s told me that children of the violet eyes develop a great power in time. That shall aid them protection.”

“Carilya left out one point then. Those powers never develop before they reach maturity, and generally not until they reach the age of twenty-five.” Devon’s cheek twitched, but he remained silent. “In any event, it would seem I have no choice but to accept what is already true. Therefore, you are welcomed by our family. I just pray for both your sakes, and your possible future children, that no tragedy will result from this.”

Smiling proudly, Devon stepped forward to shake the dragon elf’s hand. “You have my word, I’ll protect my family with my life.”

Lendric’s eyes remained somber. “Pray you never need to test that, Devon Williams.”

Clapping her hands once, Carilya brightened. “Well, I’m glad that’s settled. Now, would you mind introducing your other guests?”

*****



“Now, back to the situation at hand,” Lendric sighed shortly afterwards, turning back to the awaiting Westbrooke trio. “It’s rather interesting you should mention the need to travel to Earth, Dominick. Only a few years ago, I went there myself, and I was planning to again in the near future.”

“You visit Earth regularly?”

“Well, from time to time,” said Lendric, spreading his hands. “It’s an unpredictable universe, and sometimes there are necessary reasons for doing the unusual.”

Discord coughed loudly, folding his arms while glaring at his son. “Yes, I believe Dominick and his brother are no strangers to the unusual so to speak. Especially this one. Falling in love with a woman from another world.”

His wife touched his arm gently to silence him. “You mentioned a method of teleportation earlier. What was it?”

Lendric nodded once, waving a hand in the air to cause a misty vision to appear. As the vision grew clearer, he gestured towards it. “This is the legendary Myzalik Teleportation Staff, and the device you require.” From the vision, it looked like an ordinary dark brown wooden staff, with the exception of a crystal orb—the size of a golf ball—positioned at the top, which emitted a glow of rainbow colors.

“It is to the best of my knowledge, the only teleportation device which survived the Mage War intact, and only a select few—yourselves included—know of its existence. Not something I would want known to the masses, so please keep it within your own family.” They all nodded.

“It was named for its creator, the human sorcerer Astorian Myzalik. He was a long-time ally of the late Magus Clan, who as you may know, discovered the means of teleportation to Earth.”

“Yes,” Dominick agreed somberly. “Chaos reviewed their history with me.” At his parents’ confused looks, he smiled. “I’ll explain later. Lendric, please continue.”

The dragon sorcerer nodded. “Astorian was old but survived the Mage War. Sometime before his death years later, he passed it on to his only son Cyrus, who was also a sorcerer, and who underwent a transformation to become a half-dragon to match the years of his dragon wife Melanthe.” He smiled slightly. “Cyrus and Melanthe are my parents, and they passed the Staff on to me.”

The younger man looked shocked. “Did they die too?”

Lendric laughed, shaking his head. “No, dear boy, they’re very much alive and well. But my father knew of my curiosity for other worlds and decided I would appreciate it more, as well as be responsible with it.”

Sighing heavily, he abruptly shook his head. “But I’m getting ahead of myself. The Myzalik Staff is undoubtedly one of the most powerful items on Chavernos due to its seemingly limitless range of operation.”

“Can the Staff send more than one person there and back?” asked Dominick. Lendric nodded slowly, sparking a suspicion. “You mentioned your brothers earlier. Do they have it now?”

The dragon elf smiled. “Insightful as ever,” he replied. ”Which brings us to what happened several months ago. My elder brother Zaruldar, and my younger brother Pyrozill, wished to borrow it for the span of a few weeks. While I would be more hesitant to loan it to Pyro alone, with his often juvenile attitude despite his age, I presumed that Zaruldar’s wise counsel would be sufficient to accompany him.”

Carilya clicked her tongue as she reentered the room with her husband. “Apparently, you were wrong,” she replied. “You should have known better with Pyro. By now, he’s obviously gotten them lost elsewhere in the galaxy.”

“Or worse still, the universe,” sighed Lendric, rubbing his forehead. “When it had only been a month, at first I thought they’d simply gotten sidetracked. But even Zaruldar wouldn’t disappear for longer than that. They were due back nearly three months ago, and there’s been no word from either since.”

“But surely there’s some way to contact them,” pressed Dominick. “A spell of communication?”

“It’s been attempted, with no success. Even skilled dreamphasers were unable to find them. Seeing no other choice, I contacted some demons I know and sent them after my brothers a month ago, in the hope of locating and bringing them back.”

“You sent demons after them?” asked Discord. “Aren’t you concerned they might steal the Staff for themselves if they do find them?”

“This pair won’t, since they already owe me for several debts, let alone I’m taking care of their infant son in the meantime.”

Carilya’s eyes widened. “You have a demon child here? Do you have any idea what kind of trouble they cause?”

As if in answer, a loud wail erupted, followed by what sounded like a small explosion. Lendric glared at his sister. “Dammit, Carilya, you know that even from infancy, they’re highly intelligent and temperamental when offended. Thank you for indirectly destroying my back room!”

Another explosion emphasized this.

Not wanting to deal with another tongue-lashing from her brother, Carilya went to see to the infant, along with Devon, both hoping the damage wasn’t as bad as it sounded.

“As I was saying,” continued Lendric, rolling his eyes at an angry screech from his sister, “Those demons are my most reliable sources, as well as friends of my brothers, and they’re equally concerned by their disappearance. If anyone can locate Zaruldar and Pyrozill, they can. In which case, if the staff is brought back safely as well, I can surely bring you and your Julianna together in reality. But until then, there’s not much I can do to help you.”

Dominick leaned forward in his chair, clasping his hands. “Then I suppose that’ll have to be enough, unless an alternate means can be found,” he sighed. “I only wish I’d met Julianna six months ago, when the means was still a certainty.”

Lendric rested one hand against his shoulder. “Time and space cannot bar the path of destiny, Dominick,” he said quietly. “If you and Julianna are truly meant to be together, a way will be found. And I swear I’ll contact you as soon as I have more information.”

The younger man glanced up at him with a somber nod, oblivious to when his parents stood. “We’d best get you back to the island now, sweetheart,” Warp interceded. “Night falls quickly at this time of year, and I’d hate to push our luck with the creatures of this area.”

Seeing their son’s hesitancy to speak, Discord patted his back once. “Hey,” he murmured, earning Dominick’s attention. “It’s not like all hope’s been snatched forever here. The teleportation staff’s still a viable possibility. It just may take some time to locate it and its two bearers, that’s all. Look at the bright side. At least Chaos won’t force you to wed Sionne in the meantime.”

As if he could, Dominick thought, nodding silently with a grim smile.

“It’s just as well,” Warp added curtly. “There’s something about that girl’s nature that seems to be more of an illusion than that ability of hers. I’m sure your Julianna will be a much more suitable marriage partner.”

“I doubt the boy would be putting himself through this ordeal if he thought otherwise,” retorted Discord.

“Hmph!” sneered Warp. “He should only know the ordeal I went through getting you to the altar, with us being on the same world.”

As she swept past her husband, Discord gestured towards Lendric with a forced smile. “If you’ll excuse me while I straighten out my wife’s obviously confused memory on the subject, I’ll wait with her by the exit.”

Dominick stood quickly. “Actually, Dad, would you and Mom give me another few minutes with Lendric. I have something else I need to speak with him about, and it shouldn’t take long.”

“By all means,” Discord replied. Smiling meaningfully for his benefit, he added, “And no need to rush, son.”

Glancing after the departing couple, Lendric laughed quietly. “Some things never change,” he remarked.

“Maybe not,” agreed Dominick. “But there may be one other way you could help my situation with Julianna.” Lendric nodded for him to continue. “Is there any way to prove to her beyond a doubt the truth of our existence and Chavernos?”

The dragon sorcerer rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “Hmmm, you don’t ask easy requests, do you?”

“It would mean a great deal to me if she was granted the truth, so she needn’t doubt the legitimacy of what we have.” Sighing once, he stared at the ceiling. “I thought of two solutions myself, but even they can only prove so much.”

“Which are?”

“The first is that I can appear to her in my astral form while she’s completely awake,” explained Dominick, “but it would still be difficult for her to see me then, and she might think it to be a hallucination.”

Sighing once, he went on. “The second method involves her elder sister Crystal. From what Julianna says, she seems fairly open-minded, so I’ve considered the notion of visiting her in the dream-state to try and convince her of the truth.”

“Which might only result in having Crystal believe she’s conjured up images of you from Julianna’s stories, proving little.”

“Exactly,” exclaimed Dominick, “but what else can I do? As things stand, I know part of Julianna wonders if any of this is real at all.”

Lendric was silent for long moments before replying. “There may be one other way,” he replied softly, “but if I tell it to you, you must swear it will never be revealed to anyone else on Chavernos, with the exception of Chaos. Since he’s the one who sent you here, it’s only fitting that you can share this information with him, and my old friend does well in keeping things confidential when needed, as do I.”

“All right... go ahead.”

“This is most serious,” hissed the dragon, his eyes glowing red. “And I must insist you swear silence of it!”

Sobering completely, Dominick met his gaze. “On my honor, you have my word, I swear I’ll tell no one on Chavernos besides Chaos,” he replied.

His eyes returning to their normal shade, Lendric clasped Dominick’s shoulder. “Please forgive my seeming harshness. It involves a boy I brought to Earth years ago, along with his parents.”

Dominick’s eyes widened. “Others from our world reside there?” he asked incredulously.

“A few, yes, but in secret, for reasons I’ll explain.” Steepling his hands, his expression became concerned. “The boy I speak of is a half-dragon, as my sister Carilya’s children will be, and he bears the trait of the violet eyes. As you heard from my conversation with Devon, you know what this means. He was sent to Earth, with his parents, to protect him from the forces of darkness on Chavernos who would kill him before he reaches adulthood—when he’ll gain his full powers, whatever they may be.”

Neither noticed Devon’s presence as he overheard Lendric’s last words, nor saw the somber look on his face as he returned to his wife in the back room.

“While it’s imperative their whereabouts be kept secret from those of our world, I see no reason you can’t share this with your fiancée.”

Understanding dawned instantly with Dominick. “So if Julianna locates his family, they can provide proof that Chavernos exists, since they’re from our world.”

Lendric nodded slowly. “There is but one thing you must stress to her. She must speak only with his parents, for he isn’t meant to know his true identity until his time comes to return to Chavernos. For now, he believes he’s from Earth and is completely human as anyone else. We mutually agreed from the start that it would allow him to grow up normally on Earth.”

“I’m sure she’ll comply with that,” he agreed.

“Good,” replied the dragon sorcerer. “You can explain this to Julianna and her sister, but don’t tell anyone else, and tell them the same as well. Only they have reason to know the truth of our world for now, including the family they’ll meet.” Dominick nodded.

Another wail from the demon child rang out, sparking a series of curses from the pair in the back room. Sighing once, Lendric commented with a smirk, “You know, if you showed your grandfather that demon child, he might think twice about his request for great-grandchildren from you.”

“That won’t be necessary,” laughed Dominick. “When Julianna and I are married, we’ll be happy to grant him several.”

“Be sure to have them visit their Uncle Lendric when you do,” replied the dragon sorcerer, eyes twinkling, before he continued. “Now, let me give you the full details of how your future wife can locate the family of Oliver Dragend.”

*****

Dual stood grinning as he eyed the captive man before him. Bound to a chair and gagged, Alarius glared back at him, his expression fierce. Without a doubt, if he could have, he’d have torn his captor to pieces in a heartbeat.

Or at least tried, Dual thought with amusement.

“You really should have made things easier on yourself to begin with,” he told the half-elf. “By now, Quell and our assistants have mined most of the jewels, and should complete their work this night. Did you really think you’d manage to escape without my tracking you down?” Seeing that Alarius was unable to speak through the gag, he deftly remedied this. “Well, did you?” he demanded.

“I had no choice but to try,” hissed Alarius. “As it is, when word of my disappearance spreads, there will be allies of my own who’ll catch onto your handiwork. And when they do, they’ll see you banished from Barokka forever.”

“Maybe,” chortled Dual. “But that won’t help you or your precious family, since I’ll most certainly kill you first.” The half-elf wouldn’t reply, turning away. “Oh, by the way, it might interest you to hear the latest regarding your traitorous friend. It seems he’s presently engaged to be married.” Alarius blinked once, genuinely surprised. “Yes, I’m sure I was equally stunned to hear a woman had actually agreed to spend the rest of her life with that fool.”

“Better him than an assassin derelict from the swamps.”

Dual grinned menacingly, slamming his fist into the half-elf’s jaw. His blow drew blood, but not a sound from Alarius, who merely continued to face him icily. Raising a finger in warning, Dual hissed, “Remember, that derelict you speak of is a professional assassin many times over. And one who won’t hesitate to cut out your tongue if you don’t curb it.”

“Undoubtedly a specialty of yours,” spat Alarius, a slight trickle of blood stemming from his mouth.

His captor laughed harshly. “You have no idea what other ‘specialties’ I’ve conjured up over the years. But as to your friend’s engagement, you might wish to hear what I have planned as a... wedding present.” Alarius’s eyes narrowed as he continued. “It’s a tricky preparation, since his precious bride-to-be Julianna resides on the planet Earth, but my trusty associate Shade has kindly lent his assistance in finding her location. Thus, I can freely visit her in the dream-state this night.”

“By Chavernos, Dual, leave her be! She’s an innocent in this endless war of yours with Dominick.”

“She’s no longer an innocent since accepting him into her life, thus I can feel no remorse for what retribution must befall her.”

Alarius smiled bitterly. “I doubt your former innocent betrothed Caralei would condone your logic.”

Dual’s fist plowed into the side of his head, nearly rendering him unconscious this time. “Never speak her name upon your filthy tongue again!” he hissed. “It’s because I was once a fool to trust people like you that she died!”

“She died because of the allies of the evil demon who sired you,” Alarius replied quietly. “A demon whom you killed, which started a chain reaction...”

“Enough!” snarled Dual, lifting Alarius’s chin with the sharp edge of his sword. “Understand this, half-elf, if anyone is to suffer due to a chain reaction, it will most certainly be your trusted friend this time. In fact, you’re to be a major key to this whole affair.

Alarius’s expression became wary, but puzzled. “You see, I’ve sent a most alarming note to your dear wife, which should inspire her to beg Westbrooke to rescue you. And while all this is transpiring, he’ll be too busy searching for you to notice my visiting his future wife in the meantime to pay her my own respects. And just think,” he laughed, “if you’d acquiesced peacefully earlier, I wouldn’t have this useful means to deter Dominick tonight.”

Before the half-elf could protest, Dual quickly replaced the gag over his mouth. “Ah, no words are necessary, Alarius. I know just what you’re thinking. And I assure you, not only will I take great pleasure in keeping his betrothed occupied, but a suitable group of attackers will also be here to greet him should he find you. After that, your usefulness will end, along with your life.”

Against Alarius’s muffled curses, Dual rubbed his hands in gleeful musing. “Yes... all in all, I’d say this should be a most memorable evening for all of us.”

*****

Julianna decided it was a good thing Roger had been forced to leave the office on another business matter by the time she returned from lunch with Marybeth. Surely he’d complain of her impromptu departure to Almira the next day, but for now she was reprieved. No doubt the whole event would earn Dominick’s amusement later! she thought with a smirk.

Now much later that night, she tucked Sammy in for bed, since Crystal was busy putting away the dishes downstairs. “All set for dreamland?” she asked cheerfully. Sammy nodded once, just before his expression grew curious.

“Aunt Julie, how’s Uncle Dominick doing?” he asked.

Frozen by surprise as she clasped the covers, she gradually resumed her task, smiling slightly. “He’s fine,” she whispered. “He even asks after you sometimes.”

“Really?” Sammy replied with a grin.

She nodded once, handing him his toy dinosaur. “I told him how much you like dinosaurs, and while he says they don’t have any on Chavernos, they do have dragons there.”

“Dragons?” he breathed, suddenly frowning. “Bad ones?”

“Well… maybe a few,” she agreed, “but he says there are many good ones too. One of the blue ones is a close friend of his, called Roderlin, whom he’s known for many years.”

“Will I get to meet a real dragon?” he asked with more enthusiasm.

Julianna laughed. “Maybe someday,” she replied, “but probably not for a while. In the meantime, you’d better get some sleep.”

Nodding once, Sammy curled up with his toy and shut his eyes. Julianna smiled upon him, kissing his forehead before leaving the room. As she closed the door behind her, she turned to bump into Crystal. “Oh, I’m sorry,” she said quietly. “I didn’t see you standing there.” Before she could pass, her sister prevented this.

“I think we need to talk,” she said evenly.

“There’s nothing to say.”

“I heard you telling Sammy about Dominick again.”

Julianna bit her lip and met her gaze. “What of it? It’s just a game between us.” At her sister’s continued silence, her patience reached its end. “Don’t believe me? Fine. Then what if I told you that my story to Sammy is true and that Dominick really exists out there?” As soon as the words were out—successfully leaving Crystal gaping—Julianna regretted them, pushing past her to head downstairs.

She wasn’t surprised to hear her sister’s footsteps trail after her. “Julianna Sherborne, you’re not going anywhere!”

That’s what she thinks, thought Julianna, heading for the front door. Crystal beat her to it, holding it shut. “Get out of my way,” she murmured.

“You don’t have to run this time, Julie,” replied Crystal. “There’s no one else in the house with us except for Sammy, and he’s in bed. You’ve always been able to come to me with everything in the past, and I think it’s time you leveled with me about this Dominick. Now... who is he really, and where did you meet him?”

Pausing a moment, Julianna locked eyes with Crystal. “He’s as I’ve told Sammy, and as you’ve overheard.”

Crystal groaned, rubbing her forehead. “I remember. A dream person who exists on another world, but meets you each night, that you’re supposedly engaged to. Julie, if you don’t want us to meet this man, just say so. You don’t have to conjure up stories.”

“I didn’t conjure up anything,” Julianna retorted brokenly. “Dominick does exist on another world, and we are engaged to be married. I just wish to heaven I could convince you how true this really is.” Brushing a hand across her eyes, she wasn’t surprised to feel dampness upon it.

“Julie, you’re crying,” whispered Crystal, prompting her sister to turn away. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you get so upset by a story before, whether it’s one you’ve read or one you’ve come up with yourself.”

“For the last time, it’s not a story!” snapped Julianna. “It’s the truth!”

Crystal shook her head, clasping her sister’s hands tightly. “Julie, don’t talk that way. I know you’re lonely, and you sometimes wish you had someone in your life, as I have Jerry and Vicki has Luke. But we love you too much to lose you to a fantasy world you’ve conjured up. If you repeated this to an outsider, the results could be disastrous.”

“Don’t you think I know that?” Julianna laughed bitterly. “I wouldn’t dare tell anyone, despite the fact this secret’s nearly choking me to death. So rather than confide in you or Vicki, I told Sammy instead. At least he’s an innocent child who won’t condemn me for the truth.” Her eyes dimmed to a withering look, while she shook her head. “What’s true already doesn’t need your belief.”

Her sister’s ensuing protest died, replaced by an odd expression. “All right, Julianna. For now, just between us, let’s assume that your words are true. Going by that assumption, I want you to tell me everything from the very beginning. I promise not to laugh, and I’ll hear you out before giving anymore opinions.”

Uncertainty in her eyes, Julianna glanced at her sister. “You really want to know?” she asked softly. Crystal squeezed her hands and nodded with a smile.

“I really do,” she replied, smiling. “If your sketch the other day does him justice, he looks like a handsome man.”

“In more than looks,” she agreed.

Still hesitant, but too tired to argue anymore, Julianna gradually told her everything from the moment she’d first seen Dominick to the present. She went on to say that although it sounded impossible, her dreams of him were always vivid each night, and recollected every morning with undeniable clarity. A cycle that had gone on for several weeks now.

When Crystal read between the lines, she asked her younger sister just how far their relationship had gone. Even before Julianna said a word, her flushed face more than revealed the answer, earning a knowing smile from her sister. Yet it was Crystal who was left gaping when her ‘innocent’ younger sister lightly touched on the numerous romantic encounters she’d had with her otherworld companion.

As ironic as it was, it was those selfsame descriptions that convinced Crystal that there might be some truth to her sister’s words. After all, as imaginative as Julianna was, she had limits to what subjects she would freely conjure up for stories... and romance wasn’t one of them, until now.

The mention of Chavernos earned mixed feelings from Crystal. After having been brought up in a world believing the galaxy to consist of the planets she’d known, it was hard to imagine there being a hidden one. Yet since it was more than unlikely that Earth harbored the only humans in the universe, perhaps it could be true.

“Dominick just found out from his grandfather that there was a time when Chavernians traveled to Earth,” Julianna commented. “Unfortunately, a war broke out over this, and those who knew the means to travel between our worlds were killed or lost.”

Crystal rubbed her chin. “If it was possible once, then surely another means could be found.”

“That’s our hope, and he’s looking into it now. Anyway, he says that according to the elders on his world, Chavernos has been in existence roughly as long as Earth, and that those of his world migrated there many years ago to live. Their dreamphasers—in their astral forms—discovered Earth soon after, and before they worried of Earth’s potential technology, they adapted to our language, which is why the similarity exists.”

“Since they’re both in the same galaxy, that makes sense,” agreed Crystal. Even as she nodded, inside she thought, I can’t believe I’m considering this!

Yet truth or not, she couldn’t deny that her younger sister seemed to have an endless supply of details for Chavernos. Something that at least made it sound more believable.

“Once they realized ours was a world of technology,” Julianna continued, “they shut down the possibility of communication between our worlds, magically enhancing the mist that hides Chavernos from view.”

As she finished relating what she knew, tears blurred her eyes again, earning her sister’s curious concern. “I’m crying because this should be the happiest time in my life, but I can’t tell anyone. You’re the only one whom I’ve told everything, and I can’t even blame you for thinking me crazy too. It would sound crazy to anyone.”

“Hold it right there,” interrupted Crystal. “I already told you to let me reserve judgment, and I certainly don’t think you’re crazy. Okay?”

Julianna nodded slowly. “All right,” she sighed, “but even if you do believe me, I can’t prove Dominick’s existence.” As she shut her eyes, her hand rested against her forehead wearily. “Even though I want to be Dominick’s wife more than anything else, and I won’t let anything change that, I can’t help but feel how difficult this uncertain waiting is going to be.”

Crystal’s hand on her shoulder made her look up.

“The proof of Dominick’s existence is in your eyes,” she said softly. “Along with your drawing, and the way you talk so lovingly of him. As to the restrictions of this rather unusual engagement of yours, remember this. To all intents and purposes, you’re separated for roughly the same amount of hours that a daytime work schedule separates most couples. In a way, it’s like you’re living two different lives, although being married myself, I fully understand why you’ve chosen to remain faithful in both.”

Her words caused Julianna to blink with surprise and building hope. “You believe me?” she whispered.

“As much as I’m able to... yes,” Crystal sighed heavily. “After all, you haven’t lied to me before, so I can’t think why you’d start now. Especially not with a story like that.”

A new joy lit Julianna’s expression. “Oh, Crystal, you can’t possibly know how much it means to hear you say that.”

“I think I can guess,” she replied with a smile. “While I’ll be the first to admit that you still have an incredible imagination, Julie, your tears convinced me that your words might somehow be true. Not to mention,” she added slyly, “I’ve never heard you make up romantic stories like those you just told me.” Giving a short laugh at her sister’s blush, she continued, “I’m just glad you’re feeling better, because we all love you, and we want you to be happy.”

A worried look crossed Julianna’s face. “Crystal, even though you can accept what I’ve told you to some degree, I doubt Vicki and the rest...”

“Say no more,” her sister interrupted. “To avoid any scrutiny from the others, it’ll remain a secret just between the two of us.” Before a correction could be spoken regarding a certain little boy, she added, “Or should I say, between the three of us?”

“Sammy doesn’t seem to mind the notion of Dominick for an uncle,” said Julianna. “And from what my fiancé says, I think he’ll be thrilled to have Sammy as a nephew too.”

“Well, as long as he makes you happy, I’m sure we’ll all like him when we meet him eventually.”

Frowning slightly, Julianna shook her head. “I told you before... that might never become possible.”

Crystal warded this away. “Maybe not. But let’s try and keep open minds about it. After all, I’ve more than kept my part of that bargain, haven’t I?”

“Much more,” agreed Julianna, leaning forward to hug her sister. “Thank you so much for believing me.”

“It’s no more than I’ve always known from you,” said Crystal, giving a slight shrug as they broke apart. “Yet even so, I must admit that it would be much easier to accept if you could somehow back up your words with proof. Have you given any thought to the matter?”

Julianna nodded. “Dominick and I both have, but it’s not an easy task. Physical proof is as elusive as a way to bring us together on the same world.” Sighing once, she eyed Crystal knowingly. “I suppose I can’t have your complete belief until we come up with something.”

“It is difficult, although I’m doing the best I can,” she agreed. “But if you do think of a way, I’ll be glad to see your story proven true beyond a doubt.”

“That’s good enough for me,” said Julianna with a smile. “Crystal, I promise you, if Dominick ever does find a way here, I’ll be more than happy to introduce him to you, Sammy, and the rest of the family as well.”

“Yes, and that’s not all you’re going to do if he shows up here,” Crystal replied firmly, piquing her sister’s curiosity. “If your future husband intends to keep his two sisters-in-law from reprimanding him later, he’d best duly consider the notion of not only marrying you on his world, but on this one as well, so we can be present for it. And you can tell him I said that.”

“Believe me, that’s one request I’ll gladly agree to, if we’re brought together,” Julianna said hopefully, staring out the window with a smile. “And if my fiancé was here right now to back me up, I’m sure he’d agree, even without your wrath or Vicki’s to contend with.”

“Smart man,” Crystal said thoughtfully. “Best hold onto that one so we can someday meet him for real.”

Julianna gave a short laugh. “Don’t worry, Crystal,” she replied knowingly. “I’ve finally found the man of my dreams... and damned if I’ll let him get away from me now.”

*****