The Hero’s Right Hand

Centuries ago, Vethyeans often spoke of an emerald dragon guarding Mount Ikrali. Though it often left the mountain ranges no one knew where it went. The dragon struck fear into the hearts of the people. Edthecridaldyrth, eclipsed many of his kind in size. No town could handle a single step from the massive creature. Rumors said he walked amongst denizens of Vethyea but no one could prove it. The only way to confirm would be finding his home within Mount Ikrali. Fortunately for him, the climb was impossible.

There was nothing that could be mistaken for a path along the mountain. Remnants of failed expeditions were buried under layers of snow. Within the sheets of powder were rigid vines that protected Edthecridaldyrth from unwanted visitors. No one had even made it halfway up the mountain. The trek took too long to do in a single stretch. However, by taking time to rest, expeditionists left themselves open to danger. Gear would be shattered or eaten by the very land they stood on. Gold and treasure vanished the moment it left the grasp of its owners.

Though it was known no one could reach Mount Ikrali’s summit, everyone returned alive. Climbers would fall from great heights but something would break their fall. When hunger struck and their reserves ran dry, food would appear before them. No one was welcome in Edthecridaldyrth’s home. That didn’t mean they had to die trying. He simply wanted privacy. A safe haven where he could concentrate on what he held dear.

In this case, it was the young dragon that the father doted upon. Sariel spent her time digging tunnels under Mount Ikrali. The child knew little but one thing was for sure; the horde must be protected. Paths wound underground in every direction. Some led to traps or dead ends while others were manned by kobolds sworn to her father. Every once in a while her tunnels would stretch too far and break through to the outside world. Sariel knew to inform her father immediately so he could seal the path and harden the displaced debris.

However, no one goes through life without a rebellious phase regardless of race. Openings that led to the surface became less accidental. Some were haphazardly blocked with less secure magic. Light from the outer world eked through the cracks and shone into a small room Sariel claimed as her own. The open sky and fresh air called to the young dragon. She’d barely used her wings in her lifetime due to the cramped cave. Flying in low circles quickly lost its luster. Even the kobolds had more opportunities to leave the cave than she had. Some chose to never return. There had to be something about the outside world to convince them.

“I wish only to see the mountain range, Ed,” Sariel complained. “Allow me to hunt at least.”

“It is dangerous,” Edthecridaldyrth said as he looked over his recently acquired treasure.

Sariel groaned. “You retrieve treasure and explore Vethyea on a near daily basis. I simply wish to join you sometimes.”

“I understand. It is too dangerous for a child.”

“I have lived eighty years! I am not a child!” Sariel roared.

Edthecridaldyrth sighed and looked at his daughter. “We are dragons. I do not care what others consider a seventy six year old to be. You are a child!”

“What age were you when you could explore the world? Did your mother not allow you to learn through experience?”

“I will not repeat her mistakes,” the elder dragon said and threw down the remaining treasures he held. “This can be completed at another time.”

He left in a huff, refusing to elaborate further. Sariel tried to follow but knew not to push her father. The cave became unbearable when they argued and left tension in the air. Edthecridaldyrth left through the exit at the top of the mountain. The young dragon remained by their horde and stared at the intricate goods from far away lands. Armor worn by knights who served royalty laid in a pile. Openings were filled with jewelry molded by expert crafters. A single ingot could be shaped in innumerable ways based on where it was treated. Sariel dreamed of seeing it done first hand. She knew there were other discoveries to be made unrelated to their horde. As long as she waited for permission, she’d never get a chance to explore.

Without hesitation she returned to her room and stared at the cracked stone walls. Based on the direction of light it was clear the sun was setting. No one came near this area so it was her only chance to get some fresh air. The wall tore open as roots expanded from within. Sunlight flooded the corridor as the young dragon got a glimpse of the outside world.

Cool air tickled the muscle beneath her under-developed scales. The scent of flowers carried on the air from fields at the base of Mount Ikrali. To Sariel’s chagrin, the air did not taste like fruit. Though it was much clearer than the stones and dust she’d dealt with her whole life. Slow steps brought her to the edge of the opening where she could look at the land below. Cities in the distance were blocked from view by dense forests. Small villages were hidden within and enticed Sariel to learn more. Edthecridaldyrth often spent days away from the cave on his hunts. There was plenty of time for the young dragon to explore.

The strength needed to lift her from the ground was rarely used. While hovering outside, she sealed the window again before flying into the forest. Staying low was safer in case her father returned early. It helped that all her experience in the air was only a few feet off the ground. Unfortunately, trees often got in her way but they did little to hinder. While Sariel was small compared to Edthecridaldyrth, she was massive next to anything else. Trees crumbled from her force and crashed in a cacophony. Woodland creatures scurried to safety in fear of the predator above them.

Sariel’s first stop was a small town nearby. With its stone walls against the greenery it was hard to miss. The dragon slowed as it got near to read the sign hanging over the stone arch; Foxhill. It was impossible to enter the gate at her size. Sariel’s father was able to transform into an elvish form but that was beyond the young dragon’s capabilities. With careful movements she stepped over the gate and into the town. There was no way to maneuver without hitting a building so she remained rigid while walking down the single wide street. 

To look into the stores Sariel bent her neck down. Windows were eclipsed by her eye as she stared at goods and occupants. Their different clothing and armor made it clear that very few hailed from Foxhill. Villagers remained frozen at the sight while others screamed in terror. Some began to draw weapons that enamored the dragon. Four adventurers wielded different kinds of swords she’d never seen. Before she could ask anything about them, one lunged at her and cut into her snout.

Sariel roared and stepped back. Small towns must be unaccepting of an uneducated dragon. She swore and flew away as a scale broke from her muzzle. Instead of returning to Mount Ikrali, she crossed to the other side. Larger cities were likely more open-minded towards foreign travelers.

From the cave she’d seen spires collected in a city to the east. Their structure intrigued her as they remained sturdy while stretching high into the sky. The city was significantly larger than Foxhill with unknown terrain. Yellow and brown minerals collected together into a malleable form that blanketed the land. Sariel was reminded of the snow that perpetually covered the main entrance of her home. Though the ground was familiar, the air was not. High temperatures surrounded the hundred of miles represented by the mineral land. Unfortunately, Sariel was unable to descend.

Stones of various sizes launched from the city walls. With no issue they pelted the dragon and stopped her in the air. Maneuvering and dodging was necessary for any overworld creature. It was obvious to Sariel she lacked the skill. The distinct sound of yelled commands emanated from the city. Small creatures scrambled as they prepared for battle. Some hid in the many buildings within the city. Arrows and rocks flew towards Sariel and she immediately took to the air.

People were scared of her form. Edthecridaldyrth must have known or he would have made it clear. Yet he still traveled the world while she could not. In frustration, Sariel returned to Mount Ikrali. She remained outside and wandered the massive rock. Remnants of expeditions surrounded the land. She knew her father assisted retreating adventurers. They were not welcome because they may kill the family.

Sariel absentmindedly picked at the stone behemoth she called home. What appeared as small scratches to her would be the foundation in future paths up the mountain. Each gouge would be a safe haven for travelers. Swipes of her tail cleared vines away and left clear areas. Her massive tears splashed away snow and debris. The world was not fair. Her dreams of exploration were awash. Head hung low, Sariel returned to her small window, opened it, and crept inside.

It didn’t take long for Edthecridaldyrth to find out what happened. Not due to the massive changes on Mount Ikrali. Rather, Sariel stopped mentioning the outside world. Sorting treasure and talking to the kobolds became enough to pass her time. Her father tried to ask for details but was brushed off. There was no argument or excuses, simply a denial to engage further. Sariel openly admitted seeing the world and rejecting it. Remembering the truth wounded her more than she could accept.

Like any caring father Edthecridaldyrth tried his hardest to help Sariel. Rather than treasure, he retrieved books and materials. He hunted different creatures so they could taste other worldly flavors. He even offered to let Sariel join him on hunts.

“I cannot hunt if I cannot transform. Am I correct, Ed?” Sariel asked.

“Yes. We can find a solution,” her father replied.

Sariel sighed. “You would have already if you believed me capable. I was only twenty years of age when you began teaching me the art of controlling nature. You trained me until you were satisfied with my abilities. Something about me informs you of my skills… or lack thereof.”

“My daughter was bound to be talented at our magic. I expect you will outgrow myself in the coming years.”

“But I will not be able to transform, correct?” Sariel asked.

Edthecridaldyrth looked hurt. “I do not know why but you are incapable of transformation. Thus I wished to create a world more accepting of our kind before allowing you to travel. Some places will be open to you—”

“However, I will not be able to walk amongst the citizens.” Sariel interjected. “I do not wish to lord over the denizens of the world. There is no reason to travel if I cannot interact with the people of those lands.”

“I understand,” the elder dragon sighed. “Allow me some time to look for a solution. I only ask that you do not recluse yourself from me, please.”

 

***

 

The sound of humanoid footsteps put everyone on alert. Edthecridaldyrth failed to set his traps back on Mount Ikrali. Only a few months in and people succeeded in scaling it. The entrance to Edthecridaldyrth’s cave wasn’t hidden. Instead the top of the mountain led directly inside. Cold air permeated through the halls of the cave and required the adventurers to remain cloaked and obscured. It didn’t take long for them to cross paths with kobolds guarding a tunnel that went towards the treasure chamber. Instead of attacking, the adventurers asked to see the dragon who lived in the cave.

Edthecridaldyrth was hesitant but agreed to meet them in an empty chamber with Sariel by his side. He wanted to show how to kindly deal with humanoids even if they were a threat. To his surprise, they approached openly with no weapon in sight.

Of the three covered humanoids, one stepped forward and removed his hood. Fur covered ears poked up as he brushed the snow off his face. His small snout grinned with awe at the dragons. Sariel did not recognize the creature’s race but her father knew of tabaxi. The adventurer kneeled in front of the giants.

“Hello, lord and lady. My name is Veil. My group and I come from the eastern city of Shusyoun,” he said. “Months ago we saw an emerald deity mark a path along Mount Ikrali and chose to see it as a sign of where we could find what we seek.”

“What is it you seek?” Edthecridaldyrth asked. “Our treasure is considered ineffective by your kind.”

“Our journey is not to find treasure but rather knowledge. We wish to bring peace among the races through the use of magic and science,” Veil explained. “Many creatures are bound by the beliefs of others. We wish to change their opinions. A deeper understanding of one another will diminish their fear.”

“Some months ago,” Sariel muttered. “I presume you saw what happened when I approached the… desert in the east.” The books from her father informed her of the phenomenon.

Veil nodded slowly. “Khergrin’s reaction to you was uncalled for.”

“Our kind are feared. If what you say is true; you seek to assuage the concerns of many,” Edthecridaldyrth said.

“Exactly,” Veil exclaimed. “If you would be willing to travel with us, you could help spread the word about your kind.”

Sariel frowned and looked away. Her father would get more opportunities to travel. The young dragon would be left alone to die in the cave until something changed about the world.

“I have traveled the world for many years. It is no longer of interest,” the elder dragon said. “I must refuse your request.”

“Based on what we saw, your daughter wants to learn about the world. Can she join us?” Veil replied.

Sariel blurted out, “I cannot transform. Though I would like to join you, it is not possible.”

The figures behind Veil murmured before one handed the tabaxi a vial. He smiled softly and held it forward for the dragons to see. Shimmering liquid flowed close to the brim, only held back by a cork.

“You are in luck, my lady. We created this potion to assist us in towns that only allowed a single race to enter,” Veil explained and popped the cork.

With a deep breath he drank the entire thing within seconds. The effect was almost immediate. Veil’s visible extremities became dull gray as his body morphed. Fur turned to scales and he grew taller. Soft paws transformed into scaled claws. The tabaxi was gone and a dragonborn took his place. Only his eyes remained the same silver orbs that looked at the dragons in admiration. Sariel couldn’t help but gasp. Even Edthecridaldyrth was impressed.

“This form lasts until I drink another potion,” Veil explained. “However, we will likely need to modify it to work on you.”

“Can you do so and return here with the modified concoction?” the elder dragon asked.

Veil shook his head. “It’s possible but I don’t recommend it. Shusyoun takes almost a year to reach on foot. We can collect data here and take it with us but finding the correct measurements takes many attempts. I foresee us having to travel back and forth for many years, maybe decades, before finding a successful concoction.”

Edthecridaldyrth hesitated to say anything. A few decades was nothing compared to their lifespan. Waiting for the potion would pass in an instant. But that knowledge came from experience. Sariel had only experienced rejection and the tunnels of a cave. The kobolds made for good company but the young dragon craved the outside world. Adventure called to her and it would be wrong of her father to stand in her way.

He nodded to Sariel and said, “The decision is yours to make, my dear.”

“I will go,” Sariel replied immediately. “Traveling will not take long with me by your side.”

“We are ready whenever you are, my lady. Do dragons need to pack?” Veil joked.

“Of course not,” Edthecridaldyrth said. He looked at his daughter and smiled. “I will not hinder your efforts nor stand in your search for knowledge. But, please return to me every so often. To put my mind at ease.”

“I will come back to you, Ed. Do not worry,” Sariel said.

The elder dragon couldn’t help but feel sorrow as his daughter walked out of the cave with her new comrades. They took in the view from Mount Ikrali summit and pointed towards their destination. Radiant emerald scales didn’t compare to the smile on Sariel’s face. Her wing was a sturdy platform used to climb onto her back. Familiarizing herself with the sensation of riders was important so they would not fall. Slow wing flaps lifted them to the sky and away from the mountain.

The adventurers used magic to keep steady as they approached the heavens. Veil’s voice carried to Sariel’s ear, guiding her towards their lab. It was prudent they avoid civilization. The trio was an outlier and anyone else would attack Sariel on sight. She hid behind clouds and used the sun to blind anyone looking towards them. Not months, weeks, or even days passed before they approached the lab. Hugging trees and remnants of old towns kept them from view.

Unfortunately, Sariel’s size was not conducive to stealthy movement. An old tower crumbled when she took an unfortunate turn and nearly landed on her back. Some debris hit the base of her neck and sent a chill down her spine. Luckily her passengers were unhurt. Before long they arrived at a group of small buildings hidden within an alcove surrounded by tightly packed trees. Other researchers greeted the party as they stepped off Sariel.

“This is the next step in improving the potion,” Veil said.

“Has she been… briefed?” Someone asked.

Veil smiled in a way that triggered Sariel’s natural instincts. But she was unable to flee. The scent of sulfur and lavender overtook her senses. For the first time in her life, her sharp sight blurred. Willpower alone couldn’t hold her body up and even that was quickly fading. The dragonborn’s body morphed without the use of a potion. Long white hair hung over gray shoulders. There was no muscle on the creature's body. Not a single distinct feature was identifiable. Except for two silver orbs staring down at its prey.