[h3][color=a187be][center]~Day Ten, Livia's Office~[/center][/color][/h3]


Luna had taken the night before to prepare some supplies and received some rations from the kitchens.  With a small bag of supplies with her, she arrived at the front of the Headmistress' office.  After clearing her throat, she knocked on the front of the door and awaited an answer.

As soon as Luna knocked, the door opened. The maid from the previous day greeted the knight with a cold gaze, eyes seeming to study her for a bit. Ultimately, she said nothing, only letting Luna into the room with obvious disapproval. She followed her in, unlike the previous day, closing the door behind her. She briskly walked past Luna, back to the side of Livia's desk where she picked up a teapot and poured some into the headmistress' cup.

[color=a187be]"Ah, Luna, good to see you this morning."[/color] Livia greeted with a smile. [color=a187be]"Tea?"[/color]

Luna's eyes met with the maid's as she looked on with disapproval.  It threw Luna off a bit to be sure.  Still, Livia asked if she wanted tea.  [color=yellow]"It's good to see you as well.  I suppose a spot of tea wouldn't hurt. . . If your assistant there wouldn't mind me being here a little bit longer."[/color]  Luna commented on the woman's harsh stare.

The maid, simply gave a harsh sniff before taking the teapot and pouring some for Luna.

[color=a187be]"Don't mind Cynthia. She simply takes her job seriously."[/color] Livia replied as Cynthia handed her some tea. [color=a187be]"Take a seat. I take it you are prepared, then? I don't anticipate any trouble, but there's always a chance for things to go awry in some manner. If there is trouble, my old friend should be able to help you at least somewhat."[/color] She took a sip of her tea. [color=a187be]"Unless she's the source of it."[/color] Livia chuckled quietly.

Luna forced out a small chuckle as she brought the tea up to her mouth and sipped it.  [color=yellow]"I think I'm prepared for a week's worth.  I can at least forage some as well, so I should be fine."[/color]  Luna said as she took another sip and continuing.  [color=yellow]"I've my sword, so I can defend myself in the worst case scenario.  Least a dragon decides to take my head, I believe I'll live."[/color]

The statement earned an obvious chuckle from Livia.

[color=a187be]"Oh yes, let's hope no dragons shall swoop down from above."[/color] Luna might find that statement amusing herself once she arrived at her destination. [color=a187be]"But that is good...though I do not think you shall have need of such things. But anyways, I don't think I should keep you for long."[/color] Livia reached into her desk, pulling out a rolled up piece of paper, and handed it to Luna.

[color=a187be]"A quick, one time use teleportation spell has been inscribed onto this scroll. It should take you to that acquaintance of mine's shop."[/color] Inside of the scroll was inscribed various symbols, runes, and intricate looking magical formula of sorts. [color=a187be]"Do not be too surprised when you get there, however. His shop is...rather unique."[/color]

[color=yellow]"Very well."[/color]  Luna said as she stood up, accepting the scroll.  [color=yellow]"I shall be leaving now."[/color] Luna said as she used the scroll, disappearing.  The next thing she knew, she appeared in some place she had never seen before. . .

The first thing Luna would likely notice was the stale air, as if the room had fairly little ventilation. Taking a small look around at the wooden room, it would be clear she was underground somewhere if the lack of windows were anything to go by but at least it was well lit. Hanging from the ceiling were various numbers of dried herbs, and numerous boxes seemed to be stacked together haphazardly. On the ground, was a surprisingly well kept magic circle.

The next thing she might have noticed, was a small kid who couldn't have been more than five or six years old standing against the wall, arms holding it protectively as they looked at Luna with sheer terror. A book had been dropped on the floor on the ground not far away from them.

[b]"Wah! Demon!"[/b]

As fast as their legs could carry them, they ran up some stairs likely leading out of wherever Luna was.

[color=yellow]"Uggh.  It's so dark down here, a bit musty too."[/color]  Luna said as she brought a finger up and whispered, [color=yellow]"Lux."[/color]  She found it easier to cast spells if she vocalized what she wanted.  At her words, a small light appeared at her fingertip, illuminating the room a bit more.  She didn't want to really mess anything up, even if she was called a demon.

The Knightess made her way up towards where the person ran, and followed the same route, hoping to catch up. . .  [color=yellow]"I hope this doesn't get much worse."[/color] The girl sighed as she reached the top of the steps and extinguished her light.

[b]"B-but there was a demon down there! Honest!"[/b]

[b]"And I'm telling you you're exaggerating."[/b] The second voice sounded much older, and definitely male. When Luna opened the door at the top of the stairs, she would be greeted by much less musty smelling air. Light illuminated the interior, making it quite visible she was in a shop of some sorts. Glass jars filled with various liquids and other...things, lined the shelves. Parts of various animals seemed to hang on the walls as well, with more dried plants hanging from the ceiling. An aged man was sitting in a chair behind the counter, the child from earlier hiding protectively behind him, glaring at Luna.

[b]"See? Not a demon."[/b] The man continued with a grunt. [b]"...she might have been sent by a demon though. That witch Livia send you?"[/b]

[color=yellow]"Witch?"[/color] Luna started to question but shook her head, moving onto business.  [color=yellow]"Yes, Liv-- The Headmistress sent me to look for a friend of hers, or something of the sort."[/color]  The Knightess looked at the child glare at her and gave a bit of a smile. [color=yellow]"Sorry if I've scared you."[/color]

[b]"Friend?"[/b] The older man echoed, rubbing his chin seeming to think for a bit. The kid, though, seemed to simply look at Luna with a look of suspicion, though they weren't hiding behind the older man any more and rather comically pointed at Luna.

[b]"Humans don't pop out of nowhere! Demon!"[/b]

[b]"Charlotte, that's enough."[/b] The man replied, giving the kid, apparently named Charlotte a small whack on the head. [b]"If it's her old 'friend' you're visiting, you're gonna be wanting to head southeast. There's a stable at the end of the road here...you'll probably be able to get a horse there. It's a bit of a way's away."[/b]

Charlotte seemed to still stare up at Luna with suspicion, but said nothing else.

[b]"Hrm...Charlotte here can show you there."[/b] At this, Charlotte shot a look of betrayal over to the old man. [b]"You've done nothing but laze about for a week. Make yourself useful, brat."[/b] He shrugged rather nonchalantly, not even hearing any protests she might have had. [b]"If that's all, then get out of my shop. I don't entertain window shoppers."[/b]

Luna started to say something, but decided against it. Something about rudeness is unbecoming a shopkeeper . . . Regardless, she looked at Charlotte, [color=yellow]"I would appriciate if you showed me where the stable is, Charlotte."[/color]

[b]"...okaaay."[/b] Charlotte replied rather enthusiastically, taking a few hesitant steps towards Luna, seeming somewhat more curious now for whatever reason though. She walked past the old man and headed to the front of the store, holding the door open for Luna.

[b]"Be back by nightfall, ya hear brat?"[/b]

Stepping outside, Luna was greeted with a cool, crisp morning air. The village was as one might expect. There were quite a few houses lining likely the major street in it. The shop Luna had just stepped out of had a sign hanging above it, though the letters were too faded to read clearly. Charlotte stood in front of the door and looked at Luna, cocking her head quizzically.

[b]"So your not a demon, huh?"[/b] She asked, still not really seeming to believe. [b]"B-but I read books! Saying that demons show up out of nowhere and kidnap children like me! If you're not here to kidnap me, then what are you here for?"[/b]

Luna giggled slightly at Charlotte, [color]"I'm definitely not a demon.  A friend of mine is much more a demon than I will ever be."[/color] Of course, she didn't need to mention she literally meant her friend was a demon.  [color=yellow]"It was just magic, well a magic scroll.  I can show you."[/color] Luna said as she stuck her right-hand index finger up.  

[color=yellow]"Lux."[/color]  With the word, a small ball of light popped into existence at the tip of her finger and she played around with it for a little bit showing there was no trick to it other than actual magic.

At the display of magic, Charlotte's eyes went wide. She had never actually seen a display of it before, despite having read quite a number of books on the subject already. She hopped closer to Luna, staring up at the knight with a clear look of admiration.

[b]"T-that was real! I could tell!"[/b] She rather loudly replied, obviously impressed. [b]"You're a mage, lady?"[/b]

[color=yellow]"I prefer Magic Knight myself, but it's not untrue."[/color] Luna said with a small giggle at how excited this girl was about magic.  To be fair, Luna was like that at one point when she figured out she had the ability for magic.  [color=yellow]"I'm a student at St. Sappho Academy and the Headmistress sent me out to deliver a message to her friend.  It's a bit odd to be sending a student away from their studies, but I'm fine with it."[/color]

[b]"That's so cool!"[/b] Charlotte replied, even more impressed. Magic Knight? Like a knight that could use both magic and a sword? [b]"Awww, whenever I use magic it just blows up in my face."[/b] She continued, pouting a bit. [b]"B-but that's fine! I'm learning alchemy. The uhm, potion making kind. I'm good at that!"[/b] Any hesitation Charlotte might have had about Luna seemed to have been completely gone now.

[b]"A-ah! Right the stables, uhm, they're this way."[/b] Charlotte said, walking off down the muddy street. It looked like it had recently rained. [b]"I know this town better than anyone else! You won't get...lost...uhm. Actually, its this way, heh~" [/b] She turned, starting to walk down the other way.

[color=yellow]"You know the town better than anyone else, do you?"[/color] Luna smiled.  She just hoped the girl didn't lead her to the part of town that was dangerous and filled with thugs.  Not every town had one of those, but it wasn't exactly uncommon.  [color=yellow]"Very well, I'll trust you then, Charlotte."[/color]

[b]"Yeah, I've lived here my whole life! That's uhm...Seven years!"[/b] She replied, seemingly proud that she was seven years old. [b]"I know where I'm going." [/b]

The trek didn't take too long, and with Charlotte leading the way the reached their destination with few detours and interruptions. The stables were clean, and well kept and the horses looked fairly well taken care of. As soon as they walked up, they were greeted brightly by a woman with dark hair, wearing some fairly messy clothes, indicating she had probably been outside working awhile. A man dressed in a fairly similar manner was filling the horses troughs with food.

[b]"Well hello there."[/b] She replied with a smile. [b]"Here to pester the horses some more, Charlotte?"[/b]

[b]"N-no!"[/b] She quickly replied. [b]"Lady here wants to get a horse."[/b] The woman looked over to Luna, seeming to be somewhat surprised.

[b]"Well fancy that. Not every day we get a traveler around here...got a weird one passing through a couple of days ago, but a proper respectable looking knight is a rarity. Need a horse then? Well, what ya looking for?"[/b]

[color=yellow]"Thank you for bringing me here Charlotte."[/color]  Luna said before turning back to the woman at the stables.  [color=yellow]"And yes, I needed a horse to head somewhere southeast of here.  I don't think it should take but a few days at worst."[/color]

Charlotte simply smiled at Luna.

[b]"Well, our horses can take you there."[/b] The woman replied. [b]"If ya want to buy one, they're not expensive...but you look like an honest sort. I'll let ya rent one if ya bring 'em back in once piece. The horses don't get to run out so much, makes 'em happy to get to run every now and then."[/b]

[color=yellow]"That would be much appriciated.  I don't think I could keep a horse easily back at the Academy."[/color]  Luna joked a bit with herself.  [color=yellow]"The Lightsword house is grateful."[/color]  Luna said as she reached into her coinpurse.  Rent still meant pay, but it would significantly cheaper.  [color=yellow]"How much do I owe you, fair miss?"[/color]

[b]"Well someone is good at flattery."[/b] The woman joked. [b]"For you, I'll let you have one pretty cheap.[/b]" The woman counted out the amount of money Luna owed her. It was definitely much cheaper than buying one would have been. After a brief, somewhat heated sounding discussion The man who had been feeding the horses brought one over, already saddling it and handing the reigns to Luna. [b]"Just make sure you bring her back in two or three days, ya hear?"[/b]

[color=yellow]"I'll bring her back before you know it."[/color]  Luna smiled after handing the money over.  She mounted the saddle and looked back at Charlotte.  [color=yellow]"Since I need to return the horse be sure to see me when I come back."[/color]

[b]"A-ah wait!"[/b] Charlotte ran after the knight, almost tripping over herself in the process. [b]"Let me come with you!"[/b] The small girl pleaded with the knight, eagerly looking up at the knight. [b]"Pleeeease?"[/b]

[color=yellow]"The man at the shop told you to be back by nightfall.  By time I get back it'll have been nightfall and again."[/color]  Luna said, looking at the child.  

Charlotte had expected such an answer, and she already had something prepared to counter that offer.

[b]"I-I have valuable information about this 'friend' of the witch ladies! If you don't take me with you, you won't know about it!"[/b] She gave Luna a determined look, likely she wasn't going to take no for an answer so easily on this matter. [b]"Besides, uh, I can handle myself! He'll be fine with it, promise!"[/b] Chances were, that was likely untrue by all means of the word. [b]"S-so please big sis, lemme come with you!"[/b]

Luna looked at the child and could tell the willpower behind them that children so often had.  Surely it would be much easier just to allow her to come.  [color=yellow]"And what information would that be?  Their favorite food?  I cannot in good faith as of now have you come with me, especially when I heard your caretaker tell you to be back by nightfall."[/color]  Of course, she knew reason was nothing to fight a child with.

Charlotte looked like she was almost about to cry. She pouted...and then jumped and latched onto Luna's leg, holding it surprisingly tightly for a kid her size.

[b]"Pleeeease lemme come with you! I can help, and I'll be good! promise! I don't wanna go back to that stinky old mans place! He's just gonna make me work."[/b] She was looking up at Luna with tearful eyes. Whether she was actually sad or just trying to use this to get a reaction out of Luna was impossible to tell clearly. [b]"A-and It's important! I'll only tell you if you take me with you!"[/b]

Luna sighed, this child didn't seem to want to stay in town.  She understood but still . . . She wasn't going to make any progress at this rate and couldn’t help but sigh as she came to an understanding of what she needed to do.  [color=yellow]”Fine.  I’ll allow it. However, I must set some rules.  The first is that you stay safe. Second, you hold onto me tightly as we ride.  We don’t need you to fall off.  The third, no complaining about us going fast.”[/color]  She’d much rather go by herself, but with this girl as she was, there was little else she could do about it.  And she wondered why children always got their way with parents.

As soon as Charlotte got the okay, she grinned brightly.

[b]"Thanks big sis!~"[/b] Charlotte shouted brightly. The child took a few moments to clamber onto the horse, obviously being a bit too short and somewhat inexperienced with riding. With some determination and a few moments though, Charlotte managed to climb onto the horse and wrapped her hands tightly around Luna's waist.

[b]"Don't worry, I'll be fine!~"[/b]

[color=yellow]"Alright, let's get going. I want to get there as soon as possible."[/color]  Luna said as she started the horse off slowly, wanting to get a feel for it before really getting into riding.

[hr]

The trip passed rather smoothly for the most part and Charlotte kept her promise, though when Luna first started to pick up the pace she nearly fell off. The trip had taken most of the day though, and thankfully they had run into few problems and the path there was over hills and plains making it for a smooth trip. Now with the sun setting, the pair was only a few minutes away from their destination. In the distance a small mountain stood, covered thick with trees. Very likely that was the mountain that Livia's friend was in.

However, at the foot of the mountain was what looked like to be ruins. Old, definitely. At least a few hundred years by the looks of it. Likely used to be a large city as well, if the size and span of the ruins were anything to go by. Charlotte, for the most part didn't seem to concerned with either of these things and was merely looking up at Luna with bright eyes, as if awaiting instruction or something to do.

[color=yellow]"This is the place I'll assume."[/color] Luna said as she looked the area over.  Nothing out of the ordinary other than the ruins.  [color=yellow]"Stay close, Charlotte.  I'll give us light. Lux."[/color]  She created a light at her fingertip again and started moving forward carefully. Just in case.

[b]"I think it is. That witch lady came by a lot last year. I overheard her talking a lot with old man Rald."[/b] Charlotte replied, still holding on tightly to Luna's waist. [b]"Said something...something about this used to being a...well off town before it was destroyed in the crusades."[/b] Charlotte twisted her head towards the ruins, a small shiver running down her spine. [b]"Said it was burned...and there weren't any survivors..."[/b] Charlotte's head turned towards the ground. The place was obviously creeping the small girl out a little. The fact the sun was setting and the sun was casting long shadows made it natural to assume this place might be a bit unsettling at night.

[b]"U-uhm! Anyways. A-about the thing. I overheard with lady and Rald talking about her friend. Said she gets [i]really[/i] cranky when she's woken up! She said, she said, last time it happened she almost blew a hole in the side of that mountain."[/b] Charlotte had turned and looked up at Luna again, giving her a serious look. [b]"I-if you're going there, be careful! Big sis getting hurt would be bad!"[/b]

[color=yellow]"It's fine, Charlotte.  I'm a Magic Knight. I'll protect you and myself."[/color]  Luna said, though she needed to quickly tack that last part on.  She wasn't all to sure what they would see as they continued on into the ruins.  Still, one part did worry her.  Did Charlotte just say that Livia's friend blasted a hole into the side of a mountain.  [color=yellow]"Besides, if she's a friend of the headmistress, she can't be all too bad of a person."[/color]  To be honest though, Luna wasn't sure if she was trying to convince Charlotte or herself.

The light from Luna's spell eventually illuminated something that seemed very recent in one of the more intact ruined buildings, and very much like whoever was there had only left moments ago. A fire pit that looked recently used, plus a few empty backpacks. All of it was evidence that someone had very recently had come through here, and could perhaps still be nearby. Charlotte peered at the makeshift campsite, still holding tightly to Luna.

[b]"U-uhm...L-luna?"[/b] Charlotte questioned somewhat nervously. There was no telling that this was the camp of some bad person of course, but Charlotte was a bit of a pessimistic child sometimes.

Luna looked over the site.  It definitely meant someone was here.  They could be archeologists or Treasure Hunters of some sort.  If this place had any valuables left, they might not for long.  If so, Luna wouldn't mess with them.  Otherwise they could be some sort of bandit camp, but it didn't seem as likely.  Many of the ones she had helped raid were a bit more reinforced.  [color=yellow]"I doubt those belong to the Headmistress' friend, so I think we should just move on and not disturb it."[/color]  Despite her words, she drew her sword. Just in case.

[b]"O-okay..."[/b] Charlotte said quietly. She wasn't moving from Luna's side anytime soon, nope. It was getting late and by the time they reached the cave where this 'friend' lived, it was very likely going to be night time. At least it was a clear night with no clouds in the sky, but the ruins were getting even creepier and the small child wanted to get out of there pretty quickly.

Eventually, the pair would leave the ruins. The mountain was a short walk away, an old worn path leading them directly to it and the cave entrance. It was large, much larger than what most caverns formed by natural means would be. In fact, it looked decidedly man made - or at least men had worked on this cavern before to make it more accessible. When they arrived, Charlotte peered into the cave from behind Luna.

[b]"...the friend lives in there? Why would they live in a cave? It seems...spooky."[/b]

[color=yellow]"She could be a hermit.  I've heard stories about people like that.  Though, the ones like that tend to be cool-tempered monks that let go of all worldly possessions and in no way blow a hole in a mountain because they were awoke."[/color]  Luna mused to herself.  Still, now was no time to worry too much.  Luckily, there was a small post to the side she could tie the horse to after her and the girl dismounted.  [color=yellow]The cave is no place for a horse.  We'll have to leave her behind for now.  Come with me, Charlotte.  We'll deliver the letter and then set up a camp for the night."[/color]

As the pair of girls approached, a brown haired woman in her thirties was walking out, a loud jingling sound coming from her person, although it was clear she was trying to walk slowly.  Seeing two others there, the woman seemed stunned, reaching into the leather jacket she was wearing as if searching for something.

Charlotte, immediately hid behind Luna as the older woman approached.

[b]"...is this the hermit? She looks like a scary old witch hag."[/b] She may have been pessimistic, but at least she could snark a demon to death probably.

Luna held an arm out, wanting Charlotte to be silent if she were to be insulting someone like.  [color=yellow]"Identify yourself, are you an acquaintance of Livia Fiore?"[/color] She had to ask.  The backpacks probably belonged to her. . . And whatever group she was with. 

The woman responded with surprising speed.  [b]"I am a ... reasearcher!  Yes, I've been studying the resident here, truly a facinating beast!  Although I do not know of who you speak of, unfortuantly"[/b]  The woman approached Luna, as if extremely confident in herself.  [b]"My name is Minerva.  But now you must tell me of youself - would be a shame if I didn't get to know you better, wouldn't it?"[/b]  A wink was tossed into the conversation.

Charlotte didn't seem to take Luna's warning seriously, and glared at this Minerva person.

[b]"You're really suspicious old lady."[/b]

As much as Luna would like to disagree. . .  [color=yellow]"My name is Lunalel Lightsword. . . Minerva, what do you mean by 'a facinating beast'?  I was told a friend of a friend was suppose to be here."[/color]

The woman blinked a few times, taken off guard by the young girl's accusations and the older one's utter lack of knowledge.  [b]"... The Dragon ...?"[/b]  The 'researcher' suddenly started wondering what exactly was going on here.

Charlotte's eyes went wide. A dragon? Here? Did she hear the woman right? That was...so cool! She wanted to see a dragon ever since her parents told her stories of one! She looked to the cave entrance, contemplating making a run for it inside the cave, but she had promised Luna she would behave...

[color=yellow]"A dragon?"[/color] Luna questioned back.  At first, she was confused.  That seemed like it would have been pertinent information to have. Though, Livia seemed to be a person to laugh at other's misfortune when she was in a good mood.  In fact, she laughed specially at Luna's dragon comment earlier.  [color=yellow]"I have a feeling."[/color]  Luna said with a sigh.  [color=yellow]"Can you take us to the dragon?"[/color] The Knightess asked Minerva.

The woman seemed a little nervous about this, but shook her head for now.  [b]"The dragon just fell back asleep after the talk I had with her ... I advise you stay away for now as well ..."[/b]  This advice seemed honest at least.  To Minerva, the idea of trying to talk to a dragon was simply suicidal, no matter one's intent.

[color=yellow]"If she is who I think she is, then I will need to talk to her anyhow.  She can't probably be too asleep."[/color] Luna said as she looked Minerva.  [color=yellow]"If you won't guide me, then we'll go in ourselves."[/color]  She motioned for Charlotte to follow her.

Charlotte followed after Luna, glancing back at Minerva. 

[b]"Bye suspicious old hag lady!~"[/b]

The lady waved them goodbye and walked off.  [b]"Be safe!"[/b]

The cavern was large, large enough for even a fully grown dragon to move comfortably in. If it wasn't for Luna's light spell, it would have been fairly dark as well. Thankfully though it seemed like there were no splitting paths, and it was a fairly quick straight walk to wherever the dragon was sleeping. The smooth stone of the cavern seemed almost as if it was almost carved by human hands for some reason or another. After a few minutes of walking, the duo finally seemed to reach the central cavern, quiet clanking of metal under their feet perhaps indicating they were walking on something other than stone.

The place was massive. It was at least four stories to the ceiling, and a small crack in the stone let moonlight filter through. Surprisingly it was lit quite well by seemingly recently lamps hanging on the cavern wall, likely more recent additions. Against the back wall, one could even see what...looked like stone slabs with writing carved into it. Words were difficult to make out from the entrance, but from the number ceremonial items, flowers, and a few other things laid over it seemed perhaps it was a grave of some sorts. Towards another wall, was another passage leading deeper into the cavern.

The most eye drawing thing though, was the massive creature sleeping in the center of the room. It was a dragon, or at least looked to be one. It was large, at least the size of a house, likely almost two stories tall if it was at full height. Oddly enough, however, it seemed it did not have scales. Its was covered in a tough, white hide that in a few places had painful looking burns on it. Two large, intimidating horns curved backwards along its head, one broken. Two more jutted out vertically. Its wings were tucked against its side, small holes being torn near the edges of them, the thin membranes seemed to be tattered somewhat. Its tail was curled around its body, in an almost protective fashion. It was sleeping on what looked to be a large stone slab, a pile of valuable items and other trinkets surrounding the creature, and its breathing seemed to be ragged and short.

Charlotte simply stared at it, wide eyed.

Luna wasn't too sure how to go about waking a dragon.  Yelling at it to wake up? Poking at it?  Well, if this one blew a hole in the mountain because it woke up, Luna decided caution might be good here.  She used her magic to create a barrier of light in front of her and Charlotte, beckoning the small girl behind her.  Oddly, the bigger spell was easier to use than it's smaller version.  [color=yellow]"Dragon! Headmistress Livia Fiore sends me here to bring you a message.[/color]  

Charlotte did as she was told, and hid behind Luna's legs. She couldn't resist peeking though.

Luna's shouting seemed to have its intended effect as well. The dragon growled, placing a claw over its head as if annoyed that it had been woken. It cracked one of its eyes open, red eye glaring at the one that had woken it, seeming to study Luna and the small child for a second before muttering something to herself and closing its eye again.

After a few seconds the dragon rose from where it lay, rising to a sitting position as it glared down at the human.

[color=aba000]"You...!"[/color] Its voice was loud and overbearing, but seemed somewhat strained. [color=aba000]"You...trespass on the graves of those long gone. What business do you dare have here?"[/color] It seemed perhaps that the dragon perhaps didn't entirely hear Luna's complete introduction. [color=aba000]"Art thou grave robbers? I will not let you defile this tomb with your thieving kind!"[/color] It swiveled its head around the room, as if inspecting it as it waited for Luna to reply.

[color=yellow]"I am no grave robber.  I am Lunalel Lightsword, daughter of the Lord Lightsword. I've come here to deliver a letter to you from the Headmistress of St. Sappho Academy, Livia Fiore."[/color] Luna repeated herself, hoping the dragon would listen to her.  She'd hate for it to think she was a grave robber.  As a show of faith and to keep her reserve of magic high, she lowered her shield for now.  [color=yellow]"I will only both you so long as to deliver this letter and have your reply."[/color]

It turned to look at her, its long neck curving slightly, gazing at Luna as if judging the validity of those words. For a few moments, it seemed as if the dragon believed her. Its claws took a step forward, grazing some of the numerous trinkets on the ground and knocking a golden chalice off of the pile and causing it to fall to the floor below. The dragon turned its head to the piece, before gently picking it up with a claw.

...and then crushing it. It turned its head swiftly to Luna and Charlotte, its maw turning into a terrifying frown, revealing a row of incredibly sharp teeth that could likely cut trough even steel. It hissed loudly, slamming its claw and the fake piece of treasure onto the ground causing the entire cavern to shake slightly from the force.

[color=aba000]"Lies! Thieves! You are nothing but a Liar and a Thief!"[/color] The voice was loud, and the dragon was very clearly angry. [color=aba000]"Return it! Return what you stole immediately! I won't let you defile this place of rest!"[/color]

The dragons maw opened, and Luna would only have a few seconds to react as electricity arced around the dragon, a powerful blast of electricity shooting from its maw right towards Luna.

[color=yellow]"Damnit!"[/color]  Luna yelled out of suprise, she threw her shield back up as quickly as she could.  It blocked all but the first bit of the lightning breath, which struck her breastplate, and mostly disappated, but still shocked her a little bit.  [color=yellow]"Gaah!"[/color]  She screamed mostly from shock.  [color=yellow]"Charlotte,"[/color]  Luna said after her voiced pain, [color=yellow]"Run back towards the horse.  I've never fought a creature I couldn't best with a little though, I'll be fine."[/color] She said, as if trying to ease the girl's thoughts.  

She pushed the girl gently towards the passageway right behind them as she lowered her shield wall and pulled her sword out.  Luck was on her side, as the dragon seemed to have lost most of it's natural armor.  [color=yellow]"I'll tell you, I'm not thief!  You're Livia's friend are you not?!  I was sent to deliver a message to you and that is all! I swear it on the name of Lightsword!"[/color]

Charlotte, was absolutely terrified. No way in hell was she staying around here where the dragon was. She may have liked exploring, but conflict? Nope, she was 100% coward. By the time Luna had told her to head back to the horse, she had already noped out of there and was ten feet away back in the cave entrance. She was worried about Luna, certainly, but...she wasn't strong. She couldn't use magic or a sword. She'd only get in the way.

The dragon didn't seem to hear anything. Luna was saying.

[color=aba000]"No...You lie! Livia...would have come herself..."[/color] The dragon shook its head, clutching it with a claw as if it was in pain. [color=aba000]"S-she wouldn't...leave...me alone..."[/color] The dragon slammed its claw back into the ground, opening its maw with a thunderous roar that seemed to cause the very heavens to boom with thunder and crackle with lightning. Her wings flourished back greatly, spanning almost the entire cave. [color=aba000]"You will die by the Radiant King of the Heavens, thief!"[/color]

The dragon leaped forwards, swiping its powerful claws towards Luna. In such a space, there wasn't much room for the dragon to move freely, but despite its injuries it still seemed incredibly agile.

If nothing else, Luna got her confirmation that this indeed was the individual she was looking for.  [color=yellow]"I'm sure she would normally, but she's got this mentally traumatized girl she needs to take care of."[/color]  Luna said as she dodged into the dragon's swipe and took a swing at it's hide from the side.  It might not cut very well with a simple longsword, but it should do something.  She was glad she wasn't wearing heavy armor for this.  [color=yellow]"If I must subdue you, I shall, Dragon!"[/color]

Whatever Luna was saying, the dragon didn't hear. The blade cut shallowly into the dragons flesh, red blood oozing out of the wound. It may not have had scales any more, but its hide was still thick, tough, and incredibly difficult to cut cleanly. Unfortunately for Luna, The dragon didn't seem to even notice the injury. The dragon moved swiftly to the side, putting some small distance between it and the human, giving her only moments to react as it turned to face Luna. It's jaws opened, teeth aimed to swallow Luna whole. Should she dodge, the followed it up with a quick bash with the side of her head.

Luna brought up her Light Aegis in time to stop the dragon for a little bit.  Either she'd hate to damage it enough, or go around.  It gave her time to summon up one of her few offensive spells.  [color=yellow]"O' Noble Light, join my hand and together we may smite evil!"[/color] The Knightess said as a huge blade of light appeared above her head. [color=yellow]"Bright Blade!"[/color] As she said that, the handle looking part of the blade touched her hand.  She lowered her Aegis and took a spin with her lightblade, slamming the magic weapon into the side of the dragon's head toward the nearest wall.  Taking the small bit of time the dragon would took staggered from the blow, she used the last bit of time of her blade to deliver an overhead hit to the dragon's face.  Sadly, the blade could not hold out much longer due to Luna's skill (or lack thereof).  Now she really needed the dragon to yield.

Sorcha's head hit the wall, the force of it causing the entire room to shudder slightly. The next thing, she knew was pain, but that was something she had grown used too. It was nothing compared to the horrible sensation of being burned alive, day after day, months and years. The blade struck her head, the wound causing a steady stream of blood to ooze out of the wound and drip down her muzzle. The dragon recoiled backwards, roaring in obvious discomfort as it flailed, striking at everything around it with its claws as it put distance between it and the human.

It didn't seem that it was enough to make the dragon submit, but it was definitely hurting.

[color=aba000]"H-human...You..."[/color] It stumbled, shaking its head weakly. [color=aba000]"Will return it...please, I beg of you..."[/color] If she was fighting a noble warrior such as this, then she had to remember her place as one. [color=aba000]"I can't let you take it...it was theirs..."[/color] Electricity danced across the dragons body coalescing at her claws, and she slammed it to the ground. A blast of electricity raced across the floor, straight towards Luna, and with each swipe another followed.

[color=yellow]"I have some gold-- Damnit."[/color]  Luna didn't even finish her sentence as she rushed away from the electrical shockwaves on the ground. [color=yellow]"I have gold, but it's the gold I brought myself! Not yours!"[/color]  Luna said as she raced across the area.  The bad thing about footing in here, was that there was a lot of places one could misstep and take a spill. That very thing happened to Luna as she stumbled on something and fell forward, skidding a little bit, just as the dragon sent off it's last bit of electrictiy.  

Her right foot was further back than her left, and was in the pathway of the electricity.  To put it simply, it hurt like hell.  Luna screamed from the pain and odd feeling in her leg.  After a few seconds of pain, she pulled herself forward.  She hadn't expected that.  At least she knew what it felt like to be shocked by lightning.  That numb-feeling like when you lay on your arm too long, just without being able to move it.  [color=yellow]"Nononononono."[/color] Luna said, fearfully.  She rushed and to use her healing magic on her leg, hoping to restore feeling. Even if she tried to run, her leg would drag limply behind her.  [color=yellow]"F-f-first ai-aid."[/color]  It seemed the shock even messed with the rest if her body a little too.  She only hoped she could restore feeling before the dragon did something horrid.

Luna had just enough time to briefly heal before the dragon moved towards the Knight, quickly closing the distance that had been created earlier. It raised its claw, and [i]slammed[/i] it onto Luna. Thankfully for the Knight, it seemed as though the hit was incredibly weak, likely weakened by both fatigue and the earlier wound. It followed with a second strike. Three times. Four times. Each hit was weaker than the one before, but it was a devastating move. Upon the fifth strike, the dragon roared and dragged its claw across the ground, slamming it into Luna. It was clear the dragon was losing its strength, and couldn't fight much longer in its current state.

The damage was intense.  Never before had she been hit by a creature hitting this hard.  It likely wasn't at full strength either, since Luna wasn't completely crushed by the end of slamming into a wall.  She probably had some internal injuries and her armor was crushed. . . She'd need to visit a blacksmith to fix this.  Still, she could feel her foot again. . . A little, but enough to move.  Then she felt something drip down her face.  Blood.  Not wanting to take a chance, she healed her head lightly. The dizziness was gone at least now and she turned to the dragon again.  Hopefully, all she needed was one last shot.  She picked up something from the ground nearby and threw it at the dragon, hoping it would goad the giant creature into charging again.  If not, she might just have to charge at it.

The thrown object slammed right into the dragons head, impacting it right on the wound Luna had given her not moments before. The dragon roared in pain, clutching its head, dizziness overcoming the creature as its already weakened vitality caught up with it. It had to finish this quickly. It didn't have much time left. It swayed, shaking off the pain it was feeling and after a few seconds finally managed to fix Luna with a glare.

With a roar, it lunged towards the human, claws reached out to prevent any escape from the charge.

She didn't have the time or energy to use her Bright Blade again.  She lost her sword when she took the last hit, so the only thing she could think to do was to charge into the dragon's rush with her more easily made Light Aegis.  If nothing else, it looked like the dragon was about to keel over too.  With whatever power she had, she charged into the dragon with an oversized shield of light, yelling out a warcry as the two moved closer and closer and eventually collided.  The impact sent Luna backwards, though the shield helped her from taking a full impact with the wall.

The dragon slammed into the shield of light, the force stopping its lunge right in its tracks. It fell to the ground, weakened legs struggling to support itself, hissing weakly as it tried to crawl its way towards Luna. Before it could take more than two steps though, its legs gave out and it fell to the ground with a thud, unable to move a single muscle in its weakened body. Its breathing was ragged and shallow, wheezing painfully as it tried to regain its strength.

[color=yellow]"Are you going to calm down now?"[/color] Luna had to ask, struggling to keep concious.  She used the last of her magic power to heal some of her more serious wounds. . . Not that they'd fully heal, but it would be better than before.  [color=yellow]"I still need to give you this letter."[/color]

Seeing the battle was mostly over with, Charlotte came running out of the hallway, and slammed onto Luna's leg hugging it tightly. She looked up at the knight, eyes bright with both worry and excitement.

[b]"That was awesome!"[/b] The child exclaimed. [b]"Y-you defeated that mean old dragon!"[/b]

The dragon took a moment to answer, its wheezing breaths indicating that it was probably not in the best of shapes.

[color=aba000]"I...Forgive me, human..."[/color] It finally replied, voice strained with obvious exertion. [color=aba000]"It...seems in my sickened state I caused you trouble."[/color] The scaleless dragon pulled its head from its resting place, using what energy it could to angle it so she could look at Luna. [color=aba000]"And...you'll have to forgive me once again...I fear that even if I were to read it I would be of no help to Livia in my current state."[/color] The dragon heaved, coughing before it could finish its thought. [color=aba000]"This...curse of mine has done its job quite well...I am in no condition to travel, let alone be playing scary dragon fighting a gallant knight."[/color] She laughed weakly at that statement.

[color=yellow]"I have no idea what's in the letter.  Read it. . ."[/color]  Luna said as she pulled out the letter and handed it to Charlotte.  [color=yellow]"My legs do not want to move, if you could be a dear, Charlotte, I'd appriciate it if you took the letter over there.  It shouldn't attack."[/color]  Luna said as she practically pushed the letter onto the child.  [color=yellow]"I might just go take a nap here."[/color] Luna said as she set her head down and closed her eyes.

Charlotte looked up at Luna, then to the dragon.

[b]"B-but..."[/b] Charlotte looked back up at Luna, deciding if she was brave enough to approach the dragon. She didn't get much time to protest, however. Luna looked exhausted, that was something even the child could understand. So Charlotte took the letter, and hesitantly approached the dragon.

[color=aba000]"...Did I scare you child?"[/color] The dragon asked weakly as Charlotte's hesitant steps carried her in front of the dragon. [color=aba000]"Haha...Apologies. If you could, hold the letter for me?"[/color] The small girl quickly opened the letter, holding it at arms length away from the dragon. For a few minutes, the dragon read it in silence. It was difficult to read such a small piece of paper as a large creature, but she was used to it. Not something she couldn't do. After a few minutes, she hummed, looking over to the unconscious Knight.

[color=aba000]"...she wants me to come to Sappho, then."[/color] She mused to herself. Using her remaining strength she pushed herself up to a more comfortable resting position. [color=aba000]"...child. In that cave...there is a bed...I cannot do much in my state...but use that bed to rest if you wish. It is night and travel is dangerous."[/color]

Charlotte immediately jumped back over to Luna, however. The dragon simply closed its eyes with a tired sigh, likely exhausted. It placed its head on her claws, and was soon asleep. The human was likely fine, and she needed some much needed rest after that exertion.

[hr]

[center][h3]~Day Eleven, Sorcha's Cave~[/h3][/center]

The next morning came swiftly enough. Charlotte, for the most part had stayed next to Luna most of the night. It was fairly obvious the child was concerned for Luna and didn't want to leave her side so much. However, the child's curiosity got the best of her, and by the time morning came she had walked over to the sleeping dragon, and started climbing on her. The dragon had taken to sleeping where she had fallen as well, unable to force her body to move any more than she already had. Thankfully though, by the next morning Luna wouldn't have to deal with the possibility of waking her again. A loud roar like yawn echoed through the cave as the dragon woke, the previous nights exhaustion still affecting the dragon. The wound Luna had given her head had stopped bleeding for the most part, but it would likely be awhile before it completely healed.

This caused Charlotte to slip, falling off the dragon and landing on the ground below. Charlotte simply attempted to scramble away as the dragon woke making more than a little noise herself in the process. The dragon easily heard the commotion, turning her head to the sound. She seemed to smile softly at Charlotte before speaking.

[color=aba000]"No need to be frightened, my child."[/color] It spoke, voice warm and somewhat motherly, though it was still strained and tired. [color=aba000]"I haven't eaten a human in a long time."[/color] Charlotte simply paled at that statement, and scrambled back over to Luna.

[b]"B-big siiiis dragon lady says she's gonna eat meeee..."[/b] She started gently shaking Luna.

[color=aba000]"I said nor implied no such thing."[/color] She huffed. [color=aba000]"I simply said I haven't eaten one in a long time...though I am admittedly somewhat hungry..."[/color]

[b]"Big sis I don't wanna be dragon fooood..."[/b]

It was probably clear the dragon was pestering Charlotte on purpose.

[color=yellow]"What. . .?"[/color] Luna muttered as she woke up from Charlotte nudging her.  [color=yellow]"Don't eat each other, have a maid make you breakfast."[/color]  She was obviously out of it, but she wouldn't go back to sleep.  In fact, she felt her head ache a bit.  It was like she had been slammed against a wall. . . Actually, that did happen.  She pushed herself up as she tried to think about what was happening.  Then she saw the dragon and remembered everything.  [color=yellow]"Wish you could have went a little bit easy on me there."[/color] She joked a bit, knowing the dragon seemed weakened already.  There was no way she could fight a full-strength dragon as she was.

The dragon lowered its head towards the ground, laughing lightly. Charlotte for the most part was hiding behind Luna again, though she didn't seem too put off by the dragon and was looking up at the creature with a mix of curiosity and some fear still. 

[color=aba000]"I should say the same to you, Knight."[/color] It was obvious she was speaking of the wound she had been given on her head. [color=aba000]"Standing against and even injuring a dragon as weakened as I, is no easy feat."[/color] The dragon stopped laughing, shaking its head. In truth, she couldn't remember much of what happened the previous night. It was all a...haze, a series of events that didn't seem to make much sense to the dragon but she understood that she was in the wrong here and for that she should at least apologize.

[color=aba000]"Allow me to once again express my apologies for my behavoir last night. I had no reason to assume you were the thief, quite the opposite in fact."[/color] She sighed, resting her head on the ground, seeming weary.

[color=yellow]"So long you understand now.  I have my doubts that I could fight you again."[/color]  Luna said as she judged where some of her greatest pain was and used healing magic to ease the pain a bit.  [color=yellow]"Not that I wish to pry, but what was in that letter for you?  Something important I hope."[/color] Well, even if it wasn't, she could say she's fought an actual dragon now.

The dragon lifted its head again, studying the human silently for a few quiet moments. She couldn't inform her of the full contents of the letter. That was a private matter between her and Livia. However, one thing she was certain of was that Livia wanted her at Sappho for some reason or another. That said, she was in no condition to travel and likely wouldn't be for some undetermined amount of time. She barely had enough energy to hunt some days.

[color=aba000]"Straight to business I see...It was indeed, important. I thank you for bringing it."[/color] The dragon began, voice turning somewhat unsure. [color=aba000]"But before that...perhaps it is a bit out of place for me to ask at the moment, but human, would you be willing to do be a favor? It is nothing difficult, I assure you and it requires no fighting big scary dragons at all."[/color] The dragon seemed rather amused at calling herself a 'big scary dragon' for some reason.

[color=yellow]"If I can assist in my current state."[/color]  Luna said, continuing to heal a bit.  If nothing else, she wouldn't feel too much pain though she definitely would look into a real healer as soon as she returned to Sappho.  

[color=yellow]"But before that, I think we should share names.  My name is Lunalel Lightsword, a pleasure if you ignore the trampling I suppose."[/color]  She managed a smile.  [color=yellow]"And this is Charlotte."[/color]  Luna said as she looked over to the young girl before turning her attention back to the dragon.

For now, Charlotte still seemed rather conflicted on actually getting near the dragon or not. The dragon didn't seem to mind much though, and instead simply smiled at the both of them.

[color=aba000]"A pleasure indeed, Lunalel, Charlotte. And do not worry, My favor will not require you even leaving this grave."[/color] The dragon bowed its head with a chuckle, draping a tattered wing over her head as she did so, mimicking a bow a human might have done. [color=aba000]"As for my introduction..."[/color] She had an image to keep, after all. She was a dragon - likely one of the oldest and most powerful ones. A simple introduction was not something she was about to give. Instead, the dragon raised itself to a sitting position, proudly looking down at Luna from her full height. Her wings rested against her sides, and despite her tired, tattered and weakened state the dragon suddenly gave off a regal air.

[color=aba000]"I am The Radiant King of the Heavens."[/color] Her voice had turned to one that carried a hint of arrogance in it. The warm and friendly tone she had earlier was gone in almost an instant. [color=aba000]"Knight...am I correct in assuming you do not have a familiar?"[/color]

[color=yellow]"You would be correct in your assumption."[/color]  Luna said, feeling better from treatment.  She was still going to take it easy for the moment, but that was for good measure.  [color=yellow]"Why do you want to know?"[/color]  Why would a dragon of all things be asking that question?  It was a bit silly, but Luna was nothing if not ears for now.

[color=aba000]"Then my favor and request is simple. Take me as your familiar."[/color] Her tone of voice indicated that perhaps this was less of a request then she was making it out to be. After all, this human would be foolish to turn down such an offer on all accounts. Aside from being a dragon, she was [i]the[/i] Radiant King of the Heavens. If this girl knew anything about history at all her name should have at least come up once or twice...or at least, tales regarding her should have. Judging from her lack of reaction from her introduction though, she was likely not well versed in history.

[color=yellow]"A dragon as a familiar?  I can't say I imagined this day going like this."[/color] If it was even the same day though a quick look to the crack in the wall showed it was daylight out now.  [color=yellow]"If that is your request, then I believe it can help both of us then."[/color]  Luna had been considering getting a familiar, but well, a Knight such as herself could not ask for a better one than a dragon.  [color=yellow]"Now then, how do we go about this?"[/color]  Luna had hardly an idea how to make a creature into a familiar, and was hoping the dragon would.

[color=aba000]"It is simple. I swear fealty to serve you, and you will promise to feed me whenever I wish to be fed."[/color] She would have had 'polish' her scales onto that, but in her current state she had very few of those to polish.

[b]"...I bet you just like eating."[/b] Charlotte replied quietly. If it was possible for a dragon's face to turn red with embarrassment, the dragons would likely have been red as a tomato.

[color=aba000]"T-that's not true at all, child. I am a dragon. I must eat quite a bit to maintain my impressive abilities."[/color] Charlotte narrowed her eyes at the dragon, obviously not buying it.

[color=yellow]"Very well, I believe I can help feed you."[/color] Luna said as she looked at the dragon.  [color=yellow]"Though it must take a lot to keep your body moving."[/color] Luna said.

[color=aba000]"Very well then." [/color]  Despite the formality of her voice, the dragon seemed more than a little happy with the offer of being fed without having to work for it. She held a claw out towards, Luna, seeming to want her to take it.

[color=aba000]"I, Sorcha Ó Maoilriain pledge to serve Lunalel Lightsword of the Lightsword house."[/color]

[color=yellow]"I, Lunalel Lightsword of the Lightsword House, pledge to feed. . . Sorcha Ó Maoilriain whatever it is she desires."[/color] Luna said after standing and taking the dragon's claw.

As soon as the words had been spoken, there was an intense burst of electricity that came from the dragon, but Luna wouldn't find it to be harmful in any manner. Charlotte, deciding whatever this was she didn't want any part of, had already noped to a few yards away from Luna and the dragon. Seconds later, there was a bright flash of light. The process was incredibly short, lasting for more than a few seconds, but there was a key difference in the room that Luna would very much notice. The distinct lack of a dragon. Instead, standing where it had been moments before, was a rather well endowed woman.

Who was completely naked.

She was tall, standing at least almost six feet. Long blond hair fell to the womans back, her skin smooth and free of any blemishes. She looked distinctly...human, if it wasn't for the two horns poking out of her head, piercing red eyes and the same tattered wings the dragon had that extended from her back. A long, white flexible tail extended from her waist.

[color=aba000]"Hm. It has been awhile since I took the form of a human."[/color] She commented, seeming to not take much notice of Luna for the moment. [color=aba000]"As expected, it is much less tiring to be in this form already."[/color] She seemed to do a quick inspection of her body, giving Luna an accidental show in the process, but she didn't seem to care. After a few seconds she turned her head back to Luna, giving her a small somewhat impish smile.

[color=aba000]"...so where's the food?~"[/color]

At first, Luna flinched from the electricity.  She wasn't expecting it, but much less what was coming next.  A naked and very pretty woman. . . Just, with horns, tail and a pair of wings.  She was looking at her own body, and it was obvious that this was that dragon.  Then she smiled at Luna and asked for food.  [color=yellow]"I-I umm, o-outside."[/color] Luna said while averting her attention slightly, peeking occasionally to make sure she wasn't just seeing things.  [color=yellow]"It's outside on the horse.  Maybe find you some clothes too.  It's not decent to be naked."[/color]

[color=aba000]"Huh? Decency? But I'm a dragon, I don't normally wear clothes."[/color] She smiled, obviously amused at the suggestion, voice taking an obviously teasing tone as she continued. [color=aba000]"Besides, You like what you see, don't you?~"[/color]

Luna wasn't all too sure what to say.  She couldn't let this train of thought be kept.  She ignored the teasing and went on to reply to the first part. [color=yellow]"Dragon or not, you look human now and humans are suppose to cover up their vital parts.[/color] The Knightess said with a blush and almost whispered that no one else should see it but decided against it.  

Sorcha had half a mind to continue with her teasing. It'd be funny at least. She hadn't had much amusement in the past few decades or so since she holed up here, and a shy little Knight was just the funniest thing to tease ever. Instead she offered a smile to Luna and a small chuckle.

[color=aba000]"Oh alright, I'll go put something on. I have something I usually wear in the back. Shouldn't take me long to get dressed. I expect a feast when I get back though~"[/color] With that, she started walking back towards the section of on the opposite wall of the entrance. And with the dragon gone, Charlotte finally decided to return from where she had decided to nope away too.

[b]"...What happened?"[/b] She looked up at Luna. Charlotte had some basic understanding of magic, but she didn't think a dragon would accept to be someone's familiar so..easily.

[color=yellow]"I think I remember the Headmistress mention one time that making someone a familiar helps them heal or gain energy.  She's probably making me a meal ticket too."[/color] Luna said, giving a small chuckle.  [color=yellow]"Well, I'll have to find a way to get her some food. Oh, and we need to get the horse back to town so those people at the stable don't think poorly of me."[/color]  She put her thumb to her lip in thought, they needed to get back to town soon.  It would probably be best to leave when her dragon partner got back.

[b]"Eh? You made a dragon your familiar? You're really cool big sis!"[/b] Charlotte replied, once again latching onto Luna's leg and looking up at the knight with bright eyes. [b]"Y-you're like one of them knights out of a book!"[/b]

Luna gave a little bit of an awkward smile and ruffled Charlotte's hair.  [color=yellow]"Well, I don't know about out of a book, but I am a Knight still."[/color]  Well, one way or another all's well that ends well.  [color=yellow]"I think sometimes it will be hard to differentiate the master and the familiar with her though."[/color]

[b]"You can do it, big sis!"[/b] Charlotte replied, giggled as her hair was ruffled. [b]"If anyone can show that mean old dragon who's boss, it's you!"[/b]

[color=aba000]"You know, talking about people like there not here is rather rude."[/color] Sorcha laughed softly as she walked up, having heard just the last bit of that conversation.

Surprisingly, it didn't take her long to get dressed, though her...'armor' was much less modest than Luna would have probably liked. It was colored in reds and golds, the entire thing looked to be made of only a few pieces of metal and cloth covering her chest and torso, but leaving a her midriff completely exposed. A belt holding a small cloth covering her left thigh was the only covering her upper legs had. On her arms, were gauntlets and a small single shoulder pad to protect her arms. On her legs she wore long metal boots, extending up to just below her thighs. In her hands, she gripped a rather impressive looking Glaive.

In all, the outfit was likely still considered less than modest and didn't leave much to the imagination.

[color=aba000]"I hope this armor is to your liking, Luna. I do hope I can call you that, right? And don't worry, I'll be perfectly behaved, promise~"[/color]

That wasn't exactly what Luna had in mind, but it was better than the nothing she had on before.  [color=yellow]"It's. . . It's fine.  That outfit will work for now."[/color]  The important thing is that the dragon-woman was covered up though Luna couldn't help but sigh at the outfit.  [color=yellow]"And please, do call me Luna. We'll have to get back to St. Sappho to give you a feast, but I did bring some food.  We'll eat something just to sustain ourselves once we get outside."[/color]

[color=aba000]"Well then, let us get going, shall we? I feel like I haven't eaten anything in ages."[/color] Sorcha replied. [color=aba000]"You'll have to lead the way though...I admittedly, have not been far out of this cave in some time so my knowledge of the surrounding lands is rather lacking."[/color]

[color=yellow]"Very well."[/color]  Luna said as she led the other two back outside to the horse.  Luckily, the horse was still there and Luna reached into her supply bag she had attached to the saddle and pulled out some food and a flask of water.  [color=yellow]"It's not too much, but I only planned for one person.  Hopefully, we all get to town by tonight or tomorrow morning."[/color]  She handed out some bread and salted jerky to the traveling group.

The dragon followed the Knight out of the cave. As Luna went to inspect the horse, she took a deep breath of the morning air, turning her head to the sky. It felt...nice to be out after so long. She shook her head though, such fanciful thoughts were not something she should have at the moment. Instead, she turned back to her new knight friend as she was handed some salted jerky.

Well. Wasn't exactly a feast. Her eyes turned to the horse, mouth watering a bit before continuing.

[color=aba000]"...hmm...can I eat the horse instead?"[/color]

[color=yellow]"No."[/color]  Luna said, almost sharply.  [color=yellow]"I need to return this to it's owners.  As I said earlier, we can have a feast when we get back to St. Sappho.  I know what I said in the oath, but I can do little to help that here.  Trust me, I'd love a bit of mead right now.  The sooner we get back, the sooner we eat well."[/color]  Luna mounted the horse, but wondered if all three of them could fit on the beast of burden.

[color=aba000]"Awww, you're no fun. Horse tastes delicious. I could more than pay for it~"[/color] Sorcha pouted somewhat, but didn't seem entirely intent on trying it. Instead, she took the jerky, devouring it in a number of seconds. It would do for now, at least, though she was far from satisfied. Oh well, not much she could do at the moment. That said, it looked like Luna was having trouble deciding what to do about their seating arrangements.

Charlotte, took hers without much complaint. It was better than nothing.

[color=aba000]"Don't worry about me, Luna. You don't expect [i]me[/i] of all people to ride one of those things, do you?"[/color] She said, sounding almost somewhat offended as her wings flapped behind her. She doubted the horse could safely carry her anyways...not that she was going to voice that little complaint. [color=aba000]"So don't worry. I'll watch you from above."[/color] That said, she turned her head to Charlotte who seemed intent on avoiding her, or at least labeling her a big scary dragon. [color=aba000]"Hmm...also, how about I show you something fun, Charlotte?"[/color]

[b]"Fun?"[/b] The child simply looked at Sorcha incredulously.

[color=aba000]"Flying, of course."[/color]

The Knightess gave a little bit of a laugh.  [color=yellow]"You just need to tell her no if you don't want to.  Though I should hope our dragon friend here wouldn't think it fun to play a prank on a small child."[/color] Luna peeked at Sorcha to judge the dragon's reaction.  Hopefully she just meant to show Charlotte what it was like to be in the air, but if it was a bit more than that it would probably be a bad idea.

Charlotte's eyes lit up with excitement at the mere thought of it. She bounced over to the dragon, not even listening to Luna.

[b]"Can I? Can I?"[/b]

[color=aba000]"Of course, My child."[/color] Charlotte immediately started jumping up and down, Sorcha gently picking the child up. Sorcha simply smiled at the child's excitement before turning back to Luna as Charlotte settled, clicking her tongue somewhat derisively at Luna's suggestion she might even think of playing a prank on Charlotte. [color=aba000]"And no, I do not 'prank' small children. Only cute little knights like yourself."[/color]

[color=yellow]"Right. . ."[/color] Luna said with a worried smile, worried for the near future.  Well, if she could keep up with the horse, then they were fine.  The Knightess started the horse moving figuring the others would keep up.  She wanted to give Sorcha the feast she owed her now. . . Though she was a little worried about the hit her wallet would take at the time.

Sorcha simply seemed amused by Luna's uncertainty, 

[color=aba000]"Well then. Charlotte, do hold on. I shall be ascending rather quickly."[/color] Without much warning, the dragon gave a powerful flap of her wings, kicking up a gust of wind as she lifted off the ground. The next instant, her wings carried her upwards, almost completely vertically. Within seconds, she was already far above the earth. Luna would likely hear a somewhat panicked shout from Charlotte as they quickly ascended.

[b]"S-slow down!"[/b] Charlotte shouted.

[color=aba000]"Nonsense!~" [/color]Sorcha replied rather amused, though she did seem to slow her ascent somewhat. She had to remember that Charlotte was a squishy little human, after all. The child in question, had no choice but to hold tightly to the dragon, who was carrying her in one of her arms. Her eyes were tightly shut, somewhat scared of the sudden height. It had sounded like a much better idea in her head, now that she thought about it.

After gaining at least a few hundred feet, Sorcha leveled out and observed her surroundings. She smiled to herself. It had been a longtime since she had seen such a view...being in the sky again, was something she hadn't thought she'd do for a long time yet.

[color=aba000]"You can't see anything if you keep your eyes closed, child."[/color] Sorcha said, hovering in place, wings beating slowly in a rhythmic manner to keep them afloat. Slowly, Charlotte opened one, and immediately was awestruck by the view. The sun was still starting its ascent into the sky, sitting just above the horizon. 

[color=aba000]"Beautiful, isn't it?"[/color] Sorcha said with a smile. [color=aba000]"I might be a big scary dragon, but this is probably my favorite thing in the world."[/color] She laughed softly at that, shaking her head. [color=aba000]"Anyways! I've gotta stretch these wings of mine. Hope you don't mind a few aerial acrobatics! Hold tight, now."[/color]

[b]"Acro...batics?"[/b] Charlotte questioned, somewhat concerned. Sorcha simply smiled...before sharply diving towards the ground earning a sharp squeal form Charlotte. 

Luna took a look at the duo in the sky and noticed that they were driving back down to earth and it almost looked like they were going to smash into the ground, though she was pretty sure the dragon cared enough for her own life. Still, [color=yellow]"Take it easy now, Sorcha!”[/color]  She yelled, unsure if the dragon could hear her at all.

The dragon definitely had heard Luna. She leveled out just above the ground, and if she wanted she could likely reach out a hand and touch the ground. The dragon matched pace with Luna, giving her a friendly smile, Charlotte looking both excited, and like she was about to puke.

[color=aba000]"Don't worry, just stretching."[/color] She said to Luna. [color=aba000]"Let us get moving, shall we?"[/color] With another powerful flap of her wings, the dragon sped ahead of Luna.

The trek back to the village was much like the journey there, save for Sorcha practicing her acrobatics all the way there. Charlotte of course, got used to the speed and antics quite quickly. Luna didn't seem to have too much protests, and it wasn't like she was going to hurt the kid either.

By the time the village appeared in the distance, it was sunset and it looked like most people were heading in for the night. Sorcha being able to see it quite a bit of a distance away, slowed her pace and descending. She landed just on the village outskirts and waited for Luna to waltz up on her horse. She let Charlotte down, who wobbled slightly as she readjusted to the ground.
 
[b]"T-that was amazing, you're not so bad at all lady!"[/b] Charlotte said looking up at the dragon with a bright grin.

[color=aba000]"Haha, thank you child."[/color] Sorcha replied, though she seemed somewhat tired. She perhaps overdid it just a bit with the showing off. She may be using much less energy now that she was a familiar, but she still didn't exactly have a whole lot to spend in the first place. She didn't let it bother her though, or show that much, though Luna might be able to tell she wasn't feeling very well at the moment. [color=aba000]"So this is where you live?"[/color]

[b]"Y-yeah. With old man Rald. Its not really a fun place though."[/b] Charlotte replied.

[color=aba000]"Truly? Seems like a quaint little place.[/color]" In truth, it brought back some rather unpleasant and pleasant memories...she shook her head. More importantly...she was hungry.

Her stomach growled loudly to emphasize that point, but she seemed to ignore it.

[color=aba000]"I wonder if there's some food around here I can get my claws on before Luna gets here..."[/color]

[color=yellow]"Sorry to tell you, you won't have time"[/color]  Luna said bringing her and her mount up to the dragon.  [color=yellow]"I need to turn the horse in really quick, so go ahead and go to the old man's place. I should be right there."[/color]  She took the horse and went to the stable to turn the horse in.

[color=aba000]"Tsk. I can eat a horse in a minute, you know."[/color] Sorcha replied with a small smile. [color=aba000]"Plenty of time to eat! but fine. I shall return this little human home." [/color]

[b]"Aw...do we have too?"[/b] Charlotte looked at the ground, sounding very much like she didn't wish to return. [b]"I don't wanna. Rald will just lecture me...again."[/b] Sorcha looked down at Charlotte, giving her a somewhat curious look.

[color=aba000]"Lecture?"[/color] Sorcha inquired.

[b]"...I kinda left...without saying anything."[/b] Sorcha looked down at Charlotte, raising an eyebrow. She had left without saying anything? Sorcha assumed this tiny human at least had permission to be out here with Luna. Otherwise, what in the name of the Allfather was she thinking? That said, she had no idea who this Rald person actually was so perhaps she shouldn't butt in...Well, either way they would have to return to this shop apparently, so she might as well head there.

[color=aba000]"Hm...I will reserve my own judgement for when we arrive, but running off without letting your guardian know where you are heading isn't the brightest of ideas, Charlotte."[/color]

The walk to the old store was a short one with Charlotte leading the way. She got more than a few looks from some of the villagers, of which stopped in their tracks. The dragon of course, seemed to rather enjoy the attention. It was likely they hadn't seen a dragon in quite some time, let alone one of [i]her[/i] regal stature.

Ah, it felt good being out and about again.

Sorcha entered the small shop, Charlotte hiding behind her.

[color=aba000]"Hmm...so this is the place, hmm?"[/color] She said aloud, looking around the place. It certainly smelled...interesting. She placed a hand over her nose.

[b]"...you're that dragon? That friend of that witch, aren't you?"[/b] Sorcha turned her head to the source of the voice - the owner of the shop.

[color=aba000]"Well, if that Witch happens to be Livia Fiore, then indeed that is I."[/color] She replied. [color=aba000]"And I believe this child is yours?"[/color] Sorcha said, moving to the side slightly to reveal Charlotte who was still hiding behind her.

[b]"God! Charlotte you little brat where in the name of god did you run off too!?"[/b] He said, jumping up from his seat. Charlotte tried to hide behind Sorcha again, but it was in vain.

A few minutes later, Sorcha was having a rather pleasant conversation with Rald. Charlotte was busy sorting through a few jars and putting them on the shelves. Judging from the rather dejected look she was wearing, she had gotten quite the scolding.

Luna meanwhile, returned the horse on time and returned to the shop.  As she arrived, she noticed the dragon and old man talking and Charlotte working.  Unsure of what to do otherwise, she spoke up.  [color=yellow]"I've returned."[/color]  The Knightess announced herself as she gently closed the door behind her.  [color=yellow]"Sorry to bother you again, Rald."[/color]  Charlotte had said the name a few times, so Luna made an assumption about it.

The old man simply grunted at Luna's return.

[b]"Thanks for almost getting Charlotte killed."[/b] Sorcha hadn't told him what happened of course. [b]"..but thanks for takin' care of her. That little brat can be a handful sometimes."[/b] He sighed, shaking his head. [b]"Doesn't have many other kids to play with here and the others tend to avoid her since she spends more days with books than playing with the rest of them."[/b] Sorcha seemed pleased with something, but for the most part didn't say anything else and turned to Luna.

[color=aba000]"Shall we be off then? I still haven't gotten that feast yet~"[/color]

Luna nodded at Sorcha's question.  [color=yellow]"Yes, it's about time to get back and report to the Headmistress."[/color]  The Knightess was about to grab the scroll, but she forgot it was a one time use thing. [color=yellow]"Actually, how would we go back?"[/color] She questioned the general area.

[b]"Same way you came in."[/b] Rald grunted, as if it should have been obvious. [/b]"Should take you right back to that Witch's office."[/b]

[color=aba000]"Great! Come on then, lets go."[/color] Sorcha said, urging Luna to walk faster with a small nudge.

[color=yellow]"I see. . ."[/color] Luna said with a bit of confusion leading Sorcha downstairs to the exact point she came in at.  [color=yellow]"Now what?"[/color] She had to ask Sorcha, still slightly confused.  To be fair, she didn't know there was a magic circle below them.

Sorcha gave Luna a small look of disbelief.

[color=aba000]"Well. Magic would work fairly well."[/color]She replied, placing her hands on her hips. [color=aba000]"What is Livia teaching you? If you don't know how to work a simple magic circle...bah, my Knight is rather pathetic."[/color] Perhaps a bit harsh.

[color=yellow]"My magic skills are not as well developed as my sword-skills, fair enough but I do not believe I could just conjure a portal or say some magic words and take us right to the Headmistress' office with little other help. . ."[/color]  She took great offence to being called "pathetic" and couldn't really process much else until she remembered Sorcha mentioned a magic circle.  

[color=yellow]"Wait, did you say magic circle? Lux."[/color]  Luna's light appeared and she looked down.  Of course there was a magic circle.  She wanted to grumble, but that wouldn't help anyone so she just merely activated the circle.

Just as Luna activated the circle, Sorcha's nose caught smell of something through the musty scents of the dried herbs and stagnant air. She turned her head swiftly towards the area behind Luna. Her eyes landed on something that looked vaguely familiar.

[color=aba000]"Is that...?"[/color] She took a single step closer, eyes lighting up in realization that it was exactly what she imagined it to be. A pound of delicious looking dried meat, and her stomach would not be denied so easily.

[color=aba000]"Stop the spell Luna!"[/color] She jumped forwards just as the circle activated with Sorcha diving for Luna. The next instant, the dragon and human were teleported to the middle of Livia's office. Sorcha slammed into Luna, likely knocking the Knight right over...and ending up right on top of her on the plush carpet in Livia's office.

Luna was very much surprised when Sorcha yelled for her to stop the spell.  She couldn't at this point and the next thing she knew, she was on the floor in Livia's office.  [color=yellow]"Can we not go through this being slammed into the ground issue again?"[/color] Luna had to ask the dragon.  She still needed to get her armor repair. . . Of the many skills she had, blacksmithing was not one of them.  

Still, she tried to keep herself from thinking too much of the beautiful woman on top of her.  [color=yellow]"Let's get up, Sorcha."[/color]

[color=aba000]"Aww...darn it. And it smelled so delicious too."[/color] Sorcha rather loudly complained before looking down at Luna. [color=aba000]"And what? You expect a dragon to be on bottom?"[/color] Before she could say much else though, Livia interrupted the two of them.

[color=a187be]"...if you two want some privacy, I can most certainly give you some."[/color] She replied from the desk. Cynthia, the maid was standing next to it, giving both the dragon and Luna a rather hostile glare. It seemed like she was not happy with their presence for whatever reason. [color=a187be]"And quit teasing Luna, Sorcha you old dragon."[/color] The blond haired woman turned her head to Livia, huffing lightly.

[color=aba000]"Oh come on. Its not like I'm actually hurting anyone, but fine."[/color] The dragon rolled her eyes, getting off of Luna and walking over to Livia's desk. [color=aba000]"It's good to see you though, Livia."[/color]

[color=a187be]"Likewise, old friend. Its good to see you up and about."[/color]

[color=aba000]"Feels nice to finally be up...I can't say I expected to be moving any time soon, but young Luna here has...impressed me."[/color] The dragon chuckled.

[color=a187be]"Indeed? Care to fill me in on the details of how you picked up this troublesome baggage, Luna?"[/color] Sorcha scoffed, but said nothing and decided that one of the couches would make for a very comfortable throne, laying across it and taking up an entire one herself, arm resting on the arm rest with her legs and tail taking up the rest of it.

Luna scratched her head where it hit the ground while she stood.  [color=yellow]"Greetings, Headmistress."[/color]  She said, watching the dragon move over to a couch and settle.  [color=yellow]"Where to start. . ."[/color]  The Knightess said before she began recounting the tale of how she found her way to the cave and fought a crazed Sorcha before the practically knocked each other out and came back.  [color=yellow]"I probably need to find a healer and definitely find a blacksmith.  My armor is in a bit of rough shape right now."[/color]  The girl mentioned looking at the great dents in it.  It looked repairable at any rate.


[color=a187be]"Causing trouble as always then, Sorcha?"[/color] Livia chuckled.

[color=aba000]"Hmph, not my fault some thief [i]stole[/i] from me then wanted to place the blame on Luna here."[/color]

[color=a187be]"At any rate, I have kept you long enough Luna."[/color] Livia replied. "[color=a187be]I apologize for making you go through that. I had no idea a thief would even attempt such a thing, let alone even know where her cave was. Its not exactly public knowledge. Feel free to go rest and have someone take a look at you - the both of you. You're not doing very well at the moment, you stubborn old dragon so go take it easy."[/color]

[color=aba000]"I am fine, Livia."[/color] Sorcha replied, Livia simply sighed obviously not too happy with Sorcha's apparent stubbornness. [color=aba000]"Luna did a number on me, certainly, but it will take more than a novice Knight to kill me, but if we're free to leave..."[/color] Sorcha looked over at Luna, obviously expecting to be taken out on that feast she had been promised.

Luna sighed, [color=yellow]"Yes, yes.  Let us go somewhere and have a feast."[/color]  Of course the dragon would remember that after all.  Well, there was one place she'd have visted that was cheap, had good food and mead.  [color=yellow]"I know a place we can go."[/color]  Luna led the dragon out and into town.