The True Colours of an Empire_Ch:1_Dragonborn 5

“If these are to be used, then there must be some dangerous magic to be dealt with on this mission. I assume they are empty?” Drachma asks, as he places all three coins in the pocket of his chest strap.

“Reports mentioned bolts of lightning coming from the sky, and even a building was burned from the impact of its blasts. The foreign prince was reported fighting with a mage, but thankfully, he suffered only minor wounds. Oddly tough things these people are. But mindless, nonetheless.” Horovar takes a sip from his mug.

“One of the blue ones escaped from captivity using what appears to be very reckless magic. Lighting ones were always so troublesome in the conflict. Damn things targeted our armour and even fried some of my men in their armour. But simply capturing their mouth stops most of the troublesome parts. Nets with rubber inline turns them into just some overgrown lizards.” Drachma replies, as he reminisces in some old memory that he is fond of.

“I see why you were pulled out of the cell. Your knowledge on their abilities is extensive. The book about them, that was published, solely came from your work. But, I assume, the war criminal releasing a book on how to slay the monsters better would have put more added tension between the empire and the pit of lizards that they call their homeland.” Horovar looks at the crew, “The team for this mission is rather interesting. A fairy from Ogosskya, a child of a famed noble house, and now a soldier who can sweep the floors.”

“I have dealt with worse during the conflict in the south that year. They seem somewhat competent. The girl seems well trained, and the fairy seems charismatic enough to be picked up by Lomamantle. But the fragile one…I have no idea why he is here.” Drachma sighs looking at the group.

After about a week of travelling on the waters, the ship finally arrives at the shore of the town of Vada. The pleasant town is very quiet compared to the capital city. The atmosphere seems off due to the previous week’s events. 

“According to lord Lomamantle, one of the contacts is a person named ‘Wall Art’ in a place called the ‘Iron Possum’. Now where would that be?” Meadow looks at Eliel for the answer. 

“That’s a popular spot. I used to eat there a lot. So, I can get us there.” Eliel replies.

Some of the people of the town notice the presence of a man who might cause trouble. Drachma looks over to them while speaking, “Who’s the other contact we’ll have to meet, Meadow?”

“A man named Taleus. I heard that he is a captain general, and spoke with the foreign prince from Youprenia.”

Drachma looks at Iriel, “I and Iriel will find this Taleus individual while you and Eliel go to Iron Possum.”

Agreeing to Drachma’s idea, the group splits up in two teams of two people each. Making their way through the people of the town while finally being in a less claustrophobic environment after passing some days on the boat, and enjoying a nice breath of fresh air, both the teams start walking towards their destination.

Meadow and Eliel arrive at the Iron Possum. Its old signboard dangles above the door, welcoming everyone with the tavern’s smiling mascot. Entering the place, Meadow catches a whiff of wonderful smelling treats mixed with the pleasant smell of Lavender and Rosemary which momentarily reminds him of his homeland and the happy memories of running through the fields of Ogosskya. Eliel snaps him out of the old memories.

“Sorry Eliel, I got distracted for a moment.” Meadow apologises. “So, where is this Wall Art person?”

A clearing of the throat brings the two’s attention to a feline tavern owner, a small sphinx cat crossing his arms. His pinkish skin is only barely making an appearance through the runic dark black tattoos.

“Welcome to the Iron Possum. I am Wall Art.”

T.B.C.

Writer: Alejandro Faverzani.

Artist: Nayeli Zelaya.

Co-writer and art editor: adifferentway.