《My second life is a Dragon Lord?》


 PROLOGUE

    PROLOGUE


    ¡°So this is what it was all about,¡± the man spoke aloud, his arms raised in a magnanimous gesture.


    The ancient vault glittered in the firelight, with priceless treasures scattered all around. Most people would have snatched up something by now, unable to resist the temptation but years of research informed the man that he was allowed to take one treasure and there was only one that had his interest. So he walked past the swords that could cut dimensions, the boxes that held an infinity and even the chains that bound time, his eyes fixed on the prize.


    The man walked up to a small pedestal where an ornate silver mirror about the size of a dinner plate sat. It was a beautiful object but compared to the other treasures it seemed lacking.


    ¡°The Samsara Mirror,¡± the man whispered reverently. He bent and contorted to look into the mirror, being careful that the one before him was the mirror he sought.He found what he was looking for immediately. He could see his reflection in the mirror but the background was a different place. A different world.


    This was it, he had searched and fought and killed looking for this treasure. The Legend said the Samsara Mirror would appear to those fated to find it but he had no strong destiny with the magical mirror and could only give up, and realise it was beyond him to reach.


    That was when he refocused his goal, he couldn¡¯t track the mirror but there were places the mirror was destined to appear in so he looked for this place instead, the Vault of Babylon. All treasures existed here despite where they actually were in the world, the caveat was that you could only take one before being expelled.


    There was always a caveat when it came to treasures, according to the legend the mirror had a Djinn in it. It was rumoured to be the most powerful Djinn in existence but it was twisted. Not the kind of twisted where the Djinn always aimed for the worst outcome for the user. It was the kind of twisted religions offered, where you got your reward after death. The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    The man reached out his hand and claimed his prize.


    YOU HAVE WON THE GAME. YOUR REINCARNATION IS GUARANTEED.


    ¡°Well that was easy. Um. To whom am I speaking?¡±


    A SYSTEM MANAGER.


    ¡°Thank you, that answer was as clear as mud,¡± this entity spoke like a grand machine, he had heard theories where reality was a dream, but could it be a program? Questions for another time. The voice of the Mirror continued.


    ASK FOR ANYTHING. WHAT IS YOUR DESIRE FOR YOU SECOND LIFE?


    There was a good chance that the Mirror was as big a scam as religion, just some demon waiting to eat your soul but the offer of anything you want was too tempting to resist.


    Either way he was prepared.


    ¡°Easy, I wish for Omniscience.¡±


    DENIED.


    ¡°What? You said ¡®anything¡¯.¡±


    APOLOGIES, ABSOLUTE KNOWLEDGE IN ALL THINGS IS NOT ALLOWED WITHOUT ADMINISTRATOR PRIVILEGES.


    "Ok, grant me Administrator Privileges."


    DENIED.


    "Well what can I get?¡±


    ABSOLUTE KNOWLEDGE IN ONE SUBJECT.


    ¡°How about Magic?¡±


    MAGIC, DERIVATIVE OF MANA. 75% OF WORLDS HAVE IT. ABSOLUTE KNOWLEDGE AVAILABLE.


    ¡°Wait, on how many worlds is Mana available on?¡±


    100% OF WORLDS, MANA IS UNIVERSAL.


    ¡°OK, can I get absolute knowledge in Mana instead?¡±


    There was a pause as the voice deliberated.


    ABSOLUTE KNOWLEDGE OF MANA, IS AVAILABLE.


    ¡°Ok then my wish is absolute knowledge of Mana, and don''t short change me, reincarnate me into a body that has a high affinity in it.¡±


    YOUR WISH IS GRANTED. ENJOY THE REST OF THIS LIFE.


    His business concluded the vault ejected him. He was instantly moved from the treasure trove to an untamed jungle, he wasn¡¯t far from the river where his refurbished Canadair CL-415 sea plane awaited.


    His goal reached the man mused over his life. Thus far he has had no great loves. He has lost all of his friends. And he has created no legacy. Even though he has won it felt to him as if he was the loser.


    ¡°I have spent sixty years of my life chasing knowledge, maybe I should spend the rest learning to feel.¡±


    With that thought he turned around with new purpose, marching through the thin underbrush down to the river. He was determined to leave no regrets behind.


    33 years later he died.

 CHAPTER 1 - IS IT A BIRTHRIGHT IF YOU ARE HATCHED?

    CHAPTER 1 - IS IT A BIRTHRIGHT IF YOU ARE HATCHED?


    The kaleidoscope of lights swirled around him. He was only vaguely aware that he must have passed on and that this was the beginning of his new life. Time passed, along with the colourful lights came understanding. The complete knowledge of mana filled his mind.


    Suddenly there was intense Darkness. He felt as though he had just had the best sleep of his life. As he stretched his body he heard cracking before he tumbled across the floor.


    "Did I just come out of a shell?"


    Hearing his own voice made him pause.


    "Babies can''t talk, I''m not speaking English."


    Quickly realising that he was no longer human he cast his first spell.


    Light!


    A bright light flooded up above his clawed hand.


    "Claws?"


    Now, more than a little surprised, he cast his second spell.


    Refraction!


    The air quickly cooled, thickened and coalesced into a perfect mirror floating above the ground.


    The wide-eyed reflection looking back at himself was a baby black Dragon.


    "Should I have specified being reincarnated as a human?" An answer to his own question quickly came into his mind.


    ''As a Dragon Lord I can change into anything this is a much better choice.'' He paused again. How did he know that about Dragons? How did he know this new language he was speaking was Draconian.


    ¡®DRAGON LORE.¡¯


    Once again information flooded his mind, the information was genetic. The birthright of every Dragon¡­ ''Is it a birthright if you are hatched? Hatchright?''


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t have the same ring to it.¡±


    Browsing through this new knowledge some information he gained amazed him.


    ¡®Dragon¡¯s are horrible parents.¡¯ he thought. The reason such a thought crossed his mind was the certainty that every few centuries all Dragon Lords would go into heat and breed some female creature. The result would always be a Dragon egg. The bad parenting came in with how that egg was treated. Since all Dragons are male the Dragon father would put the egg in a cave on a mountain with small mound of gold coins to hatch and fend for itself. Their parenting duties fulfilled. They didn''t even bother to give their offspring a name.


    "Shee-it, I''m going to have to name myself."


    After deliberating for a few hours, he was seriously tempted to go with ''Vermithrax Pejorative'' the coolest name he had ever heard for a Dragon but decided to be original instead, his conclusion was ''Roeg-Hiam¡¯. The old language for a ¡®moonless night¡¯. His scales were an endless black with flecks of light like a starry sky so it was a suitable name. It was now his name.


    Reog-Hiam spent some time getting used to his new body, wings, tail and a pair of stylish horns Roeg-Hiam decided he was rather handsome.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    Once he was done with that, Roe started looking around the cave. A pile of gold coins was in the centre along with the black shards of his broken shell. Sadly he didn¡¯t know how much any of it was worth, The Dragon Lore in his mind gave him the history of Dragonkind but not much else. Political climates, economical infrastructures, even geographic details were missing but when your Lore includes how to survive in space and travel at faster than light speeds maybe everything else becomes trivial.


    ¡°I guess I just better go exploring.¡± Roe looked at the pile of valuables, all he owned in the world and dropped them into a ¡®Spatial Pocket¡¯. That way he could bring everything with him in a secure manner. Scanning the cave once more to ensure there was nothing he missed he headed out of the cave and into the light.


    As he stepped out of the cave Roe immediately stopped. He was being watched. Stepping back into the cave and those eyes couldn''t see him anymore but exiting brought them back.


    Dragon Lore:


    The Gods see all and disseminate that information to their followers as they see fit. Fortunately Dragon Lords have a way to deal with this.


    An instinctual pulse of energy spread out from his body.


    ''Unhindered!''


    Although it was Invisible, Roe felt the eyes go away.


    Dragon Lore:


    ''Dragon Rule 4- Unhindered'' nothing may scry within a kilometer diameter of a Dragon Lord.


    ''Good, now unless a God was willing to physically materialise there was no way to find out what I am up to.¡¯


    Dragon Lore:


    Any God materializing in front of a Dragon Lord unannounced is most likely an adversary.


    Roe sat down.


    ¡®Did my Dragon Lore imply I could fight a God?


    ¡­


    No not me, a Dragon Lord.


    ¡­


    What in tarnation is a Dragon Lord?''


    Dragon Lore:


    Dragons are born feral and slowly accumulate Mana during their first millennium. Only after holding enough mana does a Dragon gain sentience, with sentience comes access to their Dragon Lore, within Dragon Lore is the magic system known as DRAGON RULE. Only those who have survived this trial are Dragon Lords.


    ''I''m totally scamming the system.'' Roe thought. His memories from his last life allowed him to be self aware and though he had very little Mana his absolute knowledge allowed him to use his little and control the plenty in the atmosphere as if it were his own.


    ''This won''t fool another dragon or a God who gets a really good look at me, therefore I need to build my Mana reserve now.¡¯


    Roe took in his environment, the cave he was in was cut into a sheer cliff face. Miles below him the frozen mountains gave way to a forest. To his right a vast landscape, from his vantage Point he could see Rivers, lakes, other mountains and even settlements. To his left he could see the shoreline a few miles away as well as a few sailing vessels dotting the ocean.


    Roe quickly made up his mind and took flight toward the sea.


    Flying came so naturally to him that it only crossed his mind what he was doing after he had already started it. He decided not to think too much about it since his Instincts were serving him well.


    ''Dragon rule 3: Unseen.''


    The rule of true invisibility. Now no one would see his passing.


    What Roe needed to focus on was building his Mana supply. Pulling in energy and making it his own was easy for Roe but he needed to find a way to do it that was not eye-catching. If he pulled it in from the sun he would create a beam of light that could be seen from miles. If he pulled the energy from the earth, the mountain he was on would crumble to dust and the forest below him would wither and die. Finding an active volcano would take too much time. No, the ocean was his best choice.

 CHAPTER 2 - ROEG-HIAM THE MIDNIGHT

    CHAPTER 2 - ROEG-HIAM THE MIDNIGHT


    Here is where Roe''s knowledge from his old life and his new life intercepted. During his past lifetime many companies harnessed electricity from the sea''s waves and now he could too.


    Finding a deserted stretch of beach Roe quickly dove into the water. The effect was immediate, starting at the point where Roe was and spreading like a ripple, all of the waves in the ocean vanished. Those on the Ocean or by the shoreline noticed, but by the time they tried to alert others the winds had created fresh waves.


    ''Dragon Rule 13: Transform!''


    Roe''s body went through a metamorphosis, he was no longer the tiny cute baby dragon. In its place floated his adult self. What was once chubby was now sleek. For dragons which could look like anything the true measure of age was their Mana reserve.


    Roeg-Hiam''s Mana reserve was now as deep as an ocean, literally. To other dragons he would seem an adult.


    ''Dragon Rule 5: Atmosphere!''


    With this rule Roe no longer had to worry about breathing so he swam along the seafloor planning his next move. Using a wide combination of Dragon Rules to observe the people on ships and the shoreline for several weeks. At first Roe felt like a creep, he¡¯d never thought of himself as a voyeur but the more he watched, the more he felt like he was watching a TV show.


    ''Were the people of my old society just perverts?'' He wondered.


    Roe pushed those thoughts aside and focused on more relevant things. Over the next few months he quickly learned a few languages and came to understand the political and economic circumstances of many a Kingdom.


    Kingdoms, now that was a shocker. The technology of this world was archaic, literally medieval but thanks to magic professions like Wizards, Sorcerers and Alchemist living conditions in this world were comparable to his old one.


    As Roe became more comfortable he would stop at a port city and use transformation magic to walk amongst the people. He experimented with different species, skin tones and clothing styles, using as many combinations as he could think of. His goal was to find out how people reacted socially. He was disappointed to find Prejudice was as strong in this world as it was in his old one. But rather than skin tone it was via species that the discrepancy was greatest. In the majority of Kingdoms humans, dwarves and Forest elves were treated the best while the wide variety of beastkin were treated abysmally. Giants, Ogres, Trolls and Drow were feared and avoided. As for people''s opinions on dragons that was a mixed bag. Although everyone was very respectful when they spoke, the basic opinion of most males was that dragons were there to steal your money and your women. The opinions of most females was that Dragons were handsome lotharios coming to whisk them away from all the drudgery.


    Roe had no idea which of these was the norm. His Dragon Lore told him a Dragon¡¯s life revolved around their Harem and their Horde. His small fortune could hardly be called a Horde, he had no Females.


    ''Hmm, it seems I''ve acquired a new goal.''


    Roe pondered this while sitting at a curbside caf¨¦, enjoying both a fine tea and glorious sunset. His musings were interrupted by unexpected guests. 3 women and four men walked up to his table, they were quite eye-catching. Aside from the fact that they were on average at least 3 feet taller than most people, their skin appeared to be made of marble and they were glowing a golden radiance. This was the first time Roeg-Hiam had laid eyes on Gods but he knew them well. With 7 of them They could fight a Dragon Lord.


    It was an open secret that a Dragon Lord was more powerful than a God but the Gods had numbers on their side.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    Roe gestured, an invitation to the seat opposite him and the lead goddess shrank down to a respectable 5''11" and sat, the others remained standing behind her still on their guard. Roe wondered how they would react if he activated Dragon Rule 12: Domain, would they attack? Gods had Heavenly Planes where they were the law, in the Mortal Plane they were more limited. Dragon Lords on the other hand had Domain, once active no matter what plane they were on within a particular radius they took control of time, space and could cancel the workings of others, whether miracles, magics or ki attacks. This made Dragon Lords OP as fuck.


    Gods used Raid team tactics to counter this advantage. Some Gods would remain outside the domain to cast healing, buffs and long range attacks while others melee.


    "Greetings Dragon Lord, I am the Goddess Zuriel. I do not recognize you in your human guise. What is your name?"


    "Roeg-Hiam the Midnight ." Dragon Lore told him; adding a descriptor of one''s colouring was proper etiquette. That descriptor became the name of your house, Roeg-Hiam didn¡¯t want to be confused with another black Dragon so he chose his name carefully.


    Roe''s reply caused the Gods to exchange curious looks, none of them recognized his name.


    "You must be newly awakened... Congratulations."


    "Thank you."


    ¡°As a newly awakened Dragon Lord, you may be unaware but you are breaking our Sky-fall Treaty by being here in the God Lands.¡±


    "¡­ My apologies, can you educate me before I go?" Roe asked.


    ¡°Ok, I¡¯ll tell you how the Gods saw it; The Star-Beast War began when 15 Dragon Lords crashed from space to this world many eons ago, the Gods tried to repel the invaders but the Dragon Lords were mighty. In the end hundreds of Gods died just to kill two Dragon Lords.


    Win or lose our world would be ashes before the war ended, and while the Dragon Lords could go to another world, Gods are tied to their world. So we sued for peace.


    Much to our shame, the Dragon Lords were¡­ affable. If we had tried to talk first, over 100 Gods would still be alive." Zuriel sighed heavily before continuing her narrative


    "In the end we came to a treaty. The continent was divided. The larger portion was kept by us Gods and the smaller one by you Dragon Lords."


    "I truly meant no offence. I''ll be leaving now." Roe said as he stood to go.


    "It''s okay, this happens occasionally because of the unique way your species matures." Zuriel said as one of the Gods behind her handed Roeg-Hiam a golden scroll.


    Roe took the scroll and unfurled it. It was a deed and coordinates to a territory in the Dragon Lands.


    "So you Gods still manage the Dragon Lands?" Roe asked as he put the deed away.


    "It is a thankless job and, no offence but you Dragon Lords are not the most organised lot." Zuriel said with a bright smile.


    Just thinking about himself, Roe would disagree with her, but he hadn¡¯t met the other Dragon Lords to make an accurate assessment. He returned her smile and departed through the crowd that had grown around their impromptu meeting. Roe noticed that many men looked at him warily, some holding their wives and daughters tighter while many women, including quite a few wives and daughters sent him lusty glares.


    Back in the ocean, continuing his travels, Roe concluded that the gods tracked him by going to the centre of the negative zone that Dragon Lords generated to stop scrying. While it did stop the Gods from seeing what you did, it also made it easy to place where you were. A double edge sword. The territory the Gods granted him also served a dual purpose, not only a way to appease him but also a cage in which to keep him.


    He wanted to explore all the lands. He wanted to build a fortune. He now also wanted to build a capable harem. Either way moving around was a necessity. Not to mention an empty land was boring and developing it was hard work. No, he needed to stay hidden from the Gods so they couldn''t nag him, then he could take root anywhere for as long as he liked hassle free.


    Roe had a plan but needed money to pull it off.


    ''Money may be easier to get than people think.'' He thought.


    For a few months more Roe followed the shipping lanes using Dragon Rule 11 Sense Roe found and looted wrecks along the seafloor. His haul was impressive. Easy wealth being the key to freedom, he was now ready to create a secret identity.


    ***


    Zuriel was working in her Heavenly plain when she felt the fluctuations of her sister Asturiel.


    ¡°I heard you met a new wyrm.¡± Asturiel said.


    ¡°That¡¯s a slur, sister. You know better than to use those.¡± Zuriel replied. Nearly 100 elder gods had fallen in the Star Beast war, promoting her to a position of leadership which forced her to look at the bigger picture. Some other gods like her sister still held bitterness in their hearts.


    ¡°Every few centuries one manages to survive to adulthood, adding to their numbers.¡± Asturiel complained.


    ¡°We hunt those we find before maturity and should another conflict arise we are better prepared and they now have much to lose. They value their horde and harems. Bear with it sister, time is on our side.¡± Zuriel comforted.


    Asturiel pouted. Zuriel was growing comfortable with Dragons¡¯ presence, she wanted to control the Star beasts.


    Astruriel saw them for what they were, an unnatural species in the environment of their world and she wanted them gone.

 CHAPTER 3 - I DESERVE AN ACADEMY

    CHAPTER 3 - I DESERVE AN ACADEMY


    Once a week a beautiful Elf lady would fly into a hidden cove on her Griffin to fish in seclusion. Roe had noticed her in his travels. She was his target.


    Earlier in the week Roe had seen a Kraken sink a cargo ship on its way to one of the Great Kingdoms near the area of that cove, and after looting the wreckage he searched the ship''s ledger and confirmed many passengers travelling under the alias Unnamed Wizard. ''This is perfect.'' Roe thought.


    Roeg-Hiam the Midnight rose a terrible storm over the sea the day before the Elf lady was scheduled to visit the cove although he made sure the next day the skies were clear. Now his backstory was set. Roe waited until he saw her and her griffin flying in before using Dragon Rule: Transform to make himself look human, but to stop the Gods from noticing him he dismissed the other Dragon Rules. Now no one would be able to tell he was a Dragon.


    Other Dragon Lords couldn¡¯t do something like this. In a human form without the Dragon Rules they would be just as fragile as anyone else but considering his absolute knowledge of Mana, greater human Magic in all of its forms was available to him, along with the physical techniques used by warriors. In this world it is called Aura but in his old world it was a myth with many names like Chi or Chakra.


    Roe was prepared so he allowed the tide to wash him ashore and waited looking quite miserable and truly pathetic. He didn¡¯t have to wait long. Roe had observed her in the past and knew her to be a kind soul from how she interacted with her Griffin mount.


    The Elf lady rushed to his side checking him for life. Roe coughed as she turned him over.


    ¡®I deserve an academy for this performance.¡¯ He thought happily to himself.


    She continued her ministrations, at her command spirits of wind, water and energy rushed to bolster his vitality. She was a Sorceress.


    Continuing his performance, Roe slowly opened his eyes to see her relieved countenance.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± he rasped. ¡°Who are you, where am I?¡±


    She smiled beatifically at him.


    ¡°My name is Laureline, as far as I know this cove has no name but you are in the Dragon Lands just outside the kingdom of Alstroemeria. Hearing what he needed, Roe conveniently passed out.


    Laureline quickly packed him up in a warm blanket and created a harness for the Griffin to fly her and Roe back to her cabin in the hills. Roe ¡®awoke¡¯ late in the night. Laureline had packed him into her bed and was napping in a chair next to him.


    ¡°Mmm.¡± his quiet groan woke her. Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    ¡°How are you feeling?¡±


    Continuing his act, Roe asked for water. Laureline helped steady his shaking hands as he drank.


    ¡°Thank you. From how well I am healed you must be some form of Magi. You said your name is Laureline, or was that just a dream?


    ¡°No that happened but I didn¡¯t get your name, who are you good sir?¡±


    ¡°Ah, how rude of me I am called Roe. A travelling Wizard working as an Enchanter and Merchant.¡±


    ¡°Well-met Magister Roe. I take it your condition is because of that terrible storm that hit the other day.¡±


    ¡°Indeed Magi Laureline, I got washed overboard after foolishly trying to secure my cargo¡­ I¡¯m afraid I am bereft and cannot repay you yet.¡±


    ¡°There is no need for repayment Magister Roe.¡±


    ¡°I insist Magi Laureline and please just call me Roe.¡±


    ¡°Ok Roe, you just call me Laurel.¡±


    For the next few days Magister Roe regained his strength and began helping out around Laureline¡¯s home. As soon as he was well enough, Laureline promptly reclaimed her bedroom and made up a place for him on the floor of the Den.


    Laureline lived alone in an idyllic valley a couple of miles from the sea. Aside from Soccery she practiced Alchemy making a variety of potions. She would also raise sheep using her Sorcerous power to keep them safe, calling upon elemental spirits to drive away predators and to keep her flock from wandering. Monthly she would travel to the coastal town of Babel to sell potions and seasonally she would sell the wool from her flock.


    Roe had planned his identity well, enchanters were rare and highly sought after. Early one morning, in his second month in the valley, Roe joined Laurel on her Griffin named Paw and flew into the town of Babel.


    The coastal town of Babel wasn''t huge but it was a decent size and well placed. As the last human settlement before the Dragon Lands Babel was a melting pot for business. Many intelligent species came there to trade and it was that last place Adventurers could resupply. If it wasn''t for the constant threat of monster attacks or if the kingdom was willing to put a larger garrison there, Babel would be thriving.


    They landed outside of the town''s walls and Laureline sent Paw into the forest to hunt. He would have a good time and she could call him when it was time to leave. This arrangement also let Laurel save on stable fees. While Laureline went to the general store to collect her funds from the last month''s potion sales and then her monthly shopping Roe went to the Market square. For 3 bronze you could ply your trade there for the day, Laureline had kindly loaned the ¡®flat broke¡¯ Roe the money. Roe found a clear area and sat. He had no wares to sell so this grabbed people''s attention. Rolling up his sleeves Roe gestured dramatically. Above his head words made of light appeared.


    TRAVELLING WIZARD.


    ENCHANTMENTS AND REPAIRS.


    FREE CONSULTATIONS.


    NO REFUNDS.


    Roe was actually quite wealthy by this point but there was no harm in making more and this would solidify his new identity.


    At first people were nervous but when the boy from butcher shop came and asked about repair and enchanting his father¡¯s knives Roe''s light and airy demeanor as well as his low rates opened a floodgate. All of his past voyeurism *ahem* research, allowed Roe to know how much Enchanting cost and tailor his services to this town. By lunch time the news had spread at the speed of gossip. House wives and farmers came out in droves with all their tools. An enchantment that kept your axe sharp, an enchantment that made your cart lighter than half, these things could usually only be found in the biggest cities.


    Shortly afterwards Laureline showed up with a sandwich for him. She then blocked customers while he ate and secured his spot so he could use the bathroom. When Roe started working again the line of patrons had grown even longer, Laureline took over dealing with customers so Roe could focus on his Enchanting, that sped things up significantly.


    Laureline was definitely a keeper.


    Roe had to promise to stay late once the Adventurers and the town''s Guards got in on the action.


    He and Laureline didn''t leave until the witching hour, tired but far more wealthy.

 CHAPTER 4 - WHERE ARE YOUR PEOPLE?

    CHAPTER 4 - WHERE ARE YOUR PEOPLE?


    The next morning Roe gave one third of his earnings to Laureline as payment. She was delighted. This share was nearly double what she usually earned.


    "Well Laurel I have enough to no longer trouble you, you''ve been a wonderful host."


    "You are leaving? Um, I mean of course you are leaving. You had important business to attend to when you were waylaid." Laurel replied looking sad and forlorn.


    "My business wasn¡¯t that important, I was just on my way to the Mages Tower to register my sigil. Would you like me to stay a bit longer?" He asked.


    Laureline blushed all the way down to her throat.


    "Not to seem forward, Magister Roe, but it gets quite lonely so far from society."


    Sensing an opportunity Roe stepped closer to Laurel and embraced her. In his last life his looks were average at best. The human form he had taken was devilishly handsome and the natural musk Dragons emitted played havoc with opposite sex. Laurel''s blush grew from her cheeks to her ears as she leaned in to kiss him. Roe left her breathless and panting. Before his idiot head got in the way of the moment.


    "So why are you out here alone, where are your people?"


    All the beautiful colour drained from Laureline¡¯s face. Roe was afraid she would pull out of his embrace but she leaned her face on his chest instead.


    "I''m a fugitive." She whispered.


    "I''m sorry, if you don''t wish to talk about it I understand." Roe gently smoothed her hair and replied.


    "No, it has been nearly 50 years, almost a full lifetime for a human like you. I''ve let this tragedy rule me long enough." Laureline stepped out of Roe''s embrace and began to pace. Roe sat on a bench and gave her the time she needed to tell her story.


    "My father is the head of the Golden Silk Clan. We were at war with the Orb Weaver Clan so a marriage between myself and the son of their leader was arranged as part of a treaty to unite us.


    Leading up to the wedding all conflict stopped. Everything was honestly looking up. The ceremony was beautiful, we danced and sang around the volcano pits, truly the Underdark had not seen such festivities for millennia." Laureline had twirled and capered during her retelling, she was totally in the past her current surroundings unseen.


    "At the appointed time, my new husband; his name was Tothanon, he and I retired to the bridal chamber. Neither of us were virgins, Elves don''t care about things like that, but it was special. I was prepared to spend a lifetime with him." Laureline¡¯s face dropped in horror.


    "I would have never guessed my family was slaughtering his as we fornicated down the hall. When my father led my Clan into the bridal chamber to drag him out to be beheaded he went from shock to disbelief to rage in blinks of the eye. He didn''t believe my innocence. He died cursing my name and calling me a whore."


    Roe schooled his features, though his mind was racing.


    ''Crap her family is like the ones that killed the Starks at the Red wedding.''


    Laureline turned and looked at Roe, finally seeing him again.


    "I ran before his blood cooled. Both my Clan and our enemies have come after me from time to time. I actually prefer when I get found by enemies, I can just kill them. When my own Clan finds me I''m forced to run." Roe reached out to Laurel and pulled her into his lap. She came willingly, there were tears in her eyes but she blinked them away.


    "Like I said that was almost a lifetime ago. Time to move on." Laureline kissed him again, this time Roe kept his fool questions to himself.


    Laureline¡¯s lips were soft and plump, Roe took great pleasure tasting them, he pushed his tongue past her teeth exploring her mouth before retreating and allowing her to explore his own.


    Roe demonstrated his dexterity navigating the laces of her dress so she could toss it over her head. It was to his pleasant surprise to find Laurel wasn¡¯t wearing anything underneath, her breasts were naturally perky and her body athletic. After drinking in her figure with his eyes Roe''s hand plunged between Laurel''s warm thighs, she gently spread her knees as two of his fingers plumbed her depths and a slow low moan escaped her lips as his thumb massaged the bead that was her clitorus peeking out of its hood.


    Laurel did away with dexterity in favour of ferocity, ripping Roe''s shirt off before tossing him onto the carpeted floor. Laureline admired Roe¡¯s wide shoulders, broad chest and corded muscles.


    ¡®He looks more like a young farm hand rather than a Wizard.¡¯ She thought as she pinned him to the ground.


    Roe''s baritone laughter filled the room. It made Laurel tingle all over. She undid his breachers and stared gobsmacked at the girth of his turgid member.


    "Fuck yes." She growled before taking his full length deep into her throat. It was Roe¡¯s turn to groan with both pleasure and frustration. Laurel¡¯s technique was flawless, every downward bob of her head she would hum, the vibration stimulating the head of this organ. It was only through supreme willpower he lasted through her ministrations. Laurel was impressed, she held his eyes as she straddled him, slowly aligning his throbbing head to her wet lips, preparing to mount him.


    With a wicked smirk Roe held Laurel¡¯s hips and thrust upwards, Laurel squeaked and collapsed on him in orgasam. Her body shuddering, vaginal walls tight on his member.


    ¡°Don¡¯t try to tease me with a gentle time now woman, your true desires are laid bare. Ride me wild and hard.¡± Once her first orgasm subsided Laurel propped herself up, flicked her hair out of her face and met Roe¡¯s eyes once again, the hunger there was palatable. Her gyrations accelerated, her voice growing louder, her nails digging into his flesh, her second orgasm being every bit as epic as her first. Once again Laurel found herself laying on Roe¡¯s chest trying to catch her breath. Roe wrapped his arms around her back.


    ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard darling. I¡¯ll take it from here.¡± With that Roe rolled Laurel on her back, his weight on his elbows, their eyes locked together, their lips barely touching, sharing each other¡¯s breath as Roe began to piston in and out of her. Where Laurel¡¯s pace accelerated to a wild crescendo, Roe¡¯s was a steady heartbeat from the beginning. His lips and hands explored her body; her mouth, ears, throat, the base of her skull, her breasts, the length of her spine, even her feet. As Roe discovered Laurel¡¯s erogenous zones he gave them ample attention all while maintaining the steady rhythm of his hips, sending Laurel to Climax after Climax until he himself could take no more and found his release in her warm depths.


    With both of them breathless, Roe rolled on to his back and pulled Laurel on top of him.


    They had started in the morning and ended well after sunset, the house was pitch black. All the candles and the fire had long died down.


    ¡°Should we try to sleep in the bed, the night is going to get pretty cold here on the floor.¡± Laurel said, although she made no effort to move. Roe waved his hand summoning a blanket from his dimensional space to drape over them.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I could be any more comfortable if I tried.¡± He said. Laurel smiled at him in the dark and kissed his chest before calling upon the Elemental spirits around them. Small green lights appeared before jumping into a couple of logs of wood, which promptly grew little branch feet, marched themselves over to the fireplace and jumped on the dying embers. The wood spirits fled the logs as the red fire spirits took their place. Soon a roaring fire illuminated the lovers, who promptly fell asleep in each other¡¯s embrace.


    Laureline awoke in the small hours of the morning, the fire had once again burned out returning them to darkness, but the room still held some warmth and the blanket Roe had summoned was enchanted to keep them comfortable, no matter the temperature.


    She studied his sleeping face, even in total darkness Elves, Dwarves and Trolls could see perfectly, they had infrared vision. Laurel touched Roe¡¯s chest and shoulders, her infrared vision didn¡¯t show the bite marks she left on him but they were there enhancing his sculpted beauty. Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    It was too bad Roe had lied to her.


    That was spatial magic, one of the four legendary magics, and he used it so casually to call a blanket. A blanket! No one who had that magic ever had to worry about cargo or storage, and no enchanter as talented as Roe needed to travel by ship. His being washed up on that beach was faked.


    Laurel began to wonder if she was his target all along, sent by her family to lure her back home or into a trap.


    No, someone as powerful and talented as he didn¡¯t have to cater to anyone and besides, an amused smile crossed her lips, someone who could wield a legendary magic but would still spend all day earnestly enchanting for the common people to earn an honest coin. That spoke volumes about Roe¡¯s character.


    ¡®He is lying to me, but I¡¯m lying to him too. I¡¯m terrified how he¡¯ll react when he finds out I¡¯m a¡­¡¯


    ¡°When did I last take it?¡± In a panic Laureline moved to get up but Roe¡¯s embrace tightened.


    ¡°Roe, honey I need to go to the outhouse.¡± Laurel pleaded. Roe pulled her closer so that their noses were touching before his baritone chuckle preceded his reply.


    ¡°No you don¡¯t, you¡¯re just nervous about how I¡¯ll react now your potion has worn off. Don¡¯t worry I¡¯ve known what you were before I bedded you Laurel, go back to sleep.¡± Laureline held very still, she had to cancel her infrared vision to realize Roe¡¯s eyes were still closed.


    ¡®Was he talking in his sleep?¡¯ She waited a few minutes to allow him to doze deeper then Laurel once again tried to ease out of his grip.


    ¡°Laureline!¡± She stopped moving again. The command in his voice was now unmistakable. One of his eyes slowly opened but instead of the human brown he had before a golden reptilian eye greeted her. A Dragon¡¯s eye.


    ¡°Go to sleep Laureline.¡±


    ¡°Y-you are¡­¡±


    ¡°Shhh. Someone is always listening, and if you draw attention they may start watching. I¡¯ll make a safe place where we can talk freely but that will be well after sunrise. So do you know what I want you to do now?¡±


    ¡°Go to sleep?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Ok.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡±


    Laureline awoke in her bed. The sun was climbing towards mid morning and the smell of breakfast pulled her out of her soft warm dreams. Laurel kicked off the covers and happily hopped out of bed heading to the outhouse, before stopping short in front of her mirror.


    Her Jet black skin, alabaster white hair and ruby red eyes stared back at her. It had been such a long time since she had missed taking her potion. Glamours could be seen through by strong enough magic vision so Laureline had invented a potion to physically change the color of her skin, hair and eyes. While her potion was a lot more limited than what a glamour could do since she started using it eight years ago no one had come to find her. Still she avoided living in the town and with other Elves.


    Living in the town would increase the chances of exposing herself, fortunately an Elf girl living in a forest didn¡¯t draw the wrong kind of attention. The town folks assumed their Elven Alchemist was part of an Elf village and since her valley was within the Dragon Lands none dared to visit so her secret was safe from them.


    Living with other Elves would have been impossible, Wood Elves were very sociable. The word ''nosey'' comes to mind, there was no secret that stayed that way for long in a wood elf village.


    ¡°He knows.¡± She said to her reflection.


    ¡°He¡¯s a ¡­¡± She stopped herself short. He had warned her about listening ears. He must have meant the Gods, which means he wasn¡¯t using Dragon Rules.


    ¡®Is he actually living as a Human?¡¯


    Laurel threw on a night shirt and left the bedroom. She bypassed the kitchen for the outhouse. Coming back once she was relieved Laurel leaned against the kitchen entrance and watched Roe cooking up a storm using magic so advanced it boggled her mind. He turned around and smiled at her, while laying out a spread on the table. Pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs, juice, coffee, toast, jams, butters.


    ¡°Eat up.¡± Roe said, gesturing to the table. Laureline hesitated before she in turn gestured to herself.


    ¡°This is me, the real me.¡±


    ¡°And she is beautiful.¡± Roe replied, holding his hand out to her. Laureline walked into his embrace shyly and Roe kissed her soundly.


    ¡°When do I get to meet the real you?¡±


    ¡°Do you want to have that meeting before or after breakfast?¡± Roe asked.


    Laurel''s stomach grumbled in angry protest and Roe was delighted to notice that her once red blush was now a purple one.


    ¡°After breakfast it is.¡± He laughed.


    After breakfast Laureline checked her flock and Paw, her Griffin mount, to make sure all was well. Fortunately her elemental spirits made sure the flock was looked after and Paw took care of himself. She then weeded her garden and collected the plants needed to make potions before heading back to the house.


    It had been a long time since she had been out without the potion masking her skin, it always felt slimy, like residue she couldn''t wash off. She felt fresh right now. With a bright smile she headed back to the cabin. Unknown to her beyond the treeline a shadowy figure observed her.


    "I can now confirm it''s her. She has finally stepped out without whatever she was using to change her appearance. Yes her secret will be a great boon to our Clan."


    By the time Laureline returned Roe had cleaned up after their meal and was waiting for her by a strange door in the hallway wall.


    "That''s new, where does it lead to?" She asked


    "Somewhere we can talk." Roe opened the door for her and Laurel walked out into a separate mist filled world. Roe closed the door behind him and Laureline immediately felt the absence of being observed. A feeling that was so ubiquitous she never noticed it was there. With the closing of the door the mist cleared for about 500 meters around them and Laureline gaped at what she saw. There was treasure everywhere: gold and silver coins, magical weapons, armors, a couple of sky skimmer vehicles, shelves of magical books and scrolls. A true hoard.


    Dragon Rule 20: ''Realm'' - Dragon Lords could create their own pocket dimension where the rules are what they make them. It was very similar to a God¡¯s Heavenly Plane except that Heavenly Planes were part of the Reality System so the Gods didn¡¯t have to put in effort to maintain them. For Dragon Lords the size and complexity of their Realm was proportional to how much energy they poured into creating and maintaining them.


    Of course Roeg-Hiam the Midnight, master of Mana knowledge, had a cheat. When he first experimented with the Dragon Rules he had noticed an energy gathering formation would allow him to maintain a Realm with no effort so he created one. Now he could make his Realm anything he wanted and adjust that formation to maintain his creation.


    "Is this your Realm?" Laureline asked.


    "Yes, I haven''t used it as anything more than storage thus far. But I''m thinking of setting it as a fall back safe house, and a way point." Roe told her.


    "I thought you were trying to avoid the scrutiny of the Gods, how can they not notice you maintaining a Realm. You must be radiating Mana like a sun." Laureline said, turning to watch him.


    Roe chuckled, he loved how quick she was.


    "I figured out how to make it self sufficient and we entered using human Spatial Magic not Dragon Rule. Every pocket dimension has a unique frequency. Even as a human I know my dimension''s frequency."


    "Ok then. I''m ready. Please show me your true self."


    "My name is Roeg-Hiam the Midnight ."


    Rather than a flash of light there was an implosion of darkness. And where Magister Roe once stood, a large black Dragon now laid.


    Laureline stared wide-eyed and began to walk around him. She touched his scales and found them warm. She was amazed by the specks of light twinkling in the depths of his scales, from a distance Roeg-Hiam looked like a patch of the night sky shaped like a Dragon with a name like ''the Midnight¡¯ she shouldn¡¯t have been surprised.


    Laureline estimated his length from snout to tail to approximately 70 feet. She finished her circuit and looked up at his golden glowing eyes.


    "You are phenomenal." She whispered.


    Roe smiled broadly and raised his snout in the air. His tail twitching happily.


    "Hell yeah, I am. So, are you interested in joining my harem?"


    "I have a choice? In front of true power nothing else really matters. I have heard stories of women a Dragon Lord has taken a liking to just vanishing. We lesser creatures have no recourse. Even Gods wouldn''t hear our case."


    "Well that''s just terrifying. I won''t be like that. Being with me is a privilege. If you don''t want it, feel free to leave."


    "You''d really let me go?"


    "Yip."


    "Somehow, that''s disappointing." Laureline said. Roeg-Hiam looked at her quizzically.


    "Explain."


    "A female wants to be wanted, to feel as if you couldn''t go on without her." Laureline''s response caused Roeg-Hiam to chuckle.


    "I thought you were more mature than that. It seems our young Drow princess read many romance novels in her youth. The mad love of which you speak is unhealthy."


    Laureline shoved against Roeg-Hiam''s much larger form, of course he didn¡¯t budge but the act gave her some catharsis.


    "Stop teasing me." She complained. Roeg-Hiam had no idea if she was trying to be this adorable. "It''s not wrong to crave romance." Laureline continued.


    "I''ll wine and dine you all you want, I''m the better cook anyway, but the choice of being my lover is yours." This was followed by another shove from Laurel. "That being said, I don''t believe in love at first sight. Love is something that grows." Roeg-Hiam finished.


    "Humph." Laureline pouted. "I accept your offer to join your harem. You may not be forcing me but just from my circumstances ¡­ well, your aid will greatly help."


    Roeg-Hiam lowered his head and nuzzled Laureline.


    "That''s what I like to hear. A simple marriage of convenience." He chuckled.


    Laureline stood back and folded her arms.


    "So¡­ what number am I. How many females are in your harem. Any monsters?"


    Roeg-Hiam looked around sheepishly, avoiding Laureline¡¯s eye as he replied.


    "One."


    "What was that, you''re mumbling."


    "One, you are my first." Roeg-Hiam admitted reluctantly.


    Laureline covered her mouth in surprise.


    "By the Gods, I''m your Matriarch?"


    "Yes."


    The Matriarch of a Dragon Lord''s harem was different from the concubines that followed. While a Dragon Lord would raze a Kingdom for his concubines his Matriarch had the Dragon Lord''s ear. Some people considered them to be the one true wife. A Dragon Lord would usually choose a long lived race or an immortal monster for this position since she was to be by their side the longest.


    Roeg-Hiam plucked the scale from between his brows, it was known as the ''Crown Scale'' Laureline watched fascinated as it regrew immediately. With a pulse of magic the Crown Scale now hung on a golden chain. Although the color changed depending on the Dragon Lord a Crown Scale necklace was the sign of a Matriarch.


    "Wear this, it is a sign of my favour. Other Dragons will understand you are spoken for."


    Laureline hugged his head and kissed him.


    "Thank you ... my husband."

 CHAPTER 5 - I INSIST YOU STAY

    CHAPTER 5 - I INSIST YOU STAY


    Roe and Laureline returned to her home and over the next few months he began serious renovations. As an enchanter, household appliances and modern conveniences were one of his greatest products. He decided to figure them out with Laureline before selling them in his future travels. As a result Laureline¡¯s cabin gained indoor plumbing, a modern kitchen and indoor magic lights.


    Roe created all of these marvels but Laureline directed their placements, directing him to shift stone and add rooms to truly reshape the cabin to her ideal, and she didn''t stop there. Every evening they would journey to Roeg-Hiam''s Realm and work on its layout.


    Roeg-Hiam''s Realm was now a large flat disc of ocean with a 50 square mile island in the middle. The island was a true garden of Eden. Every imaginable plant grew there. At the centre of the island was a cone shaped keep, an artificial mountain which served as Roeg-Hiam''s home. At the cathedral arched cave entrance stood several gigantic stone golems sculpted into knights. Laureline had insisted that the Realm needed protecting.


    "You never know when someone might stumble


    across your frequency." She insisted.


    The door that led to Laureline¡¯s cabin was embedded into a long blank hallway in the keep. Laureline¡¯s idea was to add more doors as he added more women. She warned him that having more women than days of the week may lead to problems. Roe decided her advice had merit, of course this world¡¯s calendar had 9 day weeks.


    Their new homes were not the only changes that had happened; the two went into a business agreement with the Wildorf family. Laureline had always sold her healing potions through the Wildorf General store, which was run by Ludlow and Kate Wildorf with assistance from their two kids, Ash and Steph.


    Laureline''s potions were the General store''s best selling products so she was able to negotiate with the Wildorfs to sell her and Roe¡¯s products for a percentage of the sales. The Wildorfs would also take orders, requests and down-payments for the couple.


    Roe would come into town once a week and fulfill the enchantment requests using one of the Store''s back rooms as his work area. Laureline expanded her range of products As an Alchemist she wasn''t limited to healing potions but she didn''t want to enable any criminal elements in the society so she avoided explosives, stealth, poison and polymorphic potions and focused on cosmetics and hygienic potions instead. Her shampoos, soaps and creams sold well but it was her vitality potion which put a ''pep in an older man''s step'' that was the real winner.


    As for Roe''s product line he aimed at the many adventures passing through Babel. Roe made magic lanterns which were basically flashlights, foldable magical hotplates with two burners, water conjuring flasks that refilled themselves once every 6 hours, insect repelling necklaces, magic compasses which pointed to the last place you said it''s magic word, temperature controlled blankets and his most popular item the backpack of holding. These backpacks were only 1 ft wide and 2ft high but they contained a 6ft square storage space and no matter what you filled it with, the most it ever weighed was 20 pounds.


    An evening Roe and Laureline were in the General store Roe was working on enchantment requests when he felt a peculiar vibration he''d never felt before.


    Dragon Lore:


    ¡®Alien incursion imminent.''


    Roe froze in his actions. An invasion like this is how the Dragon Lords came to this world. Another power may ruin the peaceful balance that currently existed.


    "Laurel, I think something really bad is happening. I''m heading out, don''t wait for me here, I''ll see you at home."


    Roe reached out to find the disturbance teleported while he activated all of his Dragon Rules, by the time the teleportation ended the human Magister Roe was replaced by the Dragon Lord Roeg-Hiam the Midnight .


    He was in the air over a Kingdom he''d never seen before high in the mountains. The town just outside of the Castle walls was bisected by a disc of energy. A gateway half buried like a plate in the sand.


    Roeg-Hiam observed the situation. ten Gods battled what could only be called a spaceship. A massive long grey shape was halfway out of the portal. Smaller attack fighters were flying about . 3 Gods applied a barrier to contain the smaller ships from getting out and ravaging the surrounding lands while the rest battled the invaders.


    Inside the barrier the Gods were not doing well, the sheer number of enemies was overwhelming them. The massive barrier also stopped the people from the Kingdom and its city from fleeing the battle. The invaders rained down destruction on Gods and mortals with abandon.


    Roeg-Hiam watched, debating if he should intervene when he noticed Zuriel, the Goddess he had met before. She was one of the 3 maintaining the barrier. Every energy blast or ship that crashed into the barrier taxed them.


    Zuriel looked up to Roeg-Hiam, he wasn''t hiding. Just lazily floating in the sky. Zuriel''s whisper was clear to him.


    "Help us!¡± she demanded. Roeg-Hiam inspected his claws, unperturbed.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    ¡°They will threaten your harem and hoard as they threaten our congregations.¡± Zuriel tried to convince him. Roeg-Hiam was thinking it over.


    ¡°Please." She finally asked politely. Her plea was followed by the barrier shattering.


    Roeg-Hiam expanded his Domain and dove through the clouds, the goddess was right the invaders were a threat but if she hadn¡¯t said please, he would have waited until they were dead before acting.


    As soon as the barrier was destroyed the Dreadnought deployed dropships which shot away from it. These would most likely hide themselves somewhere and then open more breaches so the invasion could spread like an infection.


    Before any of those ships could leave Roeg-Hiam''s domain they crumpled in upon themselves as gravity and heat crushed them into hot metal spheres about the size of basketballs. Roeg-Hiam spared no thought for the crew of those ships. Each one of them was coming to steal from him. Giving them a quick death was already mercy.


    Roeg-Hiam twisted space to pull the smaller attack crafts together before using a wave of heat to liquefy them.


    Roeg-Hiam tried the same gravity trick with the Dreadnought carrier but it resisted him, it''s anti-gravity field was too strong.


    The carrier opened fire on Roeg-Hiam but he twisted space around himself and returned it all. Under its own Barrage the carrier''s shields failed. Roeg-Hiam did not miss the opportunity to attack. Black shadow spikes appeared all around the ship and pierced it. Many explosions rocked the carrier as it tried to slowly move back through the breach but now that those invaders knew the location of this world Roeg-Hiam could not let it escape.


    "Since you came all this way I insist you stay, permanently!" With the carrier''s systems damaged, Roeg-Hiam once again used his gravity well. This time it was very effective, the carrier began to compress in upon itself until it was a sphere of metal roughly a few hundred metres in diameter. The metal burned and churned, melting away imperfections that were probably lesser materials, like the crew members.


    With the ship that was generating it gone, the breach quickly faded out of existence.


    From the kingdom below a roaring cheer went up.


    Roeg-Hiam flew down over the city outing fires started by stray volleys.


    Roeg-Hiam landed in front of the gathered Gods who had moved to a nearby mountain.


    The tallest of the golden beings had taken a height of twenty feet so Roeg-Hiam remained in his Draconian form. Of the ten Gods here Roeg-Hiam only recognised two, Zuriel and Woedel. These other eight immediately took defensive stances as he approached. One going so far to level a spear at him. Roeg-Hiam recognised her as Asturiel, her face looked young but her body was mature perfection. Her overall atmosphere was of a person who had recently blossomed into womanhood.


    "You will retract your domain at once Dragon Lord. These are the God Lands, we will not be threatened here!" Asturiel demanded while brandishing her weapon..


    Roeg-Hiam was not impressed. He leaned toward the Goddess threateningly.


    "I''m not so trusting to drop my guard when faced with ungrateful little shits."


    The tension in the air grew. Roeg-Hiam''s domain was abnormally large, the only way to fight a Dragon Lord was for some of the Gods to get outside of his domain to support the ones inside.


    "Everybody step back and take a breath. I asked for his help." Zuriel commanded as she moved to the front, pushing the spear tip away from Roeg-Hiam before turning to face the Dragon Lord herself.


    "Roeg-Hiam the Midnight I presume, in the magnificence of your true form. Thank you for your aid, what brings you back to the God Lands?"


    Although his expression seemed indifferent, the tip of Roeg-Hiam¡¯s tail started to wag. All the Gods noticed the change and the tension disappeared.


    "Ahem." Roeg-Hiam cleared his throat, after stopping his traitorous tail.


    "It''s about my territory, I had no method of contacting you Gods but when I felt the disturbance I figured a God would be here."


    "Ah I see. Woedel is the God who manages the Dragon territories. You and he can negotiate while the rest of us will begin restoration of the land now that the incursion is over." Zuriel motioned to the Gods to move out. Most teleported to the city and began repairs and resurrections. Zuriel, Asturiel and Woedel remained.


    "Dragon Lord Roeg-Hiam, can I trouble you to sell some of that Orichalcum?" Zuriel asked him.


    Roeg-Hiam pointed at the larger burning sphere of metal that was once the Dreadnought and the smaller ones, made from the dropships along with the floating liquid metal that was the attack ships rushed together to meld into one. The sphere quickly cooled. Into a yellow metal.


    Dragon Lore:


    Purified Orichalcum, perfectly conducts energy.


    Fantastic for crafting magical items.


    "Orichalcum is the ultimate treasure, Dragon Lords are only interested in treasure and beautiful females. So what are you, a beautiful female Goddess, offering me, a Dragon Lord, so that I would part with the ultimate treasure?" Roeg-Hiam inquired.


    Zuriel''s smile was strained.


    "You are not the first Dragon Lord to want to add a Goddess to his harem but I refuse to be the first Goddess to succumb."


    She tossed him a square tile with her effigy on one side and her sigil on the other.


    "If I can think of something to trade. I''ll contact you."


    Unlike the other Gods she walked down the mountain rather than teleport. Asturiel followed her, keeping eyes on the Dragon Lord.


    Roeg-Hiam ignored Asturiel''s hostility and blatantly watched Zuriel''s ass as she left.


    Woedel cleared his throat to get Roeg-Hiam''s attention.


    "What is the issue with your territory Dragon Lord?"


    "Basically I really love the sea but my territory is landlocked. I need to exchange it with another."


    Woedel waved his hand and a very accurate map of the Dragon Lands appeared.


    The locals called their world Earth but having come from another Earth Roeg-Hiam a hard time doing that, referred to this world as New-Earth. New-Earth had two ice caps and one large continent aptly named Pangea which mostly wrapped itself around the equator. The Dragon Lands and the rest of Pangea were separated the same way North and South America were, by a thinner piece of land. The town of Babel was just before this land bridge, and it was here Adventurers would make their fortune hunting monstrous beasts.


    Roeg-Hiam realised that this wasn''t an actual map but a true vision of what was happening in the Dragon Lands when he recognised several spheres of nothing moving about. Dragon Lords were most likely at the centre of each sphere.


    "Does anyone hold the territory here?" Roeg-Hiam asked, pointing at the land bridge.


    "Well no, it''s not enough land for most Dragon Lords. I would not want to short change you Roeg-Hiam." A Dragon Lord''s territory was usually 100,000 square km. The land bridge''s length was about 118,000 km but it''s area was barely 7,000 square km.


    "Well give me the entire bridge, its surrounding seas and all these islands over here." Roeg-Hiam said as he tried to look nonchalant, if you counted the seas Roeg-Hiam''s territory would be over 800 billion square km.


    With just the developed islands and the small Land bridge the taxes Roeg-Hiam would be able to levy would be a pittance but Roe had learned that the Underdark below the seas of that area was a highly developed urban mecha.


    ¡®A Black Dragon ruling the underworld sounds about right.¡¯ Roeg-Hiam chuckled to himself, since no other Dragon Lord had ever wanted the land bridge, sea or the islands there were no issues for the transfer.


    Wodel changed Roeg-Hiam''s deed and the very happy Black Dragon left.

 CHAPTER 6 - REJOICE

    CHAPTER 6 - REJOICE


    Roe returned to the town of Babel, once again as his human form. The battle had happened quickly. Although the loss of life had been heavy, barely 20 minutes had passed, he had hoped to catch Laurel before she had left the General store but Kate told him he had just missed her.


    Roe stayed and completed his Enchanting back list of requests before heading home to Laureline¡¯s valley which was now in his new territory. He was looking forward to the look on Laurel''s face when he told her. Unlike his original territory which only had a few nomadic tribes his new territory was fully developed and he just had to take the reigns. Many of his new islands had colonies from several Kingdoms. There were often epic sea and airship battles over shipping lanes and settlements. While undecided on whether or not he was going to stop any of that Roeg-Hiam was sure that whomever was on his Islands would start paying him to be there.


    While working and planning his future a large man with wild red hair walked into the store. Roe expected Kate to intercept the customer so he was surprised when the man walked into his back room and sat down on the bench.


    "Well met little brother, I am Doeleung the Azure."


    The Azure, this was another Dragon Lord.


    "Well met, I am Roeg-Hiam the Midnight."


    "Midnight? Oh my, a black, how delightful." Doleung''s face lit up. It seemed black Dragons were rare.


    "How did you find me, I''ve been avoiding the Gods¡¯ scrutiny by not using the Dragon Rules."


    "I followed you back after you helped the Gods during the invasion. Don''t be concerned, only another Dragon Lord could have done that." Doeleung reassured Roe when he saw his concern.


    "I''ve come to invite you to meet the other Dragon Lords. Although they are hard to corral, like cats, I''ll invite the rest over for a meet and greet. Can you make yourself available for my call?"


    Roe happily accepted the invitation.


    "I would enjoy that greatly. I''ve been curious about the other Dragon Lords, since I awakened I''ve yet to run into any."


    "Good, here." Doeleung handed Roeg-Hiam a tile, like the one the Goddess had given him, this one also had his effigy on one side and his sigil on the other. Doleung''s effigy was his true form.


    Where Roeg-Hiam''s body was more in-line with how European Dragons were imagined, like a top heavy dinosaur with horns and bat wings. Doeleung seemed a lot more Oriental in his origin. His face was gold, his horns were more like short antlers, he had a bright red mane around his head which trailed along the ridge of his long sinuous azure body and he had four huge paws, each with 5 claws.


    "I''ll listen out for your call brother." Roeg-Hiam said before Doeleung teleported away.


    ''I need to create a Sigil for myself as a Dragon Lord and another for myself as a Mage.'' Roe thought to himself. After finishing his enchanting he began on creating his Sigils. It was nearly sunset when he finished and departed for home.


    Roe teleported to the cabin and instantly felt how off everything was. It was too quiet, there was a smell of ozone and sulphur in the air. Slowly turning around and scanning the scene he noticed burn marks on the grass, that Paw, the Griffin''s stable was broken open and that there was blood splatter in certain places. No bodies he noted. Roe quickly entered the cabin. The door was broken and the interior a mess. Paw the Griffin lay in the rubble, he had been tossed through the window and broke the dining table but he was still breathing. Roe scanned the building but no one else was here so he stopped to help the ailing beast. Healing magic poured through Paw''s system repairing its lungs bones and torn ligaments.


    Paw opened its eyes to see Roe and rubbed its head against him with great affection before painfully getting up and heading to the hallway to the magic door that led to Roe''s Realm. This was a good sign. The door stood open showing a blank wall, another good sign. Only when he or Laureline opened the door did it lead anywhere. Roe closed the door before reopening it to his Realm.


    He found a stone knight guarding the door. It stepped aside for him.


    After letting Paw into the Realm he closed the door and headed to the kitchen.


    When Roe walked in Laureline left her tea and jumped into his arms. Soaking up his warmth.


    "Are you ok?" He asked.


    "Yes, it''s just Paw." She sobbed. The big Griffin poked his head into the kitchen at the mention of his name.


    Laurel rushed past Roe to bury herself in her Griffin''s soft feathers.


    "Who was it Laurel?" Roe asked as he made himself some tea.


    "I think it was my clan they were trying to capture me.


    Paw saw me under attack and broke out of his stable to protect me.


    They didn''t show him the same level of mercy and I used his distraction to escape." Laureline returned to the table with Paw following. He laid down next to the long lunch table they were using and fell asleep.


    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    "Why didn''t you use the Crown scale to call me?"


    "You were so concerned. I''d never even heard of a Dragon Lord being worried, I didn''t want to distract you at a critical moment."


    Roe shook his head.


    "You would not have been a distraction, I have options as long as I know something is wrong."


    "I''m no damsel in distress. I held my own against ten elite Knights out there." Even as she said that Laureline looked to the now sleeping Paw. He had nearly died today.


    Roe didn¡¯t bring this up.


    "No one is accusing you of being weak, I''m just reminding you that you are no longer alone. Speaking of which, even if you did not want to call me back, why didn''t you show them the Crown scale to stop the attack?" Was there actually someone foolish enough to ignore the threat of a Dragon Lord?


    "You are hiding from the Gods. I didn''t want to take it out and give you away." At Laureline¡¯s reply Roe looked incredulous.


    "I''m sorry if I gave you the impression that my playing around in the human Kingdoms is more important than your life," Roe reached across the table and held Laurel¡¯s hand. "it is not." The two of them were silent, holding hands and enjoying the warm moment.


    Roe sat back and downed his tea. He had made up his mind.


    "Let''s go solve this problem right away. We will announce you as my Matriarch. As you said I don''t want to lose my Magister Roe identity so I''m going to need a new form when I''m conducting Dragon Lord business in smaller areas. Maybe a Drow to match you?"


    Laureline blushed before making a suggestion.


    "I still haven''t seen your Dragon-Newt form. Isn''t ¡®moving around lesser species to do business¡¯ what it¡¯s for?"


    "Dragon-Newt?" Roe was confused; he searched but there is nothing in his Dragon Lore about it.


    "I read about it in the Hot News Herald. Goddess Zuriel''s monthly publication. Basically you keep the Dragon head and wings, and put them on a human body. Lose the tail, it''s havoc when trying to sit down." Laurel said proudly.


    "Why does ''Hot News Herald'' sound like some kind of gossip rag?"


    Laureline¡¯s blush deepened.


    "Because it is. The church puts it out monthly. It brings in the most tithes."


    "Either way, help me design my new form."


    Laureline was delighted. They decided he should be a little larger than his human form and keep his star speckled black scales all over his body. As for clothing choice Laurel suggested he should be formal and was amazed when he started applying different business wear from his former world. She had never seen anything like a 3 piece suit or a tailored trench coat. In the end Roeg-Hiam ended up wearing a red dress shirt, black tie and vest with a white coat, pants and shoes. He topped off the look with a red scarf, which he let drape over his coat, the overall look was slick. Roe used his Magic to craft a red form fitting dress with a luxurious white fur coat for Laureline. He also removed the effect of her transformation potion and did her hair in an intricate updo.


    Laureline got Roeg-Hiam to craft a painting of the two of them dressed like this to go over the fireplace.


    "This is lovely." She said. "Can we put off our trip until tomorrow? I''m just tired."


    "Of course love. You do look stunning and I need to put this new body through its paces." Roeg-Hiam said to her with a wicked smirk. Laureline took his arm and the couple retired to the master bedroom to lose themselves first in pleasure and then sleep.


    The next afternoon Roeg-Hiam and Laureline left his Realm riding in a black carriage driven by black and red faceless magical golems, the same as the ones working as servants in his Realm. The carriage was drawn by two fire elementals that Roeg-Hiam had constructed into the shape of massive horses using Earth, Fire, Air and Wood spirits.


    When he had made them Laureline let out a deafening squeal before begging, seducing and demanding he teach her, all in one breath.


    "Please please please; I''ll be so appreciative; you must teach me!"


    Laureline had never seen Sorcery of this level. Summoning and controlling elemental spirits was one thing but combining the spirits into elemental constructs? Why had she had never heard of such a thing before. How was it done? She needed to know.


    Fortunately Roeg-Hiam did not tease her and agreed to teach her later. So they were finally able to set out.


    Everything belonging to Reog-Hiam was marked with his new crest, an inverted Triangle intertwined with a Mobius, the symbol for infinity. Above the triangle was a simplified 3 point crown. Roeg-Hiam had used his knowledge of Mana to integrate the symbol into himself. Just by drawing it or pouring energy into this mark you would gather Roeg-Hiam''s attention similar to how a demon could be called via their mark but much weaker. No one could summon nor control him.


    They appeared near an entrance to the Underdark within Roeg-Hiam''s territory. He had told Laueline about his new territory last night during their pillow talk, she was delighted that she didn''t have to move but was glad to have the option to do so.


    Before entering the Underdark Roeg-Hiam took out his deed and activated it.


    REJOICE,


    THIS TERRITORY HAS BEEN CLAIMED BY DRAGON LORD ROEG-HIAM THE MIDNIGHT.


    Those words were heard by everyone in Roeg-Hiam''s territory, from the Adventurers in the forest to the nobles on the islands. Evey clan and monstrous beast and even those in the Underdark below his lands were in his Territory, they now knew they had a new Sovereign.


    "Lets go.'''' The carriage continued into the entrance. This entrance actually lead to the Dwarven city of Nilbrae. As such it was actually quite well developed. There were two lines outside of the mountains on the road to enter the underdark. A gate with dwarven guards acted as a checkpoint. Pedestrians were in one line while carts and carriages were in another. Roeg-Hiam''s carriage ignored the lines and went straight to the front of the gate. There was a lot of murmuring and complaining in the lines and the guards moved to stop his entry. Roeg-Hiam opened his window and stuck his head out. Overwhelming power rolled off of him. It was the kind of power that could only be summoned by high class Demons, Gods, and Dragon Lords. Everything went silent. Roeg-Hiam said nothing, he just stared unblinking at the guards.


    The golem riding shotgun in the cart announced.


    "Make way for Dragon Lord Roeg-Hiam the Midnight ."


    The guard felt like he could strangle the golem.


    "Apologies Sovereign, I''ll inform the Captain to escort you. Uh, pray tell, where are you going?"


    "The Sovereign heads to the Underdark." The golem replied in Roeg-Hiam''s stead.


    "Hold." Laureline¡¯s melodious voice came from within the carriage. All necks craned toward her when she peeked out from behind Roeg-Hiam. Even among the beautiful Elves Laureline was a stunner. Her smile nearly offset the stifling power Roeg-Hiam was radiating.


    "It would be rude not to pay our respects to the city lord, my husband."


    Roeg-Hiam nodded.


    "The Dragon Lord will meet with the city lord before heading to the Underdark." The golem valet announced.


    The guard captain and his troop had been informed of the situation and they quickly came out to be an escort.


    The city lord was awaiting them.


    "Greetings Sovereign I am Urthbrakr Rubyfist. We heard your announcement not long ago I am honoured to be the first to greet you. Are you perhaps thinking of making my city your headquarters that would be a great honour."


    "Well met Lord Rubyfist. My Matriarch and I are just passing through." The muppet valet held the door as Roeg-Hiam stepped out of the carriage. He turned and held a hand out to his Matriarch Laureline who followed him with immense grace. Despite how unassuming and simple her lifestyle had seemed it was obvious she was born to rule.


    "Well met Lord Rubyfist, it has been a long time." Laureline greeted the city lord warmly. The old dwarf was taken aback.


    "Lady Laureline of clan Golden Silk?" Rubyfist was all smiles as Laureline walked over and gave him an affectionate hug.


    "Milord you know I left my clan long ago, and now I''m of house Midnight." She replied as she returned to Roeg-Hiam''s side. Lord Rubyfist looked at the Dragon Scale necklace Laureline wore and his smile broadened.


    "Congratulations lass!" Lord Rubyfist said to Laureline before addressing Roeg-Hiam.


    "I''ve known Lady Laureline all her life, she was always fascinated with the surface. She and her mother would spend the first month of spring in my city. My own children would often accompany her."


    "He''s like an uncle to me, husband may we stay awhile I''d like to catch up."


    "I''d be fascinated by tales of young Laureline. Lord Rubyfist what have you to drink."


    They all adjourned to lord Rubyfist''s office for fine drinks, which led into an early dinner before Laureline and Roeg-Hiam continued on their journey.

 CHAPTER 7 - SO WE ARE A TEAM THEN

    CHAPTER 7 - SO WE ARE A TEAM THEN


    City lord Rubyfist requested to send an honor guard with them. Roeg-Hiam was usually low key but he needed to make an impression so he allowed it. Between Roeg-Hiam''s aura and their grim dwarven escort their trip through the Underdark was uneventful. It would take them a week to make it to the Drow lands. If not for the Dwarven escort the trip would only take 3 days but Roeg-Hiam did not complain after all there was a door to his Realm built inside the carriage. He and Laureline spent most of the day there. He spent that time educating Laureline on Greater Sorcery while the carriage moved through the Underdark making a show.


    Two days into their journey Roeg-Hiam received a message from Doleung the Azure, the missive included coordinates, a date and time. The date was two days hence.


    At first Laureline was ecstatic, going into a frenzy, choosing clothes and agonizing over a gift.


    Roe looked into his Dragon Lore and dissuaded her from giving a gift. Dragon Lords were proud and oftentimes tried to one-up each other, he¡¯d rather not start that. Seeing Laureline getting more and more nervous Roe couldn¡¯t help but to tease her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry love if a fight breaks out, It¡¯ll be a friendly tussle, I doubt anyone will use any entropy bombs¡­ probably.¡± She promptly smacked him.


    ***


    Roeg-Haim and Laureline teleported to the coordinates high into the sky. Below them was a magnificent crystal mountain, like a cone shaped gothic cathedral.


    ¡°Oh Roe, it¡¯s like your mountain in the Realm.¡± Laureline said as she hugged his bicep tighter.


    The two of them were dressed more casually than most meetings. Laureline was wearing white boots and leggings with a black sleeveless tunic dress and a white over coat. Roe was in his Dragon-Newt form but wore a white V-neck sweater, the back was specially designed to handle his wings. The rest of his ensemble consisted of a pair of blue jeans and white sneakers. Once again Laureline had noted that she had never seen footwear like this before and he had promised to make some for her when they returned.


    On a balcony on the Mountain lair a giant banner declared ¡°Welcome¡± so Roe angled their glide toward it. A beautiful female Elf awaited them. She wore a black loose fitting toga synced at the waist with a thick blue sash and blue slippers on her feet. The toga was delightfully short, falling just below the curve of her behind.


    ¡°Greetings Milord and ¡­ Lady, my name is Fiola please follow me.¡± Although subtle, Roeg-Hiam didn¡¯t miss the pause in the greeting nor how the Elf side-eyed his Drow Matriarch.


    The Elf led them into the mountain. The passage was lit with many colours via veins of crystals embedded in the walls. Laureline marveled at the splendor around them while Roe just enjoyed watching the sway of their guide¡¯s hips.


    The passage opened into a massive cavern with 3 levels, they had entered on the second level where people milled about, where there was a buffet and seating. To the left on the first level was a lake, where a few dragons happily swam in their true but smaller forms and ladies of various races joined them. And to the right on the third and highest level sat the host Doeleung in his massive true form.


    Their Elven guide bowed to the room, an act that let Roe know she had foregone underwear, and announced them.


    ¡°Lord Roeg-Hiam the Midnight.¡±


    All heads turned their way. There were 44 other Dragon Lords present. All of which took a Dragon Newt form and came over to introduce themselves. Roe was surprised at how friendly and welcoming they all were.


    Looking around Roe realised that the Dragon¡¯s colours corresponded to the 7 elements; Earth (browns), Fire (reds), Wind (Whites), Water (blues), Wood (greens), Light (golds) and Dark (blacks).


    He was also shocked to find out there were only two Black Dragons there. Himself and another one which stood to the back of the crowd, wide-eyed in disbelief.


    Roe noted the other Black Dragon Lord''s Matriarch who was clutching to her Lord with tears running down her cheeks, a raven haired beauty with alabaster skin and luminous red eyes. She was a Vampire, but rather than cold and aloof she seemed vibrant. She looked back and forth between Roe and her Lord while hopping up and down.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    The crowd stilled and parted, clearing a path between the two. They stood studying each other, the elder Dragon''s scales were matte black but Roe noticed that every breath he took the space between his scales glowed red, as if his lungs were the bellows to some inner furnace.


    When neither of them moved forward. Doeleung walked to the elder Dragon and draped his arm over him.


    "Brother Bo, your flight finally has a second member, don''t be shy. Introduce yourself."


    The elder Dragon Lord walked forward, gathering himself to his full Dragon Newt height.


    "Well met younger brother I am Bo-Gradoom the Umbra."


    "Roeg-Hiam the Midnight, well, met." The two shook hands.


    ¡°Am I to assume you are my sire? I thought we Dragons don¡¯t put much clout into that.¡±


    Bo-Gradoom laughed, his tension bleeding away.


    ¡°Indeed I am your Sire, but you are correct, we Dragon Lords don''t care for such things, just call me Brother like all the rest. Over the millenia many Black Dragons have been born but for some silly reason ¡®Black¡¯ creatures are usually seen as ill omen on this world. You are the first of the Black Dragons to last long enough to pass the trials and gain sentience.¡±


    Roe digested this information, Dragon Lore had let him know nothing on the survival rates of Dragons according to their colours.


    ¡°Dragon Lore tells me ¡®Flights¡¯ are family units. So we are a team then, elder brother Bo.¡± Bo-Gradoom¡¯s smile was so wide his eyes were closed.


    ¡°Yes we are!¡±


    A cheer went up from the other Dragon Lords.


    The party went into full swing after that meeting, Roe spoke of his travels and heard of adventures other Dragon Lords had.


    After mingling for a while the ladies broke away from their Dragon Lords. Mathilde, Bo-Gradoom¡¯s Vampire Matriarch took Laureline by hand and led her over to a seating area and the other Matriarchs followed. Golems quickly popped out of the ground to serve the ladies drinks and finger foods while the females engaged in hushed conversation and intermittent raucous laughter.


    The Dragon Lords headed to the upper floor, they were each followed by a female Elf dressed in togas that matched the colours of the Dragon Lord they were assigned to serve. The same Elf that had been his guide, Fiola, was by his side during the event. She got him what he asked for, all the while giving him lusty looks.


    On the upper floor of the cave the Dragon Lords gave into their competitive nature engaging in numerous games.


    Roe was shocked to see table tennis, darts, as well as variations of Foosball, pinball and a plethora of card games.


    Roeg-Hiam noticed they had no variations of Pool or Billiards, he quickly created a table and all the items needed for a game. After explaining the rules and giving some demonstrations Roeg-Hiam took a back seat and watched. The Dragon Lords caught on quickly and very soon became skilled. Roeg-Hiam made a few more tables and a tournament began.


    Icoden, a White Dragon Lord, won the competition. The next event that happened came out of talks of their travels. The Dragon Lords took turns singing songs they picked up over their lifetimes. The ladies present were amazed, all the Dragon Lords had wonderful singing voices. When it was Roeg¡¯s turn he performed one of his favourite songs from his past life, one he sang often at karaoke. ¡®So Good¡¯ by Al Jarreau. He locked eyes with Laureline in the audience and sang just to her. By the end of his rendition the atmosphere was cozy.


    Soon afterwards the party began to break up. Roeg-Hiam, Bo-Gradoom and Doeleung saw off the others. Roeg-Hiam was there to collect and share contact information. Bo-Gradoom stood in solidarity with Roeg-Hiam, as the proud leader of their very small Flight. Doeleung was seeing everyone off as the host.


    It came as no surprise to Roeg-Hiam that Doeleung offered the girls that were acting as servants as gifts to their corresponding Dragon Lords.


    Each Dragon Lord left happily with his Matriarch and a new member for his Harem. Up until Roeg-Hiam.


    "No thank you." Roeg-Hiam refused directly. Doleung''s smile faltered. Seeing this Roeg-Hiam turned to Bo-Gradoom.


    "Was that rude? Should I have accepted Fiola and then disposed of her later?"


    Bo-Gradoom was obviously going to accept his Elf, he held her to one side and his Vampire Matriarch on the other while thoroughly caressing both their asses.


    "It is better to refuse than to treat her badly." Bo-Gradoom replied before posing a question.


    "I do however wonder, what''s your reason for refusing?"


    "Fiola will bring strife and unrest to my harem and I don''t need that." Roeg-Hiam replied.


    Doeleung''s Matriarch, a Nine Tail Fox Demon named Saiya, was panicked.


    "Lord Roeg-Hiam, all of these girls were trained by me personally. I guarantee all of them would make a great addition to any harem. Fiola is by far my best student. I trained her well enough to be a Matriarch herself."


    "I''m sure you did a great job Lady Saiya, let''s find out from Fiola herself, why she looks at my Matriarch with disdain." All eyes turned to Fiola who was caught in a dilemma.


    To lie to a Dragon Lord was a death sentence but confessing she found the Drow people an inferior Elven race and that Laureline didn''t deserve to be the Matriarch to a mighty Dragon Lord. Fiola had every intention of undermining Laureline and taking the role of Matriarch for herself admitting this would not be much better.


    "Ara, ara." Mathilde said, looking disappointed.


    Fiola immediately dropped to the ground apologising profusely. Fiola quickly confessed to her prejudices and her plan. It was best she did it herself, rather than let Lady Mathilde do it. Fiola had forgotten that the pretty goth gyrating on Lord Bo-Gradoom''s thigh was one of the oldest most powerful vampires in the world. For Mathilde reading minds was second nature.


    Doeleung''s face was like thunder and Lady Saiya''s wasn''t much better.


    "I am sorry Lord Roeg-Hiam, it seems I raised a viper." Lady Saiya said. "Please let me make this right."


    Roeg-Hiam shook his head.


    "Lady Saiya there is no need to apologize. If you wish to make it up to me, then I beg for leniency on Fiola''s behalf."


    "Fine, we''ll see to it she learns a little humility, rather than just eliminating her." Doeleung replied.


    Roeg-Hiam didn¡¯t like the sound of that but decided he had caused the blue Dragon Lord enough embarrassment.


    Roeg-Hiam and Laureline returned to their carriage which was nearing its destination.

 CHAPTER 8 - I AM LITERALLY TWO DOORS AWAY

    CHAPTER 8 - I AM LITERALLY TWO DOORS AWAY


    Word had spread fast. People lined the streets of Intricate Web City to welcome their new Sovereign.


    "I seem a little too popular for the amount of time I''ve been in power." Roeg-Hiam confessed to his Matriarch.


    Laureline smiled at him, she had figured out long ago that Roe was a newly awakened Dragon Lord. Sometimes he seemed old and wise like he had already lived a full lifetime but other times he seemed totally clueless at how the world worked. She found the latter to be a turn-on and the former to be cute as hell.


    "Husband, you do not understand the boon to living in a territory that''s been claimed by a Dragon Lord. You''ve brought stability just by being here. City Lords fight over territory and resources but all that now belongs to you."


    Roeg-Hiam used Dragon Rule 11: Sense. He usually employed this Rule to know everything in his immediate vicinity but by putting more Mana into it he was able to gain an overview of the world around him. Paying close attention to his Territory he noticed all major conflicts had ceased. The fleets that fought in the seas around his islands had retreated to strongholds and were in holding patterns while their leaders debated what to do.


    "Huh, you¡¯re right. We''ll need to go on a tour when this is dealt with. Let my new subjects know what is required of them."


    "Yes," Laureline looked melancholy. "If you were here my Clan would have never gotten away with what they did." She finished. Roeg-Hiam held her close but said nothing.


    The Underdark was vast and spanned the entire continent. The Intricate Web City was directly under the seas surrounding the land bridge. The Drow had built their capital city here to avoid the influence of the Dragon Lords but with Roeg-Hiam''s claim they had failed.


    Intricate Web City, or the IWC as its residents called it, lived up to its name. It was massive and complex, the main road was as wide as a 4 lane highway and only served as a strand in the web. The city had eight levels each with a similar road network plus the roads that led to different levels.


    A Drow troop met their group and took the lead to guide them to the council chamber. As the Drow capital city many clans resided and did business here so having a city lord was impossible. Instead there was a city council made up of each powerful Clan. Both subtle and overt political maneuvering was abundant, it was by Killing the Orb Weaver Clan and taking over their territories that the Golden Silk Clan became the third most powerful member of the council.


    The five Council members and their staff bowed deeply as Roeg-Hiam''s intimidating carriage came to a stop. The gothic lines of the carriage screamed wealth but it was the massive burning elemental horses that whispered power. The councillors waited nervously, by now word had spread that Roeg-Hiam the Midnight''s Matriarch was a Drow, depending on her Clan none of them may survive this meeting but they did not dare to be absent, an insult like that would be the end of their Clan.


    Roeg-Hiam stepped down from his carriage, once again dressed to impress. Today everything he wore was white. In the Underdark by the light of his burning horses Roeg-Hiam the Midnight glowed. A vision of loveliness descended the stairs behind him. Like her husband she was also dressed in all white. The long lost lady Laureline of the Clan Golden Silk.


    The other councillors looked around to each other. ''How had Golden Silk pulled this off, were they destined to rise further?''


    Counselor Dorn of Golden Silk straightened his clothing before reaching out with a happy smile.


    "My daughter¡­"


    "No one gave you permission to speak." Roeg-Hiam''s tone was frosty. The entire council was confused. Although Laureline had run from her Clan she wasn''t hostile to them but somehow Counselor Dorn was in the Dragon Lord¡¯s bad book.


    Roeg-Hiam walked to the head Counselor, her name was Kylia, she was from Clan Water Strider. She jumped to remember her etiquette.


    "Greetings Sovereign welcome to the IWC."


    Roeg-Hiam nodded his head, marched past her, went through a series of rooms and directly to the council chamber where he sat at the head of the table. Laureline had been right behind him but the councillors had been caught flat-footed and had to run to catch up.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    "Sit." he commanded. The councillors rushed for the usual seats. Counselor Kylia was unsure of where she should be, but after seeing one of her people fetch a chair for Matriarch Laureline to sit at Roeg-Hiam''s right hand Kylia decided to stand behind her. When everyone was settled Roeg-Hiam spoke again.


    "I''ll be borrowing your seat, Counselor Kylia, you can take Counselor Dorn''s for now, since he needs to stand. My business here is passing Judgement on him as the current head of Clan Golden Silk."


    Counselor Dorn got to his feet shakily and Kylia quickly took his place.


    "Sovereign what happened between us and the Orb Weaver Clan was long ago and no sign of disrespect." Dorn pleaded.


    "While despicable, that was before I took power and thus not my concern. What is my concern was the last time you sent your minions to kidnap your daughter back to your Clan. Your attack was so sudden she didn''t have time to show her Crown Scale and the cabin that was destroyed was our home." Roeg-Hiam had exaggerated both the ferocity of the battle and the damage done but no one else had been there to see it for themselves. The council and their retinue all sucked in a breath through their teeth, resulting in an audible unintended ''hiss''.


    "Sovereign of course that wasn''t us¡­" Dorn got that far before Roeg-Hiam''s right hand snapped up to point at him. A marble sized sun was on the tip of his finger. It occurred to everyone that Dorn had signed his own death warrant by lying to a Dragon Lord. Laureline¡¯s small dark hand came to rest on Roe¡¯s white clad bicep and the blinding little sun dimmed before going out.


    Laureline stood and looked her father in the eye for the first time since that sad wedding day.


    "The Golden Silk Clan was unaware that I was a Matriarch when they attacked so the Clan will not be destroyed. However half of the Clan''s treasury will be taken as compensation for the destruction of our cabin.


    Eldar Dorn for lying to your Sovereign you are relieved of your place on this Council and Exiled from this city upon penalty of death should you ever be caught within the IWC''s limits. Leave."


    Dorn was shell-shocked. Being removed from the council and exiled from the city took him out of the heart of power, he couldn''t make timely decisions from their ancestral home, his leadership of the Golden silk Clan and all his ambitions were at an end.


    Some of the Golden Silk Clan members moved to get Dorn out of Roeg-Hiam''s sight. Laureline recognised most of them, inner circle members of the Clan.


    "Aunt Mabrin." Laureline called out to an older Drow lady pushing Dorn out the door.


    "Stay, you will take father¡¯s place on the Council." Mabrin looked around wildly before she thought to respond.


    "Yes Matriarch Midnight." She said loudly with a deep bow.


    ¡°Aunt Mabrin, there is no need to be so formal, you can still call me Laurel.¡±


    From there Roeg-Hiam showed them how to contact him through his Sigil and went through their ledgers to determine how much tax the City would pay to him at the beginning of each year, he had had a similar discussion with City Lord Rubyfist.


    They stayed in Intricate Web City for nearly a month. Laureline enjoyed being back amongst her people she was seen everywhere, there were dances and dinners, meetings, luncheons and tours but as this continued Roeg-Hiam was seen with her less and less. In truth he had grown bored with the bowing, scraping and brown nosing so he returned to the Cabin to repair it and he was now studying the two Sky Skimmers he had plundered from sunken cargo ships.


    In this world Airships were a reality. Advanced magic allowed for ships that were both seaworthy and could fly, the limitation of weight determined how much Magic was needed to become airborne. This is why most full cargo ships still sailed the seas. While Roeg-Hiram was the master of Mana and could improve on all the Airships systems he didn¡¯t know a thing about mechanics so he dissected the Sky Skimmers to learn. Sky Skimmers were the size of rowboats and floated about twenty feet off of the ground. The extremely wealthy used them to travel quickly around large Kingdoms. Roe studied their floatation runes and control schemes and built his own variation of an Airship.


    He made a massive 70 meter black and gold Bullet shaped Yacht and put his sigil on the side to be the vehicle of Roeg-Hiam the Midnight and Laureline¡¯s unofficial transport. He enchanted it to be bigger on the inside and added every luxury and many magical Automatons, it was basically a floating castle.


    He made a much smaller 30 meter one, this one coloured a simple sky blue, to be the vehicle of Magister Roe this one was piloted manually, of course he had an automaton co-pilot but that was just a safety measure, this was a simple houseboat.


    Outside of the cabin Magister Roe¡¯s Sky skimmer floated. He had packed up and mothballed the cabin, crafted Elementals to guard the valley and said his farewells to the people of Babel. Laureline''s Griffin and her flock of sheep had taken up residence in his Realm, it was time to move on. As he climbed up to the Airship the cabin door opened and Laureline walked out. She was wearing simple clothing and ran over to embrace and kiss him.


    They stood like that for a little while.


    ¡°I got carried away didn¡¯t I?¡± She finally said. ¡°I¡¯ve always liked too much attention.¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Roe replied. ¡°You were born to rule. That kind disposition that attracted me to you is something everyone wants to be near.¡±


    ¡°None of that is important, I¡¯ll stay by your side as long as you¡¯ll have me. You¡¯ve washed away all my troubles.¡±


    ¡°You were never interested in the Human Kingdoms the way I am. Don¡¯t push yourself to do things you don¡¯t want to.¡±


    ¡°It seems it¡¯s time to add a second to your harem, I have a few suggestions.¡± She smiled at him deviously.


    ¡°For the last time, I¡¯m not banging one of those Dwarf maidens, the beards creep me out.¡± Roe laughed holding her close.


    Laureline blinked back tears.


    ¡°It feels like I''m about to lose you.¡±


    ¡°You are wearing my Crown Scale, you can call out to me anytime you want and besides there are portals to my Realm in both Airships, I am literally two doors away. Always.¡± Laureline wiped her face on his shoulder.


    ¡°You are right, I am being silly. I¡¯ll go around your territory and subjugate your city lords, I may have to call on you to burn some of the rude ones to a crisp.¡± She kissed him and left, returning to the Underdark via the Cabin entrance to his Realm.


    Roe watched her go before climbing into his Airship to begin his slow leisurely journey to Alstroemeria, the closest of the Kingdoms of man in the God Lands.

 CHAPTER 9 - WORDS ARE EASY

    CHAPTER 9 - WORDS ARE EASY


    The Airship''s cockpit was designed to give the pilot a 360 degree uninterrupted view, it was as if the walls had disappeared. Despite the advanced visuals the controls were very simple. There was a seat, a control stick, a left and right pedal and a throttle. He had heard sometime back about yaw, pitch and roll but he wasn''t sure which is which so he didn''t bother with it.


    Roe used a complicated mapping magic to show him places of interest. This magic wasn''t as strong as his Dragon Rule: Sense but within a few miles it was accurate enough for him to find groups of creatures and areas of interest.


    One such area of interest was high concentration of magical energy and decent amounts of loot. Roe determined it to be a dungeon and when he found a large raiding party outside one of its entrances he decided to introduce himself.


    The sun was beginning to rise when Roe''s Airship descended on the camp. Sharp eyed look outs saw him from a distance and by the time he was near everyone was up and waiting. Airships were expensive and those who owned one were always powerful, it was best to treat them with respect.


    Roe''s Airship stopped about 20ft off the ground near the centre most tent which was flying a pendant of a silver bird on a black flag. Roe looked over the rail and greeted the 50 people he saw there.


    "Greetings Adventurers, I am Magister Roe, your banner has a guild crest on it but I don''t know whom I''m addressing."


    A large man at the head of the crowd wearing full leather armour, a bandolier of throwing knives and carrying a battle axe responded to him.


    "Well met Magister Roe, I am Halford the Raid Master of this mission and we are the Silver Wing Guild. What business do you have here with us?"


    "Business, that is exactly what I am looking to do." Roe leapt off the Airship and floated down to the crowd. Under his arm was a large box, it was 10ft long, 3ft wide but only 6 inches thick. He landed lightly in front of Halford and shook his hand. Roe then stepped back and placed the board flat on the floor. With a whisper of magic it popped up from a 6 inch board to a 5 foot display case. Inside was all the items Roe made for adventures plus a few magic weapons and potions. Everything had a price and description. On top of the case a list of simple enchantments that Roe could offer on the fly.


    "Gather around. Don''t be shy. I see you are about to raid that dungeon, every advantage you can muster you should get. After all you are risking your life."


    The Silver Wing members looked on with interest. Many items on display were amazing.


    "How do we know these items will work as advertised? Let us try them." Someone suggested.


    "Nope, if you want to use it buy it." Roe replied cheerfully.


    "Now wait," Halford injected. "You expect us to buy such pricey products on faith?"


    "You don''t have to buy anything I''m selling. But I''ll give this warning, the price of the healing potions will go up a lot if you try to buy them, after you are injured." Roe''s wide smile seemed like it belonged to a devil. The crowd''s attitude cooled significantly.


    "This man is a charlatan, we should just beat him and take what we want." Another voice in the crowd instigated.


    The air behind Roe shifted and 6 phantasmal warriors materialised. A swordsman, a lancer, a shield wielding tank, and dual dagger wielding assassin, a bowman and a cleric. Without his Dragon Rules Roe knew he was vulnerable. So he had created his Phantom Troupe. These Golems were out of sync with time and space and only became corporeal to defend or attack. They really were overkill seeing as Roe only needed a thought to activate his Domain, but it was better to use a tank to swat a fly than a fly swatter to stop a bullet.


    The crowd grew silent, the power coming from the Phantom Troupe let them know they were outclassed by a wide margin.


    ¡°Hold on, let''s not do anything hasty.¡± Halford placated. He slapped a 1 platinum bar, equivalent to 100 gold coins, on the display case. ¡°I¡¯ll take a high level healing potion.¡± Roe smiled at Halford and gave him one of the red potions.


    Halford handed it to one of his Knights, a man nearly as large as himself.


    ¡°Altman, drink this.¡± The Knight named Altman undid his shield from his left arm revealing a stump that ended just before his wrist. Altman downed the potion in one swig and everyone watched amazed as the stump regrew a new hand, wrist and all. The visible scars on Altman''s face and forearms faded, his missing teeth regenerated. The shocked warrior used his new hand to grope his groin and look at Halford.


    "Even the Itching has stopped."


    The silence was broken as a surge of orders went up.


    ¡°Please everyone, line up. This display case is special, I have more than enough for everybody.¡± And so he did. The Guild members pooled their money. Halford kept a ledger of who gave how much to be reimbursed once they returned to the guild. The raid team was broken up into 5 person squads, so they bought ten bags of holding and in each they packed magical potions, canteens, stoves and blankets. Each member was afforded a bug repelling charm, a communications earring and a head mounted magic lantern.


    Halford was obviously a wealthy man, aside from contributing more than anyone else he still had enough to purchase one of the Magic Axes for himself. With a drop of his blood the Axe was bound to Halford. It would always hit what he threw it at, it would then return to his hand and while he held it it tripled his strength. The Silver Wing Guild members were very happy with their business with Magister Roe.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    With business concluded Roe took his leave, floating back up to his Airship and wishing them luck in their raid. As soon as he was beyond their sight Roe circled around to a different entrance to the same Dungeon. He may have done business with the Silver Wing but that was no reason to give up on the treasure. They got to the Dungeon first but had not beaten it yet. The treasure and more importantly, the Dungeon Core were still up for grabs.


    Roe put his Airship into his Realm and transformed into Roeg-Hiam the Midnight, the raw power a Dragon Lord could bring to bear made his getting to the treasure room first a guarantee, after all it was only people without advantages that whined about playing fair.


    Roeg-Hiram the Midnight moved through the tunnels like greased shadows, bypassing traps, illusions and any monsters who lived there. Those that were even strong enough to detect him cowered at his passing. Despite his speed it still took him hours to work his way to the Treasure room, this Dungeon was absolutely huge. Roeg-Hiam was delighted, he could have just teleported to the Treasure room but he wanted to experience how developed this Dungeon Core was, he wasn¡¯t disappointed.


    As he was about to enter the Treasure room his Sense detected something very well hidden. The Core in the Treasure room was a decoy. The true core was several miles down in a cavern with no entrance. The floor of that cavern was even rigged to collapse into a river of magma should someone gain entry. That trap may not kill the intruder but it would distract them long enough for the Magma river to wash the Core away safely.


    ¡°Clever girl.¡± Roeg-Hiam said as he activated his Domain and made all of the Dungeon Core¡¯s plans useless.


    Deep underground a 3 foot egg shaped gem glowed in a darkened cavern. The Dungeon Core had felt something was wrong for a while now. It closely monitored the Adventures that had entered it¡¯s lair. They were well trained and their equipment was excellent. The chance that more than half of them would make it to the Treasure room was high. But none of that explained the surety that something was amiss.


    When half of the walls of its cavern turned pitch black the Core knew it was compromised. It immediately tried to drop itself into the river below but the trap failed. Out of the Shadowed wall walked a Black Dragon. The Core trembled. It had never left the cavern but it knew what a Dragon Lord was. Dungeon Cores formed naturally along leylines, they were far more complex than simple mana stones, more like Mana Geodes. After they crystallised, monsters would be attracted to them. Since Cores suck up energy anything that died in its vicinity would have its life force absorbed so it was only a matter of time before they became sentient. Then began the vicious cycle of making better traps to kill more powerful prey, to become more powerful. Have no doubt Dungeon Cores were predators. This one had gained enough knowledge to know it was finished.


    ¡°This humble Core submits to its new master.¡± If it could bow it would. Roeg-Hiam walked over to it, sat and began batting it about gently like a new toy.


    ¡°That was well said but let¡¯s guarantee that.¡± Roeg-Hiam rested his clawed hand on top of the egg shaped gem and activated his Absolute Mana knowledge to investigate its structure.


    ¡°What are you doing? I¡¯ve already submitted!¡± The Core complained.


    ¡°Words are easy, and besides I prefer the company of ladies, that masculine voice of yours is just not cutting it.¡± With that Roeg-Hiam drilled down into the Dungeon Core¡¯s structure and added loyalty and devotion to himself, he also lobotomized the Core of its need to grow more powerful and added in sense of satisfaction from doing Roeg-Hiam¡¯s bidding, and doing it well. He basically changed a vicious wolf into a cute Corgi. After all of that he rewrote its personality to be a very happy housewife who enjoyed watching her husband bang the maids, he wasn¡¯t going to let jealousy rare its ugly head later down the line.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t that feel better?¡± Roeg-Hiam cooed.


    ¡°Yes.¡± She replied, her new voice like a young Kathleen Turner.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to name you Korra.¡±


    ¡°Oh gosh, how long did it take you to think that one up?¡± She snarkily replied.


    ¡°No one¡¯s ever accused me of being original.¡± Roeg-Hiam laughed. ¡°Do you like it or do you want something else?¡±


    ¡°No, Korra is a beautiful name. Even if it isn¡¯t original.¡± He could practically hear that she was pouting. This was a true intelligent creature.


    Magical constructs were just like smart programming, a series of ¡®if else¡¯ statements. Roeg-Hiam could easily put together something like his Phantom Troupe but true Magical intellects were vastly more complicated. With his Absolute Mana knowledge Roeg-Hiam could build a Magical Intellect but it would take him months and after that it would then have to begin learning, it would do it much faster than a baby but it would still take more months to develop a personality. Compare this to the few moments it took to overwrite the parts of the Dungeon Core he didn¡¯t like.


    Roeg-Hiam now that he had a magical intellect that he liked, he could now copy and paste it into as many Dungeon Core gems as he wanted he would then network them all allowing for unprecedented multitasking. All he needed was enough Dungeon Core gems and since Dungeon Cores were just deeply complex Mana crystals. He could make those himself.


    A Dungeon Core basically had low level reality altering abilities so creating an avatar for themselves was easy. Korra had usually manifested as a goat headed demon which served as the boss of the Dungeon.


    Roeg-Hiam didn¡¯t like it, mostly because it was male and its dick was much bigger than his own. That would not do.


    So Roeg-Hiam invited Laureline over to help craft a better form and to introduce his Matriarch to his new concubine. The two hit it off quickly, both had warm personalities but Laureline was naturally domineering and Korra was now very subservient. Korra had really liked the demonic look so they decided on a Succubus as her avatar. She had red skin, black glossy nails and lips, two horns growing straight up out of her forehead, with wavy black hair, a tail with a heart shaped spade on the tip, two small bat wings growing out of her lower back that she wrapped around her front to make a very sexy corset when she wasn¡¯t flying and she chose feet over cloven hooves after Laureline sold her on the joys of getting her toes sucked.


    After sorting out her look Korra headed towards Roeg-Hiam, growing as she approached him, she got down on her hands and knees and crawled to the massive Dragon. Laureline made herself comfortable and prepared to enjoy the show. This was novel for Roeg-Hiam, Laureline¡¯s size always determined his own. He could only make love to her as a human or a Dragon Newt this was the first time he would use this form.


    Korra kissed Roeg-Hiam¡¯s neck, it sent a tingle down his spine. It always amazed him how sensitive his scales were, he got lost in her touch. Korra¡¯s hand wormed down to his phallus, in this form Roeg-Hiam was sheathed similar to a horse but Korra¡¯s deft touch coaxed him to attention. A growl escaped Roeg-Hiam¡¯s throat and Korra raised her lips to his ear to whisper.


    ¡°My body is a construct, there¡¯s no need to hold yourself back.¡± Their eyes met for a moment. The look of complete devotion was all he could ever wish for. Roeg-Hiam grabbed Korra and flipped her on to her stomach and mounted her from behind. His first thrust penetrated deep into her center knocking the breath out of her. Had she been flesh and blood such a savage opening would have hurt but her magically constructed avatar was built for pleasure and she was in ecstasy. Roeg-Hiam got into a rhythm. One of his clawed hands dug into her shoulder, holding her steady and the other deep into the pliable flesh of below her hip. Korra¡¯s breath returned and she screamed and moaned expressing her joy and encouragement to Roeg-Hiam. His massive wings reached around to caress her smaller ones. Her body trembled into orgasam, her wings were just as sensitive as his own. Korra¡¯s tail wagged happily between them, it caught Roeg-Hiam¡¯s eye and out of happy mischievousness he lowered his mouth and caught it in his teeth, biting gently on her heart shaped spade. There was a loud intake of breath as Korra¡¯s body froze up. She collapsed onto the cavern floor unconscious with a smile parting her gasping lips. Her gem which had brightened with each orgasam went off like a camera flash before dimming into a night mode, a riot of colours played deep below the surface.


    ¡°Goodness, you may have broken her.¡± Laureline whispered in awe from where she sat next to the egg shaped gem. She had stripped her dress and had been touching herself while enjoying the show.


    ¡°You can finish with me if you¡¯re done with her.¡± Laureline teased, stroking her breasts.


    ¡°I¡¯m getting to you next.¡± Roeg-Hiam replied. ¡°But I¡¯m not finished with this one yet.¡±


    Roeg-Hiam withdrew himself from Korra¡¯s slick passage and lined himself up with the rose colored pucker of her anus. Wet as he was from her cum his broad head slid past her elastic sphincter with his slow steady pressure. Korra¡¯s gem flared back to life as he resumed his ministrations.


    ¡°Oh! You wonderful bastard!¡± She screamed into wakefulness. Roeg-Hiam continued to play Korra¡¯s body like an instrument in the hands of a master musician. Laureline was forced to close her eyes as Korra¡¯s gem strobed constantly like a 90¡¯s anime. The frenetic pace brought on Roeg-Hiam¡¯s own orgasm, he roared his completion and released deep in Korra¡¯s body. Her gem immediately returned to night mode as she passed out, overloaded on pleasure.


    Roeg-Hiam shrunk down to his Dragon Newt form and pulled Laureline up onto Korra¡¯s back.


    ¡°Really, you¡¯re going to take me here, on her back?¡± Roeg-Hiam didn¡¯t respond, instead he lowered her onto the soft sweat slicked lower back of the sleeping Korra and made love to her for hours.

 CHAPTER 10 - I SAW A BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

    CHAPTER 10 - I SAW A BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY


    The next day Laureline returned to his territory to continue her tour. Roeg-Hiam went with her to install a small Dungeon Core gem into the black Airship. This small Core had a copy of Korra so installing it allowed her to control the Airship like a mobile Dungeon.


    Roeg-Hiam then installed Korra¡¯s main Core into his Realm below his mountain castle. He had already set up a formation to draw power and maintain his Realm but until now all changes had to be made by himself. With Korra the Realm could be adjusted without him needing to be involved. Korra was delighted with everything, Roeg-Hiam¡¯s Realm was bigger than her old Dungeon and she was finally able to metaphorically stretch herself out, and the energy gathering formation kept her hunger sated.


    The Korra on the black Airship was amazed at being mobile. As a Dungeon Core she never even dreamed of being able to travel, having a body that was an Airship was everything she never knew she wanted.


    Roeg-Hiam did not want to contend with many different Korras so he networked the Cores, making her a mind with multiple bodies. This would come in handy when he knocked one of her Cores unconscious with orgasms, the rest would still function until that one came back online.


    Only a few days had passed so Roeg-Hiam decided to return to Korra¡¯s old Dungeon, the Silver Wing Guild should be near the treasure room by now but he saw no reason they should get those spoils. He made his intentions known to his ladies when Korra made a request.


    ¡°Roe, could you install a copy of me in my old Dungeon?¡±


    Roeg-Hiam looked at Korra carefully.


    ¡°You still have the urge to kill?¡± The caution in Roeg-Hiam¡¯s eyes shook her very being. If she was still blood thirsty he couldn¡¯t trust her to watch his home or protect his family.


    ¡°No!¡± She shouted, rushing to him. ¡°Take me apart and study my code if you have to but I swear it¡¯s not that.¡± Korra looked desperately into his eyes. Roeg-Hiam used Dragon Rule 24: Absolute Truth, this rule allowed him to know when someone was lying or force an honest confession, this Rule is why he was confident the Laueline¡¯s father had lied to him.


    Korra was telling the truth, Roeg-Hiam¡¯s body visibly relaxed.


    ¡°So explain, why do you wish to manage a Dungeon again?¡±


    Korra answered without hesitation.


    ¡°I miss designing the traps and puzzles, you¡¯ve allowed me to see so much and I¡¯m bursting with inspiration but I have no outlet. I can make all my traps, my entire Dungeon non lethal if you like.¡± Roeg-Hiam thought about it before agreeing, he didn¡¯t want any of his lovers to be bored and waiting for his attention. A business or a hobby was a necessity.


    ¡°Fine, but let¡¯s go with it being very lethal but with a save point system.¡±


    "I''m not sure what that is." Korra admitted.


    "I''ll explain later, first let me craft another Core." Good to his word Roeg-Hiam made a new Core gem and returned to the secret cavern. He reconnected this Core to the circuit of the Dungeon above and added it to his Core network.


    Roeg-Hiam had Korra move all the coins and jewels into the hidden cavern, leaving the other treasures behind. Roeg-Hiam never saw the appeal of sleeping on loose gold over a fluffy bed but seeing the cavern nearly filled with gold coins awakened to urge to dive through them like Scrooge McDuck and in doing so he found a pleasure he didn¡¯t even know he was missing. It seemed hard Dragon bodies and loose treasure were made for each other. The coins got between his scales in wonderful, mind numbing ways. The closest thing he could describe to it was a vibrating armchair he had in his old life. He was totally going to start relaxing in the treasure room in his Realm.


    As he relaxed he had Korra display the progress of the Silver Wing Guild as they advanced through the Dungeon. It was prime time reality TV. The Drama, the Danger, the Triumphs!


    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    Five had stayed behind with the horses and 45 had entered the Dungeon, 33 of which were still alive.


    Roeg-Hiam took the time to overlook the layout of Korra''s Dungeon. As he thought it was a killing ground. Roeg-Hiam explained to Korra that save points were areas where people would be teleported back to if they were on the brink of losing their lives. He suggested she create only one save point, the entrance, ejecting anyone about to die, whether or not they got healing wasn¡¯t her problem. Roeg-Hiam also suggested rest areas be built at what Korra determined was a day¡¯s travel, these rooms would have an option for each individual to return to the entrance. This way those who have lost the will to continue would be tempted by the easy way out. They discussed many things like this, mini boss rooms, a reward system where healing potions were given before a big battle and some treasure after if they win, mimic treasure boxes, a variety of traps and a whole bestiary of monsters.


    Korra began implementing changes immediately. Her first step was to close all other entrances to her Dungeon, her second was to make the entrance a grand looking edifice like an ancient tomb.


    The adventurers outside saw the change but dared not enter. The new entry chamber was wide and circular, around it stood eight guardian statues and opposite the entrance was the tunnel to the Dungeon proper. In the center was an altar with silver rings in it.


    ¡®Wear one to preserve your life.¡¯ Was written on a placard on the altar in many different languages. After discussions with Roeg-Hiam, Korra decided that the best way to implement the save point system was to monitor each adventurer¡¯s vitals and surroundings. A magic ring would be ideal for that and they were made to vanish after a single use or if the person left the Dungeon. As for the adventures already inside, their luck was forfeit.


    Korra worked her designs down level by level making the Dungeon seem much less like a naturally occurring cave system and more of a planned obstacle. There were now 9 floors each with a different boss, keys needed to be found to open boss doors and proceed forward, Korra placed 9 chests on each level but made sure only the last one to be opened had the boss key. There was a spiral staircase after every boss room which led down to the next level. At the bottom of each staircase was a safe room. In this safe room was one of the eight statues seen at the entrance as well as another altar.


    ¡®Touch this altar for 5 seconds if you wish to leave this Dungeon.¡¯ Was written on this one.


    Halford and his companions found themselves in quite a situation, while the majority of them slept, the Dungeon had changed around them.


    The people standing watch reported the change happened in a flash and there was no time to react. Although they didn¡¯t know it the Silver Wing Guild were in the final safe room. One more day of hard battle and they would reach the final boss and have a chance at great treasure but the issue was the altar. A promise of safety, for people who had lost a few dear friends along the way, this was quite the temptation.


    Because the Silver Wing had not travelled Korra¡¯s new Dungeon they were not able to reap the rewards from the many chests she had littered through the upper levels. Not wanting to return empty handed was the main argument for going forward. Also because the Silver Wing had not gotten the save point rings a few of them had died. Wanting to live was obviously the argument for trying the return feature offered by the altar.


    With no information on how much further they had to go and the uncertainty caused by the sudden Dungeon change Halford relented and ordered their return. One of them volunteered to test the return altar. Using the communication earring they had bought from Roeg-Hiam he let the rest know it was safe from the otherside.


    The battered Silver Wing Guild left the Dungeon.


    Roeg-Hiam applauded their decision. His work there was done so he gathered the coins into the Horde within his Realm and teleported outside. Resuming his Magister Roe persona he boarded his Airship and flew to the entrance of Korra¡¯s Dungeon.


    The Silver Wing Guild was delighted to see Magister Roe flying over head and vigorously waved him to land. He obliged, floating down to them with what looked to be two small barrels one under each arm.


    ¡°Greetings Silver Wing Guild, Well met Halford.¡± He called out. Roe landed with a jolly smile before looking around and locking eyes on the new elaborate Dungeon entrance where there was a simple cave in the mountain there now stood a magnificent stone arch with broad columns leading inside.


    ¡°Halford, was that like that when I was last here?¡± Roe falsely asked. Halford turned to look at the entry with frustration.


    ¡°Your eyes do not lie to you Magister Roe, the Dungeon has evolved. It happened when we were still inside, we¡¯ve lost out on any treasure but we can still sell this information and recoup our losses. Speaking of which we exhausted our potions and would like to do more business with you.¡±


    ¡°Ah, well let me get set up. Make room!¡± Roe said. He proceeded to a clear area to the right of the Dungeon entrance and placed the first small barrel down. Now that Halford got a better look at it he noticed it was set up like a model building. It had a few doors, many windows and a little red roof with a chimney. Roe planted the little barrel building on the floor before he took the second barrel and divided it lengthwise into halves. He put the cut side of each half down on either side of the little barrel building and commanded them.


    ¡®Grow.¡¯


    They expanded in a flash, the barrel building was now 3 stories tall, the half barrel to the right was now a stable and the one to the left a store.


    Halford and his Guild mates looked on in astonishment.


    ¡°When I met you here and heard there was a Dungeon, I saw a business opportunity.¡± Roe informed them as he reached into his cloak and pulled out 18 dolls with identical faces but different clothing according to their jobs. Clerks, cooks, waitresses, maids, stable hands and a bartender. He set them down and whispered more magic to them. They grew to human proportions and sprang to life. They were all beautiful slender women with chestnut brown hair. Roe had made from Porcelain so being proudly unoriginal he kept that as their name.


    ¡°Welcome to Magister Roe¡¯s roadside Inn. We are Porcelain.¡± They bowed and greeted in chorus.


    3 of the Clerks raised their hands.


    ¡°Those needing to purchase items or potions please follow us.¡± They then lead the way to the store. Half of the Silver Wing Guild followed them.


    The 3 stable hands made a similar offer. While the 4 waitresses, 4 maids, 2 cooks, bartender and final clerk entered the hotel.


    Roe approached Halford and slapped him on the back.


    ¡°Come Halford, I¡¯ll buy you a drink while you regale me with your adventure.¡± They entered the common room and spent the evening in food and drink.

 CHAPTER 11 - I鈥橵E MASTERED THEM ALL

    CHAPTER 11 - I¡¯VE MASTERED THEM ALL


    Roeg-Hiam parted with the Silver Wing Guild, they were headed to the same destination but he wasn''t going to be kind enough to offer them a ride.


    He carried on his journey, rambling from place to place.


    During this time he installed and networked a Korra Core in his Airship. As soon as he finished she materialised her Avatar and expressed her delight to be traveling with him. Fortunately the co-pilot took care of the ship while they were occupied.


    Magister Roe arrived in Alstroemeria capital city of Bitalistan, the city was massive and built along a serene lake. Forests gave way to farmlands which in turn gave way to suburbs before you got to the city proper. Aside from frequent patrols the guards only made their presence felt at the massive moat and city wall that separated the inner and outer city. There they city guardsmen carried out inspections and charged a toll for entry. A wide class system was evident.


    The wall had many enchantments including a flight restriction. Over the outer city Airships and Sky Skimmers moved about freely but only a few flying the Royal Crest''s flag could be seen over the inner city. While studying the city during his approach Roe realised why some restrictions may be a good idea. The skies over outer Bitalistan were a free-for-all. He witnessed no less than 3 different collisions in the space of a few breaths and had a few near misses himself. The close calls made up Roe''s mind, he landed his Airship and stored it in his Realm before mounting an enchanted carpet and floating leisurely into the city just above walking height.


    Most businesses were located along the wide Main Roads so he had no problem finding an inn by asking around. The inn he chose was highly recommended, a place where patrons don''t have to worry about having their throats cut and items stolen while they slept. ''The Feather Arms'' was located 3 streets away from the inner city wall''s main gate, it was 6 stories tall, took up the entire block and business was booming.


    It was still early in the afternoon but Roe decided he would go and register himself at the Magic Tower, which was located in the Inner City, tomorrow.


    Roe had a hearty lunch and decided to wander the city working his way around the main roads checking out businesses and looking for a potential location for his future store. He found a few likely areas and spoke to the landlords to compare prices and amenities. By dusk he was all the way to the lake docks.


    The docks were bustling, work here never stopped. Although no ships departed nor made land during the night, buying and selling of cargo was the most fierce during these hours. Many ships left with the morning tide and those crewmen lucky enough to get shoreleave made the most of it, as such it hardly took any effort for Roe to find a brothel.


    There was a weapons check at the door before entering a dark smoky room with pulsing music, a bar and women dancing on stages or flirting with customers.


    Roe found an empty booth and took a seat. He ordered a drink from petite beastkin waitresses and waited for a girl to come to him. The waitresses returned and found Roe still sat alone. 15 minutes passed, Roe was finishing his second drink when the beastkin waitresses passed to collect his glass.


    "Another one mister?" She asked, her voice was a little horse. Roe looked up and studied her for the first time. He had seen many beastkin before they had a wide range from fully animalistic to barely noticeable. His waitresses fell right in the middle. In his old world she would have been the classic dog girl trope.


    She had orange long hair with a fully human face but no human ears, instead she had very expressive dog ears on her head. Her hands were padded, her shaped fingernails actually claws. Her forearms and outer thighs were lightly furred, the rest of her showed normal skin. Around her neck was a magical iron collar, she was a slave. Roe looked around the room, all the females here wore those collars.


    Roe returned his attention to his waitresses despite her beautiful face, she wasn''t healthy. Just from moving about the bar she was short of breath, her skin was wan, her fur mottled and she constantly suppressed a cough. Roe used magic eyes and saw her body wracked with disease, he was surprised she was still standing.


    "Most of the girls are with their regulars, but I''ll find someone to send over." She continued.


    "Don¡¯t bother." Roe replied. "Bring me a bottle, ice, two glasses and yourself."


    The waitresses was taken aback.


    "As you can see sir I''m not well, I''ve been taken out of the rotation, so I don''t infect the patrons."


    "There are healing potions to fix your ailments."


    "You are obviously a kind master, if I were an Elf they may have considered it but for a lowly beastkin like myself. I''m not worth it."


    "Well I''m willing to pay to drink with you and as a slave you are in no position to complain, hurry with my drink. And bring something sweet to mix it with." Roe commanded.


    She smiled at him sweetly, it was obvious this Lord had taken pity on her. She went quickly to the pit boss to let him know that someone else had to cover her tables since a patron wanted her drink with him.


    Her name was Constance, she was naturally playful and she and Roe had a great time telling jokes, stories and singing songs.


    It had been a wonderful evening and he promised to visit again.


    ***


    The following morning Roe rose early, dressed in his best Mages robes, checked out of the inn and headed into the inner city.


    The price to enter the inner-city was preposterous, ten gold coins.


    Fortunately for Roe he had been wealthy for a while and his fortunes were only growing. He paid and asked for directions to the Mage''s Tower. With a name like Tower you would imagine it would be easy to find but there were many tall buildings in this city, he could see at least 5 different skyscrapers from the inner Plaza past the wall. The guard gave Roe a friendly smile and accurate directions. He actually refused the Silver coin Roe offered as a tip.


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    From where Roe started the Alstroemeria magic tower was the second skyscraper on the left. It was the only one that was all white and seemed to have no windows.


    Roe quickly found the building and was surprised to notice there was no entrance. Flicking his magical sight on, the building changed before his eyes. What had seemed a solid stone edifice was actually marble and glass. A modern looking office building.


    Roe saw wizards entering and leaving while cloaked in one form of invisibility or another. So he did the same and walked in the automatic sliding doors. Upon entering the building Roe felt his invisibility magic get nullified.


    The vast lobby led to a series of golem dolls acting as clerks. Roe read the various instructions carefully until he found the counter marked new registration.


    ¡°Greetings Magister.¡± The golem intoned. ¡°Which field of magic is your major?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve mastered them all.¡± Roe replied. His research had uncovered that mastery in ten or more magic fields would let him apply for the title of Grandmaster.


    There were literally more fields of magic than letters in the alphabet. The golem gave him a magic slate.


    ¡°Answer as many of these as you can and your aptitude in the subject area will be assessed.¡± Roe took the slate and sat in one of the comfy chairs arranged artfully around the room.


    He quickly went down the line of subjects and answered everything. He made sure to not elaborate more than was necessary, after all he wasn¡¯t here to start a magic revolution. Roe also skipped everything to do with premonition or fortune telling, he found that type of magic truly distasteful, every time you looked into the future you killed possibilities. It was best just to be in the now.


    It took Roe about an hour and a half to finish with his slate. He returned it to the same golem doll who placed it into a thin slot and then asked him to put his hand on a crystal ball to read his Mana reserve. The golem then charged him two platinum bars, handed him a crystal membership card and congratulated him. The golem explained how the card could be used as a communication device, it had a mapping function, and would allow him access to both the mage tower¡¯s library and the Mage tower bank.


    ¡°Anything you put in your card will be instantly transported to your personal vault. Additional cards are available for purchase for two platinum bars each.¡±


    Roe dropped his blood on the card to bind it. When a magic item was bound it could not be used by anyone else and if stolen returned to its master. Roe took out 100,000 platinum bars from his Realm and put them in his card before looking over his information.


    NAME: MAGISTER ROE


    TITLE: ARCHMAGE


    RANK: SSS CLASS


    ACCESS: FULL


    DISCOUNT: 10%


    FUNDS: 100,000 PLATINUM BARS


    CONTACTS: 0


    ¡®It¡¯s a book reader, satellite map, communication device and a bank card all rolled into one, like a Smartphone.¡¯ Roe thought. He would have to make a transfer device like this for Laureline so she could access the Realm vault the way he did, without having to constantly return to the Realm. As it was now she had many chests of gold and jewels in the Airship¡¯s vaults so the issue could wait.


    Roe was finally able to register his sigil, the mark he¡¯d put onto all of his creations, every enchanter had one, an appraiser could easily identify the magic in it, registering at the Magic tower gave them a standard to test against.


    With his tasks done Roe turned to leave the tower when his new Magic card ¡®rang¡¯. The ID said Grandmaster Callum. Roe quickly puzzled out how to answer the device.


    ¡°Hello, Magister Roe speaking.¡±


    ¡°Archmage Roe, please don¡¯t leave yet my name is Callum I¡¯d like to give you a tour of the facilities and to meet the other top Mage¡¯s in the Kingdoms. Just hold on I¡¯m almost there.¡±


    Roe returned to his seat and waited. A white haired man burst into the lobby and looked around frantically. Roe rose from his seat and approached him.


    ¡°Grandmaster Callum I presume.¡± Roe reached out to shake the man¡¯s hand. Callum froze in disbelief.


    ¡®He¡¯s so young.¡¯ Callum thought. Roe glanced at his unshook hand and let it drop. That glance brought Callum out of his contemplation and he lunged to shake Roe¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Forgive me Archmage, I did not expect you to be so young.¡±


    "Hopefully my results spoke loud enough." Roe replied.


    "They did, they did! Please follow me." Cullum lead Roe through the tower, he first showed him the bank vaults. It was a pocket dimension with hundreds of thousands of vaults.


    "I don''t think they are this many Mages on the planet." Roe commented.


    "Oh no, we offer our banking services to anyone for an annual fee, only Mages get access to our library and the 10% discount at our partner stores. Those stores get to wave our annual fee, a 5% discount at their fellow partner stores and post jobs directly with the Mage Tower." Callum enlightened Roe while they moved on to the other levels.


    In the tower there was a cafeteria, a gym, laboratories, testing rooms, dormitories and offices. Everything a Mage needed to survive. They even had a fast travel teleportation booth that connected the other Mage Towers.


    Their final stop was a greenhouse on the top floor where magical plants were grown. There were 14 Mages waiting for them in a gazebo at the centre of the garden. There were Human Wizards, Dwarven Forge Masters, Elven Sorcerers, Beastkin Shamans and even a Drow Alchemist. Roe had no doubt that they had mastered more than their race''s initial magical inheritance. Every person here was at least a Grandmaster.


    "Greetings Magis and Magisters, is this some form of Conclave?" Roe asked. The group exchanged looks before a young looking Elf male replied.


    "Well we are not recognized as such officially, but we are the most powerful members of the Mage Tower organization. I am Archmage and founder Eclinon. In the 500 years we''ve been open you are the first Archmage to join." Roe looked around noticing a few others as powerful as Eclinon. Everyone noted those Roe looked to. One of them, a red bearded dwarf, chuckled at how perceptive Roe was.


    "We all became Archmages after joining the tower and having access to the Mage Tower¡¯s library." The dwarf named Gemeye clarified. Silent understanding blossomed on Roe''s face.


    "Come sit with us Archmage Roe, we''ve gathered from around the kingdoms to hear your story." Callum spoke again leading the way to the table.


    Roe joined them for refreshments while he spun a tall tale of finding a pyramid and being sucked into a pocket dimension library. He told them that he was chosen to inherit the Legacy of the Archmage Merlin, how time was of little consequence in the library but he could not leave until he passed a final exam and should he fail he would be killed. Roe elaborated how he studied every subject inside and out for what felt like millennia before he believed he could learn no more and took the deadly exam. He continued his tale with a triumphant exit from the pyramid library which vanished behind him, before concluding with a return to the Kingdoms and the discovery that nearly a century had passed.


    His audience expressed their envy over his opportunity before a few of them thought to offer some condolence on any loss of family he may have occurred. A few others expressed their admiration for Archmage Merlin who had left such a wonderful Legacy behind.


    With Roe''s tale now told the conversation spread over many topics. Roe was able to do more business than he expected, through these new contacts he got a lead on a building for sale outside of the City wall but on the main road, which he would scout in the morning. He also got to know what kind of items other magic users in the city sold. Roe had no problem with competition but decided to avoid doing so with the unofficial Conclave of the Mage Tower.


    The Mages spoke late into the night and Archmage Eclinon showed Roe to the Apartment his high ranking afforded him.


    Early the next morning Roe headed out to meet the owner of the shop for sale. It was an older couple who once ran a store from the location and lived on the floor above but they were looking to retire with their son and his family in another Kingdom. Roe paid them their asking price with no haggling and the overjoyed elders left that same afternoon. Roe used the time between to once again wander the city. He found some city guardsmen and engaged them in conversation over lunch gaining some insight as to the districts and people to avoid. He paid for their meals and left first, returning to his now vacant building.


    With the elderly couple gone Roe planned the layout for his enchanted equipment store, ¡®Archmage Roe¡¯s Emporium''. The Archmage title would draw wealthy customers like flies.


    The building had two stories and it had seen better days, it was sandwiched between bigger, grander complexes but it''s location on the main street was ideal.


    For what he had to do next Roe needed his privacy so he built an anti-scrying formation. This would work similar to the Dragon Rule 4: Unhindered, the difference between blocking a Gods'' watching with a formation and using the Dragon Rules was the formation was localized to the building or room it was in and the often watching Gods could see you create it. Seeing a human Wizard build an anti-scrying formation before no longer being able to see into his or her building was perfectly logical and needed no further scrutiny.


    With the formation up Roe activated his Dragon Rules. As a Mage he could achieve a lot but through the Dragon Rules he could do exponentially more and in a shorter time.


    He changed his new building, starting with reinforcing it, adding magical circles throughout the walls and floors. He used his Mana mastery to make some rooms bigger on the inside and used pocket dimensions to add a basement and a space between the 1st and 2nd floor. It was a true Magical Fortress like the Mage Tower. With a department store on the ground floor, his laboratories in the basement, business offices and meeting rooms on the 1st floor and living quarters on the 2nd floor.


    Roe added a door to his Realm in his living quarters, installed a Korra Core to control his new base and many Golem dolls of the Porcelain design to act as servants.


    Everything was set, he sent out invites to the guilds who had branches in the capital city as well as all the Nobel houses in Bitalistan for his Grand Opening at the beginning of the next week. When Roe received a call.


    It caused an uproar in the magical society when everyone received word that the new Emporium was going to be delayed for another 3 months.


    Eclinon and the other mages close to Roe were curious as to the delay but Archmage Roe''s simple response was.


    ¡°Family business.¡±

 CHAPTER 12 - I鈥橫 NOT THIS SORT OF GUY

    CHAPTER 12 - I¡¯M NOT THIS SORT OF GUY


    The ¡®Family business¡¯ was that Laureline ran into an issue with a City Lord on the island of Dryden backed by the Kingdom of Larkspur.


    It seemed the Royal family of Larkspur didn''t want to give up the beautiful and lucrative colony on the island of Dryden and knowing how aloof Dragon Lords were to human politics, had instructed the City Lord to frustrate Laureline¡¯s takeover of the island.


    Unfortunately for the City Lord, a human named Putelli, Matriarch Laureline was both patient and persistent. She negotiated in good faith offering fair remuneration to Larkspur for their investment into the island''s development.


    Putelli had no recourse so he restored to being belligerent and unreasonable, making outrageous demands to sabotage the negotiations, he hoped to frustrate the process and for Laurarline to call for a replacement, he would resign immediately but a new City Lord would then take months to arrive from Larkspur.


    While Lord Putelli was playing his hand Laureline was also playing hers, Lord Putelli was doing well but he was not a politician he was a human nobel, a man used to having his way. Laureline just needed him to disparage her to end this farce. Until then she would continue to be sugary sweet.


    This was a contest of patience but between the Human and the Dark Elf their perspective of time determined the winner. After a short three months of negotiations Lord Putelli snapped.


    ¡°This is pointless, we are going in circles, it is obvious that you gained your power from your skills in the bedroom, not the boardroom,¡± Lord Putelli packed his papers.


    ¡°I am sending my King a recommendation to replace me, you should do the same, these negotiations will reconvene when my replacement arrives.¡± Putelli and his retinue departed. He was quite proud of his tirade, Matriarch Laureline was speechless.


    For her part Laureline wore a small smile, the insult was minor, the kind of thing just swept aside but she wasn¡¯t some Queen, she was a Matriarch she didn¡¯t have to take shit from anyone.


    She reached through the crown scale on her necklace and called her husband.


    City Lord Putelli and his backers needed to be made an example of.


    ***


    The island of Dryden grew dark when Roeg-Hiam the Midnight appeared over it.


    There would be no further negotiations, all pleas were ignored. City lord Putelli, his family and all representatives of the Larkspur Kingdom were immolated in Dragon fire.


    The citizens who wished to return to Larkspur were allowed to board ships and leave. Not surprisingly only Nobles and their servants took the offer.


    Many slaves took the opportunity to gain freedom, for peasants an aloof Dragonlord was superior to a cruel master or a stupid King. The Larkspur fleet escorted the Nobles and delivered Roeg-Hiam¡¯s threat to the Larkspur Kingdom.


    He promised to raze the Kingdom to the ground if any member of the royal family still lived when he arrived.


    It was two days after the return of the Larkspur fleet when day turned to night and Roeg-Hiam the Midnight landed in Larkspur''s capital city.


    Roeg-Hiam was expecting an epic battle but instead he was greeted with a grizzly sight.


    The heads of the King, his wives, mistresses, children and known bastards were on display on the steps of the palace preserved in their terror with magic.


    Roeg-Hiam made a public announcement forgiving the Kingdom for its part in hindering the negotiations and left them to choose a new ruler.


    He didn¡¯t think Laureline would have further troubles moving forward.


    ***


    Roeg-Hiam still had 4 more days before he had to head back to Bitalistan so he decided to take a leisurely flight around the seas of his territory.


    He had hardly spent any time in his own lands and much less over his seas.


    The wind changed and carried a song to Roeg-Hiam. As quickly as the melody came it was gone but Roeg-Hiam was able to determine a heading. After traveling in the direction the wind had come from he came to an island on the outskirts of his territory. The island was circular and had a luscious forest growing on it that came nearly down to the beach.


    Roeg-Hiam went in for a closer look. He shrank down to human size but stayed in his Dragon form, after all he was in his own territory, there was no need to hide. Moving silently he could now hear the singing clearly. From above, the island looked as if it had never been touched but there was obviously someone here.


    The singing was coming from a copse near the centre of the forest. Roeg-Hiam was enchanted by what he saw, 8 beautiful maidens frolicing around something glowing in the centre of the thicket.


    The women had a range of brown skin tones with green hair. Dryads, also known as tree nymphs. The Simple robes they wore came down past their hips before flaring out in a riot of colours, reminding Roeg-Hiam of flower petals.


    Roeg-Hiam began to approach them, he was curious about their society and what that glow was but although he was silent, his presence was still noticed. The dryads stopped their dance and song. They were afraid


    One female stepped forward, this one had brambles forming a crown on her head. Although she looked no older than the rest she radiated a sense of responsibility that good leaders seem to have.


    ¡°This lowly grove mother greets the Sovereign.¡± she bowed, the other dryads followed her lead. The grove mother was no less terrified but knew her role, generations ago a Goddess had given them a sacred charge, they had fled to this island with the seed of a treasured flower to hide it from the Dragon purge. The reason why Dragons destroyed the fields of Ambrosia Flowers was lost to Dryad history but as soon as this one bloomed a Dragon Lord appeared, could it be fate?


    ¡°Greetings ladies¡­¡± Roeg-Hiam began but stopped as he got a whiff of the glowing flower behind the Dryads. Its petals shifted through the rainbow of hues, its stem and leaves were ivory white, while the stamen looked like molten gold.


    Dragon Lore:


    ¡®WARNING¡­ ¡®


    That was as far as Roeg-Hiam¡¯s Dragon lore got before he lost his senses.


    His first whiff had stunned him, his second put Roeg-Hiam the Midnight straight into a state of Musth. He released a primal roar and a wave of lust radiated off of him causing the Dryads to moan. Some immediately began to rut.Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    The grove mother tried to resist the wave of building passion, she looked to the flower, it was causing this. No Dragon Lord about to go into heat would be far from his Harem. She began to move to put up a barrier but the other Dryads grabbed her and spun her to face the Dragon Lord. Another dryad was already using her mouth on his phallus which had emerged from its perpetual sheath.


    The grove mother was brought before the Dragon Lord like a sacrifice, her strength marked her as his target. A pseudo Matriarch. The other Dryads stripped her while fondling and kissing her body, the insistent touches and Dragon lust aura working together to weaken her protests and struggles.


    The Dragon Lord moved to cover her, and one look in his intense eyes melted her resolve. She opened wide to welcome him, hitting her first climax as he slowly slid his way into her depths.


    The orgy was in full motion, instinctively the Dragon Lord knew when the grove mother was at her limit and would move his attention to another Dryad and then another. Always coming back to her before she could leave her fugue state. With the 15 Dryads every orifice was used and every position tried, the stamina of a Dragon Lord in heat was legendary.


    As the Dragon Lord neared his climax something in the back of his mind nagged him like an itch. He held the grove mother down while taking her energetically from behind. He withdrew from her womanhood and loosed his seed in her chrysanthemum. The euphoria of his climax brought a moment of clarity.


    ¡®I can¡¯t sense Laureline¡¯s Crown Scale.¡¯ What once nagged at the back of his mind came through clear as day. Roeg-Hiam the Midnight surveyed the scene. Dryads lay about exhausted in a pile of nubile flesh, his penis throbbed, still embedded in the anus of the grove mother whom he held pinned to the ground. She watched him over her shoulder with a lusty, languid drug addled stare.


    ¡®This isn¡¯t me, I¡¯m not this sort of guy.¡¯ Roeg-Hiam protested in his mind despite evidence to the contrary.


    The sweet aroma of the flower drifted over again. His slackening member once again began to engorge.


    ''Dragon Rule 5: Atmosphere!''


    Roeg-Hiam no longer had to breathe. The treacherous flower wouldn¡¯t influence him anymore. He withdrew himself from the depths of the grove mother¡¯s body and used his magic to separate the tangle of bodys and cover the sleeping Dryads with blankets. He felt new arrivals.


    ¡°I told you I felt an Ambrosa Flower, you told me they were extinct,¡± came a familiar voice.


    ¡°You were right dear sister. If you weren¡¯t returning from the Dragon Lands we would have missed this opportunity.¡±


    ¡°Are you two sure this is the right flower, he seems in full command of his senses.¡±


    Roeg-Hiam turned toward the flower and activated his Domain. Goddess Zuriel, Asturiel and 5 other Gods Roeg-Hiam had yet to meet materialised in front of the offending plant.


    ¡®You are in my territory this time, please stand aside so I can destroy that vile flower.¡¯ Roeg-Hiam replied telepathically, he dared not take a breath to speak while the flower remained.


    "Lord Roeg-Hiam, these flowers are a rare treasure." Said Lady Zuriel.


    "The Sky-fall Treaty stops us from making more but preserving those we find is an utmost priority."


    Well that was that. There was no room for negotiation. The fight was on.


    Within Roeg-Hiam¡¯s Domain, the Gods¡¯ miracles were neutralised but just like when they were facing the dreadnought 3 other Gods stayed outside of Roeg-Hiam¡¯s range and provided support. Zuriel snatched up the flower in a magic bubble to avoid the beam of annihilation Roeg-Hiam released.


    Neither side was fighting to kill and both avoided damaging the forest and the sleeping Dryads. Despite that, the battle was intense. Zuriel and Asturiel switched the magic bubble between them as they tried to flee Roeg-Hiam¡¯s territory. The 5 other Gods ran interference. Since being reincarnated this was Roeg-Hiam¡¯s second fight. His Dragon Lore did not provide any battle tips but in his past life he had practiced various martial arts that were being quickly adapted from his 4 limb training to his new 7 limb reality. Roeg-Hiam employed his wings like Taekwondo kicks and his tail like a whip, as a result the 5 defending Gods found themselves totally unsuitable for their task. Despite fleeing through the air at their top speeds the Goddesses were unable to get more than 10 meters from the Dragon Lord. In fact he often caught the one holding the orb only for it to be passed on before he could claim it.


    The Gods formulated a plan, the 5 blockers rushed out of Roeg-Hiam''s domain. This resulted in him immediately capturing the two Goddess. He pinned Zuriel down on the surface of the ocean and as Asturiel grabbed the flower to flee he held her in his magic and began to drag her back towards himself. It was then that the other 8 Gods used SMITE.


    SMITE was a special attack among the Gods, rather than a direct attack they used their Godforce to strum the strings of fate. The surge of power that hit their target was far greater than most Gods could generate on their own and the target of the attack couldn¡¯t avoid it. The result of 8 Gods doing at once against a single target should have been devastating but the result against a Dragon Lord was Roeg-Hiam the Midnight being stunned. For a second his foot and arm broke the ocean''s surface and he began to sink.


    In those seconds Asturiel broke free of his grip and escaped beyond the horizon, taking the prized flower with her.


    Roeg-Hiam righted himself, stepping back onto the water''s surface, and released Lady Zuriel.


    She smiled and raised her hand up to him. After a moment of pouting Roeg-Hiam grudgingly helped her to her feet.


    "No hard feelings Dragon Lord Midnight, you win some you lose some."


    "Lady Zuriel I don''t believe anyone appreciates being drugged. Please destroy that flower."


    "Sorry Lord Midnight."


    She and the other Gods left the mortal plane, without him holding them with his domain leaving became very easy.


    Roeg-Hiam opened his wings and floated off the surface of the ocean while in deep thought about the attack the Gods had used on him.


    No one knew Roeg-Hiam had gained complete knowledge of Mana when he reincarnated. With his Dragon Lord abilities he seldom needed to use his Mana manipulation.


    ''Smite works on all living creatures¡­ plants are alive so they must have a fate string to be plucked.'' He mused to himself.


    Meanwhile on a heavenly plane the Gods gathered around their new prize.


    A petal and a few leaves were missing but on the whole the flower was alive and well preserved. Asturiel handed over to Zuriel with a big smile. Zuriel raised the flower over her head and the Gods cheered.


    "Once we cultivate these flowers we''ll be able to drug the Dragon Lords and take them by surprise. It will only be a matter of time before we are free of those Star-beasts forever!''


    No sooner than she had finished speaking when the Gods heard the strings of fate and felt the surge of power. The Ambrosia flower exploded into ash.


    The Gods looked around astonished.


    They were all present and none of them had done it. They followed the remnants of the surge of power to its source only to find themselves looking out of the heavenly plane directly into the face of Roeg-Hiam the Midnight.


    He wasn''t using his Dragon Rules to block them. He wanted them to know.


    Roeg-Hiam smiled at the Gods before activating his Dragon Rules and closing the connection.


    Before, Dragon Lords made the Gods cautious. Now one had used Godforce, it made the Gods scared.


    ***


    The Goddess Asturiel returned to her own plane after Roeg-Hiam the Midnight¡¯s display of power. She opened her hand to study the petal and leaves she tore from the Ambrosia flower before giving it to Zuriel.


    She was at a crossroads; give the pieces to her sister to be used as a failsafe or use them to continue with her own plans.


    This would be a difficult choice.


    ***


    Roeg-Hiam returned to the island. His human sensibilities told him he had drugged and raped the Dryads and should be punished. He reminded himself he wasn¡¯t human. Not anymore. Laureline had constantly reminded him he had silly beliefs.


    When he woke them Laureline was once again proven correct rather than being afraid or upset with him. The Dryads fawned over him.


    The grove mother, Tulip even apologized for the flower. The Dryads had no idea what effect the flower had, this was an incident big enough to reignite the war between Dragon Lords and Gods.


    Roeg-Hiam in turn apologized profusely over his lack of control and using his lust aura on them but once they realised he wasn¡¯t going to harm them for harbouring the Ambrosia flower they became very forward with their sexual advances.


    He was going to refuse but remembering his new reality he offered them a place in his Harem, which they enthusiastically accepted.


    Roeg-Hiam informed Laureline he was increasing his harem and brought the entire forest into his Realm and planted it about his mountain.


    Grove mother Tulip submitted to Laureline immediately. The crown like brambles on her head fell off indicating she was no longer in charge.


    Roeg-Hiam decided to put the incident behind him but he was once again reminded of how alien this world was from his past reality.


    With 2 days left before his return to Alstroemeria Roeg-Hiam got as many Dragon Lords as he could on a call and told them about the incident with the Ambrosia flower.


    The 12 oldest Dragon Lords were incensed that one of those flowers had survived the culling, if Roeg-Hiam had not taken the Dryads into his Harem they would have died in Dragon fire. The elder Dragon Lords were mollified when Roeg-Hiam told them he was able to destroy it. But the tension between the Dragon Lords and the Gods was once again high.

 CHAPTER 13 - THE KIND OF POWERFUL THAT DOESNT SHARE SHIT

    CHAPTER 13 - THE KIND OF POWERFUL THAT DOESN''T SHARE SHIT


    Roe returned to Alstroemeria Kingdom and his home base in Bitalistan.


    As he entered the city once again in his human disguise he ran into some members of the city guard he knew and joined them for the drink. Serendipitously their place of choice was the brothel on the dock. This time because he was in a large group that had more than a few regulars and also because how much he spent when drinking here last time many ladies paid him attention.


    Roe flirted shamelessly, a few of the guards left for the private rooms with some ladies but Roe refused to partake, his intention was to only have sex with women he would offer a position in his harem..


    That being said one of the girls had caught his interest but he noticed that although she was in the group, the men were polite to her rather than grabby like they were with the other girls. Curious Roe asked one of his new friends, Officer Jessup.


    "Friend Jessup, why is everybody being polite but avoiding that one. Why is such a beautiful cat girl not getting any love?" Jessup looked to where Roe had indicated.


    "Look at her colouring Friend Roe, amongst the cat tribe the black furred ones are the Shamans. Even if she''s untrained it''s still better to avoid her attention and to be polite." Officer Jessup replied.


    Common citizens were uncomfortable around magic users and macho men like the guardsmen Roe was drinking with avoided powerful women, though none of them would admit it.


    As he had been warned off, Roe didn¡¯t draw attention to himself and had instead enjoyed the drinks while looking around for the beastkin dog girl Constance, whom he had met on his first visit.


    As the morning was winding down and everyone were preparing to leave, Roe still hadn''t seen the sick beastkin female, so he sized up the black haired cat girl that had caught his eye earlier in the night, she was the only one who had been unsuccessful in luring anyone to the private rooms nor had she made any large tips, earlier in the night because of the men''s fear.


    Knowing she would be lacking money Roe pulled her into a quiet corner, holding her close in the dark where no one could see them properly. He held a platinum bar up to her face.


    "I have a question." He stated. Her bright green eyes flicked back and forth between his eyes and the platinum bar.


    "Go ahead, ask." She replied but didn''t reach for the fortune.


    "I''m looking for Constance, I didn''t see her tonight." Roe paid close attention to the cat girl¡¯s reaction. Her ears drooped and her eyes went from hungry for the money to concerned.


    "She''s not doing well. I don''t think she''s got long."


    Roe thought about it. Constance wasn''t going to survive if he didn''t intervene.


    "Take me to your owner." He said, handing over the bar.


    She took the platinum bar, holding it to her bosom.


    "Are you the one Connie spoke about, the one who paid for her to drink with him?"


    "And if I am?" Roe queried. The black cat beastkin was remarkably still. Watching him like only a predator could. Roe met her gaze steadily until she shuddered and recoiled from him.


    "Take me to your owner."


    The cat girl regathered her courage. Holding up the same platinum bar she had just acquired she once again pressed herself against Roe.


    "Please! Buy me too!" She pleaded with unshed tears in her eyes.


    "I''m literate, you can ask, I taught many of the girls to read. I''ve got the talent for magic, I''m untrained but I can still be used to activate spells. And I can cook, clean and fuck as good as anybody." She finished her ramble.


    "How would your life be better as my slave as opposed to being here?" Roe asked her, he was curious as to why she would take the chance to make this request. If he told her master she may be punished severely.


    "You''re powerful, the real kind of powerful, the kind of powerful that doesn''t share shit. I want to be yours."


    "Your name."


    "Tabitha."


    "I''ll consider it." Roe stepped away from her warm embrace, leaving the platinum bar in her hand.


    While he hadn¡¯t said no he had not agreed either leaving Tabitha feeling uncertain. She turned and led the way to the office putting a little extra sway in her hips as she climbed the stairs hoping this potential new master would notice.


    Roe did notice, Tabitha''s physique was like a sprinter, she looked mostly human if not for her grey skin colour, her cat-like ears which were in the same place as a human''s but very expressive and the black silky tail that grew out just above her hips where a strip of fur running down her spine ended. Her overall look was exotic and erotic.


    There was a guard at the door marked Mr. Tobias, the guard knocked and announced them before a soft voice called for them to enter. This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    The office was plush, with a shag rug, leather chairs and a massive fish tank that dominated the back wall.


    Occupying the room was another massive guard, a beautiful woman mixing drinks and a thin sharp looking man with silver hair and cold blue eyes who was sitting at the desk.


    "Please sit. What business do we have?"


    The sharp man asked. His voice rumbling and low.


    "I''m looking to buy one of your slaves." Roe replied. The sharp man looked from Roe to Tabitha.


    "Good to see you aren''t a superstitious fool. I can part with Tabitha for 5 platinum bars."


    "... That is a little steep. A virgin beastkin female sells for 50 gold coins, you are trying to sell me one that has probably been fucked by every sailor to hit port for 5000 gold coins. Are you serious?" Roe asked. The man laughed, sitting back to size Roe up.


    "If you wanted a fresh slave you wouldn''t be here, you want Tabitha. So you''ll pay my price for my property."


    "I guess that is your right, although Tabitha is not the girl I was coming to get. No matter who I''m after I''m guessing the price would be similar."


    Tobias paused, he shook his head ruefully.


    "I should not have assumed, but yes, you are correct. The real money in my business is when some young Noble falls in love with one of my girls."


    "I guess that means you''re not afraid of offending anybody."


    "I may not go so far as to offend a Grand Mage but rich little noble sons looking to buy a mistress don''t scare me."


    "Well said, draw up two contracts Mr. Tobias, I''ll take Tabitha and the one named Constance."


    The beautiful woman delivered Mr Tobias drink before going to the bookshelf and giving him a ledger filled with blank contracts. Placing his palms on the two blank sheets he imprinted his command marks for each girl on to a separate paper.


    "Here are the contracts, where is my money."


    Roe took out his crystal Mage Tower card.


    Mr Tobias and his aide''s faces fell.


    Normal cards were black, the church''s cards white, regular Mage''s cards were silver, Grandmaster''s cards gold. Only one type of person was known to have a crystal card. Archmages.


    Roe tapped his card on the table and ten platinum bars appeared. He took the contracts from Mr. Tobias'' numb hand and stored them in his spatial pocket.


    "Tabitha go collect Constance and meet me downstairs. Make sure both of you are naked I paid for you, not your clothes.


    Tabitha scrambled out of the room, eager to obey.


    Mr Tobias'' mind raced trying to think of a solution to this predicament.


    ¡°I won''t deny the girls their clothes. In fact, let''s be reasonable Archmage, allow me to return 9 of these platinum bars to you and we will forget this unhappy incident."


    "No Mr Tobias, you''ve earned those, we''ll see if those 10 bars were truly worth it." Those words made it clear to Tobias that Archmage Roe was going to get revenge.


    For a moment he considered trying to kill the young looking man before him but good sense told him that would be suicidal. If Roe was going to kill him he''d already have done it. Whatever was coming Tobias'' way he''d probably survive, he just had to weather the storm.


    Roe went down stairs to find Tabitha carrying an unconscious Constance whose body had wasted away and had raw looking scabs around her mouth and genitals. Both girls only wore their slave collars.


    Tobias chased after Roe begging him to be reasonable but his pleas were ignored. Touching the two girls Roe teleported them to his home above the store.


    Tabitha stood there mouth agape as she stared at the luxurious living room.


    Roe smacked her ass, surprising her.


    "Lay her on the couch." Tabitha gently put Constance down. Roe brought two vials from his spatial pocket.


    "Feed her one and drink the other."


    He had both girls drink high level healing potions. As usual the results were astonishing. While Tabitha had seemed fine she had many hidden injuries from abuses and cheap abortions over the years. Roe watched with his magical sight as they all were healed. With Constance the transformation was drastic her skeletal figure and patched fur both filled. The sores and scabs on her skin healed immediately and in a few moments both women were the peak of health hugging and crying in joy at their escape from a cruel master.


    "Tabitha what did you do with the platinum bar I gave you?" Roe asked. Tabitha flinched at his question. She fell to her knees with her head bowed to the floor and answered in a small voice.


    "I gave it away."


    "I can''t hear you from down there, stand up and answer me."


    Tabitha got to her feet but refused to meet his eyes.


    "I gave it away." She said again. Her voice just as small.


    "To whom?"


    "One of the other women, I told her to buy medicine for the group." Tabitha stood there awaiting her punishment. Roe used his hand to lift her chin and waited the few moments it took her to look at him.


    "Good job."


    Tabitha''s eyes filled with tears. She grabbed Roe''s wrist and rubbed her face against his palm.


    "I thank the Gods you came Master." Tabitha said.


    Roe shook his head.


    "I am not under their dominion. They left you to rot. Say no more prayers to them in my presence." Both women were taken aback. Most people worshiped the Gods, a few heretics worshiped Demons and some people followed Dragon Lords. Was their new master one of these?


    Roe took out both of their slave contracts and incinerated them with Dragon Rule 17: Sever this broke the slave contracts. The collars around the girls'' necks disintegrated into motes of light.


    Constance shrieked and Tabitha''s face fell. They both looked aghast.


    "You''re throwing us away?" Constance tearfully asked.


    "I promise never to speak of the Gods again. Please Master give us a second chance." Tabitha begged.


    "I don''t believe in slavery, if you are mine act like you are mine and if you don¡¯t want to be mine leave." Roe replied with dominance. The two beastkin exchanged nervous looks.


    "I already told you. I want to be yours." Tabitha said, her voice still shaking..


    "Yes, me too. I am yours Master Roe." Constance bound off the couch to hug him, Tabitha quickly joined them.


    Roe noted their nakedness but decided he had some calls to make first.


    ¡°Korra, take these two to wash-up and find them a room.¡± Roe called out.


    Korra¡¯s avatar entered the room dressed in business attire and really high heels. It did not escape his attention how Tabitha and Constance¡¯s nipples hardened at her approach.


    ¡®So it¡¯s just not me, her presence does cause arousal like a real Succubus.¡¯


    Tabitha and Constance followed Korra out, all 3 holding hands.


    "I''ve never slept without the collar, it''s going to feel super weird."


    "If we go outside without collars won''t we attract trouble?"


    "If you ladies like collars so much I can make you very cute chokers that are also comfortable but I advise you to not wear them in the house, the Mistress may not like them." Korra could be heard replying to the girls as they went down the hall.


    Roe went to his office and called Archmage Eclinon. Over his few days in Bitalistan Roe had dined with the Conclave on several occasions, giving them an advance tour of his store and having them as guests in his home for drinks. Just like the Guardsmen they were becoming his fast friends. Eclinon answered quickly.


    ¡°Friend Roe, how are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing well friend Eclinon, I call about some business. This is going to sound strange but I wish to ruin somebody.¡±


    Eclinon laughed.


    ¡°There is always some fool who can¡¯t see the forest for the trees. Come on over, we¡¯ll plan in detail.¡±


    Roe made the trip to the Mage Tower and using various scrying techniques they discovered all of Tobias¡¯ secrets. As the founder of the Mage Tower Bank Eclinon was able to freeze Tobias accounts. All of his cards now flashed FRAUD. Eclinon contacted slave traders, alcohol vendors and put the word out through the Guards, guilds and nobles that Tobias had extorted the Mage Tower. Every one Eclinon contacted Roe sent an expensive gift to as an incentive to play ball and an advertisement for his soon opening store.


    The next few months began the worst time of Tobias'' life.


    Eclinon was impressed with the depth of Roe¡¯s wealth and although he had helped without asking for remuneration. Roe gifted him with a casting ring, most Mages carried a wand or staff to amplify their spells by up to 30%. The casting ring Roe gave Eclinon would boost his spells by 100% either doubling his power or allowing him to use half the power for the same effect.


    Both men parted amicably, sure that the other was a good friend to have.

 CHAPTER 14 - HOW MUCH I鈥橫 WINNING

    CHAPTER 14 - HOW MUCH I¡¯M WINNING


    Archmage Roe¡¯s Emporium opened to a massive crowd. His wares were varied and revolutions of already existing appliances. For example; Magic ice boxes were around for ages but Roe¡¯s Emporium sold magic refrigerators, the shelves for organization, division between freezer and fridge and adjustable temperatures opened many eyes. The same could be said for his stove burners and his Adventurer¡¯s kits.


    But his biggest hit was the affordable standardized Mana crystals. Mana crystals were a finite resource that were difficult to mine which made even low quality ones expensive. Roe''s absolute knowledge of Mana allowed him to grow Mana crystals in his Realm. They were all the exact same size and high quality but other than those two anomalies they were the same as all Mana crystals they even crumbled to dust when used up. A high quality Mana crystal of comparable size would sell for 75 gold coins but the Mana crystal booth sold one of his crystals for 25 gold.


    All the Mages crowded the counter hoping to get a share while supplies lasted. It quickly became evident that the Emporium had a limitless supply of the commodity.


    The grandmasters found Roe drinking with some Ministers and pulled him aside, he had not revealed the Mana crystal booth during their advanced tour. They questioned him about the technique to manufacture Mana Crystals but he refused to share it. This was his cash cow.


    Despite the deficit that this filled, not everyone was happy, a few merchants complained about a monopoly, Roe pointed out that those same merchants held the monopoly of importing Mana Crystals for years, he was now bringing in competition. Ambassadors from a few dwarven Kingdoms accused him of orchestrating an attack on their economies so Roe countered, they no longer needed to send so many of their citizens to their deaths in the volatile Mana Crystal mines. The ambassadors fumed but if they admitted that money was more important than lives they would quickly lose their positions.


    The store was open 24-hours a day but since it was run by the porcelain series of dolls Roe did not have to manage it himself. Once all the important guests had left he retired to his rooms upstairs. He collapsed into his couch in front of the fireplace feeling exhausted. Physically he did not get tired but mentally crowds wore him out.


    Constance brought him a sandwich and a cold beer


    "You¡¯re still bringing me food and drink I see."


    "I''m just trying to be helpful. Somehow your place seems to stay clean constantly and whenever I try to make something Korra seems to have gotten their first, I don''t know how that girl moves around so quickly. We were in the kitchen talking when she made you that sandwich so I brought it to you."


    "Food and drink is nice but the best thing you''ve brought me is your company. Put the tray on the table." Roe instructed. Constance did as he asked, she was wearing a simple white dress but because of her very expressive tail it hiked up at the back, giving Roe who was seated a beautiful view of her behind. He reached out, grabbed her by the hips and pulled her into his lap and proceeded to mercilessly kiss one pair of lips while his fingers explored the other.


    Constance was caught by surprise but she didn''t resist him, opening her thighs to give him better access. While her hands worked to open his shirt.


    "Well this looks like fun." A voice came from the doorway. Laureline sauntered into the room.


    Constance¡¯s eyes widened at the gorgeous Drow, she was unsure how to react, there were very few Drow in the human Kingdoms, was Magister Roe a spy?


    "Hi you." Roe greeted Laueline who walked to them, leaned over the couch and kissed him.


    "Hi to you too." Laureline said looking into his eyes. The depth of love in that simple exchange made Constance doubt herself. Roe looked down to her who was still in his lap.


    "Constance this is my wife Laueline, Laurel this is Connie." Constance tried to leap up but Roe dragged her back to his lap. Over and over again she struggled and failed to rise. Roe was having a good time laughing as Constance tried to escape his lap. Laureline on the other hand had noted how he had introduced her.


    "Oh husband I''m sorry, I thought you told them everything, I would have never appeared here looking like this had I suspected. Korra told me you took in two beautiful beastkin I figured you were going to keep them." Laureline was contrite. Constance ceased her struggles and addressed Laureline.


    "Greetings mistress my apologies for not being able to get up."


    "Korra and I aren''t the jealous types and I''m assuming you and the other one aren''t either or you wouldn''t be here. As for getting up, don''t bother. He''s a lot stronger than a human should be."


    "That''s a relief to know.


    Master I''d really like to stay, what is it that Tabitha and I are doing wrong?


    Why is it that you may not keep us?" Constance realized something was off.


    "No one has done anything wrong, and it is not me who would send you away but you two who may leave. Isn''t that right Tabitha?" Laureline and Constance turned to the door.


    Knowing she was caught Tabitha crept into the room blushing furiously. To her surprise Korra walked in behind her and joined Roe on the couch. Kissing him the same way Laureline did before exchanging an equally passionate kiss with Laureline herself.


    Roe continued.


    "The issue, Constance, is that Tabitha is having doubts. She is debating exercising her freedom and your loyalty and concern for her may make you join her. As such it''s best I keep my secrets for now."


    "I never said I wanted to leave." Tabitha argued.


    "No you haven''t but when you told me you wanted to be mine in the club you meant it. When you said it again after I removed your collar you were no longer sure. I know when someone is telling the absolute truth." Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    Tabitha''s face became distressed. Constance also looked hurt. She finally escaped Roe''s lap to appeal to her friend.


    "Oh Tabitha, he paid a fortune for us. We both know we weren''t worth that price¡­" Roe stopped her quickly.


    "Constance!" She jumped mid sentence. "I know that not having it matters, but to me money isn''t significant, past keeping score. Please don''t mention it again."


    "Keeping score? Of what?" Laureline asked.


    "How much I''m winning at life." Roe smirked.


    "But seriously, Constance, the money doesn''t matter. I set you two free. You are no longer slaves. Your lives and how you want to live them is up to you."


    Constance pouted, feeling truly vexed by Tabitha. Roe came to buy her, Tabitha begged her way into his good graces and was now looking to run away without repaying her debt!


    But Master Roe had asked Constance not to mention money so she held her words.


    "So Tabitha," Roe returned his focus. "What is it that you want?" Tabitha sat there wringing her restless hands feeling frustrated. She decided to just speak her mind.


    "Master I am truly thankful for my rescue, but since you have granted me freedom I want to explore it."


    Tabitha got to her feet, her restlessness spreading to her entire body causing her to pace the floor. "I want to be a Shaman, if I can get to the Dragon Lands and find a teacher.


    I''m sure I can convince someone to teach me. I''m tired of being helpless , abused and used. I am sick to death of human men. I wish every last one of them would just die!" Tabitha froze in realization of what she had admitted. Laureline and Korra were both amused while Constance was aghast. Master Roe was human.


    Tabitha rushed to kneel before Roe.


    "Master Roe, please forgive me. I wasn''t referring to you, and I know you said not to mention the money but I will pay you back if I succeed." Roe held her face and looked deeply into her eyes.


    "Oh little kitty if only you were wise enough to be mine. I would heal all those wounds and fill that void." Tabitha found herself being drawn into Roe''s eyes, her libido that had been severely dampened from being pimped out for so many years awakened. For the first time she felt true arousal with no hint of fear.


    Roe sat back, releasing her face and turned to Laureline, breaking the spell between himself and Tabitha who collapsed onto his thighs panting for breath.


    "Laureline love, are there any Sharmans in our territory we can apprentice her to?"


    "Yes husband, there are many Clans from every tribe in our territory. I¡¯ll arrange a teacher and their payment."


    "You''re giving her more?" Constance was incredulous until she noticed Roe regarding her.


    "That brings us to you little pup, Tabitha is leaving, are you?"


    Constance¡¯s decision was solidified by Roe''s treatment of Tabitha. If Roe had given Tabitha her freedom by putting her out onto the streets Constance would have gone with her, she saw Tabitha as a member of her pack and no matter how confident Tabitha was she wouldn''t make it on her own.


    The support of paying for Tabitha''s education and granting her a chance to fulfill her dream made what she said next easy.


    "Master Roe, I''ll stay." She replied to Roe with conviction before addressing Tabitha. "Tabitha I love you but since Master Roe has helped you again you won''t need me. I''ll stay with him and pursue my own happiness, I''ve seen too many shitty men over my lifetime to toss aside a magnificent one." Tabitha watched her friend''s determined face while tears spilled down her own cheeks.


    "He''s offering us real freedom, Connie! To do whatever we dream! Don''t throw that away because of a sense of indebtedness." Tabitha pleaded with Constance.


    Constance smiled and shook her head.


    "Being free was my dream and I''m the one making the wise decision. He''s doing all that for you who wants to leave, what will he do for me who wants to stay?


    From now on I''ll be one of Master Roe''s mates."


    The room descended into silence. Tabitha stood, she quickly decided she couldn¡¯t be there anymore.


    "Mistress Laureline we can depart at your earliest convenience." Tabitha said bowing deeply to Laueline. Who sighed at the beastkin girl''s rashness.


    ¡°Fine, let¡¯s not waste time. Husband I came to meet my new sisters but I ended up ruining your fun and rushing their decisions. Once again, sorry.¡± Laureline hugged Roe from behind, leaning over the couch. He kissed her tenderly on the cheek.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just think of it as fate love.¡± He said.


    Laureline picked Tabitha into her wake as she marched out the room. Behind her she could hear Roe seducing his new puppy. She¡¯d have to ask Korra to let her watch a recording of them later.


    Behind Laureline, Tabitha was second guessing herself. Constance had made an excellent point, she could Shamanism have remained the Archmage¡¯s female and learn magic but she had rashly announced her disgust with humans, there was no turning back.


    Laureline stopped in front of an ornate door that Tabitha had noticed but for some reason never tried to open. Laureline put her hand on the handle and paused. She turned to face Tabitha. Laureline was only a little taller but she suddenly exuded such a regal aura than Tabitha felt very tiny.


    ¡°I apologize to you as well. Had more time passed I¡¯m confident you would have chosen differently so let me give you one last chance. Once this door is opened you will know too much to come back. Are you sure?¡±


    Tears sprang from Tabitha¡¯s eyes. She had tried really hard to be strong and brave like the world said she should be.


    ¡°Of course I¡¯m not sure! I am wracked with doubt, but I¡¯m grown up now, I must be self dependent, I can¡¯t just give into my fears and run back into his embrace!¡± Tabitha sagged down the wall, Laureline knelt beside her and held her hands.


    ¡°Oh Tabitha, being an adult doesn¡¯t mean you have to face the world alone. It simply means that you are responsible for your decisions, and the consequences are yours to bear.¡±


    ¡°This one decision is already tearing me apart. So many beastkin pray for their freedom everyday, if I don¡¯t take mine, am I not spitting in their faces?¡± Tabitha sobbed.


    ¡°Tabitha, there are no manacles on your wrists or ankles, your collar is gone and no one is chasing after you to bring you back. The only chains still binding you are in your mind.¡± Tabitha ran one of her hands around her neck and looked away from Laureline¡¯s intense eyes. Tabitha steeled her resolve and pushed herself up to her feet and off the wall.


    ¡°You are right, I¡¯m trapped by my own beliefs. Whether I stay or go I¡¯ll be plagued with doubts but if I go I can at least look my ancestors in the eyes. You are again right, the consequences of this decision will be mine alone to bear. Please milady, guide me through the door to my new life.¡±


    Laureline rose to her feet, regaining that regal air and opened the door.


    There was a different hallway beyond with similar doors and massive stone guardians. Laureline led Tabitha through a black door with gold trim and into an opulent master bedroom.


    Walking through those two doors, Tabitha immediately felt she had changed locations. A quick glance through a window showed a beautiful morning sky with clouds far below. This was an Airship.


    Laureline flowed into an attached office and rang a bell, before sitting at an intimidating desk. A lovely dryad rushed in and curtsied deeply.


    ¡°Welcome back Matriarch, how may I serve?¡±


    ¡°Tulip, this girl is Tabitha, she is my temporary ward. Find her a room and have the captain change course to Fegran.¡± Finished speaking with her assistant, Laureline turned to address Tabitha.


    ¡°I¡¯ll call ahead to the city lord, and let him know we''ll need the very best teacher for you. Study hard and learn well.¡± Laureline then turned her attention to a pile of paperwork awaiting her.


    Tabitha knew she had been dismissed but something she heard made it so she couldn¡¯t move.


    ¡°Milady, she just called you ¡®Matriarch¡¯. Is Master Roe a Dragon Lord?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, I am officially the Matriarch of Roeg-Hiam the Midnight. You will keep his identity as Magister Roe a secret.¡±


    ¡°Milady had I known I would have¡­¡±


    ¡°What? Chosen differently? He already demonstrated that he¡¯s kind, wealthy and powerful. Why should knowing he¡¯s a Dragon Lord make a difference?" Laureline sighed and rubbed her brow. She could hear the frustration in her own voice. Laureline felt like she herself was rejected by Tabitha, but Laureline knew that it wasn''t fair to be upset with her.


    "Tabitha, I do not wish for you to feel bad. Your decision was a brave one, but now that you have made it, please do not whine. Tulip, take her to her room.¡±


    Tabitha bowed awkwardly and followed Tulip out.


    For the next hour Laureline found her mind returning to Tabitha, she couldn''t focus on the work before her. She needed to discuss this further with Roe.


    Quickly returning to the abode above the shop she went to the living room. Opening the door Laurel was greeted with Constance''s lusty moans.


    Constance was on her back with Roe deep inside her. Korra was bent over one of the couch''s handles catching her breath. The orgy was in full swing. Roe pushed himself up to look at Laurel in the doorway. His smouldering eyes called to her.


    Tabitha was pushed to the back of Laurel¡¯s mind as she swiftly stripped to join the fun.

 CHAPTER 15 - OGNIL THE NOIR

    CHAPTER 15 - OGNIL THE NOIR


    They were all huddled up in bed, Korra was wrapped around Roe¡¯s back, while he spooned Constance. Laureline was facing Roe with Constance¡¯s head under her chin. The room was delightfully cool making their warm bodies very cozy.


    Constance had just started to softly snore when Laureline opened her eyes and called out to Roe.


    ¡°We need to talk about Tabitha, Roe.¡± She said. Roe opened his eyes, they glowed slightly in the dark.


    ¡°Let her go, Laurel. We have supported her more than necessary.¡±


    ¡°This game you play isn¡¯t fair Roe. Don¡¯t think I didn¡¯t realize you tricked me when we first met.¡±


    Roe smiled good-naturedly remembering Laureline nursing him back to health.


    ¡°I''m not sorry about that, getting to know you was a pleasure. Being a Dragon Lord is a huge cheat Laurel, no one is going to deny me if they knew the truth. It¡¯s better this way.¡±


    ¡°Not for her, she¡¯s now second guessing and kicking herself constantly. You were interested in her, so accept her. I swear sometimes you don''t know how the world works.¡±


    ¡°Laureline, I went after Constance. I only bought Tabitha because I liked how she grasped an opportunity, I respect decisive thinking.


    When a new possibility opened up, she jumped at it, her idea of full independence. Both you and Constance tried to tell her being independent doesn''t mean you have to go at life alone, but she has her beliefs, and I respect those too.


    This world has taught her that being a part of a Dragon Lord''s harem is like winning the lottery, so she wants back in now that she knows what I am, but in truth she is traumatized by her experiences with men and she chose what''s best for her. Unprejudiced by what I am.


    Regret can be an impossible wall or an unstoppable motivation. If she lets it stop her, she won¡¯t amount to much, either way, not my responsibility, and not yours either." Laureline became contemplative. Roe saw she wasn''t fully convinced.


    "Tell you what, I''ll keep an eye on her, when she finds a mate I''ll stop, ok? Until then no harm will come to her, that''s my best offer." He smiled as Laurel pouted, but nodded her head.


    The rest of the night went by in bouts of comforting rest and naughty fun.


    Over breakfast Laureline, Korra and Roe told Constance everything. She was ecstatic to find out Roe was a Dragon Lord. They spent the morning telling each other how they met Roe.


    Afterwards Constance got a tour of his Realm and finally saw Roeg-Hiam the Midnight in all his Draconian glory. Roe plucked a scale off of his arm to gift Constance in the seconds it took the scale to regenerate, it occurred to Roe that his scales were the perfect proxy for the Magic tower¡¯s cards. When it came to accessing his vaults. He was already using them for keeping in contact with his women. He quickly stitched spells together to give functionality to the scales Laureline, Korra and Constance had.


    By the time all their business was concluded it was well after noon. Korra made them a sumptuous lunch which they enjoyed on the beach of his realm, it was nearly evening when Laureline returned to Roeg-Hiam''s territory to check on Tabitha and do some paperwork. Constance had decided to follow Archmage Roe as a secretary until she could think of something she''d rather do.


    Around Constance¡¯s neck sat a delicate looking silver choker with Roe¡¯s scale seated in it like a precious gem. The accessory could pass for a very expensive slave collar, this would deter people from harassing Constance when she was alone. Beastkin slaves that belonged to the wealthy were treated well since few could afford to offend such noble houses.


    As they headed about the city, enjoying the good life Roe felt a familiar fluctuation, he had walked into a Dragon Lord''s Rules. Unlike him, most Dragon Lords never deactivated their rules. While playing in the God lands they would avoid staying in populated areas for too long, thus avoiding a divine visit like the one he had.


    Roe followed the fluctuations to their source, the royal library. While not as extensive as the Magic Tower¡¯s library this one held many books about other subjects including all of the Kingdom''s non-classified military reports.


    It was in the section of court reports that Roe found an unassuming young Elf male pouring over a massive tome. His eyes moved rapidly back and forth as he read and his ears twitched happily. So engrossed was he that Roe and Constance¡¯s arrival went totally unnoticed until they sat down.


    He jumped in his seat before bringing his Dragon will to bear.


    "I''m not here, you don''t see me, move on!" He intoned.


    Constance swooned in her seat before a pulse from the scale on her choker washed over her negating the order.


    The Elf paid very close attention to that choker before his eyes snapped to the seemingly human Mage that was equally unaffected by his command.


    "Greetings brother." Roeg-Hiam said, shedding his human guise for his Dragon Newt form and activating his Dragon Rules.


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    The young Elf hid behind his tome, peeking over it to see the more imposing form sitting before him.


    "G-greetings¡­ I-I haven''t created one of those forms yet.


    Just now, you had your Dragon Rules off. Isn''t that dangerous?"


    Roeg-Hiam smiled.


    "Excessively, but it''s the only way to truly avoid the Gods. Besides, I''ve managed to master the human magics, which offer me some protection."


    "I see. I''ve tried the human magics but the way they move mana is so convoluted, your mana control must be impressive." The Elf stated. As they spoke he slowly came out from behind the book.


    "I am Roeg-Hiam the Midnight, this is Constance one of my women." Roeg introduced himself first. The Elf blinked wildly, realising his faux-pas.


    "I am Ognil the Noir. Forgive my manners, I only awakened about a year ago and you are the first Dragon Lord I have met."


    " ''The Noir?'' Good brother are you a Black Dragon like myself?" Roeg-Hiam was delighted, since finding Bo-Gradoom the two have been in contact almost daily and had quickly become the best of friends. Adding another member to their flight would be fantastic.


    Ognil nodded. His Dragon Lore let him know how flights worked and that the Dragon Lord before him would be someone he would be able to rely on.


    "Well that¡¯s good. I''ll have to arrange your introduction to the other Dragon Lords. But let''s put that aside, what are you doing in the God lands? They tolerate us but don''t like us."


    "There is nothing to read in my territory. I haven''t even claimed it." Ognil said in disgust. It turned out Ognil''s territory was dominated by nomadic beastkin. The Underdark in his territory was sprawling Dwarven farms growing tubers, mushrooms and raising moles and grubs for protein. There were few scribes and less documentation. With so little literacy, there were definitely no libraries.


    "I realise I''m weird, Brother, I have no interest in treasure. I just want to read books."


    "You are not weird, brother, your horde can be whatever you want it to be. If yours is knowledge, so be it.¡± Roeg-Hiam¡¯s acceptance of his quirk made Ognil very happy.


    ¡°Be that as it may,¡± Roeg-Hiam continued. ¡°it is only a matter of time before the Gods confront you about being here.


    Let me offer a proposal.


    We build a Grand Library in your territory, we get help from the other Dragon Lords in gathering knowledge. Then it will be up to you to read, catalog, save and arrange it.¡±


    Ognil¡¯s eyes lit up.


    ¡°A repository for all knowledge." He smiled at his love of the idea.


    The two black Dragons were deep in discussion, Ognil had finally put down the tome and was gesturing animatedly when there was a shift in the air.


    Reog-Hiam recognised the fluctuations immediately, they had company. Goddesses Zuriel and Asturiel walked around the corner. Reog-Hiam could feel the other 5 Gods concealing themselves.


    "See Lady Zuriel, I was correct. There is more than one of them." Asturiel pointed out huffily.


    "Well met Dragon Lords." Zuriel greeted politely. "You are once again in the God Lands. What is your business this time Roeg-Hiam the Midnight?"


    Roeg-Hiam leaned back in his chair, his relaxed body language infuriated Asturiel.


    "Welcome Goddess, grab a seat. You know my brother Ognil."


    Constance leapt to her feet and held the seat for Zuriel. Dragons didn''t care about class differences but some Gods did, she didn¡¯t know how the two goddesses believed, so while Constance understood her standing had changed she still decided it was best to be as humble as possible.


    Zuriel accepted the gesture, Asturiel decided to remain standing, but she assessed Constance.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a while since you prayed to us Constance.¡± Asturiel began. ¡°Just because you¡¯ve been taken into a Dragon Lord¡¯s harem doesn¡¯t mean you have to give up your faith.¡±


    Constance looked to Roeg-Hiam for guidance.


    ¡°Speak your mind Constance, they no longer control your fate.¡± Roeg-Hiram assured her. Constance took a deep breath to steel her will before replying.


    ¡°With all due respect Goddess, I was born in captivity and from the time I was old enough to understand what that meant I have been praying for salvation. Salvation from the whip when I was a child, salvation from the male farm hands when my body started to develop, salvation from the brothel when I was sold there, salvation from plague I caught, and finally salvation from death as I stood at its door. The Gods never answered.¡±


    ¡°You believe you were treated unfairly, but that was just your fate. You would have found peace in death, joining us in the heavenly plane.¡± Asturiel replied.


    ¡°Temporarily,¡± Roeg-Hiam interjected. ¡°No soul stays on the heavenly plane permanently, they are usually reincarnated within a decade. Life is a lottery, with the ratio of nobles to peasants to slaves; the chance of being reborn a Noble is low while the chance of being reincarnated a slave is astronomical.¡±


    ¡°Humph, that 10 year respite on the heavenly plane is a fantastic boon. Those that forsake Gods to follow Dragon Lords don¡¯t get that, Dragon Lords don¡¯t have heavenly planes. When their followers die they go straight into the cycle of reincarnation.¡± Asturiel argued.


    ¡°A respite that you do not remember is no respite at all.¡± Roeg-Hiam rejoined. ¡°We Dragon Lords offer real benefits, we attach fortune to the souls of our vassals. The lifetime following service to us is a charmed one. No matter what status they are born into, things will go their way. Whether it¡¯s the slave wanting to be free, the knight wanting to marry a princess, the merchant looking for business opportunities or the noble seeking true love, their desires will be attainable.¡±


    ¡°I knew none of these things.¡± Constance said, bringing the conversation back on track. ¡°All I know is that the Salvation I needed came from a Dragon Lord. I¡¯ve stopped praying to the Gods because¡­ putting faith in them, in you, is ¡­ a bad investment.¡±


    Asturiel had no comeback for either of their statements so she dropped it for a different subject.


    ¡°This is the third time we¡¯ve found you in our territory, does the accord mean nothing to you Dragon Lord Roeg-Hiam?


    At least Ognil has the shame to disguise himself. You are so bold to come in your Dragon-newt form." Asturiel pointed out.


    Roeg-Hiam waved his hand as if shooing a bug and ignored Asturiel''s words, focusing on Zuriel instead.


    "Lady Zuriel, let''s make a deal. I''ve decided what I want to buy with some Orichalcum." He said.


    Zuriel raised her hand stopping any further protest from Asturiel.


    "Please Lord Roeg-Hiam do not keep me in suspense."


    "I want to buy mundane knowledge." Roeg-Hiam replied. The two Goddesses looked confused so Roeg-Hiam clarified.


    "My brother wishes to create a repository for knowledge, a grand library in his Territory. What I want to buy is all the records and reports from the mundane Kingdoms in the God lands. Past, present and future. Although they have no true value because of how much it will be I''ll pay a third of the Orichalcum I got from the attack."


    Zuriel thought it over. She had a mind to push for more, but Roeg-Hiam was asking for something the Royals of the Kingdoms would sell him for cheap gold.


    "You are offering too much, what''s the catch." Zuriel asked.


    "I''m paying for efficiency. I want a God to deliver a Croncrystal every month with the information on it. Otherwise it would be a tedious task."


    Zuriel agreed. She turned to the troublesome Asturiel.


    "Lady Asturiel is the Goddess of knowledge this task is well suited to her." Asturiel looked aghast.


    ''You would have me work with these wyrms?'' She hissed mentally to Zuriel.


    ''Yes, the book wyrm to be precise. Maybe interacting with them more often may tone some of this hostility you seem to have.'' Zuriel replied with one perfect raised eyebrow.


    Roeg-Hiam and Ognil exchanged a look of their own. Noticing the silent exchange.


    "Since we have an accord." Roeg-Hiam turned this hand and produced the Orichalcum sphere, handing it to Zuriel while Asturiel conjured the Croncrystal with the past records. This one would be the most arduous, as such it glowed with a lustre not often seen. It was also very large. Ognil took possession of it immediately.


    "I look forward to your future deliveries, Goddess. We''ll be leaving your territory now. Sorry for the intrusion." Ognil replied, he spoke with eloquence that hid his earlier shyness.


    The Dragon Lords and Constance took their leave heading to the center of Ognil¡¯s Territory.


    Asturiel watched them go. She paid special interest in Constance. She would have to talk to her former master to find out how she ended up being in a Dragon Lord''s harem.

 CHAPTER 16 - A REPOSITORY FOR ALL KNOWLEDGE

    CHAPTER 16 - A REPOSITORY FOR ALL KNOWLEDGE


    Ognil took out his deed and raised it aloft.


    REJOICE


    THIS TERRITORY HAS BEEN CLAIMED BY DRAGON LORD OGNIL THE NOIR


    Ognil had officially claimed his territory. Above ground most of Ognil¡¯s Territory was desert with a massive life bringing river running through it. All of the fertile land was along the banks of the river. Near the center of the territory there was a massive U-bend in the river. It was here Ognil decided to build his edifice.


    Making use of Dragon Rules 12 Domain, and 21 Craft, Ognil changed the composition of the riverbed into an impermeable stone. The water would be unable to change the river¡¯s course over time.


    Ognil raised the land inside the u-bend forty feet above the river and transformed it into a park with many seating areas. Down below by the water¡¯s edge he added piers to the left and right of the inner bend to accommodate future visitors.


    An acre back from the u-bend he began a glorious complex. A wide circular tower with 10 levels, 4 descended into the Underdark, two in the bedrock and 4 extending into the sky. At the centre of the tower a circular industrial elevator for when entire shelves needed to be moved between levels. Wrapped around the mine like shaft was a series of spiral staircases and regularly sized elevators.


    Ognil then went into the details, he added outbuildings to house staff, staff areas and public restrooms on each floor of the library. He made the library self-cleaning and air-conditioned. He ensured the books and staff were safe by adding scrying magic and guardian golems.


    Beyond his complex, Ognil made the land fertile and gentle to encourage settlement. He believed that in the future his library would be a place of great significance to the world and this area would develop exponentially.


    But that was the far future, right now Ognil felt it would be a long time before he filled any layer of his Library so he built each layer to be divided into sectors, they reminded Roeg-Hiam of cake slices.


    Ognil could replicate any book he had read but so far he had only read a few hundred books, even if he made 5 copies of each book he couldn''t even fill the shelves on one of the first floor sectors but he still decided to move forward and only open the library ''one slice'' at a time.


    Fortunately while Ognil was building Roeg-Hiam put out the call to the other Dragon Lords, of course the first to arrive was Bo-Gradoom. He dropped what he had scheduled to make the trip. He buzzed with happy energy. His flight had grown again and unlike Roeg-Hiam there was something he could do to help Ogni, he was more than ready.


    It didn¡¯t take long for other Dragon Lords to arrive and as usual when the Dragon Lords got together it became a party. Roeg-Haim stopped anyone from interrupting Ognil during his Crafting. Once he was finished he finally realised he had guests and joined the celebration.


    Ognil had taken his true form while crafting, he was similar size to Roeg-Haim but where Roeg-Hiam looked like a cloudless night sky Ognil the Noir was a glossy black like fresh ink, his scales sat flat and flush so he looked frictionless. Like the other two black Dragons he had seven limbs, 2 arms, 2 wings, 2 legs and a tail, unlike them he had 4 eyes.


    When he joined the celebration he remembered he had yet to make a Dragon Newt form and everyone began making suggestions. Tall, short, thin, glasses, a crown; all sorts of fashion choices were tossed out.


    Ognil liked the idea of switching from four literal eyes to a stylish pair of glasses and he went with a slender taller build for his body. Everyone cheered and their get together was in full swing. Everyone caroused using their magic to generate various beverages and exotic foods they wanted the others to sample.


    It wasn¡¯t until late into the night that Roeg-Haim got to the reason he called them all together.


    ¡°My dear brothers, I called you here before Ognil finished his crafting, not to simply celebrate the opening of his Library but to participate. You have travelled far and have lived long. There are stories, songs and languages that have long been forgotten that live in your heads. Please transcribe them as a donation to the Ognil¡¯s Repository for All Knowledge.¡±


    The Dragon Lords cheered, this was such a little thing to ask and it was obvious to them that Ognil¡¯s hoard was knowledge. He thanked them profusely while fighting back tears.


    Each Dragon Lord fabricated the books they read over their lifetime. The elder Dragon Lords were able to donate tens of thousands of titles while the younger ones had few books that the elders had not already given.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    What all found amazing was that Roeg-Hiam''s donation was not only the largest but also had stories none had read before.


    His previous life was filled with entertainment; novels, comics, TV shows, Movies, video games. Roeg-Hiam distilled them all into books for Ognil¡¯s library.


    The other Dragon Lords found themselves drawn into dramas the likes of which they had never seen.


    While the others were distracted Bo-Gradoom pulled Roeg-Hiam aside.


    "Dragon Lords go into heat every century or so. Two black Dragons awakening within months of each other is unlikely. Your knowledge and your mana reservoir are vast. How long has it been since you awakened?"


    Rather than lie to his friend Roeg-Hiam answered as honestly as he could.


    "I can remember roughly 90 years of life." Roeg-Hiam said, if his past life was added he was indeed over 90 years old.


    Bo-Gradoom sighed.


    "The Gods knew about both of you and told none of us. I wonder how many other Dragon Lords are wandering about not knowing their kin."


    Roeg-Hiam consoled Bo-Gradoom with a pat on the shoulder.


    "Even though the majority of us were born here, the Gods see all Dragons as foreign invaders. The Sky-fall Treaty stops them from directly harming us but they go out of their way to not be of too much help. There is nothing we can do."


    "You''re right." Bo-Gradoom returned to his seat and picked a book to read. "Star Wars? This sounds interesting."


    ***


    Over the next few months the Repository grew. With a visit from Asturiel once a month to bring reports from the God land kingdoms Ognil always had something new to read and transcribe; he also duplicated the donated books but soon realised he preferred reading to transcribing.


    Ognil put out the call through the other Dragon Lords for scribes and librarians, It did not escape his notice that he received mostly female applicants but he didn¡¯t know if it was the work of the other Dragon Lords or just fate. It also became apparent to him that despite not being interested in treasure it would take money to run his library.


    His territory brought him a certain amount of taxes but he could already see as his library grew his costs would skyrocket. Problems needed to be nipped in the bud.


    Discussions with his Flight lead him to use a subscription model to his library of course Dragon Lords and their harem read for free. Sadly most of the visitors so far were other Dragon Lords and their women, a few city lords started making the trek but the turnover was slow in the beginning.


    Roeg-Hiam saw an opportunity to help build his brother¡¯s territory. Using his knowledge of magic Roeg-Hiam built a teleportation hub outside of Ognil¡¯s repository. Together the two of them moved around the Dragon lands and installed a teleportation station in each capital city. The revenue from this new travel network was staggering and brought more than enough for Ognil¡¯s purposes but Roeg-Hiam wasn¡¯t done there.


    He then spent some time creating tomes on his understanding of Mortal magic. With his absolute understanding of Mana; the Magic, Shamanic, Enchantment and Sorcery books he created were vast and comprehensive. With these now in the restricted research only section of the Library Magic users from all over would be constantly using the Repository.


    Archmage Roe brought news about this amazing library to the Mage Association who used the teleportation hub to see for themselves.


    It wasn¡¯t long before The Repository itself was making a steady income of money.


    Ognil was eternally grateful for Roeg-Haim¡¯s efforts on his behalf. He felt delighted to have such a good brother.


    ***


    Meanwhile Asturiel was investigating Constance''s history discreetly.


    Tobias was packing his office. He had been forced to sell off his stock of slaves to make ends meet. His liquor license had been suspended. He was constantly investigated for sanitation. Without being able to sell food nor drinks and with his supply of slaves dwindling. He was forced to relocate.


    Maybe he would have better luck in another city under a different name.


    As he got up to leave a celestial light filled the room.


    Before Tobias stood the Goddess Asturiel. Her head brushing the 10 foot ceiling.


    Tobias dropped his box and prostrated before her.


    "Praise the Great Goddess!" Tobias called out.


    "TOBIAS, TELL ME WHOM YOU SOLD THE BEAST GIRL CONSTANCE TO." Asturiel asked, the fact that the knowledge was hidden from her put her in a foul mood and confirmed her suspicion a Dragon Lord was involved.


    ¡®The Goddess of knowledge was asking him for information. What an opportunity, many books spoke of her generosity.¡¯ Tobias thought. He may be able to take advantage of the situation.


    ¡°What reward will you give me for such sought after information, Great Goddess?¡±


    No sooner than the words left his mouth there was a blinding flash, devastating pain and Tobias found himself floating above his broken body. She had smite him.


    ¡°DESPITE YOUR RECENT HARDSHIPS YOU STILL HAVE ENOUGH WEALTH TO LIVE A LIFE OF COMFORT SOMEWHERE ELSE. ON THE OTHER HAND I CAN GUARANTEE YOU A HORRID FATE IN YOUR NEXT LIFE AND START IT RIGHT NOW.¡±


    Tobias finally realised that anyone writing a book containing this particular Goddess was obviously smart enough to flatter her and her sweet reputation may be a fabrication.


    "I sold her and another to Archmage Roe he took offense to my overcharging him that is why he has moved to ruin me. I beg for mercy, please."


    Asturiel ignored Tobias'' plea, focusing on the new information he had given. It seemed Tobias¡¯s troubles were tied to the same woman she was curious about.


    Now she needed to know the relation between Archmage Roe and Roeg-Hiam the Midnight. The similarity in name was not lost on her.


    ¡®Were they the same person? If so, how is he hiding his Dragon Rules? Was he actually stupid enough to turn them off?'' Remembering Tobias on the floor Asturiel cast his spirit back into his body and healed him before leaving.


    "CONTINUE YOUR MOVE, TREAT YOUR SLAVES BETTER AND I MAY SMILE ON YOU." She said as she faded away.


    She hadn''t told him anything he wasn¡¯t planning on doing already but the chances of him back sliding were gone. Tobias quickly left, the Goddess was right, he still had enough wealth to live it up. A new start is what he needed, somewhere far, far away.


    As for Asturiel, she was going to strike while the iron was hot. She entered Archmage Roe¡¯s Emporium unseen and ascended the steps to his private chambers.


    Roe had long sent Constance to stay with Laureline. If he kept her by his side after the Goddess noticed her they would know who he was as well. As it was, only Korra kept his company in the God lands.


    The two were enjoying each others company while Roe worked in his Enchanting laboratory when they both felt the Goddess'' intrusion. Since Roeg-Hiam had improved her Dungeon Core Korra was much more powerful, she could resist even divine beings now.


    The moment''s warning was sufficient to set a stage for what was to come.