ã€ŠGilded Cageã€‹


 Gilded Cage Chapters 1-3

    <u>Chapter: 1</u>

    Far within the lands of Lumara rests a feathered gem. One of no equal within their empire that spans across the shores of Sethera and beyond. Songs have been sung about the wonderous halls of Whitedell and its free spirted citizens. Even gravity is unable to chain the gryphons who call this place their home.

    This city rests around the dragon¡¯s crown shore, visited by many from across the stretches of the kingdom. Some say it is the second capital of Lumara, equally as important as Entis itself in maintaining their people¡¯s image.

    Mountains rose to kiss the sky, patrolled by airship and the watchful eye of their gryphon allies. The summer¡¯s tease the soul with their gentle caress, autumn is a beauty untold to witness. Creatures young and old whisper that it could be a paradise to spend your days.

    Upon one mountain sat an estate of great prestige, its granite pillars were expertly woven by dwarven hands, enchanted by elven spells and inscribed with the history of how gryphon kind had united itself with the human kingdoms. Spires draped in pure gold that sparkled like diamonds in the rising morning sun; gryphons in the distance announced it¡¯s coming, a welcomed crow typical to these lands. With it came the stirring fire to coax the sheepish beast, many a catbird shaking off their sleepy nature.

    Olas was one of these gryphons, residing in those mighty halls. He was one with no measure, a lord who held dominion over vast quantities of these lands. His upper half resembled that of an eagle, with mahogany scaled forelegs, his hands consisting of four digits tipped with shadowy colored talons; they currently found themselves clutching tight a crimson sheet of satin. An iron shaded beak was half open as he took in the morning air, eyes shut, still lost in a pleased dream. Soft warbles came in a steady pace matching the rise and fall of his chest, where cotton feathers ruffled. From those came feathers of rust, the edges lined with black along his neck, wing arms, cheeks, and ear tips. His lower half was that of a lion, his fur the color of a dove. His hind legs kicked as his dream continued, no doubt the lord lost within some grand chase. His tail flicked back and forth; its tip adorned with the same rust feathers that covered the rest of him.

    ¡°Time to wake up my lordship!¡± A sizable gryphon with almond feathers and fur chirped, pulling back the brown drapes that clung to a massive oval window. In came light to scare away the shadows.

    Golden light lovingly caressed his feathers, pinning back his rust-colored ears tipped with black. As consciousness returned to him, a dull ache pounded within his skull. He flopped to his back with a groan, a blackened talon scratching at his cottony underside. His tail swished casually between his legs. ¡°Olivia what time is it?¡±

    ¡°Time for the great Lord-Wizard Olas to rise his furry bum and get sorted.¡± Olivia replied, snapping her obsidian beak. Her eyes rolled as she sauntered to her master¡¯s side, his higher station over her seemingly forgotten as she continued with her casual speech. ¡°Will I have to roll you out of bed like last time? Cause I will.¡±

    He waggled a talon at her as his beak creaked open to a great morning yawn. ¡°I¡¯m quite capable of doing it myself Olivia. Now if you¡¯d be a dear and give me five more minutes, I¡¯ve a terrible headache.¡±

    The female gryphon ruffled her feathers, sliding through the bottles, ¡°Well no wonder, I¡¯ll say you swallowed enough to kill one of your horses!¡±

    ¡°In correct.¡± His ears stitched themselves to his neck, ¡°Gryphons can hold vast amounts of booze within them. I must have measured it precisely.¡± He lurched as morning sickness grabbed hold of him, coiling his body as Olivia chuckled.

    ¡°Of course you did my lordship.¡± She raised up and placed two talons upon him as he clenched his gingerbread-colored eyes shut, ¡°But no sleeping on me!¡±

    With a squawk of surprise Olas was rolled right out of bed, collapsing to the floor with a thud and pained groan. ¡°I¡¯m up, I¡¯m up!¡± He coughed; his ache not only contained to his head. He held his head, ¡°Was that needed?¡±

    ¡°Both of us know the answer to that.¡± She sauntered across the room towards the hall, flicking her tail feathers. ¡°Now freshen up and get down for breakfast. With any luck we can get you sorted before your lovely wife gets going again.¡±

    Olas was left to stumble to all fours, his entire being tingling, sore. Questions circulated what he¡¯d gotten up to last night. He groaned as it was a blur. The gryphon blinked his weary eyes, as he fluffed wings, exposing the cotton-colored ones that spread forth from his rust ones like the tide. The morning light warmed his fur, outside he could hear the songs of birds chirping away with out a care.

    His room came into focus, wiping away the fog of slumber. Paintings adorned the wall of himself, his daughter Luna right by his side, her red-orange eyes filled with so much delight as he held the once tiny gryphet. Beside the pair of happy gryphons was a statue of cold steel, the white and black furred visage of his wife Isadora. Even captured in paint, the gold jewelry she had wrapped around her foreplegs did little to hide the cold exuding from each angle.

    Olas averted his gaze, unable to bear looking upon her for another moment. He stumbled past shelves of magical books he called his own, personal research into the realms of the arcane. Some were of history gathered from Sethera and beyond, of which fascinated his mind for many a night. Those that were scattered formed a trail to a mighty bookcase, one that stretched high to the sprawling ceiling above, where a crystal chandelier did rest.

    Into his bathroom he stretched, slipping into a porcelain lined cast-iron tub that had already been drawn for him. Warm water teased his flesh, soaking feather, and fur as he slathered himself with pink soapy bubbles. For minutes he hummed to himself, drifting away, scrubbing at every inch that he could reach. Once done he slunk, dripping to the floor. Thankfully, a wizard such as he was already prepared for this. Planting himself onto his haunches his hand swished through the air as he chirped the words of draconic power. Magic energy bent to his will, lavender light twisting over him like threads of twine, casting away the moisture in the blink of an eye.

    Bone dry, the gryphon stretched, admiring every bit of himself. There he spotted his plump sheath the same color of his chest, nestled behind them two balls each one large enough to utterly dominate a human¡¯s palm. Between the pair was a thin line of black fur, a perfect addition if he so said himself. He warbled, there was not a single spot left of soapy or water to mar his pristine image. Then began the long task of preening his feathers, one at the time with his beak; long flowing motions accompanied with a pleasing, muffled warble. Even though it had been many hours since, the taste of the alcohol from the previous eve made him gag. Was that really how he¡¯d spent his night? Nursing one of many bottles like some drunken toddler? He recalled spending at first with his books and a terrible sense of loneliness overtaking him. He whimpered softly as he went over his feathers, realizing he¡¯d drowned that feeling one gulp after the other.

    Once presentable, he slunk back his crown feathers, giving himself a pleased chirp. Anyone who gazed upon this sight would find themselves in the presence of a reserved, prideful gryphon lord, not see the unease that twisted beneath his fur. He slipped into his regal attire soon after, bangles around his forepaws engraved with arcane runes. Onto his hinds he attached silk stockings, complete with golden stitching. Around his neck to complete the image went a raised collar, regal and fluffy to make the nobles of Entis jealous, to complete the image was a harness complete with pouches to store the many reagents that one such as he used for his spells. The leather was pressed with stars across it¡¯s black.

    Fastening the last buckle it fit him well, not biting at his fur like a wolf. Last thing he did was grab his spellbook, an old relic passed down within his flight. On it¡¯s cover was an embroidered dragon, one of gold and its wings outstretched. He gave a heavy sigh as he creaked it open and planted himself down upon his belly, tracing over spells and movements that had been written down with magical ink by previous magicians who¡¯d owned the book. He recited the words of power, the feeling of their magic ruffling his feathers and sinking into the marrow of his bones. With every one he completed a sense of warmth flooded his veins. This was how wizards prepared their spells each morning, reciting the ones they¡¯d need all the way through until the final activation phrase. These were unleashed whenever one needed, accompanied with the proper reagents and motions. It took an hour to finish preparing all the spells that he might dare. As a wizard grew in power their mind would be open to store an ever-growing list of spells, ranging in power and utility. Inexperienced mages if they tried to prepare the ones he did, would find it quite a life-threatening experience. the number and power of the ones he prepared would be life threatening.

    He sauntered into the halls with a bounce in his hind paws, the practice as invigorating as a cup of mintaonok, a minotaur coffee four times stronger than human¡¯s. For any commoner his home would be a place of great beauty, one to rival the king of Entis itself. The vast halls could fit multiple gryphons striding abreast, their wings able to stretch to full length. Statues filled the alcoves as he passed, of previous generations that once called this place home. Each one had a look of pride captured on their stoic beaks, their blank eyes following any who walked among them. Light filtered in from the numerous windows, capturing a welcoming sense to the tilted floors. The air smelled of gryphon, lavender and soap, courtesy of the help in keeping this place pristine.

    He strolled passed the library, the study, the place in which he practiced his combat stances and engaged in exercise. This was a path he¡¯d endured so many times that he could accomplish it with his eyes closed. As he neared the descending staircase, his body trembled, ears pinned. He caught the familiar grating chirps of his wife, chatting away wistfully to one of her noble friends.

    She was on her haunches, hinds clothed in elegant brown attire with gold stitching. Across every feather was a glint of light, like diamonds that caught the sunlight. Within her grasp was a crystal ball, allowing the gryphoness to contact whoever had a similar device. To her credit she seemed in a good mood, squawking away at some party she might plan, but all of it died as Olas started to descend the stairs.

    She snapped to him; red eyes with orange irises sharper than a dragon¡¯s claws. White feathers on her top half ruffled as her brow narrowed, upsetting the jewelry that adorned her blackened forelegs and neck. Her black tuft tail thrashed against the tile, as cold fury built within her gaze. ¡°Sorry dear I¡¯ll have to let you go; my pathetic excuse of a husband arrived.¡± Her ears stitched themselves to her head. As he approached, she lowered herself to threating display, her wings half stretched. ¡°You¡¯re still here?¡± She said with a voice dripping with resentment.

    ¡°It would appear so Isadora. I unfortunately slept in late, I just finished up preparing my spells.¡± He ignored how she followed him as he went about his stroll, like she was trying to ignite his fur aflame. Even as he searched out the kitchens, she followed on his hinds. ¡°Still angry about the other night I take it?¡±

    ¡°I caught you and that half-elf toy fucking like a pair of common beasts! In our bed! Of places!¡±

    His ears pinned. ¡°I¡¯ve told you, we didn¡¯t have time to find a tavern. One thing led to another-¡°

    She leaped at him, talons poised to tear out his throat.

    He easily dodged her attack, pushing himself away as a blue force field willed itself around him. Even still he stumbled back with a squawk, bumping into a surface holding a most treasured vase. Unfortunately, it went clattering to the floor, splintering into thousands of tiny pieces.

    ¡°A TAVERN? Like a fucking plebian? Do you have no shame, or have you simply lost your mind?¡±

    ¡°Already with the claws darling?¡± He shifted his weight and avoided another attack, the fierce gryphoness tasting nothing but air.

    ¡°Does it not occur to you what people might think of us! Of me!¡± She plucked one of the human help, currently dusting one of the many blinds. He yelped as she held him aloft, ¡°Do you want to fuck this one too!¡±

    ¡°What? No.¡±

    With a roar she hurled the man right at the gryphon, forcing him to catch him out of mid-air.

    ¡°See, no harm done.¡± He chirped, placing the man down, the color drained from his face.

    Isadora fumed, a rampaging beast yet soothed. Tail lashed as she held Olas in her gaze, feathers fluffed, filled with utter contempt. ¡°Father was right about you when he had us wed. That even though you would sire the heir of which we required for the treaty; you¡¯d amount to a poor, pathetic excuse of a gryphon.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t care about what your father thinks of me, especially not that long ago.¡±

    ¡°But it¡¯s remained the same all these years Olas. That you¡¯re a clueless, limp dick of a gryphon. One that will amount to a total embarrassment for both our families. If not for this arranged marriage, no one would suffer you. You¡¯re a boring, dull, lifeless that couldn¡¯t please a gryohoness if he wanted to.¡±

    Her biting words rested upon the air, tugged at his spirits like that of iron weights. She was trying to get a rise out of him, just as she always had. All he gave her was an indignant chirp, insisting to himself he¡¯d go to the kitchens, get his meal, and depart. She would not be victorious this day.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, run away! Just like the coward everyone knew you were to be! Olas Mystic feather, if only the people that knew you could see you right now!¡± When he didn¡¯t turn the gryphoness scowled, scoffed, and wheeling around, ¡°No matter, I tire of your commoner sucking face anyway!¡± The shattering of another vase accompanied her shriek.

    His heart pounded as he wandered into the kitchens, a bright spot in this house of darkness. A bowl of water had already been poured for him upon his weathered table, freshly polished. When he plopped down his hinds and ducked down for a drink he practically moaned at the water¡¯s delightful relief.

    Olivia came to him, placing a plate of eggs and bacon before him. She frowned, ¡°I told you, waiting would do you no good.¡±

    ¡°I know.¡± He groaned, thanking her for the meal.

    She shifted uncomfortably, ¡°Excuse me sir, this might be overstepping my bounds, but why put up with her cruelty? Could you not lash back at her?¡±

    His eyes narrowed, did she not think he¡¯d thought of such things? ¡°Yes, you were correct, that was an overstep.¡± He waggled a wing to her, ¡°Now have your leave of me, I¡¯d like to eat my meal in peace.¡±

    ¡°Understood.¡±

    As she turned, a sad sigh upon her lips, Olas did groan. ¡°That came out wrong Olivia. Apologies. You¡¯ve not been here as long as the others. I¡¯ve tried, the best thing to do is to not engage.¡±

    ¡°Its just¡­¡± Her ears splayed, ¡°It doesn¡¯t seem proper.¡±

    ¡°No¡­No it doesn¡¯t.¡±

    ** ** ** ** **

    With Olivia gone, Olas was left to his thoughts. Gentle, deliberate nibbles were taken, instead of indulging and tearing apart his meal like he were some feral gryphon of old. The food was delightful, tantalizing to the senses. The good girl amplified his breakfast¡¯s flavor with ample amounts of hot sauce. While eye watering to a human, gryphons found such a thing spine tingling, a delight to the senses it almost demanded that he fill the air with his pleased trills.

    It wasn¡¯t long before his water was drained, prompting the fair gryphon to get more. He rose from the table, sauntering to the ice box where a mana stone inside kept stored foods cold. Once his cup was filled, he slipped his beak through the carrying handle, bringing it back to the table. He passed below pictures of the constellations above, one shaped into the form of a gryphon, where the goddess Parunga was rumored to dwel.

    Images came to him of nights with Luna, pointing out delightful shapes and comets. His heart stretched to think her beak so open with delight as he held her attention in sway. Those days were gone of course, burned away as easily as the shooting star¡¯s they¡¯d enjoyed. A cold chirp escaped his beak as he settled his haunches to the floor. To the corner of his eye was a crystal ball, dormant, yet whispering for his grasp.

    For people with connections such as he, this device could be used to communicate with anyone across the realm who possessed another one. As the cold of his memory bit at his insides, his talon wavered, almost reaching out. Should he contact him? The gryphon¡¯s tail thumped across the floor, did he not have a long day ahead of him? Obligations and expectations that rested heavily upon his shoulders? He groaned at the thought of all the arduous paperwork, taxes, fines and other mind-numbing tasks that fell under his purview. Perhaps he did need a break. As the gryphon was about to reach out for it, his daughter Luna strolled into the kitchen.

    Rust like feathers like his own, the younger gryphon was a spitting image of what Isadora and himself were like molded together as if clay. Where Olas¡¯ hind end was dove like, his daughter¡¯s instead of that of her mother. Onyx feathers blossomed up her chest, all the way to her face, where red-orange eyes rested, smart, vigilant, snapping away as they noticed that their father was still here.

    ¡°Luna! You¡¯ve gotten up!¡± Olas¡¯ voice brightened as he rose to all fours. Whatever darkness that had him gripped was lost within his first step towards her. ¡°Did you sleep well my gryphet?¡±

    His daughter groaned as she¡¯d typically done, her father¡¯s good cheer running off her feathers as though it were water. She slunk to the icebox, ears pinning as the elder gryphon approached and nuzzled along her flank. ¡°Dad, were you not supposed to be gone?¡±

    ¡°Well, I had a troubling morning wouldn¡¯t you know.¡± He laughed nervously, both their ears pinning as her mother shattered yet another of his treasures, accompanied by a piercing screech.

    ¡°Done yelling for the day yet?¡±

    ¡°Depends on how long I remain stuck in this house darling.¡± He rolled a talon to his chest as Luna reared up, pulling out her breakfast from the icebox. ¡°Did you sleep well?¡±

    ¡°Is that a serious question?¡± She glared, her beak clamped tight on the handle of a plate adorned with several fresh fish. They were uncleaned, practically still moist, the perfect treat for a gryphon to start the morning.

    ¡°You¡¯re not even going to cook them?¡±

    ¡°I like them better raw.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure? I could just call Olivia back in he-¡° His ears splayed as Luna planted herself down, eyes narrowing as she lifted one of the fish to her beak and snapped it right in two. ¡°Well, enjoy your breakfast dear.¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re better for you this way. No sauces, no added fats and oils. Just as it was intended.¡±

    He chirped in delight, ¡°Oh, I know where you got that from! The book on the natural living of gryphon kind! The one that I got for your hatchday!¡± He leaned over with an open beak, eyes dazzling with excitement, ready to start a rousing conversation of her research.

    Her response was dull with a hint of annoyance as her feathers ruffled. ¡°Weren¡¯t you supposed to get to work?¡±

    Padding around her he nibbled at her ears till they tried to snap away. ¡°I always have time for my special little Starfire, see how she¡¯s doing. I¡¯ve not talked to you in quite some time, I needed to tell you that I love you.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve been busy.¡±

    ¡°Hanging out with those boys again? Steven was his name?¡±

    Ears pinned as she grabbed another of her fish, talons piercing the scales. Clearly, she didn¡¯t want to talk. Perhaps with a bit of coaxing, he could change that.

    A wing unfurled and wrapped around her, holding the gryphoness close. Beak close to her he rubbed his affectionally against hers. Even though she scowled at him, he only returned it with a smile. ¡°Do you remember when you¡¯d have nightmares? Where I¡¯d carry you off to show you the sky until slumber did take you back?¡±

    ¡°Maybe when I was four dad.¡± She scoffed, pushing away his wing. When he nibbled at her ear again, she clacked her beak, ¡°Dad quit it!¡±

    ¡°Mighty moody this morning, I suppose that answers you didn¡¯t sleep well.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not four anymore, I¡¯m eighteen! You can stop treating me like some little fledgling around the house.¡±

    ¡°Yes, but to me you¡¯ll always be the precious little girl that used to sing with me.¡± He replied, poking at her beak with a talon, ¡°Destined to take my place within this family.¡±

    ¡°Think you mean married off so that I can be bred and have an egg plop out of me.¡± She shoved him away, eyes filled with fire.

    His ears pinned, seeing the same expression he once had long ago. His feathers rubbed against hers as he nuzzled along her neck, his daughter unable to resist returning the gesture. ¡°Such is the way of our family.¡± He said softly, running a talon along the back of her neck. The words stung, but it was the best he could offer. ¡°This is your duty, as it was mine, and my father before me. The heirs for this family must continue, for the sake of the peace treaty between the Mistfeathers and the Steelbeaks.¡±

    Her eyes rolled; beak clacking in warning. ¡°I don¡¯t give a toss about stupid tradition, or the treaty. Doesn¡¯t seem to stop the families from snapping at each other¡¯s necks.¡±

    ¡°It keeps them in line enough. Look how it used to be.¡± He sighed, ¡°Gryphon talons used on one another, the lands littered with blood and corpses. Though we might fight and quarrel, the alternative is even less desirable. What¡¯s the matter with Arion Stalktalon? I thought you liked the boy. I could have sworn you two were sweet on one another.¡±

    Luna looked away; What strength she had wavered, followed by a defeated thump of her tail. ¡°That¡¯s what it looks like now, but what of decades from now? Going from sweet songs and delighted company to resembling that of bitter foes?¡± Judgement hung in her gaze as she snapped to him, ¡°Do you think I will take after you or will he?¡±

    Olas squirmed, words stumbling from his beak as he tried to respond to this remark. He found himself at a loss. Give him a troubling spell or scroll and he would find a solution in several of ways, he¡¯d have it done by the eve with a smile. This though? He could hardly link two words together to satisfy the betrayal plain as day upon his daughters¡¯ beak. ¡°Luna, you must understand. What your mother and I had was¡­See we were never in¡­I never meant to¡­I felt¡­¡± He groaned, ¡°See? I have not the words.¡±

    ¡°Then once you do, come find me. I¡¯ll be busy reading up on the stars, considering I¡¯ll be locked up in a cage.¡± Up went her beak as she pushed away his affections. As he went to her, her wings flared as she responded with a threatening squawk. ¡°Leave me alone Dad! Go tend to the others or something I don¡¯t care. Maybe your boyfriend will comfort you.¡±

    He let her go with a weakened chirp, unwilling to press the issue. Anything more and he feared truly driving a wedge between them. The gryphon lord slipped into the halls, accompanied by a weakened groan. Perhaps come the eve she would be cooled down enough to talk. Maybe then he¡¯d have the words to get through to her. Though with every step his thoughts darkened. This was a wonderful way to start a day.

    ** ** ** ** **

    Sunlight graced Olas¡¯ back as he drifted high above the earth, lost in the minor joy of flight. It was a brief reprieve from the weight of responsibility and regret that hung around his neck whenever he graced the ground. He could breathe deep the whispering air, let it caress his feathers like a lover¡¯s care. Up and around the current¡¯s he¡¯d glide, briefly diving and then rising with a resounding trill.

    Down below was diverse tapestry of colors, autumn fully staking it¡¯s claim upon the earth. Trees were bursting with oranges, reds and lavenders, each more eye catching than the last. These were broken apart by snake like rivers, gleaming in the morning light. Among all these were mountains that rose like dragon¡¯s teeth, their rocky slopes teasing at the very heavens themselves. Even now snow rested atop their summits, a thin layer of clouds always resting around the pointed tips.

    Staring out the expanse of fluffy clouds, caught sight the multitude of gryphons that had already sought out the sun like him. They fluttered away, singing their songs, darting to and fro like a school of fish. Feathers of all kinds flashed, resembling more like leaves caught in the breeze. Among them were the distant outlines of airships, each powerful machines bearing the mark of Lumara upon their sturdy hulls. A rampart gryphon, pristine and glinting gold.

    From all the natural beauty came that of industry and civilization, buildings growing like weeds themselves from the earth. Each a different town with their own peoples, each beholden to a different gryphon lord. All rested within the shadow of Whitedell, which loomed over them all from it¡¯s lofty perch within the mountains.

    Olas found one such town, a diminutive place called Featherton. Its people were simple and fair, trusting and always cheerful. It was here that he¡¯d constructed his magical tower, where he might lend his assistance to those that sought him out. It stood out from the rest of the town, constructed with fine, pristine stone with a flat roof large enough that he might land with little trouble. Here he¡¯d tend to the taxes, listen to grievances, make sure his land¡¯s knights and guards were well trained and able to be brought to arms, should the need arise.

    He tilted a wing and circled the town of Featherton, catching sight of the different levels carved into the mountainside. The bottom was packed with humanoids of all sorts, taverns, and shops more suited for their needs. Some gryphons rested here, trading stories for coin, or offering their wings for those without to travel to the other levels. Above that where places more suited for gryphons, where the perches were plentiful and the structures spread further apart. True there were stairs so that their humanoid guests might visit, but often it was too troublesome. Already the gryphon mage could see the scattered mass of humanoids and gryphons preparing for some sort of festival.

    Banners were being hung up across every layer of the town, each a different color to represent the multitude of gryphon flights that called these lands their home. They fluttered in the breeze as gryphons young and old sung merry tunes, some even gestured at sight of the flying gryphon lord. He smiled to this of course but groaned that the shadow of responsibility would not be held back any longer. Tilting his wings, Olas made his way to the tower.

    As he neared it, a line was obviously spreading from the base. Within were humanoids and gryphons of different sizes, each dressed in various forms of commoner attire. They chatted to one another, some laughing, others stood firm, clutching satchels with request that the lord might sign or approve. It pinned Olas¡¯ ears, that great cacophony of need, all pointing the moment his talons graced his roof.

    He groaned, pinning his wings, pressing down the joys of flight. Instead, he took a deep breath and readied himself, for the wants and needs of those around him. Hundreds of voices day in and out, all hanging off his every word. Instead of engaging in magical research that might revolutionize his lands, he was searching after lost kittens, fixing dresses, or telling the future. What had started as a kind gesture to the commoners, had soon turned into an obligation. One he was unwilling to go back on, their pleading faces stopping him from uttering the refusal each time.

    Inside was organized and structured. The walls adorned in treasured paintings and charts of the land, each warmed by the sunlight filtering through the stained-glass windows. He had various cushioned chairs for his guests, all opposite his throne like seat, complete with a hole for his tail. There he shifted, staring at the locked doors, talon risen. One gesture and they¡¯d be in, assailing him with their many demands. He sighed and conjured to life a pot of minaratok, minotaur coffee. Pouring himself a cup he breathed deep the earthy fumes before gesturing to the door and saying the words of power. With a final lift of his talon the door opened with a click. In they came.

    The day was like any other, long and filled with countless troubles. Businesses looking for suggestions, farmers looking to grow better crops, others requesting solutions to their squabbles. Often their trivial ordeals could be solved with hardly any fuss, unbefitting the powers that this gryphon lord did wield. Yawning he¡¯d solve whatever ailment they had and send them on their way, the people¡¯s thanks upon his ears. Others came to him for investment in businesses, ideas that might improve his own wealth but that of his many lands. They made promises of friendship, fame, prestige, always smiling with silver tongues. Olas would scowl at each one, knowing how this would go. The moment they¡¯d gotten what they¡¯d desired, they¡¯d want no more of him. It was seldom now that he saw any of them, most being hurled out by a sizable translucent hand. He was about to do the same to a crimson vest wearing halfling, who¡¯d just gotten finished talking about needing some land for his business.

    ¡°You don¡¯t like the circus?¡± The furry footed man asked, struggling, as a translucent, yellow hand held him aloft by his patch covered suit.

    ¡°What now?¡± Olas¡¯ ears perked, pulled from his dull haze by the word.

    ¡°The circus. That¡¯s what I was asking about.¡±

    Was it? The gryphon chirped as he rose from his seat, an interested bounce in his paws. He approached with skeptical eyes, ¡°When has there been a circus around these parts?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I was getting at. It¡¯s been years your lordship.¡± The halfling bowed his head, ¡°Now if you¡¯d kindly let down your handy, I¡¯ll tell you about it.¡±

    Intrigued, at least for the moment, Olas did as the diminutive man asked of him. With a flick of his tail the halfling was on his feet, dusting himself off with a thanks. ¡°Do speak, I believe you mentioned something about a circus?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I did.¡± Replied the halfling proudly, ¡°James Sparklebottom at your service, fine ringmaster of the greatest circus in all of Sethera.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t they all make this claim?¡±

    ¡°Yes, but we mean it. Once you see it, you¡¯ll have to agree!¡±

    Gears began to turn in the gryphon¡¯s head, a reprieve from the fog of monotony that he found himself within. It reminded him of younger days when he was but a small gryphet, hugging at his father¡¯s side. The lord huffed, fluffing his wings as a plan began to form.

    ¡°Take it you like the circus Lord Olas?¡± The halfling beamed, holding the opening of his suit, ¡°Everyone loves the circus, so no surprise.¡±

    ¡°Oh yes, delightfully so. I¡¯ve not been in a dragon¡¯s age.¡± He chirped, whimsically, ¡°How my darling Luna used to love such things, sitting by my side, she ever did love the clowns.¡± Perhaps he might be able to sooth the turmoil that now rested within her?

    ¡°It would appear that you would like for us to set up on the edge of town.¡± Grinned Sparklebottom. ¡°Perhaps relive such nostalgic memories?¡±

    ¡°I know what I can do!¡± He trotted to the other side of the room, ignoring how the halfling rose his brow to him.

    ¡°Do what your lordship?¡±

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter my dear Sparklebottom. You and your precious little halflings can set up their circus on the outskirts of Featherton.¡± He padded his way to his desk, stamping a seal of scattered stars onto a piece of parchment. ¡°Here, take this to the men. It will tell them you have my permission to proceed. Then you can work out the finer details with them.¡± He gestured to the door, rather pleased with himself, tail wiggling at the prospect of what to come. If he was going to have a day off, free of responsibility and stress, he knew just the man who he would request.

    ¡°I do wish you a good rest of your day mister Sparklebottom, but I must now inform my daughter.¡± He snatched one of his crystal balls, ¡°And get ahold of the only man who can fuck me.¡±

    The halfling stopped mid stride, ¡°What?¡±

    Olas¡¯ ears splayed; he¡¯d said that aloud? ¡°Of course, I meant protect me! For when I visit.¡±

    ¡°My lord, my circus is quite safe enough. Never have we had any trouble before.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure that¡¯s what you tell every lord that has you set up on his lands. However, I am under no illusions of those that would wish me ill. You run along and set up your little circus, I¡¯ll gather up my daughter and whatever protection I feel adequate for myself.¡±

    ¡°Whatever fancies your feathers my lordship.¡± Sparklebottom laughed nervously, before wheeling around and finding his way out.

    Talons tracing over his crystal ball, Olas chirped in delight. This was going to be delightfully fun. He let his thoughts drift to a man of no equal, one who stroked a passion unmeasured, the half-elf Leon Silverblade.

    <u>Chapter 2</u>

    The serpent¡¯s pass was a winding path that traversed the voiceless mountains. It was an arduous journey for travelers, merchants, and any who could not afford passage on an airship, or the wonderful wings of gryphons to carry them. The forest hugged this rugged, root filled path with the jealousy of a dragon, eager to catch legs, trousers or the wheels of carts. Bushes of berries grew along side it, intermixed with thick underbrush bursting with thorns. The air would be filled with the gentle sound of the river below all the way through the Voiceless mountains until you found Whitedell.

    Along this path trundled along a weathered wagon, showing signs of its age. It was pulled by a bay stallion by the name of Draigo, its tail swishing gently in the mountain breeze. The wagon was filed to the brim with barrels and crates, each full of flour, spices, and spell reagents on order from Whitedell. Along this cargo sat a male half-elf with a thin, brown beard, currently stroking his chin.

    Leon Silverblade was his name, a mercenary of some renown throughout the realm. He held the reins of his horse with the firm hand of a commander, his icy blue, almond shaped eyes watching the path ahead and the sky right above it. He was built like an athlete, the callouses upon his hands telling a life of hard work. The sun that shone through the canopy above reflected off the silver sections of his armor, a blackened breastplate of interwoven parts that shifted to reds and whites on either side of the torso. His dirty blonde hair ruffled in the wind, his braids flicking against his metal pauldrons of blackened metal outlined in red.

    At his side was a gryphon, laying upon his belly, preening away at his onyx-colored feathers. In the light the half-elf could see the varying shades that adorned this beast from the blacker feathers of his chest to the charcoal like appearance of his haunches. Blue was painted across the tips of his feathers, even below his eyes and on the tip of his tail fluff. He was chirping to himself as his lead grey beak travelled through his chest feathers, his black, scaly forepaws tapping against the wagon¡¯s floor.

    ¡°Krantor, any sign of them?¡± Asked Leon without looking back to make sure his companion was watching the road.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

    The gryphon¡¯s blue tipped ears flicked upwards, the gryphon¡¯s pale blue eyes shifting to the sky. ¡°Nothing yet.¡±

    ¡°You weren¡¯t looking?¡±

    ¡°You can see as much as I can. Don¡¯t know why you even bothered asking me.¡±

    ¡°Two sets of eyes is always better-¡°

    ¡°Besides, with our ears, we¡¯ll hear them.¡± Krantor fluffed his feathers as he rolled lazily against their cargo, there he gently batted a hand against the wood, ¡°Think they¡¯ll take the bait? Maybe they don¡¯t like our haunches.¡±

    ¡°Oh, they¡¯ll take the bait.¡± Growled the mercenary, ¡°They¡¯ve been attacking every unguarded caravan over the course of the month. So stay ready, they¡¯ll show their beaks.¡±

    The black gryphon sighed, flopping to his back. ¡°Still got your energy crossbow at the ready?¡±

    ¡°Do I look like an idiot?¡±

    Krantor perked up with a sly grin, ¡°Do you want me to answer that sir?¡±

    He scowled at the gryphon and kicked the hidden weapon at his feet, a specialty of Lumara, a crossbow that fired powerful magical bolts of energy. It was adorned with runes, waiting for activation at just a touch, metal vents rested on either side of it to let loose what heat would build when fired. Typically, they were reserved for the military, but of course he had connections to get around that restriction. ¡°Best wipe that look from your beak, else you¡¯ll be getting stunned when it coughs.¡±

    ¡°Why is it you get all the toys in this arrangement?¡± Groaned the gryphon, his ears splaying. ¡°When is it going to be my turn to get a fire conjuring bracelet, a lightning shield amulet, anything.¡± He flung up his hinds in exasperation, ¡°It¡¯s not fair.¡±

    ¡°When a thirsty, wealthy gryphon uses you to satisfy his perverted gryphon needs.¡± Growled Leon as his cheeks started to flush.

    ¡°Next time you¡¯re taking one for the team, might I suggest asking Olas for gifts for Hekate and I? Just to be fair is all.¡±

    The half-elf rolled his eyes, trying to get the gryphon off the subject and back to the matter at hand. On that matter, why were the ones they were after not taking the bait? He swiveled around and peered back to the path they¡¯d traveled, eyes scanning through the emerald green canopies. No movement out of the ordinary, not a sound that his elven ears picked up, what was the matter? ¡°Is your mate keeping her distance? These gryphons don¡¯t attack caravans with any females within them.¡±

    ¡°You think females frighten them?¡± Cackled the gryphon, tossing back his head, ¡°Now that¡¯s rich.¡± He joined Leon in his searching, his tail thumping the floor in amusement, ¡°See? Not a sign or speck of my lovely Hekate¡¯s lavender feathers. You can unclench your butt sir.¡±

    ¡°If she¡¯s following too closely, they might catch her scent. If they do, this entire plan will have been for nothing.¡±

    ¡°Then you¡¯re in luck that Hekate sir is so good at being stealthy when she needs to be. Why just the other day she hunted me, startled me so bad that I spilled my morning coffee.¡±

    ¡°I know.¡± Hissed Leon, ¡°I was the one you spilled it on.¡±

    ¡°Right.¡± Laughed Krantor, ¡°I thought you were going to kill me.¡±

    ¡°The day is not yet done.¡± He grumbled, ¡°Tell me, do you smell her?¡±

    ¡°On quite the normal basis sir. I would describe it as alluring and most welcoming, why, what do you smell when you¡¯re sniffing her? I know that you two have been-¡°

    ¡°Not that kind of sniffing you lewd beast. I meant if you could smell her now.¡±

    His ears splayed, as he gave a nervous laugh, ¡°Of course you did, one moment.¡± Krantor rose his head, eyes closing as he took in three, deep breaths. Each one was accompanied with a tiny trill and ending with a shivering of his fur.

    ¡°Well?¡±

    ¡°Do you want me to describe all the scents?¡±

    ¡°Just if you smell Hekate.¡± Leon squeezed the bridge of his nose.

    ¡°Then that would be a negative sir. See?¡± His beak parted into a smile as he warbled, ¡°She is good at hiding.¡± The gryphon turned and waved a wing back to the path, softly saying, ¡°Hi sweety.¡±

    ¡°Stop that! You¡¯ll give her away!¡± Leon yanked down the gryphon¡¯s wing, getting a nibble of his hair. He froze as the gryphon snatched at one of his braids. There was an uneasy calm as he stared into those pools of pale blue mischief, ¡°Don¡¯t you dare.¡±

    ¡°Do what?¡± Mumbled Krantor, his crown feathers raising one after the other.

    ¡°You very well know what.¡±

    ¡°Can you ask more polite?¡±

    He glared daggers as the gryphon fluttered his eyes, giving him the most innocent look. ¡°Krantor, can you please not yank my hair.¡±

    ¡°And?¡± Krantor rotated a talon.

    ¡°And I think you¡¯re one of the sexiest and prettiest gryphons to walk this world, save your wife.¡±

    ¡°How wonderful of you to say sir!¡± Trilled the gryphon, releasing the half-elf¡¯s hair and nuzzling along his cheek, only to be pushed away, ¡°Olas is going to be so jealous!¡±

    ¡°Go ahead, I¡¯m curious to see what a jealous magician will do to you.¡±

    ¡°On second thought¡­I don¡¯t think I will tell him.¡±

    ¡°Good gryphon.¡± Leon growled, returning to his watch of the road beyond Draigo¡¯s body. ¡°What are we missing?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps I should announce how weak and vulnerable we are?¡± Krantor rolled a talon to his black and blue chest, ¡°Especially how robbable we appear to be, wiggle my haunches around, make a show of it.¡±

    ¡°The bounty didn¡¯t say they were that thick.¡±

    ¡°Alright, the normal amount of thick then.¡± The gryphon began to scratch his head, tilting back so that his hinds could reach, ¡°So remind me again what their method of robbery was?¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­we already went over this.¡± He snapped back as the gryphon worked.

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t paying attention.¡±

    Blood grew hot, ¡°What were you doing?¡±

    ¡°Stuff.¡±

    Oh, he already knew what that was, especially with how he flicked his tail. ¡°You were watching your mate again, weren¡¯t you?¡±

    The gryphon chuckled, ¡°You¡¯ve seen her sir, I don¡¯t need to tell you how distracting she can be to either gryphon of half-elf. It¡¯s your fault really.¡±

    ¡°How are we supposed to get stuff done if you¡¯re not going to pay attention?¡±

    ¡°By telling me right now.¡±

    Wanting to pull out his hair, Leon averted his gaze and began going through the plan once more, ¡°And this time pay attention.¡±

    ¡°That I can do.¡± Krantor sat up straight, pinning his wings to his back.

    ¡°This group likes to only go after males for some reason. Like to give their victims a show of their mating dances, enchanted with some form of magic I imagine. Once their victims are subdued, the gryphons in questions take what they want from the caravans. Sometimes they demand or request favors from the people as well.¡±

    ¡°So, bandits that steal from you and promise you a good time? I don¡¯t see much a problem with mounting and blowjobs Leon.¡±

    ¡°Not everyone is thrilled with the prospect of sudden sex as the followers of Parunga might.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just saying¡­they could be killing these people.¡± Krantor tilted his head, ¡°Do they at least get the people to finish?¡±

    ¡°Not the point Krantor.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just trying to gage if they¡¯re total monsters.¡±

    ¡°Look, not everyone likes the predatory advances of male gryphons.¡±

    ¡°Just you?¡± Chirped Krantor with a mischievous grin.

    Leon¡¯s brow tightened, ¡°Listen, just because Olas and I-¡°

    Their attentions were suddenly drawn to the sound of a flurry of wings right above. Down came four gryphons, brown, white, almond and black. Each was adorned in rugged leathers with an assortment of pouches and gear. They looked more like adventurers than the cruel image painted of a group of bandits. A serious of friendly trills traveled across their beaks as the almond-colored leader pinned his wings and strode forth.

    The leader¡¯s chest swelled with confidence as he padded over, giving the pair a disarming smile, betraying the predatory look that glimmered in his amber eyes. ¡°Greetings travelers. Nice day to stretch the wings wouldn¡¯t you say?¡±

    These were most definitely the bandits, the descriptions that Leon had been given matched these catbirds perfectly; down to the last detail, the way they acted, the charming act of the leader. Leon played up his naivety, let Hekate, if she were out there, get closer so that their trap could be sprung. What might look vulnerable, actually had teeth.

    ¡°Lovely day that it is fair gryphons.¡± Leon laughed, running a hand across Krantor¡¯s neck, scratching at his feathers, ¡°Just taking our goods to Whitedell. Figure you boys are out watching the roads? Always good to see.¡±

    ¡°What is your name little human?¡± The leader approached with a sway of his haunches, he¡¯d done this plenty of times, ¡°Even with our watchful eyes, it¡¯s dangerous to go alone with your lover.¡±

    Krantor pulled back his head with a squawk, ¡°Heavens no. Sure, we¡¯ve shared an intimate encounter or-¡°

    ¡°Excellent.¡± The gryphon rumbled with salacious intent, now but an arm¡¯s length away. ¡°You can call me Bright-tail, and these are my merry gryphs.¡±

    Leon introduced himself with a fake smile, waving to the now paw shifting gryphons. He could see by their tense expressions; they were waiting for whatever plan their leader had in store.

    ¡°We keep a wonderful eye on this path, keep it safe from monsters.¡±

    There was a sweetness on the air, the sound of his voice most pleasing. Leon¡¯s skin flushed, his heart starting to beat ever faster. There was magic about, that much was certain, it was all he could do to not scowl and pull away when Bright-tail extended a wing and ran it on the underside of his jaw.

    ¡°So, cute little thing like yourself doesn¡¯t find himself eaten, bound or taken advantage of.¡±

    ¡°How considerate of you.¡± He smiled, ¡°I take it you lads do this out of the sweetness of your hearts?¡±

    Bright-tail shook his head with an amused chuckle, ¡°Heavens no Leon, we do so for a fee. Minor one of course, but it pays for the equipment and the time we spent.¡± He gestured to both of them, ¡°I¡¯m sure you two handsome lads won¡¯t mind offering a small donation to us?¡±

    At his feat he brushed the crossbow as Krantor chirped in amusement.

    ¡°Or you could satisfy myself and the boys other needs.¡± The gryphon maneuvered so that Leon could get a good long look at his furred underbelly, where the sheath between his legs was already swollen. There was no mistake what other needs this gryphon spoke of. ¡°So what do you say lads? Offer a bit of coin or tend to us? Small price to pay for your safety, no?¡±

    ¡°Sorry, not my type.¡± Leon replied, flipping the crossbow from the floor to his hands and hitting the rune of activation. It hummed upon the air a deadly promise, ¡°Get mounted.¡±

    ¡°Always the hard-to-get types.¡± Bright-tail sighed whimsically, ¡°Well Leon. I can tell you; I can¡¯t wait to hear the change of your attitude. It¡¯s going to be so sweet when I have you mounted, singing my name as I paint your insides a new shade of white.¡± His wings flared wide as he leaped back, avoiding the first crack shot of Leon¡¯s crossbow. The gryphon landed with his associates, who in turn had gone and spread their wings wide.

    As one the group of gryphons wiggled their haunches in a captivating display, extending their wings and using them as a dancer might their arms. It was teasing to the eye, dulled the senses, whispering promises of seductive pleasure. It was of course a gryphon¡¯s mating display, complete with a cacophony of squawks and trills, each laced with a sinister magic.

    He couldn¡¯t look away, couldn¡¯t raise his weapon. Leon¡¯s skin flushed with desire as his eyes traveled from one gryphon¡¯s sheath and balls to the other. His mind was bombarded with salacious images, of he and Krantor playing hen to these rowdy group of catbirds. He could feel the desire being instilled in the back of his mind, the need to fling himself to all fours and beg to be taken. He started to stand as the gryphon¡¯s dance grew closer but managed to shake himself loose from their enchantment.

    He''d never been as thankful for his elven blood than this moment, it made him resistant to such effects. Unfortunately for his gryphon companion, he did not share in this advantage. Krantor had strolled from the wagon and planted himself on the ground, haunches raised up and his tailhole exposed and offering a most alluring invitation. The other black gryphon had already slipped on over, licking his beak as he groped his companion¡¯s haunches.

    ¡°Oi! Hands off the bird!¡± Leon shouted, gathering his senses to snap twin shots of crackling blue energy towards Krantor¡¯s would be rapist. The gryphon¡¯s squawk of surprise resounded through the group as he was sent to the ground, his dripping shaft going unattended.

    ¡°Hey, he¡¯s supposed to be charmed!¡± The white gryphon ruffled his feathers.

    ¡°Seen the dance too many times to count. It will take more than that to have me moaning for you jerks!¡± Leon leaped from the wagon to take cover, snapping off another volley that missed the gryphons as they scattered.

    ¡°Goodie, I like it when they squirm, better that way!¡± Bright-tail leaped over the wagon with a keening cry, his talons outstretched.

    He yelped and rolled out of the way, nary avoiding the gryphon¡¯s sharpened claws. He was forced back as the predatory bird followed, not willing to give him an opening to release another set of shots. Even with his armor, he shuttered to think what sharpened talons could do to him. Where was Hekate? Her absence could not help but be cursed at as he was chased around the cart. ¡°Come on Krantor, snap out of it!¡±

    Krantor¡¯s beak was open and drooling, his eyes in another state of being. He wagged his hind end back and forth as the other gryphons snapped their beaks on who would be the first to mount and breed their new hen.

    ¡°Gods damn it.¡± Leon growled as he managed a moment to fire the crossbow point blank into Bright-tail¡¯s face. What should have crackled and stunned the charging gryphon did little more than hit a blue, rippling surface right before his feathers.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, your toy won¡¯t work.¡± Bright-tail swatted the crossbow from Leon¡¯s hands, the weapon clattering to the ground. ¡°You got to tussle now, but don¡¯t feel bad handsome, I¡¯ll be gentle when I mount you.¡±

    Oh that wasn¡¯t going to happen, not with the chirps and hollering the other gryphons were giving. He retreated; the hungry gryphon followed as if this was some grand game. One slice, a second, it was more like grasping. Leon pulled out what appeared to be a simple blackened stick adorned in runes. At a press of a button a length of the tip started to crackle and sputter with sparks, widening his attacker¡¯s eyes and giving pause. ¡°Oh no, he¡¯s got a different toy.¡± Leon smirked, ¡°What sound do you think you¡¯ll make with this on your balls?¡±

    ¡°Think a bit of electricity will-¡° The gryphon was sent flying back by a mere touch, crashing to the ground with a pained squawk. Silence soon came as the other gryphons snapped their heads to what had transpired.

    ¡°Oh no, the human has some fight in him.¡± The brown gryphon remarked, clicking his tongue as he took this moment to maneuver himself to mount Krantor. ¡°Need help boss?¡±

    ¡°Not yet.¡± Wheezed Bright-tail as he rolled to all fours, a thin line of blood dribbling down his beak. The gryphon wiped it, glaring daggers at the mercenary before him, ¡°I¡¯m going to make you pay for that love.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not finished big boy.¡± Replied Leon, giving the weapon a flourish, raining sparks upon the ground, ¡°Can you handle my big shaft?¡±

    ¡°I was going to ask you the same thing!¡±

    With a shout and blood pumping, he resumed their deadly game. Leon kept the gryphon at bay with his precise jabs, seeing the fear in the catbird¡¯s gaze. Each one however the gryphon was learning, adapting to the mercenary¡¯s movements. He grit his teeth as he chased the squawking creature around the wagon, all to the cheering encouragement of Bright-wing¡¯s cohorts.

    ¡°You got him boss!¡± Shouted the white gryphon.

    ¡°Smack him down.¡± Chirped the brown gryphon.

    ¡°Working on it.¡± Bright-tail replied with a narrowed gaze, slipping under Leon¡¯s attack and landing a solid blow.

    Pain lanced through him as Leon crashed to the ground, forced to roll to avoid the full weight of a gryphon landing on him. He was forced on the defensive as his attacker followed, proceeding to peck with his sharpened beak, an amused trill escaping him.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter human, not so confident now?¡±

    ¡°Just biding my time is all.¡±

    ¡°Just give in, I¡¯m sure we¡¯ll have a lot of fun. Everyone loves gryphons.¡±

    ¡°Sorry pal, but I have to repeat myself, you¡¯re not my type.¡± With a shout he found his opening, jabbing upwards into the gryphon¡¯s chest feathers. Lightning sparked and crackled across Bright-tail¡¯s form, putting him into the dirt with a defeated groan. ¡°See? There we go-¡° Leon stood, whirling around to brandish his weapon at the other gryphons. Instead of the fearful beasts that might surrender, the honor less dogs had instead taken another strategy.

    ¡°Enough fun Leon.¡± The white gryphon squawked; gaze narrowed on the man. One talon was around Krantor¡¯s throat, ready to tear it out. ¡°Weapon down, surrender before your friend here has another hole.¡±

    ¡°Here I thought you had some decency.¡±

    ¡°We take handsome guys like ya and make them our hens.¡± The gryphon laughed, ¡°Now get down and put your butt up and pray to the gods that you got lucky with us.¡±

    No way he was doing that. Leon was still, the sound of his blood sounded in his ear. ¡°Come on Krantor, wake up ya blasted bird.¡±

    His black and blue gryphon was still charmed out his mind, tongue hanging out while the other gryphons handled him.

    ¡°Tick tock half-elf.¡± White gryphon clacked his beak, tightening his grip, ¡°Ass up, weapons down.¡±

    Where was Hekate? Leon took one last look around, desperation growing as he searched about the multicolored canopy. There was no sight of her, not a purple feather, nor her vanilla fur. The mercenary was forced to groan into the smug expression of these gryphons before him, thinking they¡¯d won. ¡°You win for now.¡± He grunted, dropping his weapon, getting a chorus of approving chirps.

    Bright-tail shook his head and strolled to Leon¡¯s side with a predatory lick of his beak, eyeing the prize that he¡¯d one. ¡°This one¡¯s mine boys, had me work up quite the appetite. Kneel boy.¡±

    Flushed cheeks, Leon did as was requested of him. He tried one last time to wake Krantor, but the gryphon merely waved the brown gryphon onward to mount him.

    ¡°He¡¯s not listening love.¡± Bright-tail said with a cruel glint in his gaze, extending a talon to grip the half-elf¡¯s chin, ¡°Here¡¯s how it¡¯s going to go Leon, you¡¯re going to worship myself and my merry gryphons. Then we¡¯re going to take turns, getting you and black beauty there to sing our names.¡± His tail flicked as the air grew with his spicy musk, signaling the gryphon emerging from his sheath, ¡°And I¡¯m going to enjoy feeling you clench around my knot.¡±

    ¡°That all?¡± He scowled into the eyes of his conqueror, getting one last jab, ¡°I¡¯ll take heart that you had to resort to cheap tricks to-grah!¡± His face was shoved into the dirt as Bright-tail maneuvered over him, the half-elf¡¯s world consisting only of the chirps of the gryphons about to take his friend, and the dripping threat right before his nose.

    ¡°And if I feel teeth Leon¡­You¡¯re in for a world of hurt.¡±

    He gulped, watching a thin bead of translucent pre slither down the swelling head. It was red, covered in soft spines, contained within a furry, almond furred sheath. There it stared, hungry, demanding Leon¡¯s attention. It drew closer as its owner chuckled and shifted, filling every breath with the smell of the gryphon¡¯s arousal. Leon¡¯s cheeks burned, hating to admit he rather liked the smell, it reminded him of another gryphon.

    ¡°Open wide Leon. Show me how much you love my cock.¡±

    Was this how it was supposed to go? Held down and forced to suck gryphon cock, swallowing down whatever this jerk had? He groaned, wishing he had the lack of morals to let Krantor perish. The throbbing spire was now inches from his lips, spurting a fresh river to ease its entry.

    ¡°There we go¡­You understand-Ack!¡±

    The path exploded in brilliant yellow light, forcing any who beheld it to clench their eyes shut. Bright-tail was sent sprawling backwards, tumbling to the dirt with a pained squawk. There he flopped, as a keening cry boiling with rage resounded all around them.

    ¡°Get off my mate prick! Only I¡¯m allowed to hump his butt!¡± Shouted a purple feathered gryphon, her talons aglow with magic of pure, crackling yellow energy. Thick wrappings of orange cloth covered her ankles, hinds and chest, brass sections winking in the light. The red sun of Fureen was emblazoned on her vanilla colored haunches, signaling her devotion. With a resounding squawk she swooped over their heads, raining bolt after bolt of energy, forcing the gryphons to scatter for cover, lest they share the same fate as their boss. Those that did connect were carried with the strength of a minotaur¡¯s punch, sending the black and white gryphons tumbling to the dirt.

    Leon bounced back to his feet, thanking the gods for that timely delivery. He grabbed the electric shaft and brandished it firmly, not wasting a moment as he leaped towards the still dazed Bright-tail. With a swat his weapon connected with the malevolent beast, slamming him into the dirt, knocking him unconscious. ¡°Could you have cut it any closer Hekate?¡± He shouted, wheeling about to face his next target.

    She landed by his side with the upmost grace, resting on her two hind paws. There she cackled with glee, raining down bolt after bolt onto the gryphons doing their best to avoid her. ¡°Sorry about that Leon, was busy with a really beautiful butterfly.¡±

    ¡°Butterfly?¡± He groaned, ¡°You were supposed to be watching over us!¡±

    ¡°And for that I¡¯m sorry, but on the plus side, I got a really good picture drawn, I¡¯m getting better at it.¡±

    He surged forward to the dancing gryphons, trying to prevent them from regrouping and pressing the attack once more. He avoided the incoming slash of talons, sending the feathery foe tumbling to the dirt with a thrust, ¡°How many times do we have to tell you?¡±

    ¡°That I need to get better?¡±

    ¡°Take an art class Hekate! Not in the middle of a mission!¡±

    ¡°Have you seen the prices of them?¡± She squawked, as the brown and black gryphons raced right after him, figuring it was better to put the caster down first. ¡°Not when we¡¯re saving for a tavern!¡±

    That blasted tavern, the one she¡¯d always been talking about, the one to be after her adventuring days were done. Leon squared off against the white gryphon, his muscles tensed, ¡°Thanks to your artistic vision, I almost had to suck that gryphon¡¯s prick!¡±

    She bumped into him as she avoided the heavy swings of her opponent, ¡°So, like your monthly visits?¡±

    He blushed, batting away the white gryphon¡¯s swift attacks, this time his counter jab was avoided, the gryphon snagging his arm with a beak. Any trouble that might have come from this development was quickly dashed as a familiar onyx feathered gryphon pounced and landed upon the white gryphon¡¯s back.

    ¡°Everyone miss me?¡± Krantor squawked, his voice one of pride.

    ¡°Finally! You¡¯re not ass up, reading to swallow the first cock presented to you!¡±

    Krantor¡¯s ears splayed as he wrestled the white gryphon to the ground, grabbing hold of his head and slamming him unconscious.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry dear.¡± Hekate gave her husband a wink as she leaped up, guiding her opponent underneath of her before landing behind him, ¡°I think your butt is most darling. Leon is just jealous he doesn¡¯t have an ass.¡±

    ¡°I have an ass!¡± Leon growled, putting down the brown gryphon with a swat of his shaft.

    ¡°I¡¯d have to agree with Leon dear.¡± Krantor was at Leon¡¯s side with a playful wink, ¡°Else, why would Olas like-¡°

    ¡°Not in front of the bandits!¡±

    ¡°You mean bandit?¡±

    There was only one of them left before them, the black gryphon stepping back, warry eyes travelling over each of them. Fear trembled beneath, things were not going how they¡¯d imagined.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter boy?¡± Hekate chirped, her crown feathers raising, ¡°Gryphon got your tongue? Or has all the fight gone fluttering away like a star bird?¡±

    Leon advanced at her side with a confident smirk, ¡°Answer the lady gryphon. What happened to the promise that I was to be mounted and bred?¡±

    ¡°I think he¡¯s worried about what we¡¯ll be doing to them.¡± Krantor chuckled, making sure to drag his talons menacingly through the dirt, ¡°And I do ever want to pay you back.¡±

    ¡°Oh, fuck this.¡± The black gryphon declared as he flared his wings, powerful hinds bringing him upwards towards the safety of the sky.

    ¡°Oh no you don¡¯t fucker!¡± Hekate reared up, her talon cupped and twitching, with a lash of her tail she squawked the draconic word of power required. Her eyes swelled up with an angry crimson light as the gryphon trying to flee froze midair.

    ¡°That¡¯s my girl!¡± Cheered Krantor as the black gryphon collapsed to the ground, unable to move a muscle. Krantor chirped and hummed to himself as he bounced over to the bandit and swiftly knocked him out with a kick from his hinds.

    ¡°Guess they don¡¯t like it rough.¡±

    Like that, the worry was over, the bandits were caught. Leon breathed a sigh of relief as his two gryphons chirped and hugged with their wings.

    ¡°You were so wonderful dear.¡± Trilled Krantor, nuzzling his mate¡¯s furry lavender cheek.

    Hekate reciprocated, eyes closed as she rubbed her flank up along side his, ¡°You should have seen the butterfly love, it was ever so pretty. Orange and red, the colors of Fuereen!¡±

    ¡°Oooo, that does sound pretty. Though not nearly as sexy and pretty as you look right now.¡±

    Rolling his eyes, Leon rummaged through his cart, procuring four sets of rope thick enough for even gryphons. It would take some effort, but they¡¯d hold this lot, no matter the amount of squirming they did. ¡°Alright you love birds, lets get this lot bound and packaged up. We don¡¯t need them waking up and flying the coup.¡± He had to stride over and swat the lovebird on the haunches to break up their passionate, beak clacking kissing they were doing. ¡°And can you make out after we¡¯re done?¡±

    They parted with a series of amused trills and chuckles, ¡°Aww, Leon can¡¯t take a break?¡± Hekate whined, brushing a talon across her lover¡¯s smitten beak, ¡°After such a victory.¡±

    ¡°I think you just like the idea of this idiot¡¯s butt wiggling in the air.¡±

    ¡°Is that what happened?¡± Krantor¡¯s ears pinned in alarm, ¡°Oh gods, did any of them mount me?¡±

    ¡°They were going to, but I stopped them good.¡± Hekate smiled, bumping her flank alongside his, ¡°No one humps you good but me. That right?¡±

    He grumbled and ignored the gryphon¡¯s playful teasing, ¡°Just help me with the bindings, you two can fuck later.¡±

    ¡°Well you heard him, get to work hun.¡± She swatted Krantor on the butt with a wing as he brought over some rope to work on the other gryphons.

    In short order they had all the gryphons hogtied and wings bound, ensuring none of them could break free. Hekate had gone about summoning a translucent magical claw from her spells, plucking the gryphons one by one and moving them to the cart with upmost ease. Several times she nearly dropped them as Krantor flirted with her, causing Leon to step in each time.

    On the final gryphon, Leon was tightening the final knot of the rope, chuckling at the peaceful look of Bright-tail. ¡°Guess things didn¡¯t work out you jerk.¡± He chortled, tugging the rope firm.

    Krantor sighed, giving the half-elf an honest, beak parted smile.

    ¡°Care to illuminate why your face is like that? I told you, I¡¯m not joining in the love fest that is your mating.¡± He focused on his work as the gryphon chirped in protest.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t seem to mind last time.¡±

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t mean I want to every time.¡± He growled, making sure to check the unconscious gryphon¡¯s hind bindings.

    ¡°I was trying to thank you for saving my butt¡­literally this time.¡± The gryphon flicked his tail for evidence.

    ¡°How many times do I have to tell you? We¡¯ve worked together for years now, you don¡¯t got to thank me every time I save your haunches. It comes with the territory.¡±

    ¡°Momma always said to thank the guy that stops your behind from being rut like a beast. Bad luck if you don¡¯t.¡±

    He groaned, the gryphon meant well, but he knew where this was heading, Krantor was not doing this for himself, ¡°You¡¯re not going to drop this till I thank Hekate for saving us are you?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps.¡± Krantor waggled a wing, ¡°I¡¯m just trying to keep you from having bad luck. Like that time with the rock elementals in the voiceless mountains, or the trolls that were terrorizing Histria with their riddles, or the witches that wanted to sacrifice our souls to hades? Crazy I know, but still.¡±

    The air was filled with countless occasions as Krantor continued his listing of every adventure they¡¯d every shared together. ¡°Alright you whiny bitch, I¡¯ll thank her.¡± He padded Bright-tail¡¯s hind and snapped to Hetake who was waiting for the signal. ¡°Hetake! Thanks for keeping me from having to swallow gryphon cock! I really appreciate it!¡±

    ¡°No problem!¡± Chirped the female in reply with a hearty laugh, ¡°But you don¡¯t have to thank me Leon, we¡¯re a team!¡±

    With a smug smile he turned to Krantor, the gryphon¡¯s ears pinned and gaze narrowed, ¡°What did I say?¡±

    ¡°I just know you¡¯d rather have saved attentions for someone else.¡± The black gryphon snapped his head away with a lash of his tail, ¡°Speaking of which¡­¡± His ears clicked up, a hint of mischief flickering in his pale blues, ¡°Are you going to see him? I¡¯m sure we can take a detour to go see him-¡°

    Cheeks blushed as he finished working on securing the gryphon. He gave the signal to Hekate, allowing her to summon her claw and carry the unconscious beast to the wagon.

    ¡°So, are you?¡±

    ¡°Krantor, I already saw him the other day, what part of that do you not understand? What Olas and I have is a contractual thing. He gives us jobs and supplies, great leads, and once a month I go to his blue blooded estate-¡°

    ¡°And share a passionate night of fornication.¡± Krantor teased, doing his best impression of the horny noble gryphon, ¡°Where you fuck that gryphon¡¯s brains right out¡­and he gives it right back.¡±

    ¡°What we talking about?¡± Hekate called over, ¡°Anything good?¡±

    ¡°Just about Leon¡¯s boyfriend!¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s not my boyfriend!¡± Protested Leon as they marched over to the wagon, avoiding the teasing stares of his companions, ¡°And we¡¯re going to stay that way.¡±

    ¡°So, that¡¯s going to be a yes?¡±

    He rolled his eyes, there was no reaching them when they got like this. They were terrible, best way to let it end was to ignore it, hope they got their fill. Sure enough, once the gryphons were loaded up, and Draigo fed, the wagon was ready to return to Fetherton, where a happy reward awaited them.

    ¡°Better luck next time eh?¡± He swatted Bright-tail¡¯s behind, ¡°Your sorry asses are going to treating us. Hope wherever you end up they go easy on you.¡±

    ¡°Can I Leon?¡± Hekate had slipped around the wagon, an orange and brass paddle held securely within her pale yellow beak. The flat surface was emblazoned with the red sun of Fuereen.

    Chortling, the mercenary did give the captured gryphons a gesture, ¡°Just for the moment, to satisfy whatever kink this is.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not a kink!¡± She gave an indignant squawk, nearly dropping her paddle, ¡°This is what happens when we catch ruffians! They are rightfully paddled for their crimes!

    ¡°Sure. Whatever you need to tell yourself. Just don¡¯t take too long, I¡¯d like to get back to town before dark.¡±

    He sauntered over to the other side of the wagon, digging through his pouches and procuring his pipe. With a satisfied sigh he leaned against the wood, enjoying the spoils of another successful mission. Up to the fluffy clouds he stared, knowing that his companions could easily fly away on their wings, leaving him to drag back the gryphons himself. It warmed his heart that he knew they wouldn¡¯t choosing instead to walk the entire way back with him. With a matchstick he brought life to his pipe, taking a long, satisfied drag to enjoy the flavor.

    Smacks of a wooden board upon gryphon haunches soon filled the air, followed by the whimpering squawk of their owners waking to the punishment.

    ¡°Can¡¯t believe you went and married this one.¡± Scoffed Leon as Krantor sat upon his haunches, taking Leon¡¯s pipe when it was offered, the gryphon took a deep breath, savoring the flavor before exhaling a large plume of smoke.

    ¡°She is quite the charmer you know.¡± The gryphon smirked, passing back the pipe as his eyes traveled to the gryphoness he held dear, now going to town on Bright-tail¡¯s exposed rump. With every thump, Krantor¡¯s eyes trembled with envy, his hinds shifting.

    Leon laughed, spying the hunger dwelling right below the gryphon¡¯s face, ¡°She uses that on you, doesn¡¯t she?¡±

    ¡°What? Me?¡± He snapped his head away, ears pinned, ¡°Never.¡±

    ¡°Then explain how you¡¯ve gone about exposed from your sheath?¡± He gestured to the gryphon¡¯s lower regions, where a dot of pink was found in the sea of black fur.

    ¡°Figure you¡¯d go looking.¡± Huffed Krantor, rising to all fours as the half-elf continued to laugh, ¡°Now if you excuse me¡­I¡¯ll see if she needs any help.¡±

    <u>Chapter 3</u>

    The trip back to Featherton took the rest of the day, serenaded by the gentle sounds of the Voiceless Mountain¡¯s Forest all around them. Krantor filled this time with his songs for his beloved, eyes fluttering as he enchanted her with gryphon melodies of various chirps, trills and warbles that only held meaning in his people¡¯s tongue. Leon had rolled his eyes as they lost themselves in one another, soon kissing with open beaks and leaving the half-elf to his thoughts. Those had him clench tight the reins, wishing to snap at them but holding his tongue, they¡¯d earned their moments of passion this day.

    Glaring back to the captured gryphons revealed they shared the same sentiment, squirming and groaning under the wet smacking sounds of the gryphon couple. Fitting punishment he figured, far less than what they deserved. Lucky for this lot, the reward for their live capture was far greater than their death, otherwise he¡¯d have blasted them apart and left them where they fell, cutting off various parts to return home as proof. Gruesome he knew, but more than justified for what this lot had done. Fortunately for these bandits, the clerics of Parunga often took the taking of life as a last resort.

    Eventually the winding pass broke through the multicolored trees, opening to Featherton beyond. Its buildings were simple and quaint, carved into the mountainside by ancient gryphs of old. They were spread out over multiple layers, easy for gryphons to reach with their wings, connected by stairs for the more flying challenged visitors. These dwellings had sizable perches for any gryphon to rest upon that jutted out in the shape of gryphons in flight; to go along with these were flat, sturdy roofs, perfect for gryphons to lounge out in the sun and soak up the warming rays.

    The lower sections were ones constructed for humanoid guests, the buildings here lacking the apparent age. These were crafted of sturdy wood, the same roofs, collected like a group of dark brown stumps. Here there were shops, taverns, inns, and various establishments, all run by gryphon kind, perfect for those that wished not to climb the hundreds of steps to the other levels beyond.

    The town was one of activity, its surrounding airspace filled with the flight of dozens upon dozens of gryphons. They danced through the air as if to a hidden song, exchanging chirps and trills in a rush of blurred colors and fur. Like the autumn leaves the groups followed the currents, scattering outwards in a display of pure freedom. Other gryphons dwelled on the lower sections on foot, chirping and greeting humanoids that they met. These were adorned in layers of cloth, brightly colored and wrapped around hinds, fore talons and chests; they sold human garments as well, though they would be considered far too revealing for the norm. Some catbirds trilled out for humanoids to ride them to other levels, only charging a handful of coins. Gryphets darted across the cobblestone here, nipping at tuft tails, ears ignoring the cries of their watchful parents.

    Banners hung from the humanoid structures, waving in the wind. Most were of browns and golds, painted upon them the rampart gryphon of Lumara; others were bright reds and deep oranges, signaling the multitude of flights that called this place home.

    The clicking of the wagon¡¯s wheel set the pace for their return, accompanied by the clopping of Draigo¡¯s hooves. Gryphons drew attention with perked ears, whispering to one another that the Horrid Howlers had been caught. Some waved and cheered for Leon and his companions, to which the gryphons were warbling away.

    ¡°Store your horse here for the night fair adventurer!¡± Squawked a gryphon of almond fur and a stocky belly, he gestured to a sizable stable without a blemish about it. With Leon¡¯s attention upon him he slapped a wooden sign, one that read, Happy Horse Hotel. ¡°That¡¯s right sir, here at the Happy Horse Hotel, you can be guaranteed that your hooved companion will be completely safe, or your coin back with interest!¡±

    ¡°Fine deal that.¡± Krantor whispered, covering his beak with a wing, ¡°Typically they don¡¯t offer that.¡±

    The half-elf grumbled, knowing that there would be no other stable in Featherton. ¡°I¡¯m sleeping in the stall with him.¡± Grunted Leon, shoving a smattering of coins into the stable gryphon¡¯s open talon.

    ¡°Sleeping with your-¡° The almond gryphon adjusted his head to get a look between Draigo¡¯s legs, ¡°Stallion, I¡¯m not one to judge.¡± He rolled a wing to his feathery chest, ¡°I¡¯m sure I¡¯ve gotten up to stranger things.¡±

    ¡°Not like that you bastard.¡± Hissed the half-elf, ¡°I¡¯ve lost count of the number of horses I¡¯ve lost to gryphon accidents or midnight snacks over the years. I¡¯ll be sure to make sure none of your staff have any such accidents.¡±

    ¡°One time, it happened one time.¡± Groaned Hekate, ¡°And he never forgives me. I said I was sorry!¡±

    ¡°That doesn¡¯t bring back the horse, does it?¡±

    ¡°But he was tasty, does that help?¡±

    ¡°No!¡±

    Deep in his feathery throat, the almond gryphon chuckled, ¡°Sir, I guarantee your stallion will be as safe as an egg, even as¡­appetizing as it looks.¡±

    Leon¡¯s gaze narrowed, ¡°You¡¯re not really instilling any confidence.¡± He said bluntly, ¡°I¡¯ll be in there tonight, save us a spot.¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to charge you for another body.¡± Smirked the gryphon, opening his talon once more, ¡°Stalls are for one body, not two.¡±

    ¡°Listen here you charlatan. Leon here wouldn¡¯t have to sleep in there if your people could be trusted!¡± Hekate thrust a talon into the almond gryphon¡¯s chest, ¡°And further-more, he doesn¡¯t take up that much space! Look at him!¡±

    ¡°I am looking at him, what do you want me to do? My wings be tied.¡±

    ¡°Then¡­Untie them.¡± Glared Hekate, her eyes starting to crackle and spark literal electricity. ¡°We just captured the Horrid Howlers.¡±

    ¡°Yes I can see that-¡° The almond gryphon padded back, gulping as the female followed him, not giving him a inch of personal space. ¡°Madame, what do you want me to do?¡±

    ¡°Not charge him, are you deaf?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d do what she says.¡± Leon shrugged, smirking as the gryphon was chased around. ¡°Her claws can get really sharp.¡±

    Krantor chirped and stroked his chin, ¡°And she really hates it when people try to swindle us out of coins. Go get him hun!¡±

    ¡°On it sweety!¡± Hekate replied with a wink.

    ¡°Fine, fine, fine!¡± The almond gryphon flared his wings, stopping the female¡¯s chase with a raised talon and splayed ears, ¡°I give, you can have the ruddy stable for the price of one.¡±

    ¡°How very generous of you.¡± Said Leon, giving the gryphon a brief salute, ¡°And as I said, save us a spot.¡±

    ¡°Or she¡¯ll be back.¡± Krantor added with a hiss and lash of his tail.

    With lodgings for his horse secured, Leon and the others brought the Horrid Howlers to Featherton¡¯s guard captain, gifting him the four, squirming gryphons. The guard captain had strolled about the nefarious bunch, inspecting their behinds before gracing them with a firm, open talons smack.

    ¡°Good work the lot of you.¡± Said the brown gryphon with white spots smattered about his feathers. He was adorned in light armor of leather and chains, tail swishing amusingly back and forth. ¡°Though why the gags through the beaks?¡±

    ¡°Couldn¡¯t shut them up.¡± Leon replied as Krantor snickered into a wing.

    ¡°Surprised you brought them in alive, most wouldn¡¯t have.¡±

    He shrugged, ¡°You offered more money. Speaking of which-¡° Outwardly he extended his palm, getting thrust a satchel of coins into it.

    ¡°Then we¡¯re glad your hand was stayed by the appropriate amount of coin.¡± Chuckled the gryphon.

    It was all there as the captain had said, enough to cover their expenses at the inn, the stable and a night on the town. He nodded and wheeled about, leaving the Horrid Howlers to their fate at the talons of a trio of gryphons that grabbed them on the captain¡¯s command.

    ¡°You really going to sleep at the stables like the last town?¡± Krantor asked as they started to stroll away, playfully teasing as his wife eyes one of the professional preening services dangling an orange sign three levels up. ¡°I¡¯d hate to leave you alone while we get¡­pampered.¡±

    He rolled his eyes, knowing the preeners were essentially massages that had happy endings for the gryphons in question. ¡°Better that way, don¡¯t let me ruin your fun.¡±

    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t ruin it.¡± Hekate said, brushing up against him with a soothing chirp, in those Lavender pools was the empathetic soul he knew, ¡°You could¡­come with if you want.¡± She blinked seductively, swishing her tail.

    ¡°And if not that-¡° Krantor laughed, ¡°I¡¯m sure there are some preeners or three that would tend to your back¡­release your¡­tension?¡±

    He swatted away their playful beaks before they could nibble at his hair, ¡°I¡¯m fine, truly. Both of you, just-¡° He sighed, ¡°Go and have some fun alright?¡±

    ¡°Sure?¡± Hekate tilted her head, ears splayed. ¡°We don¡¯t have to go there if you don¡¯t want¡­that urge taken care of. There are plenty of humanoid places we can go to.¡±

    He rolled his eyes, they were honestly trying. Though what should have comforted him instead ate away at him, ruining what should have been a night of fun. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m sure. Now don¡¯t make me say it again before I dock your share of the coin. Speaking of which-¡° He handed out their share of the coin, each of the gryphons pocketing it in their pouches, no doubt about to be spent that evening.

    Both the gryphons rumbled and pressed against him, subjecting their human to an attack of feather and fur. Their trills filled the air as he desperately tried to push them off yet failed at every turn.

    ¡°Hey, watch it!¡±

    ¡°Thank you. Do try to have-¡° Hekate was cut off by the sound of fluttering wings as a brown and white gryphon landed beside them.

    ¡°Master Leon is that you I spy? Or is there another adventurer with pointy ears following a pair of gryphons around these parts?¡± The gryphon pinned his pristine wings, the white and orange scarf that he wore around his neck ruffling. Unlike Hekate and Krantor, this gryphon¡¯s fur was well groomed, his feathers spotless, the scent of nutmeg soon filling the air.

    ¡°Oh Lord.¡± Leon groaned, this could only mean one thing, Olas Mysticfeather. ¡°I just saw your master but a fortnight ago. Our arrangement was for once a month.¡±

    ¡°Oh marvelous it¡¯s you.¡± The gryphon¡¯s feathers ruffled, ¡°I could recognize that harsh speech anywhere. Good to see you in good health sir. I take it you thrashed those Horrid Howlers good?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± His arms folded as he ignored Hekate¡¯s beak sneaking into the edge of his vision.

    ¡°Oooooo¡­Leon¡¯s your boyfriend wants you.¡± Her voice cracked in a near squeal as her husband snickered behind her.

    The mercenary¡¯s cheeks started to blush, ¡°He¡¯s not my boyfriend for gods sakes. He¡¯s a rich client that has an arrangement with us. He gives us assignments, toys and coin-¡°

    She cut him off with hissy sounds as her husband chimed in.

    ¡°Is that why you always come back from these meeting smelling of him?¡±

    Oh gods, he¡¯d give anything to get out of this conversation as his two friends laughed and squawked away, both their wings falling upon his shoulders as they continued to squirm. ¡°Look, he¡¯s a noble, I¡¯m a commoner, whatever keeps the rich, thirsty prick happy alright? I¡¯ll take one for the team if it means money, jobs, and a noble not making our lives a living hell.¡±

    ¡°Does that make you a sex worker?¡± Krantor asked, getting a wing smacked across the face from his mate.

    ¡°Krantor, for shame.¡± She huffed with a nod, ¡°Olas loves his little hero. They¡¯re so cute together!¡±

    As Leon¡¯s cheeks burned like that of a volcano, he was relieved to have the gryphon noble pull him away, as Hekate was trying to insist that he should invite the lord for a romantic date.

    ¡°What does the bird want?¡± He hissed the brown gryphon.

    ¡°Just your presence at the estate master Leon. You in particular.¡± He gestured to his companions, ¡°They are not requested.¡±

    ¡°At least he¡¯s consistent in his priorities.¡± It was starting to appear as though Hekate¡¯s point was proving true. ¡°Did he say what he wanted to see me about?¡±

    ¡°Apologies. That he wasn¡¯t as forthcoming with. I imagine he wanted to have one of your personal chats, in a more intimate setting than the town square.¡±

    ¡°Hells.¡± He shook his head, hands on his hips, ¡°And does he know that we already had our time for the month?¡±

    ¡°I do believe that occurred to him yes.¡± The brown gryphon shifted his hinds, ¡°He did seem rather fond to have you over sir.¡±

    Of course, the gryphon would not keep to the deal. The half-elf grit his teeth, figuring it was better to keep the Lord happy than to protest and cause a ruckus. ¡°Fine, but this won¡¯t be a normal thing alright?¡±

    ¡°Understood.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s totally going to try and fuck me when I get there isn¡¯t he?¡± He groaned.

    ¡°He had quite the pep in his step sir, swishing tail and all that. I do believe I heard him humming.¡± The brown gryphon bowed with a wing, ¡°Shall I deliver master Leon to his clutch-I mean his estate?¡±

    ¡°You going?¡± Krantor¡¯s eyebrows bounced, as his mate nuzzled him, impatient to get to their night of fun. ¡°Don¡¯t want to keep Lord Olas waiting after all.¡±

    Groaning, Leon wheeled around, unwilling to look into his gryphon¡¯s pleased faces. Though he knew they meant well, it came from a misunderstanding of what he and Olas had. ¡°Not like I have a choice, do I? I refuse and the wizard insists, pulling any string to make us. If I continue to resist, he can make our lives a living hell.¡± Kicking the dirt it settled into his gut, this was going to happen, but he¡¯d go on his own terms; he thrust a finger into the brown gryphon¡¯s chest, ¡°I¡¯ll be taking Draigo there.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure?¡± The gryphon stuttered, ears splayed, taken back. His eyes flicked to the sun as it was drawing ever nearer to the horizon, ¡°But that will take an hour at least, it will be dusk by then! The flight would be just a few minutes!¡±

    ¡°Yes, but I can leave on my own terms.¡± He tapped the gryphon¡¯s beak, ¡°Instead of relying on your Lord to return me.¡±

    ¡°He does like to keep you there.¡± Krantor chirped.

    ¡°It¡¯s sweet.¡± Hekate sighed, ¡°He doesn¡¯t want you to leave. Oh, I have an idea, why don¡¯t you spend the night! He has a place for your horse and everything, and he won¡¯t eat it, he¡¯s just as crazy about horses as you are!¡±

    The pompous gryphon looked to them all, clearly fearful at giving his Lord the bad news. His ears pinned as he took a deep breath, ¡°So I should expect to inform my master of your impending arrival?¡±

    ¡°Do what you want.¡± Growled Leon, clambering up onto Draigo¡¯s back. With his goodbyes to the others he rode off, rolling his eyes at how they waved and chirped, wishing him a wonderful night. Like he wasn¡¯t riding off to be some rich asshole¡¯s plaything. The mercenary steeled himself and watched the road, reminding himself that whatever fa?ade that Olas presented, beneath the surface was nothing more. The reality bit the mercenary¡¯s lip as the horse below him brought him out of town.

 Gilded Cage: Chapter 4+5

    <u>Chapter 4</u>

    It was dark by the time Leon arrived with Olas¡¯ realm. He¡¯d long since known the way from Featherton, could find his way blind if he truly needed to. He wasn¡¯t sure if that was something to be proud about or ashamed. The estate was nestled up close to the hamlet of Beaksburg, where the gryphons waved, chirped and greeted him, knowing the most likely reason for his visit. Course they all assumed he was Olas¡¯ favored mercenary, the noble half-elf that acted on their Lord¡¯s request; little did they know the rest.

    He clung to Draigo as the horse brought him along, the steed filled with vibrant energy. Draigo bound along as a horse of years younger, seeking to go faster than Leon willed. No doubt the horse¡¯s mind remembered the pampering and the meals that he¡¯d receive, to be a trophy instead of the working beast that he was. Was this visit going to be any different from the last? The half-elf watched the road and hills beyond, lingering on the reds and oranges that gave the forest the look as though it were aflame. Olas typically kept to his arrangement of one night a month, in exchange for his word and gifts that would aid Leon in his adventures; this was an oddity. Unease stirred in his gut, clenched his hands tight on the reins, did he like the idea that the gryphon wanted to see him?

    It would go how it always went, he¡¯d show up demanding answers for the quest and he¡¯d be flirted with the entire time. It was a practiced dance both parties knew so well, his fingers had already started to imagine how they¡¯d be caressing the rust gryphon¡¯s feathers and his fine, dove furred haunches. There would be much blushing as the confident beast circled him like a predator, clicking his beak in anticipation. Lust would flow off him like a fog, dwell in the gaze that held Leon so. His beak would run through his hair, a hand groping his backside, promises of a night of passion would be laid bare. Would the half-elf stay and be captive to the lord¡¯s unrelenting desires?

    Leon scowled and shook his head of such enticing thoughts, for they were nothing more than a fancy. No matter what the lord displayed, what to come would only be no more real than the catbirds multitude of illusions. What could Leon offer such a person that had everything that he could not get from his fellow kin? Did he have land, connections, vast wealth; no. He was just a fancy plaything, a distraction from life¡¯s challenges, to be used up and discarded when the gryphon eventually tired. That fact pressed a cold claw to the man¡¯s heart as Draigo brought him through the estate¡¯s first gate.

    Towers rose from the path, each of pristine granite, woven beautifully by magical hands. It rested as a silent guardian, its windows lit with lights within, like the bright eyes of a larger beast. Its dark almond turrets had oval openings large enough for the gryphons themselves, leading to a perch so that they might rest. There they could see for miles, one was there now, clad in bright silver armor, its glowing eyes locked upon Leon the entire time. The gryphon gave a knowing nod, swishing his white tuft tail.

    Inside the walls were fields of tamed grass, perfect for running around or rolling about to enjoy the sun. Various buildings rose from this, of elegant designs with gilded edgings, forged it seemed by the same hand as the towers themselves. They were surrounded by statues of ivory, famous gryphons of both the Steelbeak and Mysticfeather line, who had held sway over these lands for decades. In these faces Leon stared, wondering what they¡¯d think of their latest blood, fooling around with someone of lower station as he.

    Around shrubberies and gardens he was led, where servants stopped their tasks to wave and greet him with hand or wing. Their giggling and knowing whispers could only bring blood to the mercenary¡¯s cheeks as Draigo brought him on the well-known path, straight for the stables and the pen beyond.

    The stables were set within a sprawling pen, of sturdy wood of the finest oak, lit by a series of posts with mana stones. The fields were vibrant and green, hinting at a magical touch considering the time of year. Within the enclosed area, several draft horses were trotting or chasing one another about in play. Olas kept these to train, breed and ride, a strange hobby for a gryphon to have, but then again, he was anything but ordinary.

    Dismounting the horse, he lingered on the horizon, where streaks of comforting oranges and reds reached out upon the tapestry of lavender. They stretched across the sky, like arms desperate to hold onto the coming night. The moon could be seen, soft and gentle, a perfect example of the gods Fureen and Sartren, only getting glimpses of one another, yet holding onto their passion. It was a tragedy that such lovers were to be drawn apart, sharing something so pure that Leon could never have. He sighed, pulled from his thoughts by the sound of an approaching horse.

    It was of course Olas, that much was obvious, the gryphon having assumed an anthropomorphic shape. His form was wrapped in a dark blue tunic and black trousers, the gold stitching winking in the dwindling light like fire. Ears were perked in interest, his eyes twin seas of amusement and hunger as the catbird held firm the cantering Percheron horse below him; His autumn themed feathers were a stark contrast to the horse¡¯s black fur. Out came a pleased song from the mage¡¯s beak, carrying on the air to blush Leon¡¯s cheek. Crown feathers rose atop his feathery head as he bid his mount to stop, practically leaping off.

    With a flash of lavender light and plume of smoke, Olas landed on the ground upon all fours. He had returned to his normal shape. He stood five feet at the withers, his feathers and fur well groomed. Crown feathers rose as he approached the gate, exuding power and confidence with every stride. His haunches swayed, his tail flicked, it seemed that nothing mattered to this gryphon than the half-elf that stood before him. Leon groaned as he guided Draigo to the pen¡¯s gate, this was going to be like all the other times.

    ¡°My darling Leo!¡± Chirped Olas with glee as Leon opened the gate to let his horse trot inside.

    ¡°Olas.¡± Grunted Leon, slipping inside and fastening the pen¡¯s lock with a click. ¡°You¡¯re aware that we saw each other already for the month?¡±

    ¡°Of course! But you can¡¯t blame me for seeing my favorite hero in all of Lumara! How did that little adventure go with the Horrid Howlers? I heard you gave those dastardly gryphs a rightful thrashing.¡±

    So, he was keeping tabs on him. He wasn¡¯t all that surprised. ¡°It went alright, had a slight hiccup with Hekate, but we pulled through in the end. Wasn¡¯t that exciting.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t give yourself credit my dear, I always find your adventures thrilling and amusing. Even the small little quaint ones like these!¡± Olas slipped around the mercenary with a pleased coo, staying but a hand length away, like a predator and Leon was his next meal. ¡°I¡¯m glad that your companions were able to help, but I¡¯m sure you were the star of the show.¡±

    Leon¡¯s cheeks were burning, this close it was hard to not take in the gryphon¡¯s earthy scent. It was like a treasured spice, thick and enticing. It reminded him of the forest as it sent a shiver down his spine. His blood whispered about previous nights, passion that they shared, without thinking he caught a quick peak to the lord¡¯s thick and furred sheath, immediately looking away and cursing himself. He was supposed to resist this! He pushed down such thoughts with gnashed teeth, knowing the gryphon was doing this all on purpose, a dance to arouse his lust for him. ¡° Olas, what is it you wanted with me? You sent your butler. Let¡¯s stop dancing around it.¡±

    ¡°Right. Cause you didn¡¯t pick up your bracer!¡± He snagged the man¡¯s arm with a hand, tapping at his metal bracer, ¡°I do recall giving you one so that I could contact you, yet I can¡¯t help but notice you¡¯re not wearing it.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t like the idea of someone tracking my movements.¡± He pulled back his arm as the gryphon chuckled in amusement.

    ¡°Was that all? I could do that already! It was merely a way to communicate so I didn¡¯t have to-¡° The gryphon opened and closed his wings, ¡°Pop up as you said in your own words.¡±

    ¡°Having your face suddenly appear in wood, stone, my morning breakfast or the fur of Hekate¡¯s backside were quite alarming.¡±

    ¡°I do remember that one time. But that only reinforces my point.¡±

    ¡°That you should have a direct line to me at all times?¡±

    ¡°And how is that so bad?¡± Olas cooed, brushing so close that he and Leon¡¯s faces were touching, ¡°It always warms my heart to talk to my strong, handsome half-elf hero.¡± Up went a hand to caress the man¡¯s chin, ¡°Just wear the bracer my dear, it will be easier for both of us. Then I won¡¯t need to send the help to collect you whenever the need for you strikes.¡± With a wistful sigh the gryphon released him and turned, gesturing for the man to follow with a wing.

    He padded after that swaying behind, the tail hypnotizing as it swished back and forth. The sinful haunches that had held his hands far too many times. It didn¡¯t help that Olas was flashing the man his plump, furry orbs that could fill out his palm. As the fire inside him begged to be paid attention to, it was all Leon could do to push away the thoughts and race to Olas¡¯ side, to not be seduced by his fluffy behind.

    ¡°That is a lovely specimen you have their Leo. I¡¯m surprised you¡¯ve managed to hold onto him for so long.¡± Olas gestured to Draigo, who was now striding up upon several of Olas¡¯ horses, ¡°Considering the accident with your last one.¡±

    ¡°Hetake is trying to do better, and Krantor her mate, horse meat isn¡¯t his favorite.¡±

    ¡°How strange, most enjoy the taste, myself included.¡± He chirped as his horses paid attention to his passing, ¡°Not you though my dears, you will always be safe from my talons!¡±

    ¡°Just cut to the chase Olas.¡± Leon put himself in front of the larger catbird, staring into his amusement filled eyes, like this dance had a forgone conclusion. ¡°Why did you bring me here?¡±

    ¡°Ooo, taking charge are we?¡± Purred Olas, ¡°Or are you mad that I interrupted a night with your friends?¡± The gryphon rubbed up alongside him, nuzzling at Leon¡¯s cheek with a seductive trill, ¡°We could always have a party here tonight if you want.¡±

    ¡°Olas!¡± He yelped as the gryphon grabbed his butt, giving it a squeeze. ¡°Just tell me why.¡±

    ¡°Why indeed.¡± He slipped away, guiding Leon towards his home. ¡°I had the wonderful thought today in my time. There I was, woefully tending to the commoners when I heard the most delightful news!¡±

    ¡°News about what?¡±

    ¡°The circus Leo!¡±

    ¡°Circus?¡± He asked with hesitation, as the gryphon seemed to bounce on his paws with delight. ¡°What¡¯s so great about the circus?¡±

    Olas gasped, stopping mid stride. ¡°Have you not been?¡± His feathers ruffled as his eyes went wide, ¡°Oh you must go!¡± The gryphon rounded on him, running his flank alongside Leon¡¯s back, ¡°Which brings me to my next request.¡±

    Leon groaned, ¡°Olas if this has to do with my cock, please, the horse one you gave me is enough.¡±

    ¡°Oh, heavens no, not that!¡± Olas playfully batted him with a wing, ¡°Though it pleases me to know you enjoy your horse cock as much as mine.¡± He padded away, turning to draw the man¡¯s eyes into his plump sheath. It trembled and twitched, the blunt tip of Olas¡¯ molted shaft cresting out of its dove furred container.

    He averted his gaze, before his cheeks burned right off. Trembling, the man tried to keep the image of control, but knowing deep down if the gryphon gave the order now, he¡¯d be his. He pushed the seductive bird back, ¡°Olas, Olas, why the circus?¡±

    ¡°Because of my daughter!¡± Chirped the gryphon fondly, ¡°She ever does love the circus. Why I remember when she was a gryphet, she used to cry tears of such joy. I figured that we could make it a day, really enjoy ourselves.¡±

    ¡°Sounds like a wonderful time. What does that have to do with me?¡±

    ¡°Well, if I want to enjoy myself fully. I positively must have you there! So, it occurred to me, that you and your little friends can be my bodyguards!¡±

    ¡°Bodyguards?¡± He rose a brow, the gryphon had to be joking. Olas was one of the most powerful magicians in this part of the kingdom, any protection that Leon and the others could provide was laughable at best, plus the gryphon had his own guards. Then he saw the twinkle in Olas¡¯ eye, the delight. This was a game, a way to conceal having Leon right in his paws, at his beck and call. One that he was expected to play along with. He groaned, ¡°We¡¯re adventurers Olas, we travel around and slay monsters. We don¡¯t do the bodyguard thing.¡±

    Olas caught Leon¡¯s chin with a tender hand, the talons able to tear through flesh should he choose. Yet with upmost care he diverted the man¡¯s gaze to his own, drawing so close their lip and beak might meet. ¡°I can pay you.¡±

    He blushed and pulled away, he¡¯d almost pressed forward and locked tongues with the bastard. ¡°It better not be with your ass.¡±

    ¡°In coin.¡± Olas squawked before following the man, wrapping a talon around his waist, and pulling him in, ¡°Though you could just consider fucking my ass an added perk. I do so know how you like to hold me down and pound me till I¡¯m squawking your name.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re serious about just the coin then?¡± He held the gryphon¡¯s chin, ¡°This better not be a trick to get me into that circus, only to sneak away and have me chug your balls.¡±

    ¡°Though that idea crossed my mind, no, not every time can be like our rendezvous at Tomigus. You will just be accompanying my daughter and I to the circus.¡± He chuckled and waved a wing, ¡°And fighting off any nefarious miscreants that try to hurt us.¡±

    ¡°You think there will be at a circus?¡±

    ¡°You should know better than anyone that people want us gryphons for our bodies.¡±

    As the lord chuckled at his comment, Leon could only think on how easy this job would be. Sure, Olas was going to have his fun, but if his daughter was coming along, that would mean no instances of the gryphon turning this into a sexual adventure. ¡°Fine you win, but the pay will have to be great indeed. We are experienced adventurers you know.¡±

    ¡°Of that I am quite aware! I do so love the stories that you tell me of your previous adventurers.¡±

    ¡°When can we accompany you to this circus?¡±

    ¡°I should imagine in two days, can¡¯t see it taking them that much longer to unpack their things.¡±

    ¡°On Fireday?¡±

    ¡°Just the start of the weekend.¡± Olas chirped with glee, ¡°First thing in the morning, I don¡¯t want to waste a single moment of that day.¡± A wing wrapped around Leon and dragged him close, feathers brushing him, the gryphon¡¯s scent overpowering. Desire lurked in those kind eyes, so powerful, enticing.

    ¡°Olas.¡± He struggled to say, ¡°I need to get back to others and tell-¡°He was cut off by a sensual talon resting on his chest, beak drawing closer.

    ¡°Are you sure sweety? All the way out here¡­By the time you ride back it will be night. How about you come inside, and you can give my haunches one of your famous massages, you can tell me all about your adventure.¡± His voice lowered, dripping with lust as he ran a solitary talon along Leon¡¯s neck, ¡°Doesn¡¯t that sound thrilling?¡±

    He tried to pull away but found himself trapped. Not only by the gryphon¡¯s forceful gaze, but that of his burning blood. ¡°Olas I-¡°Came the last of his resistance, only to be whisked away as Olas whispered in his ear.

    ¡°And you can fuck me to your little heart¡¯s content. Can you picture it my hero, my tail clenching you every so tight, milking you for every drop? You¡¯ll hear me squawk your name, throw back my beak and shriek in passion. Then, since I know you¡¯re the greatest of gentlemen, you¡¯ll throw yourself to all fours and suck my thick cock until I¡¯m filling your precious belly with seed.¡±

    He gulped at the imagery now pulverizing his thoughts, he couldn¡¯t pull away from the gryphon; not now, not with how a fire had been ignited in his veins. Without a thought he surged forward, hands caressing the gryphon¡¯s head as he plunged his tongue into the lord¡¯s beak. Eyes hooded as he moaned and pressed ever closer as Olas returned the gesture. For a solid minute they were groaning into one another, losing themselves as an air of passion overtook them.

    ¡°Good boy.¡± Olas parted, a smirk of victory about him as the two were connected by a thin strand of saliva. ¡°Now let¡¯s get you into something more comfortable. Ideally me.¡±

    <u>Chapter 5</u>

    Hours passed until night had gripped the land in its inky claw. The trees, roads and buildings were all still visible, only because they did not reflect the stars. It was as if everything was a shadowy memory, a silhouette of what once existed, only to be brought back to life once the sun had returned.

    Olas rolled to the side of his bed, his chest rising and falling as he panted. Around his chambers were the aftermath of he and Leon¡¯s activities, empty potions and vials, magical concoctions to better aid and enhance their passions. The room was dimly lit by a mana lantern¡¯s glow, instilling a sense of calm after the raging carnal whirlwind that had swept through them. Leon was flushed, lying on his back, despite his initial resistance, a pleased look across his face. Olas¡¯ tail flicked, soaking up the novelty of having a handsome, naked half-elf laying just a forelimb reach away.

    Was this how it was supposed to be? Wrapped in a warm, invigorating shroud of delight that still tickled with every breath? Though words were not coming, he¡¯d never felt more connected than he did in these fleeting moments between the pair. The concerns and worries of the day were lost, held at bay by the mere look from this man. It should have been terrifying that such a person could hold Olas in such sway, and yet he couldn¡¯t get enough, he wanted more. He wanted his bed to always feel this welcoming, instead of the cold means to an end that it typically was.

    ¡°What is it?¡± Leon opened an eye, meeting the gryphon¡¯s own. ¡°Something wrong?¡±

    He rolled over onto the man, supporting himself so that his entire weight did not rest against him. Hands on either side of Leon¡¯s torso, Olas¡¯ beak loomed overhead. Ears perked as he gave an honest warble, radiating through his very being. How wonderful this man looked, brow raised, a smirk coming to his lips as he guessed what the gryphon wanted.

    ¡°You want another round do you?¡± A hand rested against Olas¡¯ chest, grasping at his feathers, eyes drifting down between his legs before back to the gryphon¡¯s face.

    A tender talon placed upon his lips silenced the man, questions bursting within his beautiful verdant eyes. Olas dwelled upon the freckles that were smattered about his nose and cheeks, ever so cute as the man wondered what could possibly be going between his ears.  ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°Then¡­what do you-¡°

    He silenced him with a kiss, beak parted to gently rest on either side of Leon¡¯s cheek. Inside, explosions of bliss coursed through him, leading way to passionate groans and moans as he slid a hand ever delicately around the man. He swooned as Leon pushed back, eyes hooded, hands wrapping around the feathery chest that held him trapped. When they parted, foreheads rested against one another, enjoying the closeness shared. Olas¡¯ heart trembled as the question came tumbling out, ¡°Will you stay?¡±

    For a moment, Leon stared at him, almost shocked by the request. Perhaps because it had lacked the regal nature he usually conveyed, or the command he wielded like a sword, instead it was raw; a glimpse into the gryphon¡¯s vulnerable heart. The half-elf scoffed, pushing away the gryphon¡¯s face with a smirk, ¡°Almost got me.¡± He slipped out from under the gryphon to the edge of the bed, ¡°Don¡¯t start getting all mushy with me featherbrain.¡±

    Oh, Leon was not to get off that easy. Olas rolled so that he was right up against the man, encompassing his entire body beneath his own. Forelimbs moved to hold him tight as feathers and fur nestled perfectly up against soft skin. Leon tried to squirm, but it was too late, Olas had him right where he wanted him. Beak rubbed up against the man¡¯s cheek, applying gryphon kisses with a melody of trills.

    ¡°Stop!¡±

    He continued applying his affections, each one bringing a new shade of crimson to Leon¡¯s cheeks. Resistance was met with firm control, keeping him secure.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.

    ¡°Come on, are you that needy?¡± Leon laughed, shifting to push the gryphon off him, who half-heartily complied. It however came with a price; the half-elf found his hand secured by the gryphon¡¯s beak. ¡°Hey!¡±

    Olas held, eyebrows raising up and down as he fought the urge to giggle. As Leon went to wedge his hand free, the gryphon held it ever firm. Not enough to harm the man, but enough so that he could not retrieve his hand.

    ¡°Olas, you¡¯re being-¡°

    His red-orange tuft tail flopped against the bed, accompanied by a playful rumble.

    ¡°Show off.¡± When the gryphon released him, Leon batted him across the face, only for the gryphon to push him down to the bed.

    ¡°You little minx. I do believe that needs to be punished.¡±

    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t-¡°

    With a yelp of surprise, Olas grabbed the man, rolled over and shoved him into the sheets. Talons gentle danced over his sides, teasing places he knew too well. These were his weaknesses, would cause his legs to kick, his body to thrash. The gryphon¡¯s ears perked, crown feathers raising as he proceeded to torture the man with a flurry of tickles.

    ¡°Olas you monster!¡± Laughed Leon, squirming, but unable to slip free, ¡°Stop it!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what you get for bopping a gryphon on the head Leon, you¡¯ve brought this on yourself.¡± Olas replied, ¡°What did you think was going to happen?¡±

    ¡°You¡­fucking¡­dick!¡±

    Together they laughed, cheerful and free, soon rolling against the sheets, pressed up close to one another. Olas landed on his back, his feathery wings spread wide, the half-elf firmly secured against his chest most tenderly. He glanced down to that red face, the fa?ade of a scowl for inflicting upon him such an assault. Hands crawled along the man¡¯s back, shifting to a most affectionate stroke. Everything was as it should be, held so close against him. The gryphon could close his eyes here, drift away to the man¡¯s gentle weight upon his chest. It was seductive, overpowering, he didn¡¯t wish for it to end.

    ¡°I have to go.¡± Leon went to push himself free, only for the gryphon to lock him in, securing his fate. There would be no escape without a fight. ¡°Lemme go.¡±

    Olas caressed Leon¡¯s head, ¡°Never.¡±

    With a sign of ingenuity, Leon used this moment to slip free, gaining the upper hand. He grabbed the gryphons¡¯ wrists and pressed them to the bed; he leaned forward, looming overhead.

    Their eyes met, the air between them starting to grow warm once more. How many times had they been in this spot? Passions soon overboiling until they were enraptured in one another, crying out their delight to the halls? The gryphons heart began to quicken, seeing a glimmer of care within Leon¡¯s tender eyes. It splayed his ears forced him to act, he shifted up, parting his beak for a kiss. To his astonishment Leon covered it, denying him. ¡°What-¡°

    It was the lords turn to have his head pressed back into the pillows, Leon¡¯s visage softening as he beheld the gryphon¡¯s form. A hand stroked those furry ears, sweeping back to caress crown feathers as he drew close. Eyes closed as he stole a kiss. ¡°Asshole.¡± He spoke softly, betrayed by the fondness within the word.

    Beak parted in victory as he wrapped his arms around his mercenary, pulling him down into another hug. He warbled as Leon¡¯s face buried itself into his neck, giving into the gryphon¡¯s demand.

    ¡°One hour-¡° Grumbled Leon as the gryphon¡¯s tail coiled behind him, ¡°One hour more and I¡¯m gone.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what you said last time.¡± Smirked Olas.

    ¡°But this time I mean it.¡±

    When the hour was up, Leon this time kept his promise. The man had slipped free of the bed to retrieve his scattered garments all under the enchanted eye of his feathery consort. Before he had hugged and kissed the lord wizard goodnight, Olas gifted upon him another bracer, one that could communicate with him and warn the gryphon should the half-elf find himself in mortal peril. He kissed the man goodnight and let him depart, wishing him a safe ride back to Featherton.

    He''d smirked at how the man was walking, a funny gait thanks to the powerhouse resting between the gryphon¡¯s legs. From his bed chambers he observed with a flicking, amused tail as Leon retrieved his horse, lighting the way with a mana lantern he must have borrowed from the staff. There the gryphon lingered, wistfully sighing until the mercenary was little more than a dot on the dark tapestry of the night. He wheeled around, already the sting of his absence starting to poke and prod along his sides. Ears splayed, head drooped, his presence would be missed, the halls around him began to feel emptier, devoid of what wonderment they held.

    Bottles and potions clinked as the gryphon began tending to their mess, evidence of their passion scattered about the floor. Ones made to ease entry, others to clean and increase virility and restore endurance. All perfect to ensure a long and passionate night that would be addicting to any living creature. Olas¡¯ steps came sluggish, a ghost of himself that was alive mere minutes before. To the bed he stared, picturing them laughing together, already he regretted having him depart. Should he have forced the issue? Made the request more of a demand? Why would the half-elf leave what was a place of comfort and warmth for his quaint village with his friends? Didn¡¯t he see that everything he could ever want was here within these walls?

    There should have been no choice given. When it was his turn to tend to the man that held his heart in such sway, he should have remembered about his anatomy and locked the pair of them together. Then Leon would have been forced to stay, panting and blissful in his afterglow. It would have been a wonderful end to a delightful night, one he was certain Leon would have enjoyed.

    Though did he see it that way? Was this all just an extra bit of the exchange that needed to be fulfilled? He arranged several of the empty potions upon his study¡¯s desk, wondering if the man only put up with his affections because of the gifts, freedom, and power that the gryphon gave to him. If these things were retracted, would he even stay? The cold thought sent a shiver down his spine, that all this happiness was an act, Leon being just like all the others that desired something of him. ¡°Maybe he thinks you¡¯re treating him like a love slave?¡± Olas asked himself, catching his reflection in the glass.

    He laughed at something so ridiculous, ¡°Do you hear yourself? You¡¯re being ridiculous. All these doubts and questions, of course Leon cares for you! Yes, he has the agreement of once a month, but he always indulges when you ask, comes when called. You see the looks he gives you, those fleeting, powerful looks of desire and delight. If he didn¡¯t want you, he could have left at any moment, it¡¯s not like you¡¯ve ever raised a voice to stop him.¡± Shaking his head, he returned to arranging his sheets, using spells to be rid of any stain of fluids that might reside upon them. He chirped and hummed to himself as he worked, Leon after all was his oldest friend, known to him since they were children. He was being paranoid, the mercenary had friends to inform of their next quest, he would spend the night another day.

    It didn¡¯t take too much of his time to ensure his quarters were pristine, lacking any evidence of their carnal escapades. He slipped to the halls, practically bouncing on his hinds as he softly warbled to himself. Ears perked as Olivia called to him, asking if he needed her attentions to his room. Had she been listening to the entire time?

    ¡°I¡¯ve taken care of it Olivia, thank you!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be the judge of that!¡±

    ¡°Just don¡¯t break anything on your inspection dear, I don¡¯t want to spend the night undoing whatever curse you accidently afflict upon yourself¡±

    ¡°If I get cursed master Olas, you¡¯ll never hear the end of it!¡±

    He chuckled to himself, not doubting she¡¯d live up to such a threat. One such time came to mind, of when she¡¯d slipped on a pool of lube that he¡¯d neglected to remove with his prestidigitation spell. She¡¯d nearly spent thirty minutes lecturing to him like he was a spoiled child, threatening to withhold his dinner. He¡¯d scoffed at the laughable threat; he¡¯d have just summoned it to his hands. She¡¯d managed to turn three shades of red that day.

    Up along the spiral stairs Olas did tread, his talons clicking softly upon the marble. Mana lanterns lit his path upon his request, the stones coming to life with but a click of his tongue. Their warm radiance chased away the shadows that dwelled down the network of hallways that stretched out from here, like the many roots of a grand red wood. It wasn¡¯t until he¡¯d reached the top floor did, he come to his daughter¡¯s quarters.

    It was a simple crimson door, with runes engraved in the draconic tongue. Olas chuckled as they forbid his entry, but he¡¯d found they¡¯d never had the power to do so. The lord reared up, rapping his talons against the wooden surface, his voice brassy and filled with joy, ¡°Oh Luna, are you in there? I¡¯d like to have a word with you. This is your father by the way!¡±

    Silence greeted him, leaving the gryphon to roll his eyes and place an ear to the door.

    Inside was no better than the quiet halls, only the steady thumping of his heart reached him. Either his daughter was practicing how silent she could be, or she wasn¡¯t in there. Pulling back, he gave the sign one last roll of his eyes, there was only one way to find out. ¡°I do hope you¡¯re decent in there darling, we¡¯ve discussed this before! If you¡¯re going to have dearest Arion over and fool around with the charming gryphon, you¡¯re to be loud and vocal. That way caring fathers don¡¯t walk in to catch you getting pounded harder than a block of adamantine!¡±

    Still not a sound.

    Ears splayed, was she truly out? That usually got her attention. He strut to a window within the hallway, peering out to the starlit sky. She was always in at this hour unless she¡¯d snuck out while he and Leon were engaging in their many matings. Had they been that loud? Olas chuckled to himself, perhaps he¡¯d have to show some restraint in the future. ¡°Alright darling, I gave my warning, I¡¯m coming in!¡± With a trill and tracing a rune upon the air, Olas launched it at the door, ¡°Klaan.¡± The word came harsh, masked by the click of his daughter¡¯s door. It creaked open as his feathers settled.

    ¡°Darling, I¡¯m here.¡± Olas announced as he strode inside, finding the room devoid of light. Naturally his dark vision kicked in, allowing him to gaze upon her quarters in shades of black, grey and white. With a click of his tongue the mana lanterns within flared to life.

    The room was large enough for several gryphons to rest with their wings extended, circular in nature with a large turreted ceiling. Along the wooden beams lay a singular perch, that would allow Luna to gaze upon her room. It was of course dominated by books, of history and spell craft to only name a few. In organized piles they were sprinkled around the room, almost like pillars themselves, reaching out for the ceiling above. Her bed was large, untidied, with more pillows upon it than the mattress itself.

    ¡°Darling?¡± His voice waivered as he tentatively slid around the book pillars, careful to avoid his tail catching and dragging them down like some clumsy red dragon might.

    His gaze shifted to dark jewelry that adorned her weathered dressers, crafted with fine gems and shimmering in the mana lantern light. That began the journey to busts of ivory that his daughter had crafted with her hands, imperfect emotions captured of the gryphon form, then to the charming pictures of them painted when she was just a young gryphet. Olas sighed at the bright face of his daughter, unburdened with the weight of his decisions; where she might run and play with him, hanging on every word he said. He gave a heavy sigh, those days vastly out of reach. As he neared her bed, he spied origami figures that he¡¯d given to her over the years, spread out in a diorama. His beak parted to a smile as a warmth touched him, even if their relationship was strained, there were still threads to bring it back.

    ¡°But if she isn¡¯t here, then where?¡± Olas turned around, breaking through the cloud of nostalgia and memory that had gripped him. She of course had many hiding spots across their estate and that was even if she was here. The gryphon lashed his tail, hoping that his lusts for a certain mercenary had not denied him the chance to invite his daughter to the circus. He paced, head down as he strode to the hallway, taking in the scent that wafted through the air.

    Soap and lavender, evidence of Olivia¡¯s cleaning solutions. The wizard pinned his ears, padding around, beak close to the marble as he tried to catch the tiniest whiff of his daughter. He¡¯d have tried a locating spell if he¡¯d remembered to prepare one for the day, but alas, he wasn¡¯t omnipotent.

    ¡°Doe¡¯s Olivia¡¯s room need to be cleaned master Olas?¡± Olivia called from floors down, the eagerness apparent in her voice.

    ¡°What makes you think it needs to be?¡±

    ¡°Let me count the ways. Books that need to be sorted to her shelves, clothing that needs to be tucked and put away, bedding that needs to be made and not disorganized like some sort of beast!¡±

    His beak opened and closed several times. Did he really want to sour things with his daughter further? ¡°Actually Olivia, she took care of it! Wouldn¡¯t you know, she listened to us for once!¡±

    ¡°You expect me to believe that? The gryphet hasn¡¯t cleaned her room in nearly a decade!¡±

    An indignant squawk left him, ¡°Then why did you go about asking me?¡±

    ¡°Did you take care of it?¡¯

    ¡°Perhaps another time! I¡¯ve already upset her this morning, I really don¡¯t want to do so again. Not when I have the most charming news!¡± He replied, already picturing the maid gryphon rolling her eyes at his excuse.

    Around the hall he carried on, like a tracking direwolf they had in Drenedar. Unlike the horse sized canine, he did it with far more style. He had wings after all, and feathers. Now he might not have been one of the fabled gryphon trackers, but he had enough instinct in him to find a scent to follow it. Ears perked as he finally caught whiff of Luna, her scent going down the west wing of this floor, where there could only be one answer, the observatory! He warbled at his own success, crown feathers rising swiftly, she¡¯d always loved spending time there since she was a gryphet! The lord pranced around in a circle three times before he caught himself and took a deep, composing breath. He had to focus; his daughter was upset after all.

    The observatory was at the highest sections of the estate, past his vast library of which contained many tomes that had captivated his attentions over the years. At the top of three levels of spiral staircases the observatory sat, the door here one decorated with stars. It still bore the paint from when Luna had been a gryphet, holding brushes as they lovingly applied every stroke of black, lavender, and yellow paint. Sartren¡¯s glory she¡¯d once said, eyes practically twinkling.

    With a resounding chirp of delight, he burst through the doors, ¡°Hello my sweet gryphet, I¡¯m so glad to have found you! Doing a little astrology before taking to bed?¡±

    Luna was leaning back in a circular chair, flat enough that she might rest upon her spread wings. Before her was a telescope of great proportions, one that dominated most of the room. Its shaft rose through the ceiling, giving those that gazed with its eyepiece a front row seat to all the splendor that Sartren had crafted all those years ago. Within the gryphoness¡¯ talons was a quill from one of her feathers, and a scroll of parchment in the other. She was busy scratching away, seemingly oblivious of her father¡¯s entry. Around her were piles of books, some open to various passages of constellations.

    Charts were spread out on a wooden table, where measuring implements rested upon it. Around this were shelves upon shelves of multi-tombed books.

    ¡°Must you swing in here in such a fashion?¡± Luna groaned, her ears pinned to the back of her neck, ¡°You¡¯ve nearly deafened me.¡±

    He chuckled nervously as he shut the door with delicate care, ensuring not a sound was to be had. ¡°Apologies my little Starfire, I did not mean to hurt your precious ears, or disrupt your research.¡±

    ¡°And yet you have.¡±

    ¡°What pray tell has caught your eye?¡±

    ¡°Nothing grand or enlightening if you must know.¡± A withering glance was cast in his direction, ¡°But gazing upon the sky was better than listening to the noise coming from your chambers.¡±

    ¡°Right.¡± He winced, ears splayed, ¡°Though I¡¯m glad to see you in this place, I did so love it when I was a child.¡± Olas sighed and ran a talon over the smooth metal of the telescope, fond memories of his youth, excited by the knowledge that he would read the stars, tell of great prophecies, wield magic that not many could master. ¡°You take after me in that regard.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that dad. Or else I¡¯d be sleeping with random humans I found off the street as well.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s a half-elf darling.¡±

    ¡°Entirely missing the point dad.¡± She scoffed, snapping away, ¡°Is he still here? Or with his job complete, has he slunk back to his real friends.¡±

    The bitterness in her voice stung, but the gryphon pressed forward, not to be phased by it. ¡°Yes, he did return to his friends, but it was to inform them of their next job opportunity.¡±

    ¡°And what would that be?¡± She asked with a sarcastic tone, ¡°Helping some kittens from trees? Defeating ancient evils, or perhaps venturing into some lost tombs. All of which he can come back, catching your ear and use you.¡±

    ¡°He wouldn¡¯t do that-¡°

    ¡°You don¡¯t think so?¡±

    His heart trembled at the thought, only to be pushed down by his true intentions to come here. ¡°I know so dearest. I can see it in his eye whenever he visits, he was positively thrilled to take the next job.¡±

    ¡°Goodie, and what does that have to do with me?¡± She yelped as he did slide to her size, nuzzling up against her with an excited trill.

    ¡°How about you and me, go to the circus!¡±

    Luna blinked, her voice coming staggard, ¡°The circus dad? I¡¯m not four anymore.¡±

    ¡°Oh, but you used to love the circus!¡± Olas wrapped a wing around her, face pressed close as he was spirited away to those youthful days, where she¡¯d chirp and cheer to see the antics of the performers on display. ¡°How you used to chirp, nip at my tail! Oh, you gave the servants quite the fright I remember!¡±

    ¡°Dad I-¡° She looked away, ears splayed.

    ¡°Dearest, I figured we would make it a father daughter day! We will laugh, smile, really enjoy ourselves.¡±

    ¡°With your boytoy there.¡±

    He chuckled away her concern, ¡°He will be our bodyguard my dear. We¡¯re nobles, people want us for our money and our bodies.¡±

    ¡°Maybe our money sure.¡±

    ¡°Speak for yourself princess.¡± He chirped, already thinking to his knight in shining armor.

    ¡°Dad, just ask him out instead of going to all these lengths to have him around. Leave me out of it.¡± Luna snapped, heaving herself away from the telescope, clearly, she was not going to get any peace.

    That wasn¡¯t what he¡¯d wanted! Chirps of concern sprung through the air as he followed in her wake, ¡°But Luna, I want to spend time with you! If I didn¡¯t would I be asking you right now?¡± He rubbed up alongside her flank in an affectionate gesture, then caressed her jaw. Though she was the spitting image of himself and her mother, it lacked the utter hate behind Isadora¡¯s gaze. ¡°Let me make it up to you? I know things have been¡­difficult-¡°

    ¡°That¡¯s an understatement.¡± She replied, pulling her head away.

    ¡°Dear, please.¡± He asked of her when she went to stride away, the tentative nature of it catching her ear. When she turned, her ears were splayed, the fierceness in those eyes faded. With a gesture he conjured a shimmering portal of light, passed its surface the past made again. There he was, proud father, cradling the tiny gryphon that would grow. He chirped and sung to her straight from his soul, never wishing to let her go.

    ¡°That¡¯s unfair.¡±

    ¡°You used to be so close to me. I just wish for that to be how it is again.¡± He brushed against her, nuzzling into her cheek. He warbled softly as she pushed back.

    ¡°Alright you win.¡± She sighed, ¡°We can go to this stupid circus. Since you insisted.¡±

    ¡°Splendid!¡± He perked up, giving her a goofy, infectious grin.

    ¡°Calm down dad, you¡¯re going to hurt yourself.¡± Laughed Luna as Olas hopped around her like a youthful gryphet, ¡°Maybe this won¡¯t be so bad.¡±

    ¡°Of course, not dear, the venture will be absolutely excellent!¡± He stretched his wings wide, feeling a song building within his chest. He opened his beak to find a wing covering it.

    ¡°Please, as nice as your singing is¡­I¡¯m much too tired for one.¡±

    ¡°Very well.¡± Cooed Olas, nuzzling into his daughter¡¯s offered wing. ¡°Would you like to look at the stars like we used to?¡±

    ¡°I would like that very much.¡±

    ** ** ** ** ** ** **

    It was late into the night that Leon returned to Featherton, bags had begun to form beneath his eyes. Draigo had carried him swiftly through the path, lit by the mana lantern he¡¯d carried. They¡¯d not spied a monster, creature or beast, the way to his gryphon benefactor was a road of safety. He¡¯d been stopped only briefly by the town¡¯s gryphon guards, their eyes filled with questions on why he, in his insanity had left the comfort of Olas¡¯ estate.

    ¡°If you only knew the half of it.¡± He¡¯d yawned as the gryphons squawked and chirped at the absurdity of it all.

    ¡°Well, as strange as this is, you can come in.¡± The lead guard had grunted, his feathers fluffed, ¡°Though you¡¯re a weird one Leon.¡±

    ¡°That I am. Now goodnight fellas, try not let a weird half-elf ruin the night.¡±

    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t. I was beating the lot of them in cards.¡±

    The stable doors had creaked open at his touch, the air stark as the rest of the night. It stunk of horse and manure as the mercenary dragged in Draigo by his reins. Quaint was the pen that they¡¯d been given, perfectly sized for one horse and a bit of room for it to wander around. In the stallion went without any fuss, trotting over to a hanging satchel of hay in the corner. With a snort Draigo began to nibble away, oblivious to the ghost of a man behind him.

    What had he done? Leon closed shut the pen¡¯s door, a pit gnawing at his insides. He¡¯d left the refined and comforting surroundings of Lord Olas, trading them for the squaller that was of a horse¡¯s pen. One of filth, stench and cold, when he could have been trapped in the warm embrace of his feathery benefactor.

    But that was it wasn¡¯t it? Muscles groaned; bones felt like lead as he dragged himself across the floor. What could have been came to him, of a night of serenity, held ever close, listening to the enchanting sound of Olas¡¯ heartbeat. Totally safe, secure, resting his cheek tenderly against those red-orange feathers.

    ¡°Oh, stop your belly aching.¡± He hissed to himself, slinging off his pack and letting it fall to the ground. His armor then coming next with a series of clangs. He¡¯d have to clean it come tomorrow, but he was far too tired. ¡°You¡¯re being a sentimental fool; this road has already been walked.¡± Blood shot eyes stared into the horse¡¯s water bowl, reflecting his scowling gaze, one filled with hate, hurt and sorrow.

    Draigo turned to snort at him, giving the man a questionable stare. His tail flicked as if to ask him why he was just standing there.

    ¡°Don¡¯t give me that look. I¡¯ve told you this before, it always ends the same. It seems good at first, but then it slaps you in the face. You¡¯re left drained, hallow, gasping for breath and hoping for death.¡± He crouched to his pack, unhooking the bedroll strapped to its base. He glared at it¡¯s worn surface; it would be a pitiful replacement for his gryphon.

    The horse¡¯s hooves shifted, bringing with it an inquisitive muzzle. He nudged at the man, staring at the bedroll as though it had any sort of answer for him.

    ¡°Come off it. What do you know?¡± Though he tried to push away his horse, Draigo nudged against him with a snort. ¡°You got your food over there, tend to that.¡±

    But the beast did not retreat, instead seemingly more concerned with him than any of its other base desires. As if to ask if they should not return to the gryphon, the night was not yet over.

    Leon groaned and rested his bedroll on the hard floor, laying himself down upon it. The horse¡¯s muzzle followed, unphased as he tried to ignore it nibbling on his ear. ¡°Could you stop?¡±

    Draigo snorted.

    ¡°You weren¡¯t there for Quintus.¡± The mere mention of that name sent shivers down the half-elf¡¯s spine, a phantom whinny catching his ear. He grabbed the horse¡¯s head, holding it against his own as dark thoughts started to fester and grow. ¡°He had me wrapped around his finger, unable to think clearly, unable to escape. Know what he did?¡±

    The horse¡¯s ears flicked expectantly.

    He pulled up his tunic and shirt to reveal off color scars that traveled along his side, ¡°I tell others those are marks from battle, some failed adventure, but they are reminders to not be stupid. He took a hook, wide as my finger and dragged it through my flesh. Punishment he¡¯d said, rewards for me forcing him to do that. If I hadn¡¯t put him down, he¡¯d have been the end of me. I¡¯d have wound up as that Ceullus¡¯ pleasure slave, doing whatever he demanded, all for the promise of another hit of his essence.¡± Leon slumped, still picturing the blood upon his hands as he¡¯d smashed that cruel horseman¡¯s face in with a block of iron. He¡¯d never been more satisfied to hear bones snap, eyes pop. ¡°I remember how I laughed, for nearly ten minutes you know.¡± He chortled grimly to himself, trying to forget the longer amount of time he¡¯d spent crying.

    As if sensing the turmoil now casting it¡¯s inky fog around him, Draigo pressed his muzzle back to Leon¡¯s face, demanding pets.

    ¡°You¡¯re needy don¡¯t you know that?¡± He received a commanding snort and swish of the tail, the horse¡¯s needs met as he began to stroke and scratch below his chin. ¡°Is this the payment I have to give for talking with you?¡±

    Draigo huffed, eyes closed.

    ¡°Figures, all the four-legged things in my life are needy bitches.¡± Leon sighed, ¡°So that¡¯s why we can¡¯t go running back to him Draigo. People like him? Rich and wielding that much power? Why would he ever have anything real for people like us? We¡¯re just a game to him, some grand fantasy that he gets to live out. The best thing we can do is enjoy the ride while it lasts, take pride in the fact I get to dick down some fluffy butt blue blooded gryphon.¡± The moment the words left his mouth he felt hallow, any semblance of joy he¡¯d had this evening draining with his next breath. ¡°No matter how you wish it would be different. The world isn¡¯t fair. Don¡¯t get attached. You¡¯ll just get hurt when he discards you after he gets his fill¡­like all the rest.¡±

    When the horse pulled back to return to his meal, Leon was left staring off into oblivion. Still the thought of those warm sheets haunted him, whispered for him to return. He shifted, the cold, hard floor ever apparent. He could have had the gryphon, clutching him tight, feeling his breath upon his neck. It was a fantasy, a fa?ade, but oh a powerful one that teased at him now. He closed his eyes and pictured their last exchange, Olas was good he had to give him that. There were moments as he was in his clutches that he felt like the gryphon cared about him, that in those brown eyes was the sea in which he wanted to get lost in. His heart would grow weak, crying out for him to say what Leon had always dreamed of.

    ¡°But that¡¯s not how the world works.¡± He whispered, shattering his comforting thought.

    Sleep did eventually take him from the realm, spirit him off to the realm of dreams. Slumber however was a cruel mistress, tormenting the mercenary while she had him. His dreams were filled with Olas, the gryphon¡¯s sinfully dominating every moment with his fluffy goodness. Every breath contained the lord¡¯s scent, drove the man wild. It was maddening, but all too comforting at the same time. How he wished reality could match moments like this.

    ** * ** * * ***

    <u> </u>

 Gilded Cage Chapter 6+7

    Chapter 6

    Sleep most tender and comforting wrapped Leon like a cloak. His calm breaths passed the time as he and Olas flew through the sky. A dream the man knew, for in reality this would be out of the question. To be that high, having to rely on someone else, it was positively unthinkable. But in this world of fantasy, he was free to experience the wind brushing his face, the lord¡¯s wonderful chirps making his own heart sing; the sun would shine on his back as they climbed ever higher, it was beautiful.

    Down below the rivers were sparkling, breaking apart the verdant green landscape of Lumara below. It rose and fell as if the world was breathing, then it gave way to the rocky peaks of the voiceless mountains, a mist settling about them as if to hide some great secret.

    The red-orange gryphon peered back; a fondness sweet as candy within those deep gingerbread eyes. It touched upon Leon¡¯s soul, had him blush. Everything was right with the world, as it should be. He smiled, honest and true, laughing such sweetness he¡¯d never in life.

    All of that shattered with an icy splash across his face.

    Eyes shot open as he gave a startled yell, his entire body soaked and dripping with what he hoped was water. Draigo was in the corner of the stable, his ears standing tall, afraid to approach the black and navy gryphon that loomed over him.

    Krantor had his dark grey beak parted into a smile, mischievous delight sparkling in his pale blues. He was holding an empty bucket in one hand, dripping the last of its payload. Anticipation of the coming moments flicked his tail, crown feathers rose one by one as the half-elf¡¯s blood turned to fire.

    ¡°Krantor!¡± Leon roared, ¡°What the fuck was that for?¡±

    ¡°Figured you needed a wakeup call. After all, you must have had a hot and crazy night with lord Olas. Did you know you moan about him in your sleep?¡±

    He scrambled to his feet, water dribbling down his trousers to pool at the stable¡¯s floor. ¡°Why the hell did you use the entire bucket?¡±

    ¡°Dad always said, give it your all. The all in this case was the bucket of water.¡±

    With a snarl he tried to snatch the gryphon¡¯s ear, only getting air as Krantor pulled back his head. ¡°I¡¯m going to kill you!¡±

    ¡°You have to catch me drippy!¡± Krantor laughed, dropping the bucket with a clang, and proceeding to bound beyond the man¡¯s grip. ¡°Think of it this way Leon, now you don¡¯t have to have a bath! Unless you wanted to smell like the Lord¡¯s cum.¡±

    ¡°Why couldn¡¯t you wake me up like a normal gryph?¡±

    ¡°You mean like the morning crowers that announce the arrival of the sun? You really want that in your ear?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s better than water! Sit bloody still!¡± With a final roar he snatched the gryphon by his feathery chest, pulling up against him to stare into his eyes.

    ¡°You¡¯re aware I¡¯m letting you hold me here, right?¡± Said Krantor, gently fluffing his feathers, ears splayed, ¡°What¡¯s the matter, can¡¯t take a joke?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not the point. Now I¡¯m all soaked.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s just water. Look lets go outside; the sun will dry you off. I¡¯m sure that¡¯s one of those blessing things that Hekate can do right? I mean, what kind of sun cleric can¡¯t have the sun dry off her buddies clothes? Alright, I can see you¡¯re not too happy about that. How about this, next time we have a whittling contest, you win!¡±

    ¡°Aright fine.¡± He sighed, ¡°I suppose it was rather funny.¡±

    ¡°Right? I knew you¡¯d come around.¡±

    He spread his arms wide, giving the gryphon a charming smile, ¡°May I have a hug?¡±

    Warbling to himself, Krantor approached with his wings wide, ready to wrap the human tight in his wings. He stopped himself with a sudden clack of his beak, realizing what was going to happen. Leon wrapped his soaked, dripping arms right around Krantor¡¯s neck, securing his hands on the other side.

    ¡°Hey! No fair! That¡¯s a dirty trick!¡± Squawked the gryphon, trying to buck and pull away, but finding Leon stitched to his feathers.

    He pressed his face into the gryphon¡¯s neck, ¡°Not fun getting wet now, is it?¡±

    ¡°This is gryphon abuse!¡± Talons grabbed hold, failing to wrench the man free. ¡°Leon, come on! I¡¯ll have to preen for an hour at least!¡±

    ¡°Sounds like a problem you should have thought of before tossing water in my fucking face!¡±

    ¡°I swear to the gods above-¡° Krantor snapped up as Leon released him, his feathers all slathered in moisture. His ears pinned, eyes narrowed, ¡°Happy now? You¡¯ve gone and soaked me.¡±

    A shit eating grin spread to the half-elf, ¡°Think of it this way, it¡¯s an opportunity asshole to go see your delightful mate. Hey, what the hell was that for?¡± The gryphon had clamped his arm hard between his beak.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to nip the shit out of you.¡±

    It was his turn to now be on the defensive, warding the gryphon away with his snatched satchel. Panting, ears pinned, Krantor eventually was left glaring at him, tail lashing back and forth.

    ¡°We done?¡± Leon asked.

    ¡°Suppose so. Don¡¯t really feel like doing a murder.¡± Replied Krantor.

    ¡°Wonderful.¡± He dropped his shield, only to get a clack of the beak that had him raise it again.

    ¡°Alright, now I¡¯m done.¡±

    Moments passed between the two, not a word being said. The only sound being that of Draigo, huffing and wondering what strange dance these two were doing. Leon composed himself as the gryphon did the same. He grabbed his armor, slipped on his pack, and redid Draigo¡¯s tack.

    ¡°Lucky for you, we got ourselves a job for tomorrow.¡± He opened the pen¡¯s gate, guiding the horse out, getting smacked in the face by Krantor¡¯s fluffy tail.

    ¡°Oh, sorry about that.¡± The gryphon snickered; his next tail flick stopped by the half-elf¡¯s hands.

    ¡°Is this going to be the rest of the day for us?¡±

    ¡°You got my feathers wet!¡±

    ¡°You soaked me first asshole.¡±

    Krantor squawked, averting his gaze, ¡°I don¡¯t see how that¡¯s relevant. What I did was a prank, you were just being mean.¡±

    ¡°Does your wife know that you¡¯re this petty?¡±

    He shrugged, giving the half-elf an amused wink, ¡°Only for you Leon, aren¡¯t you so lucky.¡± Another playful flick of the tail was diverted yet again, ¡°Guess you don¡¯t like gryphon tail.¡±

    ¡°Not yours particularly.¡± He growled, getting chirping laughter as Krantor made comments on certain gryphon tails he did enjoy.

    Out to the street they did stride, the air filled with the joyous chirps of gryphon kind. They darted too and fro through the air like a collection of leaves, lost upon the wind¡¯s carefree currents. Sunlight shined down from the bright sky, caressingly lovingly the clouds above, that stretched across the sky like a series of white snakes. The air was thick with the smell of gryphon, intermixed with dry leaves and dirt. It was a cacophony of sounds that one could lose themselves in.

    ¡°Up bright and early, never thought I¡¯d see the day.¡± Krantor sighed, eyes closed as he took a deep, feather ruffling breath, ¡°And you say with another mission? That¡¯s wonderful. Though I still have a question on the mind¡­¡± He followed on after Leon¡¯s heels, beak practically hanging off his shoulder, ¡°Why did you not stay the night in your dearest gryphon¡¯s clutches? I mean, you actually preferred the stables to the loving embrace of your sweetheart?¡±

    ¡°Shut the fuck up Krantor.¡± He snarled, shoving the gryphon¡¯s face away.

    ¡°Alright, someone is clearly in a mood. Suppose you¡¯re still cross about the water?¡±

    He didn¡¯t answer, he doubted the playful gryphon would even understand. Instead, he was forced to drag Krantor by the ear away from a cart of fresh smelling bread that had caught the catbird¡¯s attention like a moth to flame.

    ¡°Hey, what gives? I was supposed to be getting breakfast!¡± Krantor squawked in protest, as a series of gryphons carrying packages drifted overhead. ¡°Just because you struck out with your sweety doesn¡¯t mean you have to ruin my relationship.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not ruining your relationship. I have a job.¡±

    ¡°Oh, you were being serious?¡± The gryphon relaxed, pinning his wings, ¡°Olas¡¯ jobs are the best. Easy pay, practically relaxing.¡± He nudged Leon¡¯s side with a few raised brows, ¡°Plus you get to celebrate by warming his bed. That will be what, three times this month? I think he¡¯s sweet on you!¡±

    ¡°Or he¡¯s just needy as fuck.¡± Groaned Leon, rolling his eyes as the gryphon continued to chirp and trill, clearly connecting dots that were not there.

    ¡°Question, can I still get a scratch behind the ear, or no?¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t be serious.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I quite am, I have this serious itch behind the ear, can¡¯t seem to reach the spot your fingers do.¡±

    He turned, meeting Krantor¡¯s gaze, the gryphon already haven splayed his ears in a submissive manner. ¡°You splashed water on me, nipped at me, and then have the gall to ask for a scratch?¡±

    Krantor batted his eyes with a soft coo, ¡°I was hoping since we were friends, you¡¯d forgive me?¡±

    ¡°Gods, I hate you, come here you big needy bitch.¡±

    ¡°Knew you had it in you.¡±

    ¡°Just shut up and take the scratch, and quick, before anyone notices.¡± He leaned up and massaged the onyx gryphon behind his ears, making sure to pay attention to the base. For his trouble he was nuzzled, accompanied by soft warbles and trills. Around him other gryphons had taken notice, some poking their heads out of windows most expectantly. He retracted his hand before he had a whole horde of gryphons slinking over and taking advantage of these free scratches. ¡°There, are you satisfied?¡±

    Krantor strut away with a pleased chirp, shaking his head, stretching his wings, and fluffing his feathers in an elaborate routine. ¡°Always.¡± To finish it off the gryphon slipped around him, dragging himself across the man¡¯s back. His nibble of the hair was warded away with an open palm. ¡°It¡¯s a sign of affection!¡± He squawked.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s just an excuse to nibble and taste my hair!¡±

    ¡°Why can¡¯t it be both.¡±

    ¡°Just follow me and let us talk about the job.¡±

    ¡°Alright, but where are we going? Cause Hekate is going to be cross if I return to her minus the breakfast I promised.¡±

    ¡°Good, it concerns her too.¡±

    ¡°Going to tell me?¡±

    ¡°And waste my breath on the second time? I¡¯ll tell you when we see her.¡±

    The gryphon gave an exaggerated groan, offering to fly them, squawking, and hissing when the man refused. ¡°You know, for someone who spends his time with gryphons so often, you think you¡¯d like to fly.¡±

    ¡°I have my reasons.¡± He grumbled, unwilling to trust someone so completely. ¡°And you¡¯ll leave well enough alone.¡±

    ¡°Do you even know where she is?¡±

    ¡°I figure the temple of Fureen?¡±

    Krantor cursed, ¡°Lucky guess.¡±

    ¡°Not really.¡± He laughed, ¡°She¡¯s there most mornings! Preparing her spells and tending to the local gardens!¡± Nudging the gryphon only resulted in getting batted with a wing, nearly having him stumble to the ground.

    ¡°You know that wouldn¡¯t happen if we fly.¡±

    On the outskirts of town was the temple to Fureen, Goddess of the Sun. It was placed here so that the humanoid visitors would have easy access. It was a simple thing, made of wood and painted in swaths of oranges and gold. A brass statue stood outside the circular structure, of a naked woman holding her outstretched hands to the sky. Around this were pens for gardens, where gryphons and humans in orange robes of silk tended to fruits and vegetables meant to provide for the town. Here the sunlight was brightest, a warmth spreading to the air.

    ¡°See? Wonderful place.¡± Krantor chirped with pride, gesturing to the temple¡¯s oval, mosaic door.

    ¡°Yea, such wonder. All sunshine and rainbows here.¡± Leon grumbled as gryphons waved to him from the gardens bursting with flowers. Their chirps were ones of merriment and welcoming.

    Hetake was among these people, resting out back in a circle of flowers and sacks of grain. She was up upon her belly, wings slightly unfurled, soaking in the rays as she sang gently in the gryphon tongue, a melody fit for the gods. To others non versed it was like a bird¡¯s call, but it sang of harvest, good food and aided those in need.

    ¡°How goes the praying my sunflower?¡± Krantor trotted to his wife¡¯s side with a swish of his tail, passing two ladies picking tomatoes. ¡°Guess who I found?¡± His eyes gestured to Leon with a mischievous grin.

    The lavender and white gryphon opened an eye, searching upon the half-elf up and down. Her gaze narrowed upon her husband, ¡°Why are the both of you soaking wet? Did you do something needing of a paddling?¡±

    Leon groaned as the gryphon played coy, so that¡¯s what this was all about.

    ¡°Oh, and don¡¯t forget.¡± The onyx gryphon mused, opening his talon.

    She took one look between them both, laboring a great sigh, ¡°Fine you win.¡± She handed over some coin to her mate, dug out of her coinpurse.

    ¡°What was that about?¡± Asked Leon, hand on his hipsas the male gryphon chirped at his apparent victory.

    ¡°Had a bet about if you¡¯d spend the night at Olas¡¯, figure things didn¡¯t work out?¡±

    ¡°Things worked out fine. I just didn¡¯t want to spend the night at the bluebloods was all.¡±

    ¡°Blueblood to go along with his blue balls.¡± Krantor shook his head, ¡°I think he just likes sleeping with his horse instead.¡± He squawked as a lavender wing was batted across his head, ¡°Hey!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure Leon had his reasons dear! Right Leon?¡±

    Leon nodded.

    ¡°Besides, I¡¯m sure he and the handsome lord took care of that particular problem."

    Leon blushed, shaking his head as the female gryphon laughed with a salacious tongue, ¡°He actually wanted us for another job.¡±

    Ears perked, crown feathers raising one by one. ¡°Oh my gosh, three times in a single month! I think he¡¯s warming to you!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I said!¡± Krantor said, nuzzling up against his mate¡¯s side. ¡°See, we even think alike!¡±

    Groaning, Leon had to silence their chirping laughter, ¡°He wants to take his daughter to the circus-¡°

    The female leaped up, interrupting him as she bounced her paws, trilling, and warbling. ¡°We¡¯re going to the circus! Ooooo Krantor! I haven¡¯t been to the circus since I was a little gryphet!¡±

    Krantor brushed up against his mate, nibbling at her feathers with an amused swish of the tail. ¡°I figure it¡¯s not just being paid to go the circus?¡±

    Leon groaned, now being given the chance to speak, ¡°No, he wants us to be their bodyguards.¡±

    ¡°Wait.¡± Hekate planted her hinds, talon on her beak, ¡°Isn¡¯t he a powerful magician?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°With his talents that could put us to shame?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Leon groaned as Krantor¡¯s beak parted with a grin, caught his eye.

    ¡°Leon you¡¯re going to be that gryphon¡¯s eye candy!¡±

    He grit his teeth and bore the gryphon¡¯s coming laugher, ¡°That¡¯s certainly not it.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡±

    ¡°He might be a powerful wizard sure, but he wants a day off with his daughter. Not so that I can be eye candy. I imagine he wants a carefree day so that he doesn¡¯t have to lift a finger. You know his type.¡±

    Both the gryphons nodded with a chirp, but their expressions told they didn¡¯t believe the man.

    ¡°Whatever you say Leon.¡± Sang Hekate, rubbing up alongside him, ¡°But I think Olas¡¯ has a crush on you.¡±

    ** ** ** ** ** **

    Olas paced outside upon his lawn in the morning sun, right before his stables, listening to the distant chirps of the birds. The day between he and Leon¡¯s parting had all but flown by, loosed itself to the sky to parts unknown. What should have been a dreary day of regularity was instead one of whimsy and a blissful fog. The gryphon had strut around, humming to himself, picturing the day in all its coming wonder. He¡¯d sing and enthrall his daughter, she looking to him as she¡¯d always done. The thought warmed his heart, made his paws bounce, not to mention having his favorite mercenary on his wing was an added bonus.

    Leon, oh his dearest Leon. The mere picture of his knight in shining armor made the gryphon¡¯s heart weak. That night he¡¯d spent reclined on his bed, debating to contact the man and spend hours talking his ears right off. No, he¡¯d sighed, not wishing to give the mercenary the impression that he couldn¡¯t spend a day without him! He was a powerful magician that had control of his emotional outbursts! Yet he stared, tapping his talons against his forelimbs, dying to hold the man in his embrace, to feel his warmth against him. The smell, the way he took in each breath, oh Olas could drift away to such delightful thoughts. It was only by the saving grace of securing one of his pillows that kept him from contacting the mercenary and demanding that he come cast away the loneliness that had stricken him.

    Now he was dressed as a commoner gryphon might have been, with his fanciful gear replaced with mere bits of cloth. Browns and almond were wrapped around his forelimbs and hinds, accompanying a multicolored scarf that rested around his neck, drifting in the wind like some rainbow snake. Though his feathers and fur were preened and groomed, he lacked the usual perfumes that he typically applied to himself. Today he would be just like everyone else, albeit with magical powers. Anticipation settled into his talons, twisting through his feathers, tugging at the mind, making every breath he took seem like hours.

    Where was he? His ears flicked as he traversed the field around his estate. Leon had said he was on his way via the bracer but still Olas held his breath over if he¡¯d actually come. He¡¯d peer to the path that led to his home, expectant to see the careful trotting of the man¡¯s horse, catch sight of his vigilant gaze. Oh, to see it linger on his feathers, tracing every curve and fluff as if to commit to memory. Olas warbled softly, spreading his hinds and fluffing his tail feathers, picturing the half-elf being drawn to several particular areas of him. Why wasn¡¯t he here? Olas gave a squawk of frustration, lashing his tail.

    He peered to his home, more specifically the window where his daughter¡¯s quarters did lay. It was going to be ok he told himself, it didn¡¯t matter if Leon was here yet, Luna herself was still getting ready. A sigh of relief passed through his beak as he pictured Olivia stroking the gryphoness¡¯ fur, getting a hiss and clacking of the beak in return.

    ¡°What are you looking at?¡± He asked to his horses, each of the percheon¡¯s staring at him with flicking tails. ¡°You¡¯ve already been fed this morning! Do you know something I don¡¯t?¡±

    One of the horses snorted at him, the others whinnied. They clearly wanted to play.

    ¡°Oh, you only care about yourselves, so selfish! I won¡¯t have you doubt Leon like that either, he will be here, he said it himself!¡± He huffed and turned away from such selfish beasts, planting his haunches on the soft grass. The morning breeze tickled his belly, almost dulling the sharpness of the screech directed at him.

    ¡°What in the nine hells are you dressed in Olas?¡± Red eyes travelled all over his form, from his hinds to the scarf around his neck. Isadora came trotting over from the house. ¡°Not a hint of nobility on you, have you gone mad?¡± The female gryphon was clad in leather leggings with gold stitching, elegant design of course and adorned with a multitude of runes. Rings of dwarven design adorned the base of her tail, matching the anklets that were wrapped lovingly around her forelimbs. As she approached her necklace twinkled in the sunlight, a thing made of silver beads that trickled down her feathers like a river. She was the example of privilege and wealth, if only her attire matched her blackened heart.

    ¡°You look like one of the bloody commoners.¡± She squawked, approaching with her beak raised as if one might have smelled a skunk, ¡°Of all the ridiculous things that you¡¯ve done. I¡¯m amazed you find ways to astound me.¡±

    ¡°That was the idea, Isadora.¡± He scowled, keeping his eyes not on her but the road. His tail flicked as she strode around him, ¡°The circus was supposed to be a way of indulging in the things the commoners enjoyed.¡±

    ¡°The poor?¡± She gagged, wings fluffing, ¡°I suppose if you can stand that wretched half-elf of yours, the stench of the unwashed masses must be bearable for you.¡±

    ¡°Leon isn¡¯t wretched, I¡¯d refrain from uttering such untruths.¡±

    ¡°Sorry my dearest husband. I¡¯ll try not to insult the whore that you drag around and fuck. How fitting of one of your stature.¡±If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.

    To that he reared up, ears pinned and giving the gryphoness a sharp keening squawk. He knew by the wretched delight in her eye it was just what she¡¯d set out to do, get under his feathers.

    ¡°You misplace your protection husband. The cock that you love thrust up that tail of yours is merely using you. Why else would he want a piece of boring, pathetic trash like yourself?¡±

    ¡°Just cut to the point Isadora. I don¡¯t request you stick around, yet here you are.¡±

    ¡°Because I enjoy tormenting you.¡± She rumbled, fluffing up her feathers, ¡°To pick and pull upon the thread of which you don¡¯t wish to see. The one that has that common¡­pig suckling upon your grotesque cock for favors and gifts. The fact you can¡¯t see that is sad in a way. Suppose it¡¯s only fitting.¡±

    Wings flared in a threatening display as he dug into the ground below with his talons. He followed her as she rounded, clacking his beak in warning when she drew too close. Of course, she cackled to this, loving every moment that his blood flared to life, burning at her very presence. ¡°I¡¯d feel bad if I hurt you Isadora, but I know I didn¡¯t. The only thing that mattered about our marriage is up there in that tower. So, snap shut that beak and get out of here, go tend to whatever catches your fancy.¡±

    Eyes flickered with cruel delight, ¡°Of course I will Olas, you think I would rest around, weeping while you get your diseased fuck boy to hump your backside?¡± She scoffed at the notion, ¡°I¡¯m off to spend the day with the Grimfeather flight, I¡¯ll be on the wing of a certain Dust Grimfeather, I believe you know of him?¡±

    Olas averted his gaze, ¡°I know that as a magician he will always be second rate.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s anything but. He¡¯s hot, capable, determined, takes what he wants, knows how to truly treat a gryphoness on his talon. ¡°With a brassy voice she went on to describe other areas of which he was superior, ¡°And of course he has a better cock then you.¡±

    ¡°Of that I seriously doubt. I expect to not hold my breath for your return?¡±

    ¡°Oh no, we¡¯re going to be out late. I might just spend the night. So, feel free to fuck your little plaything to your hearts content.¡± She leaned in, eyes gleaming, ¡°Just know that Dust will be mounting my lovely haunches and giving my pussy the fucking that a proper male should.¡±

    He sighed, like that was supposed to get under his fur, ¡°Have fun darling then. Do give Dust my best regards, for clearly, he is a stronger gryphon than I gave him credit for. He, unlike myself can handle the contemptible shrew that you¡¯ve always been.¡± He caught her rebuttal with a spell, a sudden snap of her talons going for his face.

    ¡°Oh, I will have my fun, you pathetic sack of feathers.¡± She pulled back, giving him a look that could kill, ¡°Have fun continuing your journey on being an embarrassment. I¡¯ll take solace that in the end you¡¯ll realize how empty your half-elf will make you. I¡¯ll throw my head back and laugh when he takes advantage of you, showing just what I suspect he is.¡± With a final chirp she spread her wings, pouncing into the sky. She spiraled up towards the treetops.

    Damn that female. Silence gripped Olas as he watched her depart, almost expecting the gryphoness to return, talons going for his throat. Thankfully she didn¡¯t, but her words tugged at his heart. He was left trembling, looking at his own hands, whispering that she was wrong. Though every time he said the words they were hallow, gnawing at his gut. Leon would never do that, he was different, unlike everyone else in his life he asked for nothing but the gryphon¡¯s attentions. Thankfully the dark cloud of doubt that had him trapped was parted by the shape of a half-elf riding his horse gloriously up the path.

    Leon was atop Draigo, like the knight in shining armor that Olas knew him to be. A helmet upon his head of black and white, golden feathers on either side of it like the rays of the sun. He held the reins of his horse like that of a commander, a cape fluttering in the wind. Above him his two gryphons danced upon the air, chirping and chasing one another to an unsaid song.

    All at once what despair that had gripped Olas had departed, his heart skipping a beat as he beheld the coming hero. He was struck, unable to speak, his ears peaked tall. With a resounding, warm trill he leaped to all fours and bounded towards the group. ¡°Leon!¡± He shouted, ¡°How delightful of you to arrive so promptly!¡± He stopped short of the half-elf¡¯s horse, forcing the man to control it from rearing. ¡°And you¡¯ve brought your little gryphon friends as well!¡±

    ¡°Not so little your nobleness.¡± Hekate landed with a chirp, pinning her wings before giving Olas a bow. ¡°But we arrive, prepared to defend you and your daughter.¡±

    ¡°We spent all yesterday getting supplies!¡± Krantor puffed up his chest, gesturing to the rows upon rows of potions that were bound and secured on his harness¡¯ side. ¡°Healing potions, antidotes, blessings, can¡¯t go wrong with holy water. Then I got some iron tablets, blessed of course, and-¡°

    ¡°I¡¯m sure the lord need not be dragged down by the details darling.¡±

    His ears splayed as he gave a nervous chuckle, ¡°Of course.¡±

    But Olas had not eyes for their little antics, his attention had not shifted from the man atop his horse. He maneuvered so that the half-elf could get a good look at him, enjoying that when he did, Leon followed perfectly. ¡°What¡¯s the matter my Leo, gryphon caught your tongue?¡±

    ¡°I take it you¡¯re ready?¡± Leon replied firmly, eyes following the gryphon as Olas maneuvered around them, ¡°You look rather plain.¡±

    ¡°So, you noticed! Isn¡¯t it neat! I had the wonderful idea today to be one of the gang! Blend in with you and the common folk!¡±

    ¡°One of the gang that pays us to protect him?¡±

    ¡°Of course! The circus can be a dangerous place my knight. I hope we won¡¯t need you to protect my precious behind.¡± He strut a few paces, flicking his tail feathers swiftly up to flash his ass to the darling warrior. He warbled softly to himself as Leon hadn¡¯t looked away but was blushing. Quick as a flash he was at the man¡¯s side, wing brushing against his jaw, that was until he was pushed away.

    ¡°Look Olas, we¡¯re here on business. We¡­I¡¯m not here to satisfy your perverted bird needs alright? We¡¯re just here to make sure you and Luna have a happy daddy daughter time. So don¡¯t try and go fucking me in that circus alright?¡±

    Olas could only grin to that commanding demand, seeing how worked up Leon had gotten. He placed a wing gently to his nose, ¡°You are cute when you are serious.¡±  Leon¡¯s ever reddening cheeks and nervous gulp were ever so delightful.

    ¡°Where is your daughter your nobleness?¡± Krantor strolled to the field, gazing up across the estate, ¡°I don¡¯t see her. Has she changed her mind? Can¡¯t have daddy daughter time without her!¡± He shook his head and laughed, ¡°Unless this was the plan all al-¡°

    ¡°Getting ready actually!¡± He practically sang, bouncing upon his paws to the black gryphon¡¯s side. He gestured to his home, making sure that Leon got a good flash of his balls. ¡°You know how females can be, taking forever to get ready.¡±

    ¡°Or thirsty male gryphons.¡± Grumbled Leon, arms crossed.

    ¡°What was that my dearest?¡±

    ¡°Nothing.¡±

    ¡°Oh, but what do you think?¡± Up went his wings as he gently wheeled around. Beak up, wings spread, he captured Leon¡¯s gaze and had it travel along every inch of him. He bowed as Hekate clapped for him.

    ¡°You look like a common gryphon.¡± Leon sneered.

    ¡°Then the illusion is a rousing success!¡±

    Hekate gave the lord a happy chirp, ¡°I didn¡¯t know you were such a fan of the circus.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a long story¡­Hemakte was it?¡±

    ¡°Hetake actual-¡°

    ¡°You see, father took me there but when I was a small gryphet. Oh, how the acts and flights of fancy warmed my soul. Whenever I was troubled it was there we would go. Why not capture that glimmer of delight with my daughter-¡° He batted his eyes at Leon, ¡°And my favorite little half-elf.¡±

    As the gryphons talked of flying over to the circus proper, and how it would take quite some time, Olas strode to Leon¡¯s side and put all their collective minds at ease. The gryphon rolled a talon to his chest, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about the arrangements, all of you. I can deliver us all to the circus with but a spell from my talons!¡±

    There was a moment of silence as they stood in awe at his suggestion.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you meet us in the town then?¡± Hekate cocked her head, ¡°Would have saved us loads of trouble.¡±

    ¡°Not to mention waiting for Leon¡¯s horse here to canter to your place.¡± Grumbled Krantor.

    Leon could only roll his eyes, guiding Draigo over to the lord¡¯s stables to deposit his horse for the day. His grumbling and posturing were put to an end when Luna had descended among them, sharing in Olas¡¯ look of commonality.

    Her feathers were neat, ears pinned back. Onyx and grey clothing were draped around her neck in crisscross patterns. Forelimbs and her hinds were shoved into stockings, their colors alternating bands of red and black. To Leon and his associates, she scoffed and paid little mind, instead striding to her father¡¯s side and running her flank down the length of him.

    ¡°Ready are you darling?¡± He asked with a coo, returning the gesture with a flicking tail.

    ¡°More ready than I¡¯ll ever be. Let¡¯s just hope this circus is not some run down affair.¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re followers of Glenreich, the goddess of wealth and trade; so, I imagine they are pushing more profit. What could more profitable than an outstanding circus!¡±

    ¡°Your optimism surprises me dad.¡±

    With Leon¡¯s horse deposited and the others ready to go, Olas began his deep chanting with a fluff of his feathers. Rearing up he swished his hands, swaying back and forth as magic swelled all around him. The air pulsed and teased at the senses, making hair stand on edge. He cleaved a hole straight through existence, dragging himself and the others with him. One blink and they were gone, leaving not a trace but a confused Draigo, staring at where they¡¯d been.

    ** * * * * * * *

    <u>Chapter 7</u>

    They popped into existence as Leon coughed, his whole head spinning from their magical journey. His first few steps were blurred as he tried to maintain his focus, failing and collapsing onto all fours in the middle of a grassy field.

    ¡°Now careful now, first time magical transportation can be quite the experience! Leon are you alright? Oh, heavens you look like you¡¯re ready to hurl.¡±

    ¡°Too late.¡± Krantor groaned, collapsing to his belly at Leon¡¯s side.

    He hoped he didn¡¯t have to get used to this on a regular basis. The mercenary swallowed down the bile building in his throat, shaking his head and righting what senses had been robbed of him. Taking deep breaths, he was inundated with the smell of horse, sweat, gryphon and even that of dog. This was the circus? Standing to his feet, he rested a hand on Hekate¡¯s trembling shoulder as he took in the sights.

    They were before the entrance to the circus grounds, a gaudy affair with bright, multicolored banners on display. Upon them were smiling halflings, some winking, with crudely drawn men and woman laughing away at some unseen antic. Tents had been risen that rivaled the tallest trees in all the land, made of dull brown cloth, matching Lumara¡¯s colors. Around them the atmosphere was rich with sound, a symphony of gryphons chirping, workers calling to one another, and the masses laughing and enjoying themselves only a short distance away.

    Lines of commoners had already begun to form, of gryphons and humans in plain attire. They would shuffle along to three wooden booths, where the halflings were greeting them and selling tickets of entry. For a moment there was a concern that the gryphons would simply fly in and ignore the booths, but a group of the catbirds flew overhead, keeping a vigilant eye to make sure such a thing didn¡¯t occur.

    While Leon released his gryphon friend to better compose himself, another deep breath ensured he was back to tip top shape. He fought off the smile that threatened to come to him, even if he loved the circus, today was supposed to be one of business. To Olas he looked, the gryphon had his beak open, eyes practically shimmering in the sunlight.

    ¡°My word, Luna look, it¡¯s as marvelous as I remember. Do you see the rides? Hear the games?¡± Olas padded a few steps, bouncing on his paws as he circled his daughter, ¡°I wonder if they have that one with the moving dragons, where you loose arrows at the moving targets?¡±

    ¡°You like those sort of things father?¡± Luna scoffed with a playful bat of her wing, ¡°You can literally bend the world to your whims with your magic and you find amusement in mundane things?¡±

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s marvelous dear. Quaint in a way to get things done without magical assistance, take for instance this good man!¡± He gestured to a loosely dressed man, a beard all the way down to his blue robe bottoms. The man was performing sleight of hand for the waiting guests, of course to distract them from a sign that clearly stated there would be a fee for waiting in line. ¡°He has absolutely no talent for the magical arts yet look at him.¡± He gestured to a wing as the man seemed to multiply puff balls in his hands or pull them from wherever he wanted. This of course dazzled the children watching, but it had the lord laughing. ¡°How does he do it?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I want to know. I could hardly see the trick!¡± Krantor leaped off with a resounding chirp, his wife fresh on his hinds.

    ¡°Dear not again!¡± Hekate shouted.

    ¡°He has to tell me how to do it!¡±

    ¡°Some friends you got there Leon.¡± Olas¡¯ chirp drew the mercenary¡¯s eye. The gryphon had already started padding his way to the entrance, where three minotaur guard¡¯s stood at attention with their arms crossed.

    ¡°Olas wait!¡± He grit his teeth and chased after the absent minded lord, ¡°You¡¯re forgetting to get a ticket!¡±

    ¡°Ticket? Oh Leon, we don¡¯t wait in line to get tickets! This entire event was made possible because of me. Come, we shall enter.¡± He strode with purpose, pulling his head back with a surprised squawk as the trio of minotaur placed themselves before him with what appeared to be a practiced ability to lash their tails and huff all in unison.

    ¡°Going somewhere gryphon?¡± The lead minotaur growled, a muscular, scared fellow with black fur. As he levied a steeled glare to the lord, he shook his head, his braided beard flopping to and fro.

    ¡°Yes, the circus behind you?¡± Olas chuckled, ¡°Would we be going anywhere else?¡±

    ¡°Apologies, I did mention that he needed to get a ticket.¡± Leon took control, bringing all eyes to him. ¡°We¡¯ll be sure to correct that. No need to get into a fight over it.¡±

    ¡°Fight over it?¡± Olas laughed, ¡°There would be no contest.¡±

    ¡°Want to bet that little gryphon?¡± The leader huffed, ¡°We were quite well known in the motherland for our combat prowess. No ticket, no entry.¡±

    ¡°That is where you¡¯re wrong.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I love it when we get an entitled blather mouth.¡± He cracked his knuckles with a pleased grin, ¡°Really gets the blood flowing, ready boys? Hope you had a light breakfast; cause you¡¯re going on a hard trip to the- ¡°

    As Leon hurled himself between the group and Olas, a halfling with large mutton chops dove by his side, face red as a tomato.

    ¡°What in the nine hells are you doing?¡± The little man was sweating, dressed in layers of fine crimson silk and fur.

    ¡°Watching the entrance, what¡¯s it look like?¡± Sneered the muscular bull, ¡°This here gryphon was trying to get in without a ticket.¡±

    ¡°And you told us, no ticket no entry.¡± Said another of the minotaur. ¡°And should that happen, we could honorably throw them out.¡±

    The halfling gulped, placing his hands together, ¡°That¡¯s all good and wonderful you three, but can¡¯t you see whom you almost threw out of here?¡±

    There was an air of confusion as the trio cocked their heads, stroking their beards as if the gryphons visage rang some bells. In the end they were left shaking their heads.

    ¡°You stand before Olas Mysticfeather, the one being that gave you permission to have your little circus in the first place.¡± Olas extended his wings with a squawk, dragging in his mortified daughter and the groaning half-elf. ¡°I came to have a most pleasing day with my daughter and my bodyguard- ¡°He caught sight of Krantor, currently shaking the magician to teach him his secret about hiding doves up his sleeve. ¡°Sadly, those two as well.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll forgive my associates for their eagerness to do a good job.¡± Laughed the halfling, giving the lord a nervous smile, ¡°Of course you can go in without a ticket, it would be insane to think otherwise.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it my good man. Just send my regards to Sparklebottom for putting on this delightful circus for us.¡±

    With a nod and final apology from the halfling, Leon and the others were allowed entry with nary a fuss. The man could only sigh as his employer chirped and hummed to himself, battering his red-orange tuft tail against his side. The frequency of it had Leon falling a few paces back, to avoid the playful game that he¡¯d inadvertently found himself in.

    Around them was a lively fairground, with races of all sorts meandering about to find enjoyment in the attractions that could be found. One among these was target practice with crossbows, the bolts having been blunted down, the targets taking the form in crude wooden pictures of golden dragons. Up and around the dragons would shift, being controlled by a halfling with a crank. They had ax throwing, tossing wooden rings onto the tops of bottles, tests of strength involving mallets and bells, and even an arm-wrestling competition with a traveling Ilbir. The muscled, snow leopard like man grinned with his sabretooth teeth, eyeing any of the men who wandered by, challenging them to try and win against him to impress their partners.

    ¡°So how are we going to go about doing this?¡± Krantor had returned to Leon¡¯s side.

    ¡°Did you kill the old man?¡± Asked Leon, as Olas had proceeded to stop, his ears perking as he surveyed all the games he and his daughter might enjoy. Currently she was chirping to him about how he¡¯d insisted on dressing like a commoner but had tossed his weight around the first chance he got.

    ¡°Come now daughter.¡± Olas chortled, ¡°Go to the circus just to wait in line? That does seem ever so dull and boring. Now instead feast your eyes on all these attractions!¡±

    Krantor sighed, clenching his talons, ¡°The old man was tight lipped on his trick.¡±

    ¡°He means to say that I stopped him from making a big mistake.¡± Hekate chimed in, earning her a clack of her husband¡¯s beak in her face. ¡°Oh, don¡¯t give me that, you were frightening the man to death!¡±

    ¡°He should be complimented that I enjoyed his trick. From one magician to the other, I always like to learn new things.¡±

    ¡°Card tricks are lame Krantor.¡± Leon scoffed, padding along as Olas began his sauntering again, blushing as the gryphon proceeded to flash him a few more times for good measure, gods damn him.

    ¡°How can you say that?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re currently protecting a gryphon who can throw fireballs from his hands and teleport us from location to location on a whim. Yet here you are, hoping I¡¯m impressed because you found my card? Please.¡±

    The gryphon gave an indignant squawk, his narrowed gaze only softened as his mate chuckled and nuzzled up along his ruffled chest. His ears splayed as he pressed back into her, ¡°Hekate, I¡¯m trying to be angry. Did you hear what he just said?¡±

    ¡°I did. But what does he know?¡± She flashed Leon a beak parted smirk, ¡°I¡¯ve always found you magical with your hands.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Cooed her mate.

    ¡°Alright you two break it up.¡± Leon grumbled, padding the energy crossbow at his shoulder, ¡°Before you two start having at each other, why don¡¯t you go wander around, look at all the animals and stuff? I can watch daddy and daughter without you.¡±

    Both gryphons exchanged a queer look, cocking their heads as if he¡¯d grown an extra eye.

    ¡°Are you sure about that?¡± Krantor asked, ¡°I¡¯m not sure if you realize this, but more of us means the lord is safer.¡±

    ¡°Look, do you want alone time with your woman or not Krantor?¡± Sneered Leon, half heartily batting away Hetake as she leaned up against him, giggling.

    ¡°I think he just wants alone time with our benefactor.¡± The lavender gryphon batted her eyes at him, ¡°Have you noticed he¡¯s flirting with you?¡±

    ¡°Since when is having me check him out and getting balls flashed considered flirting?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s been flashing you?¡± Krantor gasped, ¡°Since when?¡±

    Unwilling to go into lengths further about the entire situation, Leon just gestured to a random direction of the circus, his voice dull. ¡°Just go you two. Before I change my mind.¡±

    They thanked him with joyous chirps and warbles, both gryphons soon rubbing up against him.

    ¡°Have fun with the lord.¡± Hekate said as she and Krantor strolled off together, nudging against one another.

    ¡°I won¡¯t!¡± Leon shouted after them with ever reddening cheeks, of course they tossed back their heads in laughter, clearly not believing his intentions. Why did he put up with those two? ¡°Right, cause they¡¯re your closest things to friends.¡± He groaned to himself, now remembering the rich blooded gryphon that was currently employing him. Thankfully the pampered boy hadn¡¯t gotten that far from him, merely trying his talons at hurling balls at a trio of stacked up bottles.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t this a fun little game?¡± Olas giggled to himself, entirely missing the target as he hurled a palm sized ball of leather. The halfling runner of the game merely mocked groaned, offering the lord another try.

    ¡°I suppose so.¡± Luna remarked, rearing up to take her turn.

    ¡°Miss anything fun?¡± Leon said with a grunt, his eyes traveling about the crowds of townsfolk. He spied several wolven and elves among them, not typical travelers to these parts, but not entirely suspicious on its own right.

    ¡°Just this little delightful game.¡± Olas mused, gesturing to a smattering of stuffed animals hanging by thin chords that adorned this game¡¯s booth. They were cute little things, stitched together to resemble various animals. ¡°She wanted one of those unicorn ones.¡±

    ¡°Could you not make them with your magic?¡± Scoffed Leon, as Luna missed her hurl of the ball.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry darling you¡¯ll get it.¡±

    ¡°And Olas, why even play the game?¡± He whispered, ¡°Just use your magic and knock them down.¡±

    ¡°But where is the challenge in that Leo?¡± Olas was soon around him, face against his own. ¡°I thought as an adventurer you¡¯d understand.¡±

    With a breath the lord was in him as well, his blood warming at his mere proximity. With a halfhearted shove he pushed him away, ¡°Just seems like a waste of time.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t play games Leo?¡±

    ¡°Sure, feats of strength, skill, agility, hunting.¡± He gestured as Luna hurled another ball, nicking a bottle but not knocking them down.

    ¡°But you¡¯re trying to hit a target, does not that qualify?¡±

    ¡°I suppose.¡± He sighed, averting his gaze.

    ¡°Oh, I know, why don¡¯t you try it?¡±

    ¡°Me? Come on, this is supposed to be time with your daughter.¡±

    ¡°But it is. Look at her, having fun dear?¡±

    Luna rolled her eyes, unable to hide her smirk when she loosed her final ball. It sailed right into the bottles with resounding success, collapsing them to the grass to the sound of her joyous chirping. ¡°I did it, I did it!¡± She leaped around as the halfling running the booth groaned.

    ¡°See? Fun. So how about it.¡± Olas grabbed a trio of the leather balls, presenting them to Leon with a seductive chuckle, ¡°I know how good you are at handling balls Leo¡­¡±

    ¡°Give me those.¡± He snapped, snatching the balls, and pushing past the teasing catbird.

    ¡°Step right up sir, try to knock down the bottles and win a thing.¡± The halfling behind the booth said with all the enthusiasm of a stone. ¡°Only one silver.¡±

    He dug through his coinpurse, passing the silver coin across the table to the tooth smiling man. As he stared to the dull bottles, it didn¡¯t seem that hard when he thought about it. The mercenary rolled one of the balls in his palm, already feeling the watchful eye of Olas upon him. Why was something so trivial, feeling ever more important? Up to the stuffed animals his eyes were drawn, was it the need to win something for Olas, to impress him? Bah, that couldn¡¯t be it. He shook his head, burying the thoughts and instead focusing on the bottles.  This sort of thing he did all the time, just with different weapons, and his targets were often alive. With a breath Leon pulled back, letting fly his projectile. It struck dead center of the bottles with a dull thump; he grinned as it was obviously going to be a win. Pride however soon stumbled and collapsed as the ball deflected, the bottles unmoved.

    ¡°Too bad sir, they didn¡¯t get knocked down.¡± The halfling mused, checking out his fingernails. ¡°Unfortunate.¡±

    ¡°My word, that was wasn¡¯t it.¡± Olas said, planting himself at Leon¡¯s side, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, my Leo will get it next time.¡± The gryphon¡¯s chest filled with pride, ¡°He has quite the accuracy don¡¯t you know. He¡¯s displayed it many times.¡±

    ¡°I had it on target the first time.¡± Replied Leon, eyes narrowed and hard. There was clearly a trick about this little game, but the halfling remained calm, cool, unphased by the daggers being stared into him.

    ¡°Then you won¡¯t have a hard time doing it again.¡± The halfling gestured to the bottles, ¡°Your friend already won.¡±

    ¡°And I can come pick it up later?¡± Luna chirped, eying one of the stuffed unicorns.

    ¡°Anything for the daughter of our benefactor.¡± Bowed the halfling, ¡°I¡¯m delighted you wished to play my game.¡±

    There wasn¡¯t anything of a game about it. Leon gripped tight the next ball, suspecting that this halfling was letting the gryphoness win somehow, just to stay in the good graces of her and her father. To validate his suspicions he loosed another ball, it performing just as well as the previous one. The third one fared no better. The halfling¡¯s smug little face did little to sooth the pride at revealing this charade.

    ¡°Guess you¡¯re not as good as you think sir. Another silver?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re nothing but a charlatan.¡± He growled, about to let loose a scathing round of insults before Olas¡¯ talon on his shoulder brought it swiftly to an end.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I see what¡¯s going on.¡± Olas whispered in Leon¡¯s ear, ¡°Buy another round and we¡¯ll show this man to not cheat my darling Leo of what should have been a victory.¡±

    Now that he could hop on board with. Leon fished into his coinpurse and procured another silver, handing it to the smug halfling with a smirk of his own. Three more balls were handed to him, of which he lined up to hurl another, they didn¡¯t feel any different. Questioningly he searched Olas, but the gryphon was whispering something to himself, staring off to the sky. The half-elf¡¯s eyes widened, a spell. Which one though? He chuckled and rolled the ball in his palm.

    ¡°You going to play sir, or stand their fondling my balls?¡± The halfling asked.

    Pulling back with a grin he hurled his ball like all the previous times. It sailed through the air with a thunderous crack, leaving a plume of smoke drifting upon the air like a winding snake. In the blink of an eye, it slammed into the bottles with the force of a giant, they shattered into thousands of little fragments, hurled in every which way. It continued onward in its untiring course, tearing straight through the halfling¡¯s booth. It struck legs, bounced against chests, startled horses, and brought a serenade of shrieks, shouts, and whinnies.

    Leon winced with every sound as the halfling merely looked on, dumbfounded at what had transpired. Luna of course had chirped with delight for him, Olas was over the moon.

    ¡°What a wonderful display!¡± He chuckled to the stunned charlatan, ¡°It would appear as though my bodyguard has thrashed your game!¡±

    ¡°He was your bodyguard?¡± The halfling stumbled through his words, a look of abject horror coming to his face as he¡¯d apparently not made the connection.

    ¡°Of course, he is, what did you think he was? A wandering minstrel perhaps?¡±

    ¡°I actually do know how to play the lute.¡± Leon mentioned softly as the halfling shook his head, most likely wondering if he¡¯d have his job come morning.

    ¡°You do?¡± Olas snapped to him, his wings flaring outward. Unfortunately for the gryphon, in his lack of awareness, his wings smacked into a group passing by, knocking their drinks straight out of their greedy hands.

    The group shouted and cursed, ale dripping from their tunics and trousers. Red-faced, they were made up of mostly burly humans, with their apparent leader being a half-orc that stood a head taller than the rest. It was he that set his red eyes upon the gryphon that had done such an infraction. He marched straight up to Olas, grabbing the gryphon by the cuff of his neck.

    ¡°Watch were you¡¯re going you feathery slut, you knocked all the drink from me and lad¡¯s hands.¡± Spat the half-orc, the veins of his arms standing out.

    ¡°Oh my, aren¡¯t you a strong one.¡± Mused Olas with a coo, tapping the muscular man¡¯s chest with a talon.

    Without a second thought, Leon grabbed firm the man¡¯s wrist. Sure, he was at least a foot or two taller than he was, but that wasn¡¯t the point. His voice was calm and stern, ¡°Unhand the gryphon, spilling your fucking drinks was clearly an accident.¡±

    Daggers came from the half-orc¡¯s gaze, ¡°Look human, I have no problem with you. Step away before you hurt yourself. Me and the lads here have business to settle with this feathery asshole.¡± As he sneered the others cracked their knuckles, delight flickering in each of their eyes.

    How typical, could he not go to a festival or new town without running into their type? Leon would not be swayed, ¡°That¡¯s not going to happen. Harm one feather on his head and I¡¯m going to introduce you and your friends to the ground.¡±

    ¡°Pff, a small thing like you?¡± The half-orc chuckled, before suddenly springing forth with a fist to Leon¡¯s nose. ¡°You¡¯ll get taught a lesson as well!¡±

    In one solid move, Leon side stepped the drunken swing of the overconfident man. Out he pulled his electric rod, unleashing it with a press of the rune. It jabbed into the half-orc¡¯s chest in the blink of an eye, crackling with power. With a grunt of pain, the drunkard was sent flying, tumbling to the ground a few meters away. His associates were left standing in shock.

    ¡°Anyone else want to try and have a go at myself or my gryphon?¡± Leon challenged with a gaze sharper than a gryphon¡¯s talons. When he got no response save shakes of their heads he gestured and barked with a commanding tone, ¡°Then get out of here and clean your friend up. Lucky for him he didn¡¯t wind up dead.¡±

    As he dusted off his hands, the drunken men gathered up their mumbling friend; they disappeared into the crowds, assuring him that he was going to be fine. He sighed as Olas slid to his side with a raising of his crown feathers, delight every shimmering in his gingerbread eyes. There was mischief on his beak as feathers and fur ran across the man¡¯s armor.

    ¡°That was rather thrilling seeing you on the prowl Leo. How you whipped out the Shaft of Qo. They¡¯ll never forget the shocking experience you¡¯ve given them.¡± A talon flicked out to stroke along the man¡¯s neck, a hunger ever apparent in the flick of his tail. ¡°Watching you protect me in such a manner? It got all the blood pumping in all the right ways dear.¡±

    He groaned and shoved away the thirsty gryphon, making sure the ruffians and their friend didn¡¯t return. ¡°Clamp tight your beak bitch, I¡¯m working.¡±

    They were pulled back from their intimate game by Luna¡¯s indignant squawk. She swung around her father and whipped his haunches with her tail, enough to make the lord gryphon leap up with a surprised yelp. ¡°Both of you go get a tavern or something.¡±

    ¡°Listen Loony, I¡¯m not some sort of preener whore alright?¡± Leon caught several questionable glances from people passing by, ¡°What?¡± He turned to them with a growl, ¡°I said I wasn¡¯t one.¡± As he warded people away with his scowls and sour disposition towards them, he was oblivious to most of what Olas and Luna were talking about. All he knew that it was in the gryphon tongue, little more than chirps and whistles to his unaccustomed ears.

    ¡°I know what can wipe that unease from you my dear!¡± Olas finally exclaimed with a cheery tone, pulling Luna in with a wing and gesturing to the largest tent in all the field. ¡°Acrobats, magical feats, animals, I can see it now! Oh, and the clowns, how I remember you loved the clowns.¡±

    Leon shook as a perverse tingle traveled down his spine. It would appear as Luna had done the same, sharing the same sentiment, ¡°Gods I hate the fucking clowns.¡± Despite this he was forced to follow on the tail of his feathery employer, brought along with a joyous chirp, a wink, and flash of his fluffy bum.

 Gilded Cage Chapter 8+9

    <u>Chapter 8</u>

    Inside the main tent the excitement contained within was greater than what lay outside it. Humans hollered to the crowds, directing them to seats on promises they¡¯d be astounded. There was a great ring cleared for the acts, surrounded by wooden seats rising from the ground to fit as many guests as possible. The air was filled with a dull roar, mumbling and chatter from all those who now awaited with bated breath for the acts to begin.

    Despite their common appearance, a halfling found them as they padded in. The hairy footed man directed them to a roped off section near the front, divided from the other guests by a solid meter. It had a sign, highlighting that Olas Mysticfeather was here.

    ¡°Look dear, we get to sit near the front!¡± Olas chirped with delight, bouncing on his paws at such a development. ¡°Oh, I can¡¯t wait to see all the merriment, the feats of delight, how our feathers will ruffle with comedic wonderment.¡± He closed his eyes as he sat down, slipping back to memories long since passed. ¡°I can hardly wait!¡±

    Luna rested beside him with a grumble, scowling at the exceptional treatment they were receiving, ¡°Dad, can¡¯t you see that they¡¯re just buttering you up.¡± She gestured to the masses around the circular ring, where humans and gryphons sat so close, they were practically stitched to one another.

    ¡°But then we couldn¡¯t clap or fluff our wings dear! Oh, did you see one of the signs on the way in? I do believe I saw adverts for owlbears, manticore tamers, ropers, wyvern riders and a Koibra!¡± Olas¡¯ crowns extended at the thought of such exotic animals on display, ¡°To think they gathered them from outside Sethera, it¡¯s wonderous!¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t you just conjure such things with magic? Like illusions and such? Also, why a roper? Don¡¯t they know those things wait in caverns, pretending to be stalagmites only to ensnare people with their tentacles and eat them?¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t tell you of their selection dearest, but I can assure you that my illusions, while grand as they are, hardly compare to seeing and smelling the real thing!¡± He wiggled his bum as the anticipation built within his bones, ¡°To think they even tamed such creatures without magical help; Oh it¡¯s ever so delightful!¡±

    ¡°If you say so.¡± She rolled her eyes, but even she couldn¡¯t hide the anticipation waiting on her tongue, ¡°Though a wyvern rider? How do you suppose they do that, on account of the scorpion tail?¡±

    ¡°I assume with as much caution as warranted.¡± He chuckled, ¡°That tail does nasty things to any stung by it don¡¯t you know. Why, Leon told me of someone that Hemake was it? Anyway, his cleric had to tend to someone that had their flesh being eaten horribly away by the venom!¡±

    ¡°I think you forgot to add the extra horrific part of it.¡± Leon stood at the edge of their seats, arms crossed, a perfect example of a statue. ¡°The blasted venom starts to liquify your insides if it goes untreated.¡±

    ¡°Eww.¡± Luna¡¯s ears splayed as she pretended to gag, ¡°I didn¡¯t need a visual.¡±

    That was certainly not his intention. The lord laughed nervously as he tried to salvage the comment and twist it into something they could bond over. ¡°Right, well do you still imagine yourself as an adventurer? I¡¯ve heard it¡¯s quite wonderous and thrilling, sailing over rapids of Sharktooth Sands in Cliaran, delving into Azemeth tombs in the Laree Tops, crossing paths with bandits and all that.¡± He gave Leon a wink as the man surveyed the crowds, clearly playing hard to get clearly.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t done that for years. Plus, you know, it¡¯s fraught with danger and uncertainty. Ancient traps with poison, great beasts that can tear you apart? Come on dad, that life has a short age expectancy for a reason. Only reason Leon over there is probably alive is because you give him toys and easy quests.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure that¡¯s not the only reason. Leon there is a skilled and crafty individual. I wager even without all the toys that I gift upon him; he¡¯d still have the same level of success that he does!¡±

    ¡°Right.¡±

    ¡°And do you remember galloping around the house playing pirate?¡± He chuckled, painting the picture of her youth, bright eyed in his studies, snatching book and treasures into a sizable leather sack. To his amusement, Luna¡¯s ears splayed as she diverted her gaze, clearly embarrassed. When he went to nuzzle her the daughter he once knew pressed back with several chirps. Feathers rubbed up on one another for several delightful moments, forgetting the unease that rested upon their home like a terrible cloud. But with a breath and soft chirp, Luna pulled away, clacking her beak to ward away his affections.

    ¡°Quit it! You¡¯re embarrassing me!¡±

    ¡°Then be embarrassed dear. I care not if everyone knows I love my delightful daughter.¡±

    ¡°I hate you.¡± She squawked, ruffling her feathers, staring at the ring, waiting for anything to take the lord¡¯s attentions off her.

    ¡°Of course, you don¡¯t.¡± He sighed, giving her a reprieve for now. The lord shifted his attention back towards his knight in shining armor, Leon currently on the job. The mercenary was warding away potential threats, commoners that had realized just who Olas was, their eyes filled with questions and envy. No doubt they wished to disrupt this so far relaxing day. His tail flicked in amusement at such a display of command and strength, the way Leon took no excuses from those begging to see him. It warmed the blood, stirred feelings within, if only there were not so many people around.

    ¡°Did you hear me?¡± Luna¡¯s voice pulled him from his rising lust.

    ¡°What were you saying dear?¡± He snapped to her with a nervous laugh, spying her sharpened gaze.

    ¡°Are you kidding me?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so dearest. What¡¯s got you upset?¡±

    ¡°Never mind.¡± She grunted, pushing away his inquisitive beak.

    As the gryphon went to apologize for whatever slight he¡¯d somehow done, his world was soon bombarded by the thunderous blast of trumpets through the tent. They came from all directions with a blusterous announcement. Then, just as his ears thought a reprieve was in order, a voice with the strength of a dragon¡¯s roar silenced all within.

    ¡°Welcome ladies and gryphons to the greatest show in all of Sethera!¡± A halfling in a bright crimson vest appeared in the center of the ring, stepping out of a plume of blackened smoke. He grinned, spreading his hands as light winked off the gold stitches that adorned his navy trousers and vest. ¡°Today you will see tricks, wonderous sights, exotic animals to please all your desires! We have treants, displacer beasts, clowns of Loki just to name a few! I¡¯m honored to show this to you today, but first, let¡¯s have a round of applause for the catbird that allowed this to happen, Olas Mysticfeather!¡±

    A shaft of soft light illuminated from above, drawing all sights upon Olas, granting him the reverence that he was due. He closed his eyes and basked in their praise, hand to his chest as they serenaded him with a cacophony of claps and hollers. To this he would wag his wing out of respect, offering soft pleased chirps.

    Explosions of confetti blasted from several sections of the ring, raining down upon the guests to a burst of applause. To the ring came jugglers, humans riding wheels, even a few gryphons balancing swords upon their beaks. Some of their number breathed fire, others rode upon horses and wolves to rival their size. Among them came acrobats flipping and wheeling about on their limbs, followed by humans and gryphons covered in greens and whites, wearing masks to conceal their faces.

    One right after the other the show began; the acts being separated by the ringmaster¡¯s demand. First came the acrobats to show their feats, performing leaps and balancing acts far above the ground level. Through flame rings they dove and spun, dancing through the air as if they were weightless. They would climb and dangle off one another in dazzling displays of balance and strength.

    ¡°And without even a net or spell to protect them!¡± The ringleader had bragged, hands upon his vest as he gave a smug smirk, ¡°One slip and it would be all over!¡±

    Olas lost himself to the others around him, becoming just another hollering hooligan as he squawked, crowed, and clapped his wings together. He found himself enthralled as gryphons spun around the air, tucking their wings and avoiding rings of fire, darts, and other spiked contraptions that would have torn them apart bit by bit. In these moments his heart sang, dark thoughts whisked away to oblivion. He was just a child again, innocent and free of grief, also oblivious to his daughter¡¯s second question.

    Next came dancers, gryphons of course, outfitted with see through fabrics that adorned their flanks and limbs. They trotted and pranced around the ring in unison, extending their wings in several exaggerated displays. Shaking their haunches and sliding up around one another, it was enthralling to behold. They found themselves joined by humans with whips of fire, lashing outwards with cracks for the gryphons to avoid.

    It was the animals that Olas was most silent, eyes sparkling at the creatures on display. He almost dragged Leon over to him to bask in the wonderment but figured the man had seen such things on his many adventures. Instead, he pointed with the eagerness of a child, bouncing in his seat as Luna groaned at such a display. There were displacer beasts, creatures that resembled lions with large tentacles that rose from their flanks. They projected false images of themselves, typically to confuse their prey. These were tamed by a large ceullus man with a whip and chair, forcing the beasts to acts of submission. After that came creatures of living stone with hundreds of teeth, birds that could suddenly freeze themselves solid, display after display the lord was growing louder, until they brought out a hydra.

    ¡°Look Leo! Look!¡± Olas warbled, dragging Leon over with a wing, he gestured to the six headed, serpent like beast as a team sought to keep it¡¯s snapping heads at bay. ¡°A real hydra! How on the earth did that get that?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a small one.¡± Grunted the mercenary, trying to free himself as the four-legged beast was forced to maneuver around the ring by vibrant displays of multicolored plumes of fire.

    ¡°How would you know?¡± Luna snapped.

    ¡°Fought one in the Forest of Stars missy.¡± Leon crossed his arms with a prideful grin, ¡°Big one, had seven heads, even had breaths of fire!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re making that up. Breath fire?¡±

    ¡°Some do, they¡¯re just rare.¡±

    ¡°Dad?¡±

    ¡°He knows what he¡¯s talking about darling.¡± Olas nodded, as the mercenary slipped from his clutches and returned to his post. ¡°I remember the story well. See, it involved a hag and her being upset with townsfolk from Trost. Evidently some gryphons were bathing frequently in what she referred to as her lake.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re only taking his side because you like him.¡± She groaned, averting her gaze as the older gryphon chuckled and nibbled at her hair. She batted him away with a hand and several clacks of her beak.

    ¡°That¡¯s not entirely the reason my dear.¡± He purred.

    A minotaur wrapped in chocolate fur, broken apart by streaks of grey was clad in swathes of loose fitting attire of green and silver. He had a head-dress that dangled like an octopus resting on his horned head, tipped with bells that jingled as he pressed through Leon¡¯s protest. Powerful hands snapped a metallic object from his waist, a dragonpower pistol from Drenedar with an elk horned grip. Cruel, claw eyes narrowed as the weapon was brought to bear, it¡¯s metal winked for just a moment before the minotaur had the shaft of Qo shoved right into his muscular torso.

    With a thunderous crack the weapon went off, silencing the hall. The bull yelped in surprise as electricity crackled off his flesh moments before he was hurled off his hooves and sent crashing to the ring¡¯s floor below.

    Screams sprang forth from all those around them, some began to flee towards the exit. Olas merely looked upon what had transpired with an aroused trill, his crown feathers raising at such an act. Blood warmed, ¡°Oh, my Leo, how protective you are.¡± He couldn¡¯t wait to get that hunky piece of half-elf home and reward him with his fluffy behind for such a good job. His daughter did not share in his enjoyment of the interaction.

    She let forth an exacerbated squawk, ¡°I can¡¯t do this anymore!¡± Without delay she sprang to all fours, leaping from her seat and sprinting towards the exit with all the other guests.

    His lustful haze had been brought to an end, his attention snapping to the tuft tail of his fleeing daughter. Without another glance to his heroic half-elf, he bounded upon the younger gryphon¡¯s hinds. ¡°Luna wait! I¡¯m sorry, he was just being so attractive! I¡¯m only a gryphon! Do wait for me!¡±

    ** ** ** ** ** ** **

    Leon would have followed the noble gryphon and his daughter, but his attention was focused upon the minotaur currently dusting himself off and shaking free whatever daze he¡¯d found himself in. The half-elf brandished the shaft of Qo, letting it¡¯s tip crackle with power as if to put an end to whatever else this bull had in store. ¡°I told you the gryph was having a day with the daughter!¡± Barked Leon, ¡°Now don¡¯t go whining about the sting, I know your kind can take far more punishment than that.¡±

    The minotaur huffed, grabbing his headdress, and hurling it to the ground. His muzzle was a horrid painting of pain and misery, covered in scars and missing an eye. The one he had was a sea of emerald hate, practically burning the air around it. ¡°Does my eye deceive me? Or is that Leon Silverblade up there, dressed in armor like some feathery whore? I wasn¡¯t aware that being a coward paid so well.¡±

    He recognized that voice, it drove a knife through the man¡¯s side. ¡°Losanas is that you? You¡¯re one to talk- ¡°Gesturing to the loose-fitting attire that Losanas found himself, ¡°Tired of being a warrior and decided slutty clown was a replacement career? Though you never had any vision for the future.¡±

    That flared the minotaur¡¯s nostrils as he unbound the belt around his waist. It happened to be a black steel chain, it¡¯s end a jagged mess that would pulverize any flesh that it caught. He whipped it around him, leaving jagged valleys in the ground at his sides, ¡°Stand aside if you know what¡¯s good for you. Though I¡¯d love to see you struggling for breath, the life draining from your eyes, today I¡¯m not here for you.¡±

    ¡°Should I have my feelings hurt?¡± He taunted, putting back his shaft and slinging the energy crossbow to point straight at the muscular wall before him. ¡°But you¡¯re going to have to go through me Losanas, which I must admit is a bit of fresh air for the day. You¡¯re turning it into a day of honest work.¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re not getting out of the way?¡±

    ¡°Oh, so you went deaf in the years apart now? Touch one feather on his head and I¡¯ll blow yours right off!¡±

    Losanas¡¯ tail flicked in amusement, ¡°Amusing. I don¡¯t remember you being so protective.¡±

    ¡°And I don¡¯t remember you being so chatty.¡±

    It happened in the blink of an eye, the moment they¡¯d been waiting for snapped. The minotaur¡¯s chain whipped out with tremendous speed, with a strength that only his people could match. It crashed into the stands as Leon leaped out of the way, splintering the wood into thousands of pieces. Leon¡¯s weapon coughed it¡¯s assault, crackling blue energy bolts sailing towards the now charging bull. They struck him, a shimmering shield of cerulean light cascading around his fur.

    ¡°Ring of protection, cloak of protection, what do you have?¡± Leon was forced to back pedal, the minotaur closing the distance with a startling speed. ¡°I didn¡¯t think you were clever enough for magic.¡±

    ¡°Clever enough.¡± The bull thundered, his chain demolishing wherever Leon decided to run. ¡°Seems you¡¯re still good at running.¡±

    ¡°Who uses a chain anymore? Spiked chain of all things.¡±

    ¡°I like the classics.¡±

    Every step he counted the moments that he still drew breath. There was no avenue to advance upon the bull and engage in melee, not when he had the advantage with that chain of his. He wasn¡¯t stupid enough to lose that. He crashed to the wood, the most recent strike fragmenting just inches behind him.  Heart pounding, he tapped his bracer, summoning a shield of translucent green light in the nick of time. It crackled with power as the chain rebound off its surface, giving the mercenary enough time to scramble to his feet.

    ¡°Yet another toy. Got anything worthwhile to use in that arsenal of yours?¡± Losanas snarled as the green shield burst into little motes of light.

    ¡°Give me a few minutes and I¡¯m sure to throw out something you¡¯d like.¡± He growled, pulling out a necklace of red pearls.

    ¡°Now you have jewelry?¡±

    Not just any jewelry. He plucked one of the beads from its thread, rolling it between his fingers as he continued his evasive dance. Power warmed his flesh, whispered to be used, when Losanas loosed his chain once more he hurled it straight towards the minotaur. The gem landed between the bull¡¯s hooves, exploding with the force of a fireball.

    Losanas was hurled to the ground with a painted grunt, rolling until he came to a stop. His chain was separated from him, his fur smoking from the heat, as he shook his head from the daze of what just happened, Leon saw his chance. The mercenary charged, drawing the shaft of Qo, bringing it¡¯s crackling energy to life.

    ¡°Not this time whelp.¡± Grunted the beast, avoiding the blow at the last moment and slamming his fist into the man¡¯s chest.

    Even through the armor, that knocked the wind out of him, it was like getting struck by a mace. He crashed to the ground with a lance of pain, coming to a stop with a groan. Why did Minotaur have to be so strong? With a growl he pushed himself back to standing, there was no time to lay around on the job.

    ¡°All that armor and gadgets, and yet¡­useless.¡± Losanas grinned, advancing upon the wheezing man with a malevolent grin.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    ¡°Best not¡­count yourself the winner just yet.¡± Leon pulled from his waist a wand of crimson, tapping the rune along its grip. From it sprouted a plume of hungry flames, wicked in its purpose. To his dismay this did little but singe Losanas¡¯ fur as he swatted the wand aside and grabbed the half-elf¡¯s wrists.

    ¡°See? Use-Grah!¡±

    He¡¯d stabbed the minotaur in the gut with a dagger, it most likely wouldn¡¯t kill the sturdy beast, but it certainly gave him a chance to slip away. The merc only wheeled around when there was ample distance between, he and Losanas, procuring three metallic balls from his pouches, one rust, one pink and the last one blue.

    ¡°More gadgets?¡± Sighed Losanas, padding over to where his chain did lay. Plucking it up he could only grin, ¡°You delay the inevitable Leon. Why don¡¯t you just run away? We both know that¡¯s what your good at.¡±

    He grit his teeth to that knowing look. ¡°Unfortunately for my health, there is a great contract in it for me. So, if you want to talk to the gryphon, you¡¯re going to have to wait in line, then go through me.¡±

    ¡°That doesn¡¯t sound so hard. I¡¯ll wager five minutes tops.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, it might take longer than that.¡± He singled out the rust-colored ball and loosed it in the minotaur¡¯s direction.

    ¡°Pfff, after the red ones you think I¡¯d let any of those get close?¡± Losanas whipped the ball straight out of the air, causing it to explode in a puff of brown smoke. He smirked, pulling his weapon back to begin his attacks once more. ¡°See? Harm-¡°

    The minotaur¡¯s chain began to brown and crack, rust swarming over it like an angry tide. Within a matter of moments it was entirely consumed, crumbling away to nothing but dust.

    ¡°Looks like you¡¯re going to have to do it without a chain.¡± Grinned Leon, holding the other two balls on display as he relished in a gaze that could kill getting loosed in his direction, ¡°I wonder what these two do? Let¡¯s find out big guy!¡±

    <u>Chapter 9</u>

    Bursting free of the circus tent, Olas¡¯ breaths came ever faster. She¡¯d never run off like this, always was she the perfect little sunshine. Though with her words came a sting that soured the gryphon as his head swiveled to and fro, searching through the bumbling mass of people for the slightest hint of his dearest Luna.

    Screams came from behind him, but he paid them little mind. Only his daughter mattered. ¡°Luna!¡± He shouted, his voice dripping with guilt. This was all his fault, the pained look in her eye, it haunted him, slowed his movements as he closed his eyes and took sniffs of the air.

    Humans, elf, dwarf and even the scattered scent of Luna. It was too intermingled with one another to get it properly narrowed down. He was left panting upon the air, heart pounding in his chest. That¡¯s when a human leaped upon his back, sword held in hand, followed by another. It was the group from before, the ones with the drinks.

    ¡°Look who we have here!¡± Cried the half-orc that Leon had defeated. ¡°If it isn¡¯t the gryphon all alone.¡±

    ¡°Might want to pay him back for making you so embarrassed boss.¡± Added another one of their number.

    How was he supposed to be searching for his daughter with such distractions? Olas spoke, but not to these ruffians, the act between he and Leon was running it¡¯s course, ¡°Ahem, I do believe I¡¯m supposed to be bodyguarded right now!¡± As his tail lashed there came twin, keening cries. The one on his back was pulled off by Krantor, carrying the man to the ground. The gryphons weight continued through, ending the man¡¯s life with a wicked snap of his bones.

    The other pair turned to run, but not before finding themselves pulled suddenly frozen, eyes blinking in terror at finding their limbs unwilling to listen to their demands. Hetake rounded on these men, giving sly winks.

    ¡°Looks like you boys are going no where.¡± She chirped.

    ¡°You alright Olas?¡± Krantor pinned his onyx wings as the gryphon lord responded with an exacerbated squawk.

    ¡°Where is my darling Leo?¡± Olas¡¯ gaze narrowed, ¡°He¡¯s my knight in shining armor, not you two.¡±

    Hetake¡¯s ears pinned as a fresh group of people scattered from the large tent, screaming about a half-elf and minotaur fighting it out with weapons. ¡°It would appear getting into trouble. Speaking of which-¡°

    ¡°On it hun.¡± Krantor slid along his mate before racing off to join in whatever problems that Leon was having.

    ¡°Wonderful.¡± Groaned Olas as he returned to the more pressing matter at hand. ¡°Leon is off quarreling with the locals and my daughter has gone and flown off.¡± He lashed his tail, was this not supposed to be a day of relaxation and relief? When another round of trying to divulge her scent proved a failure, he began to try more of a magical solution.

    He plucked one of his feathers from his plumage, wincing at the slight sting. Placing it before him he began to chant in the draconic tongue, drawing several runes upon the air with his hands. ¡°Siiv Gein.¡± The word came like a growl. Bright crimson light came to his eyes as the feather rose from the ground as if by an invisible hand. To his daughter his thoughts went, picturing the face that he adored these many years. Her smile captivated him, the way she laughed, even the mournful sobs that he knew she must be doing this very moment.

    ¡°What¡¯s that meant to do?¡± Hekate poked her curious head, cocked to the side.

    The feather snapped to the north, ¡°It will point her out to me. She couldn¡¯t have gotten far. Of the two of us, I am the swifter flyer.¡± He unfurled his wings and pounced to the air, ignoring Hetake¡¯s cries for him to stay. Nothing mattered save his daughter. When the feather rose with him, steady with its directions, he pounded his wings and raced towards where it pointed.

    He found Luna on the other side of a lake, not three minutes flight from the circus ground. Some had questioned where the great lord Olas had been going, but he sent them away with a harsh chirp and heavy stare. Luna was nestled up beneath a maple¡¯s trunk, it¡¯s crimson leaves spread wide and offering her shade. Head in her wings, body shuttering, there was no question on what she was doing. This was his fault, of all his antics, he¡¯d forgotten about her. Down he swooped with a heavy heart, landing with nary a sound.

    ¡°I take it you were not having any fun?¡± He asked tentatively, striding along as if the world beneath him might crumble away should he choose the wrong step.

    ¡°It was supposed to just be us today.¡± From her wing came her head, red-orange eyes wet with tears.

    ¡°I know, I know.¡±

    ¡°And you go about, flirting with some dickhead the entire time. Don¡¯t you even care about me?¡±

    The words bit as he slid beside her, stitching his ears to his neck. He could face down monsters three times his size with the bravest of hearts but staring into the wounded face of his daughter caused him to tremble, feel weaker than a gryphet freshly hatched. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, this isn¡¯t how I wanted things to go. I might have gotten carried away.¡±

    ¡°Might have? Your eyes were locked on him practically the entire time.¡± She sniffed, wiping her tears away with a wing, ¡°I want to go home¡­but it doesn¡¯t even feel like a home anymore¡­you¡¯ve gone and ruined it.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­listen, I know what¡¯s going on is a lot-¡°Words tumbled from his beak, empty words that would fit better in a drunkards tankard than comfort the storm of despair gripping his daughter. The fighting with Isadora, the shouting, the shattering of things, he¡¯d never stopped to consider its effect on her.

    ¡°Are you going to run off with him? Join his stupid band of adventurers and fly off so that I can¡¯t find you?¡±

    ¡°What? No, never. How could you think such a thing?¡± He pressed in, nuzzling at her cheek, thrilled to see that she didn¡¯t pull away. He extended a wing and wrapped it around her, holding the shuttering form of his daughter close. She buried her face into his chest, just as she¡¯d done when she was very small. He rested a hand on her neck, stroking through the feathers ever slow, offering soothing coos and warbles. ¡°You are my bright Starfire, and I love you ever so much. I¡¯d never leave you.¡±

    ¡°Then why did you spend the day flirting with a half-elvish dickhead?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s not really a dickhead.¡± When she pulled back to snap her beak at him, he relented with a nervous chuckle, ¡°Alright, a little bit of a dickhead, but I¡¯ll only stay with that characterization to keep talking with you.¡±

    She looked away with a weakened whine, staring off to the crystal waters of the lake. ¡°Why did you have to go and ruin everything? Sleeping with a commoner? What do you even see in him anyway? He has hardly any beak or feathers about him, totally ugly.¡±

    To that he gave a soft sigh, ¡°He¡¯s brave, charming, and tickles my heart something special. When I¡¯m around him, all the turmoil and pressures that fall upon me lessen¡­I feel loved.¡±

    ¡°Loved? Did you not have that with mother?¡±

    His beak opened and closed, trying to cobble together the words that he and Isadora had never loved each other. How could he shatter that illusion to her? That everything she¡¯d known up until this moment had been a brave face.

    ¡°And now, great, I have to worry about this with Arion.¡± Tears bubbled within her eyes once more as she struggled to maintain a sense of calm, ¡°He was sweet, kind, delightful! When I looked to him, I knew he had my heart. All of this has me questioning such a thought, will he come to hate me? Keep secrets that I will despise? Will we want to kill each other?¡±

    When she began to sob, he rose her chin with a hand, finding the courage. ¡°Dear, your mother and I-¡° He gave a deep sigh, never imagining that this day would come. ¡°We were never in love.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Never.¡± He continued, ¡°Your mother and I were arranged for a peace treaty between the Steelbeaks and the Mysticfeathers, nothing more. You were all that we existed for.¡±

    ¡°But¡­that can¡¯t be true!¡± Her ears splayed, pulling away from him as if burned, ¡°I¡¯ve seen you two happy! All the trips, the times we¡¯ve spent, you can¡¯t be serious. You can¡¯t tell me all of that was-¡°She had risen to pace, panting as her entire world unraveled.

    ¡°We kept it up for you. Though I suppose it couldn¡¯t last.¡± He rose to press along her flank, tenderly nuzzling at her head till she was pushing back into his motions. ¡°I just wanted to give you a happy childhood, one that had been denied me. A caring father that would always be there for you...whenever you had need of them.¡±

    This did little to sweep aside the confusion resting behind her eyes, ¡°You¡¯re telling me that all I¡¯ve ever known is a lie. That what I thought was a decent marriage was a sham?¡±

    His heart ached, ¡°Dear, it¡¯s bad when you say it like that, but I did it because I love you.¡±

    ¡°But what about Arion?¡± Tears cascaded down her eyes, ¡°It was going so well¡­I thought¡­I thought-¡°

    He rested a wing upon her, ¡°He came to me you know.¡±

    ¡°Arion?¡±

    Olas nodded, ¡°Just after a year ago. How he went on just about you, it was hard to get him to talk about anything else. I thought you¡¯d snuck about and drugged him with one my love potions.¡±

    ¡°You have those?¡± She sniffed.

    ¡°Not the point dear. The point is that he was bouncing on his hinds, I¡¯d never seen such passionate talk in all my days. The way he looked to you out our windows¡­¡± Olas sighed, only knowing one such place in which he could find that comfort. The half-elf that even now tugged at his soul. ¡°Luna, he loves you.¡± He turned to nibble at her ears, ¡°Don¡¯t let what is going on with your mother and I ruin your chance for happiness. I¡¯m truly sorry if its shaken your faith in it but hold on for that boy.¡± He gave a sudden chuckle, memories tainted by Isadora¡¯s shrill voice, ¡°I wish I had someone who looked to you as fondly as he does to you over these years. It would have made things far more bearable.¡±

    She pressed against him with a soft chirp, drying her tears upon his plumage.

    ¡°You¡¯ll be alright. I promise no matter where you fly in Sethera and beyond, whatever heights that you climb, I will always be there for you.¡±

    What sadness had gripped her seemed to vanish in his words and tender care, dissipating with a final sniff and wipe of her wing. She rolled into him, pushing the gryphon to his side, snuggling up alongside him. ¡°I suppose you¡¯re right. Perhaps this is nothing more than cold paws.¡±

    ¡°Everyone goes through it. Nervousness about what the future has in store, the many weary paths.¡±

    ¡°And what¡¯s your path?¡± Her question came shaky, ¡°You¡­say you never loved mom? It still feels wrong, never going to get used to saying it.¡±

    ¡°Sorry.¡± His ears pinned, ¡°But you deserved to know.¡±

    There was silence as the question had not been answered. She broke it with a soft coo, ¡°Why Leon? Given that he apparently isn¡¯t a dickhead, why him?¡±

    A cloud of warmth wrapped around the good magician as he flopped to the grass with a whimsical sigh, like a maiden with her first crush. ¡°Darling, Leo looked to me like all the stories. Just like that boy does to you.¡± His eyes closed as he pictured that wonderful night, when the half-elf had saved him from one of Isadora¡¯s revenge parties against him, where she¡¯d torment and chastise him to her friends. ¡°It was a night; your mother had been¡­well.¡± He clacked his beak before insisting that it didn¡¯t matter, he didn¡¯t figure how she¡¯d take him bad beaking her. ¡°Leon was there to talk to me, we traversed the halls, he was such the gentleman. We shared stories of his wonderous adventures, where he''d been these many years.¡± He giggled, ¡°We were child friends you know.¡±

    ¡°You were?¡±

    He nodded, ¡°Summers mostly, but that might be a tale for another time. What¡¯s important is that when my heart was weeping and cold had invaded my everything, he was there to rescue me. When he looked to me with such passion, sparks seemed to fly between us. It¡¯s hard to describe dear, but right then and there I knew he was the one. It fills me with warmth, lifts me up, I feel ever more powerful. Stars sparkle, my paws bounce, I ache when he¡¯s not around. I want to do anything for him, shower him with my all, have him want for naught. It¡¯s all exciting, breathtaking¡­¡± He rested his head on the grass, staring into the vast sky, ¡°I¡¯ve never felt this way about anyone ever before. Could it be wrong?¡±

    ¡°It sounds like you¡¯re in love.¡±

    He hadn¡¯t thought of that, yet the answer was clearly obvious as a robin¡¯s song. As he went on to describe more of his handsome nature and passion, Luna covered his beak with a wing.

    ¡°Look, dad¡­¡± She splayed her ears, ¡°I¡¯m not going to say I¡¯m thrilled that you found someone who made you feel like that¡­but could you not fight with mother so?¡±

    He nodded softly, promising to do better. ¡°To be fair, I have been trying to avoid her.¡±

    ¡°And for the man who has captured your heart¡­does he love you back? Are you sure he¡¯s not using you for favors and power?¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡± His heart skipped a beat, flickers of Isadora¡¯s remark bubbling to the surface of his mind.

    ¡°I mean¡­he¡¯s a commoner, you¡¯re a noble-¡°

    ¡°And I don¡¯t care.¡± Olas sighed, clutching his chest tight with his talons and giving a pleased chirp, ¡°What does it matter if I¡¯m enchanted by a commoner? Just cause we¡¯re of the higher class doesn¡¯t make us better Luna.¡±

    She nuzzled him with a soft chirp, ¡°So¡­I suppose we should get back to the circus?¡±

    ¡°If Leon hasn¡¯t burned the entire thing down by now.¡±

    ¡°He what?¡±

    He waggled a wing to her, ¡°Something fighting a minotaur or other. He and his team are handling it at this very moment. But let¡¯s not concern ourselves with Leon, today is going to be about you.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± She chirped, ears perked as her father chuckled.

    ¡°Indeed, so what would you like to see?¡±

    Talon to her beak she thought for a moment, scrunching her brow in thought. ¡°I know!¡± She chirped, ¡°Think we can see the lions? They¡¯re so weird looking, like someone stopped making a gryphon halfway!¡±

    ¡°Wonderful taste my dear!¡± He replied, nuzzling up along his daughter¡¯s flank. ¡°I just hope Leon and his little friends don¡¯t mind entertaining themselves for the day.¡±

    ** ** ** ** ** ** *

    Leon¡¯s hair on the back of his neck stood tall, adrenaline pumping through his veins. He¡¯d only managed to scramble away at the last moment, as Lasonas¡¯ crushing hoof pulverized the stand in which he¡¯d fallen against. Any jab or attack that he¡¯d made against the minotaur might as well have been pounding against a wall. Despite his age, the beast was still as durable in his youth.

    ¡°Not going to sit still and take your beating like a warrior?¡± Losanas¡¯ growled, rounding upon Leon without breaking his stride.

    ¡°Not really no, I prefer to be alive when everything is said and done.¡± Magical binding rope, flash powder, a cube to make a duplicate of himself, all of it seemed useless against the rage monster that had him in his sights. Gritting his teeth, he swore that he¡¯d ask Olas for some gadgets to put creatures like this in the ground rather swiftly. His eyes traveled to a ring upon the minotaur¡¯s horn, gold and shimmering every slightly. If he could get that off and retrieve his energy crossbow, he knew it¡¯s power would have this bull eating dirt.

    ¡°Hey there Leon, fancy another dancing partner?¡± Krantor squawked mid-flight, shooting towards them like a loosed arrow.

    ¡°Finally, you show up, having fun with your wife?¡±

    ¡°You know, she¡¯s quite good at the games. Don¡¯t mess with her when she¡¯s hurling axes.¡±

    ¡°My quarrel is not with you gryphon, test me at you-¡° Lasanas began to hiss, only for Krantor to sweep his legs right out from under him. As he crashed to the ground, he got the gryphon¡¯s talons straight to the chest.

    Krantor gave a pleased trill, ¡°And I¡¯ll be taking your thanks for the rest of the-¡° He squawked as the minotaur grabbed his foreleg with a firm grip, pulling him forward and slamming the catbird to the ground. ¡°Alright, he¡¯s not beaten!¡± Moaned the gryphon, managing to pull away before his beak got intimate with Losanas¡¯ fists.

    ¡°Nice entrance.¡± Leon barked.

    ¡°It would have worked¡­why didn¡¯t it?¡± The gryphon landed at Leon¡¯s side, ¡°Is he another construct?¡±

    ¡°Barbarian.¡± Leon scowled as Losanas stood to his hooves, ¡°They have a habit of taking a decent amount of punishment.¡±

    ¡°One, two, it doesn¡¯t matter.¡± Losanas chuckled, cracking his knuckles, ¡°I¡¯m surprised you can keep people around you Leon.¡±

    The warrior flared his nostrils and took aim, stampeding towards them both. Head down, horns ready to skewer, they¡¯d stand no chance. Leon hurled himself out of the way, belly slamming to the ground as Krantor leaped up and over the charging bull. Losanas crashed into the stands with a pained grunt, the wood splintering at his touch.

    ¡°Alright, so he¡¯s tough and strong.¡± Krantor leaped to Leon¡¯s side, helping the man clamber to his feet. Eyes flicked over the blood upon Leon¡¯s lips, ¡°You alright?¡±

    ¡°Sides aching, limbs burn.¡± Leon coughed, ¡°Never been better.¡±

    ¡°How we going to beat this lug then?¡±

    ¡°The ring. Around his horn, can you work your magic and get it off him?¡±

    Krantor wiggled a raised hand, ¡°I do believe I¡¯ve been described as having magical hands?¡±

    ¡°Then by all means, your audience awaits.¡±

    Like a demon Losanas rose from the stands, shrugging off the debris that clung to him. The bull stomped and snorted, lashing his tail as he set his gaze upon them.

    ¡°Wonderful.¡± Krantor rolled his eyes, ¡°I hope whatever you got planned works.¡±

    He had no doubt in his mind. As the gryphon charged towards the roaring bull, Leon sprinted towards his fallen energy crossbow. He grabbed hold just as soon as Krantor clashed with Losanas, pouncing high with his magical hands seeking to do their thing. A pained squawk resounded through the hall as the gryphon took a pair of punches straight to his chest. He collapsed as Leon wheeled about, aiming his sights upon the brutish thug.

    ¡°Shame you¡¯ll fail him too.¡± Losanas¡¯ hoof rested above Krantor¡¯s stunned head, waiting to come down and crush it.

    No warning, not a sound. Leon prayed that Krantor¡¯s trick had worked. With a surge running through him he loosed four shots in rapid succession. Blue lights of crackling energy, crashing into the chest of the minotaur in nearly a blink of an eye. No shield, no ripple, just satisfying sparkle as it struck his fur.

    ¡°Ghh.¡± The minotaur clutched at himself, stumbling backwards in a daze. He crashed to the ground with a pained groan. There he squirmed, hardly able to move. It had worked.

    ¡°Take that you muscle bound fuck!¡± Leon shouted in relief, a smile uncontained on his lips. But experience had taught him caution, as he jogged to Krantor¡¯s side, his hands never left his weapon as it was trained on his groaning foe. The gryphon was still alive, breathing shallow, it didn¡¯t look like his life was in danger.

    ¡°How you holding up?¡± He asked, without removing his eyes from the bull.

    ¡°Wasn¡¯t the greatest.¡± Krantor coughed, shifting to push himself to all fours, ¡°Guess I don¡¯t like getting fisted.¡±

    ¡°Here.¡± Leon pulled a vial of red liquid from his pouches, a healing potion. It would at least stop whatever superficial damage that had been done. ¡°Wife can patch you up when we find her.¡±

    The gryphon thanked him, uncorking the top and downing the viscous liquid. Ears splayed as he gagged, his body thrashing as he chocked it down. ¡°Gods those still taste terrible.¡±

    ¡°See if she can put in cherry favor next time. Now stay there, I got to go ask our guest something.¡± Patting Krantor¡¯s side he closed the distance between he and the fallen minotaur, ready to put him down at even the slightest of movements. Thankfully it had seemed his weapon had done the trick, Losanas had no energy to sit up.

    ¡°You¡­bastard.¡± The bull scowled, trying to spit and only managing to get it upon himself.

    ¡°Might want to work on the spitting.¡±

    ¡°Get mounted.¡±

    He patted the crossbow with a smirk, ¡°Funny time you coming out here, trying to off my employer. What gives?¡±

    ¡°You think I¡¯d talk to scum like you?¡± Losanas averted his gaze, instead resting upon the tent¡¯s top. ¡°I just find it amusing. All these years and you cobble together another sorry sack of losers to carry your disgrace.¡±

    ¡°Just jealous I¡¯m not palling around with you anymore? Speaking of which, you never were one for the solo jobs, were is the rest of your team?¡± He surveyed the rest of the ring, not a soul was left to bear witness to this. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me, you scared them off with your handsome face?¡±

    ¡°Make your jokes Leon. But we know it¡¯s to hide the sad, honor less man that you are.¡±

    ¡°Think that¡¯s funny asshole?¡± He brandished the crossbow, ¡°I¡¯d be careful, I have the weapon.¡±

    ¡°And you confirm it.¡± Sighed the bull with a cruel satisfaction, ¡°Poor, cowardly Leon. Who will push those close to him away, betray their trust. I will track you down where you cower, alone, and put that pathetic soul that you are out of your mis-¡°

    The minotaur never got to finish his thought unless what was to come next was screams. Leon switched the crossbow from stun to kill, blowing chunks of minotaur across the ring with every pull of the trigger. With a steeled gaze and unflinching resolve, the half-elf took Losanas apart like a butcher, the air ever filled with the bull¡¯s shouts of anguish. Mercy was not called for, nor would it be granted. Leon left the head for last. He pressed the muzzle of the crossbow right against his temple before ending his life in a gruesome display.

    Leon pulled back, shaking, staring over the crimson mess that Losanas had become. Words failed him as Krantor came to his side. The gryphon took one look at the body and whistled.

    ¡°Damn Leon, the fuck he do to you?¡±

    ¡°Enough.¡± The answer came calmer than he¡¯d expected, despite the shakiness of his hands. Without a word he knelt before the mangled corpse, already starting to sift through his pouches. After all, he wasn¡¯t going to use what was left of him. There wasn¡¯t much to be honest, just a few handfuls of gold; though among this was a silver button with a grinning dragon upon it.

    It felt cold to the touch, this simple thing as he turned it over between his fingers. It seemed to draw him in, hold his attention, the sound around him becoming nothing more than dull noise. The pounding of his heart began to subside with every turn of the button. With this newfound calm came the uneasy sense that someone was watching him. That couldn¡¯t be right however, Leon searched through the stands, there was no one here.

    ¡°Hello there kitties!¡± Krantor¡¯s loud chirp snapped him free of whatever hold the button had over him. ¡°I know this looks extremely bad but, I assure you, we have an honest explanation-¡° A net was tossed upon the onyx gryphon, lightning swelling to life across it¡¯s many threads. Feathers fluffed, limbs twitched, Krantor was soon unconscious from this world.

    Leon turned to see the imposing forms of three Leonin males, lions in humanoid shape. Clad in leathers and armed to the teeth, they looked unwilling to hear any excuse that he might have. Here he was, holding the weapon that had just made a minotaur into nothing more than a pile of still smoldering flesh. He sighed and held up his hands, just in time to get the same treatment as Krantor. Pain raced through him, forced him to spasm, darkness soon took him as he collapsed to the ground. The last thing he could recall was him slipping the button into his pouches.