The Adventures Of A Reluctant Dragon Lord

Chapter 35

Zecora’s Residence, Owalla’wando

For the first time in three days, Theni felt rested and refreshed. It was a welcome change from waking up in the middle of the night, skin drenched in a clammy sheen of sweat, sobbing at the terrors that plagued her mind. The young shaman yawned and stretched out her limbs languidly, as she opened her eyes once more. In a moment of confusion, she’d completely forgotten about joining Spike in bed the night prior. Memories of the bath they’d taken together came rushing back in an instant. The natural scent of his skin put her at ease. Theni realized that it was more than just the memory of his deeds; she was pressed up against the Dragon Lord’s side, cuddling him intimately like one would do with a lover. A strangled squeak barely managed to escape her lips when she spotted a prominent bulge amidst the bedsheets.

Although it was not loud, Theni’s squeak was enough to rouse Spike from his slumber. After smacking his lips a few times, Spike felt the soft, feminine curves of Theni’s body pressed up against him and smiled. She was safe. He threw off the bed sheets, rolled over to the opposite side of the bed, and stood up to begin loosening his sore limbs. As he suspected, his muscles were still in the process of healing. Everything was sore and stiff. Spike turned around to greet Theni, only to see her avoiding his gaze, cheeks flushed a rosy hue of pink. He blinked owlishly.

“Is something wrong? You didn’t wet the bed last night, did you?”

Theni slowly shook her head. “No. It is not that. I slept peacefully last night.”

“Ok. Then why are you acting so skittish? I’m not upset, Theni. I just want to understand.”

Theni pointed towards his waist. “You have an e-erection! Am I to blame for your arousal?”

Spike looked down, and sure enough, his penis stood at full attention. Knowing that covering up was pointless; he rubbed the back of his neck and let out an awkward chuckle. “That’s not—ugh—do you know what morning wood is? Of course, you wouldn’t. Look, men will get an erection when they wake up… for various reasons, it’s a normal, biological process. I swear!”

“Mother never taught me about such things.”

Spike cleared his throat. “Probably because you lived alone with her all these years.”

“Djembe looked the same way before he tried to—does it cause you any pain?”

Spike shuffled his feet, unsure if he wanted to continue this discussion. “Not really. I mean, I suppose it could if it stayed this way for a few hours. But that doesn’t happen very often. Only in extreme circumstances. Like a mishap with drugs, an insect bite, or a spell gone wrong.”

Theni climbed out of bed, walked over to Spike, and crouched in front of him on her haunches. “If I am to overcome my fears, then I must confront them directly! Your penis appears to be… sturdy. Like the trunk of a Baobab tree, but with more veins. My apologies, Spike. I have never gotten the opportunity to study a man’s organ in detail before. I hope you are not embarrassed.”

Spike bit his lip. He could feel her breath tickling his shaft. “In the beginning, I was uncomfortable being nude around everyone but I’ve gotten used to it by now.”

“May I touch it?” Theni asked innocently.

Spike’s posture became rigid. “I’m not sure that’s such a good idea…”

Theni cocked her head to the side with a confused expression. “Why not?”

“EHEM—well, when a man’s penis gets like this, the skin becomes very sensitive to touch.”

Theni’s look of determination was so cute that Spike couldn’t say no. “Do not worry; I promise to be gentle with your manhood. Should you experience any pain, please tell me to stop.”

“Ok. I suppose you can touch it. Just don’t get carried away.”

Theni wrapped her slender ebon fingers around his shaft with the utmost care, marveling at its sheer girth. She gasped in fascination when she felt Spike’s pulse through it like a heartbeat. Where Djembe’s penis had frightened the young shaman, what she held in her hand was attached to someone she trusted implicitly and without hesitation. Theni experienced a lingering sense of nervousness deep within the pit of her stomach. This was countered slightly by the fact that she knew Spike would never harm her on purpose. A strange tingling sensation filled her loins as she drew closer and breathed in the musky aroma of Spike’s member.

“It is so warm. Like your back last night when we slept together.”

Spike chuckled at her childlike sense of wonder. “Not much different than the rest of me. Heh.”

Theni traced her thumb along the surface of Spike’s head a few times, fascinated by its rubbery texture. The constant stimulation caused a sticky bead of precum to ooze out of the tip when she applied more pressure against the sensitive skin underneath. She immediately let go of his penis, stumbled backwards, and blushed. “My apologies! I did not mean to arouse you even more.”

“Uh… that’s… pretty much impossible at this point, Theni.”

Theni rubbed her thighs together, her expression uncertain. “Shall I relieve you then? Mother did not teach me much beyond the very basics of sexual intercourse, but the village women would often gossip about how they pleasured their husbands orally. I have never done it before—”

Spike sat down beside Theni and caressed her back. “You don’t have to force yourself.”

Theni sniffed as tears filled her eyes. “I do not know how else to repay the great debt I owe you! Men enjoy sex, yes? Then if I cannot provide you with coin or labor… I must use my flesh as tithe.”

Spike wrapped his arms around her shoulders and pulled her in for a hug. She immediately began sobbing into his chest, her entire body shuddering as she did so. A pang of sadness filled Spike’s heart. This poor girl had suffered far too much in her short life. Eventually, his erection began to subside, as he was more concerned about comforting Theni than finding relief. However, he did still have to pee and there was also the matter of needing a bath. Coffee sounded nice too.

The Dragon Lord helped Theni to her feet and they walked outside together holding hands. “Let’s get cleaned up and then we can eat breakfast afterwards. Does that sound good?”

“Indeed. I am rather famished myself. Will your… mates be joining us for breakfast as well?”

Spike nodded. “I imagine so. Assuming they’re not busy doing something else.”

“What else would they be doing at this hour?” Theni asked innocently.

“You have a lot to learn about how our relationship dynamic works, Theni.”

The dark-skinned shaman blushed. “Oh. I did not realize that they…”

“Yeah. It’d be super awkward, not to mention difficult, for us to function as mates if we didn’t all love each other. NOT that it’s a contest to see who’s the best, mind you. I guess it’s more like we show each of our respective partners affection differently and in various ways.”

“Polygamy is not unheard of here in Zebrica,” Theni added, “however it has not been in vogue for several centuries. The practice was restricted to upper class elites. They were the only ones who could afford to take care of multiple spouses and the myriad of children that resulted from their marriages. Concerning the customs of your people, I am not as well versed.”

“I didn’t plan on having multiple partners, it just… sort of happened.”

Theni smiled and squeezed Spike’s hand. “Because you are a kind, caring, empathetic individual. It is no mystery to me as to why Ember and Sunset fell in love with you. And—erm—it does not hurt that you are a handsome man in your own right. At least, in my humble opinion.”

Spike’s cheeks flushed at the praise. “Thanks. I’m still not used to thinking of myself that way.”

Theni let out a mirthless chuckle. “The same could be said about me, I suppose. While I have not completely forgotten about my physical deformity, I likely never will, it is comforting to know that I have friends and family who do not shun me for how I was born into this world.”

Spike stopped in front of the shaman and placed his hand on the pale side of her face. “Don’t think of it as a deformity, Theni. Rather, it’s something that makes you unique. I just wish people would stop judging others based on the color of their skin, or what kind of clothing they wear.”

Theni giggled. “Or lack thereof, in our case.”

“We ran into some trouble back in Equestria for abiding by ancient Wyvertii customs. At the very least, if you decide to continue traveling with us, you won’t have to worry about getting arrested for indecent exposure. My aunt’s royal decree gives us all diplomatic immunity.”

Theni frowned. “The books I read from Mother’s library were true then. How unfortunate. I had hoped that other cultures would become more open-minded about our traditional way of life.”

Spike sighed. “That’s part of the reason why I wanted to go on this worldwide tour. To help change minds and show people what else is out there. Like I said: you don’t have to worry about conforming to the expectations of society if you travel with us. We’ll protect you. I promise.”

Theni leaned over and kissed Spike’s cheek. “There is much for me to consider, but I have given serious thought to your offer. My main concern is Mother. How would she fare without me to help with the chores? She is well-respected amongst the villagers. Perhaps, she can hire someone to assist her with daily tasks. I am not entirely certain without asking her.”

“I felt the same way about leaving my family behind in Equestria. Obviously, it’s not going to be a permanent thing. I can come back and visit them when there’s time. Just think of it as an extended vacation. I’m sure your mother would want you to see more of the world at large.”

After a quick bath, Theni and Spike went back inside the house. Everyone was seated around the table, enjoying a bowlful of breakfast porridge made from ground cornmeal and sweetened with dates. The scent of sizzling bacon and freshly brewed coffee wafted throughout the room, making Spike salivate. It had been a while since he’d eaten solid food, given the extent of his injuries. When he sat down in-between Ember and Sunset, they shared a kiss together and offered to fetch Spike some breakfast of his own. Within moments, Spike was wolfing down the porridge like a starving man, enjoying the slightly creamy flavor mixed in with fruit pieces.

Unaware of the additional guest at the table, Spike nearly choked when he saw Chieftain Musa quietly sipping his coffee with a polite smile. “Good morning to you, Dragon Lord. Please, do not fret. You may continue eating. A warrior must rejuvenate his body and soul, after all.”

Wary of his intentions, Zecora stood beside Musa with her hands placed on her hips. When he didn’t say anything more, she decided to take charge of the situation. “I have invited you into my home this morning as a courtesy, chieftain. State your business or I shall kick you out myself.”

Musa chuckled wryly. “Spirit Mother or not, you could always read me like a book. Very well then. I bear no ill will towards the heroes who felled the evil shapeshifter. In fact, I have come with an invitation. Later today, I intend to hunt big game out on the savannah. Whatever you kill, the skin, meat, and bones are yours to harvest as you see fit. Anyone interested in joining me?”

Spike nibbled on a strip of bacon. “I’m still recovering from my wounds. While I appreciate the offer, I’m going to have to pass. Girls? Are either of you interested in a hunting excursion?”

Ember nodded eagerly. “Sounds good to me. What about you, Sunset? Wanna be my partner?”

“Sure, I’m game. What kind of weapons will we be using?”

Musa leaned back in his chair and grinned. “Excellent! There are no restrictions on the weapons you may bring along on the hunt. I even have a few rifles if you wish to use one.”

Sunset shook her head. “Nah. We’ll stick to spears. It’s more sporting that way.”

“Ah~ The traditional weapon of a warrior. I’ve no doubt that the both of you have the tracking skills to go with it. What of the… Spirit Mother’s daughter? I take it she shall not be joining us?”

Zecora narrowed her eyes at Musa. “I understand the need for hunting as it is part of the food chain in nature. But as shamans, we respect the sanctity of life. Parthenia would never willfully kill another creature for sport. Go then, chieftain. I am certain you have preparations to make.”

Musa waved his hands. “I meant no offence, Spirit Mother. Please accept my apology. If you—”

“There is nothing you can say or do that will earn my forgiveness, Musa. Be gone!”

Clearly sensing the shaman’s anger, Musa got up out of his seat and began to leave. The icy look in Zecora’s eyes could have chilled anyone to the bone. “My home is in the center of the village. Just tell the guards of my invitation when you are ready to depart. A pleasant day to everyone.”

While Ember and Sunset left to go prepare their hunting kits, Spike placed his bowl in the sink and walked over to Zecora who was still visibly upset. He placed his hand on her shoulder. “I take it there’s some bad blood between you and the chieftain. Care to talk about it?”

Zecora let out a heavy sigh. “My displeasure with Musa is long and storied. Suffice to say, I do not approve of how he left Parthenia… to be shunned by the entire village for no other reason than the color of her skin. He panders to those in the village who still believe in ancient superstitions to retain power. It has been this way for nearly three decades.”

“Was the previous chieftain like that too?” Spike asked.

“Musa’s father, Sizwe, was a reformist. He invited other nations to Zebrica, so that our people could modernize as a society and catch up with the rest of the world. For a while, his policies worked but right around the time Musa came of age, there was a terrible accident. Sizwe fell while climbing and broke his back. It left him paralyzed for the remainder of his days.”

Spike bit his lip. “I assume he was no longer able to fulfill his duties.”

Zecora shook her head. “In essence, Sizwe became an invalid due to complications from his injuries. A council of elders was gathered to enact a transition of leadership. Musa had always craved power and was all too happy to take his father’s place, no matter the price.”

“Sure, he sounds like an opportunistic sleazeball but I wouldn’t go so far as to call him evil.”

Zecora glanced over at her daughter who was busy washing dishes and cleaning up the table. “Someday, Dragon Lord, when you have children of your own to protect and cherish, you will understand why I feel the way I do. But enough about that! Let us move onto another topic of conversation. Has the healing balm that Theni made hastened your recovery?”

Spike shrugged. “So far as I can tell. I’m not sure how long it’s going to take for me to recover.”

“Such is the nature of healing. Best not to rush it, and cause greater harm to yourself.”

Spike nodded in agreement. “Duly noted. Still, I’d like to get some exercise if possible.”

“I would have advised you to do so anyway. It helps to keep your muscles limber. For the time being, stick to walking and simple stretches. No physical activity more strenuous than that. Before you ask, I will be blunt and just say it: sexual intercourse is considered strenuous.”

Spike’s cheeks flushed. “Erm—well—I wasn’t going to mention that particular activity.”

Zecora cocked her brow. “You did not need to. A virile young man with two beautiful women at his beck and call is a busy one in the bedroom. I am certain that your partners shall understand.”

Spike cleared his throat, eager to change the subject. “Are you ok with Theni joining us?”

“In terms of marriage or journeying?”

Spike waved his hands. “The latter! I just wanted to make sure you approved.”

Zecora laughed at his expense. “Parthenia is her own woman. She is more than capable of making her own decisions. Traveling the world has been her dream since childhood. Who am I to deny her that experience? Besides, I am confident that you and the girls shall keep her safe.”

“I-I was afraid you were going to place a curse on me or something. Heh.”

Zecora cupped Spike’s chin in the palm of her hand. “I have noticed how my daughter looks upon you with sparkling eyes, Dragon Lord. I can honestly say that I understand her infatuation. You are strong, brave, and kind. The makings of a good husband. A leader too, perhaps.”

“Hold on! I never—”

Zecora clicked her tongue. “Be gentle with her. Parthenia’s fear of men is not yet gone.”

“Only if she wants to take our relationship in that direction.”

Zecora let go of Spike’s chin and smiled. “Good answer. Far too many women in Zebrica get treated like property instead of people. I would not have you mistreat Parthenia the same way.”

Spike let out a ragged sigh as he unclenched his sphincter muscle. A wave of relief enveloped his body like a warm blanket on a cold night. Nothing in the world was more terrifying than a protective mother. Even more so when she was a powerful shaman. “You have my word that I would never treat Theni like a slave. The Wyvertii way of life isn’t for everyone, so I’ll leave that up to her if she wants to become our mate. Ember & Sunset would have to approve, of course.”

“Naturally,” Zecora agreed, “it is the best way to preserve our shamanistic traditions.”

Spike chuckled. “I keep forgetting that shamans don’t normally wear clothes either.”

“Parthenia has lived that way, without shame, since I found her as a babe. Shamans do not conceal their bodies, as modesty was long ago deemed superfluous. Nudity is our way of honoring nature and the spirits. I taught my daughter that concept from a very early age. However, she has read about textiles through the books I have kept stock in the library.”

Theni approached Spike’s side and rubbed her hands together. “Forgive me, Lord Spike. I know it is unusual for a woman to take interest in reading. But I love books! They have always fascinated me, even when I was a young girl. Do you have a library at home too?”

“Not in the Dragon Lands, no. My sister has quite a large collection back in Ponyville. Maybe we can go visit her someday. I’m sure Twilight would be happy to meet a fellow bookworm.”

Theni smiled. “Yes, I would like that very much.”

Zecora placed her hands on Theni’s shoulders. “You have finally committed yourself to traveling with the Dragon Lord and his entourage. I sensed some hesitation on your part when we first discussed the matter, but no longer. It is alright, Parthenia. You may be honest with me.”

“Mother… I wasn’t entirely certain if I wanted to—”

Zecora embraced her daughter and began to cry softly. “I have always wanted you to be happy, Parthenia. Although I shall miss having you by my side, every mother must prepare herself for the eventual day that her daughter becomes a woman and makes her own decisions. You have dreamed of traveling around the world for so long. Go now. Follow your destiny, my child.”

Theni began sobbing, burying her face in-between Zecora’s breasts. “I shall miss you terribly!”

Zecora placed a gentle kiss atop Theni’s head and stroked her daughter’s hair in an effort to help calm the distraught teenager down. “Remember: we can always commune with each other via the spirits. Not only that, but you are traveling with a Dragon Lord who also happens to be Equestrian royalty. I am certain he can arrange transport to Zebrica.”

Spike shuffled his feet awkwardly, not wanting to interrupt such a tender moment between mother and daughter but was curious at the same time. “That reminds me. I don’t remember ever getting a response to the letter I sent back to my mother when we first arrived in Zebrica. Did anything happen to come in the mail while I was recovering?”

Zecora padded over to her desk and opened one of the drawers, retrieving a beige letter bearing the royal seal. “Princess Celestia’s response took some time to arrive, given the date stamped upon this letter. It was sent via carrier pigeon, not magic. I left it sealed as is. Here. Take it.”

Spike carefully broke the wax seal and began reading the letter.

My Dearest, Spike

I hope this letter finds you in good health. First and foremost, I want to apologize for the delayed response. We had to resort to sending postage the old-fashioned way. The wild spiritual magics of Zebrica interfered with the fire transmission spell. In fact, your letter was nearly burnt to a crisp when it arrived in my study. However, we were able to decipher most of its content.

You’ll be happy to know that the HMS Silver Shadow did not sink during the storm. All the crew have been accounted for. Unfortunately, the ship suffered extensive damage but has since been repaired. As a precaution, I ordered Captain Hook set sail for Zebrica post haste. Once they arrive in port, I’ll have a courier relay a message and they can direct you back to the ship.

Love,

-Your Mother, Celestia

Theni hovered over his shoulder; voice still hoarse from crying. “What does it say?”

“Apparently, the Silver Shadow didn’t sink in the storm. It’s a huge relief. I was worried that it had capsized and everyone drowned. Not to worry! There’s plenty of room aboard for one more.”

Theni blew her nose into a handkerchief that Zecora provided. “I apologize once again for crying so much as of late. My emotional state has been somewhat… fragile, all things considered.”

Spike rubbed her back gently. “There’s no need to be sorry, Theni. We understand.”

Theni hiccupped, blushed, then folded her hands against her stomach. “Mother, I still wish to become a shaman like you. But if I travel with Spike and his mates, will I have to give up on going through my initiation ceremony?”

“There are many kinds of shamans in this world, Parthenia. You do not have to be exactly like me. Allow me to offer you some advice. Far out in the savannah, there lies a cave. Deep inside the cave, where the water is clear and cool, dwells the Great Rose Elephant Bohlale.”

Spike scratched his head. “I’m no wildlife expert but elephants don’t normally live underground…”

Zecora laughed aloud and grinned. “She is a spirit. And a powerful one at that. Bohlale represents the wisdom of ages. Prostrate yourself before her, Parthenia. She will judge if you are worthy to become a shaman. Go with confidence, my daughter. I know you shall pass her tests.”

“Must I perform this task on my own? I am afraid to travel there by myself.”

Zecora rubbed her chin in thought. “I suppose it would do no harm if Spike served as escort. Be warned! If he enters the cave at your side, then the spirits shall cast their judgement upon him.”

Spike took Theni’s hand and grasped it firmly. “That’s ok. I just want to make sure she’s safe.”

“Very well. I shall show you the way. By day’s end, my daughter will become a shaman!”

Theni made sure to bring along two large water skins enchanted with a special rune that collected moisture from the air, as the savannah was arid even on the most pleasant of days. There was also the matter of drinkable sources of water available out in the wild. Most would be concentrated near watering holes, which were frequented by predators and prey alike. Not only that but the water was often muddy and filled with parasites, requiring extensive treatment before it could be consumed safely by humankind. A risk not worth taking in her opinion.

Spike squinted while he took a sip from his skin. “It’s like an endless sea of grass out here. Are you sure the cave is up ahead? It feels like we’ve been walking around for hours.”

“I am certain. The simple reason is because we have been walking around for hours, Spike.”

Spike wiped away the sweat that had accumulated on his forehead. “Makes sense. Sorry, it’s hard for me to tell how much time has gone by without looking at a clock.”

“The position of the sun is key. Did they not teach you this in Equestrian school?”

Spike blushed, slightly embarrassed by his apparent lack of survival skills. “I was raised in Canterlot. By royalty, no less. Only recently have I started living like a true Wyvertii. Back then, I didn’t really need to know about how to survive in the bush. No time like the present, huh?”

Theni giggled. “There is no need to be ashamed. I would be honored to teach you more.”

“Maybe later. As for now, we’ve got a cave to find. How much further? I don’t see it.”

Theni pointed towards a rock formation in the distance. “Bohlale’s Tusk is just ahead. The cave itself is located deep within the rock formation. Some climbing is required to reach the entrance. You do know how to scale a cliff face at least, do you not?”

“Yeah. Of course, I do! But—erm—it’s been a while since I climbed something like that.”

Theni smile serenely. “Not to worry; I shall lead the way!”

When the two of them finally reached the base of the natural stone monolith, Spike swallowed hard, realizing that it was a lot bigger in person than it had initially appeared at a distance. Lacking any sort of proper climbing equipment, Spike took the precaution of transforming his hands and feet, so that he would have claws to grip solid stone. Theni, however, didn’t seem to need anything. She chanted some kind of spell in the Zebrican tongue and a bluish green aura surrounded her entire body. It glowed briefly for a moment, then dissipated.

“What kind of spell did you just cast?”

Theni rubbed her hands together and began stretching out her muscles. “A simple one. I humbly asked the spirits if I could take on the aspect of a lizard. It enables my hands and feet to adhere to the surface of the rock. I see that you had a similar idea with your claws.”

“It’s not safe to climb up that high without taking some safety precautions first.”

“Indeed,” Theni agreed, “Let us begin. The climb should not take too long with our enhancements in place. Please, follow my lead if you would.”

Theni began scaling the cliff face as if she were an actual lizard. It was oddly mesmerizing and graceful in a way. Spike had a difficult time keeping up with the young shaman. His climbing technique was a bit sloppy due to inexperience, and the fact that he was still recovering from the injuries caused by Djembe during their battle. When they finally reached the precipice, Theni and Spike sat down cross-legged next to each other and took a well-deserved rest.

Spike tried to disguise how exhausted he felt from the partial transformation combined with trying to keep up with a human gecko, but his labored breath had not escaped Theni’s notice. After taking her fill of water, she reached over and placed her hand on Spike’s thigh. “You are sweating quite profusely, I see. Was the climb up here too strenuous on your constitution?”

Spike took a long swig from his water skin and coughed. “As much as I hate to admit it, I might have pushed myself a little too hard today. Guess my body still needs more time to recover.”

Theni poked his chest and huffed. “Do not make light of your injuries! I swear, men are always trying to prove that they are tough and strong by ignoring the pain they feel in front of others. It is not healthy. Here. Apply more of my balm where the soreness affects you most. Relax. There is no rush to see the Great Rose Elephant. She is an immortal spirit, after all.”

There was no denying Theni’s expertise when it came to the healing arts. Spike swallowed his manly pride and rubbed the balm all over his body. When he had trouble reaching his back, Theni didn’t hesitate to help out. Her touch was gentle and soft, like that of a mother. It reminded Spike of the days he’d spent in the royal palace when Celestia would take care of him whenever he got sick. As princess, she didn’t have to; there were plenty of staff available who could do the job instead. But she felt that it was important to show how much she loved her adopted son.

Theni scooted closer, wrapped her arms around Spike’s waist, and hugged him from behind. She rested her head against his back, sighed, and closed her eyes. “There is something important I must tell you, Spike.”

The Dragon Lord gazed ahead at the savannah, a sea of rolling grass and grazing fauna. A flock of birds fluttered about in the distance. “Go on. I’m listening.”

Theni traced her fingers along Spike’s abs and nuzzled her cheek against his shoulder. “My motivation for joining your party is not based solely on my desire to travel around the world. A large part of it, perhaps, but my other reason is more personal. More selfish, one might say.”

Spike chuckled. “Selfish is not the word I would use to describe you.”

Theni’s skin flushed with nervous excitement. Her heart thundered within her breast like a beating war drum. Despite drinking so much water earlier, her mouth felt dry as desert sand. It took an enormous effort of will to find the courage to speak. “Never before in my life have I felt the way I do when I am around you. Your presence brings me comfort… and a stirring of butterflies deep within the pit of my stomach. This is all so strange and new to me!”

Spike had an inkling where the conversation was headed but he chose to remain silent.

“I think that I might be interested in you as… more than a friend.”

The Dragon Lord sighed. “Theni, are you sure this is what you want? I’m worried about what will happen to your shaman powers if we decide to make things official. I’m not going to lie; I think you’re beautiful, smart, talented, and above all else, kind-hearted. Mutual attraction notwithstanding, there’s absolutely no way I can ask you to give up being a shaman.”

“I know what my heart desires, Spike. Let us proceed into the cave together.”

Before Spike could get another word in edgewise, Theni took hold of his cheeks and pressed her lips against his. It was neither deep nor passionate, but the intent of her kiss was clear. When they finally separated, Theni offered her hand to Spike, which he took into his own. Together they ventured forth in order to face Bohlale’s trial. While Spike had faced plenty of powerful and dangerous beings during his short life on the planet, it was not without trepidation that he traveled further into the cavern. What would the elephant spirit have to say? Would she be angry? Most importantly, would Theni finally become a shaman in her own right?

The Dragon Lord decided to take in the sights instead of worrying about how the trial would proceed. Such things were nigh impossible to predict anyway. Along the walls, a turquoise bio-luminescent fungus grew that resembled an umbrella with little tentacles hanging off the sides. It bathed the entire cavern in an eerie light, which made navigating the interior possible without the use of flashlights, magic, or torches. The sound of trickling water, dripping from the stalactites above was the only sound that could be heard beyond their feet pattering against the polished stone floor. It was comforting in a way. Spike hated dark, confined spaces.

“Aren’t there any animals living down here? I’d have assumed some bats would at least.”

Theni shook her head. “This is a sacred place. Even the lowliest of beasts know it.”

“Doesn’t that make us trespassers?” Spike asked hesitantly.

“Do not worry; Bohlale is expecting us. She would have prevented our entry otherwise.”

After walking for another ten minutes, Theni and Spike reached the inner sanctum. Before them lie a beautiful lake filled with the clearest, cleanest water that either of them had ever seen. In fact, they could easily see all the way to the bottom, making the lake appear deceptively shallow. It had taken on an emerald hue from, what Spike assumed, the mineral content of the rocks. Theni sucked in a deep breath and let it out through her nostrils slowly. Even in the dim light, Spike could tell that she was trembling. As a gesture of comfort, the Dragon Lord wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her into a half-embrace. Theni felt calmed by his warmth.

“I cannot begin to tell you how nervous I am!”

Spike brushed his fingers along her bare thigh. “It’s ok. I’m here, remember?”

In her mind, Theni instinctively knew what was supposed to happen next. They would need to submerge themselves in the crystal-clear water and… after that, she wasn’t quite so certain. It was as if the spirits were calling to her but they didn’t want to reveal too much all at once. Assured by Spike’s presence, she walked forward with as much confidence as a shy, young woman training to become a shaman could. She squeezed Spike’s hand one final time.

Once the water reached their waist, Theni let go of Spike’s hand and began to float on her back. The Dragon Lord quickly followed her example. Before long, the cave became awash in a sea of vibrant colors, sound, and smells. It was unlike anything they’d experienced before. Hundreds of different animals, all glowing and ethereal surrounded them in the water. Fearing that they were in danger of drowning, Theni cried out, only to realize that she could still breathe. When she lifted her hand in front of her face, she nearly fainted because it was completely transparent.

An imposing elephant with rose-colored flesh and pearly white tusks appeared in the center of the “room” as if by magic. In fact, Theni pondered, it actually was magic. Spirit magic, to be precise. Never before had she felt so insignificant, compared to such a magnificent creature. With the utmost respect and humility, she showed reverence to the spirit by prostrating herself. Or at least as best as she could without a physical body. The elephant simply nodded.

“Oh, Great and Wise Bohlale! We have come seeking your guidance this day.”

The spirit extended her trunk and patted Theni’s head as a mother would with her child. “Indeed. You are welcome in my sanctuary, Parthenia. Tell me; do you wish to become a shaman?”

“Yes, your eminence. I have dreamt of this day since I was a girl.”

Bohlale snorted. “Yet, I sense the seeds of doubt within your soul. What troubles you, child?”

Theni hesitated to answer, rubbing her incorporeal hands together. “Mother always taught me that a shaman must be devoted to her craft. I feel that I am but… I also care deeply for another. Can I still be true to the ways of the spirits if I desire the love and comfort of husband’s touch?”

Bohlale let out a trumpeting laugh that seemed to echo eternally. “Sweet, Parthenia. Love is a gift that should be cherished by men and beasts alike. I would not deny you this. What your mother taught you was… a misguided effort meant to protect you from the cruelty of others.”

An ugly truth that Theni had known for her entire life, crept back into her heart. Subconsciously, she went to cover her pale cheek, only to find that Spike was already cupping it with his own. “She wanted me to find the right man. One who would see me for who I was, instead of how.”

“An astute observation. To answer your question: I deem you worthy of my blessing.”

A confusing rush of emotions assaulted Theni’s senses. Excitement, Hope, Trepidation, and Love. She took in a non-existent breath and blew it all out at once. “Am I a shaman now?”

“Have faith, child. First, I would have words with your companion.”

Spike kneeled before Bohlale. “What is it you wish to know… great pachyderm?”

The spirit looped her trunk around Spike’s waist and hoisted him into the air. “What an interesting man you are, Prince Spike Sol Invictus. Or should I address you as Dragon Lord?”

“Titles aren’t that important to me. Just Spike is fine.”

Bohlale set him down and peered directly into his soul. “Nor do I hold them in high esteem. I see in all directions, through space and time. My wisdom is vast beyond the ages. I know that you are a noble being, Spike. It is no surprise to me that Parthenia has grown to love you.”

“I feel the same way about her.”

Bohlale’s eyes flashed. “Then I charge you with protecting my chosen. Speak, Dragon Lord. I would have you swear an oath to me. From now, until your bones crumble and become dust, shall I hold you to it. Do you take Parthenia to be your mate? To cherish and love her?”

“Upon my honor as Dragon Lord, I swear it.”

Bohlale pointed her tusk at Spike’s heart and pierced it. He didn’t feel any pain but a strange warmth filled his entire soul. It was like being cloaked in a mother’s love. “Hence forth, I declare you and Parthenia life-mates. Parthenia, kneel before me. I shall grant you my boon.”

A brilliant rose-hued aura enveloped Theni’s body as she levitated in the air. Runes, much like those painted on her mother’s body, began to appear all over her metaphysical skin. The most prominent of which was a stylized caricature of the sun, representing life, that materialized right below her belly button. When the ceremony concluded, the pair found themselves back in the cave but laying flat on their backs near the shoreline. They noted, with unrestrained relief, that their bodies were no longer incorporeal. Bohlale’s reflection shimmered on the lake’s surface.

“Whenever you call upon the spirits, Parthenia, my runes will appear on your body. I have bound them to the very core of your soul. Fret not, for this is something to be celebrated. With my blessing, I grant you the title of shaman. Go now, young ones. Know that I am listening if you need me.”