Author's Note

Hey everyone! I hope you are ready for the rest of the chapter, because here it is!

Fair bit of warning, I don't have my usual editor due to certain reasons, so I do apologize for some grammar issues, otherwise enjoy!

Prep for the summit

During my first week working alongside Godbrand, I learned many things about the most common threat to the Griffonstone kingdom, dragons. Both species are fiercely territorial and are also carnivorous, meaning fights over hunting ground is impossible to avoid. With so many battles the griffons took the time to make note of their enemies, chronologize all they could about dragons, from the types to their size and so on. Ironically it sounded like the book of dragons from the How to Train your Dragon movie. However, the book wasn’t nearly as detailed, hell it was no bigger than a smaller pamphlet.

The information is fairly basic due to dragons having the same qualities as any other. There were baby dragons like Spike, who despite their young age could perform great feats with their fire, as well as having the ability to soak up magic just as quickly as to help them grow. Then there were teenage dragons, these particular dragons had greater fire control and could fly faster than a large adult dragon, but due to their less than mature attitude they tend to get into more fights than they really should, often biting off more than they can chew.

Next, are the adult dragons. These are dragons who spend most of their days collecting treasures in order to attract mates so they can reproduce. In a way they are similar to penguins when they build their nest. And being more mature than a teenage dragon they are less likely to get into unnecessary conflicts, the only exception being when they raid places that may have bits and other valuables they want.

One would think that the adult stage would be the pinnacle of a dragon’s growth, but there is one last stage that only a rare few dragons may achieve, the colossal class. This class is the only one that dragons with superior genes can reach. Dragons have naturally long-life spans, some stop growing once they attain adulthood, but for those who can go beyond is a new story. Colossal dragons have an even longer life expectancy and grow stronger with age. Due to their longevity, they are considered the wisest and most experienced when it comes to combat, because of this very few dragons would dare to invoke one's wrath or be foolish enough to pick a fight with them. Only the might of another colossal dragon could ever be a match for one, the battle between two titans causes the very earth beneath their feet to rumble.

Of course, the current dragon lord is a colossal class, and will be attending the summit……lord help us now.

As I made my way towards the barracks, I tried to think of a way to have Godbrand tell the soldiers to not say or do anything that could lead to the dragon lord’s wrath. I know the griffons have a bitter attitude to any dragon that’s not myself, which is what worries me the most in all things. My main concern was talking to him about an evacuation plan should the dragon lord become aggressive. This may seem rude on my part for assuming he would, but given that it would take only one blast of fire from him to set Griffonstone ablaze, I’d rather minimize any casualties.

When I rounded the corner that would point me in the exact line of sight of the barracks, I found myself shocked. They were empty.

On even a slow day, the barracks should be busy, with recruits and soldiers training either around the building or in the air above it. Yet no such thing was happening as of this moment, not a griffon soldier to be seen. I glanced around to make sure I wasn’t missing something, but there was no commotion going on, I couldn’t even hear anything inside. “Are they running some kind of drill for the summit?”

“Hey Noir!” A familiar voice called from above, and when I looked up, I saw Gallus swooping down to land next to me. “What are you doing here all alone.”

“I came here to see about talking to Godbrand about the dragon lord.”

He shook his head and smiled. “They are preparing the area where the summit will be held.” That threw me for a loop. I had figured the summit was to be held over at the castle. Gallus must have noticed my confused look, as he gently bumped my shoulder. “Come on, I’ll show you what I meant.” With a jump and a flap, he was up in the air, and I quickly followed behind him.

The two of us flew a good distance away from the kingdom before dropping altitude. We flew slowly down the mountain until we came to an incredibly large opening near the base of the mountain.

If my memory serves me right, this clearing wasn’t here before. I remember there used to be thick clusters of trees that once stood where we were flying. Looking at it now, it was clear that the griffons had cleared the area away themselves, which in my opinion now made sense. The wood they used to help rebuild the kingdom had to come from somewhere, and what better places than just below the mountain?

As we got closer to the ground, I saw that the griffons had made an enormous pile of gems, all carefully piled up near the edge of the clearing alongside some tables that had white cloths covering them. If I had to take a guest, I would think they gathered all those gems for the dragon lord.

Soon we touched down on the ground, and watched as many griffons prepped the areas, setting up tables, awnings and chairs. The ground had been covered in marble tiles, the entire clearing was covered in them, making it less tacky than having a summit on the grass. There were also marble columns circling the clearing, with fine velvet cloths that draped between the tops. Green vines with wide leaves wrapped around the columns to add a bit of décor.

All in all, it was a well decorated area to hold a gathering of royals and diplomats. I was thoroughly impressed by the whole thing and knew that the griffons were prepared for whatever may come. Not to mention should the dragon lord become aggressive it wouldn’t be as easy for him to set the kingdom ablaze. While I was just assuming he would, I needed to make a mental note to not let myself jump to conclusions.

Now what really piqued my curiosity was the mountain of gemstones piled high near the clearing. Griffons don’t usually mine for gemstones, given that compared to bits they aren’t as valuable. I’m well aware that gemstones are abundant in this world, that still didn’t explain where they got them all. “Hey Gallus where you guys find all those gemstones? Is there a mine you guys found recently?”

At this the blue griffon shrugged. “I actually don’t know. See while preparing for the summit, the queen ordered us to follow her to a nearby mountain and when we got there, the mountain of gemstones was already there waiting for us.”

While I was surprised by this news, a thought occurred to me. Gallus said a nearby mountain, and that Glenda may have sought out the help of the gem canines for help. I’d have to ask her myself to be sure, but there was a good chance that was the case, since we both promised to keep their existence and whereabouts a secret.

At the very least I the dragon lord should be somewhat appeased by the mountain of gemstones. Looking it over I could probably guess that it would be maybe three, or if we’re lucky five whole mouthfuls for a colossal dragon. Since I fought one way back when, I can accurately say that my measurements are spot on.

As I was looking over the clearing and considering what we could add to make it more suitable for foreign leaders, I caught a glimpse of one griffon flying from the top of the mountain before he suddenly began to dive down. I was worried that he might have been injured, but once he got close enough to the ground, he flexed out his wings gliding over me before floating downwards in a spiral. “Sir Noir, important news!” He called out as he galloped towards me. “The ambassadors from Zebrica are here, and her highness has requested your audience immediately.”

Flying as fast as I could back to the castle, I caught a glimpse of the envoy coming up to the castle. At the castle entrance Glenda was already waiting along with four guard standing sentinel. Gliding downwards I took up a spot next to her and smiled. “I wasn’t expecting guests so soon. Did I miss something?”

Glenda, who had a rather pleased look on her face, smiled and shrugged. “I invited some of the foreign leaders to come visit early, and if they liked to stay in our guest rooms here in the castle.” When she turned her head to look at the envoy, I saw that she had some blue frosting on the side of her cheek. I couldn’t help but chuckle, to which she heard. “What?” she asked curiously.

“You got a bit of frosting on your cheek there.” I said playfully, which made her cheeks blush as she tried to wipe it off, only missing each time due to her being flustered. “Here allow me.” Without really thinking about it, I leaned in and gave her cheek a lick. Cleaning off the blue frosting. “Mmm Blueberry.” When I looked back at her I saw the blush on her cheeks had only spread, and the feathers on her body puffed up suddenly.

It took me a few moments to fully understand what I had done, causing myself to become flustered and blush as well. However, our moment of awkwardness was cut short when Gallus landed next to us. “If you two are done flirting, our guest is about to step out.”

The two of us quickly turned our attention back to the more important matter, thankful for distraction from what just happened. The envoy consisted of one decorated carriage, with what I imagine to be zebra bodyguards trotting alongside it, one positioned in each corner.

When the group entered past the castle walls, the carriage came to a stop, and the door soon opened shortly after. Stepping out of the carriage was an all too familiar face along with a sense of ease that washed over me, as well as those around me including Glenda. With a cream white coat accented by not only her golden stripes, but mane and tail were none other than princess Zaya.

Glenda nudged my shoulder and gave me a look as if to ask for confirmation, to which I nodded. When we had first met Zaya, Godbrand made sure to inform her about who we had met as well as the odd sensation we had felt when meeting her. Of course, without actually experiencing the feeling we felt that time, she didn’t quite understand what we were talking about. But now here in the present seeing her up close, I’m willing to bet she now understands what we were implying.

The zebra guards escorted the princess down the walkway to the castle, looking stern but like all those around us calm and collected. When Zaya had reached the stairs, her guards lined up shoulder to shoulder at the base of the stairs, while Zaya continued her way up. No doubt either a sense of trust in us, or that she had asked them to do so.

When she reached the top of the stairs, Glenda nodded to the guards who all stepped far back to give us space with the foreign princess. Both Glenda and I offered her a bow in respect to which she returned in kind. “It is both an honor and privilege to have you visit us here in Griffonstone.” Glenda said sweetly with a smile.

“And it truly is an honor for me to be the representative of Zebrica for your glorious summit Queen Glenda.” Zaya returned the kind tone with one of her own and bowed. “I am princess Zaya, first daughter of our sultan.” Her eyes soon looked at me and her smile widened. “And it is good to see the dragon who valiantly came to my rescue all those months ago and in good health I see.”

Glenda looked at me with a sly smirk knowing what would happen next. When I had first met Zaya I hadn’t received my voice back then, but here and now I could speak freely. Gently clearing my throat, I spoke. “The pleasure is all mine princess, and it is good to see that you are in good health as well.”

To no one's shock, Zaya was caught off guard and almost left dumbfounded as she heard my voice. “You can speak now?” I nodded while Glenda smiled and shook her head laughing slightly. The initial shock didn’t seem to last as sigh smiled and seemed to accept it rather quickly. “Well, I’m so glad to hear it, and if I may be so bold? You have a rather charming voice, almost like a true noble.”

“You should hear his old man's voice.” Glenda muttered under breath and quickly looked away when I turned to look at her.

“I do appreciate the compliment of your highness, and now that I can speak, I was hoping that I could have a word with you?” I asked gesturing a walk around the castle garden.

She seemed curious about my offer and nodded. She looked at her guards and gave them a gesture with her hoof, which earned her a nod from each zebra guard as they stood firmly in place. With that now taken care of, I guided our guest to the gardens while Glenda stayed behind.

As we walked through the garden looking at all the beautiful flowers and ivory statues, I noticed Zaya looking up at me from the side of her eye. “So, is this the part where you ask about my unique talent?”

I was caught by surprise, but never let it show on my face. I should have guessed I wouldn’t be the only one to wonder about that unique feeling I felt before. After a moment of composing myself, I spoke. “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t at all curious. From the way you already knew what I was going to ask, I can only assume that I’m not the first who is curious about the wave of calm you bring.”

Zaya smirked playfully as she walked ahead of me, letting her soft long tail brush under my chin as she passed. “Yes, you are correct in that deduction, but many who question my power have yet to understand its true strength. And only my father knows how it works, and told me to keep it a secret.” She stopped a good three feet ahead of me before turning around. “Although I do have this fun little game I like to play when someone asks to know about it.”

Peaked by curiosity I sat down. “And pray tell, how does this game go? And what do I get should I win?” I asked now ready to play.

Still smiling, Zaya too sat in place. “The game is simple really. You take a guess on how my power works, and what triggers it. Should you figure the answer out in one try, you win. And as for what you get for winning, you shall get the honor of being the first to win and to know how it works.”

Now this sounded like a fun game, although I was worried about something. “Let’s say I play. What happens should I lose?”

She shook her head. “Oh nothing, I’m not the kind of zebra who would ask for something in return simply for guessing.” She added with a shrug of her shoulders.

‘A game where I have all to gain but nothing to lose? Seems way too tempting to pass up.’ I thought to myself as I already knew what her power does and how it is triggered. “The answer is fairly simple really. It causes those who see you to be at ease, and is triggered by sight.”

Zaya had a look of amused surprise by my quick guess, and now looked equally curious. “And pray tell, how did you come to that conclusion?”

I thought back to everything that involved Zaya, and decided to explain how I know her power. “Well, I thought about it hard enough and figured it had to be a sight thing. I know this to be true based on our first meeting. Until I physically saw you, I hadn’t felt the wave of calm wash over me. Which ultimately means in order for your power to work, you must be seen.”

The zebra mare kept her expression neutral as she moved a hoof to scratch under her chin. “Hmm well couldn’t my power be a case of pheromone, or perhaps I have the power to enchant any males I so desire?” She asked.

I figured she was trying to throw me off my guess, giving me other logical reasons for her unique ability, but I wasn’t going to be swayed so easily. “Nice try, but neither of those are correct. See I know it doesn’t have to do with pheromones, because when you were in a carriage both times we met, I wasn’t influenced, and I have a great sense of smell even if someone is in a carriage, I’ll pick up their scent.” I smiled as she nodded in approval. “And as for the power to seduce only males, I know that to be false as well, since even Glenda was put under your influence.”

With no way to debunk my reasons, Zaya gave a clop of her hooves in approval. “Very good Sir Noir, honestly you are the only one who's actually fully understood my gift.” She smirked as she glanced away. “Or at least most of it, there is still one factor you don’t know about it.”

I smirked back as I spoke again. “You mean the fact that it’s not guaranteed to work on everyone?” Finally, Zaya looked back at me in utter shock at what I said. “Yeah, I figured it out based on past events. You see your power only works on those willing to consider a calm intent, but it fails on those who are set for conflict, am I right?”

Her lips opened and closed for a moment as she was still stunned by my quick analysis. “Alright now you have me curious, how did you know about my gift’s one weakness?”

Now brimming with pride, I was all too eager to explain how I knew. “I got my answer based on your carriage.”

That threw her for an even bigger loop as she now looked baffled. “My carriage? How could that tell you about my weakness?”

“Because your carriage has blinds over it. If your unique power is triggered by sight alone, then why would it have blind and curtains covering you from being seen by anyone? The answer is because not everyone is affected by your gift. I imagine those with cruel or malicious intent cannot be swayed by your gift making it useless. And since you are royalty, you need to stay hidden, less those who’d want to use you as leverage against your father could easily capture you.”

When I finished my Sherlock Holmes moment, I looked at Zaya who suddenly started to laugh with one hoof pressed against her belly. “Never in all my years did I think someone would not only figure out the cause of my gift, but also know its weakness!”

She kept laughing for a good minute before finally calming down and relaxing, whipping tears from her eyes. “My word please forgive me, I’m honestly happy that someone was able to truly figure out my gift. Most just make random guests, some of which are good guesses, but none truly understand.” She then gave me another grin. “Now that you know how my gift works, what do you plan to do with that knowledge?”

“Why, I plan to use it for both our benefits.” I stated calmly as she now sat close to me and gestured for me to continue. “You see the dragon lord may very well be attending our little summit.”

Her eyes widened. “The dragon lord? If that is true, how would his arrival be a benefit? I don’t think I need to inform you that the dragons for the dragon land have been nothing but hostile to my county as well as this one. So I fail to see how you can be so sure my gift is going to be of use, surely you understand most dragons are cruel and ruthless beasts…..no offense.” She said shyly in her last statement.

I held a paw up and gave it a good wave. “None taken, and while you are somewhat right about most dragons, that only applies mostly to the teenage dragons who usually do all the harassing to both our countries. However, the dragon lord is a different story altogether. He may be abrasive at best, but he also has the collective wisdom from the ages to know how to govern his dominion well enough to possibly build alliances. And if he is coming here that means he is willing to consider the idea, meaning your gift should affect him enough to keep him calm.”

Zaya took my words into consideration as she stood up and paced back and forth around the garden, humming to herself. This went on for a good five minutes before she made her choice. “If there is a chance that it could work, I am very interested, too many of our crops are burned by delinquent dragon teens, so having the chance to put a stop to that is best for my country.” Turning around she held out her hoof for me to shake. “I am willing to help with your plan, on the condition that should negotiation go south you won’t hold it against us for taking care of our own safety first.”

I couldn’t blame her for keeping her country in mind when it came to safety, nor wanting to help us for their own benefits, seeing as I’m doing the same myself. Gently taking her hoof in my paw I gave it a firm shake. “It’s a deal. With any luck we both may end up coming out of this with a brighter future.”

With our talk over we made our way to return back to Glenda and the others. That’s when Zaya threw one hell of a curve ball. “So are you and Queen Glenda mates?”

The question itself threw me so off balance that I actually fell flat on my face from shock. I heard her giggle as I pulled my face out of the dirt with a look of bafflement. “W-what gave you that idea?” I asked too flustered not to stutter.

She giggled cutely as she walked past me with a sway of her flank. “I saw the way you licked her cheek on our way in, and how you two became quite flustered. I’m curious, do dragons take on multiple mates, like we zebras do?”

That question also had me stunned, to the point it took me a few moments to register it. “W-why do you ask?” I didn’t even bother to try and deny that me and Glenda weren’t a thing, because of this random question.

She looked back at me with what I guess to be a flirty smile as she let her tail brush under my chin for the second time today. “Because I can tell you have the potential to become a mighty ruler, and if you were to wed into nobility of two countries, it would only benefit my own country to have a ruler as cunning and powerful as you.”

With a wink and another wiggle of her flank Zaya trotted away with a pep in her step, leaving me too stunned and dazed to really think or say anything. The only thing I could truly say was this. “These girls are gonna be the death of me.”