sidhe_faerie | Entries tagged with ogham-duir

Nano Writing prompt 2:

Write a journal entry from the perspective of one of your main characters where they reflect on everything that has happened." — Dallas Woodburn, Camp Counselor

Dear Diary

I've just come back from speaking to the Ancient. There are no other seers in Ogham-Duir that I could go to. I'm related to all the others. He showed me my future in the pool. I was surprised and a bit disappointed.

The child I carry is a son. I even saw my son's face. He looks like my father. I suppose I am a little pleased at that.

I will have to keep my heart open for him. Its not his fault he is a boy and my first born. I wanted a daughter but I shall have to bear the disappointment and not let it be visited on his head.

Seeing the difficulty Aura is having to conceive, I feel guilty. I conceived so easily. Aura and Dragas have been trying to conceive since they married. Even Victra conceived without much trouble. I think the delay with Victra and Klaus was due to shyness more than anything else.

Fawnard doesnt even know about it yet but Im sure he will be pleased. His own little warrior to train up. I should tell him soon. I will have to step back my training and he will want to know why.

Dionne already knows. She puzzled it out before I did. She's more worldly and has been by my side since childhood. She knows more about my habits and working than I do!

I hear someone coming and by the sound of things its Fawnard in hie armor. I think I will tell him now. No time like the present…..

(262)

Love Not Remembered

The mist was thick as Millah walked through the forest. The smell of decaying leaves hung in the air. There was a light breeze making the trees sway eerily in the misty moonlight.

She kept to the path. It wasn't far but she had never traveled the path in the night. She was regretting her decision not to wait for sunrise. She pulled her cloak tighter around her and kept walking.

She froze in mid stride when she heard a rustle on the edge of the path.

"Is someone there? Please. I'm just going to the cottage by the river. I mean you no harm."

A black dog came from the bushes and sat down in the middle of her path. It was the biggest dog she had ever seen.

"Nice doggy. I'm just going to be on my way now."

"He doesn't like it when people call him doggy. A strange man voice told her.

Millah turned to the voice behind her. "Please. I don't have anything of value."

"I'm not here to rob you." He told her as he walked onto the path."The cottage by the river? Are you a mundane? The wise woman in the cottage hates mundanes."

"I don't know if I'm a mundane or not. That was why I was going to the wise woman." Millah glanced back at the dog. "Why doesn't he like to be called doggy?"

"He's half hellhound. Doggy is for yappy little dust mops that sit on laps and eat from crystal bowls. Shall we walk with you? I'm Jonas and he's D'Gar."

"I.. I don't know you." Millah hesitated.

"I have traveling papers from the High Priestess of Una." Jonas took a folded piece of paper out of his pocket and offered it to her. "She and her sisters are close personal friends of mine."

"Are you an assassin?"

"No. I'm a shadowwalker. I act as a mercenary sometimes." Jonas smiled.

"Sounds like an interesting life. I think I'll go now." Millah looked at D'Gar and hesitated. "Um. Will he let me pass?"

"Of course." Jonas smiled. "Rest D'Gar."

Millah walked toward DGar and the hellhound laid down and wagged his tail. She kept walking on the path to the cottage.

Jonas walked up and scratched DGars head. "She doesn't remember us. Those bastards must have wiped her memory. I wonder why they sent her here. The wise woman in the cottage will help her. There's nothing we can do but wait for her memory to return."

(419)

Fandom: Ogham-Duir (original fiction verse)

Prompt: The Tales of the Seven Keys

WC: +3K

The Last Hope for Atlantis

"Captain! There's something floating in the water!" The lookout called from the crow's nest.

Captain Warden walked to the rail and raised his scope. "Haul it out and bring it on board." He looked around. "We're close to where Atlantis fell. It might be something important."

Two sailors dived in and put ropes around the crate and secured it. They climbed back aboard and hauled the crate up on the deck.

The crate was wooden and covered in a strange writing.

"Should we open it?" One of the sailors asked.

Captain Warden ran his hand over the top of the crate. "No. We'll take it to Ogham-Duir. The High Priestess may want to look at this writing first. We'll sail into Dragontail Cove. We can take it on shore there and send word to Lady Aura. Secure it on deck."

An hour later, Dragontail Cove came into view. A familiar ship was already anchored there and unloading cargo. Captain Warden smiled when he saw it was his friend, Captain Grim Ranger.

"Bring the ship alongside Captain Ranger's vessel." Captain Warden instructed the helmsman.

Grim Ranger waved as the ship came alongside.

"Warden, what brings you to Dragontail Cove? Don't you usually dock at the harbor at Ren?" Grim called out.

"Yes. We found something in the water and I need to show it to Lady Aura."

"What is it?" Grim leaned against the rail.

"It's a crate with some kind of writing on it." Captain Warden pointed to the crate on deck. "We found it in what should have been the location of Atlantis."

"Atlantis?" Grim frowned. "Have your men lower it onto the longboat and I'll contact Lady Aura. Her grandparents lived on Atlantis."

"Really?" Captain Warden scratched his head. "But Atlantis exploded decades ago…."

"Draconians live longer than you think." Grim smirked.

Captain Warden shook his head and waved two sailors over. "Lower the crate onto the longboat."

"I'll call out to Aura. Get on the boat and I'll join you in a minute or two." Grim walked below deck until he was in shadow. "Aura! Aura, can you hear me?"

In the sitting room of her chambers at Crystal Palace, Aura looked up from her book. She looked in the shadow in the corner "Grim? Is that you?"

"Yes. You need to meet me at Dragontail Cove. Captain Warden has something for you to look at." Grim told her.

"I'm at the palace. I'll be there in a half an hour. I'll be riding." Aura put her book on the table and rushed down to the stables.

Grim came back on deck then climbed down to the longboat to join Captain Warden and the crate. "Lady Aura is on her way."

"How…? No, don't tell me." Captain Warden sighed. "It's one of those shadow walker things."

Grim laughed. "Yeah."

Aura nudged the pony that she was riding into a gallop. She turned off the main road and onto the path to Dragontail Cove. She slowed the pony when she spotted the two men standing on the beach. She guided the pony up to them and dismounted.

"Hello Grim. Captain Warden, it's nice to see you again." Aura smiled. She handed the reins to Grim and went to look at the crate. She traced a word on the crate. "Its Draca. I'm not not very proficient. I can speak a little but reading it is another thing. My father would be able to read it or Aunt Benna. Can we load it onto a wagon and take it to my father's house?"

Captain Warden nodded. "Yes. I want to know what it says."

Grim whistled and motioned for two of his men to load it on one of the empty wagons on the beach. "Horace is just going to have to wait on his ale."

The trio took a path to the Draconis house. Aura dismounted and went inside. She returned with a dark haired man. Captain Warden dismounted his borrowed horse as Grim jumped down from the wagon.

Grim bowed. "Lord Draconis." He nudged Captain Warden.

Captain Warden bowed. "My Lord."

"Gentleman, I hear you've found a crate with writing on it. Aura says it looks like Draca." Lord Drake Draconis climbed up on the wagon and looked at the crate. "She's right, It's Draca. Where was it found?"

"My Lord, it was found in the location of Atlantis. Do you know what it says?" Captain Warden asked.

Yes of course. Drake read the lid of the crate out loud.

"'Seven keys turned as one

Reveals the fate of the Atlantis.

A key for each of the seven beings of magick.

Each pure of blood and true of heart.'"

"What is it talking about? What keys and what are the seven beings of magick?" Aura asked.

Lord Draconis jumped down. "When Ogham-Duir was established, each of the races were given a key by the Council of Atlantis. Those may be what it's speaking of. The Dragon key is at the sanctuary. I have no idea where the others are."

"I'll have to ask Endora if she knows where the Fae key is." Aura thought for a moment. "Pure of blood? That would mean…."

Lord Draconis nodded. "You would not be able to handle a key. You are neither dragon, fae or witch. But you're the high priestess. That means that you must put a call out to the other races to bring their keys. Victra would know where the Witch's key is. That leaves Human, Phoenix, Druid and Shadow Walker.

The Druids key might be at the cloister and the Human key at City Hall in the City of Man or possibly Ren. I hope its not Ren. They might have destroyed it." Aura looked at the men around her. "That leaves two keys unaccounted for. The Phoenix key and the Shadow Walker key. Grim, do you know anything about a key?"

Grim frowned. "I'll have to ask Jonas. If there is one in this realm, he might know where it is. I didn't come to Ogham-Duir directly. I came here from Vusamsern with Lady Darkstarr."

"Are there phoenix around here?" Captain Warden asked.

"There's a nesting ground on the mountain up there." Lord Draconis pointed up near the peak of Dragon's Peak. "I haven't been up there in years. Not since Phoenixpyre died." He turned to Aura. "I'll take the crate to Tuathan Hall. Have the races gather there? We can open it when everyone is present with the keys."

"Where is that?" Captain Warden asked.

"In Crystal Spires. It's the Fae village." Aura told him. "I'll send messengers to everyone so we can get this done. I have a feeling it's important. It's strange that it has surfaced now. There must be a reason."

"I agree." Lord Draconis looked at the other two men. "We will take it from here gentlemen." He handed Captain Warden a bag of coins. "This should compensate you for your time."

"Thank you, My Lord." Captain Warden bowed. "I had better get back to my ship. I have cargo to off load in Ren." He looked at Grim. "I'll see you on my next visit, Captain Ranger." He mounted his borrowed horse and left.

Grim and Lord Draconis took the crate off the wagon and put it in the barn. Grim left with the wagon soon after.

"Father, Endora and Victra won't be able to handle keys either. We are all of mixed blood." Aura reminded him.

"That's why the three of you can use each other's magick as the Triquetra." Lord Draconis caressed his daughter's cheek. "I didn't believe the prophecy until it came true. My daughters and their fae sister with the power of fae, elemental and dragon magick combined into one ultimate magick."

"I know what you mean. We weren't sure it would work either but it did. I better go send out the messengers and you need to get the crate to Tuathan Hall." Aura mounted her pony. "I'm not sure what we will find inside but if its from Atlantis, we may find out what really happened when the city fell into the sea."

"It would be good to know the fate of those we lost. My parents especially." Lord Draconis smiled. "Give Dragas my good wishes."

"I will. I'm at Crystal Palace with him now. I long to get back to our cottage. The Royal Court is so stuffy and everyone is so formal. It tries my patience."

Lord Draconis laughed. "I hope your stay is short for their sakes. Goodbye my child."

"Goodbye Father." Aura waved as she rode off. She turned west toward Zestra when she reached the main road even though she longed to head east and back to her cottage in Una.

When Aura reached the palace, she sent out messengers to ask for representatives from each of the races to bring their key to Tuathan Hall in Crystal Spires in two days.

The messenger sent to the City of Man came back with a message saying there was no key in their city. Aura sent a messenger to Ren next to find the human key. She was surprised when the messenger returned with a message saying they would come with the Hunan key.

Ren was the last place Aura expected the key to be. All magick was banned in the Republic of Ren and magickal creatures were executed on sight. Aura thought it odd that the Council of Atlantis would give the Human key to them. If there was a reason, she couldn't think of it.

Two days later, Aura greeted the seven keyholders in Tuathan Hall. Some of the races came in groups. Victra and Klaus as well as Dragas, Lord Draconis and Endora with two Fae guards in attendance.

Aura stepped forward and cleared her throat. "Welcome to you all. We are here to see what is inside this crate and why it was necessary to bring our keys out of hiding. Gentlemen, if you wouldn't mind opening the crate." Aura stepped aside to let Dragas and Klaaus open the crate.

The two men gently opened the square crate and exposed a circular chest with seven keyholes. They gently lifted it out and put it on the floor next to the crate. Dragas and Klaus moved the crate out of the way.

There is writing next to the keyholes. It's in different languages but I recognize them. I guess that's to tell us which one is which." Aura looked around the room. "The first key is the Dragon key. The second looks like Fae, then Human, Witch, Druid, Shadow Walker, and this last one is Phoenix. Please step forward and present your keys."

"I am Lady Benna, a caretaker from the Dragon Sanctuary at Aster Cliffs and I am here for the dragons." Lady Benna stepped forward and held up the Dragon key. "I brought the key from the Sanctuary's Reliquary."

Captain Fawnard stepped forward the glanced back at Endora. "I am Fawnard, Captain of the Tuathan Guard and consort of the Queen. My Queen has appointed me representative of the Fae and given me the key from the castle vault." He held up the Fae key.

Jonas stepped forward and held up the Shadow Walker key. "I am Jonas Bagdar and I am a shadow walker. I wasn't sure why I had this but it came with me from the Shadow Realm."

A short bald man in white robes cleared his throat. "I am Buu the Bard. I have the Druids Key from the Cloister." He held up the Druid key.

A woman dressed in sky blue stepped forward. "I am Sister Nightingale of the Holy Isle. I bring the key of the Witches." She held up the Witch key.

Aura looked around the room. "Who is here for the Phoenix?"

"That would be me, High Priestess." A young man stepped forward and held up the Phoenix key. "I am Voca and I have the Phoenix key. I was sent by General Pyro. He sends his regrets. He is in negotiations for peace with the Thunderbirds at present."

A man dressed in rich purple robes stepped forward and held up the Human key.. "I am Counselor Walden of the Ren Republic. Can we get on with this? I am uneasy in a place with so many…. unnatural creatures."

"Well then." Aura stepped aside. "Insert your keys. They must be turned together for this to work."

Each representative stepped up and inserted their key in the corresponding keyhole.

Aura nodded. "Turn your keys."

The top of the device slid away into the device and three palm prints were revealed.

"Well that was useless." Counselor Walden threw up his hand and stepped away.

"Maybe not." Aura said as she looked at the device. "Victra! Endora! I believe this is for us."

The three women stood around the device. Aura put her hand on one of the palm prints then put her hand on Victra's back, Victra put her hand on the second palm print then put her hand on Endora's back. When Endora put her hand on the last palm print and closed the circle by putting her hand on Auras back a beam of light came from the center of the device.

A face materialized in the beam of light.

"Father!" Lord Draconis looked at Aura. "That is your grandfather. I thought….."

The man started to speak. "Beings of Ogham-Duir, Atlantis needs your help. If you are seeing this message the Prophecy of the Triquetra has come to pass. Please help us. We are trapped beneath the sea. We need the power of your combined magick to raise the city. All of the races must join with the Triquetra in order for this to work. The humans will hesitate but you must convince then to join you. Atlantis was once the gathering place of the races as Ogham-Duir is now. Our history and fates are as interwoven as the fabric of magick itself. Bring us back into the world for all our sakes. There is a device here like the one we have sent you. Send you magick through to us. Please. Do it quickly."

The image faded and the light faded.

Aura pulled her hand away. Victra and Endora did the same.

"Do you think it's real?" Endora asked. "Could they have survived?"

"I don't know." Aura turned to her father and aunt. "You two were the only ones alive to witness the destruction. What do you think?"

Lady Benna looked at her brother. "We should do it. I stood on the cliffs, watching as Atlantis shook, the great towers fell then the ocean covered it. I think it's possible. Atlantis would have had some form of magickal protection just as the Fae do now."

Lord Draconis shook his head. "Benna, it's been almost a century. Why now? Why not when it happened?"

"You heard our father." Benna pointed at the three women. "The Triquetra is needed to channel the magick to them."

"What if this is just some kind of plot to steal our magick?" Victra asked. "Are we sure this is safe?"

"Victra has a point." Endora frowned. "If magick leaves Ogham-Duir, we all will be unprotected. The Fae most of all."

"I say we throw it back in the ocean and get back to our lives." Counselor Walden suggested.

Aura sighed. "I say we take the chance but only the key holders and the three of us. If that's not enough to raise Atlantis then we will let things stand as they are."

"High priestess, we are not that strong." Sister Nightingale looked at Victra. "Lady you know I am but a novice. My powers are weak."

Victra looked at Aura then back at Sister Nightingale. "We will be stronger together than we are individually. We have to be."

Dragas stepped forward. "Aura, we need to move people to higher ground. And clear the boats from the harbors on that side of Ogham-Duir. That will take a day at least."

Aura nodded. "You're right. We will meet here in two days to do as they ask. Counselor Walden, you will be the guest of the Fae. I believe they have a lovely tower room you can stay in." She glanced at Endora. "I will send any message you require to your government to help them prepare."

"I don't want to go with those creatures." Counselor Walden shook his head. "Maybe some alternative accommodation can be provided?"

"You'll be safer with the Fae." Aura assured him.

Counselor Walden frowned but didn't continue his protest.

"Now that that is settled, Astoria, Brimstone, the Holy Isle, and the Insecta colony need to be warned as well as the harbors of Zestra and Ren." Aura turned to Lady Benna. "Will you see to Astoria, Aunt Benna? Victra, you need to evacuate the Holy Isle. Dragas, you take Zestra's harbor. Endora, you take the Insecta colony. Father, that leaves you with Brimstone. Anything else?"

"No that should do it." Endora motioned for her guards to take Counselor Walden into custody. "Fawnard, make sure he's looked after. I'll go to the Insecta Colony now."

Fawnard nodded. He motioned for the guards to follow him as he left for the Mist Passage.

Everyone dispersed to take care of the evacuations and prepare for the next step.

After everyone was moved and the harbors were cleared, the seven key holders and the three women of the Triquetra returned to the device at Tuathan Hall.

Endora posted a guard outside of Tuathan Hall and more guards by the Mist Passage in case things went wrong. She was the only one connected to the protective shield of the Fae. If she was hurt or lost her magick, the Fae would be unprotected.

Outside a small dragon sat near the gates of Crystal Spires. Puff could feel the worry in the air and it worried him. Not much worries a dragon, usually, but Puff sensed the need for it now. He wanted to be close in case he was needed.

Aura stepped forward. "Form a circle and hold hands. Come close to us so we may touch you to complete the flow of magick."

The key holders got into position, Aura nodded to Endora and Victra. She put her hand on the device and the other on Lady Benna's shoulder. Endora did the same putting her hand on Fawnard's shoulder. Victra completed the circuit when she put her hand on Sister Nightingale's shoulder.

"Concentrate on pouring your magick into the device." Aura told them.

The device started to shake then the ground shook.

"Hold on!" Aura called out. "Its almost there. I can feel it!"

Lord Drake Draconis stood on the top of Aster Cliffs. He looked toward the spot where Atlantis had been. He watched as the water swirled and a dome shape rose from the water. The iconic towers were gone but he could see the city under the dome.

He waited until the waves grew calm before shedding his robes and shifting into his dragon form. He flew out to the city and circled it looking for an opening. In the dome.

He was surprised when the dome retracted and another dragon came to meet him. He followed the familiar dragon down into the city. Both dragons shifted back to their human form as soon as they landed.

"Father!" Drake hugged his father. "We thought you were all dead."

"Some of us are." Retalion Draconis told his son. "We lost a few when the city fell. Its been difficult but we have managed. The Triquetra has come?"

"Yes. My daughters and their sister, a fae." Drake told him. He looked at two piles of rubble. "Will you rebuild the towers now that the city is once again above water?"

"No. The Council feels its a waste of money and time. We are few now. There is no need for them. Tell me. Ogham-Duir, how does it fair?" Retalion asked.

"Strong with magick." Drake smiled. "It's grown since you were gone. Come with me and see. Meet my daughters and their sister. I have so much to show you."

Retalion shook his head. "Not yet. Your mother wants to see you and I must tell you of those we lost before I will leave here."

In the Tuathan hall, the device shut down and everyone sighed in relief. Everyone was safe and their magick was still intact.

"Did we do it?" Victra asked. "The device just shut down."

"I'll go to Astor Cliffs and see." Endora didn't wait for a response. She disappeared in a cloud of golden shimmer to the cliffs.

"What now?" Lady Benna asked.

"We wait for Endora to return with news." Aura started to pace.

A few minutes later Endora returned with a smile on her face.

"It's there. We did it!" Endora told them.

"What do we do with that?" Jonas asked as he pointed to the device.

"Take the keys back to their hiding places." Aura suggested. "The device should be put somewhere safe. Somewhere no one would think to look for it. Endora, you should put it in the castle vaults. No one could get to it there."

Endora nodded. "I'll have one of my men fetch a cart and take it now."

Aura rubbed her temples. "I'm exhausted. I need to rest. Take your keys and thank you for your help."

Counselor Walden shook his head. "I'm not taking that cursed thing back with me. You do what you want with it." He left in a hurry.

"Aura, send it to the City of Man." Victra suggested. "That's where it should be. I was curious as to why the Human key was in Ren so while I was on the Holy Isle, I looked in the records. Ren stole the Human key during the war with Una. Return it to where it belongs."

Aura nodded. "I'll take it on my way home. Dragas I need your handkerchief. I cant touch it."

"I've got it. I suppose I shouldn't touch it either since I'm a Druid." Dragas pulled out his handkerchief and wrapped it around the key and removed it.

Everyone else took their keys and left. The cart came and took the device through the Mist Passage to the Fae castle.The task was done and Atlantis was back in the world once more.

Dragon Drabbles (Ogham-Duir)

Drabble : The Worried Dragon
Fandom: Ogham-Duir (original verse)
Characters: Aura (dragon/human shifter), Puff (Myrdren ap Terra, Earth Elemental Dragon)

Puff nudged the bowl of macaroni and cheese away from him. Even though it was his favorite food, he wasn't hungry. He was sad.

Aura could tell the little earth dragon was upset when the came back from the dragon sanctuary.

Myra, Puff's mate, had a setback. Her illness had been improving until a few days ago.

"Puff, Myra be fine. Babycats will adjust her medication. She'll be up and around again in no time." Aura pushed the bowl back in front of him. "Eat you dinner, Myrdren."

Puff ate his dinner then went to his bed by the hearth.
(100)X

Drabble : Shifting
Fandom: Ogham-Duir (original verse)
Characters: Aura (dragon/human shifter)

Aura walked out on the balcony of the Crystal Palace. She always felt constricted when they had to be in Zestra. She had been feeling the need to shift for days. She had been ignoring it but now she couldn't any longer. Her skin was crawling as her scales threatened to erupt on their own.

Aura looked around to make sure there was no one around. She dropped her robe and took a deep breath. She shifted into a red gold dragon. She rose into the air and headed towards the dragon sanctuary.

She felt calm and free once more.
(100)X

Title: Answers for the Queen
Fandom or Original: Original (Ogham-Duir)
Rating/Warnings: PG
Word Count: 530
Prompts:
Person - Mythical creatures (dragon, faerie), Animal (horse)
Place - mountain, cave, woods
Thing - sword, Rocks/Crystals

Endora turned her horse, Sugarplum, along the path towards Dragons Peak. She was on a journey to the Sacred Cave of the Ancient. It was a journey she was dreading. The Ancient would know why she was there even before she told him.

It wasn't normal for a Queen of the Tuathe to consult with mystics of other races but since the fall of the Northern Court things were
not normal. But then again Endora wasn't a normal faerie.

Now that Endora was the only faerie of royal blood left after the attack on the Southern Court. She needed to know what threats were out there and she couldn't trust one of her own to be truthful.

The Ancient was the keeper of many secrets. His wise vision was legendary. His identity was a mystery. No one knew where he came from or how old he was. He had been in the cave when Ogham-Duir was settled. Some think he is older than time itself.

Sugarplum stopped and snorted. She shook her head and wouldn't move.

Endora looked around. She nudged the horse trying to get the horse to move. "Come now. There's nothing here."

There was a rustle in the woods near the path.

Endora looked over at the woods and pulled her sword. "Show yourself!"

A head popped out of the woods. The small green dragon with a broken horn suddenly wagged his tail. His name was Myrdren but most people called him Puff.

"Puff, what are you doing out here?" Endora put her sword back in its scabbard. "Aura will be looking for you."

The little dragon came out of the woods and stood in the road. He dug his claws into the dirt path and refused to move.

Endora dismounted from her horse. "Go on now. I have somewhere to go. Shouldn't you be hungry by now? It's nearly noon."

Puff dipped his head and looked determined not to move.

"Fine." Endora adjusted the cloak covering her wings. "You'll just have to come with me. I'm going to see the Ancient."

Puff shook his head and moved out of the way. He gave her a look of worry.

"Don't look so worried. I have my crystal sword with me." Endora climbed back on Sugarplum. "Go home. I'll be fine."

Puff wagged his tail and walked down the path in the opposite direction.

Endora nudged Sugarplum on. She wasn't far from the cave. She rode on in silence. It wasn't like Puff to be worried. Whatever was worrying Puff she would find out eventually. She rounded a bend in the path and the cave came into site.

Standing at the mouth of the cave, the ancient was waiting for her.

"Come little Queen. I have been waiting for you. We have much to talk about." The Ancient waved her inside.

Endora dismounted and tied Sugarplum's reins to a nearby tree. "Since you knew that I was coming then you know why I'm here."

"I do. Come inside." The ancient disappeared in the darkness of the cave.

Endora put her hand on her sword and adjusted her cloak. She walked into the cave to get her questions answered.

Sister Nightingale
Word Count: 405
For Mary, a nurse and Red Cross volunteer taken from us before her time.

“Lady! Someone has rung the bell at the dock.” Sister Song leaned on the table to catch her breath.

“Are we expecting anyone?” Lady Victra looked up from the document she was reading.

“No.” Sister Song shook her head.

Lady Victra stood up and grabbed her cloak. “Then I must see who it is.”

“Do you want me to come with you?” Sister Song volunteered/

“No.” Lady Victra shook her head. “Go back to the cloister and make up a bed just in case.”

“Right!” Sister Song left to do as instructed.

Lady Victra walked out of her cottage and down to the pier where a small barge was tied. She got on and held out her hand then whispered a word. The barge moved toward the other side of the lake.

When Lady Victra was halfway across, she could see a woman standing on the pier dressed in what looked like a uniform holding a covered basket.

Soon, the barge stopped at the steps and Lady Victra got out. “I am the Lady of Alban Isle. Why have you come here?”

The woman bowed. “My name is Mary. I am from the City of Man. I want to learn about your healing magick. I am a nurse.”

Lady Victra looked at her closely. “You have magick. I can sense it. It is rare in a human.”

“Some say I have the healing touch. I’ve never considered it magick before.” Mary blushed slightly.

Lady Victra smiled. “It is a gift indeed. What is in your basket?”

“I have brought seeds and cuttings of various healing plants. I thought that I shouldn’t come empty handed.” Mary uncovered the basket so that Lady Victra could see inside.

Lady Victra nodded. “We can make use of those. You must tell me how you knew to come here and ring the bell.”

“I met with the High Priestess and she told me what to do.” Mary looked nervous. “Lady Aura said that you are her sister. Is that true?”

“Yes. She is the elder sister.” Lady Victra waved her hand to the barge. “Come with me and I will get you settled into the cloister, Sister Mary. Tomorrow, you will report to Sister Jannis in the gardens.”

“Thank you. Lady Victra.” Mary got on the barge and sat at the back.

Lady Victra stepped back on the barge and spoke the magick to send it back to the isle.

Astoria Marketplace
Dragas/Aura
Prompt 3: Aromatic
Word Count: 515

Aura moved through the market of Astoria slowly. She was looking for the aromatic herbs that she used in her potions and salves. Some of the things she was looking for were from Lemuria.

She moved through the crowd of people unnoticed. She was dressed as a common Draconian. It wasn't like her to hide her identity but in recent days she felt a need for it.

As she neared the stall with the aromatic herbs on display she felt something pointy in her back.

“What do you want?” Aura asked.

“Your purse.” The gravelly voice said in her ear.

“You don't want my purse. You want to kill me.” Aura looked at the items on the cart. There had to be something she could use. She smiled when she spotted the brimstone. She scooped up a little and turned to face the man. “I'm not going to die today but you just might.”

The man laughed. “You're a witch. You can't harm me. Its against the law to harm human with magick.”

“In Una but we are in Zesra now and in the colony of Astoria. I can do as I please here.” Aura blew the brimstone into his face and snapped her fingers.

The powder ignited burning the human man and sent him screaming to the ground.

The crowd turned to see what happened. One of the guards came over and recognized Aura. “Princess, its unwise to be walking around unescorted.”

Aura sighed. “As you can see, I am able to defend myself. Take him to the dungeon. The King will deal with him.”

“Yes Highness but Prince Dragas would have us all flogged if he found out that you needed to do so. Come now and I will take you back to Crystal Palace.”

“I will get what I came for then go.” Aura turned to the merchant and bought several packets of herbs. She gave the man extra coin for the brimstone she had used.

When she was finished getting what she needed, she disappeared in a golden mist. She appeared in her sitting room at the castle moments later.

Dragas looked up his paperwork. “There was trouble?”

“How did you know?” Aura put her purchases on a table and took off her cloak.

“Your mode of transportation.” Dragas put down his pen. “I told you to take an escort.”

“Dragas, I am faerie, witch, and dragon. I can handle a man trying to rob me of my purse. He is in the dungeon and he will need a doctor.”

Dragas raised an eyebrow at her but said nothing.

“I need tea.” Aura pulled the bell cord. “It's not everyday someone tries to rob me.”

Dragas stood up and went over to her. “Next time take an escort. You are the one thing in life I can't bear to lose.”

“I'm sorry I worried you.” Aura kissed him softly on the lips. “I'm not used to needing an escort.”

“This isn't Una.” Dragas reminded her. “Things are not as idyllic.”

Aura wrapped her arms around her husband and just held him.

Mercy Postponed
Aura, Babycats, Myra, Puff (Myrdren)
Prompt 2: Compassionate
Word Count: 546

Babycats came out of the exam room of her vet clinic and smiled at Aura. “Myra is improving. The elixir from the book Lord Wyvern sent is really helping.”

“She stood up and walked around a little last night. I can't remember the last time i saw her do that.” Aura looked in the exam room and smiled. Puff was sitting next to Myra. They were both eating lollipops. “Puff tried to get her to go out in the garden this morning.”

“Puff will get her on her feet in no time.” Cats look at her friend. “What's wrong?”

“I was afraid if it didn't work we would have to….” Aura took a breath. “Help her through the veil. I prayed that she would get better but I wasn't convinced that she would.”

“I was thinking the same thing. She was in bad shape.” Cats looked in the exam room just in time to catch Puff getting two more lollipops out of the drawer. “Do you know how old they are?”

Aura shook her head. “They were hatchlings when the sanctuary was build. That was a long time ago. There are only four of the original ten still alive.”

“Ten? I thought there was only eight.”

“A pair from each of the four elements and a pair of chaos dragons.” Aura explained.

“How did the others die?” Cats asked.

“I don't remember but it should be in the sanctuary records. You're thinking Myra wasn't the only one with the disease.”

Cats nodded. “I do.”

“Aunt Benna didn't say she recognized the symptoms.” Aura frowned. “Cats, should we give the elixir to Puff too?”

“I was going to suggest a smaller dose for him. He isn't like any dragon I know. He's not been living in a controlled setting at the sanctuary. His diet is very different.”

“Macaroni and cheese and apple cider?” Aura chuckled. “They don't serve that at the sanctuary. They eat mostly fruit and greens. Puff refuses to eat when hes up there. Since Myra has been with us he sneaks her food from the castle kitchen.”

“I hope he doesn't get caught.” Cats laughed.

“I think the head cook sees him taking things but decided to let him. He swiped a whole pie last night. She had to have seen him do that. He brought it back to our chambers and he and Myra shared it.”

“What kind was it?” Catx asked.

“Pumpkin.” Aura laughed. “Dragas came in just as they were finishing it off. He wasn't happy about the crumbs all over the floor. I made Dragas take the pie pan back to the kitchen for fussing at them. He came back with a plate of starrberry scones as a peace offering.”

Cats laughed. “Thats some peace offering.”

“I better get them back before they empty you lollipop drawer.” Aura took a step into the exam room. “Time to go. Say thank you to Miss Babycats.”

Myra bowed her head and Puff ran over and gave Cats a big wet lick with his tongue.

“Puff!” Aura sighed. “Sorry.”

“I'm a cat. It's what he does.” Cats hugged Puff. “See you soon.”

Aura grabbed Puffs tail and put her arm around Myra. “Thanks Cats.” The trio turned into a golden shimmer and disappeared.

Extreme Measures
Prompt: Proposal (B5)
Rating: PG-13:
Word Count 553
Characters: Queen Taralyn, Captain Janlou, Micah

Taralyn paced nervously in the throne room. She was waiting for her captain to bring her news.

A robust male fae burst into the throne room with a younger man following him closely. “I have a volunteer Majesty. This is Micah.”

Micah bowed low to the queen. “Majesty.”

Taralyn looked Micah over. “He will do. Micah, you are a column leader?”

“Yes Majesty.” Micah stood proud.

“I have a proposal for you. My daughter, the Crown Princess Cara, is in need of a husband. She has recently returned to the realm after an unfortunate circumstance. Captain Janlou seem to think you are the man for the job. Are you?”

“I can try my best, Majesty.” Micah glanced at Captain Janlou.

Taralyn nodded. “You will formally ask for her hand in marriage this afternoon at court. The wedding will take place at the end of the month. I expect my daughter to be with child no later than six months from now.”

“Majesty, what if she refuses to perform marital relations. I mean.” Micah winced. “I had heard she prefers the company of non fae males.”

“If you need to restrain her to get the job done you have my permission to do so.” Taralyn sighed. “I need there to be a continuation of my bloodline. I care not what it takes to see that through.”

“Majesty?” Captain Janlou cleared his throat. “Maybe something less extreme may be in order.”

“I doubt my daughter is going to make it easy for him.” Taralyn shrugged. “She still thinks she’s bonded to that draconian. I will not have my bloodline polluted by the likes of those creatures.”

Micah glanced over at his captain. He looked back at the queen. “I understand, Your Majesty. I will not fail you.”

“Go now.” Taralyn dismissed Micah. “Get yourself in your dress uniform and come back for afternoon court.”

Captain Janlou waited until Micah was gone. “Taralyn, you want your daughter to be forced upon? What has gotten into you?”

“The seer told me when she was born that her daughter would be the queen we need not Cara. She gave that thing two children and neither are fit to be queen of my realm. They are not fae.”

“Taralyn, you and I know Cara isn’t all fae either. I didn't like what you did to conceive her.” The captain’s face softened. “I would have gladly become the husband of the queen.”

Taralyn shook her head. “I wanted an heir not a husband. I have no remorse for what i did.”

“I see that.” Captain Janlou sighed. “Sometimes you can be a hard ruthless woman.”

“I am the Queen of the Southern Court of the Tuathe Da Danaan. I must be hard and ruthless or we shall all perish into piles of dust.” Taralyn walked over and sat on the throne. “Micah will expect his captain to attend his proposal to the princess.”

“I will be here in case she tries to kill him.” Captain Janlou bowed. “Majesty, with your permission i need to prepare.”

Taralyn nodded. “Make sure you leave your ornamental blade at home.”

The captain smiled and left.

Taralyn sighed and rubbed her temples. Being the kind of queen she needed to be took its toll on her. She just couldn't let anyone see that it did.

Draconian Heritage
Prompt: Mutation/physical transformation (I4)
Rating: PG
Word Count: 408
Characters: Lord Drake Draconis, Lady Benna Astor, young Aura

“She is a draconian. She must learn to shift. I was already in my dragon form at her age.” Lord Drake Draconis whispered to the woman standing next to him in the doorway of the nursery. “Vivianna doesn’t think she should.”

“She's only half draconian. It will be difficult for her.” Lady Benna looked at her niece sleeping on the small cot. “I will see if I can help but please don't be disappointed if she never shifts.”

“I love her. I can never be disappointed in her.” Lord Drake's face softened at he look at his daughter. “Her mother is counting on me to raise her properly.”

“I can’t believe Queen Taralyn didn't want her.” Benna sighed. “It’s cruel to separate a mother from her child.”

“Taralyn has no use for a child not of pure blood that will never inherit her crown.” Lord Drake sighed. “She has already forced Cara into a marriage to produce an heir. The old fae doesn't waste time.”

“Any information on your other daughter?” Benna pulled him out of the doorway and shut the door.

“No.” Cara thinks that whoever took her bound her magick so that it cannot be used to track her.

“Then someone with magick took her. But who would want to do such a thing?” Benna asked.

“Someone that knows the prophecy of the three sisters. The triquetra bond.” Lord Drake looked at the closed door. “They think my daughters will be part of that.”

“The third is a fae. So Cara’s next child will be a female and fulfill the prophecy?” Benna scowled.

“Yes. When the three forms of magick combine, natural, dragon and fae, it forms the Triquetra.”

“That's why you think Aura can shift into dragon form.” Benna nodded. “I will train her when she is not with the priestess. Your other daughter will be the natural magick link.”

“Obviously whoever took her knows they will die by my daughters’ hands and is trying to keep it from happening.” Drake rubbed his shoulder. “I need to shift. I've been holding my human form too long. Stay here and keep an eye on Aura for me.”

“I will. Have a nice moonlit flight, brother.” Benna smiled and went into the nursery to watch Aura sleep.

Drake went out into the garden and stripped. He hunched his shoulders and took a deep breath. He changed form into a golden dragon and flew into the night sky.

The Shadow Realm
Prompt: Exile (O1)
Rating: PG
Word Count: 483
Characters: Grim Ranger, Jonas Bagdar, D’Gar

Jonas Bagdar stood at the rail of the ship and stared down into the deep dark water. He was lost in his thought.

Grim Ranger handed over control of the wheel to his first mate and walked over to where his friend was standing. “Missing home?”

“How long has it been since you went back to the shadow Realm?” Jonas asked.

“Far too long.” Grim rubbed his chin. “There's nothing there for me. I left to find a purpose for my life. I was a mercenary for a long time before I bought this ship.”

“You still fight though.” Jonas looked up. “You could fight for our realm.”

“No. Their view of things and mine are very different.” Grim looked down in the water. “I was never comfortable with their world domination attitude. Why did you leave home?”

“I was exiled.” Jonas sighed. “Never fall in love with a Council Leader’s sister. We were on our way to be married when the Council Leader sent the black guards to stop us.”

“And him?” Grim pointed at the half hell hound lying on the deck.

“He was thrust from the mouth of hell as a pup. I took him in and where I go so does he.” Jonas smiled. “We appeared in this realm on the road near the Zestra side of the border. This is a very bright sunny place.”

Grim chuckled. “Yes it is. It took a while for me to get used to it. The colors are bright and so is the sun.”

“I wonder what Millah is doing right now.” Jonas smiled as he looked into the water.

“My guess is she was wed to a military man as soon as you were sent into this realm.” Grim patted Jonas on the shoulder. “She is probably as miserable as you are.”

“Maybe more.” Jonas patted the rail. “I may accept my fate but she never will. I worry that it will make her desperate. She may try to find me. I never even got to say goodbye.”

“I can have Aura keep an eye out for her.” Grim offered. “Do you think she would leave the realm?”

“I don't know. She might try.” Jonas looked down into the water again. “It wasn't pleasant going through the barrier. If she leaves the Shadow Realm she will never be able to go back either.”

Grim looked into the water. “If she loves you as much as you say she may take that risk.”

Jonas looked at Grim. “Unless, she thinks I'm dead. I have no way of knowing what she was told.”

Grim looked his friend in the eye.” I will find out for you and help her if she wants to come. I still have contacts in the Shadow Realm.”

“Thank you Grim.” Jonas held out his hand.

Grim smiled and grasped Jonas’ hand. “I’m just a sucker for true love.”

Smuggling
Word Count: 1968
GYWO Stop Challenge #1

The Dragon’s Wing, a ship from Lemuria anchored at the docks of Ren. The ship was full of silk and exotic spices heading for the trading post in the center of Ren’s capital city of Allize.

The red sails and the dragon on the bow stood out among the plain wooden ships docked there. There was nothing unusual about a ship from Lemuria arriving in Ren. This was just one of many ships from that exotic land that had come and gone over the years.

Except this time the Dragon’s Wing had very special cargo in its hold. Cargo that was illegal in Ren.

Hancock Warden, the captain of the ship walked out on the deck and looked over the docks. He had made the journey many times but this time it was different.

He was taking a risk even coming to Ren with the cargo in his hold. He knew that if he was caught, he and his crew would be killed. The crime of transporting magickal creatures was punishable by death.

The captain’s nerves started to get the best of him. He turned to his first mate. “Get the cargo unloaded. I want to get away from here as soon as possible.”

“What about our friends in the hold?” The sailor asked. “The quartermaster could inspect the ship.”

“I doubt Master Barnaby would go to the trouble. He has no reason to suspect us of anything. Keep them hidden. We need to get them to the sanctuary as soon as we can.” The captain looked around. “Unload the goods as fast as you can. They are waiting for our friends in Zestra.”

“Aya Captain.” The first mate rushed below to see to the off-loading of the silk and the spices.

Captain Warden saw a friendly face approaching the ship on the docks. He smiled when his friend waved at him. “Grim Ranger, what are you doing here? Come aboard my friend.”

Grim grinned as he walked up the gangway. “Warden, you old sea dog. Running the waves with silk again?”

“Yes.” The captain chuckled. “It’s the most profitable.”

“Ladies got to have their dresses, I suppose.” Grim came to stand beside Hancock on the deck. He looked around. “Did you bring them?”

“Yes. They are in the hold.” The captain answered quietly. “What are you doing in Ren? Isn’t it dangerous for you to be here … Shadow Walker?”

“Not so loud.” Grim looked around. “As long as I don’t use my powers, no one will know that I’m not a human. I was sent by the matrons of the sanctuary to make sure your cargo gets to them unharmed.”

“You know they were not happy traveling in that crate. They are going to be in a foul mood once they are let out.” The captain watched as his sailors unloaded the ship. “I wouldn’t want to be there when that happens.”

“I have a lot of experience with them and the matrons will be there to calm them.” Grim chuckled. “You would be surprised at the things I have seen their kind do. Did you know they eat macaroni and cheese?”

Hancock laughed. “You’re kidding.”

“Nope. They also have a taste for apple cider too.” Grim smiled. “You haven’t seen one drunk. It’s hilarious.”

Hancock laughed. “I don’t think I want to. I am only doing this because of a debt I owe to Empress Mu. They were her pets but it’s not safe for them there. The Empress fears that Lemuria will soon fall as Atlantis did.”

“Atlantis didn’t fall. It exploded.” Grim corrected his friend. “The High Priestess of Una lost her grandparents when the twin towers came down.”

“You are friends with the high priestess of una?” Hancock wrinkled his brow. “What is she like? I hear she is part dragon.”

“She is half Draconian.” Grim chuckled. “She’s a good friend. I met her through her sister.”

“The Lady of Alban Isle? I hear she is quite the beauty.” Hancock asked.

“No not her. The faerie. Queen Gaylen Endora of the Tuathe.” Grim grinned. “Lady. Aura has two sisters. I have fought alongside her sister, Endora, many times. She is a fearsome warrior.”

“They sound like three impressive women.” Captain frowned.

“That’s one way to put it.” Grim chuckled.

The first mate came back to the captain. “Captain, we are unloaded and ready to shove off. All that’s left to do is pay a visit to the quartermaster.”

“I will go register the goods with Master Barnaby then we can get underway again.” Hancock looked at his friend. “Walk with me, Grim.”

The two captains walked down the gangway to the quartermaster’s office.

“Barnaby, where are you, old man?” Captain Warden glanced at Grim.

“Captain Warden and Captain Ranger. This must be my unlucky day.” The round faced portly man chuckled as he came out of a back room.

“Do you have the book ready for me to sign?” Captain Warden asked.

Barnaby pointed to a large ledger on the counter. “It’s just waiting for your mark. I was surprised that there wasn’t as much as you usually have this time. I hope that doesn’t mean there’s going to be shortages.”

“No. I just wanted to be a little lighter to get here faster before the weather turned. The seas are rough this time of year.” Captain Warden signed the book. “I need to get going. I have one more stop. I have a shipment for the lands to the west. It seems that the ladies there like their silk dresses as well.”

Barnaby laughed. As long as they have a man to pay for it, heh? Be on your way before the tide changes. Safe journey Captain Handcock. To you as well Captain Ranger.”

Grim nodded and smiled.

“Until I see you again, Barnaby.” Captain Warden tipped his hat to the man.

The two captains left the quartermaster’s office and headed back to the docks in silence.

When they reached the gangway of the Dragon’s Wing, Grim Ranger turned to Captain Warden. “Weigh your anchor and follow me to the cove. You can find off load the rest of your cargo.”

“Will do.” Captain Warden smiled. “Will your people be waiting in the cove?”

“Yes. The matrons are probably there already. They are quite impatient and a little growly if they have to wait too long.” Grim patted the captain on the shoulder. “We had better hurry before they get hungry. Macaroni and cheese isn’t the only thing dragons eat.”

“I thought the matrons were human.” Hancock scowled.

“No.” Grim shook his head. “They are draconian. They keep the dragon form to raise the little hatchlings but when they leave the sanctuary they take their human form.”

“We should hurry.” Captain Warden nodded and went up the gangway.

Both ships were underway within the hour. Grim’s ship the Phoenix led the way around the coast of Ogham-Duir to Dragon tall cove.

As the Dragon’s Wing entered the cove, Captain Warden glanced to space in the open water where the island of Atlantis had once been. A chill crept down his back. He had only heard of the fall of Lemuria’s sister world. He couldn’t imagine being this close when the fateful day had occurred.

“Captain! Look!” The first mate handed him a spyglass and pointed to the shoreline.

Captain Warden looked through the glass. On the shore, three dragons were waiting. One of them was small and wingless. He took a deep breath the steady his nerves.

“Get us as close to the shore as possible. Let’s get these dragons off my ship.” Captain Warden looked through the glass again. “I can’t believe I agreed to this.”

The ship sailed as close to the shore as possible. As soon as they dropped anchor two of the dragons on the shore rose into the air.

“Captain! What are they doing?” The first mate went pale. Are they going to attack us?

“I don’t know.” Captain Warden turned to his crew. “Everyone! Put down your weapons. Do not attack them. Stand back and give them room.”

The red and gold dragon landed lightly on the deck and turned into a woman. The sliver and blue dragon followed suit. Both women walked up to the captain.

“Captain Warden? I am Lady Aura, High Priestess of Una.” The dark haired woman introduced herself. “This is Lady Na. She is a matron at the sanctuary. I believe you have two amoogie dragons in your hold for us from Empress Mu.”

“Uh… yes My Lady. They have traveled in a crate they may be a little upset.” Captain Warden still couldn’t believe just a few seconds ago the dark haired woman had been a red and gold dragon.

“I am from their homeland. I will speak to them.” Lady Na bowed and walked towards the hold.

“Okay…” Captain Warden watched the slight woman go down the ladder. He turned to Lady Aura. “Will she be okay down there?”

“She has been a matron since the sanctuary was created.” Aura smiled. “I’m sure this is all a little unnerving. Grim says you are a silk merchant.”

“I just haul it.” Captain Warden blushed. “May I ask… Does it hurt when you change form?”

“When I was a young child it did but as I got older it became easier.” Aura smiled. “I am only half Draconian. I think that was why it was difficult for me at first. My father didn’t believe I would shift at all but I was determined.”

“I can just imagine how determined you must have been.” The captain smiled. A movement caught his eye. He stepped back in surprise at the two dragons walking alongside Lady Na.

“I have spoken with them. They wish to thank you for bringing them to safety.” Lady Na bowed. “I will take them now.”

“Thank you Lady Na.” Aura bowed.

Lady Na shifted into dragon form and then lifted into the air. She picked up the smaller dragons with her talons and flew to the cliff at the edge of the cove.

“Incredible.” Captain Warden whispered in awe.

“You and your crew are welcome to come ashore. Ogham-Duir is a wonderful place to visit.” Aura looked around at the faces of the crew.

“I would be honored to visit, My Lady.” The captain tipped his hat.

“I’m pleased. Have your men follow the crew of the Phoenix.” Aura hesitated for a moment. “Please be careful. There are many creatures that call Ogham-Duir their home.” She glanced back to the shore and smiled. “One more thing… Don’t buy a certain dragon with a broken horn a hard cider. He tends to scorch things when he gets the hiccups. “

“Yes My Lady.” The captain looked at the shore as the small dragon greeted Grim Ranger with a wagging tail.

Aura followed his gaze and smiled. “He is Myrden. He is one of the original ten dragon hatchlings brought to Ogham-Duir by Lord Aster. Lord Aster was my great uncle.”

“He’s like a great big puppy.” Captain warden smiled.

Aura laughed. “Mydren and I just came from the sanctuary. He was staying there for a while to visit with Myra. She is another of the original ten.”

“This is quiet an unusual place.” The captain chuckled.

“I agree.” Aura smiled. “I will leave you now. Welcome Captain Warden to you and your crew.”

Aura transformed into a red and gold dragon and lifted off the deck of the ship. She flew toward the shore with grace.

The captain turned toward his first mate. “Choose lots for shore leave. We are going to visit a land of magick and dragons.”

“Aye.” The first mate smiled. “Gather around swabbies. We are going on an adventure.”

“An adventure indeed.” Captain Warden laughed.

Buu the Bard
Word Count: 535

A young bard stepped off a merchant ship in the port of Ren. He took a deep breath and shifted the heavy bag to his other shoulder. It’s a new adventure for him in a new world.

“Hello friend.” A dark skinned man in black and dark purple called out as he walked closer to the young bard. “You are a bard. Are you new to Ogham-Duir?”

“Yes.” The young bard nodded. “I am a refugee from the land of dragons. I am Buu.”

“Hello Buu. I’m Grim Ranger. That ship over there is mine.” Grim looked around. “I wouldn’t speak of dragons in this port. Magick is forbidden here in Ren.”

Buu looked around suddenly afraid. “I am a bard. A teller of stories. What will they do to me?”

Grim chuckled. “You don’t want to know. Come with me. I’m on my way to visit the Druid King of Zestra. You’ll be welcome in his court.”

“Are you sure?” Buu asked.

“Yes.” Grim smiled. “Let’s get you somewhere safe.”

“Thank you.” Buu nodded.

“You will love Ogham-Duir. Just not this part of it.” Grim started walking to his ship. “This way, young Buu.”

Buu looked around and followed the man to his ship.

Less than an hour later, Buu and Grim entered the Crystal Fortress of Zestra.

Buu gazed up in awe at the jeweled mosaic of a dragon that wrapped around the white stone walls of the Great Hall.

Grim tapped Buu on the shoulder. “The king is coming this way.”

Grim bowed and sank into a shadow.

Buu knelt before the Druid King. “I am Buu, a bard and a refugee from the land of dragons.”

“I am King Hermack of Zestra. You are welcome in my court, young bard.” The dark haired king smiled at the young man. He waved the travelers over to a group of chairs by a brazier and sat down. “Come tell me your adventures.”

“Are there dragons here?” Buu pointed to the mosaic as he sat down.

“Many.” The king told him. “There is a sanctuary on Aster Cliffs for elemental dragons. The village below the cliffs has the last known community of Draconians left in all the realms.”

“What’s a Draconian?” Buu asked. “Do they worship dragons?”

The king laughed. “They are dragons or rather they have a dragon form. They can shift form between human and dragon. My dear sister in law is such a being.”

Buu’s eyes were wide with surprise.

“Lady Aura is a gentle and beautiful woman and dragon. My brother, Dragas is a lucky man.” The king leaned back in his seat. “Tell me of the dragons of your homeland Buu.”

As Buu told the king many stories, food and drink appeared for him to enjoy. It was only when the first rays of sunshine flooded the Great hall did Buu stop.

“I have kept you up all night.” The king blinked at the morning sun. “Rest and you will be my guest again this evening.” The king waved a servant over. “Follow this man he will show you to a room where you can rest.”

“Thank you.” Buu bowed to the king as he left the Great Hall.

Title: The Perfect Potion
Fandom: Ogham-Duir (Original Universe)
Characters: Endora, Aura
Author:

sidhe_faerie
Rating: PG
Length: 593
Content notes: Amnesty week 35. Experimentation (character death)
Summary: Endora goes to visit Aura while she is making potions.

The Perfect Potion
Endora sat on a stool in Aura’s kitchen watching as Aura poured various potions into bottles. “How is it that you know what to put in each bottle?”

“I trust my instincts mostly. Sometimes, I experiment with different ingredients until I find what works.” Aura capped off another bottle. “I was trained on healing herbs so it isn’t that difficult to figure things out.”

“You were trained from childhood. I’m just starting to learn.” Endora picked up a cinnamon stick. “To me this is what Dionne puts in my warm cider to you it’s something entirely different.”

Aura looked at what she was holding. “Its good grated on oatmeal too. Dragas won’t eat a bite until I put it on his oatmeal.”

“For a prince, he is certainly picky.” Endora laughed.

Aura stopped what she was doing and looked at her sister. “Are you going to tell me what happened on the quest or do I have to ask Starr?”

“He shouldn’t have come with us. I shouldn’t have let him.”

“Endora, he made his own decisions. You went off to war with no experience once.” Aura took a steaming pot of cider off the stove and poured it into cups.

“I had some.” Endora put the cinnamon stick down on the table. “The rest was training from Grim, Starr, and Pyros. Like you, I used my instincts in battle and experimented with my powers to see what they could do to defeat the enemy.”

“So I guess we both experiment with our gifts.” Aura set a cup of warm cider in front to Endora. “Here use your instincts on that.”

Endora picked up the cinnamon stick and dropped it into the cup. “I don’t think he had instincts. I thought he would find cover when I pushed him out of the way but he didn’t.”

Aura reached over and put her hand over Endora’s. “Stop blaming yourself. Drink your cider then help me with the salves. I have about three dozen orders.”

“Sure.” Endora took a sip of the spicy cider and watched as her sister portioned off herbs for the salves. It didn’t matter what anyone said she would always take the blame for what happened to Paddrick.

When Endora was done with her cider, she put the cup in the sink and took the wooden spoon from Aura to stir the oil in the large cauldron for the salves.

Aura dropped in this and that until she was satisfied. When she decided it was ready, Aura strained the herbs out and put the salve to cool in clay pots.

“There! They need to cool and then we can take them around.” Aura sat down on another stool. “How about some lunch? There is this recipe that I have been tinkering with. I would love to see what you think.”

“I would love to.” Endora smiled. “As long as you warm up some more cider.”

“Coming right up!” Aura pointed at the jug of cider and it lifted in the air to pour into the pot. A bundle of spices flew over and dropped into the pot as well.

Three hours later, they were both putting on their cloaks to deliver the medicines.

“Aura, I’m glad I came to visit today.” Endora said as she picked up one of the baskets.

“I’m glad you did too.” Aura picked up the other basket. “Let’s get this medicine delivered and then we can go see Victra.”

“Sounds like a plan to me.” Endora opened the door and held it as Aura walked out.

Title: Her Father's Sword
Fandom: Ogham-Duir: Book of the Tuathe (Original)
Characters: Endora, Dionne, Captain Janlou
Author: sidhe_faerie
Rating: PG
Length: 809
Content notes: 36. Sharp Warning! mentions of past character death
Summary: The melee is coming and Endora has to get ready.

Her Father's Sword
The annual melee was approaching and Endora found herself getting excited for the first time in a long time. She had some preparations to make before the tournament. There was armor to inspect and a team to train but her favorite part was cleaning her sword.

Endora's melee sword was different from her other weapons. It wasn't decorated and there was no crest on the hilt. It had been her father's sword. It was the one he had carried in battle the day he fell.

Endora didn’t remember much about her father. Micah died in battle when she was still young. She did remember that he loved her. That was all she needed to know.

Endora took the sword wrapped in heavy silk out of the cupboard. She carefully unwrapped it. She checked it for rust and damage. She was relieved when she found that there wasn't any.

She glanced at the ancient wooden box that had been next to it on the shelf. That held a different kind of sword, a queen’s sword. That sword had cost her dearly. It cost her the life of her betrothed and it was now a symbol of her grief.

Endora closed the cupboard door and walked over to the table. She picked up a cloth and started to polish it. She wouldn't sharpen it. Melee blades were required to be dull.

Dionne looked at the sword Endora was holding as she walked in with the midday meal. “I can't believe it's that time again. Has it really been a year?”

Endora smiled. “A lot has happened since the last melee.”

Dionne put the tray on the table. “Endora…”

“I know. I’m alive and I have my duties.” Endora looked at her reflection in the blade. “I wonder how I’ve managed it. I have fought in battles for others and quested many times. I’m still alive. Paddrick is not.”

“No, he isn’t but I don’t think he would want you to stop living because he’s dead.” Dionne took the dishes off the tray. Just like when your father died, your mother found the strength to go on. You must find it too.”

Endora smiled. “My mother never loved my father. She was forced to marry him because she needed an heir. I loved him. He may have been just a column leader but he was a great warrior to me.”

“Now you’re the great warrior.” Dionne poured water into a goblet. “Have the teams been chosen yet?”

“Yes. The list was posted yesterday.” Endora laid the sword on the table. “Hux and Sanum are on my team. Captain Janlou’s team doesn’t stand a chance.”

How many officers signed up? Dionne asked.

“Only one.” Endora picked up a slice of bread and spread starrberry jam on it. “Commander Fawnard. He was just promoted a few months ago. I’ve never met him but Captain Janlou speaks very highly of him.”

Dionne picked up the sword and looked at it then put it back on the table. “He would be proud that you use his sword.”

“I hope so. I’ve have always tried to live up to my warrior heritage.” Endora took a bite of bread. She looked over towards the cabinet.

Dionne followed Endora’s gaze. “I know what you’re thinking. Paddrick would be proud of you too.”

Endora looked down at the plate in front of her. “He would have never understood what it means to be a warrior. I don’t know why i didn’t see it before.”

“You were in love.” Dionne reached over and patted her hand. Eat. You’re going to need all your strength for the melee. Captain Janlou won’t let you win, you know. You will have to be sharp witted. He will make you work for it.

Endora smiled. “I have my father’s sword. That’s all I need to win. He will be with me on the field of battle. I’m the granddaughter of Dagda the White, General of the Tuathan Army and the daughter of Micah, leader of the third column. I cannot be defeated!”

Dionne laughed. “That’s the spirit!”

Endora picked up her father’s sword and turned it in her hand. “I think I’m actually looking forward to Janlou’s surrender.”

“I will never surrender!” The older Captain Janlou said from the doorway. “I came to bring you the troop evaluations to look over but maybe I should have brought my sword instead.” He walked in and put the papers on the table. “I see you are using Micah’s sword again this year. You are going to need more than some luck and your father’s sword to beat my army, Highness.

“We shall see about that!” Endora laughed.

Captain Janlou bowed. “Yes, we shall. Good day Highness.” He walked out the door still chuckling.

Endora nodded and looked at her father’s sword. She was up for the challenge.

Part 2
Word Count: 1259

Taralen walked into the throne room. Cara was standing with her arms crossed between two guards.

“What am I doing back here? You promised me that I could live my life as I pleased.” Cara was angry and she didn’t care who knew it.

“It is good to see you too, Cara. I summoned you here to protect you. You are in danger.” Taralen sat down on the throne.

Taralen knew what she had just told her daughter was a lie but she didn’t want to tell her the real reason she summoned her. The invaders would be looking for a Queen and a Princess so Taralen would let them find just that. Taralen assumed the invaders knew Cara was the Crown Princess but they wouldn’t realize she didn’t possess the magick everyone thought she did.

“If you wanted me to come, you could have just asked.” Cara looked at the two guards on either side of her. “You didn’t have to send soldiers to drag me back. Drake will wonder where I am. They didn’t even give me time to leave a note.”

“Endora will explain to him and your daughters. I need you here we are expecting guests.” Taralen looked at the guards. “Go settle into your chambers. I will see you at supper.”

Cara turned and walked out. The guards followed her.

Captain Janlou walked into the throne room and bowed. “Do you think having the crown princess here is wise, Majesty? The invaders who brought down the Northern Court may be on their way here.”

“I am aware of that. They are expecting a Queen and a Crown Princess. I am just giving them what they are expecting.” Taralen folded her hands in her lap.

“Does she know what’s going on?” The Captain asked.

“No and she don’t want her to be told.” Taralen gave him a look. “Tell your men not to whisper in front of her.”

“I will tell them, Majesty.” Captain Janlou bowed. “I saw the Princess and her maid at the stables getting ready to leave. You are sending her away?”

“She is the last of our line. I must keep her safe.” Taralen went to touch her ring on her hand and remembered she had given it Endora. “I took the crystal out of our portal. I sent it and the one from the Northern Court with the Princess.”

“Wise decision.” Captain Janlou took a deep breath. “The Sidhe Guard is on standby. All leave has been suspended and everyone has been called back. I have increased patrols in the castle.”

“You have everything well in hand, I see.” Taralen smiled. “If things go badly, take care of my granddaughter.”

“I will promise but I don’t think they will get by us.” Captain Janlou bowed. “Majesty, I need to attend to my men.”
Taralen nodded.

Captain Janlou bowed again and headed out.

Taralen sat alone. There were guards on the other side of the door but they would never disturb their Queen. Once again, she was doing something she shouldn’t. She was sacrificing her daughter to save her granddaughter, the future Queen.

Endora carried her travel bag and the heavy leather bag that the Queen left with her down to the stables. She had put her own jewelry in the leather bag as well. That included both of her crowns. She wore her bracelet with the faery crystal under her riding glove. She needed to be ready if they had to make a quick escape.

Dionne and Quin were talking. She hugged him.

“Are you ready to go, Dionne?” Endora asked as she put down her bags.

“Yes. I guess so.” Dionne sighed and looked at Quin. “I was just explaining to Quin that the Queen is sending us on a diplomatic mission.”

“Highness, I’ll get your mounts.” Quin bowed and walked back into the stables.

“Thank you Dionne.” Endora picked up her bags.

“He’ll be okay, won’t he?” Dionne asked.

“Our Sidhe Guard is the best in all the fae realms. They will not let our realm fall. Endora reassured her.

“That didn’t answer my question.” Dionne realized she wouldn’t get a straight answer.

Quin brought out Sugarplum and Astra. “Here you go, Highness.”

“Thank you, Quin. We’ll see you in a few days.” Endora tied her bags to her horse and got on.

Quin helped Dionne up on Astra. “Good luck.”

Endora nodded and nudged Sugarplum towards the passage. She looked back at Dionne and saw her crying.

“I’m sorry Dionne. We need to hurry.” Endora looked forward again. She nudged Sugarplum to move faster.

Aura came out on the porch when Endora and Dionne rode up.

“What are you doing here?” Aura saw the tears on Dionne’s face. “Endora, what’s wrong?”

Endora got down off her horse. “Aura, the Northern Court has fallen. Grandmother sent us here for safety.”

“Dragas!” Aura called back into the cottage. “Come out here!”

Dragas came out on the porch. “Hello. Aura, why did you call me out here. Weren’t you expecting them.

“No I wasn’t. Endora was telling me that the Northern Court has fallen.” Aura turned back to her sister. “When did this happen?”

“Last night.” Endora tied sugarplum to the post. “The Queen and her daughters were killed in their beds. The barrier fell and the village surrounding the castle was overtaken. Grandmother sent us here with all the faerie crystals including the one from the Northern Court’s great portal.”

“How did that get here?” Aura asked.

“One of the soldiers was told to take it and run for the woods.” Endora explained. “When he was clear, the soldier created a portal and it connected with the Great Portal here. That was how we found out about the attack.”

“You can’t stay here. This will be the first place. They will look for her.” Dragas looked at Endora. “We need to take you somewhere they won’t look for you. We can take them to the Crystal Castle.”

“No. That would endanger your people. We should take them to my father’s estate. There is a protective spell built into the estate put there by my great grandparents.” Aura said. “We can tell Mother what is going on and keep her safe as well.”

Endora looked down at the ground. “Aura, our mother is at the castle.”

“What?” Aura was startled. “She was staying at the estate with our father. When did she go to the castle?”

“She had just arrived when we left. A guard came into my chambers to announce her as grandmother was saying goodbye.” Endora looked at Aura. “I have no idea why she was there.”

Aura looked at Dragas. “We have to go get her.”

“Aura, there is no time.” Dragas grabbed her arm and shook his head. “Night will come soon and if they hit the Northern Court in the middle of the night they will follow the same tactics here. They may already be on the way to the castle by now.”

“Meet us at the estate. We will follow as soon as Aura warns Victra and Klaus to join us.” Dragas looked at Aura. “You and Victra are at risk. We must get you both to safety. They may come looking for all of Taralen’s granddaughters.”

“We should all go together.” Endora looked at Aura. “If he’s right, you’re at risk too.”

“I can handle myself.” Aura hugged her sister. “We will be right behind you.”

Endora got back on Sugarplum. “Don’t take too long. Come on, Dionne, let’s get to the estate.”

Part 1
Word Count: 1152

It was the dark of night when the five intruders made their way into the castle of the Northern Court of the Tuathe de Danaan. They silently made their way to chambers of the Queen and her three princesses. The intruders took their guards by surprise and killed them on the spot. They entered the bed chambers and slit the throats of the royal women and maids. The invaders slipped back into the darkness without being found out.

The maid of the youngest princess had been away from her post talking with her sweetheart. When she returned a few hours later and discovered that the guard was lying dead on the floor and the princess dead in her bed she screamed and went to find the guards patrolling the castle.

The alarm sounded and the guards poured out of the barracks only to find an army of intruders waiting for them. The guards were taken by surprise by the sheer numbers.

The Queen’s captain looked around and realized that the protective barrier around the realm was gone. That was when he realized that the Queen and the Crown Princess were dead. He had no choice but to order his men to fight.

The Captain grabbed one of his men and pulled him to the great portal. He took the crystal out of the portal told the soldier to run and not let the enemy get the crystal.

The man ran for the woods and didn’t stop until he was clear of the battle. He stopped and held the crystal out in front of him to make a portal. He escaped through the portal to the Southern Court.

The invaders slaughtered every fae in the village surrounding the castle. They even killed the woman children as they tried to defend their homes. In the end, the invaders looted what they could find then burned the crops homes and left the bodies of the fae littering the ground.

The Northern fae soldier stumbled through the portal into the woods near the castle of the southern court. He ran to the castle.

“Help me! Please help me! The fae shouted as he ran toward the castle.

Captain Janlou was walking from the barracks to the castle when he saw the man. He recognized the uniform of the Northern Court.

“Halt!” The captain called out. “How did you get here?”

“I was sent by my captain. He told me to take the crystal from the Great Portal and run. Invaders have taken our realm. The barrier that protected it is gone.” The soldier collapsed to his knees. “They came in the night. They were slaughtering women and children.”

“Who were they? Was it the Fomors?” Captain Janlou picked him up by the jacket. “Tell me who they were?”

“I don’t know. They looked human. They spoke the human tongue and had no wings or markings. My wife … My children …” The soldier sobbed.

“Fawnard! Get over here.” Captain Janlou shouted to a man walking out of the castle.

Fawnard ran to where the Captain was standing with the soldier. “Where did he come from?”

“Commander, the Northern Court has fallen. He was sent by his captain to warn us. Gather the guard. We must make ready.” Captain Janlou ordered him

Commander Fawnard nodded and headed for barracks.

“Come with me.” Captain Janlou pulled the solider to his feet and walked him into the castle. “You need to tell your story to our Queen.”

Twenty minutes later, Queen Taralen rushed into Endora’s chambers. She was carrying a heavy leather bag. “Dionne! Endora! We don’t have much time.”

“Grandmother, what’s wrong?” Endora stopped sharpening her sword.

“The Northern Court has fallen. I need you both to listen to me. I need you to leave the castle. A soldier from the Norther Court used their portal crystal to come here to warm us. Pack quickly. Take anything of value with you. Take Dionne with you.” Taralen handed the leather bag to Dionne. “These are my jewels and the crystals from both portals.”

Endora put down her sword and looked at the bag. “Why are you giving us all of these? You will need one to escape.”

“No. I must stay. I’m sending all of my jewels with you. Most of them have faerie crystals. We must keep them out of the wrong hands. The invaders were not fae. They were looting as well as slaughtering everyone in the castle and the surrounding village.” Taralen explained.

“They wouldn’t dare come here.” Endora picked up her sword again. She held it ready. “We have an army. We should fight.”

“I don’t want to take that chance. Not with you.” Taralen hugged her tightly. “If I fall, this realm will not as long as you are alive. Go tell your sisters i love them.” She looked at Dionne. “Take care of her.”

“I will Majesty.” Dionne bowed and started to pack.

“Let me stay. I will fight for this realm.” Endora pleaded. “I can just let you stay here, in harm’s way.”

“No.” Taralen shook her head and hugged her again. She whispered in Endora’s ear so Dionne wouldn’t hear. “I taught you the renewal ritual for the barrier and had you perform it with me so that even if I died the realm would not fall. You must stay alive so that the barrier will not come down and lives will be saved.”

Endora held on to her grandmother. “I understand. I love you.”

“I love you too.” Taralen kissed her on the cheek.

Endora wiped a tear from her cheek as she pulled away. “We will be gone in an hour. Dionne and I will take Astra and Sugarplum.”

“Hurry.” Taralen looked at Dionne packing Endora’s jewels. “Make sure you talk all of your crystals. Yours too Dionne. I know you have at least one.”

“Yes Majesty but I have just the one I wear.” Dionne pulled the chain from under her blouse and showed the Queen.

“Dionne, go pack your things. I will finish up here.” Endora nodded her out. “I will meet you at the stables.”

Dionne took the hint and dropped what she was doing. She glanced back at the two women before she went through the door.

“If you stay you will be killed.” Endora cautioned her.

“I am the Queen. I can’t run from my fate. You will see once you are Queen.” Taralen started to cry. “I have raised you as best as I can. You will do well.”

A guard came rushing in. “Majesty, the Crown Princess is here.”

“Thank you.” Taralen said to the guard. She turned back to Endora. “Hurry Endora. Don’t come back until you are summoned. Do you understand?”

“Yes Majesty.” Endora bowed. She watched as her grandmother walked out the door. She wiped her tears. She finished packing then headed down to meet Dionne at the stables.

Title: The Visitor from the Peri Court (Part 5)
Fandom: Original (Ogham-Duir/FFQP)
Characters: Dionne, Endora, Hux (guard), Captain Janlou, QueenTaralen, Prince Hareem.
Author: sidhe_faerie
Rating: PG
Length: 1556
Content notes: 23. Explanation. Warning attempted assault
Summary: Endora subdues an intruder. Queen Taralen plots a new marriage for her granddaughter.

The Visitor from the Peri Court (Part 5)
The moon was high when Endora suddenly woke up. She sat up and looked around. There was a noise near her chamber door. At first she thought it might be Dionne but when she looked over to the alcove where Dionne slept and saw that she was there fast asleep.

Endora took the dagger from under her pillow and made her way to the door. She switched hands with her blade and quietly took her sword out of the rack by the door. Whoever it was wouldn’t get far.

The door latch clicked and the door opened slowly. A dark figure slowly stepped inside. There was a glint of a blade near the figure’s hand.

Endora stayed in the shadows until the figure was near the center of the room. She silently moved behind the figure and put the tip of the blade in the middle of the intruders back.

“Don’t move!” Endora pressed the blade harder against the dark figures back. “Dionne!”

“What? Huh?” Dionne jumped and looked around. “Endora, where are you?”

“Over here. Go find the guards.” Endora waved her hand and the candles in the room lit. “Pull down his hood first. I want to see who dares to sneak into my bedchamber.”

Dionne grabbed her wrap and walked over to the figure. She took the dagger from his hand and pushed back his hood. “Prince Hareem? What are you doing here?”

“The guards, Dionne.” Endora reminded her. She pressed the sword into Prince Hareem’s back again. “Get on your knees!”

Dionne ran out of the room and went to look for the castle patrol.

“What are you going to do? Take off my head?” The Prince asked as he got down on his knees.

“It was a thought. Why are you in my room?” Endora poked him with the sword.

“I came to persuade you to change your mind about marrying me.” Prince Hareem shrugged. “I just wanted to impress you with my skills as a …”

“Burglar? Thief? Murderer?” Endora poked him again. “Why are you really here?”

“Surely, you know why I’m really here. Endora.” The prince laughed. “I’m in your bed chamber in the middle of the night. What skills do you think i'm here to impress you with?”

“And the dagger? What’s it for?” Endora poked him with the sword.

“That hurts!” Prince Hareem wiggled his shoulders. “The dagger was for your maid. I didn’t need to be interrupted.”

Dionne came in with the three guards. “There he is!”

“Highness, what do you want us to do with him?” The older guard asked.

“Take him to the dungeon.” Endora stepped back and let the guards take him. “Strip him down to his underwear. He may have other weapons on him.”

“Are you coming to visit me later?” The Prince winked at her then struggled against the guards.

Endora squinted at him then punched the Prince as hard as she could. She smiled when he went limp in the guards’ arms. “Never wink at me again, you foul man.”

Dionne giggled. “They will never learn will they?”

Endora glanced at Dionne. “Where is the dagger you took from him?”

“I gave it to Hux.” Dionne pointed to the older guard. “It was a Peri blade. The blade was curved and it had an elephant on the hilt.”

“Hux, may I have it?” Endora held out her hand.

“Here you go, Highness.” Hux handed her the dagger hilt first. “We’ll have him buttoned up in just a jiff.”

Endora nodded. “Thank you all.”

Queen Taralen rushed in wrapped in a fur shawl. “Endora, are you all right? Dionne?”

“We’re fine. Prince Hareem broke into my room and got more than he bargained for.”

“What’s wrong with him?” Taralen looked at the prince.

“He winked at her.” Dionne bit her lip to keep from laughing.

Taralen laughed. “Take him to the dungeon.”

The guards smiled and whisked the unconscious prince away.

“He came in here to … wink … with me. I didn’t invite him. He said that he was going to kill Dionne with this.” Endora held up the Peri dagger. “I ordered him to be stripped to look for hidden weapons.”

Taralen hugged her granddaughter. “He didn’t, did he?”

“No.” Endora hugged her tight. “All he got was my sword in his back.”

“We will send him home in the morning.” Taralen surprised Dionne with a hug. “Are you sure you’re both unharmed?”

“Yes Majesty.” Dionne straightened her wrap.

“This is why I wanted to post guards outside your door.” Taralen gave Endora a frustrated look. “He was the last prince even close to your age.”

“About that.” Endora shifted on her bare feet. “I was thinking that I should marry someone from the guard. Actually, it was Dionne’s idea. I’m a warrior so I should marry a warrior.”

“Your great grandfather was a warrior. Dagda the White is still spoken of with great respect.” Taralen looked at Endora. “If you can find a warrior that is worthy of you, then let me know and I will arrange it. Just make sure he’s high ranking.”

“It doesn’t work that way. He has to want to marry me too, Grandmother.” Endora picked up a shawl from the chair and pulled it around her shoulders.

“Maybe I should ask Captain Janlou to include you in drills for a while. It will give you a chance to get to know some of them.” Taralen smiled mischievously.

“You wouldn’t!” Endora gasped.

“Goodnight girls.” Taralen waved as she walked out.

Dionne sighed. “I’m going to the kitchen for some tea. We aren’t getting back to sleep tonight. Sandwiches?”

“Sounds good.” Endora plopped down on the settee. “I’m going to need strength for those drills.”

Dione laughed as she walked out.

A few hours later, Prince Hareem was bound and held by guards at the Great Portal. His belongings were packed and sitting nearby. Taralen handed a scroll to one of the guards to put into the prince’s pocket.

“That scroll will explain why you are being sent back and why you are banned from returning to this realm.” Taralen waved her hand and the portal opened. “Good luck with your war.”

“Please reconsider. If I am sent back without the help we need my king will be angry with me.” Prince Hareem looked at his hands. “At least untie my hands.”

“You’re lucky my granddaughter didn’t run you through with her sword. She showed amazing restraint.” Taralen sighed. “I’m showing restraint by not executing you. You planned on assaulting her and killing her maid. You are scum. Send him through!”

The guards pushed the Prince’s belonging through the portal then shoved him through behind them.

Taralen waved her hand to close the portal. “Send Captain Janlou to my sitting room. I need to talk with him.”

“Yes Majesty.” Hux bowed and went to fetch his captain.

Captain Janlou, an older fae with a scar on his cheek, entered the Queen’s sitting room and bowed. “Majesty, you wanted to see me?”

“Sit. I want you to explain why there was no guard on my granddaughter’s door.” Taralen poured a cup of tea and handed it to him.

“I tried but she kept sending them away.” Captain Janlou sighed. “To be honest, she really doesn’t need one. She fights better than more than half my men. She can handle herself. I was informed about the incident last night. She had no trouble in subduing the blackguard. I’m surprised she didn’t inflict some harm on him.”

“So was I.” Taralen smiled. “I have one other issue to discuss. I want Endora to take drills with the men.”

“Really? I don’t think my men can keep up with her.” Captain Janlou laughed. “Why do you really want her to take drills with the men?”

Taralen looked at the cup in her hand. “She needs a husband and a warrior would be her last chance. There are no more princes left for her to marry.”

“She keeps punching them.” Captain Janlou chuckled.

Taralen laughed. “They keep winking at her.”

“That bodes ill for the Sidhe Guard.” Captain Janlou grinned. “I assume that you want me to steer her toward the higher ranking men?”

“Please.” Taralen nodded. “Endora needs a husband worthy of Dagda the White’s great granddaughter.”

“I know of one. His name is Commander Fawnard.” Captain Janlou told her. “He is a widower. He will understand her pain over her lost prince.”

“Gently nudge them together but don’t push too hard.” Taralen warned. “She may catch on.”

I have no doubt that she will. She reminds me of your mother, Queen Deidra.” The captain put his cup on the table. “Strong. Fierce. It will do well when she finally reaches the throne. There will be much to repair after Cara’s rule. No offense Majesty.”

“Cara will never rule. It has already been settled. Endora knows this as does her sisters.” Taralen put her cup on the table. “Endora will start tomorrow.”

“I will look forward to her pushing them to do better.” Captain Janlou stood up and bowed. “Good day Majesty.

“Good day Captain.” Taralen nodded his dismissal. She looked out of the window. There was a feeling of doom weighing on her heart. She knew something horrible was coming and she felt powerless to stop it.

Title: The Visitor from the Peri Court (Part 4)
Fandom: Original (Ogham-Duir/FFQP)
Characters: Endora, Dionne, Quin the stable boy
Author: sidhe_faerie
Rating: PG
Length: 1153
Content notes: 22 Potential (No unicorns were harmed in the writing of this piece of fiction)
Summary: Endora returns to the castle to find she has missed some excitement.

The Visitor from the Peri Court (Part 4)
Endora stayed later than she planned at Aura’s. It was almost dusk when she reached the passage in the mist at Crystal Spires. She nudged Sugarplum forward and passed through.

When Endora reached the stables, Quin was waiting with a worried look on his face. “Highness, you’ve made her late for supper.”

“Sorry. I lost track of time.” Endora dismounted and held out the reins to Quin. “Put some apples in her basket tonight.”

“Will do.” Quin took the reins and hesitated. It looked like he was trying to decide if he should tell her something.

“Was there something else?” Endora waited patiently for an answer.

“Prince Hareem took a fall. Jules came back on his own about an hour after the Prince rode off on him. Jules was really spooked. I got him calmed down and called the guard to go look for the Prince. They found him walking on the road, swearing and rubbing his bum” Quin blushed. “Sorry. I shouldn’t have said ‘bum’.”

Endora bit her lip to keep from laughing. “It sounds like he just injured his pride. I wonder what spooked Jules.”

“I heard a caterwaul the other night. Maybe, he came up on it.” Quin shrugged. “Unicorns and caterwauls don’t really get on.”

“I know what you mean. It’s hard to get on when you might potentially be a caterwaul’s supper.” Endora smiled. “Good night Quin. I’m late for supper myself.”

Quin suddenly remembered something. “Dionne told me to tell you not to rush. The Queen has a headache and she took a tray in her room.”

Endora waved and walked into the castle. When she reached her room, Dionne was there puttering around.

“You’re late. You missed all the excitement.” Dionne primed herself to tell Endora everything all at once. “Prince Hareem fell off the gentlest unicorn in the stable. Oh! Your grandmother is hiding in her room. She doesn’t really have a headache. She just doesn’t want to listen to the Prince complain. He said that he wouldn’t have fallen if the stable boy had given him your horse. If he can’t ride a unicorn what makes him think he can ride a horse.”

“No. He was right. He wouldn’t have fallen. Sugarplum would have tossed him off. I warned him to stay on the road.” Endora sighed. “Dionne, I think I’ll take a supper tray tonight too. I hope our guest is resting after all of his excitement.”

“Poor Max was almost in tears when he came down to the kitchen for the Prince’s midday meal. I’m glad you’re not going to marry him. He’s mean.” Dionne shoved the last of the laundry in a drawer and headed to the door. “Cook made those potatoes with the cheese and cream. I told her to save you some.”

Endora sighed as Dionne went out the door. She needed to think about some things. Dionne’s incessant talking didn’t help.

After talking with Aura and Victra, some things had become clearer to her. The war between the Peri and the Jin was not something that the Tuathe should get involved in. that conflict had the potential to spread with every Court that got involved. Here on Ogham-Duir, they were isolated from the other Courts and the problems between this one and that one. The best thing for the Southern Court to do was to stay neutral. If the Northern Court or the Midsummer Court or Tylwyth Teg wanted to get involved it was up to them.

Endora decided to speak to her grandmother in the morning about her thoughts. She was sure her grandmother would feel the same way. They often came to the same decision while on their own.

Dionne came back with the tray and sat it down on the table. “Cook sent you some roasted tomatoes in your salad. The tea is hot so be careful. Do you need me tonight? I was thinking of going to see Quin.”

“I’ll let you go in a in a little while.” Endora stretched and looked around. She put her sword in the rack and went to put her dagger on the bed. “Did you lay out a nightdress for me? I am exhausted.”

“Sit and eat I’ll get you some hot water and put out a night dress.” Dionne picked up the washbasin pitcher and hurried out of the room.

Endora sat down to eat and looked up when Dionne came back in. “You can go as soon as you are done with that.”

“Thanks.” Dionne sat the water down and went to grab her cloak.

“Dionne, don’t get used to this.” Endora took a sip of tea. “If you get caught…”

“I know. I might get sacked.” Dionne turned around.

“That wasn’t the kind of caught I was talking about.” Endora warned. “I was talking about the rolling in the hay kind of caught.”

Dionne sighed. “Endora, are you worried about breaking in a new maid? You know that I will still work after I start a family.”

“Dionne, I don’t want to think about your potential offspring right now but you should. You don’t want to have one before your married.” Endora sat back. “Quin had better marry you if you get caught.”

“You need to get married too, Endora.” Dione reminded here. “I know you still mourn Prince Paddrick but you can’t stay unmarried. You need offspring too, you know.”

“I lack potential husbands, remember?” Endora sighed. “Go. Don’t be late in the morning.”

“Endora, you’re just looking in the wrong place for a husband.” Dionne sighed and shook her head. “Your great grandfather was a famous warrior. And wasn’t you father a commander in the Sidhe Guard?”

“He wasn’t a commander. He was a column leader.” Endora played with her food. “You think I should look to the warriors for a husband?”

“You are a warrior. It would be a perfect fit.” Dionne shrugged. “It’s just a thought. There are several with loads of potential.”

Endora chuckled. “I should probably check them out.”

Dionne grinned and left for her date.

Endora got up, washed and changed for bed. She put the dagger under her pillow and laid down,

Endora’s mind started to drift to what Dionne said. A warrior wouldn’t be a bad choice but she didn’t think that her grandmother permit it. But what choice did she have? There were no princes of age at the Northern or Tylwyth Teg courts and no princes at all at Midsummer Court. That only left the Seelie, the Unseelie, and the Peri Courts to look for a prince of age that wasn’t already betrothed.

So far she was having no luck. Hareem was out and she doubted the two other Courts would want to dilute their bloodlines with a Tuathe. In reality, there were no potential husbands out there for her.

Endora sighed then closed her eyes and drifted off into a restless sleep.

Title: The Visitor from the Peri Court (Part 3)
Fandom: Original (Ogham-Duir/FFQP)
Characters: Endora, Dionne, Prince Hareem, Quin the stable boy, Victra, Aura, Dragas, Puff (Myrdren), Myra
Author: sidhe_faerie
Rating: PG
Length: 1288
Content notes: 21. Forward
Summary: Sometimes it’s hard to move forward after losing someone you love even when everyone is telling you to do it.

The Visitor from the Peri Court (Part 3)
Endora went back to her chambers after supper and Dionne had a message from Aura waiting for her.

“When did this come?” Endora sat down at her dressing table and looked at the note.

“About twenty minutes ago. How was supper?” Dionne started to take the pins out of Endora’s hair.

“It was a disaster. He wants a marriage and he seems pretty desperate about it.” Endora looked at the note again. “I’ll go to Aura’s cottage first thing in the morning. Send a message down to the stables to have Sugarplum saddled and ready for me.”

“I’ll tell Quin when I go to meet him later.” Dionne smiled. “We have a date.”

“You better not get caught by the guards when you leave the castle.” Endora looked in the mirror at Dionne. “I would hate to have to explain to my grandmother that you had a date to roll in the hay with the stable boy. She might sack you.”

“I’ll be careful. What do you think Aura wants?” Dionne asked.

“I’m sure she knows about Prince Hareem by now. She probably wants to know what’s going on with him. She is on the Council of Elders.” Endora put the note in a drawer. She carefully took off her broach and put it in her jewel case in the drawer before she closed it.

“Endora, do you think you’ll be ready to move forward from Prince Paddrick’s death any time soon?” Dionne asked. “I mean, you aren’t getting any younger and all the available Princes are being snatched up.”

“There’s more to life than getting married Dionne.” Endora took the crown from her head and looked at it. She put it on her dressing table. “I have plenty of time to get married. Go meet your sweetheart. I’ll see you in the morning.”

Dionne hesitated. “Are you sure?”

“Yes Dionne. Now go.” Endora stood up and went behind the privacy screen to change into her nightdress.

“Thank you!” Dionne called out as she picked up her cloak and left.

Endora came from behind the screen and went to get in bed. She put her dagger under her pillow. She had an uneasy feeling since supper that just wouldn’t go away.

First thing in the morning Endora went to the stables for Sugarplum. She was surprised to find Prince Hareem there yelling at Quin the stable boy.

“I want that one! I don’t want a unicorn. Are you simple boy?” Prince Hareem yelled.

“What is the problem?” Endora walked up wearing a tunic and leggings and carrying her riding cloak.

“Highness, he wants your horse.” Quin gave the prince a glance. “I tried to explain to His Highness that no one rides Sugarplum but you. Not that they could. She bites.”

Endora looked at the Prince. “She does bite.” She tuned to Quin. “Give him Jules. He’s a good mount.”

“Is that the only horse in the entire realm?” Prince Hareem asked.

“Yes. Most fae ride unicorns.” Endora took the reins from Quin when he brought out Sugarplum. “Sugarplum was a gift from my brother in law, Prince Dragas of Zestra.”

“I wasn’t aware you had sisters.” Prince Hareem looked like he was plotting something.

“Two and they are both married.” Endora stepped up on the mounting block then got in the saddle. “If you’ll excuse me, I have an appointment.”

“Of course Princess.” The prince had an edge to his voice that wasn’t there the day before. He was obviously agitated.

“Oh Prince Hareem, you should stick to the road when you ride. Stay off the trails. They are difficult for even experienced riders.” Endora told him.

“Thank you for the advice, Princess.” Prince Hareem bowed to her.

Endora nudged Sugarplum forward and headed for the passage to Crystal Spires. She let the horse stretch into a gallop on the way. She went through the passage a few moments later and came out at the edge of the village.

Endora slowed Sugarplum to a walk as she entered the village. Several people waved and said ‘hello’ to her as she passed through the village on her way to Blackstone Ferry then the village of Rosemont where Aura kept a cottage.

Twenty minutes later, Endora was tying her horse to the post in front of Aura’s cottage when Dragas came out.

“They are in there waiting for you. Victra got here just after dawn.” Dragas gave Endora a kiss on the cheek. “I’m off to the market. Me. I’m the Crown Prince of Zestra and I’m being sent to buy moon melons and starrberries like a serving boy.”

Endora giggled. “Don’t forget the blue tea leaves.”

Dragas held up a folded paper. “She made me a list. I better get on before she turns me into a toadstool.”

Endora giggled again and waved as he walked away. She walked up on the porch of the cottage and was surprised to find Puff and Myra lying in the sun.

Puff wagged his tail but he didn’t get up. Myra opened a sleepy eye and snorted hello.

“Endora! Get in here!” Aura called out.

Endora patted both the dragons on the head and went inside. “I see Puff has a visitor. Did you bring her down from the sanctuary for the day?”

No. Myra is staying with us for a while.” Aura shook her head. “I was sent information on a new treatment for her by the Wyvern clan. Lord Wyvern brought many books with him from Draconia when they fled. Leeas brought me a few of them when he visited last.”

“Is it a cure?” Endora looked out on the porch.

“I don’t know but I’m willing to try anything.” Aura sighed and pushed her dark hair behind her ear. “I just hope we didn’t wait too long.”

Victra came out of the kitchen with the tea tray. “I heard you have a suitor from the Peri Court. Is he handsome?”

“Yes but he’s so rude that it doesn’t matter.” Endora sighed and sat down in one of the plush chairs. “Aren’t we missing a dragon? Where’s Argonne?”

“At the sanctuary. They needed her to foster the new hatchlings. Cannea went too.” Victra poured tea into the three cups. “I can’t believe they went ahead and hatched those eggs they found in the Western lands. They could have turned out to be anything.”

“They were obviously dragon eggs, Victra.” Aura laughed. “So when’s the wedding, Endora?”

“There isn’t going to be one. He wants one but Grandmother allowed me to refuse him.” Endora took the cup Victra handed her. “He was not pleased that he couldn’t move forward with his plan to marry himself an army.”

“I was doing some reading on the Peri.” Aura took a cup of tea from Victra. “They don’t have the same Court structure as the Tuathe or the Twylth Teg. It’s more like the Court at Midsummer. There was also a mention of the Unseelie Court as well.”

“That explains a lot.” Endora sipped her tea. “He practically asked me if I was chaste. He makes me uneasy. I slept with a dagger under my pillow.”

“You send him here if he’s a problem. I’ll just shift and breathe on him.” Aura took a sip of tea.

“Now Aura just because you can turn into a dragon doesn’t mean you get to have all the fun.” Victra wiggled her finger at Aura. “I have a few spells up my sleeve too.”

Endora laughed. “Thank you both but I think I can handle him. I wouldn’t want to cause an incident.”

“Nonsense.” Aura shrugged. “You’re our baby sister and we will stand with you.”

“With fireballs blazing.” Victra giggled making her blonde curls dance.

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The Pink Journal

Original Fiction

Entries tagged with ogham-duir

Dear Diary

Love Not Remembered

The Last Hope for Atlantis

Dragon Drabbles (Ogham-Duir)

Answers for the Queen

Sister Nightingale

Astoria Marketplace

Mercy Postponed

Extreme Measures

Draconian Heritage

The Shadow Realm

Smuggling

Buu the Bard

The Perfect Potion

Her Father's Sword

The Fall of the Northern Court (Part 2)

The Fall of the Northern Court (Part 1)

The Visitor from the Peri Court (Part 5)

The Visitor from the Peri Court (Part 4)

The Visitor from the Peri Court (Part 3)