Dragon Fire & Wolf Blood

Chapter 15

After getting comfortable, they were given a tour of the islands, careful to keep Alexander and Ember away from one another. It was unlike anything they had ever seen before. They thought they understood the beauty around them, but they could not. It was unfathomable the world could hold such mysteries.

Alexander was given an itinerary for his stay for the first few days. There would be many social events at which he would be at, but Ember would not. Yes, they needed to get to know one another, but he also needed to learn about their people if he was going to be successful.

Meals were very strategically created and prepared for. Their days were full of meeting new people and making connections. Hercules had his eyes stuck on Abellona. She didn’t seem to mind it at all. In actuality, it seemed as though they were flirting quite a bit. Emmit was visiting as many areas as he possibly could.

From the few people they had met, they all seemed quite friendly, but not welcoming. They were understandably concerned about Alexander’s intentions towards their Queen. All knew he was next in line. They were scared of losing what they paid for with so many lives.

Alexander was ecstatic to see the times he would get to spend with Ember. The itinerary was full, but the most exciting part was going to be getting to see Ember each day. Hercules and Emmit would be in attendance nearby in case an emergency arose.

As night fell, they were excited about the bon fire they would be lighting in the center of town. It was something they did once a week to remember those who were no longer with them. It was a very serious and important moment for them. Ember had actually come up with the idea, because so many felt their loved ones were going to be forgotten.

In the middle of the pit stood their Goddess, Hestia. She was indeed beautiful if her image on the statue was to be believed. Her wings spread around her. Her eyes held a powerful soul in them. She was strong and powerful. Her pose suggested protection and comfort.

“Isn’t it beautiful?” Abellona asked.

“Yes. It truly is.”

“Our Goddess showed herself to Queen Ember. This is what she truly looks like. I feel like this helps bring our people closer to her.” Abellona was memorizing every strike and curve of the statue.

“I feel closer to her in just being here.” Alexander finally pulled his eyes away from the statue.

They spent a great deal of time near the statue. Conversating with each person that approached them. Many people from the other islands came to meet him. Word had gotten around and there was a lot of excitement and skepticism.

Once it was time, two dragons landed in the center of the square, careful to avoid stepping on anyone. They blew fire into the pit by bringing it to life. After that, everything was like magic. The people came alive. There was music, laughter, and dancing. Alexander was in awe of everything they had built. No other species had been prosecuted the way the Dragons had been. They had lived for so long in the shadows and now it was a beautiful sight to see them lively and happy.

Many had turned out. Most of the people Alexander had talked with were friendly and welcoming. Happy to finally meet their Queen’s mate. Some of the older members of the group weren’t as welcoming. They eyed Alexander as if he were a snake, but he didn’t let it bother him. It was customary to always have those few older folks who were skeptical of everything. Sometimes it was helpful.

The festivities went later into the evening. Sleep beckoned to the group. Whispering sweet nothings into their minds. They took their leave, respectfully.

Each climbing into their own beds. The air around them was gently filled with the sounds of music and laughter. Alexander slept with a smile on his face and a picture of Ember in his mind.

The following morning, they were kept very busy touring the next island. Alexander’s excitement was making him difficult to deal with. He was going to be having lunch with Ember. It wasn’t just any lunch; they were having lunch in her palace. Where somebody, hopefully, Alexander and her would reside.

Time seemed to be teasing as it slowed and drew out how long he had to wait. Hercules and Emmit were completely over his nonsense by the time lunch had finally neared. Hunger did not call out to Alexander. Instead, his mind was filled with images of Ember and her beauty. Her smile. Her laugh.

“Alexander, I swear to the Goddess, I am going to punch your lights out if you don’t chill out!” Hercules growled as he was nearly running to the palace.

Once they were outside the building, a slim man came walking out. He stood tall and proud as he ushered them in. He followed them in and quickly moved forward to show them to the dining hall.

The palace was large and welcoming. High ceilings with beautiful windows. Ember had brought an old dragon from the mainland to start teaching glass molding. Their fire was hot enough, and they had enough control. They were able to stain the glass windows. The Palace had many different designs. If one were to walk down the hall in the correct direction, each window would tell you the story of the dragons.

Most of the palace was made of stone. The sky lights added soft physics to the building. A warm town to the whole place. They reached two large doors, which were opened by men. They moved into the room. At the large table, each place was set with glassware and silverware. Once seated, each person was given a glass of water.

The men at the door announced Ember’s presence before she entered. At which point, they stood out of respect. Alexander was seated in the chair to Ember’s right. Abellona was across the table from him, to Ember’s left. Followed by Hercules sitting next to Abellona and Emmit sitting next to Alexander.

Once she was standing at the head of the table, she gave a nod of approval. Ember sat first, followed by everyone else. Quickly, their meals were brought out. Healthy sized servings of pork with greens, cooked carrots, and mushrooms. It was not a traditional way a dragon would eat, but it was possible Ember was humoring her guests.

“Thank you for the meal invitation your majesty. It looks and smells welcoming.” Alexander looked into Ember’s eyes.

“Thank you, Prince Alexander. Our cook is quite excellent.” Ember looked back at him.

Alexander could feel the heat in the room rise a few degrees. Ember’s cheeks also turn a warm color. Looking back down at his meal, he grabbed his utensils and started eating. They all had a conversation throughout the meal. Ember told them of the kingdom. Suggested several places they should enjoy while they were there. Emmit asked Ember many questions about their traditions.

Throughout the conversation, Alexander learned Ember had a vast library she had built that housed thousands of books. Many of them were almost as old as Dante. He had held onto as much as he could. Their history was nearly erased. Nothing left was special and irreplaceable. He also learned she loved fireflowers. They covered the land up the hills and mountains of the islands. They smelled like freshly burned wood. Alexander always thought they reminded him of home.

As time came to an end, Ember stood and excused herself. Exchanging pleasant goodbyes before leaving. Her goodbye with Alexander was intense. The room seemed to come to life with electricity.