Page 6 of The Last Knight

Instead of opening his mouth to deny it, Gunther looked up to study the dragon. “She’s as beautiful as she is deadly. When she destroyed Meliot’s dragon, there wasn’t any hesitation, as if it took little effort.”

“Yes, Amai is overly protective,” Sterling said following his line of sight, hands clasped behind his back. “And aye, she is deadly.”

Gunther turned and they walked back toward the cottage. “You have done much for me over the years. I wish you to know I will do anything within my power to never hurt you or your people.”

“Return Atlandian prisoners that have survived. A token of trust between us.” Atlandia was ruled by Sterling’s sisters as Sterling’s realm was strictly out of bounds for anyone not from there.

At the request, Gunther stopped and looked to Sterling. Was the prince subtly offering to help him in exchange?

Gunther nodded and once again looked to the sky as Amai swooped down before gracefully landing on the ground. Her luminescent gaze moved to Gunther, distrust obvious as she lowered her giant head awaiting Sterling.

“I suggest you find one loyal subject and keep them close. You will need them at your back.” Sterling climbed atop the dragon’s back and met his gaze. There was something in his friend’s eyes, perhaps worry, or was it pity? “I will see what I can do.”

“Thank you,” Gunther replied, unsure the prince could hear him as the dragon launched itself into the sky.

The suns were low, and soon Gunther would return to the Dark Realm. There was much to do, and he couldn’t afford long absences.

Once again he took in the surroundings. It was not necessarily a beautiful place, just simple, with a small field, trees, and the wooden cottage, but to live there in peace was akin to being in paradise.

Just as he was about to return to the other realm, a thought struck. Perhaps there could be a way to break free. There was a key, something Meliot had once said in passing, that had stuck in his subconscious.

“What brings death, can also be used for freedom.”

Another hour of absence wouldn’t hurt. At least that’s what he told himself as he faded away.