[color=#a7d08c]This will be the last time we talk. I am but a ghost of my former self. A fragment left in the sands of time. Once this is over, I will pour my spirit and energy into that of my child. It will give her the strength to hatch. So please, ask your questions. I will answer for what I can remember. Though, my memory now fails me in many ways.[/color]

The dragon stretched itself out. Its body was impossibly long, as if it stretched into the distant horizon. When the sun hit the blurry scales just right, it created a rainbow effect in the water. It seemed content to just rest and listen.

[hr]

Mother Dula narrowed her eyes when Trevor spoke his name. Perhaps she expected him to continue with some title or family name. Perhaps she was unsatisfied that he would present himself with such little care for authority. She chose not to speak on whatever negative thought danced through her head at that moment. He was ultimately more tolerable than the brat she had just dealt with. Though, he seemed just as hot headed.

The monks looked to Mother Dula for approval when Trevor made his request. She paid little attention to them, more focused on watching Trevor test the weapon. Her nose wrinkled slightly at the gall of this man to question her authority. Not to mention the bravery, or perhaps stupidity, he showed to offer to fight one of his peers. Those that had been called to the island were the best of the best in their fields. A fight among their peers was surely going to be a struggle. That said, with any luck, he would lose. It would be one less brat she may have to deal with.

[color=00B4D8]”Very well. It will save us all some time. Number Nine, please step forward. Present yourself.”[/color]

The elf who stepped forward was shocked when she knew who to call for. She was a tall woman, even among the elves. Muscles rippled as she moved. A trained warrior if ever there was one. Her hair was black and tied out of her face. She wore chain armor on her limbs and a well crafted metal chestplate. Her eyes were a cutting silver. She stepped forward and bowed respectfully to Mother Dula. [color=lightgray]”High Priestess Dula, I am Cova Reinard of the Queens Guard.[/color]

Mother Dula nodded and Cova stepped forward to the table. The monks dispersed at her approach. Without hesitation, she snatched up a long sword. Cova tested its weight and scanned its edge. Then she turned to face Trevor. Her face twisted into a smirk. [color=lightgray]”A pity I will have to fight human scum.”[/color]

[color=00B4D8]”At the sound of the drum, you will begin.”[/color] Mother Dula’s voice filled the room. She lifted her hand. A moment of tension… then:

[center][h3]Clong!!![/h3][/center]