General Kaldor Kyriakidis watched as Isabel hastily retreated into the crowd, a smile of amusement playing on his lips. He descended from the platform and made his way towards him.
Frostwind, his imposing dragon, who had landed beside the platform a few minutes earlier. The dragon's scales shimmered like frost in the sunlight, and its eyes followed Kaldor's every move with a blend of curiosity and impatience.
Kaldor reached out to stroke Frostwind's snout, but the dragon shifted and grunted softly, clearly irritated. Kaldor laughed and leaned closer, whispering, "Relax, boy. Be patient. You'll meet her soon enough. It's not the right time yet, or she might be frightened."
Frostwind snorted, a plume of cold air escaping his nostrils, but he seemed to accept Kaldor's words. The general gave the dragon a final, affectionate pat before turning back to the gathered troops. The distribution of gold coins continued, with soldiers and healers lining up to receive their unexpected reward.
As the last of the coins were handed out, the camp buzzed with excitement and chatter. Isabel clutched her pouch tightly, still reeling from the encounter. Mirael, noticing her friend's distracted state, nudged her playfully.
"You're not still thinking about that knight, are you?" Mirael teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
Isabel shook her head, trying to dispel the lingering image of General Kaldor's piercing gaze. "No, it's just...everything feels so surreal."
Before Mirael could respond, a sudden gust of wind announced the arrival of Frostwind, who landed gracefully in the center of the camp. The dragon's presence commanded immediate attention, and all eyes turned to the majestic creature.
Kaldor mounted Frostwind with practiced ease, his gaze sweeping over the assembled troops one last time. "Remember, stay vigilant and honor those we've lost. We'll meet again soon."
With that, Frostwind spread his massive wings and took to the sky, carrying Kaldor away. As the dragon soared higher.
After General Kaldor's departure, the excitement in the camp gradually began to settle. General Thorne stepped forward, his voice commanding attention once more.
"Everyone, prepare to mount your beasts. We will depart for the Capital of Valareath, our home. Ensure you have all your belongings and maintain formation during the journey."
The soldiers moved quickly, each finding their designated Velociquine—a swift and agile creature resembling a cross between a horse and a raptor, with powerful legs, long hair, and a single horn protruding from its forehead. Isabel made her way to her own Velociquine, a beautiful white beast with a mane that shimmered in the sunlight.
As she approached, her Velociquine nickered softly, nuzzling her hand in greeting. Isabel smiled and stroked its neck, feeling a sense of calm wash over her. She had named her Velociquine "Luna" for the creature's luminous, moon-like coloring.
"Ready, girl?" Isabel murmured as she mounted Luna with ease. The Velociquine responded with an eager whinny, pawing the ground impatiently.
Mirael, already mounted on her own Velociquine, a sleek black one named Shadow, trotted over to join Isabel. "Exciting, isn't it? Heading home after all this time."
Isabel nodded, her thoughts still somewhat distracted. "Yes, it is. I just can't believe it's finally happening."
General Thorne gave the signal, and the entire camp began to move as one, the Velociquines forming neat rows as they set out. The journey to the capital was a long one, but the prospect of returning home filled everyone with a sense of purpose and determination.
As they rode, Isabel's mind wandered back to General Kaldor and his dragon, Frostwind. She couldn't shake the feeling that their encounter was more significant than it seemed. Mirael noticed her friend's contemplative silence and rode closer.
""You're awfully quiet. Still thinking about him?" Mirael asked with a teasing smile, her eyes twinkling mischievously.
Isabel sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. "Mirael, it's not what you think," she replied, her voice tinged with exasperation. "I was just staring at his clothes. He seems different from the ordinary knights, and that's why I got distracted. There's nothing more to it." She rolled her eyes in annoyance, trying to dismiss the subject.
Mirael chuckled, the sound light and carefree. "Oh! I thought your young heart was swayed by a handsome young knight in shining armor."
Isabel chided her, her tone sharp. "Shut up. In your eyes, if I look at a man twice, you'll force me into his arms. You always want to pair me up. You should think about yourself."
Mirael straightened, her expression turning mock-serious. "Whoever dares to take my hand should be ready for a good beating from me first. Then, maybe I'll consider," she said haughtily, raising her fist in a show of strength.
In a low voice, Isabel muttered, "You'll surely scare the poor guy."
"Hmm? What did you say? I couldn't hear," Mirael asked, leaning in closer.
"Nothing!" Isabel quickly replied, shaking her head, a faint smile tugging at her lips despite herself.
The landscape around them shifted from rolling hills to dense forests as they continue their journey, the Velociquines maintaining a steady pace. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm glow over the horizon.
~~~~~~
After a week of continuous journey, the troops finally neared the massive gates of Drakendale, the capital city of the Valareath kingdom.
The soldiers, weary but filled with anticipation, urged their Velociquines forward with renewed vigor. The towering stone walls of the city loomed ahead, a reassuring sight after the long trek through varied terrains.
As they approached, the great bell of Drakendale began to toll, its deep, resonant chimes announcing the return of General Thorne and his troops.
The sound echoed across the city, carrying the news to all corners of the city. The massive gates, ornately carved and fortified, slowly swung open, revealing the bustling streets beyond.
Citizens gathered to welcome the returning soldiers, their cheers and shouts of "Long live General Thorne!" filling the air. Pedestrians, stall owners, and children lined the streets, waving flags and throwing flowers as the troops rode in. The atmosphere was electric with celebration and relief, as families and friends eagerly searched for familiar faces among the ranks.
Isabel and Mirael rode side by side, their Velociquines stepping proudly through the throngs of well-wishers. The warm reception and the sight of their beloved city brought smiles to their faces, easing the fatigue of their journey. Luna and Shadow, sensing their riders' joy, trotted with heads held high, their coats gleaming in the evening light.