Albeon’s draconic aura recedes into the cave’s cold air. He looks down at the broad human man and lean elf woman with visibly irritated eyes, while Rayrse remains beside him.
Albeon bends his head toward Rayrse and whispers in their private dragon tongue, the words groggy and tired beneath the rumble of his breath.
Rayrse
I hear you, heartwing. Let us see whether these mortals possess sense enough to choose wisely.
Before either outsider can answer, horns rise from the lower pass. Hurried footfalls follow, multiplying through the snow as several shadowed figures approach beneath the ridge.
Hadrik
There is no time for pride. If we abandon this hollow, the hunters will find the fugitives at once.
the lean elf woman
And if we force them inside, we make the dragons witnesses to our choice. Decide, Hadrik.
The broad human man, Hadrik, tightens his grip on the hooked spear but does not advance. The lean elf woman lowers her lantern, awaiting his answer as the approaching figures crest the snowy slope.
✓ Quest Accepted
Secure the refuge from the approaching hunters
✓ Quest Accepted
Gain the cooperation of Hadrik and the elf
“I turn toward the ridge and prepare to face the approaching hunters. Unfazed and unconcerned”
SUCCESS (Fair Willpower, rolled +2)
Albeon turns toward the ridge, planting his claws firmly in the stone-strewn floor. His blue wings settle behind him, broad and ready, while the approaching hunters crest the snowline.
The foremost hunters are bundled in dark winter leathers, their faces obscured by fur-lined hoods. Spears and hooked blades glint among them as they descend toward the cave.
Rayrse
That is the posture of a dragon who has already chosen his ground, heartwing.
Rayrse shifts beside Albeon, deep red scales catching the pale mountain light. He does not spread his wings, but his lowered head fixes on the advancing line.
Hadrik
Hold your people, hunters! The hollow is claimed by dragons, and no blood need be spilled here.
the lean elf woman
They will not heed courtesy, Hadrik. Their captain carries the black cord of Trisyran pursuit.
The hunters slow beneath the ridge, confronted by Albeon’s immense silhouette and Rayrse’s silent strength. Snow sweeps between both sides, but neither dragon gives ground.