Mates On Paper.

Stretching Sky snuggled into her warm pillow and listened to the slow rhythmic thumping. Thump-thump, thump-thump went her pillow as it began to lull her back to sleep. Drifting back down her bed shifted and the world disappeared from under her. Letting out a startled cry Sky flailed her arms as she hit the floor. Fighting the blanket Sky managed to get it off just in enough time to sit up and smack something hard with her head. Laying back down Sky rubbed her head and looked up to see Michael leaning out of a bed rubbing his head as well. "I'm sorry," said Michael as he helped Sky out of the floor.

Mumbling under her breath Sky didn't want to think about why she woke up laying on top of Michael. She remembered him taking over the little things attached to her and being in his arms, but did that constitute the same in real life? Jumping into her clothes quickly Sky walked out into the front of the tent to find her saddlebag next to the privy that sat in the corner. Smiling she made her way over to it and pulled her hairbrush and her toothbrush out. Finding some normalcy in her mundane task Sky brushed her hair. Pausing when Jamie came in she tied her hair up as Jamie walked up behind her. Laying his hand on her back Jamie closed his eyes as he checked her over. Turning back to her task, Sky began to brush her teeth ignoring the invasiveness of Jamie's investigation. Her dragon hissed at his magic that swirled around her. Batting at it like a cat she almost puffed up like a cat as she hissed again.

Hearing a rusting of the curtain behind her, Sky turned to see something that almost had her toothbrush falling out of her mouth. Honestly, she didn't know if she was more impressed that Jamie just slugged his King in the face. Or that Michael took the impact square in the jaw and his head barely moved. Having closed his eyes when Jamie hit him Michael's green eyes were black when he opened them. "You could have killed her you stupid fucking moron," roared Jamie as he clenched his fists by his side.

Looking from Jamie to her, Sky could read Michael's face clearly. Rinsing her mouth, and toothbrush out Sky tossed them into her saddlebag quickly. Snagging Eli by the arm on her way out she pulled him along with her. "I'd stay out here if I were you," informed Sky before releasing his arm and heading off in search of April.

Finding her and Alivia finishing up with their morning routine they all headed off in search of breakfast. The rest of the day was packed full of entertainment as they all explored the town and met the people. Everyone purposely avoided the festival ground, that way nothing had to be said about what happened that night. Mostly they all played with the kids and visited the homes used as orphanages. While there, Sky found out that all of the babies here were smuggled out or rescued from the alters of the Goddess. With that in mind, she suggested that they send out a flyer to all the major cities asking mothers to travel here in search of their babies. That should help lower the number in the orphanages and raise the number of villagers. Of course, she didn't know how many mothers would arrive and not find their child alive. Even so, she hoped the number that would find their babies alive would outnumber the ones who would suffer the loss again.

After that, they all went to lunch when an elderly female dragon introduced herself as the Tribal Elders mate. She brought up the subject of becoming a Matriarch an asked what her job would entail. Asking her to join them, all three women explained the roles and responsibilities of being a Matriarch. Listening astutely the woman took it all in with a heavy sigh. "Of course your village will be slightly different starting off since you have so many orphaned children," said Sky thinking about the situation. "I might see if some of the other Matriarchs within the bigger cities within the Land of Earth could spare an apprentice or two. At least until you can get on your feet an all."

From there she told the newly appointed Matriarch about what she proposed to the orphanages and hoping that would lower the number of orphans. Of course, Sky hadn't thought about old traditions dying hard. When the Matriarch mentioned that it would probably be centuries before people stopped leaving babies on the alter they all brainstormed. As a collective, they decided to add in a collective or a sisterhood. No one had noticed until the Matriarch had said something that more than half of the orphans were girls. Taking that into consideration Sky thought about everyone's safety. With a shortage of men and the village is out in the open that left this village open for attack. Of course, they had to get through the manticores first, but even then they needed a higher male ratio. Females alone couldn't make babies. That's when the thought struck her. "Why don't any of you have last names? When everyone introduces themselves it's just a singular name."

Smiling the old woman sipped her tea. "Last names are for a family reference. It says that I am from this family, clan, or tribe. None of us have any heritage, as we were all given up, or abandoned. The couple of families who did manage to make it here still carry their last names, but not orphans. Why?"

"Then how do the matting marks work," asked Sky pointing to her back.

"Easy when the female's mark shows up it's normally because she's in contact with her mate a lot. So we gather all of her closest male friends and we ask to see their marks. Whichever one matches hers wins," laughed the Matriarch as if it was all a game.

Then again it was kind of like a game of match the patterns since no one knew what family crest any of them had. "So you can see a males mark too," exclaimed Sky shocked. "I didn't know this. Then why can't I see them when they are naked?"

Laughing April shrugged her shoulder when everyone looked at her. "You know it's hard enough having to giver he the birds and bees talk. It's not my fault that I forgot a couple of things along the way. Alivia it's not like you and your gang couldn't have told her at some point."

"True," agreed Alivia as she frowned at the thought of failing Sky.

"It's whatever, I'll check that out later, but talking about mates, where is your nesting grounds," asked Sky putting mating makes on the back burner.

"We don't have one," answered the Matriarch sadly. "We make do when we can, but unfortunately we haven't been very successful in that part at all."

"That's a number one fix. If you build it, they will come right," asked Sky getting up form the table.

Paying for their meal, Sky headed outside and placed her hand on the ground. Mother we need a safe place to bring babies into this world, thought Sky as she pushed her power down into the ground. Waiting for a reply she felt a swift but strong pull in a direction. Looking down she could see one of the many veins of magic glowing brighter than the rest. Heading after it Sky weaved her way through the camp sights and off to the east. Finding a massive gorge Sky looked down into the blackness. "This is interesting," said Sky leaning over the edge to look down.

"Oh yes," said the Matriarch joining her. "You caused that when you got stung by the manticore."

"Oh, I'm so sorry. I kind of ruined this entire area. Actually this is kind of a dangerous spot," replied Sky as the earth shifted under her feet spilling down into the chasm.

Laying her hand back on to the ground again confused about why the mother had sent her here, Sky opened her mind. Suddenly everything was so clear. Metal dragons needed metal and earth to nurture there young. Like water dragons needed the salt spray of the ocean, or maybe just the higher humidity. Within her mind, she could see caverns within the walls of the gorge. She could feel the heat rising from the mother in a constant updraft to assist any infant in its first attempt to fly. This ground was rich in iron ore enhancing the baby's magic from the mother, helping in deployment of the dragon within. It all made sense but how did one go about creating that. It would take a lot of digging to make that many caves, and how about the updrafts? As if on cue Sky could feel the warm breeze on her face and it smelled slightly metallic. Opening her eyes Sky turned to the group of women who had followers her. "Mother just showed me the best idea! We just have to -," Sky didn't get to finish her sentence as black dots floated in front of her eyes right before the lights turned out.

When Sky woke up she found herself back in Michael's bed within his tent. At least this time she wasn't using him as a pillow. Actually he wasn't present at all. Looking up at the roof of the tent the bright spot on it told her that is was probably around two so she hadn't been asleep too long. Sitting up Sky looked over at April who was laying a book down that she was reading. "I can't believe I'm starving after we just ate that big lunch a couple of hours ago. Oh, I've really got to go pee," said Sky as the urge suddenly hit her.

Quickly getting out of bed Sky looked around frantically for her clothes. "Just use the Kings changer pot," said April point in the direction of the small walled-off area.

"I'd rather get dressed and find a place I can pee without having to walk around carrying my own urine," informed Sky pulling open a small dresser and riffling through it while crossing her legs and doing the I've got to pee really bad dance.

"You think anyone else does? It's enchanted, it cleans itself. Just go pee already," ordered April shoving her over toward it.

Eyeballs floating Sky gave up looking for her clothes and ran over to the pot. Dropping her undies down to the ground she barely had time to sit before her body released the flood. As soon as the gates were open she heard Michael's voice as he said, "Oh good she's up. Perfect timing actually,"

Leaning father back Sky drug her feet out of view not wanting him to know she was taking a pee. Of course, it's not like he couldn't hear it. She sounded like a horse blowing a hole in the ground with the force behind the stream. "You may step out April," said Michael as he stopped on this side of the bed in full view of Sky.

"As you wish your Majesty," replied April as her feet could be heard leaving.

Too afraid to move Sky sat there as the King stripped out of his clothes and tossed them carelessly to the bed. Out of nowhere Eli and Tanner walked directly in front of her to stand in front of a tub. Luckily their backs were to her and they didn't see her sitting on the potty, but it didn't help the mortification. When Michael turned toward her and she watched that one questioning eyebrow go up, she died a little bit on the inside. He must have seen it on her face because he smirked a little before walking over and standing in front of her in his naked glory. Biting her lip with the want to feel the rock hard buns that sat within grabbing distance she fisted her hand in her lap."Your bath is ready your Majesty," came Eli's voice as the sound of feet leaving graced her ears.

With their timely exit, Michael left his post and climbed straight into the big barreled tub across from her. Steaming hot water rolled out of the tub as Michael climbed in. Dunking his head underwater he grabbed a bottle of shampoo before turning back to her, "Are you going to sit there all day?"

On the verge of tears at this point, Sky shook her head yes, making him laugh. "If that's what suits you, but after I'm done you need to bathe," informed Michael before dunking his head again. "After that Tom or Jerry will dry your hair. I'm going to lay out a dress that you need to ware."

"I hate dresses," snapped Sky finally finding her voice.

"I know," said Michael sympathetically. "But today you have to be the Queen in which you are. For that reason, you will have to dress like it. So suck it up buttercup," informed Michael as he began to scrub his body. "April is going to help you bathe, dress, and style your hair. You will except her help because it is her job."

"You're not the boss of me," snapped Sky standing bringing her underwear along with her.

Stealing a quick glance back, Sky was sending up a quick thank you to the Goddess that April was right about the enchanted potty. She had no clue where it all went but it didn't matter as long as it wasn't there anymore. Getting out of the bath Michael grabbed a towel that hung on the rail at the side. Drying off quickly he walked over to where she stood glaring at him. Watching his horns push out of his head as his eyes turned coal black he stopped inches from her. Leaning in until his lips brushed her ear he whispered, "Today I am. Now get your ass in that bath before I give it to you personally."

Suppressing a shudder Sky tried to suffocate her dragon as he screamed, "yes please" in her head.

Stepping back quickly Sky took her t-shirt off, ran out of her underwear, and leaped into the tub. Chuckling Michael walked over to the toilet. Spreading his feet apart Sky could see him hanging low after his warm bath. Unable to drag her eyes from his exquisite rear and the sight of how low he was she starred at him in rapture. "Really," chuckled Michael drawing her attention up to his nicely rolling back with his deep valley along his backbone. Normally his back was covered with his long black hair, so it was a rare but very nice view. "You looked like you were going to die when I caught you taking a pee, but yet it's okay to watch me do the same thing?"

Not wanting to be a hypocrite Sky continued up to his face where he was looking over his shoulder. "So at lunch today we were talking about mating marks and they said males have one too," said Sky leaning on the edge of the barrel tub as she continued to take in the great scenery in front of her. "But I don't see one? Does it only show up when your mate's does?"

Finishing his business Michael turned around and walked over to the tub. Michael didn't miss the hitch in her breath as he did so and a smile tugged at the corner of his lips. His body was already reacting to her taking her fill of him while he was relieving himself. Hearing that was just a catalyst too letting his want for her reign supreme. That one tiny sound told him she wanted him in return. Taking up the bar of soap he tried to ignore the fire in her eyes. They were still her human blue but there where sparkly undertones like her dragon was up just enough to see, but not enough to make her eyes glow. Using the bathwater to wash his hands he presented her his back. Pulling his dragon up enough he pushed him toward his back so that Sky could see his family crest, the crest of the King. "Oh wow," said Sky under her breath.

Figuring she was satisfied Michael was about to push his dragon back down until he felt her hand on his back. Normally her hands warmed him on tough and it was normally accompanied by a slight tingle. Not like a bad tingle, but like the tingle, he would feel in his lower back just before he came during sex. This time her touch when straight to his balls setting him on fire. Groaning Michael quickly grabbed the edge of the tub for support. "I'm so sorry," exclaimed Sky quickly moving back sloshing water everywhere. "I didn't mean to hurt you."

"Should we come back," asked Eli and Tanner as they entered back into this side of the tent. "All of the Lords have gathered."

"Nope," said Michael through gritted teeth. "Let's get this done."

"Are you sure," asked Tanner quizzically looking between Sky who disappeared down into the tub and Michael.

"Yep because it's not going down for a while after that," groaned Michael pulling his claws out of the tub leaving behind beep groves.

"I'm sorry," replied Sky visibly upset as she raised her face up just enough to reply.

"Oh, we're not done with your education. When this is all done we are continuing this, and you're putting your hands on my back again," growled Micheal as his dragon turned and looked back at her.

With that being said he walked over to his dresser and pulled out a pair of underwear. Stepping into them Sky watched him reposition himself before taking the pants Tanner handed him. From there, Sky watched as Michael was dressed in his finery by his guards. By the time they were done Sky estimated that he had to be wearing at least ten pounds of clothes to include the cape Tanner was snapping onto a leather enforced black jacket. Handing the golden chain that sat above the snap over to Eli he snapped all three together on the other side. Once that was done Eli pulled out a box from the upper shelf of the armoire they'd just pulled his uniform out from. Handing the box to Tanner to hold Eli opened it and pulled out Michael's golden crown. Setting it on his head Eli looked him over one more time before nodding his head in approval. Taking the box from Tanner, Eli put it up before following the King out of this side of the tent. Making his way over to the tub Tanner smiled at her before submerging his hand into the water. Within seconds steam was rolling off of the water as Sky sunk below the surface. Hearing Tanner chuckle she rose back up. She could see him walking away just as April made her way in dressed in a silver and black dress. "What did he do? Heat it up for you," asked April before sticking her hand in. "Yep, that feels nice. We have about an hour before you have to join the King. So let's get you washed."

Several long minutes later Sky was sitting in a chair in her slips as Tom ran his fingers through her hair. Listening to the hiss as her wet hair ran across his fingers, Sky sat there and enjoyed the warmth as Tom dried her hair. Once that was done, April did her makeup before she turned to Michael's armoire. Opening the opposite side, April pulled out a silver and black dress. Helping Sky into it, April sat her back down in the chair before brushing and styling her hair. By the time April got done all of Sky's hair was neatly piled on top of her head in intricate braids. After tucking some flowers into the braids it almost appeared like she was wearing her own crown. Pulling out a more simplistic cape April pinned it to her dress. On the silver cape was a black outline of what had become known as her crest. "This is really great needlework? I wonder how long he's had this," asked Sky looking at it.

"The cape and your dress arrived three days ago," informed April smiling at her.

"Really? That doesn't make scene, we weren't here three days ago," stated Sky turning a confused look at April.

"Sky you've been asleep for almost a week," stated April as they made their way out of the back half of the tent.

"No way," exclaimed Sky in complete shock.

"Yes way, but what you did was no small feat so we kind of expected you to be out for a while," said April making her way out of the tent and giving Tom and Jerry a nod. "The Queen is Ready."

Jerry whistled long and low as Sky stepped out of the tent looking like a woman for once. Slugging his brother in the arm both twins bowed in unison before turning and walking off like two well-trained cart horses. Following in their wake Sky grew uncomfortable as everyone bowed to her as she passed. At this point, she was used to some people giving her a nod and mumbling my queen, but today everyone stopped in their tracks to greet her. Making their way to the backside of the campground Sky looked up at Tanner and Kyle who were in their dragon forms along with several of the second tier guards. In the center of the guards stood a lot of bare-chested men. Right behind them were weeping women holding what appeared to be their shirts and jackets. At the head of the precession was Michael and he looked furious. His dragon horns were on display for all to see as his death whirled around him letting everyone know how angry he really was. Breaking off from the group Tom, and Jerry went to stand beside Tanner. Stoping and stepping to the side, April bowed to Sky as she whispered, "You need to go to him and stand by his side as Queen."

All around the people watched her as she preceded toward the King nervously. Even the council watched her closely with stern faces. Except for Shelby who was trying really hard to hide his smile, but Sky could see the crinkle around his eyes. If anything his eyes where smiling at her giving her a little comfort. When Sky stopped next to him, Michael looked into her doe-like blue eyes. He could tell by the rigidness of her shoulders and the tilt of her chin was faking her bravado. Needless to say, only him and his guards would know that she was extremely nervous right now. Everyone else would see only a gorgeous and powerful Queen who stood without fear as his death reached out to touch her. Watching a tendril caress her cheek Michael mentally kicked his dragon.

"I'm just giving our mate comfort," replied his dragon hitting him back.

Lifting his hand toward the half-naked men in front of him, Michael stated so all could hear. "My beautiful Queen I present to you every Lord within the Land of Earth. I do not see what you can and do not know who has killed your children, and who have not. I leave their punishment in your hands. Whatever you choose will be law."

Nodding her head Sky turned to look at the men in front of her. In the very front was the High Lord. To his right was the Regent Commander and to his left was the Captain of the castle guard. Behind him were all of his generals, and behind them Sky guessed were all of the other Lords and their generals. There had to be more than a thousand people standing in front of her and she knew she wouldn't have the strength to look into all of them. Her nerves would be fried after maybe four or five. It wouldn't be like her quick search skimming just the surface. No, she'd need to dig deep, and she didn't have that kind of power. Racking her brain on how to approach the situation an older woman hobbled her way up through the white fog that began to seep up from the ground. Watching her pass through April unnoticed by anyone Skys dragon came up to the surface as she whispered in passing, "It's the mother."

Smiling the old woman patted Sky on the cheek when she came to a stop beside her. Fanning away the black mist that gathered around her she shooed it away forcefully. "Shoo, shoo, I'm not here. Now go away death powder dragon," joked the Mother as the black fog went back to swirling around Sky and Michael. Turning her attention back to Sky the mother smiled again, "You leave the judging to me, child. You just walk out there and touch the lot of them leaving only a trace of your power behind as a marker. When you are done you just let me know. I will judge the lot of them."

With that Sky made her way toward the back row. As she passed each person raised a hand to their chest as they saluted her. Each time she would touch that arm and continued on until the last three. These three she personally wanted to know their story herself. She wanted to know everything about why they were so mean to her, and why their memories were so conflicting with their actions. Stepping in from of the Regent Commander Sky laid her left hand on his cheek and released her powers. Grunting the man hit his knees in pain, but Sky already found what she was looking for. Everything he'd done was because he was ordered too. When he beat his son it was misplaced aggression and the best way to get his son to leave things alone. Of course, it worked, but the Commander cried in his wife's arms later that night because of his guilt. Bypassing the High Lord, Sky stepped in front of the Captain of the guard. Repeating the procedure with her right hand he too hit the ground panting. Again everything the Captain did he was ordered to, and neither men were bad men. Turning back to the High Lord, Sky stepped up to him. Laying her hand on his bare chest he grunted in pain as a tear rolled down his face, but he remained standing. Stepping back from the man shocked, Sky looked at the pain in his eyes. He had purposely turned her into a martyr to flush out the metal killers in his town. To turn everyone's focus on her and not himself so that he could continue the efforts to protect the metal dragons under his care. She now knew about all the attempts on his life as well as his wife, and how much he hurt everyone along the way. No one but him knew of his plans, and it was eating him up inside. To him, his life, as well as his wife's were worth the lives of the many. Even now as Lady Silvanus stood stoically behind her mate, she cried in his arms last night when he confessed everything to her. It saddened Sky's heart that he was to be judged with all the others, but hopefully, the mother would overlook his meanness over the last couple of years.

Making her way back to stand beside Michael she turned to look back at the group. Not knowing what to say Sky looked at Michael for assistance. "By decree I…," he whispered to her.

Clearing her throat Sky tried to project a strong voice and hoped it wouldn't shake like her legs were doing under her dress. "By decree, I have decided to turn their fate over to the mother. The mother has had to suffer the loss of her children more than I. By her power invested in me may you be judged."

Instantly everyone she touched went to the ground screaming. Seconds after that, several of the mate hit the ground screaming as well. The remaining Wives tried to comfort their mates while looking around in panic as blue flames poured out of some of the screaming men's mouths. It took only moments before those men burned to ash along with their mates. The process only lasted minutes, but to the men laying on the ground panting, or vomiting it probably lasted an eternity. "The ones who lived," asked Michael looking at less than half the men who were originally standing there.

"She found them not guilty," Sky said watching the mother walking from man to man giving them a loving pat.

"So they can take back up their mantel and resume their titles and posts," asked Micheal trying to bring everything to a close.

"I don't see why not. If they were bad people they'd be dead," informed Sky wondering why he kept asking her all of these questions.

Turning to the group that surrounded him Michael raised his hand to gather everyone's attention. "The Queen has spoken. All who lived my resume their titles and positions. This court is to now be adjourned."

With that talking erupted as Jamie broke rank and ran to the High Lord and Lady. Throwing his arms around their necks he began to cry as he held them tightly. At that point the light kind of turned on in Sky's head. "I could have killed Jamie's parents," whispered Shy under her breath at the realization.

"Don't think about it that way," said Michael rapping a strong hand around her waist as Sky's legs began to waver at the thought. "They made their decision the day he called you a dog and a cur. I would have killed them just for that. Jamie came prepared today to lose his parents, but he's walking away with them in his arms. Even if the High Lord has a strange-looking dragon burned into his chest he's alive. You're shaking," said Michael looking down at her. "Did you use too much power?"

"Nope there's just a lot of people staring at us right now," replied Sky almost in a whisper as she tried not to acknowledge all of the eyes on her.

Suddenly there were a lot of bodies prostrated at her feet. Everyone who lived knelt on the ground in front of her with their head touching the grass. "My Queen," said the High Lord as he brought his tear-streaked face up. "I am sorry for all that I put you through. We are unworthy to be called your Lords, but we will prove to you that your decision is wise and just. We owe our fidelity to you and the crown, and we give our lives to serve you."

Standing there in shock Sky could see a snake-like dragon without wings graced everyone's body. The creature had a head and horns like that of a dragon. It even had feet like a dragon, but its body was long and slender like that of a snake. Unable to stop herself Sky crouched down in front of the High Lord and poked it. Instantly the burn heeled and left only a white dragon scar behind. Signing in receive the High Lord brought his hand up to the mark letting her know it had pained him. Standing back up Sky could see everyone's burns were now gone leaving just a ghost of a dragon in their wake. At that point, she thought about where she touched everyone. Rushing over to the Regent Commander she lifted his face up quickly. "Oh I am so sorry, I didn't have a clue it would scar," apologized Sky as she looked at that ghost dragon that ran down the entire right half of his face.

"It is fine my Queen. I will take the pain as penance for the pain I caused, and I will wear my scar proudly as a badge of honor. I was judged by the mother and she found my soul to be good and pure. Not many can say that," replied the Regent Commander with a sad undertone.

"True," replied Sky pushing up to her feet and turning toward Michael. "On the upside the head of the snake has been cut off. Hopefully, it won't take long for the body to wither and die. Can I get out of this dress now."

"I think you look very nice in it," rumbled Michael as he swept his eyes from her feet to her face.

"Don't tell me I'm going to have to wear it the rest of the day," complained Sky.

"Oh hell no, that thing is too expensive for you to be rolling around in the dirt in like a dog," joked Michael causing the High Lord to wince. "Go put your boy clothes on if it makes you happy."

Without hesitation or waiting around for him to change his mind, Sky took off at an extremely fast walk because ladies don't run. Plus this dress was nonconductive to running because she was stretching it to its max in her fast walk. Pausing in front of Michaels, tent Sky turned toward April. "So which tent is mine actually?" When April pointed at Michaels Sky rolled her eyes. "No seriously."

"Seriously that one, or did you forget you're mated now," said April giving her a duh look.

"Only on paper," stated Sky wanting to make sure April didn't forget that one fact.

"Doesn't make it any less so."

"So where are my clothes?"

Making her way around Sky, April made her way into the tent and into the back. Pulling her clothes out from under the bed April smiled at her. "Why in the world are they there," asked Sky as she began unpinning her cape.

"You couldn't leave if you didn't have clothes," said April with a smile.

"Yeah I could. If I wanted to leave badly enough, I'd just pilfer Michaels," informed Sky tossing the cape to the bed before pulling at the dress.

"Quite that! You're going to rip it," snapped April popping Sky on the hand before telling her to lift her hands up.

Tugging the dress over Sky's head, April hung it up while Sky shucked her slips. Sliding into her pants and shirt she jumped into her boots. "Where are we going," asked April closing the door to the armoire and scurrying after her.

"I want to see the nesting grounds. I want to see if it looks just like the picture in my head," replied Sky making her way out and toward the big crevice they had told her she caused.

Coming to a stop at the edge Sky's jaw dropped at the sight of it. The gorge was more beautiful than the nesting grounds she'd seen in the Land of Water. Statues of rearing dragons were carved into solid rock were holding slabs above their heads. Each slab led to an opening deep within the walls of the earth. From way down within the blackness of the earth a warm breeze blew up caressing her face. The smell of hot metal and magma filled her nose as she breathed it in making her cough a little. "This is so much better than what I saw in my head," said Sky laying flat on the ground and peering over the edge.

Looking up as a dragon latched onto the wall Sky smiled at the Grey dragon who lowered his head to her level. "My Queen would you like to witness what your work as done," asked the male as his voice rumbled within her head.

Jumping up to her feet Sky scrambled up his face and flopped down on top of his head while saying, "I'd love too."

"Sky wait," shouted April but the male had already let go of the wall. Hearing Sky yelling wee as the dragon flipped them around April shook her head. "Some times I really don't know what to do with her."

Landing on one of the many platforms the male lowered his head for Sky to slide off. Making sounds of appreciation at the interior of the cave the male rumbled. Sky could see smaller human-sized tunnels running here and there was she made her way in. Bio-luminescent green and blue crystals lined the cave casting just enough light for her to see as she made her way to the back of the cave. There in the darkness was a coiled female dragon by the size of the horns as she rattled a warning as they approached. Lowering his head in submission the male beside her made a clicking sound. Watching the second dragon uncoil and raise their head up Sky squealed at the sight of an egg. White light bloomed at her feet in her excitement as she did a little dance. Practically skipping over to it, Sky's dragon head bumped the female's nose hard before squishing her face against the egg. "OH! Oh! Do you want to know what it is," asked Sky as her brightly glowing eyes lit up the back of the cavern.

"You can tell," asked the mother nodding her head joyously. "Please! I hope it's a boy! The village is in need of males."

Sky's smile grew bigger as shook her head, yes and joyously bounced up and down before hugging the mother's nose. "It's a healthy baby boy!"

"Yes," shouted the father bouncing as much as the cave would let him.

Spinning quickly he ran from the cave shouting as loudly as possible, "It's a boy!"

Laughing both women watched him leap into the air shouting the news as he took to the air in flight. "You just made our day my Queen," purred the mother rubbing her nose against Sky before heating the ground round the egg and rotating it.

"I'm glad. I'll leave you to it then," replied Sky resting her hand on the egg one more time.

Sky new the soul within that baby after caring for them all around for so long. Her heart hurt for him, but it was also happy that he would get to live a full life this time. Making her way to the cave entrance Sky could see the father doing loop-d-loops high up in the clouds. Glancing up Sky could see Michael and his guards standing on the edge looking down at her. Looking at their stern faces she smiled and pointed up at the happy dragon before shouting, "It's a boy!"

"So I've heard," replied Michael as he continued to look down at her sternly.

Happiness faded slightly at the glare Michael was giving her. Turning he said something to Johnathon that had him coming out of his clothes. Moments later Johnathon was perched to the right of the cave entrance. Climbing onto his head Sky held on while he returned them to Michael. "What do you think you're doing," asked Michael in a stern voice.

"Visiting the new baby," said Sky as happiness bubbled over again causing the ground at her feet to light up a little.

"You are a Queen now, you go nowhere without your guards," snapped Michael. "That includes visiting babies."

"But April can't fly," complained Sky as her bottom lip poked out a little in a pout. "You can't get down there without being able to fly."

"And the gorge is too small for me to enter," snapped Michael glaring at her. "What would have happened if you needed help?"

"From babies," asked Sky not understanding why he was getting mad. "Babies are kind of my thing. Oh! Check that out," said Sky getting sidetracked by the bright pink rope coming off of Alivia.

Lifting up her hands Alivia looked down at whatever caught Sky's attention. Making her way over to Alivia Sky reached out for the pink rope that had quite a bit more substance to it. "We are not done yet Sky," growled Michael snagging Sky's arm and spilling her around.

The rendering of clothes and the snarling of a dragon-filled their ears as Jeffery instantly shifted. Looking from the frothing dragon to the rope in her hand to Alivia's bewildered expression Sky quickly dropped it. "Jeffery I'm so sorry," shouted Sky up to the very angry Jeffery as ice began to form on the ground around him. "Alivia go hug him!"

"What," choked out Alivia moving out of the way as a drip of fire filed saliva fell to the ground.

"Don't ask," shouted Sky grabbing her arm and dragging her over to Jeffery's leg. "Just do! I messed up bad! Make it better!"

Shoving Alivia against Jeffery's leg everyone but Michael moved to a safe distance. Giving him a cheesy grin as she held Alivia to Jeffery's leg Sky turned away from his angry dragon eyes. Long tense moments later the ice was thawing and Jeffery's breathing began to slow. Turning back to Michael, Sky watched him shift his position breaking the ice off of his body, before growling at her. "Is he better?"

"I am my King," replied Jeffery. "Please forgive my dragon's rudeness. I don't know what happened."

Raising his hand Michael laid it on Jeffery's nose as he looked down at him in worry. "I know someone who does. I suggest you show Alivia the White Woods from above to settle your dragon."

"What," shouted Alivia whirling around as Sky was pulled from her back. "Why do I have to go?"

"Because it was an order," snarled Michael his anger barely in check as he tightened his grip on Sky's arm as she tried to pull away.

Taking a knee quickly Alivia bowed her head. "I forgot my place, your Majesty, please forgive me."

Without responding to Alivia, Michael pulled the disgruntled Sky behind him as he made his way to his tent. Micheal could feel the need to protect his mate rolling off Jeffery in uncontrolled waves. He also didn't miss the edge being knocked off as Sky shoved Alivia into his leg either. Of course, Jeffery's dragon wasn't the only dragon that needed reassuring. Michael had felt the sudden fear followed by the excitement that coursed through Sky. When he'd found out what had happened his dragon was furious. What made the situation worse was the fact he couldn't fit down there to go get her. Pulling her into his tent he whirled on her. "What the hell were you thinking!"

"It's not my fault," snapped Sky as her eye narrowed down into glowing blue slits. "I was just curious about the pink rope and you yanked me! How was I supposed to know Jeffery would react so violently to it!"

"By the Goddess woman," shouted Michael taking several steps away from her only to storm right back. "I'm not talking about that at all. What I'm talking about is you going down into the nesting grounds alone," shouted Michael emphasizing the last word and the sources of his anger.

"I'm a big girl," snapped Sky tipping her chin up so she could glare as much as she could from her hight. Which unfortunately was a head shorter than Michael so he always got to look down at her. "I can take care of myself."

"No," snarled Michael's dragon as he pushed himself forward. "You are my mate and it is my job to protect you. I can't do that if you're going for joy rides with random males into gorges only big enough for green and grey dragons!"

Sky looked from Michael's horns to his dragon black eyes. Even if they were super angry at the moment it didn't change the fact that she found him sexy. The lower pitch of the voice of his dragon added onto that sexual energy that he oozed. Pushing her errant hormones and thoughts to the side, Sky tried to remember she was angry with him. "What do you mean it's your job and it's not like we're real mates. It's just on paper," retorted Sky as if none of this really mattered but it did to him.

Roaring in anger Michael's wings shot out as his death exploded throughout the tent. Blinking out and reappearing at the door when a black claw shot out at her Sky shited again as she looked at a level of anger she'd never seen. The King's body disintegrated into a mist-like dragon as it rushed at her like a swarm of locusts. For the first time in her life, Sky was afraid of the King. Letting loose as startled cry Sky turned and ran. Nocking everyone out of the way she jumped her way through the campground until she hit the forest. Not being able to see a good distance in front of her it limited her jumping ability forcing her to run. Running what she thought was a good distance Sky couldn't hear any feet behind her. Slowing down enough to look back without losing her footing she spared a glance behind her. Not seeing anyone Sky's brought her dragon up enough to look. Way back behind her was Eli and Jamie as they ran in her direction but Michael, Tanner, and Kyle weren't there. Looking up quickly Sky could see Tanner and Kyle flying way above her but not Michael. Jogging at this point Sky looked everywhere for him but he wasn't present. Thinking he'd given up Sky stopped and did another quick sweep with her dragon. Not seeing him Sky let her dragon down bringing color and solidness to the world. Between one heartbeat to the next Sky went from seeing her world of strings to seeing nothing but blackness. Here she'd been looking for Michael and he was currently all around her the entire time. Solidifying quicker than her brain could register the threat Michael was on her. Screaming as Michael throw her to the ground he forced her head to the side. Holding it there Sky could hear her shirt tearing before she got a glimpse of his sharp dragon teeth. Screaming in fear again that he was about to rip her throat out she choked on it as his teeth sank to the flesh of her shoulder. Her body jerked painful upright as if lightning had shot throw her body and settled between her legs. Instantly she was wet and a need she didn't quite understand had her rubbing herself against Michael. When he moved his leg between hers Sky moaned louder as she forced herself against it. Rolling her hips harder and fast she let out little growls of anger. No matter how hard or fast she rubbed against him it wasn't fulfilling this need that burned inside of her.

Nothing around her matted at the moment, but a need to find release. The sound of feet, the smell of her own blood, or the dangerous growl that vibrated the ground beneath her didn't matter. Pulling and tugging as she might she couldn't move the body above her enough to get her hand between them. If she couldn't find release with his leg then she'd try with her hand. Snagging the hand trying to worm its way down Michael grabbed the other one as well. Pinning her wrists together with one hand over her head Michael pressed himself down into her harder and growled. Whimpering in her distress as her sexual tension was being pushed to its limits, Michaels Dragon's voice rumbled in her head. "You say we are only mates on paper, but yet your body withers under me in pleasure. I smell your want. I smell your need. My teeth are sunk deep within your flesh and you bleed, but yet all you feel is pleasure. If we were not mates, then you would be crying in pain, but yet you wimpier wanting, no, needing release. I can give it to you. I can sate this need your body is crying out for. All you have to do is tell us that you are our mate and mean it. You are not just our mate on paper."

Trying to be stubborn Sky pulled her hand out form Michaels hold. Trying disparately to bring herself to a climax he snagged it again and forced it back over her head. Not willing to give in to him she tried increasing the speed of where she was rubbing herself on his leg. Growling Michael shifted his weight and moved his leg so that both of her legs were in the middle of his. Frustrated, Sky tried to renew contact with his body but he held himself a loft. The loss of his contact only compounded her need. Now she felt as if she was going to die without his tough, without his warmth. The need to release the pressure deep down in her stomach and between her legs was almost unbearable. If she didn't find an end to this soon she felt like she would break like a clock coil that had been wound too tight. "All you have to do is say it," growled the High dragon intensifying her pleasure as he licked at the flesh locked between his teeth. Withering within her own juices Sky wanted to scream out in frustration, but all that came out was a breathy moan. "I am waiting, my mate," growled Michael having to fight hard to keep Sky under control, but not let her body touch his.

Switching tactics when her stubbornness was not giving in, Michael flipped the button on her pants open with his free hand. Sliding his hand down her damp flesh he curled his finger in the nest of white curls right at the junction of her thighs. Giving him a strangled cry she tried to force her hips up so that his hand would go farther down. Not letting her win he pulled his hand back making her cry out in frustration. "Say it," growled his dragon again.

"Okay, Okay, by the Goddess okay," cried Sky practically panting. "You are my mate and not just on paper!"

In that instance he slid his hand down and drove his fingers into her over heated and slick channel. She was more than just wet for him, and he felt slightly bad for torturing her in this way, but he needed her to say it. He needed to hear her say that she was his mate even if she didn't really mean it. He needed that as much as she currently needed this release. With one hand rapped around a horn and the other buried in his hair, she screamed out in release. Feeling her soft channel become ridged as it milked his fingers he pushed though it causing her to buck like a bull underneath him. Groaning at his personal torture he brought her down slowly before releasing his hold on her. Expecting her to lay there for a while with as rung out as he'd made her, Michael was shocked when she was immediately on her feet. Glaring at him she did her pants back up before heading off into the woods. "Where are you going," growled the High Dragon.

"To the water fall to bathe," snapped Sky over her shoulder.

"Not alone you're not or do we need a second lesson," asked Micheal pushing himself off of the ground willing to continue the lesson from before.

Grumbling to herself Sky spun around and stomped her way over to where Tanner was leaning against the tree. Snagging his ponytail she began dragging him along with her as he protested, "Why do I have to go?"

"Because you were closer," retorted Sky letting go of his hair so that he could follower her freely.

Tanner walked behind his brooding Queen, trying shove down his giggles. He wasn't sure if the King knew he was broadcasting his thoughts in his anger. Of course, he wasn't going to let Sky know that he heard everything the King had said. One thing that was for sure though, he was taking notes for when he got his own mate. That was one way to release his anger and get what he wanted without screaming or violence. On top of that watching her squirm in ecstasy was a turn on as well, but again he was keeping that to himself. Honestly, he might do that to his mate just so he could listen to her own little mews of want and need.

Dragging himself out of his own fantasy with his future mate, Tanner leaned against a tree as Sky came to a stop at the waterfall from before. Sliding his foot up the tree at the perfect angle to push off should he need to move quickly Tanner closed his eyes. It's not like he needed them to see. To Sky it would look like he was sleeping and she would feel as if he was giving her privacy. Realistically his dragon was up and he was looked at the world through his eyes. Every hot-blooded animal showed up in yellow, orange, and red. Everything else was in different shades of blues and purples. Keeping a watchful eye on Sky he watched her strip and rinse her clothes out. Using the knife he had given her she cut off the shredded part of her sleeve. Making holes in the shirt to run the strips through she used them to tie it back together. After that she sat her clothes out to dry on a nearby branch before returning to the water. Sinking down to her chin in the water Sky sat there staring off into the distance.

Sometimes he wondered what went through her head at times. How does she look at the world and how things happen in it. He knew her brain wasn't wired like a normal dragon. She didn't see things like they should be seen. Was it because she was the heart of the world? Not knowing what that really meant, some people at the temple speak as if she was a piece of the mother herself. That she was the mother incarnate. A form of her to walk the earth beneath her feet. She saw friends in everything, even with beasts that could kill her. Even in the one that almost did. Just like the one prowling up to her now. Was it that they felt the mother in her and that's why they approached her or was it something else entirely?

Letting out a serious of grunts, Tanner knew the beast was talking to Sky. He wondered if she heard words, or did she look inside and see memories. Listening to her reply he marveled at the sounds she made. They weren't grunts or meow like sounds like the big cats made. No they where words but they rolled like water over rocks in a babbling brook. They rang like wind chimes blowing in a soft breeze. Even if he wanted too, Tanner knew that there was no way he could duplicate that langue. The sounds were just impossible for him to make. They were impossible for any dragon to make.

Rubbing the manticores nose Sky laid her head on its chest as it sat down in front of her. With all the noises the creature was making it almost sounded like the creature was giving her a lecture. Either that or he was telling her a story. Either way she sat there quietly and listened with her face pressed into the long fur of his chest. Whatever it was, it had to be helping her as the tension disappeared from her shoulders. Mumbling into his fur the manticore laughed a cat-like laugh before he rapped a big paw around her in a hug. Dropping his paw Sky leaned back and looked at him with as tears streamed down her face. Cringing as the big cat licked her face clean, Tanner snorted a laugh at the sound of the roughness of his tongue against her skin. There was no way that anything that sounded like two grinding stones rubbing together felt pleasant at all.

With that the Manticore gave her a gentle head butt before climbing out of the water and continuing on his way. Making her way out of the water Sky went and checked her clothes.

Pushing off of the tree as she began to get dressed Tanner scanned the forest for threats, then again what would be considered a threat to her. What animal scared her? Thinking back about it, a memory surfaced form years ago at this point that had him asking the question before he realized it. "Why are you afraid of basilisks and not manticores?"

"Basilisks don't care what or who they eat. They are relatively dumb creatures. I've seen them eat a dragon and die from a ruptured stomach because their eyes were too big. I've even seen a baby one suffocate while trying to swallow an elephant and was to dumb to spit it back out. There is no talking or reasoning with them and that makes them scary and dangerous," replied Sky sliding into her boots.

"I wonder why the Goddess would have created such a thing," pondered Tanner more to himself than anything.

He never expected the reply he got.

"The Goddess didn't create the basilisk. She created the dragon race. The creator of this world created them along with everything else."

"Wait, are you saying there is more than one God," said Tanner floor at the thought of everything he'd ever been taught has been wrong his entire life.

"No there is the Goddess and the creator. As I remember it being explained to me is that the Goddess created you and let's say you are a horse. The Goddess is your rider and caretakers. The creator is the racecourse in which you run."

"But there are many horses within a race," stated Tanner trying to keep up with the subject.

"True but the race is not being held on this world."

"There are more worlds out there with people like us!"

Shrugging her shoulders Sky turned to look at the shock and aw on Tanners face. "I don't know. All I know is about this world. The Creator created the Mother and all of her children. The Goddess created the race of Dragon shifters that reside among what the Creator created."

"How is it that you know any of this," asked Tanner unable not to be a little suspicious.

Stopping as she thought back about it the memories seemed a bit fuzzy and garbled. She clearly remembered the conversation, and she even remembered the ending with the old man and the flower peddles. Then the best part where Michael had… Shoving that thought away quickly before she had to go rewash her clothes Sky shook her head. "I remember being really sick. Then I remember I was floating in white water, but the memories were a bit jumbled. It was like I was scattered in thousands of pieces in this water and listening to the Goddess ramble. I remember the conversation clearly but it still feels like I'm missing some things. Like the other woman with white hair riding the horse with her baby. I remember seeing her but I don't remember why. I remember the second time and I remember the-" suddenly her throat closed down when she went to talk about the wolfman.

Choking and sputtering Tanner was by her side instantly. "My Queen are you okay?"

Nodding her head as she sucked in air Sky replied, "I don't know what happened. I was just about to tell you about-"

Again her throat restricted causing her to violently cough and choke again. This time it was for longer and Tanner was beginning to worry as her face became bright red. "Okay," choked Sky at last as she sucked in a breath. "No more talking about that subject."

"Yeah that sounds like a good ideal," replied Tanner still concerned but happy the color was returning to normal.

While they continued to walk in comfortably silence Sky collated herbs and things on their long slow walk home. A fox that crossed their pass even returned with a set of antlers for her in which Sky traded a skinned rabbit for. Lunch had come and gone and Tanner was beginning to worry because her dragon hadn't eaten in days and she hadn't eaten anything since she got up. He was about to say something about returning to town as the woods grew dark but then the sound of children playing made it to his ears. Not long after that, they walked out of the woods behind the festival grounds. Pausing at the sight Sky looked at the newly transformed festival grounds. Flowers of all kinds grew around the lightly steaming white pound that took up most of the grounds now. Children played in the water among the metal statues of dragons and manticores. At the water's edge in front of them was a statue of the Goddess stand-in in the water with her hand out in a come to me kind of gesture. A little wooden offering table was set up along a nice pebbled path leading to the pond. Making her way around the water line Sky took in the beautiful sight of the paper lanterns and the multicolored ribbons that lined the place. Metal and stone lanterns that sat upon pedestals lined the walkway leading to the village. As the adults bowed in greeting as they passed all of the chidden pulled at her clothes vying for attention. Handing all of her scavenged stuff from the woods to Tanner, Sky made sure to greet all the smiling faces in turn. Mortified by their behavior the adults tried to wrangle them, but it would probably have been easier to herd cats.

After they finally made their escape Sky made her way around town selling her bits and bobbles. Tanner couldn't believe how much she got for the dear antlers, but then again it's not like he'd seen a lot of them around and about. With the little bit, she'd earned from her scavenging Sky went to the trailers shop. Finding herself a new shirt Sky walked to the back and changed out it before returning to the front. Paying for the shirt Sky looked at the ruined white shirt with the manticore design on the back. "If you want I can fix that one for you your Majesty and I can have it back to you by tomorrow," said the seamstress making her way toward them.

Handing her the shirt Sky took the two copper pieces back and handed the owner a silver to cover the repair and the shirt. "Keep the change," replied Sky giving them a genuine smile before turning back to the woman and looking at her belly. "You're family is going to need it."

Laying her hand on her stomach the woman eyes grew round. "Really," gasped the woman before turning toward her mate.

"It's still early yet," stated Sky turning her glowing eyes up to the couple. "Maybe one or two weeks, at most."

Squealing with joy, the woman threw her arms around her mate and leaped into his arms. Wanting to give them some privacy while they celebrated in a deep kiss, Sky began to leave. "Congratulations," said Tanner before following Sky out of the shop.

Making her way to the noodle shop she'd eaten on her first day there Sky plopped down and pointed at a picture on the menu. When Tanner sat down she slid the menu over to him. Try as she might Sky still couldn't figure out how to work the chopsticks, but Tanner seemed to be a master at it. Huffing Sky was about to pick the bowl up when the cook brought her a set of chopsticks that were tied around a small black of wood. He explained that they were for children, but it would help her learn to use chopsticks. Brushing off his worry of offending her, Sky took up the baby chopsticks and dug into her food. She still wasn't the best at it but the block helped her pinch the food without crossing the sticks or dropping them altogether. Slurping down the broth, Sky ordered a second, and then a third bowl. Paying for both of their meals Tanner tried to argue but lost. After that Tanner followed Sky back to the dark and quiet campgrounds. Making her way passed the Kings tent, Sky sniffed the air at the entrance of the tents around it. Sky knew the tents closest to the King belonged to the King's Guard. All she had to do was find the one that held April and Alivia. Finding the correct one, Sky pushed her way through the flap. Several dragon eyes reflected the light from the fire outside as she stepped in. Without a word, Sky walked over to April's cot and crawled under the blanket with her. Even though it wasn't really big enough for the two of them April didn't say anything as she flopped the blanket over her and closed her eyes. Leaving the tent Tanner reported straight to the King. Finding him sitting in a chair looking just as upset as Sky had all day, Tanner kneeled in front of him. "Your mate is curled up with April in her tent."

Breathing a sigh of relief Michael ran a frustrated hand through his hair. "What did you do all day?"

"Well, she took a long soak in the creek. While she was there she had a long talk with a manicure who joined her in sitting in the deep water. I have no idea what the talked about. Then we made our way around the forest collecting plants, roots, and some weird mushrooms. She caught a rabbit, skinned it, and traded the body for a set of antlers. Then we returned to town and sold everything for more money than expected. She got three silvers just for the antlers alone. From there she got herself a new shirt, and the tailors are fixing her old one. After that, we had this strange but very delicious noodle soup stuff for supper. In which she ate three bowls of before crawling into bed with April," reported Tanner.

"Thank you, you may go."

With that Tanner stood and left the tent. Sitting in his chair Michael debated on what to do next. Had he gone too far earlier? How upset was she really? Maybe he should have asked Tanner more question before he dismissed him. Wavering back and forth on what he should do his dragon growled up at him, "She is our mate and she sleeps with us. She can sleep with April when we are not around to give her comfort."

"That might be true," replied Michael as he sighed. "But we are the reason she needs comfort in the first place."

"We can be the reason and the fix," growled his dragon as he paced angrily down below.

"I don't think it works that way."

"We are getting our mate," snarled his dragon trying to force his way up.

Huffing Michael pushed to his feet and exited the tent. Passing Samuel and Grant on the way out he patted the air to signal them to stay. Entering the tent April was in several threatening growls greeted him as he entered. Rattling a warning back everyone settled back into bed except for April. Pulling the blanket back exposing the sleeping Sky, Michael scooped her up. Snuffling a bit she settle right back down once she was tucked up next to his chest. Packing her back to their tent he laid her in his bed and stripped her of her boots and pants. Never once did she stir during the entire evolutions. Honestly, he was sure the world could be on fire, while the ground shook, with people screaming in chaos, and this woman wouldn't wake up. Once she went to sleep she was literally dead to the world. It's funny how some things never change. Crawling under the covers Michael pulled Sky to him like a security blanket and finally went to sleep.