Chapter 90

　　The main cavern no longer housed the treasure hoard. The floor had been swept clean, and the gold and gemstones that had occupied it were now stored in the almost invisible caves to the side. His thrones now stood against the back wall. The large space was like an audience chamber, I thought, but bereft of the courtiers.

　　I knew what it lacked. Solid robust furniture, furs on the floor, a brethren wife and a half dozen half-dragon children, laughter, and love. That was what Aurien had envisioned for this space. It was his purpose for the carefully hoarded treasure, for the little side caves with their luxurious furnishings, for the reams of cloth, for the little kitchen and for the bathing pool. This was the family home he had envisioned - it just lacked the family.