The King's scowl slowly fades at the sight of the small dragon playing at Makri's feet. "Astonishing!" he says. "Who is this young woman?" #51 | | |
"Makri, your majesty. Bodyguard to Lisutaris, Mistress of the Sky." #52 | | |
The King's brow furrows slightly as he further examines Makri. "Is she an Orc?" #53 | | |
"Partially, I believe," says Arichdamis. "But she is very good with the dragon." #54 | | |
"We shall see," says the King. "Bring forth the meat." #55 | | |
At the King's command a member of the royal household removes the lid of a silver platter to reveal a joint of raw meat. #56 | | |
"Feed the dragon," commands the King. #57 | | |
The attendant edges forward nervously. He holds out the meat, trying to keep as much distance as possible between himself and the creature. As soon as he comes near, the small white dragon starts snarling at him. He retreats rapidly. The King looks at Makri. #58 | | |
"Partially Orcish woman. Try feeding my dragon." #59 | | |
I'm concerned that Makri, being uncivilised, unused to monarchs, and never pleased to be described as an Orc, might refuse to co-operate. Fortunately she does seem to grasp that you can't go around being rude to a King when you're a refugee in his country. She shrugs, picks up the meat and thrusts it at the dragon. #60 | | |
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The dragon leaps for the venison and gobbles it down immediately. There's a collective gasp from the procession at the sight of the dragon feasting happily. When it's finished the meat, it again snuggles down around Makri's ankles. King Gardos turns to one of his counsellors, the most important one, I'd guess, from the gilded insignia on his cloak. #62 | | |
"This woman must look after my dragon. Organise matters so that she has whatever she needs." #63 | | |
