Page 54 of The Last Dragon
“Have you never seen it before?” Ilian says with his mouth full.
Alex scoffs, sneering at Ilian. “Of course I’ve seen it.” He grabs the last bread stick from the plate.
I roll my eyes, muscles slightly tense from Alex being so close. I need him five long steps away from me. From us.
“You alright, bud?” Raumen says, and the sounds of the tavern resume. I haven’t even noticed the silence. I look up at him. “You’ve been staring at the drink for a while now. The foam’s gone.” I glance at the tankard, the white froth fading into the ginger ale.
“If you stare too long, it’ll stare back at you,” Ilian says with a grin.
“No, he’s just trying to murder it with his eyes,” Nida chuckles.
“Hah!” Raumen laughs and then leans in. “It does look like the ale personally offended you.”
I click my tongue.
“Yeah, cheer up a bit,” Alex says. “Show some humanity. Well, we could all use a break from our brooding.” He takes a bite from the bread, a grin forming.
“You want to keep that tongue of yours?” I comment, fingers tightening around the tankard.
He waves his knife around. “Hey man, I’m just saying how it is. I’m sure many would agree with me.”
“Absolutely not,” Ilian replies.
“Never,” Raumen and Ilian say in unison.
Nida adds, “Nope.”
And Sam shakes his head.
Eryca, on the other hand, draws out a “Well…”
Alex’s eyes grow wide. “Well… screw this unit!” he says, cheeks slightly flushed. “So much for looking out for each other.”
“Looking out for each other doesn’t mean threatening them, Alex,” Nida says, rolling her eyes.
“Yeah, well… when a dragon is getting ready to scorch you, don’t look at me for help!”
“We wouldn’t have in the first place,“ Eryca comments, and it’s like they’re about to go at each other. Sam grabs his head, grunting with frustration at the negativity. He’s not too fond of the animalistic noises that Eryca and Ilian get when they’re at each other’s throats, not to mention when they’re at Alex’s throat.
“Guys!” Raumen says, laughing while trying to make sure Alex doesn’t get to Eryca. “Let’s just get along!” Raumen drags Alex to the bench, scooting and forcing others to move. Luckily, it’s a long enough table to keep four people on one side.
“Just sit with us and enjoy the night!” Raumen says, yet Ilian sneers and rolls his eyes.
“I’d rather get fucked by a dragon,” Alex quips, trying to fight off Raumen’s arm around his neck. Eventually, he escapes and gets to enjoy his bread in peace.
After eating and drinking until our bellies are full, our minds drift to the future.
“So,” Ilian begins, his voice raspy from ale. “What are you guys planning on doing once the last dragon’s slain?” He takes a huge gulp of his drink, eyes sweeping over the table.
Raumen lets out a slight chuckle. “I’m thinking of opening my own bakery shop.” He smiles, arms and hands spread out in excitement. “To carry on my father's legacy. He’s branching out! Might be more than just bread this time.”
“I’ll be your first customer then!” Ilian exclaims, slapping Raumen’s back as he laughs.
“I’ll remain in the Corps,” Eryca says proudly. “I’ll climb the ranks to Lieutenant. Be responsible for those who need strength training. I’d like to lead. You know, protect humanity in other ways.”
She would fit that role. Eryca and Lieutenant Wain are quite alike, both in strength and wit. Nida’s eyes stray, as if she were avoiding Eryca. Instead she focuses on me.
“What about you, little brother?” Eryca raises an eyebrow, focusing on Ilian.
