Afternoon rolled around, and I was more restless than ever. I couldn't put my finger on it, couldn't ease the pressure I felt all the way to my soul, couldn't bring it to a head.
I wasn't the only one to feel it, either. Running my errands Downtown was an exercise in self-control, and I surprisingly made it through without committing murder. I did contemplate a little manslaughter, wondering if even that could take the edge off.
This was unusual for me. Far beyond my casual go-fuck-yourself attitude and aggressive disregard for most people. This felt more like the impatience of a million people was pressing in all at once, seeking an outlet through me.
Lightning arced across a cloudless sky, followed by a deafening clap of thunder. Everyone around me gasped, turned, searched for the source of the phenomenon.
I shivered from head to toe as relief washed through me. A small moan slipped free, though no one else acknowledged it. The entire world felt still, at peace, and I dwelt in the moment.
Another boom of thunder, this one loud enough to rattle glass and thud in my bones, followed by a mighty roar.
My eyes shot to the sky and the source of the noise. The note went on and on, like a thousand electric guitars, and it began to echo through the canyons of concrete. I knew the only being that could make that noise, but I couldn't see it.
A dragon had entered this realm.
Hungry murmured and gasped when the roar ended, speculating as to the origin. Plane crash? Natural disaster? Terrorist attack?
Another roar began, and I saw him this time. Emerald green, too saturated to be from this world. Massive crest and broad wings, he kited above the city, toothy may open as he called for someone.
For me.
The resonate sound drew to an end, leaving a void in our ears. The opposite of ringing, like the absence of sound itself was vibrating within our skulls.
Humans cringed and fled as the mighty warrior descended into an intersection. I hurried toward him, pushing aside anyone who got in my way. He barely made it into the narrow space, wingtips striking the buildings, trash and debris stirred by the buffets.
We met exactly as he landed, and I suppressed a sob of relief, recognizing my beloved bondmate Azle. I couldn't form words, just opened myself as best I could.
Azle bowed his head and folded his wings. ~Your Majesty. The Firelords discovered your prison's location. With their help, you and the others shall be free again.~ His inner voice trembled with rage and joy and relief.
I touched his snout, tears flowing down my cheeks. "My dearest...I'm glad you finally came for me."
~Not for lack of trying.~ Bitterness filled his mental voice. ~They kept you well hidden.~
A smile crossed my lips. "I wasn't blaming you." I trailed my hand along his muzzle and cheek as I stalked toward my place upon his back. "I shall allow you first kill."
I mounted, and he trumpeted before taking to the air. Humans screamed below me, unable to comprehend what had just happened. I had no desire to explain it to them, only to get home and reclaim my lands.
