The remainder of the day passed without incident and the frozen peaks of harsh white gradually gave way to a hotter environment. The region of Dragon Claw was seldom subjected to the bitter frost of the winter months. The land remained arid and untouched by the snowy tempests of the North. A modest settlement of Droragorian had been established on the surface of the desert plain within the last two decades. Dorian’s band of dragons landed near the main surface entrance to Dragon Claw. A group of Droragorian children swarmed the returning heroes with excited giggles. The dragons let their friends off their backs before reverting.
“It’s Julius!” the children exclaimed.
Julius forced himself to smile as the children crowded around to examine Ileanna.
“Wow! She’s pretty. Is she sleeping?” A
