novelhk Page 132
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"Ratam!" Toona greeted her in her human female form, her eyes brimming with joy and anticipation. "It's been a long time."
Casalos could see her almost every day, but she couldn't see Ratambirol. This womanly demeanor, with her heart constantly yearning for her husband's return, wasn't entirely an act.
Ratam smiled and nodded to Tauna, then turned to Pier Garen and bowed deeply: "Lord Garen, it is an honor to visit the City of Glory once again."
Pierre Galen's expression was serious, even slightly unfriendly: "Welcome back, Lord Ratam. First, let me be clear, I am no longer the lord of Waterdeep, but as the acting lord, I sincerely hope that your visit will bring substantial help to our city, and not just be for those useless luxury goods deals. Waterdeep has suffered an unprecedented disaster, and we need all possible support."
Casalos sensed the oppressive tone in Pierre Galen's voice, and he was pleased with it.
"Of course, Lord Garen," Casalos replied in a low voice. "Faced with disaster, no merchant with a conscience would only consider profit. The Iron Dawn has brought a large amount of supplies and is willing to donate them to Waterdeep free of charge to aid in its reconstruction."
Pierre Galen's expression softened slightly, but his eyes still held a scrutinizing glint: "This is what you should do. Considering your firm's long-term interests in Waterdeep and the special treatment you've received from Lord Casalos, this contribution is not surprising."
Casalos maintained his smile, but inwardly he had already assessed the acting lord's firm stance. Having experienced so much, this paladin had finally begun to understand the responsibilities of a qualified lord, no longer indulging in the corrupt and false glory of the nobility.
At this opportune moment, Toona intervened: "Lord Garen, Lord Ratam has just arrived. Perhaps we should let him rest for a while before discussing the aid matters in detail?"
Pierre Galen considered for a moment, then finally nodded in agreement: "Alright, please be sure to come to the Castle District Council Hall tomorrow morning to discuss the specifics. The reconstruction of Waterdeep cannot be delayed."
Having said that, the acting lord turned and left, leaving Ratam and Toona standing at the port. The Steel Dragon Warlock brothers and Fiona, who was also in human form, nodded politely in farewell and followed Pierre Garen away. No dramatic incident occurred—even if the truth were to be revealed, given the personalities of Toona and Fiona, they wouldn't publicly cause any trouble that would embarrass Casalos, especially since this secret might never be revealed.
Only after everyone had gone did Toona truly relax, tightly grasping Casalos's hand: "I missed you so much, Ratam. This year felt like two centuries."
"I missed you too, Tona," Casalos responded softly, gently squeezing her hand. "It seems Lord Garen has caused you quite a bit of trouble?"
"He was just doing his job," Toona sighed. "Since Casalos fell asleep, the situation in Waterdeep has become delicate. The nobles are restless, the Harpists' spies are everywhere, and even dissenting voices have emerged within the Hidden Dragons. Pierre Galen needs to demonstrate strength to maintain order."
The two left the port and headed towards Toona's residence. Along the way, Toona gave a brief overview of the current situation in Waterdeep. The changing circumstances had plunged post-disaster reconstruction into crisis once again; supplies were scarce, and public morale was low. Casalos's educational reform plans had been shelved due to strong opposition from the old guard, including nobles and scholars.
"We need more aid, not just supplies, but also personnel," Tao Na said softly. "Reconstruction in the south of the city has almost come to a standstill, and the port repairs are far from sufficient. Worst of all, southern cities have begun to reduce trade with Waterdeep."
Casalos nodded: "Once the first batch of external administrative talent is brought in, we can slaughter these guys." He muttered to himself, snuggling close to Toona. As Ratambirol, the assistance he could offer was limited and unlikely to alleviate Waterdeep's current predicament. However, through the high-society connections he had cultivated over time, he could temporarily reduce the obstacles and delay things for those self-important old fogies.
Tao Na's new home is a luxurious three-story building perched high in the waterfront district, with windows facing Sword Bay. The interior is simply yet elegantly decorated, showcasing the owner's refined taste.
"This is my new business," Tao Na explained. "We should have a larger base to coordinate the hidden dragons within the city."
Casalos nodded and looked around. "The design is excellent; it offers a wide view and is ideal for observing the entire bay."
After confirming that no one else was present, Toona's attitude softened suddenly. She nestled gently against Casalos: "I'm sorry, Ratam, I was cold at the port. The situation in Waterdeep is complicated right now, and I had to maintain the image of the leader of the Hidden Dragons."
"I understand, my dear." Casalos gently stroked her cheek. "You've done well, protecting the interests of Hidden Dragon and maintaining order in Waterdeep."
"But our demands on you were too much," Tao Na bit her lower lip, her eyes filled with apology, "asking you to provide so many supplies free of charge..."
"Don't worry," Casalos chuckled, "this is nothing to me. Besides, my spouse lives here; how could I stand by and watch Water Deep fall into trouble?"
Tears welled in Tao Na's eyes, and her voice was so soft it was almost inaudible: "Will you forgive my rudeness?"
Casalos understood her implication and gently pulled her into his arms: "Perhaps I should give you a little punishment to remind you not to be too harsh on your spouse in public."
Tao Na's supple body beckoned with anticipation and submission, a stark contrast to the haughty, powerful image of the Hidden Dragon leader she projected in public. She loosened Casalos's robe, her nose lightly touching his chest, then moving upwards, across his collarbone, past his Adam's apple and chin, their cheeks brushing together, their breaths mingling. Then, her lips parted slightly, her tongue slipping in: "Any punishment you desire… I will accept it willingly."
As night deepened, their figures intertwined in the tranquil light of the Suren, expressing their longing and yearning for a long-awaited reunion.
The following morning, Casalos arrived at the castle district council chamber as agreed. Pierre Galen was already waiting there, along with a group of city councilors and chamber of commerce representatives. From the outset, the meeting was clearly political—they weren't requesting aid, but rather exerting pressure. (The remaining text appears to be unrelated and possibly machine-generated gibberish.)
"Lord Ratam," Pierre Galen said bluntly, "Waterdeep requires substantial supplies, including but not limited to food, building materials, medical supplies, and magical items. Our assessment is that the Iron Dawn's cargo holds are sufficient to hold these necessities."
Casalos maintained his friendly smile: "I've arranged for three months' worth of food supplies, enough for the entire Waterdeep City. In addition, there are necessary building materials and medical supplies."
The city councilors looked satisfied, but Pierre Galen remained serious: "Very good, but I still need to confirm whether your verbal promise from yesterday is valid? Is this aid free of charge?"
"Of course," Casalos nodded in confirmation, "this is my promise to Waterdeep. However, I have one small request—"
The atmosphere in the council chamber instantly tensed. Pierre Galen frowned: "What are the demands?"
"These supplies must be distributed fairly, including in the slums," Casalos said calmly. "I don't want to see any nobles hoarding supplies for profit."
The tension in the air gradually dissipated, replaced by a subtle respect. Pierre Galen's expression softened as well: "This is a reasonable request, and it aligns with Lord Casalos's policies. We will strictly enforce the fair distribution of resources."
The talks lasted two hours, covering details ranging from the distribution of supplies to the reconstruction of the city. Casalos displayed both generosity and rationality, demonstrating both the shrewdness of a businessman and a concern for the fate of Waterdeep.
As he left the council chamber, Pierre Galen personally saw him off, his attitude clearly changed: "Lord Ratam, thank you for your generous support of Waterdeep. Please let me know if you need anything."
Casalos smiled and nodded: "It is my honor to be able to help Waterdeep."
Taona waited outside the council chamber, maintaining a proper distance from Casalos as the leader of the Hidden Dragons. Only in secluded corners would she briefly express her affection for her mate.
Back at Toona's residence, Casalos breathed a sigh of relief: "The business is finally over. Now we have two whole weeks to explore the Sword Coast."
Taona's eyes sparkled with anticipation: "I've already planned the route. We'll start from Waterdeep, visit Neverwinter, Luskan, then head to Velen, and finally return. It's a long-awaited honeymoon trip—no business, no responsibilities, just the two of us."
"Sounds perfect." Casalos gently pulled her into his arms. "When do we leave?"
"Tomorrow at dawn, when the weather is clear... thanks to our iron dragon ally, some threats have completely vanished, and we can now fly in our true form," Toona said excitedly. "People will only see two beautiful dragons."
Casalos nodded in agreement. This trip was not only an opportunity to spend time with Toona, but also a good chance to conduct a firsthand investigation of the current situation in the cities north of Sword Unlock Bay. As an otherworldly merchant who maintained "close" relationships with the upper classes of major cities, he could experience the changes in this land from an insider's perspective. At the same time, it was also a rare vacation for him, free from the responsibilities and pressures of being the Iron Dragon Lord.
That night, the two "people" once again "conversed" quietly under the light of Suren, sharing their experiences of the past year. Accompanied by rhythmic chanting and the surging of the tides, Toona tirelessly described the changes she had experienced amidst the turmoil, the forces operating in the shadows, and the reactions of the hidden dragons. Casalos, on the other hand, cautiously shared his observations of the other world, the wondrous landscapes and perilous adventures.
This is probably a unique interest of dragons?
"I worried you wouldn't come back," Tona said softly, her fingers gently stroking Casalos's face as the tide receded. "The temptations of the other world are so great, and the upheavals in Faerûn are so violent, while I am just an ordinary ancient dragon."
"You've never been ordinary to me, and I'll always come back because you're here."
Tao Na smiled and rested her head on his shoulder, her warm breath caressing the "man's" neck, her eyes misty.
"I look forward to every moment," Casalos replied softly, "every moment with you."
27. A different kind of honeymoon
The dawn light over Sword Bay was as soft as a veil, draping the sea with tiny golden glimmers. Casalos and Toona stood side by side on a deserted sea cliff outside Waterdeep, gazing silently at the awakening ocean.
"Are you ready?" Tao Na asked softly, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
Casalos nodded, and a semi-transparent form-changing spell aura spread around him, engulfing the human male's body in a silver-blue light, replacing it with a magnificent dragon over fifteen meters long. Its scales, like meticulously polished silver, reflected a soft blue light under the sunlight. It had a short face, no beak, and wide, smooth sloping plates protruding above its eyes. Its long, flat horns were divided into a series of segments, extending backward and curving downward from the sloping plates, making it look like a copper dragon with a different hue and more elegant details.
Taona also transformed, shedding her human form to reveal her true form as an ancient dragon. She was larger than Casalos, her entire body covered in magnificent scales of deep purple and silver, elegant and graceful.
"It's been far too long since I've flown freely in the sky in my true form." A longing shone in Tao Na's dragon eyes. "Thirty years, fifty years, or a hundred? Aside from sneaking away at night, I've never indulged myself like this before..."
"Then let loose today, and cast aside these millennia-old constraints." Casaroz raised his head, took a deep breath of the fresh sea breeze, and felt the salty, damp scent and subtle magical afterglow carried by the wind. "I've heard that a dragon's roar can awaken the slumbering tides. Why don't we give it a try?"
"Oh, Ratam, you're so naughty," Tauna's dragon throat chuckled softly. "Only now are you going to show me your courtship songs?"
Casalos, however, opened its dragon throat and let out a melodious cry. The rising and falling tones blended into a unique song, its timbre somewhere between a whale's call and a nightingale's, carrying an indescribable, transcendent rhythm. The song echoed across the sea, drawing seagulls to circle in the distance and dolphins to splash in the waves; even the spirits of nature seemed drawn to it. Toona, too, gently opened her dragon throat, harmonizing at the perfect melody. The songs of the two dragons intertwined, transforming into a wordless celestial melody that drifted in the dawn light.
"I didn't know you had such talent, Ratam," Toona said with slight surprise as the singing faded. "The singing of the Dragons is world-renowned, but your voice is purer than any other Dragon I know."
"Perhaps this isn't some innate talent, but rather a fusion of rhythms and styles from different worlds..." Casalos and Toona's horns were hooked together, their tail fins intertwined. "However, no song, however beautiful, can compare to the joy of flying with you. Let's set off!"
Taona nodded gently and leaped off the sea cliff first, her wings unfurling in the air like a giant purple-silver canvas billowing in the wind. Casalos followed closely behind, the two giant dragons intertwining and circling, drawing graceful arcs in the rising sun as they flew together toward the north.
At this time, Sword Bay resembles a giant blue mirror, its calm surface reflecting the colors of the sky. From above, the long coastline appears like a winding serpent, sometimes steep, sometimes gentle, occasionally interrupted by river mouths to form natural harbors. Thick fog rises from the sea, transforming into a golden veil in the morning light, enveloping the coastal hills and forests.
"That's Sleeping Dragon Beach!" Tao Na pointed to a golden beach where, in the center of a crescent-shaped bay, there was a huge rock shaped like a sleeping dragon. "Legend has it that a golden dragon sacrificed itself in a battle with a deep-sea monster, but its dragon spirit continues to protect this area, transforming into an eternal rock that guards this sea."
"It seems every bay has a similar legend," Casalos commented. "Ascraz gives its children more choices. At the end of a normal dragon's life, they can choose to become guardians, literally becoming part of the landscape. Such areas are always the dragons' favorite places to breed. It is said that the nests of dragon eggs born in such places are never disturbed, and the hatchlings living in such places will form a close relationship with the soul of the guardian, gaining the knowledge needed to become strong adult dragons—that is the origin of the original dragon lineage. The Moon Sea, the High Forest, the Dragon Coast, the Great Swamp of Thrall, and other regions are all representative of this kind of guardian terrain. I didn't see any groups of dragons appearing at Sleeping Dragon Beach, so this legend is really just a legend."
"Hehe, we Song Dragons don't seem to know much about these things about dragons. The origin of Song Dragons seems to be quite mysterious."
"It's alright, we have plenty of time to find out everything."
The two dragons continued flying north, overlooking the magnificent scenery of the coastline and inland areas. From high above, the terrible scars left by the tsunami were clearly visible. Vast stretches of mud and broken tree stumps formed a desolate belt extending for kilometers, like a hideous scar on the Sword Bay. Several abandoned villages resembled sandcastles trampled by giants, with scattered timber and stones being the only proof of their existence. But the dragons were always amazed by nature's self-healing ability; new vegetation had covered many of the scars, and although the coastline had changed, a new ecosystem had been formed. Human resilience was also on display; some small fishing villages had been rebuilt, and sailboats dotted the bay, creating a harmonious scene.
After flying for about two hours, the outline of Neverwinter appeared on the horizon. Even from the air, the post-apocalyptic landscape of this major northern city was still shocking. Large areas of the southern and western parts of the city were still underwater, the eastern part had been completely swallowed up by abnormally growing vegetation, and only the northern and central parts still retained the shape of the city.
"The situation is more serious than I thought," Toona said softly. "It seems Nash Aragunda is facing a huge challenge."
Casalos nodded. "Indeed. But Neverwinter has always been one of the wealthiest cities in the North, and I believe it will rise again. Let's transform back into human form first."
The two dragons landed in a grove of trees about a kilometer from the city. This time, Casalos chose a human form that was somewhat different from usual: a tall, silver-haired man with a resolute face and eyes that shone with a unique starlike light, dressed in simple yet luxurious travel attire. Such an appearance was certainly eye-catching—this was one of the common identities that Ratambilol used when trading with the cities of the North.
Toona transformed into an elegant and dignified dark-haired woman, dressed in a long dress of deep purple and blue, her demeanor graceful and composed. She naturally took Casalos's arm, and the two walked towards the north gate of Neverwinter.
"I've already arranged accommodations," Tao Na said with a smile, "the Maple Leaf Suite on the Eternal Balcony, which has a fantastic view overlooking the entire city."
“I thought this was my responsibility to arrange.” Casalos raised an eyebrow. “The Balcony of Eternity? That’s one of the most luxurious hotels in Neverwinter. How come it’s completely intact?”
"The original Balcony of Eternity has been buried in mud, but rebuilding an inn is no difficult task in the face of magic, is it? I sent them a rare piece of Tesser Quartz, which will ensure we receive the most distinguished treatment." A sly glint flashed in Toona's eyes as she avoided the topic that Casalos should be responsible for arranging. "We're here on our honeymoon, so of course we should enjoy the best." She naturally took Casalos's arm, and the two headed towards the south gate of Neverwinter.
"There are twice as many guards at the city gate as before," Toona commented in a low voice. "It seems Nash Aragunda is really worried about the orc threat."
Casalos nodded slightly, his gaze sweeping over the newly added catapults and arrow towers on the city walls, without offering any comment.
As the two arrived at the city gate, the guards, seeing their attire and bearing, immediately displayed respect. Tona easily produced a pass personally signed by Nash Aragunda, and the guards saluted and let them through, even assigning a member of their guard to lead the way.
Upon entering Neverwinter, Casalos immediately sensed the stark contrast between the North District and the rest of the city. The streets here were clean and spacious, the buildings well-maintained, and the pedestrians were impeccably dressed. Magical lanterns hung along both sides of the streets, emitting a soft glow even in the daytime, adding a touch of fantasy to the entire area. At the end of the crossroads, however, Casalos could see a makeshift wooden barrier, behind which were vaguely visible flooded streets and collapsed buildings. The road surface was uneven and full of potholes, and many houses showed signs of collapse, supported only by simple wooden supports. Pedestrians looked hurried and weary, and occasionally soldiers patrolled by, causing passersby to give way.
Several guards stood ready, preventing anyone from crossing this class boundary. A stench, a mixture of dampness, decay, and the sweat of the crowd, broke through the invisible barrier and assaulted our senses.
Casalos glanced at the scene before quickly turning his attention back to Toona. She was a dragon, not a human, and Neverwinter wasn't her territory. Besides, she was here on vacation and on her honeymoon, not to solve Neverwinter's problems. Those post-disaster reconstruction issues could perhaps be left for her to consider after she regained her Iron Dragon identity.
The guards led them through several bustling streets, finally stopping in front of a newly built, magnificent five-story building. The exterior was constructed of pure white marble, and each floor featured spacious terraces adorned with exotic flowers and exquisite sculptures. Attendants in impeccable uniforms stood on either side of the main entrance, immediately approaching them upon arrival.
"Welcome to the Eternal Balcony, esteemed guest." A silver-haired elven waiter bowed deeply. "I am Serinor, and I will be at your service. Your suite is ready; please follow me."
Casalos and Toona followed Serinor into the hall. The interior was extravagantly decorated; crystal chandeliers diffused magical light into every corner, the floor was paved with obsidian inlaid with gold threads, and the walls were adorned with masterpieces and rare magical tapestries. (The last sentence appears to be unrelated and possibly a fragment from another text.)
An elderly man in a suit was playing music on a crystal piano in the center of the hall, and the beautiful music echoed throughout the hall.
As Casalos passed by the window, he caught a glimpse of a ragged mother and child wandering in the alley outside the inn, being indifferently driven away by the guards at the door. The mother's face was filled with despair and pleading, but the guards remained unmoved.
Casalos's heart stirred slightly, but he did not stop walking.
"There are different performances here every day," Serinor explained. "In the evenings, there's an opera troupe from Silvermoon City performing 'The Elf Princess and the Red Dragon,' they incorporate magic into their performance... If you're interested, I can reserve the best seats for you."
"That would be wonderful," Toona replied cheerfully. "I've always loved this opera."
They rode a lift made of transparent crystal to the top floor. Serino led them through a heavily carpeted corridor, finally stopping in front of a door carved with maple leaf patterns.
"The Maple Leaf Suite, one of our most prestigious residences." Serinor opened the door and gestured invitingly, "Please come in."
The spacious and bright suite comprises several rooms. The master bedroom features a large bed that comfortably seats four, with elven silk sheets that exude a subtle floral fragrance. The living room is furnished with comfortable sofas and an elegant coffee table, already set with fruit, desserts, and wine. The most striking feature is the terrace connecting to the master bedroom, offering panoramic views of Neverwinter.
Standing on the terrace, one can see both sides of the city at a glance—the magnificent towers and neat streets of the North District form a beautiful landscape, while the South and West Districts in the distance are a scene of devastation, with shops destroyed by the flood, clock towers collapsed, fountains dried up, and many makeshift wooden shacks crammed with displaced residents. Occasionally, figures can be seen moving among the flooded ruins—homeless people scavenging for food. The three architectural wonders, the Dolphin Bridge, the Winged Dragon Bridge, and the Sleeping Dragon Bridge, have all collapsed, leaving only the 1,600-meter-long stone bridge spanning the Shadrin River, connecting the north and south of the city. Further away, the East District resembles a primeval forest, with rampant vegetation completely obscuring the original urban outline.
"Looking from here, it's like two completely different worlds," Casalos murmured. "And these people can sit here with a clear conscience, looking down on the suffering of their fellow human beings while indulging in a false sense of beauty."
"That's the reality of humanity," Toona replied softly, seemingly used to it. "Disaster never strikes everyone equally." She turned to Casalos and gently stroked his cheek. "We're not like them."
Aren't they the same?
Perhaps so. In a sense, the hierarchy in the world of dragons is actually more distinct, more direct, and more cruel.
Casalos smiled and nodded, temporarily setting aside his complicated thoughts.
"This is a call stone; you can contact me anytime through it. The menu for tonight is already on the table; you can let me know your preferences at any time." Serinor handed over an exquisite crystal, then bowed and withdrew, gently closing the door behind him. Casalos and Toona were now alone in the suite.
"How is it? Are you satisfied?" Tao Na asked with a smile, turning around as her long dress drew a graceful arc in the air.
"Very satisfied." Casalos gently embraced her waist, lifted her onto his lap, removed her long dress, and the two exchanged a glance before embracing and kissing. The afterglow of the setting sun streamed through the terrace door, bathing the moment in a golden glow.
After a short rest, the two decided to take a walk in the city before dinner. They changed into more casual but still elegant clothes and once again strolled through the streets of Neverwinter.
The North District comes alive at dusk, with all the magic lights lining the streets lit up and colorful lanterns hanging in front of shops and restaurants. Street performers put on simple yet captivating magic tricks, attracting many passersby to stop and watch. The air is filled with the aromas of grilled meat, spices, and desserts, whetting the appetite.
However, at the corner of this bustling street, several ragged children were peering greedily through the crystal windows of a restaurant at the sumptuous feast inside. A waiter noticed them and immediately waved them away; the children vanished into the alley like frightened animals.
"This shop is nice," Taona said, pointing to a beautifully decorated jewelry store. "The owner is an acquaintance of mine, an elven blacksmith from Evergrande Island."
Casalos nodded, and the two entered the shop. The interior was elegantly furnished, with display cases showcasing jewelry of various styles. A silver-haired elf emerged from the inner room, her eyes lighting up when she saw Toona.
"Lady Tona! It's been a long time!" the elf greeted her cheerfully. "You've finally returned to Neverwinter."
"Elise, your shop is getting more and more beautiful," Toona replied with a smile, then introduced, "This is my husband, Ratam."
"A pleasure to meet you." Elest nodded slightly to Casalos, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. "I've heard of you, otherworldly merchant. Your aura is truly unique. If permitted, I would be happy to craft a piece that suits your character."
"You're always so perceptive," Tao Na said with a smile. "We came this time to see what new works you have."
Elise's eyes lit up, and she immediately took out an exquisite wooden box from under the counter: "You've come at the perfect time. I've just finished a new piece, inspired by the Elven Crown of the City of Song."
She opened the box, inside was a necklace made of silver and starstone, with a rare moonstone set in the center, emitting a soft blue light under the illumination of the magic lamp.
"This is 'Avando's Tears,' said to be formed from a single tear of an elven goddess," Eleste explained softly. "I spent three months creating this piece to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of my mentor's death."
Tao Na carefully picked up the necklace and exclaimed, "The craftsmanship is exquisite, and the magic is perfectly integrated."
"You have excellent taste," Elest smiled. "The necklace is imbued with a subtle protective magic that can dispel negative emotions and promote sleep."
"I like it very much." Toona looked at Casalos, her eyes filled with anticipation.
Casalos understood and asked, "How much does it cost?"