Disa

Disa swooped rapidly through the twisty tunnels of the large butte that housed most of central activity of Clan Corpse Flower, “Out of the way! Out of the way! The delegation from Light was spotted across the Contagion!”

She had so much to organize before they arrived - much of the clan’s territory wasn’t really fit for visitors yet, and the guest lairs weren’t scheduled to be completed for weeks. There was another infestation of contagion on the south canyon wall, and Navarretia was complaining that the orchards and fields weren’t producing drink-worthy fruits and grains yet. What was she supposed to serve the guests?

Zipping around a corner mentally counting linens, bedding, and food supplies, she didn’t notice that the lamp hung outside the Sorcerers’ complex was glowing red, a sure sign to keep away.

“Gentiana, did you finish the protective wards on the new caves on the eastern side? I need them for the visit…..ACK!” As a wave of white power hit her face-first she abruptly crumpled to the floor in a knot of spiral limbs and wings. While she untangled herself from the ground, a small ball of fury pounced on her, shrieking “MINE! MINE! MINE! MINE!” as it tore ineffectually at her hide.

Gentiana grabbed the guardian pup and placed it into the corner, holding it gently to the floor with her foot as it shrieked in a temper tantrum most foul. She used her wing to help Disa to her shaky feet. “Look what you’ve done!” The imperial pointed to Disa’s side, which now was glistening with shifting runes. “It took me weeks to collect the materials for that spell, and now you’ve gone and wasted it on yourself!” She took a large breath in and exhaled it slowly “I supposed I’ll have to start again.”

Disa glanced at the little unnamed hatchling with a look of chagrin. “I’m sorry… someday this will all seem really funny….I hope” she said, as she backed quickly out of the room, then lept into the air. So much to do, and a little mishap like that certainly wasn’t enough to stand in the way of efficiency!

“And yes, the wards are done!” Gentiana shouted at her back as she zipped away.