The Cedonia Prophecies

Agaricus hoped no one saw him slip out of the kingdom, over the drawbridge, and into the forest. He quickly followed the path that led to the Omnipotent Oak, home of the hamadryad nymph called Lucia. It was a day when the clouds completely masked the blue of the sky with hues of gray and white. The mood was ominous. There was a chill in the air even though there was no wind. The youthful trees stood still all around him. Now and then his eyes caught the colors of wildflowers growing in circular patches on the side of the path. The inhabitants of these patches were the Elle people, but Agaricus did not see one nor did he hear one singing, as most Elle people would be on a morning such as this. All of the magical creatures that lived in this forest were hushed. It was as if they knew of Agaricus’ apprehension. It was as if they knew of the importance of this day.

He used his powerful staff as a walking stick. His footfalls were silent as he made his way into the forest. He was focused on the path, and was startled when a squeaky voice said, “Who goes there?”

A miniature firedrake dragon flew out in front of him. He was about as tall as the wizard’s hat Agaricus wore upon his head. His scales were a deep iridescent blue, and he had silver spots down his back. His bright, star colored eyes narrowed as his wings flapped furiously to keep him at the same level as Agaricus’ head.

“Goodness Saffron,” Agaricus scolded the dragon, “What do you think this is some sort of Panish game? You startled me!”

“Lucia has told me to not allow anyone to approach the Omnipotent Oak,” Saffron said with authority.

“She surely did not mean me, you silly old dragon. I am the one meant to care for the child.”

“How do you know about the child?” the dragon tilted his head inquisitively.

“Saffron, it’s me, Agaricus. I was sent for by the fays and Lucia to come for the child.”

“How do I know you are not,” he paused and whispered, “Malodar!”

“Do I look like Malodar?” the wizard was becoming impatient.

“How do I know you are not Malodar transformed into Agaricus?”

“Because if I were, you would be a pile of dragon ash by now!”  Agaricus stroked the beard on his chin thoughtfully.

“Good point,” said Saffron and nodded, “You may approach the tree. I will keep a look out.” The miniature dragon continued flying from tree to tree carefully watching the path.