The Broken Seal - Chapter 12

The table in the middle of the Annex had been covered with appetizers and delicacies. Crystal flutes and glasses were filled with champagne and soft drinks, and the company was joyous. Seven dragons in their human forms, four Librarians, one Guardian and Jenkins had gathered to celebrate their victory.

Sasha climbed a few steps. « If you please ? »

Everyone stopped talking and looked at her.

« This is a moment like no other. A celebration that should transcend the ages. Six thousand years ago, seven dragons gave their lives to banish seven demons back to the Underworld. A few days ago, seven dragons joined forces so that none should have to make the same sacrifice. For the first time in history, dragons have worked together, instead of fighting each other. Fey Long and Western, united against a common enemy. And not only did we sent Shaitan back to where it belongs, but because we blended all of our bloods, we destroyed the seal in a way that it can never be reconstituted. The Librarians will record what happened, as well as our recollection of the first battle, in the eventuality another demon wants to come back. »

She looked at her kin with affection.

« I hope this day marks the beginning of more cooperation, and more friendship between us. Because even if we don’t need it, we might be better for it. »

The dragons looked at each other with some hesitation, but Cairn and Rowan shook hands and hugged.

« To friends. »

They all lifted their glasses, dragons and humans alike.

« To friends. »

Later that night, all the dragons departed. Some out the front door and up in the air, and some with the back door. They hadn’t shared the location of their lairs, but they had seemed to be getting along much better than before.

When they were all gone, Sasha stood in front of the back door, looking pensive. Jacob joined her.

« How do you feel ? »

She looked at him with tenderness.

« It’s time for me to go back to sleep. I need it to heal completely. »
« Of course. »
« Jenkins is setting the door for me, I’m finished saying goodbye to everyone. »
« Can I take you back to your place ? »
« Yes. She doesn't mind you coming. »
« And how long will you be sleeping this time ? »
« I should be sleeping a hundred years at least. »
« Then this is really goodbye, because I won’t be around when you wake up. »

Sasha put her hand on Jacob’s cheek and kissed him lightly on the lips.

« Why don’t you check up on me in a couple of years ? I wouldn’t mind seeing you again. »

Jacob smiled and they crossed the threshold together.