Moonfall, #2
The Ballad of Falling Dragons
by Sarah A. Parker
Contents
Chapter 19
Overview
Raeve drives a desperate escape with Pyrok and Roan after Kaan collapses. She counters a Tri-Councilor’s song and, with Clode’s aid, holds back dragonfire, revealing formidable power. Kaan takes iron pins meant for Raeve before Rygun arrives and savages a pursuing Moltenmaw. Kaan insists they mount Rygun, raising the stakes of their extraction.
Summary
As Kaan collapses after the Citadel blast, Raeve orders Pyrok and Roan to carry him through the breached wall. A Tri-Councilor leading white-caped soldiers confronts them; Raeve counters his wind-song, then plugs his mouth with Clode’s power, buying time to flee into the alleys.
Moltenmaw dragons scour the city. When a red Moltenmaw dives to incinerate them, Raeve hardens the air, cocooning the group and deflecting the dragonfire, her scarred runes flaring as Clode strains under the assault. The flames relent and the smoke collapses, leaving Pyrok and Roan shocked by Raeve’s feat.
Bothaimian guards rush the alley and fire iron pins. Raeve kills two with thrown daggers, but a wave of pins follows. Kaan slams into Raeve, taking the pins meant for her as the alley walls crush the remaining guards. Pinned together, Raeve senses Rygun’s presence bleeding through Kaan’s blazing eyes and fury.
A mercenary on the red Moltenmaw orders another attack, but Rygun streaks overhead and bites the Moltenmaw’s neck, dragging it into the mist. Seizing the opening, Kaan hauls Raeve up despite his wounds and declares a new plan: they must reach and mount Rygun before the battalion flocks, refusing to leave without his dragon.
Who Appears
- RaevePOV assassin-singer; repels a Tri-Councilor, shields allies from dragonfire, kills guards, and fixates on protecting Kaan.
- KaanCollapsed then revived; shields Raeve by taking iron pins; channels Rygun’s fury and insists they escape with his dragon.
- RygunKaan’s dragon; arrives unbidden, mauls an attacking Moltenmaw, creating a chance for the group to escape.
- PyrokAlly who helps carry Kaan and follows Raeve’s commands during the flight through the alleys.
- RoanScholar ally; helps carry Kaan, witnesses Raeve’s power, nearly falters under the burden.
- Tri-Councilor (Runi)White-haired singer leading guards; contests Raeve’s song until she silences him by sealing his mouth.
- Moltenmaw mercenary riderCommands a red Moltenmaw to attack the fugitives before Rygun intercepts.