DragonBorne Ch. 31

WARNING! This chapter contains violence, mentions of death, and tense scenes!

The sky burned dark with raven-sheened fire in the mountainous regions of western Techstar. Far beyond the lands of Duskonia, an unfortunate town was set ablaze. Most of the locals had either fallen or fled further into the mountains or to the rivers. In the midst of the madness, monsters crawled over and terrorized the remnants of the once pleasant settlement. Leaving little to be salvaged, most of these beasts were of the draconic species– most of which were feral Dracomares with the occasional red wyvern, terrordactyl, and the like.

Following the screams of terror and cries of anguish was an image most terrible. Livestock, townsfolk– nothing was exempt from the onslaught. Nightmare's beasts tore through the homes, ripped apart shops, and voraciously consumed any food sources they found. All of it was lost in the shadows of the dark embers caused by the army of demon beasts. Why the attack had happened so far away from any important or populated areas of the world was beyond even a few of the soldiers among the monster ranks. Those who weren't feral and fought for themselves could only ponder why they had been brought this far out. Amora was among them, and hesitated to carry out her orders of onslaught.

The Frostbiter crouched in fear, standing amongst her comrades as they destroyed the town. Her frosty breath slipped out from between her beak, feeling a stronger desire to put the fires out than to fan them higher. She turned to hear the roar of her lead commander as he perched on top of a silo on a hill.

Firush sat with his chest puffed out to display his chest piece made of dark metal. At the center was a decorative dark stone, similar to the ones that grew in the Dracoria Kingdom. His call was thunderous and demanding, and he bellowed out into the smoky sky as if to call forth a daring fighter. He hadn't said anything to her about a mission out this far, or if Nightmare needed them to do something.

It was soon that his call to the sky had been answered! Another rumbling roar struck down from the mountains, filling the valleys and countryside with a tremble of anger. Another beast around the Dracomares' sizes came charging through the mountain valleys, bursting through the forest and into the burning town! Fury burned in his eyes and a luminous star on his chest glowed far brighter than any of the flames. He was light green with fur that hung like moss on a rock. The sound of clicking and rumbling growls escaped his throat as he stood up high! Adorning his head was a beautiful crown of moose antlers that spread like branches to the sky– each tip sharp and ready for battle.

“Demon beasts!! What have you done to my territory!?" He roared in fury and anguish! "What have you done to my people!? They have come fleeing to the mountains in fear!"

This lone Draco was faced by the dark shadows of what used to be his own kind, their eyes glowing through the smoke with hunger and madness. The term ‘Dracomare’ was lost to him, having spent his days alone in these woods for years. All he knew of them was that they were a shell of their former selves.

Firush dropped down from the silo to face this lone Draco with a chuckling sneer. The large Dream dragon didn't falter. He only stood his ground even as he was clearly outnumbered.

Firush stood on the edge of the hillside, looking down at his competitor before licking his lips with his blackened tongue in a disgusting manner. He analyzed this rare creature before grinning.

"I hope you give me a challenge. The pickings have been rather slim these days." Firush retorted. "Of all these years, there was another Draco hiding amongst the two-legs on this star-forsaken world… My scouts did well to find you."

The Draco growled, tilting his head downwards to display his antlers to the red Dracomare. "So you destroyed this town to lure me out!? You won't leave these valleys alive!"

"I hope you can keep your word with those threats. Many Dracos before you had said the same thing… And they disappointed me." He taunted, climbing down from the hill.

The Draco kept these words in mind as he studied the army Firush boasted. A few ‘Dracos’ seemed right of mind. However, most of them were nothing more than slobbering beasts without so much of an obvious thought in their head. There was no explanation needed, as they bore on their bodies glowing stars much like his. They had been cracked down the middle from one end to another, their very core– their hearts and souls, fractured. The wide, feral, empty looks in their eyes, their gnashing teeth, their twisted forms. He fought the urge to back away, remembering well what happened to his kind ages ago. There was no light left in them. And if there had been, it was shrouded by corruption.

"Do you like my colony? We are a together family… We never go anywhere without each other." Firush mused. "I have come to give you an invitation to join my colony."

“Never!" He spat with a hiss! "I refuse to become one of your pawns! I recognize you… You're that son of the fell king— the one the elder dragons deemed a bad omen."

Firush's grin melted some, his glowing crimson eyes cutting through the smoke. "You clearly have no idea who you're speaking to. As the son of King Raeik, I am your prince. I'm not giving you a choice."

"You're the son of the Starless! You'd have to kill me first!" He replied acidically. "The only one I answer to is The Radiant Dawn, Her Majesty!"

"She's dead!!" Firush seethed! "You do not speak her name in my presence! I am their king now— the throne is mine!!"

The Draco looked around, seeing what remained of the people in the town. Those who had not escaped were not lucky. Bodies of those he looked after were scattered across the burning embers of the town. Their farms were reduced to debris and ashes. Houses caved and broken. His eyes burned from the smoke, but tears began to gather at the corners– for he'd lost so much. For centuries, they kept his secrets, never telling a soul that he was there. It started to sink in that his presence among their home was their undoing.

His nose wrinkled with disdain, his nostrils flaring. He turned his attention towards the self-proclaimed leader with eyes as crimson as his. He bared his teeth at the Dracomare, getting himself in a position for battle. He was not ready to run. However, the Draco knew deep down that this was beyond him.

"For the honor of the Alpha Queen; I, Sir Igneous, stand my ground against the false king!" He said with pride. "I will die fighting in her name!"

"Then you have made a fool's mistake." Firush snorted. "Before we begin… Are you aware that you aren't the last? If you know the whereabouts of Branwen Stormbringer, you best tell me now."

Igneous lifted his head, his eyes widening. “She lives…? I do not know where she's at. And even if I did, I wouldn't tell you!”

"Very well… Are there others of your kind here?" Firush added.

With a deepened snarl, the Draco snorted! "No… It's just me…"

Firush could see a glint in his eye, one that betrayed the Draco's secrets. As Firush got closer, he could smell something. One other? Or Dracomare? Could it be cubs? The specifics were difficult to identify with all the smoke and fire. All that was important to him is that it was obvious he was lying.

"I suppose after I am done with you, you wouldn't mind us searching the mountains then?" Firush growled. "After all, what is there to worry about if it's only you?"

"How about you focus on surviving before you make any decisions?" Igneous huffed.

The earth Draco tensed as rocky spikes formed from his back! Gathering along his shoulders and legs was plated armor made of stone! Moss and vines grew between the crevices of the rocks. At his paws, the grass and earth came alive at his command! Firush was intrigued to see the combination of two powerful abilities in his opponent. Stone and a variant of leaf, he assumed. Firush crouched, lashing his bladed tail behind himself as he flexed his gnarled claws into the earth.

The two dragons started to circle one another, the rest of the colony sitting back and awaiting their Alpha Prince's orders. Emotion drove Igneous to display his ability at its peak, making himself as threatening and imposing as possible. The stone plating he adorned himself with clicked and clacked with every step. It added weight to his body, and it could be heard as his paws met the ground.

The wind burned with ashes and smoke, hazing up the battlefield. It was in the field of a burned farmland that the two large beasts faced each other in. Gauging one another's strengths, their circling came to an end as they stared each other down. It was Igneous that made the first move!

He slammed his paws against the ground, and stony spires erupted across the field towards Firush! It tore the ground apart, sending rocks and earth flying everywhere! Firush leaped over the attack, jumping off of the stone spikes and lunging for the Draco! He crashed into his opponent, digging his claws between the stone armor and biting down on his neck! The Draco swung himself sideways, the rocks that plated his body spiking upward and jabbing Firush.

Impaled along the side of his neck, Firush let go and roared out furiously! He swung his paws with claws ready at the face of Igneous in retaliation. It was deflected by the Draco's own paw, the two getting locked in a dangerous flurry of swipes and scratches akin to two large cats.

Using his raw strength and power, the Draco shoved Firush away with a thrust of his paws before swinging his head downwards and bashing his crown of antlers into his chest! Firush's hard scales protected him from being impaled by the sharp branches, only taking damage from the points that cut through the crevices of his scutes and parts of his neck. Igneous swung sideways in the opposite direction, scratching his antlers across the other side of Firush's body. It was more than the Dracomare expected!

Firush pulled back to get away from the buck's advances! He retaliated by ramming his curled, forward facing horns against the neck of the Draco. They sliced through his fur and skin, cutting into him with deadly precision. Pulling back, he went for another strike, but they were caught between the antlers of his opponent. They pushed against each other, tearing up the ground with their claws and pushing each other around! The surrounding monsters roared and howled like a rabid crowd around a stadium.

Realizing that he was in a stalemate position, Igneous separated them both by jamming a spire of rock between them, surprising Firush! In the midst of his distraction, vines shot out from under Firush and pulled him down against the charred grass. He pulled against them, snapping the aggressive greenery. It wasn't enough, too many had been sprouting from the ground, more than he could break at a time.

Unable to move in time, the Draco slammed Firush with his rocky body, beating the Dracomare down with ease! He was surprised how easily the corrupted dragon was defeated! The Dracomare hadn't displayed an ability throughout their whole fight, and wondered if he even had one? He stood with his paw over Firush's neck, digging his claws between the sectioned scales. Threateningly, he jammed them in further.

"Get out of my territory! You and your colony!" Igneous seethed.

"I'm not through yet…" Firush growled.

Firush grasped his paw around the leg that was stepping on his throat! His claws glowed with a sickening, black energy as he sank them between the rock plating and into his skin! Under the impression that he was trying to get him off, the Draco pressed down harder to hold the Dracomare in place! That is, until he started to feel weak. The rock plating that covered his body began to shrink and fall apart. It wasn't until then he started to pull away! The grip was too tight! Energy was noticeably leaving him.

Firush's eyes glowed a deep red and a cracked star started to appear on him in the same location that Igneous’ star was located on his own body. His own star grew dim in color!

"What are you doing!? Let go of me!!" Igneous cried out with a rumble!

Firush's body flashed in corrupted light that was red and purple! As it faded, he donned along his body an armored set of stones that matched Igneous. The latter was horrified that his ability had been copied! What was worse, his own felt weakened! The Draco managed to pull himself away, panting strenuously and holding his paw over his dimly lit star.

"What… What did you… do…?" He uttered.

Nonchalantly, Firush brushed the wrapped vines off of himself, like dirt on a windy day. Under his control, the vines turned to sickly purple. He wiped his face of blood from their previous scuffle, bearing his fangs that were now elongated like a snake.

"You have a powerful ability, Igneous… You gave me a good challenge! I think I'll keep it…" Firush taunted, standing up straight.

Without any warning, Firush lifted stones from the earth and sent them in a wild barrage at the previous owner of the ability! He fought back by doing the same, but it wasn't as strong. Firush's barrage cut through his, ending with him being cut up and smashed by the storm of stone! Just as the attack had ended, he had no time to react before Firush rammed into him, beating him left and right with stone covered paws and long, sharp claws! Try as he might to catch and deflect the attacks with his stone armor and antlers, it wasn't enough. They tore through his defenses after exhausting him, battering him down to the ground.

Firush charged at him again, sending him flying into the disturbed dirt and grass. Igneous whimpered, licking some of the cuts on his legs before standing back up shakily. It was without mercy that Firush attacked again, trapping him in a circle of earthy spires that shot out of the ground. They laid over against the dragon, caging him against the ground. Vines shot forth, tying around his muzzle and legs. Within minutes, he was immobilized.

His heart raced in fear, his spirit broken. The Draco glanced upward as his opponent towered over him. His form was shadowed by the growing fires, and was surrounded by others of his kin. They looked at him with no remorse or care. Their Alpha Prince once again made his mark by defeating yet another. In that moment, Igneous could only imagine what he planned on doing next. If his colony was anything to go by, death would be a more merciful punishment.

He tried and failed to open his jaws to break the vines. The more he struggled, the tighter they got. Squeezing his eyes shut, liquid glimmered from the side before falling down his fur. He was ashamed of how quickly he had been defeated. 

His eyes flicked to the mountains and widened, before they closed in acceptance. He knew it was over. For that moment, Igneous saw the young face of another hiding in the trees. She gazed on in horror as the Draco was easily brought down by Firush. She hesitated to run now even in the obvious face of danger. No one had seen her yet.

"It appears that fighting in the name of your High Queen didn't do you well." Firush sneered shoddily. "You did more to me than the last few that I acquired. These will need medical assistance." He said, pointing to the wounds across his body.

The trapped dragon glared, muttering and growling through the vine-made muzzle. Firush was amused by this and kicked grass in his face.

"Don't be so bitter, I'm a fast learner." He chuckled. "Do not worry, I'll return your ability to you later. But I need to make a few adjustments before I do. After all, I can't leave a member of my colony helpless, now can I?"

He circled around Igneous, and slowly his monsters filed in afterward. He was surrounded by feral beasts and animalistic cries of victory! Several had livestock hanging from their mouths, and who knows what else. The Dracomares, now close enough for him to see in detail, have been far more twisted than he thought. It didn't take him long to put the pieces together.

Another Dracomare– upright in body with a build like a tyrannosaurus rex with wings, walked up to Firush and scoffed. Beside him was one similar in appearance, but much smaller. The latter seemed a lot less pleased to be here.

"Well done, Alpha Firush. He was no trouble for you at all!" He chuffed in amusement at the smaller one beside himself. “See, Rawzun… This is how it is done…”

"Thank you, Bloodworn. Perhaps a little trouble. I wasn't as disappointed with him as the last few."

Tilting his head and curving his brow, Bloodworn asked, "What do you plan to do with this one? Are you going to do away with him for his persistence? Or do you think he might be valuable?"

Firush guffawed! "I would be insane to do away with him! His ability is powerful! We're keeping him. He would be a fine elite!"

Rawzun stammered. “I-I'm not sure… Wouldn't it be, uh… risky keeping him around?”

“Nonsense, not after we're through here.” Firush mused.

The Draco snarled, a growl escaping between his teeth. He shook his head and pulled against the vines again, but it was in vain. Firush snickered upon seeing this, stepping his paw on top of his head between his antlers.

"And with a fine crown like this one, he's great both up close and at a distance. You don't see many Dracos that have lived long enough to have a set of antlers like these. Frankly, I'm jealous…"

He lifted his paw, walking around the side of the Draco. Using his copied ability, he parted some of the stone cage to give him a good view of Igneous’ neck. "You will be well respected among my ranks. Once this war is over, we will return back home and find you a place among the guard…"

Firush's black teeth were exposed, a dark liquid oozing from the tips of his fangs. Rawzun grimaced, looking away in anticipation. Bloodworn, though, looked proud of their victory.

Igneous’ eyes shrunk to pinpricks and his face was full of fear. In a panic, he turned his attention towards the young face in the mountain forest, who was still watching. He desperately wiggled and pulled against the vines, using all of his strength to try and fight them once again! This time, he managed to rip them! The stone cage busted from his large body shoving up against them, and he roared out furiously while making one final slash at Firush's face! It sliced across his eye, leading the Alpha Prince to shriek!

Igneous shot his gaze back to the forest and stomped his paws down to the ground with enough force to crack the earth, sending a flurry of jagged rocks flying out like a wall to surround the immediate area! Where they had stood had caved into a crater. The young face that had been watching was now obscured by the shattered, caved in ground! The scars of an earthquake had rumbled through and busted up the grass, and many within the army of monsters fought to keep their footing over the trembling ground. Some had been lost and crushed alive within the cracks that split the ground open. The young face in the forest had not seen what else transpired behind the cave-in, sparing her a horrid sight.

"Arghh!! How dare you!!" Firush exclaimed with his injured eye shut. He had his paw resting over the corner of his muzzle where the Draco had clawed him!

"The Starlight will never die, and I will always stand for Her Grace!" The Draco roared! "So long as Branwen stands in your way, there's always hope! As one of the Queen's knights– even if I fall, your reign shall not last, Starless Blight!"

Firush used more vines to pull him down, giving him no chance to fight! They tightened around his neck, gagging him from speaking anymore than he already had! Firush opened his mouth widely, clamping his blackened teeth down over the side of his neck!

Within mere moments, his body started to tense and his pupils shrunk around the crimson red void in his eyes. Tears gathered in them, fully aware of what was happening to him. He became feral on the outside, roaring and crying out in pain and anger! Once Firush was done, he pulled away as fast as he could to avoid being slashed into pieces by the now monsterly dragon. With a single roar of order from Firush, the other Dracomares jumped in to hold the Draco down. Even in his maddened state, he was no match for the rest of the colony.

Firush panted, gritting his teeth and favoring the wound on his face. “Zedei, help with holding him down…” He demanded frustratedly to an armored Dracomare nearby.

“Aye, sir!” Zedei answered quickly before jumping in.

Firush’s nostrils flared before turning his head towards Amora.

"Get over here!" Firush yelled, his voice shaking her core!

"Y-yes, sir!" She peeped.

She ran over and immediately began to take care of his wounds. Meanwhile, Bloodworn studied the other members of his colony as they held down the quickly corrupting Draco. He lashed and fought underneath them, ramming his antlers up and around while gnashing his teeth at the air. Bloodworn was unbothered by the scene, having seen this song and dance many times. He was impressed with the fight in this one. Rawzun though had to look away. The young Dracomare couldn't bare to watch yet another like so many before.

Bloodworn returned to Firush's side, lifting his eyes in surprise.

"Are you alright, sir?"

"What do you think!?" He seethed venomously. "I think my eye is ruined… Ugh… I underestimated him…"

"Well, after his corruption is finalized, he won't be a problem to you anymore." Bloodworn mused, glancing at their new 'ally' while he struggled. "He'll make an excellent soldier."

"Yes, quite… Branwen is still an issue, though… He was right about that." Firush spat. "She always slips away."

Bloodworn thought about the battle that just transpired. Seeing how well Firush handled him, he found himself confused about Branwen.

"Forgive me for asking… But you've had many encounters with the deserter. Why haven't you just poisoned her yet?"

Slowly, the Alpha Prince turned his head toward Bloodworn with a thoughtful hum and his paw up to his chin. His actions were arrogant and fake.

"Oh, hmm… I wonder…”

Firush grabbed a chunk of the broken ground and threw it at Bloodworn suddenly!

"Don't question my decisions! Or do you not trust in your Alpha King!?"

Rawzun ducked and crawled away while Bloodworn dodged it, holding his front legs up! "I do! I do, sir!" He corrected! “It is a valid question, though…”

"It is." Amora parroted quietly while cleaning Firush's wounds.

Firush growled, sitting back down and relaxing. "... Because the last time my father  tried to corrupt someone of similar blood, they were too powerful to control and they became an unstoppable force of nature." He chuffed. "And… that Starlight…"

"The Starlight, sir?" Bloodworn asked.

Grumbling and muttering, the red Dracomare shook his head. "… I'm not sure she can be corrupted easily, if at all… Remember, Sir Gallant has his power because of her. I've seen her use it. Her brother, as well. I've still not found Leon again. He's just as irksome as Branwen.”

Bloodworn chuffed irritably at Leon's name. "Hmpf... I've got a bone to pick with him. I would love to find him."

He kicked a rock away, leaning down so Amora could clean his face.

"After the last encounter with Branwen a few years ago, I've decided to give up on trying to capture her." He thrummed like distant thunder. “After all these years, I don't know if she's figured out how to control it. Due to the risks, I'm not wasting my venom. I've seen her form light up with the aurora, so it is not worth the chance."

"But sir, with her in the way—" Bloodworn began.

"She won't be in the way! The next time I see her, I'll kill her!" He spat while throwing his paw out! "And once I'm done with her, I'll slaughter everyone else… Once I find Leon, I'll rip his throat out, too. Nothing will stop me from earning what I am owed— nothing!!”

After a while, the rest of the monsters had their way with the town. The Draco that lost the fight with Firush was eventually allowed up. He had now joined the others as a soul-shattered Dracomare. As promised, his ability was returned to him now that he was under Firush's control and his wounds were mended by Frostbiters.

By now, the fires had ceased, leaving nothing but the burnt remains of the town that used to be so lively. If anyone dared to return, there would be nothing left for them to find.

Once the army of monsters got what they needed, they all took to the skies and flew away, disappearing into the smoke and clouds of the falling night. Firush led the charge with pride in himself for another successful hunt. Amora, however, couldn't help but look to their new addition with shame. He flew close to his new leader, his eyes empty and lacking heart. The darkness that ran through his veins was deep with no known cure. She wasn't sure if he was aware of his predicament anymore, but he wouldn't be able to do anything about it anyway. He served Firush now.

Amora hung low beneath the group, not wanting to share a flying space with the rest of them. The Frostbiter could only tighten her beak in frustration… She could fight, but she wasn't sure if she was a match for Firush. She wanted badly to quit- though that was never an option.

As they drew further away from the mountainous town, she looked down at the wreckage and took a deep breath. The ground had been caved in almost completely by Igneous, and Firush never went back for soldiers that perished in the landslide around it all. The earth-shattered bowl was an eyesore, a scar of a battle that was lost. There wasn't a living thing left, it seemed. That is, until her sharp eyes honed in on something moving. Something smaller than the Dracomares. Perhaps about the size of a large dog? Her heart sunk when she saw the gazing eyes of a young Draco or Dracomare– she couldn't tell from a distance. She was in the field where the fight took place, running along desperately underneath the hoard of monsters as they flew away. It was obvious who she was looking for.

Hearing Firush call orders, Amora glared at her commander, though was relieved that he didn't hold his word to search the mountains. Or perhaps he reveled in his victory so much that he forgot? Whatever the case, a cub had been left behind, and they needed that Draco he just took. Amora clamped her teeth and flexed her claws.

"Amora! Come!" Firush demanded.

Holding her breath, she withheld the desire to argue. She raised her wings and flapped them hard to cover the distance between herself and her commander. Once she was at his side, he turned an eye to her, the other one clearly gnarled by the Draco's attack. She told him she couldn't heal it well enough, however it was hard to say if this was true or if she just decided not to.

"Yes, sir?"

"I'm sending some of the soldiers out across the continents to scout for Branwen and other Dracos…" Firush said. "You are to go with them by splitting up and exploring the lower lands of each continent. I have a big battle to attend soon, so I do not have time to do so myself."

"You say to look for Branwen… What about Aeternitas and the ship stuff? Isn't that what Nightmare and the commissioner asked us to do?"

He frowned, sneering at the reminder. “We don't have time for those ridiculous requests right now. We have to pick up the slack on Foxwrath's squad now.” He growled. “Frankly, the only thing I care about is finding the deserter and finally securing my place."

He shot her a stern glare. “Return to base every now and then to give me your report. I'll need you for the time our big move comes.”

"Yes, sir." She replied dryly. She was being allowed to leave unsupervised. She could take advantage of this.

She veered off, scattering to the wind alongside multiple other varying monsters. Each one flew in a different direction, carrying out their orders loyally. Amora started to fly south, but turned around once she was out of eyesight. She returned to the western mountains to look for the youngling she saw from the skies.

Firush pulled a peculiar black feather that looked like a plume from Pumpkin's kind from his pouch, holding it forward while focusing on a direction. Energy shot from the feather, tearing a crack in space open in sky in front of him. It created an unstable star rift. The large flock of beasts darted through the portal as fast as they could before it could close.

On the other side was the abandoned fortress in the sky the commissioner called home. As he had grown used to doing by now, he and his squadron prepared to stop at the foot of the castle in the gardens. They all landed, ready to rest their wings after a long day of pillaging. Firush especially was exhausted, even if he didn't show it. He counted heads quickly before leaving to get a drink at the garden fountain.

He limped between his soldiers, taking a moment to admire his recent hunt. The Draco he added to his colony had evolved more in his corruption, getting darker in color and growing spikes in new places. Firush smiled, nodding at the obedient puppet. The fresh cadet watched him blankly, wearing a slight snarl.

"You still in there?" He teased. "Or are you warming up to the new look?" He finished with a dark chuckle.

One of the monsters ran up to Firush, one that was intelligent and capable of speech. They bowed their head in respect upon seeing him. Perhaps to stay on his good side or to not be eaten… He was in a good mood tonight, visible by the grin he sported. He gave the unnamed soldier his attention, evident by a patient stare.

"Lord Firush! It's Foxwrath… After so long, he has finally returned! He survived!" The beast informed excitedly! "He has come to deliver information that he gathered while he was away!"

This evoked a surprised response from Firush. His eyes widened, turning a margin white around his hazy pupils. "You don't say? Not many have survived the deserter's plasma cannon. Is he in one piece?"

The monster sat on its haunches, shrugging its shoulders and holding its paws up in a balancing fashion.

"Erm… No… it is no wonder that he was gone for so long… He does not look fit for battle these days."

Firush pursed his lower lip out, replying with a small, "Hm" of intrigue. Lacking any sympathy, he chuckled.

"You'd have to be tough to survive something like that. Where is he?"

"At the garden fountain, sir."

"Good." He mused. "I'll have to visit him to see what he has to offer. I was on my way there right now."

Contented, Firush pressed through the overgrown bushes and flowers. He could hear the running water. It smelled fresh. He licked his lips at the thought of tasting it. Even a degenerate monster requires rest and sustenance.

When he rounded a corner, he saw another monster sitting at the fountain. A large vulpine beast covered in icy spikes and thick fur. As Firush entered the scene, he caught the glowing yellow eye of the fox. Firush had no response to seeing the damages his comrade had endured. He was only happy that it wasn't him. With clear arrogance, he chuckled some more and trotted over to the opposite end of the fountain from Foxwrath.

"Look what the Fox dragged in! You're looking great, Fox." Firush mused in a patronizing way.

The fox glowered, showing immediate disdain. "Shut up… You don't know what I've been through."

Firush sat down, leaning his paws over the brick edging of the fountain.

"You simply must tell me how you survived! Last I heard, you have been fried by Branwen's plasma cannon! In water no less."

The vulpine exhaled icy mist from his nose– which was partially gnarled in one nostril with craters of plasma burns.

"By the literal skin of my teeth. I was able to get out of the way for the most part… As you can see, one half of my body wasn't so lucky. She's dangerous now that she's got that two-leg man cub…"

A boisterous laugh escaped the Dracomare!

"That's what happens when you play with your food! If you just killed the commissioner's pet and ran off with the child, things would have gone swimmingly."

The fox hissed, leaning forward on his one good front leg. His right leg was mostly missing and the whole right side of his body was charred, missing fur with gnarly scars all the way down.

"My, aren't you feeling jolly and hypocritical today? Isn't that how Branwen had escaped you many times in the past? You delight in having a chase before the kill."

Firush scoffed. "This isn't about me… I was told that you had gathered more information?"

Foxwrath huffed. Typical of him to change the subject once his hypocrisy was pointed out.

"Oh yeah? What about you? I was told that you went off on another impromptu pillaging trip… You're going to catch Star Warrior attention if you keep going off the beaten path!" The fox growled with a wrinkled face.

"Relax, I was just recruiting another member of the squadron. We found a good one this time." Firush said before getting a drink. He lapped up the water a few times before turning to look at Foxwrath. "After this next upcoming siege, I'm going to find Branwen and finally put an end to her."

Foxwrath narrowed his eye after rolling it. "Right, like it was so successful the last several times… This obsession with that Draco is going to make you end up like me." He warned, waving the nub where his missing leg used to be.

"It's not my fault that you weren't strong enough…"

"No, I'm smart!" He hissed! "I came back to base to give what little information I had. What that information is happens to be none of your concern. Because obviously, you don't care about the task Nightmare gave us. After this? I'm quitting… I have a goal of my own, and it doesn't pertain to this war. It's personal."

Firush guffawed loudly, catching the attention of many of the monsters nearby. "Don't make me laugh! You can't just walk away from Nightmare!"

"I can, and I will!" Foxwrath grumbled. "The planet takeover was going so well until you found that damn Draco! And then you had to go and tell Lord Nightmare about the stupid blueprints, and it threw everything off! Now we've all been scattered in many directions, and you can't even do what you're told! If you didn’t have control over those Dracomares and you weren't being milked for your venom like a cow, he'd have no use for you."

"Watch your tongue, Fox, or I'll tear it out of your mouth!" Firush threatened! "I'm not obsessed! It is my right to have what my father left me, and she's the only one in my way! I have captured and killed nearly every last Draco except her! I cannot allow this failure!”

"Why? Because she's a threat to you? It is no one's fault that you have daddy issues." Foxwrath replied with a grin. "I'm telling you now, if you just keep doing as you're told, once this world is ours, you'll have all the power you need to easily make anyone bow.”

Foxwrath turned away from the fountain, glancing at his mutilated side.

"As for me? I can no longer fight armies. Sure, my ice is strong, but I've lost in my rivalry with the Radiant Raven. While I was lost out in those woods for so long, I came to accept that my time as one of Nightmare's elites has come to an end… Besides, it is no loss to my master. He'll probably just make another one like me…"

Firush rolled his eyes, raising the side of his lip in a mocking fashion.

"Yes, that's all very deep. Good for you for finding enlightenment. If you intend to go, then be gone with you."

Foxwrath raised his eye at Firush. Even he, the heartless fox, was baffled by this Dracomare's arrogance and inability to display honor for an ally of equal status. Usually he would admire such wicked nature.

"Then I suppose that is it. If you continue to pursue this endless fracas with the Draco and her knight, may the winning side be in your favor… Oh, and nice battle scar…" He mused, pointing out his damaged eye by motioning to his own. "Heheh… An eye for an eye, eh?"

Firush snorted, a puff of black energy escaping his nostrils. "At least I didn't get mine from a child two-leg…"

A bittersweet chuckle escaped the fox, turning away somewhat "I guess so… Farewell then, Firush. I warn you again to be careful… You lead one of Nightmare's most powerful squadrons, and stand at the front of his most valuable prizes of victory. If you cause him to lose it all, just know that his punishment will not be just."

Foxwrath turned, limping pathetically away from the fountain. His head was hung low in defeat, and his tail dragged the ground. Firush sneered at the monster for giving up, shaking his head at how embarrassing it was. One of the strongest elites for several centuries, and this is how he lets it end? He felt nothing for the warnings nor the goodbye.

Firush waved his paw in Foxwrath's direction, not caring if he ever saw him again. It just allowed him more time in the spotlight without another squadron general telling him what to do. It was no loss on Firush's part.

The rolling hills of Steamgear's southern shores and forests were cool and foggy. The taste of rain permeated the air, and the smell of hanging storm clouds left the sailors of Portside feeling nostalgic of the salty sea. Gyatso was busy aboard his ship checking the scanners as he did daily. With the birth of Avizandum, he was vigilant to keep an open eye, ear, and nose out for looming dangers. Much to his relief, he has found no such thing.

He left the bridge of his ship, walking out onto the deck to analyze the density of the fog that hung low over the oceanside town. Casually lazing about, his crew enjoyed this relaxing weather by either taking a nap, having a nice lunch, or daring another crewmate to do something stupid from the impulsive boredom some of them experience.

Maylee sang to herself as she mopped the front of the deck. Her hair was pulled up high in a bun, swinging around the handle of the cleaning tool. In the process of her jovial activity, she paused upon seeing her captain quietly leaving his quarters to exit the ship.

"Are things all clear today?" She asked, pretending that she wasn't singing and dancing with the mop.

Gyatso smiled at her, respectfully not acknowledging her song and dance. "Aside from this fog? Yes. I'll check again later tonight."

"Where are you going?" She asked.

He fixed his pipe in his beak, chewing on it a few times before answering. "Galahad and I are off to have a drink at the pub. Feel free to join us later if you want."

"Thank you, sir." She answered with a nod.

The albatross moseyed down the plank to the dock, disappearing into the foggy haze down the shore. Silent as a phantom, he came and went without notice to many. The sand was cold against his feet, moist from the ebbing waves that rolled in and out. He was at peace with everything as it was and found himself smiling more these days. As most know, Gyatso was a man of few words and even lesser shown emotion.

On his way to the town, he surveyed the ocean life and children as they ran up and down the beach collecting shells and playing make believe. A few waved at him, prompting him to wave back with one wing as the other one solemnly rested behind his back. He made his way further up the shore until he was on one of the stone paths that led into the town. He caught the greetings of passing fishermen, nodding at them respectfully and wishing them a fruitful hunt.

Once inside the bustling town, he thought to himself about how much things had changed. There were more houses, and the town was more lively with art and businesses. With the recent events of the hatching Draco, it made him grin fondly and reminisce about a time long ago. Back when this little town was a lot less colorful, run by boring, drunken seafolk and paranoid sailors that spoke of monsters and beasts of the sea.

Now there were paths decorated with shells and paw prints that lined the sides of the roads. Along these paths and streets, walls covered in painted imagery of Viviane and Roark stood as frequent reminders of Portside's beloved treasures. Their appearances were painted and carved all over the seaside settlement in different artistic interpretations that were about as varied as the people who lived here. It was evident that they really loved their guardian dragons.

The albatross made his way to the center of town, where the streets were mild with traffic but decorated by the passing sounds of people walking along the sidewalk. At the center of it all, there was a beautiful mural painted of Roark that was often admired by locals. It was majestic and ferocious all once! He flew over a raging sea with his mouth open, displaying his teeth! With claws extended and his stylized cloudy-looking mane blowing behind him, it was imposing and regal. Yet, so much more fierce than the real thing tended to be. Gyatso chuckled when he thought about this comparison.

He stopped at the mural to meet Galahad there. The elder knight was already waiting on him, standing there with Luthais and Zeelo. The latter was wearing a shirt that said "Bate's Tackle'n Bait". With a sandwich in hand, Zeelo was munching away on it while holding it high out of reach of Avi– who was eagerly leaning up against the teen with sloppy balance. Both Galahad and Luthais laughed at Zeelo's predicament.

"Avi, no! I can't give you my sandwich!" Zeelo said! "That's all I have until lunch break is over!"

The red cub held his mouth open like a baby bird, urging Zeelo to drop the food in. Every now and then, he nudged his nose against him and whined.

Galahad laughed, rubbing his hand between the ears of the begging Draco. "Besides, you'll spoil your lunch, m'boy." Galahad answered jovially. "Your mum will be back soon."

Avizandum stretched out his long body, looking backwards at Galahad while he was still leaning on Zeelo. He pouted, his little tail dropping between his legs. His big, adorable eyes were full of longing.

Luthais smiled, leaning in to look at Avizandum. "Barely a month old and already so spunky! You'll learn eventually that patience is a virtue, little guy. It's not nice to beg for people's food."

Avizandum obviously didn't understand this. His oversized floppy ears hung along the side of his head as he tilted it. All he knew was that he was hungry and he wanted someone to feed him. He smacked his gums together before making a noise that could be compared to a whine and a clicking purr.

One of his ears flicked, leading his attention towards the approaching albatross. He perked up and his tail wiggled! He yipped at Gyatso and ran over to him with excitement! He stumbled and tripped every few steps, running around the bird and sniffing him all over. The man chuckled and patted his wing over the small dragon's head.

"You are as spry as ever, Avizandum. It is good to see you." He said softly.

With a theorizing raise of the eye, Galahad crossed his arms and chuckled. "It's not like him to run away from a source of food. Have you been sneaking him sardines again?"

"No, of course not." He fibbed innocently. "What gives you that idea, my old friend?"

"They're small enough for him to swallow. Roark told me that you used to sneak him sardines when he was a cub." Galahad said while pointing and waving his finger at him. "Oh, but perhaps I'm just overanalyzing."

"I would say you are." Gyatso teased.

Gyatso stopped at the mural with the rest of them as Avi ran circles around him. He purred and rumbled while rubbing his side and back up against Gyatso before sliding this attention to Galahad and Luthais. Feeling like he buttered them up, he parked his butt in front of the adults and held his mouth open again. Galahad looked at Gyatso.

"Hm… I was wondering why he started doing that." The old man mused.

Gyatso slipped a closed can out of his pocket, opening it and pulling a sardine out. Quickly, he tossed it into the baby Draco's mouth. He snapped his toothless gums over it, smacking his lips a few times before swallowing it whole.

"That's all for now. The rest are mine." Gyatso smiled.

Zeelo stuffed the rest of his sandwich in his mouth while Avi wasn't looking. The baby had all but forgotten about the sandwich, and it wouldn't be seen again to remind him. Avizandum continued to beg, going partially ignored by the rest of the adults.

"I'm surprised he's without his father and mother. Where are they?" Gyatso asked.

"I convinced Branwen to go and hunt with Roark. She gets all mopey when someone has to hunt for her for long enough." Galahad replied. "Besides, she's been cooped up with the egg and cub so much that she needed to stretch her wings."

Luthais laughed, "You're the only one who could ever convince her to leave her cub with anyone."

Zeelo crunched up the wrapper of his deli sandwich and shoved it in his pocket for a trash can later. "Yeah, she's kinda clingy."

"Not that any of us blame her." Galahad added. "Roark has done well to soothe her anxiety. He's honestly the best mate she could have had. It puts my soul at ease."

"Still… I find myself worried." Luthais began. "The news around the world is getting more and more grim. Just this morning, the remains of a small town in the rural continents were found burnt to the ground. It looked like an earthquake had gone through it. There was a cave in near a farm house, too. It looked unnatural. There were monster remains and Dracomare skeletons buried there..."

Galahad flicked his eyes to the Draco cub when he licked the elder's hand to ask for attention.

"There is that, yes… Arthur and his men left early this morning after hearing about it. It was baffling, because there was nothing seemingly important out there."

Zeelo looked at his phone, seeing that his break was almost over. He was somewhat relieved, as he didn't want to listen to all of this grim talk. Even if he wasn't voicing it, he found himself worrying more and more.

"If a place like that was attacked, what's stopping them from finding Portside?" Zeelo asked.

"That's why we're keeping the lands under this fog." Gyatso replied. "Viviane used her mist breath back in the day to cover this countryside with fog. I would assist her by manipulating it with my wind. There's no questioning it since this entire region is known for its foggy atmosphere. Roark's tornado ability certainly helps cover more ground these days."

Avizandum laid down in front of them all, pouting once more. His voraciously hungry tummy was growling and no one would feed him. He exhaled, puffing out a small breath of cloudy vapor. This was missed by everyone except Zeelo.

Galahad tapped his finger against his own chin. "That's very smart of you. It should give us cover while Arthur is away. He informed me that he would be gone for a long period, and that he's gathering more warriors from headquarters. Even Galacta Knight is getting involved."

Zeelo's eyes widened, nearly dropping his phone! He held a tight grip, lest Avi run off with it again. He thought he'd never get it back.

"The Galacta Knight?! Holy crap!"

"Aye! Meta Knight and Sir Antwan, as well. He's gathering as many of his elites as he can." Galahad replied. "I have hope that with their help, the world can see victory on the horizon."

"I hope…" Luthais grumbled. "I feel bad that I'm not out there! We used to be among his elites."

Galahad's expression fell, sharing in that reminiscent memory.

"I know. You have since retired and Hawthorne is gone. And with Branwen caring for a cub and my condition, our time under the stars has passed. The only ones of our group who still actively work for Arthur are Victoria, Ciara, Onyx, and Sable."

Zeelo pocketed his phone, cutting into the conversation.

"Hey, uh… I'm sorry guys, but I have to get back to work. You guys enjoy the rest of your afternoon!"

"Take care, son! Tell Amani I said hello." Galahad answered.

Zeelo nodded before walking away. They waited until he was out of earshot that Luthais started to talk again.

"He's very bothered. Perhaps we should cease talking about these things around him?"

Galahad placed his hands in his pockets and fiddled with his pipe. "The boy is trying to focus on his teen life while the world falls apart around him… I suppose we should."

There was a large gust of wind that carried through the fog, blowing it around! From the haze, the large, darkened form of a dragon approached closer to the ground. With grace, Branwen landed in the grassy patch between the roads where the mural was. Shortly, Roark floated at her side and eased himself down until his paws were touching the grass.

Avizandum scurried to his paws while letting out a high pitched squeal of delight! He padded over to his parents while yipping and making small gator "pew"s. He practically slammed into Branwen and rubbed himself all over the side of her leg before giving his father the same treatment of love. Roark lowered his face down and nuzzled the small cub with a deep, resonating purr.

"You smell of sardines, love…" Branwen said while sniffing him. She glanced at Gyatso. "Before his lunch…"

There was a myriad of chuckles among the men. Avizandum smiled up at his mother, his tongue sticking out. He reached his paw up over her snout and licked her face lovingly, covering her nose with fishy kisses.

"I missed you, too, Avi." She purred. "I hope you were good for them."

Galahad replied, "Good as rain. He tried to get a taste of Zeelo's sandwich, but he didn't give in."

With a rolling laugh similar to distant thunder, Branwen responded.

"Very good. He might be cute, and he knows how to take advantage of it…" She purred while side-eyeing him.

Gyatso chewed on his pipe, though it was unlit. He pushed it to the side of his mouth, looking up to the great dragons as they lifted their heads.

"Anything to report? You both were gone on your morning hunt for a long time."

Branwen cooed, "Nothing worth noting. I renewed the fog with some fresh clouds. That's why we were gone for so long. From the mountain tops, it's very difficult to see the ground."

"Good, very good." Gyatso hummed. "I'm surprised you saw us here by the mural. Even with your keen eyes."

The dragoness purred softly, turning her yellow eyes to Galahad.

"Our connection has been clearing up these days. I followed Galahad's heart here."

"So that's how you did it." Gyatso said while crossing his wings.

Galahad leaned on Branwen's leg, using his cane to support himself.

"Our hearts are bonded. Special Draco stuff, innit?"

"Aye. After he was corrupted, we lost our connection for a long time. I can only surmise that my core is reacting to his again because I'm adjusting… I think…" Branwen said, sounding unsure. "I admit, I've felt… different lately."

With his hands on his hips, Luthais leaned on his leg and tilted his head to the side while staring at the both of them. His gem began to glow on his forehead, focusing his aura sensing.

"Something does seem different about you, Lady Branwen. Your soul is brighter than usual. Maybe it's because you've found some peace? Galahad energy is, though… Well…"

Galahad waved his hand. "Old news, I know." He scoffed. "But I've noticed Branwen's power shift. I also haven't been blind to her having more confidence in herself. Confidence is key to the power of the heart."

Roark raised his head up straight, wearing a proud smile!

"My mother used to say the same thing! She told me that as long as I have faith in my own ability, it will always serve me well!"

This caught the raven-sheened Draco's attention. "The High Queen used to tell me the same. I always had a hard time understanding what she meant. The light where all abilities begin starts from the heart. These days, I think I'm beginning to understand the knowledge she left me with. Hard to say if this has anything to do with it, though."

Avizandum ran up to the mural and looked up to the image of his father. He studied how fierce he looked, tilting his head and squinting at it. Leaning his paws on it, he got closer and imitated the snarl with lesser ferocity. He heard his father cackle, causing him to look back. Avizandum wiggled his tail!

"Are you big and scary?" Roark said in a fun tone!

Branwen leaned her head down and gave the cub her attention. "What is it, Cub? Is that your father? Is he big and strong?"

Avizandum got down on his paws again, standing up straight with his claws out and tail straight up! He wrinkled his nose, letting out a minimized version of his parents' growl! It sounded more like a large lizard-cat. He raised his head, sticking his chest out! It made the adults surrounding him laugh, as they found it more cute than intimidating. He wasn't aware of this, and found joy in hearing everyone laugh, regardless of why. Avi looked up at everyone, his tongue sticking out. His tummy started rumbling as the noise died down, distracting him once again from his current activity and reminding him that he was still hungry.

Galahad added after his laughter faded. "The boys and I were going to hit the pub, so Avizandum is all yours. Unless you need me still?"

Avizandum scurried between everyone and back to his parents. He was reaching his little paws up while leaning against his mother's leg. He was desperately failing to reach for her pouch and whined. She was so tall! Blast! Roark looked down at their son, smiling at him. Branwen hummed in a sing-songy tone before smiling.

"I think I've been away from him long enough. Besides..."

She lowered her head down to him, nudging him with care before crouching to lay on her belly. "Come on, Avi. It's time to eat."

Avizandum excitedly wiggled his tail and body like a little ferret before scurrying up her leg and shoulder and falling into her neck fur. He squeezed himself into her pouch and disappeared somewhere within, never being seen again.

Branwen stood up, looking down at everyone gratefully. "Thank you for keeping an eye on him. I'll come by again to check on all of you. Don't you get too wild now, you hear me, Gally?"

"Of course! I might be the life of the party, but I have my aching bones to tend to." Galahad mused teasingly.

Branwen and Roark turned around and started to walk away. The dark Draco unfurled her wings and made a mighty leap into the sky, disappearing into the haze with Roark. Galahad watched in awe, holding his hand over his brow. Their large forms disappeared once they were far enough.

"Well, off they go." Luthais commented. "Guess we should head out?"

"Aye, I'm hankering for a drink." Galahad finally lit his pipe. "I'm buying!"

Gyatso hummed to himself, following them across town. Galahad detected a look of thought in the albatross’ attitude. He nudged him. "You alright?"

"Hm… It 's been a long time since I've seen more than one dragon around here. It makes me feel reminiscent. I remember finding Viviane all those years ago while I was on a fishing voyage."

Luthais squeezed himself between Galahad and Gyatso, leaning in with a look of intrigue! "You never did tell us that story!"

Gyatso raised his eye from under the bill of his cap, revealing it from the shadow cast by it.

"It was a rainy night out at sea…" The old bird fiddled with his own pipe. "A shooting star had crashed into the ocean in a wake of glimmering light. When we fished it out, it was a blue sea serpent with an egg. She was not well, but I cared for her before letting her back into the ocean."

He gazed off into the fog, imagining that starry night when he and Viviane exchanged goodbyes. She gave him her sincerest thank yous, even if she was rather depressed. His concern had not waned, so he sailed after her until they stopped at Portside. She struggled to swim farther, eventually deciding to call those shores her home. The memory was still fresh in his mind, regardless of it having been so long ago.

"She became a dear friend of mine. When her son hatched, I vowed to keep her and her baby's presence a secret. Back then, the townspeople were more paranoid about sea monsters than they are these days." He said quietly. "Viviane and I became close friends, so she made me Roark's godfather. To the public, I was unfamiliar with them. However, my bond with them was far closer than most assumed."

"So that's why you lied to Branwen and I when Arthur sent us down here to investigate dragon sightings." Galahad laughed! "You could have trusted us, you know."

"Perhaps. But a promise is a promise, and that's something I value." Gyatso held his arms behind his back, walking with a form of sailor's dignity. "After Viviane died, I stayed for Roark. It does my heart well to see him finding happiness. Perhaps someday, more Dracos will flock to this world after this war is over?"

"Wouldn't that be a spectacular sight?" Galahad mused with a dreaming smile. "It would be much like it was when I was a child. If dragons return to this world, all would be right."

"With Avizandum here, there's no telling what else lies on the horizon." Luthais said with a hopeful grin while walking with his hands behind his head. "I would love to raise my future kids with Branwen's kin."

Galahad playfully nudged the Ethonian. "And when will that be?"

"Certainly not now!" Luthais said, leaning away from Galahad's teasing nudge. "You know how particular I am! The time isn't right."

"Oh, sure." The old man began. "I think you're afraid. Little tikes can be a handful."

"Come on, I can handle anything!" Luthais barked!

Galahad guffawed, placing his hand in his pocket as he walked across town with them. “I'm sure you can, boy! Don't come crying to me though when Garnet decides she's ready when you aren't.”

“Oh please, I'll be ready when she is.” Luthais said with an awkward chuckle.