It didn't take Viberian long to find Gravia, as she found him first. He had been just walking around the brick and stone hall, searching with growing worry for his daughter. Then, a blur moved from the shadows, causing a mild panic attack before a tiny figure latched itself to his chest. Heart still pounding, he embraced Gravia with his wings, smiling radiantly.
"Daddy can't breathe!" Vibrian pretended to be suffocating jokingly, moving to an open spot near where the wounded were. The other doctors were already tending, and a stern look from them told Viberian to get rest. Plus, his daughter needed him.
Gravia giggled lightly as Viberian rested against the lukewarm walls. She wasted no time curling next to him, and he just chuckled at how bright and optimistic she was despite everything. A hatchling's view is forever unmarked, apparently. That or she was just a special case. Her tail lightly thumping on the floor supported the latter theory.
"How are you feeling, Gravia?" Viberian asked with a tiny yawn as he inspected her for cuts. He found a tiny scratch, but it wasn't anything severe. The lack of pus indicated that it was not infected.
"I dunno." Gravia shrugged. "I ran think I got enough running for a while though. It was scary."
"That it was," Viberian gently scuffed her head, "I'm sure you were very brave, weren't you?"
Gravia nodded enthusiastically, to the point where Viberian feared her head would fly off the shoulders and strike the ceiling. "Uh huh! I stayed with the others, like you said, and then that nice shadow dragon allowed me to ride on her back."
"Nice shadow dragon?" Viberian blinked, trying to think of any shadow dragons in the group. He couldn't think of any off the top of his head, and grew suspicious. "Tomorrow, do you think you can show me her?"
"Mhm!" Gravia didn't see his darkened expression. "How many Nec...N...Necromorphicalizals did you kill?" Gravia asked. Viberian had to blink; for having such problems with 'Necrolite', she sure had no problems sprouting that word.
"I don't know," Viberian removed the dark expression before she noticed, "I was too busy fighting to keep you safe to count."
Gravia hugged him across the chest again, curling closer. "What about Cynder? Did she count?"
He chuckled warmly. "You'd have to ask her when we see her next."
"Okie!" She then looked at his satchel. "Can you continue reading me that story? Please?"
"Oh alright, since you said please..." Viberian teased as he reached into the satchel, pulling out a book titled The Vision and opening it up to chapter thirteen, where they had left off a few days ago. The cover had gleaming, golden eyes that belonged to a black dragon.
"The sun had risen brightly, and before the trio realized, they had traveled miles from their homes without any food." Viberian read quietly as he stretched out on his stomach, holding the book so he and Gravia could both see. Wrapping a warm protective wing around her, he finally began to feel comfortable.
The icy clouds of winter looked to be terrible this season. Despite the beauty they bore, they also spilled chilled death to those in a position like them. The first sprinkles of snow began to fall, and the dragons found themselves huddling in a cave. One breathed fire into the small, dry sticks that they could gather, generating a tiny flame to keep them warm.
Shadows loomed throughout the cave, and the trio got the sense they weren't alone in them. Yet, there was no one here. Every corner was scrutinized under their wary eyes. Their stomachs growled with hunger, and a male dragon roasted two rabbits over the flame. It was slow, but it was cooking. The scent of the meat made their bellies whine.
"You think you can make that fire brighter, Davis?" A midnight black female dragon requested. "I'm...I'm gonna need it if what I plan to do is gonna work."
"Not without burning up all the sticks, Palka." Davis replied, shivering in his blue scales. "It's surprising to even find this many dry."
Palka nodded sadly, turning to the final member, a brilliant gold scaled female dragon. "Sorina, do you think you can watch for any Pack members?"
"Already on that." Sorina's eyes narrowed at the woods, scrutinizing every detail she could.
"Alright...I'll give it a shot then..." Palka shut her eyes, hovering her claws over the fire and concentrating. She didn't know how she did it, but she managed to relax her breathing, absorbing the heat from the open flame into her body.
Then, before she knew it, Palka was in a different area. Shadows loomed all around her, snaking around her legs and neck, threatening to clamp down at the slightest twitch. She stood like a statue, letting the scene before her unfold.
At first, she did not understand what it was. Then, like a splurge of colors on a painting, the environment crafted itself. An old, fragile bridge crafted itself before her, hanging on what seemed like a thread. It connected two land masses together, with a raging whirlpool underneath it. The winds howled dangerously, preventing any flight.
Then, in the thick snow, Palka saw the three of them standing before the bridge. She couldn't hear what was going on, but Davis and Sorina were locked in an argument, with Palka trying to calm them down. From the gestures, it was clear that they were arguing about crossing the bridge. Eventually, Palka succeeded in separating the two, but they still shot glowering snarls at each other.
After talking for a bit...
"...the trio decided to cross the bridge, one after the other, into the new world that awaited them." Viberian went to turn to the next page, but a quick look at Gravia instead brought a glowing smile to his face. There, she rested against his side, curled up in peaceful sleep. Viberian had to admit; he was disappointed she fell asleep so soon. He was just getting into it.
"What next?" A female voice asked nearby. Viberian glanced up to see Cynder staring down at him, eyes glinting with genuine interest.
"I have no idea," Viberian closed the book, "Far as I got. Been reading it together with her for a while now." He gave Gravia a loving nuzzle. "Too bad she always falls asleep at the best parts, so I have to wait."
Cynder tsked with amusement, laying down opposite Viberian. "I suppose I should apologize." She said after a moment.
"For?" Viberian acted coy.
Cynder caught onto his act, but didn't point it out. He could see it in her face. "Maybe there was another way to do that." She said. "Maybe there was a way I could have bolstered their morale by flying along them or something. Too late now, but I did some thinking. I don't regret my actions, but I do regret not thinking it all the way through." She ended with a sigh.
Viberian remained quiet for a moment before answering. "I understand your motives, I do." Viberian chose his words slowly. "However, the execution, I agree, could have been handled better. I know what it's like to react out of impulse and you deem is right, but in stressful situations..."
"You don't always think clearly, yes," Cynder finished his sentence with a nod, "Glad that we are at an understanding over motives at least."
"That was never the concern," Viberian said softly, "We're just...afraid."
"Of?"
"A repeat." Viberian shut his eyes and fidgeted his tail. "Cynder, I don't have all of the answers, but what you did...it scared us. Or, at least, me. You attacked the survivors, and we have a few wounded from it."
Viberian indicated to the wounded a bit further up. Some didn't appear to have physical ailments, but were curled into petrified balls. "Some of them have PTSD, and some of them have other conditions that make them especially susceptible to extreme emotion. One had a heart attack and had to be carried up through the gate."
Cynder looked away, face written with guilt. The realization of her actions appear to dawn on her. He offered a kind smile. "You did well, though." He added gently. "One way or another, we would have needed that push. Just...don't use that again. I don't need to beat it into you anymore." Viberian finished when he saw Cynder in distress.
She tried to smile back at him, but he knew that it would be a bit until she recovered. "I'm...I'm going for a walk." She stated as she got up, heading deeper into the darkness. Viberian, fearful at what she would do yet unable to leave Gravia alone, scooped his daughter up and rushed off to grab the one Guardian he could trust not to sound condescending.
Cynder brushed past Cyril, who was traversing the path and calling out names, checking them off in a notebook if they responded. She didn't even give him a passing glance, avoiding his icy glance. She could tell that he was about to say something, but she sped up before he could, reaching the last of the camp and into the welcoming darkness.
Although the torches still illuminated the wall, they could not fight the darkness that dwelt. Cynder preferred it this way. Eventually, she felt tears streaming down her face and she could go no further, sinking against the wall with a guttural cry of failure. Gripping horns so her head would hover over her chest, she wrapped her tail around her body and folded her wings as if hiding. Then, she let the tears flow like the chasm in Warfang.
How...how could she have been that stupid? She had been so desperate to save them that she neglected to consider them! Even if the ends justified the means, she could have potentially gotten them killed! Viberian may have lost his daughter, Terrador may have been slaughtered, and even Volteer may have perished this day. It was pure luck that they did not! Hell, she would have even mourned Cyril if he had died at her claw, however indirectly.
There would be a vote. There had to be a vote. One that would say that she had to leave. Now she understood how the Guardians took her threat seemingly well. They planned to get rid of her the moment they hit Avalar. She's spare them the time; she'd go now and discover answers on her own. Maybe then she wouldn't put countless lives in jeopardy. She would make the decision for them.
It would be a lonely decision, though... The tiny voice from before spoke in her head.
"They don't need me..." Cynder snapped at the air, voice ridden with hiccupping sobs. "They will never need me...never...not like this..."
"May I input my own thoughts as well?" Terrador's voice spoke from outside of her shell.
"No." Cynder shook her head firmly. "I already know what you are going to say."
"Well, what do you think I am going to say?" Terrador's shadow loomed over her, indicating he was standing directly before her.
"You want me to go." Cynder snarled defensively. "You all want me to go. I'll go. I'll never cause any more pain in your lives. I'm not who I was supposed to be...this...this...Paragon!" She screamed hatefully.
A sigh from the earth dragon followed by muttering under the breath could be heard. "Cynder...no. That is not what we want you to do." Terrador sat down before her, his gruff voice trying to be as soft as possible. It was almost amusing. "I'm sure Viberian already told you our opinion on the situation, did he not?"
"Let me guess, he sent you?" Cynder's teary eyes narrowed. "Try to make me feel better, is that it?"
"Yes...and no." Terrador replied. "He did find me, yes, but I'm here because I do care for you, Cynder. You may not believe it, but I do."
"You're right there..." Cynder grumbled into her wing. "Fine, let's say I believe you; what are you going to do? Tell me to come back? Well, unless you give me a valid reason, I will not. I won't stay where I am not welcome."
"Cynder, can you open your wings?" Terrador politely requested. She shook her head. "Listen...it's the only way I can show you that I speak the truth. You do not believe my words, this I know, but I want you to search me for any deceit."
Cynder's cries went silent for a moment, but the tears kept streaming down her muzzle. She couldn't stop even if she wanted to. She wasn't just crying for the sake of what she did, she realized, but for everything. Her memory. Her lack of identity. Her everything. Seeing no alternate choice, she released her head, parting her wings slightly to look at the older dragon.
Scanning every inch of his body, she found nothing but reinforcement to his words. His sincere, scarred muzzle cast down on her with worry. His club-like tail was scrapping the walls with anxiety, and his wings were folded closer to his body than before. A welcoming smile slowly crawled along his features, his eyes lighting up at her actions.
"I...I believe you," Cynder finally passed her judgment, "I just..." Cynder choked up before she could finish.
Terrador lifted her muzzle like a father would a hatchling, staring her right in the eyes. "Cynder, everyone makes mistakes." He told her gently. "This is the first one in your recent mind, and so it hits you the strongest. It is a fairly major action that you did, but I'm not here to make you feel worse. I am just here to tell you to persevere; we still need you."
"I know..." Cynder turned her gaze to his claw, eyes shutting to shut down the well of tears. Then, she looked at him desperately. "I know I have to wait until Avalar, but...give me some sort of identity...I don't know who I am. I don't even really know where I am..."
Terrador's eyes glazed in thought before focusing back on Cynder. "Cynder...you had a will of iron, and the demeanor to cause even the strongest of dragons to hesitate." Terrador chuckled at what she assumed was a memory. "Yet, you didn't let anything get you down. Despite certain...events..." Cynder noted the vagueness, "You kept strong and it inspired many, many others."
"I...I see..." Cynder fell to silence, processing the information. Then, she chuckled weakly. "You're terrible at using non-clichés, you know that, right?"
"I...yes." Terrador's face lit up with a sheepish grin. "When you live with Volteer for twenty years, it rubs off on you." Then, he tilted his head with optimistic curiosity. "Question is, did it work?"
"Barely." Cynder let a hopeful smile creep to her face.
Cynder allowed Terrador to assist her to her claws, feeling a sense of...companionship? Friendship? Maybe even trust? She couldn't describe it, but it felt...pleasant. It was the same feeling she got around Viberian. Maybe once she got answers about herself she would understand this feeling more. For now, she allowed it to carry through her bones, lifting her spirits like kite on a warm, summer day.
Unbeknownst to the two of them, they were being watched. A shadow moved in the darkness, and out of the shadows stepped an obscure dragon. The slim build suggested female, and her dark scales absorbed the light from the torches. She stared after them with no visible eyes, her muzzle contorted with grave concern.
"Cynder, Cynder...what happened to you...?" She mused with snowy softness before melding back into the icy blackness.
The morning came faster than Cynder expected. One minute, she was walking back with Terrador, blacking out when she reached her spot. The next, she was being awoken by Gravia, who was pushing on her shoulder with her tiny claws. Opening a tired eye, she saw Viberian stifling a laugh.
Shaking her head to remove the grogginess, Cynder got to her claws and let out a cat-like stretch, finding it hard to see. Then, she realized that she must have cried unconsciously in her sleep. She couldn't even remember the dream, but it must have been vivid. All she knew, though, was that there was a vacant hole in her chest, like something was sorely missing.
"You alright?" Viberian seemed to read her expression.
"I'll manage." Cynder flashed a quick smile as the feeling faded. Then, she glanced at the door, seeing Volteer and Cyril chatting before it. Not a scratch nor crack appeared on the door. "How did the door stay up?"
"Oh, Volteer used the same magic from before on the door." Viberian indicated to the runes on the door. "Necrolites can't pass that without burning up. Only, say, a Vampire or a Lich could get past that, but it'd cause excruciating pain."
"Huh...so that's Light Magic basically?" Cynder stared at the brilliant shimmers the rune gave off. They would change sometimes to a blue, yellow, or even green tinge after a few seconds.
"More or less." Viberian slung his satchels around his neck. Gravia tried to jump up on his back, flapping her wings furiously, but did not have the strength for proper flight. Viberian lifted a still flapping Gravia on his back, where she slowed to a stop.
"You'll have to ask Volteer about it; he'll gladly spend all day lecturing about it." Viberian suddenly groaned as he started towards the front.
"Hmm?" Cynder responded to his groan.
"Just having flashbacks of being under his wing," Viberian chuckled, "He used to be the history and magic professor at Warfang Temple, and I think two thirds of the class failed because no one understood him."
Cynder snickered. "I can imagine just by seeing him now."
"You don't even know the half of it..." Viberian shook his head as Gravia patted his head. He glanced back at her, unable to stop the spirited smile. "Believe it or not, he used to be ten times more eccentric."
Cynder made a horrified expression. "...That...no." She said with a stunned laugh. "After that outburst with the crystals..."
"Daily, if not hourly."
"OH MY GOD!"
Viberian howled at Cynder's mortified expression, drawing attention to the two of them. Cynder's jaw dropped, imagining just turning the corner and watching Volteer hop around speaking faster than the speed of sound. How could anyone's brain not explode from listening to him?
The rest of the walk was silent, unable to top Cynder's reaction. The refugees didn't seem quite comfortable around her, but some looked like they didn't believe her actions. Repressing last night, Cynder powered on ahead, scouting for any signs of Necrolites or other trouble.
She stayed within eyeshot of the refugees, and was both surprised and apprehensive when she saw that Cyril would be joining her. She didn't quite make it clear, having no desire for conflict, but tensed at his presence. Cyril's critical eye narrowed at her reaction, and for a moment, she thought he was going to say something, but he did not.
The two of them found nothing but the endless corridor. Cynder saw hints of sealed passages, which she suspected were used to mine this tunnel, but little else. The air was warm and stuffy, even with the icicle next to her. He looked very...pale the deeper they went, towards the center of the mountain. If it was hard for Cynder to breathe, there was no telling how hard it would be for the ice dragon. He looked very woozy on his claws, and his eyes were slightly dilated.
"Do you need to rest?" Cynder asked after a moment of watching his actions.
"Once I get out of this...blasted mountain...I'll be fantastic." Cyril shook his head.
"If you say so." Cynder shrugged.
"My family would have..." Cyril sprouted off color, going off on a half slurred ramble about how his family would have rather flown than walked. "The moles could have at least put some color into this place. Brick red with more maroon stones? Pah!"
"I hardly think that they had fashion in mind when making this," Cynder's expression turned sour, "Wait, did you say that moles did this...for us?"
Cyril raised an icy eyeridge. "Well, of course! They even built our shining city as a thank you!"
Cynder twitched her maw skeptically. "Somehow I don't think that was all..."
"No, I can assure you it is the truth!" Cyril puffed out his chest and began to tell the story. "You see, the moles were a very oppressed race. Apes and other species would force them into servitude, forcing them to build structures and the like for years! The moles had no problems building, of course, as that was part of their species. However, as their unforgiving masters began to double their work, they began to die from exhaustion. Their race was in jeopardy!"
Cyril coughed before he continued. "The dragons were nomads at this time; a crisis of our own had emerged, and we were forced to leave our homes. Much like today, actually..." Cyril's features grew softer as he glanced back at the refugees. "We saw their race being mercilessly sold and traded as well as other horrible, unspeakable acts. We would not allow this depravity to stand! So, we leapt into the fray and began to liberate the camps."
"My ancestor, Dante, was involved in the liberation," He added proudly, "It was a long, grueling campaign and we made powerful enemies, but also great allies. The felines we are going to see being one, and the moles themselves another. We never asked for them to build the city, they told us that they were going to do it. Just like that, Warfang was built."
Cynder examined him for any lies or holes, but found nothing that gave him away. "So, what happened to the moles now?" She inquired, her curiosity piqued.
Cyril turned downcast, eyes striking the ground. "I...do not know." He answered with a touch of regret. "They retreated underground, and we promised to send reinforcements when Necrolites invaded. When we arrived, they had either gone or...well, Necrolites swarmed the place. It was impossible to breach far into their homes." He finished quietly.
Cynder grasped the implication immediately, returning to the task at claw.
Volteer watched the duo excitedly, afraid that Cynder may have reacted too intensely for Cyril's frigid tone. Yet, despite some subtle hostility from Cynder, he was pleased to note that she listened to one of Cyril's many speeches. Although he couldn't quite tell what the story was, the way Cyril flapped his gums told Volteer immediately it was about his ancestors.
With a quiet chuckle, he kept one eye on the book in his claw, studying the spells inside. He had read the light magic section a dozen times, and yet it still fascinated him. The original creator must have been a purple dragon; no one else could have called superheated UV rays down. Either that or it was a powerful Plasma dragon. Regardless of the creator, the notes they left were most informative and interesting! Perhaps he should write a book or several about his own studies.
Volteer stared off in thought, mind racing a mile a second. What would he ever write about? Perhaps the crystal growth and how to make them more effective. Maybe he should try mixing the roots to see what gems are produced. How odd was that? Crystals that could be planted? There must be more research on this! That was it, he would write a book on that once Malefor was sealed away once more. What would he title it, though? Oooh, there were so many possibilities!
Flipping through the book one more, he noted a brief description of spirit creatures and other worlds. It wasn't much to go on, as no one had the means to investigate, but it frazzled his brain to see a lack of information. He wouldn't mind having a tiny spirit creature following him about; perhaps the creature was intelligent, or had some sort of comprehension? So many delightful outcomes! Depending on the appearance, he may name it Spirit, or Sparky! Something with an S.
Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Viberian reading a book with Gravia trying to follow along on his head. Her face was one of puzzlement, but Viberian seemed to understand it. A Beginner's Guide to Taming the Elements: Conjuration, binding, and working with Elementals was the title of the book. He wasn't far in it, but he looked positively entranced by the material. Volteer himself drew an interest to the title.
"Interested in the Elementals, are we Viberian?" Volteer slowed to his pace. Viberian jumped in shock, causing Gravia to giggle at the sudden movement.
With a hint of embarrassment, Viberian answered. "Yeah, always had one," He flipped a page, "Never had the chance to study them given my chosen profession, but I figured now would be the best time."
"Oh yes, with your newfound Guardianhood, you may have a better time controlling the spirits!" Volteer agreed vigorously before noting that Gravia had her jaw dropped. "What is it, dear?" He asked with a tilt of his head.
"You're a Guardian?" Gravia stared blankly at her father before lightly slapping the back of his head repeatedly. "Why didn't you tell me?" She whined as she continued her 'attacks'.
"It uh...must have slipped my mind..." Viberian chuckled weakly.
"How does being a Guardian slip your mind?" Gravia finally stopped. "I'm mad at you." She stated with a hot puff.
"Like mother, like daughter..." Viberian grinned sheepishly to Volteer. "Daddy's sorry for not telling you, alright?" Gravia didn't respond to it. Volteer watched the scene unfold with utter amusement. "I'll give you a vine of grapes when we next see them to top it off." He added sweetly.
"Okie!" Gravia suddenly whirled around and took her place again between his horns. Viberian winked at Volteer.
"Anyway," Viberian continued to speak, "I wasn't sure what kind of abilities I had now that I am a Guardian, so I decided to pursue this and see how it goes."
"Most excellent!" Volteer exclaimed as two young males leaped in surprise. "I would like to study with you! I did not have the hours to study, but now I am very eager!"
Viberian seemed to pale at his offer. "I...uh..."
"I'm glad you agree!" Volteer spoke swiftly and energetically. "Once we get comfortable in Avalar, our lessons shall begin! Just like old times, star pupil!" He called back as he bounced ahead, bounding with energy he had not felt in some time.
The hours passed slowly for Cynder, who had now remained at point alone. Cyril had suffered dehydration from the energy he exerted, and had to go back to refresh himself. Cynder wasn't particularly bothered, almost feeling a tad relieved now that the Ice Guardian was gone. Although she was at first afraid to be alone with her thoughts, the shadows that blanketed her last night kept her company. They seemed just like an old friend who had eagerly awaited her return.
She estimated by the air pressure that they were getting closer to the other side. The air filtered better, and her breathing wasn't as labored anymore. Yet, her eyes were raw and watery from both last night and scrutinizing every inch of the path. She needed a break and she knew it, but she couldn't pull herself away from her duty. Not like she was welcome back there, anyway.
A trick of the blackness caught her eye. Like, someone was moving way up ahead, trying their best not to be detected. Cynder's eyes followed the shadows, but couldn't detect the source. Whatever it was, it wasn't hostile. If it was, then Cynder would have been dead. It was like someone or something was purposely keeping their distance, but the reason remained ambiguous. She swore that the shape was draconic, but it was so silent and obscure that it couldn't have been. Maybe she was just getting tired.
Suddenly, the straight path took a ramp upwards. It was a smooth transition, but her legs felt like jelly by the end of it. She couldn't imagine some of the weaker refugees climbing up without difficulty. Glancing down in curiosity, she saw that they indeed had issues. Of course, Viberian and Volteer, both reading while keeping one eye on track, were fine, but Cyril had to be supported by Terrador. She took pity on the ice dragon before moving on.
What seemed like an eternity later, Cynder swore she saw a door. Sure enough, when they approached, Cynder saw a great, steel gate much like the other side. Cynder felt a sudden burst of strength and she whistled down to Viberian and Volteer, who perked up and stared at the door. Volteer looked like he was ready to do a tap dance in glee.
Burning the mental image out of her head, Cynder approached the door and waited for both Guardians to approach. Glancing between each other, they nodded and slowly creaked the door open. Rock sediment along with dust fell, but it was instantly ignored due to the sights before her. She couldn't help but sit and gawk.
They weren't kidding when they said that Avalar was unaffected. The lush, magic-like environment struck her eyes with its beauty. The trees swayed gently in the soft breeze, and the water reflected the moon almost perfectly. Cynder had to double take at the moon; it was ginormous! It looked like it could swallow her hole and never realize it did!
She saw a great, big wolf staring at her from a cave over a waterfall. It stared for a moment before departing with pups on her heels. Butterflies were chased by dragonflies, the latter of which stopping to stare at the dragons with mild interest before resuming pursuit. A massive rock creature with moss growing on its back walked into the lush forest before her, the ground quaking under every step.
Entranced, Cynder walked out and took in the sweet scent of flowers and other plants. The cliff she stood upon had long, thick vines that looked like they could be climbed down, and judging from the fraying on some, they were well used. Someone or something with sharp talons, from the looks.
Viberian and Volteer walked up next to her, grinning like idiots at her stunned face. She felt a blush rising but didn't try to stop it; this place was far too beautiful to hide her awe. She honestly wanted to stay here forever. How the Necrolites didn't invade here she had no idea, but she supposed she'd find that out soon enough. She was too at peace to think of that now, though.
Volteer went back, muttering something about the refugees, leaving Cynder with Viberian and a sleeping Gravia to take in the sights for a while longer. Both turned to each other and laughed nervously. They had made it. They had survived the Necrolites...
A blindfolded dragon stared down at Cynder and Viberian with interest crossing her shimmering blue-black scales. Clicking her tongue inside her maw, she sent out a tiny burst of sound, which created a picture of the scene before her in black and white. She could see the outlines of the two dragons, and the sounds that made the others made created a constantly moving picture. It wasn't perfect, but to her, it was all she needed.
The cliff she stood on was above theirs, just barely out of sight and in a position where they would have to look in order to find her. She could hear every word that was larger than a whisper, and as such, Volteer's voice sounded like he was within five yards of her. She couldn't help but giggle at the goofy electric dragon, but she quickly stopped, casting a mournful muzzle towards Cynder. From what she had heard, the poor hero had lost her memory, and it likely included her as well.
Yet, she couldn't exactly walk up and ask her now. No, she had to wait until Cynder was alone. The less she was seen, the better. Spreading her runed, icy wings, the young female took to the skies, flying high above the others and watching them closely. Adjusting the frequency of her Echolocation with her tongue, she waited for her opportunity to arise.
SNAP!
The deer bolted from its hiding spot and over the thick roots of nearby trees. The deer was fast and nimble, but could not stay ahead of the looming shadow above it. Like a creeping phantom of the night, a winged figure chased after it, crimson wings blotting out the moon. Cynder's gaze was locked, and neither tree nor brush would stop deter her.
Cynder licked her lips in anticipation, her maw salivating at the thought of the cooked meat. A hungry grin stretched her maw, and her eyes started to glow a silver-grey color as she gulped in a large quantity of air. Spiraling low, she came up behind the deer and released the blast, knocking it off its hooves. It smashed into a rock with devastating speed, snapping the spine and neck from whiplash. Landing before it, Cynder gripped the warm body with her powerful, sharp fangs.
"I hope you know that attack scared mine away." Viberian scowled from behind her, two rabbits slung around his neck.
Cynder faced him with the deer hanging from her maw. "Be fathsther nexthest thime."
"Your speech is elegant, as always." Viberian's scowl turned into a sarcastic smile.
"Thhu pffinalthly Nothiusst." Cynder let out a muffled laugh as she took flight once more.
There, she could see the fires that signaled the camps. Crude tents formed around the river, where survivors either drank or, further downstream, bathed. There was an overwhelming sense of joy through the encampment, as just about everyone was chipper and jolly. Those who did not have tents lay under the trees, or in the small caves by the waterfall.
As Cynder landed with Viberian, she even noted that the camp had warmed up to her again. Two elderly dragons, locked in conversation about the last time they were here, raised their pints to her. Warm relief flooded her system, and she felt like maybe not everyone hated her. The sensation was still very foreign, though. Giving them a nod in acknowledgement, she had to stop short when a group of hatchlings, Gravia included, ran past in a game of some sorts. The young electric dragon in the front had a ball, and the others looked like they were trying to steal it back.
Shaking her head, Cynder brought the deer to an unoccupied spit, and watched as Viberian impaled it over the fire after skinning it. Gruesome as it may be, she needed to see how he did it for future reference.
"Can you show me how to do that?" Cynder asked through her repulsion.
"Certainly." Viberian nodded.
For the next thirty minutes, Viberian taught her how to skin and prepare the rabbit for consumption. It was a horrible task, and she felt like a Necrolite stripping the meat off of their prey, but it was rather easy once she got the hang of it. The squiggly muscle in her claws made her stomach churn, but the hatchlings from earlier momentarily stopped their game to stare hungrily at the rabbit. Casting them a quick smile, she felt the resolve to complete the task, doing the second rabbit on her own.
"Now, you just gotta turn it slowly every so often." Viberian took her claw and showed her the right pace to go at. Then, he snickered. "Why do you still have the tarp on?"
"I...uh...forgot about it." Cynder felt red flushing to her cheeks, removing the bloody blue parchment. Viberan examined it before nodding.
"Just don't forget to wash it off." Viberian told her as he went back to cooking. "In fact, you may want to do it now before you eat."
"Wouldn't anything I had already be on the meat then?" Cynder paled at the thought.
"No, the one thing the infection cannot stand is intense heat." Viberian explained as he continued to read that book from before. "Fire can kill it, but unfortunately, our bodies cannot take that kind of temperature. Not even Fire Guardians." Viberian mused distantly at the comment.
"Alright, be right back then."
Cynder got off of her haunches and went a bit downstream, dipping her claw in the water and scrubbing with a smooth rock. The blood on the scales was difficult to remove, but she thought she did a halfway decent job. It was kind of marvelous to see the how smooth the rock made her scales, and-.
Suddenly, she felt two pairs of claws on her rump, and she fell head first into the water. It was just deep enough for her not to strike her head on the bottom, but oooh she was going to kill whoever did it, even if the water was refreshing. Kicking off the bottom, she splashed up like an aquatic beast, only to be greeted with the sounds of uproarious laughter from Volteer, Viberian, and Gravia. She quickly found the real culprits to be the Flame Guardian and his daughter from how hard they laughed, and she splashed them with her wings.
"That was amazing." Viberian skittered away from the water. "How did you not notice us?"
Cynder stuck out her tongue like a hatchling, which only made them fall into fits of giggles. "I hope you realize you made a dangerous enemy." She threated with a gleam in her eye, a wide grin on her face.
"Why, you're all clean now!" Gravia pointed out. "We helped you!"
"Don't think I forgot about you..." Cynder grinned in mock threat. She squeaked and by her dad's claw, tail wagging playfully. Then she turned to Volteer, who looked like he was trying to back away. "Oh no, you're an accomplice. You don't get off the hook."
"Ack." Was all Volteer could manage out before clearing his throat. "Anyway, Cynder, I am here to inform you that we intend to make due on our promise. We have a tent for privacy, and once Cyril returns from scouting, we will begin." Volteer spread his wing to point to the shabby tent in the center of the camp. A dull, yellow light emanated from it.
Cynder pulled herself out of the water, shaking herself dry and grinning when she got all three of them wet. The trio spread their wings, Gravia nestled in her father's horns again, and made their way to the tent. Poking her head through the thin, brown tarp, Cynder saw that Terrador awaited inside, studying a map of Avalar on a desk. She couldn't help but note that various 'X' marks decorated the map, the most recent being Warfang.
Terrador gave them a curt nod before running a claw along the map, following the river to where a purple marking ended it. If she had to guess, Cynder would say that was the Cheetah village where this...Hunter and Prowlus resided. The names sounded very familiar, but she couldn't exactly figure out why. Maybe she'd ask.
Cynder couldn't help but note that there were five rolls on the mat, and only four Guardians. She had suspected that they were going to sleep here, but why the fifth? Was Gravia getting a separate one? She was actually surprised to see that she was even joining them in the meeting; she kind of assumed that non guardians weren't allowed in here. Then, she saw the reason; Gravia had fallen asleep.
Before she could think further, Cyril stepped in and greeted them all.
"No signs of Necrolites anywhere," Cyril reported, "The enchantments seem to be holding well. I thought I spied a Grublin or two, but my search yielded no results."
"Prowlus is putting his all into making this place habitable again," Terrador commented distantly before focusing on Cynder, "Now, I am sure Volteer has already explained the reason for this meeting, yes?"
"He did." Cynder confirmed.
"Good, good," Terrador let out a deep sigh, "I'm not entirely sure how you will respond, so the more dangerous ones you ask we may not answer. When you regain more of your memory, I will happily explain. Does that sound fair?"
Cynder frowned but understood the reasoning. "Very well." Cynder went quiet for a moment before collecting her thoughts. "You gave me identity, but I want to know my backstory. How do I 'know' all of you?"
Judging from the reactions, she evidently asked one of the dangerous ones. It was like someone sucked out all the warmth in the room, leaving a chill that could hit the bone. They didn't even answer right away, shooting each other silent looks before Volteer elected to answer.
"That...is a dreadfully long and...difficult story." Volteer said slowly. "We did not meet under the most pleasant of circumstances. Opposite sides, if you will. I cannot go into much more detail for obvious reasons."
Cynder rolled her eyes. Just as she predicted. "Alright fine. Tell me this, then; Why can I control non-elements as if they are one? You mentioned I had one true element, and the other three were different. What are the last two?"
Cyril stepped forward this time. "The three powers ties into the background Volteer mentioned. I think I can explain the reasons without distressing you, though." Cyril cleared his throat. Cynder mentally prepared herself for a speech. "When you were younger, you were exposed to a dark energy known as Convexity. The energy is still a mystery, even to us, but it granted you special abilities and acts much like a seductive drug. Dark, yet useful, abilities I may add." Volteer and Terrador shot him a glowering stare. "As you know, you obtained the Fear ability, but you also had control over Poison and the darkness that raged through your body allowed you to manipulate shadows."
The information was a bit much, and her mind was set ablaze with thought. She recognized the names instantly, and the term Convexity send vibrations to her core. The Guardians noticed her reaction, but she waved them off.
"I'll be fine..." Cynder grunted through gritted fangs. "Just...processing." She continued with a shake of her head. "So, I was seduced by this...Convexity?"
"Yes, and we cannot answer more." Terrador replied firmly.
"Fine, skipping past that, you mentioned me being a hero and a Paragon." Cynder's gaze darted between Viberian and Terrador. "List me some accomplishments."
"Oh, that's easy." Viberian let out a subtle sigh of relief. "First, answer me this; do you remember someone by the name of Spyro? Forgot if I asked."
Cynder remained thoughtful for a moment, searching the deepest memories of her mind. The name certainly rang a bell, and the name brought both great pain and overwhelming joy. "The name brings both pleasant and despairing emotions, but no, I do not know the name. It does sound familiar, though..."
Viberian nodded. "Well, Spyro was a purple dragon; he could wield four elements and was a champion of our kind," Viberian moved his claws as he spoke, "You and he stood up against the tyrannical Dark Master, and made Avalar habitable again. You also successfully freed the Cheetah village, and fought waves upon waves of enemies on the Dark Master's front door. If it hadn't been for you, Spyro would have never succeeded in defeating The Dark Master."
The Dark Master...why did that name sound so familiar? It sent a twinge of rage through her system, but she found it easy to filter. Then, she felt her resistance crack. "So I was basically a side-kick." Cynder replied to the description.
"Partner would be a better term." Volteer seemed displeased at her term.
"Same difference," Cynder scowled, "So I've been living in the shadow of this Spyro my entire life? Oh that sounds positively fantastic."
"Cynder, that's not what we-."
"Oh no, that's exactly what it sounds like." Cynder snorted in both anger and disgust. "You build me up like this and then I find out that someone else did all the work and I merely assisted. Tell me, how would you feel in my position? Am I just a Paragon because he went away or whatever the reason was? Am I just the back-up? Sure as fuck sounds like it!"
Cynder turned right around and began to march out of the tent. "Don't follow me. I need to be alone," She paused, "Do me a favor; never, ever mention Spyro around me. I think I may just claw the face off of the idiot brave enough."
With that final note, Cynder departed, leaving the cries of outburst behind, unaware that a tiny burst of dark energy dispersed into the air from her body.
"Well that was perfect," Cyril glared down at Viberian, who had turned whiter than a sheet at Cynder's reply, "Excellent job describing her roles, I might add. Way to make her feel-."
"CYRIL THAT IS ENOUGH!" Terrador roared at the Ice guardian, cutting off any further comments. "Viberian did not know how she would react. Granted, perhaps Volteer or myself should have answered, but he did not say or do anything wrong."
"What do we do now, though?" Volteer's cheery attitude fell in the blink of an eye. "You heard her. How can we ever hope that she regains her memories if this is how she feels of her mate? Even if she changes her mind, imagine the guilt she will have if she hates him for so long and then suddenly remembers him."
"She will have to forgive herself, then," Cyril said icily, "We will do nothing to hinder her memories. If she has question, we will answer accordingly. If she chooses to hate Spyro, then we cannot change her mind," Cyril peered at his fellow Guardians critically, "Or do you intend on damaging her further by telling her the relationship?"
Cyril peered at his companions. Viberian remained chalk-colored and didn't say anything, whereas Volteer and Terrador looked conflicted. Cyril had to admit; he felt the same. The young, quick tempered dragon had remained the same in that regard, and he could only hope that the durations of these bouts was significantly shorter. Glancing back at Viberian, perhaps he had been too harsh on the young Guardian. He hadn't been one for more than a day and not even Cyril had this much pressure on him when he first started.
"I don't like it, but Cyril is correct," Terrador placed a muscular claw on the table and leaned on it for a moment, "We can't risk any more damage. If she is to sprout about Spyro, we have no choice but to entertain her. One of us may have to watch her to make certain no one else mentions him."
"I-I'll do it." Viberian stammered. "She and I get along fairly well."
"Alright," Terrador gave a grateful nod before turning to Volteer, "You need to reread that book if you have it and see if there is any mention of side effects or the like. Anything you find, anything at all, report to either myself or Cyril."
"Yes, yes of course." Volteer formed a quick smile as he and Viberian departed. "I need you to assist me with setting up the rest of the barriers, first." Cyril heard Volteer say.
Just as Cyril was about to leave, Terrador stopped him. The Ice Guardian braced himself; he was about to get his head bitten off for the billionth time.
"Cyril, I understand that you are as frustrated as us all," Terrador said with surprising calm and sympathy, "Yet do not take it out on Viberian. He's already been through enough, and he doesn't need to be discouraged by your sharpness after one day of Guardianhood. You voted for him as well, lest you forget."
Cyril twitched his maw, remembering the year before. That...was an experience no one should have to repeat. "You are correct," He let out a defeated sigh, "Today has been stressful on us, and I'm still not over the pressure in the tunnel." Cyril spat with a ruffle of his wings. "Young Viberian has much to learn and perhaps we have...too much expectation on him." Cyril grudgingly admitted.
"Agreed," Terrador echoed his sentiments, "He has a large hole to fill, so let him get comfortable before we start scrutinizing him." Terrador peered into Cyril's sapphire eyes. "You were doing so well with your ego as well..." He added with amusement.
"Bah!" Cyril harrumphed, swiftly turned tail and leaving the tent, mimicking Terrador in an obnoxious tone. Once he was outside, Cyril stared up at the moon and couldn't help the smile that formed. Perhaps Avalar could be their salvation after all.
Cynder wandered downstream, kicking various stones and the like into the river in anger. How dare they build her up like this only to basically call her a side-kick. Just an assistant to this mythical purple dragon nonsense. What the hell made purple dragons so special anyway? Oh, they can wield four elements, making everyone null and void in their prowess.
I swear if I see a purple dragon in need, I'm leaving him or her on her own. Cynder thought hatefully as she lay before the river, dipping her claws into the cool liquid. Inquisitive fish swirled around her claws before departing, rubbing against them in the process.
She couldn't find herself hating the Guardians themselves for this information, no matter how hard she tried. They only relayed the information; Viberian especially didn't seem the spiting type. Maybe she should apologize for the outburst when she calmed. It wasn't exactly their fault, anyway. Maybe Volteer saved a book on these super-powered dragons.
Then, her thoughts shifted. Could she be a purple dragon? Examining her claws, she saw the dark purple gleam in them under a certain angle, but it looked...unnatural now that she inspected it further. She began to suspect that this purple wasn't normal, and it drove concern like an ice cold knife through her body. What if this was what remained of Convexity on her? If so, how was she going to handle it?
Cynder clicked her talons loudly on a rock, unsure of what to do. It didn't seem to be harming her, but her anger...could that be a cause of this? Or was she always this easy to set off? Maybe Terrador knew the answer to this.
"Come out, now." Cynder suddenly called out. Silence. "I know you are there, and now is not the time to test my patience." She warned through a hiss.
Sure enough, the sounds of movement could be heard from behind her. Craning her head back with a slotted gaze, she watched as a black dragon stepped out of the woods, head held low in submission. When the dragon drew closer, Cynder noted that her scales were in fact a dark blue from the way they reflected. Her wings had white sigils engraved into the membrane, and an ice colored shard grew at the tip of her tail, matching the crystalline quills that grew on her spine. Her curved, dark blue horns were similar to her quills in that regard.
Then, Cynder noted the purple blindfold over her eyes.
"Who are you?" Cynder got to her claws, preparing herself just in case.
"You...you don't remember me?" The female dragon appeared hurt by the question, a light blue claw touching her matching underbelly.
"Unfortunately not," Cynder softened her tone, "I don't remember a lot of things, so it's not personal."
"Oh...so that's what you and Terrador talked about." The dragon suddenly perked up. Cynder tilted her head in irritation; she had overheard them? "No, don't take it like that, Cynder." The dragon waved her claws and wings erratically in attempts to dispel her suspicions. "I just happened to be nearby."
"I see..." Cynder didn't let them quell. "What is your name?"
"Yeras." The dragon replied humbly with a respectful bow.
"Well, Yeras, what you doing out here?"
She froze. "I uh...I was going for a walk."
"Uh huh." Cynder towered over the smaller dragon. Now that she was this close, she saw that this dragon was roughly Viberian's age, and was actually taller than him.
"No, really." Yeras stared right back through her blindfold. It felt...uncomfortable, to say the least.
"Are you with the camp, Yeras?" Cynder tried to read this dragon's body language, finding it hard due to the shadows around her.
"Kind of." Yeras shrugged with a meek grin. "I'm not exactly...welcome, but not for anything bad."
"Well then, it's settled." Cynder declared suddenly.
"What's settled?"
"You are coming with me back to the camp and see if anyone recognizes you," Cynder spoke sternly, leaving little to argue, "If they react with hostility, then you are to leave. However, if the Guardians see you able to stay, all of my doubts will be erased. Is that clear?"
Yeras swallowed heavily. "Crystal." She said with a mouse-like squeak. "If I can have a request, take me to Cyril. He knows me."
Cynder decided to grant her request. "Very well," She unfurled her wings before staring, "Dumb question, but are you blind?" She asked tactlessly.
Yeras paled at the question, clutching her blindfold with her claws. "Oh my god, I can't see! Help!" She suddenly cried out before giggling. "Yes, I am blind." She clicked her tongue. "Don't worry, I can see the vibrations your sounds make just fine. I have remarkable coordination as well, so don't worry about flight." Yeras spread her wings widely.
"Lead the way." She said cheerily.
Cynder led the blind dragon back to the camp, impressed with how well she was able to fly. She certainly had grace, and Cynder began to wonder how in the world she could do that. Did it have to do with the 'sight' she had, or was it something different? Viberian was the doctor, so maybe he'd know. Maybe even Cyril would know. Glancing back slightly, she couldn't help but feel an air of familiarity around this new dragon. Her appearance was so striking that it triggered something in her mind, but what it was, she couldn't process.
Story of my life right now. Cynder rolled her eyes inwardly.
As they neared, she saw Viberian and Volteer setting up runes on the ground. Viberian was carving them, while Volteer murmured a spell to make them radiate. The runes connected through the energy, sealing them in a shimmering bath of light. Volteer looked positively knackered by the process, though.
Then, she saw Cyril standing near the tunnel with a young electric dragon. They remained stoic and quiet, but both heads turned when Cynder approached with Yeras in tow. Then, she saw Cyril's eyes bulge to the point where she thought they were going to pop out of his skull. He didn't look unhappy, though, so there was a point in Yeras's favor.
Cyril sent the electric dragon away and stood before the other ice dragon with a sense of shock and relief. Cynder raised an eyeridge at the reaction; it wasn't like him to show this type of reaction. Maybe she was important indeed.
"Yeras, you're alive?" Cyril regained composure. "Where were you? Why did you run off?"
"I...didn't feel quite welcome with the two of them gone." Yeras gestured to Cynder. Cynder's gaze narrowed, but didn't hold it against Yeras.
"Why the devil would you think such a thing?" Cyril cried harshly, causing Yeras to crouch low. "Just because you have a..." Cyril's eyes darted to Cynder, "condition does not mean that you cannot stay! If you truly felt unsafe, you should have spoken to Terrador or myself!"
Yeras regained her composure before turning to Cynder. "Oh there's no point in bloody hiding it," She said to Cyril, "Cynder, you said you don't remember a thing about me, correct?"
"Unfortunately not." Cynder nodded in conformation.
"Well, take a good look at my scales; do they look normal?" Yeras walked up to Cynder, showing a claw.
Cynder examined it closely. It looked just like before; they seemed fairly normal, but Cynder had to admit; something did feel off. She couldn't place exactly what, but there was something in her scales. The black...didn't seem quite natural. It looked like it sought to consume the blue, rather, but lacked the push. The shimmering wasn't shimmering; it was actually some sort of swirling energy.
"Look familiar?" Yeras asked.
"Sort of." Cynder glanced at her own scales, which had a similar quality.
"Convexity." She explained in one word. That was all Cynder needed to comprehend, but she added more. "No, don't worry, you didn't do this to me." She eased Cynder's fears. "No one direct, anyway." She shrugged nonchalantly. "Stood too close to the fire and got burned, basically."
"You...are taking this far too well." Cynder couldn't help but comment.
"Well, brooding about it certainly isn't going to help," Yeras glanced at Cyril, who was keeping one eye on the door, "We have what we have and there isn't anything we can do. There isn't a cure, but I'm also going not gonna go dark side and murder the camp in its sleep. It only took my eyes and stained my scales, so I am counting my blessings."
Then, Yeras clicked her tongue. "Also gave me Echolocation, so there's that."
"Now that you say that...why did you run again?" Cyril turned his gaze back at the tainted ice dragon.
"Uh..." Yeras skittered away from the question. "I'd rather not say too loud."
"Then whisper it." Cyril flashed his eyes.
Yeras glanced between him and Cynder with a moan, muttering something into his frill. Cyril let out a snort of laughter, causing Yeras to turn beat red. Cynder raised an eyeridge, but Yeras didn't elaborate and instead flew off towards the camp, leaving both Cyril and Cynder alone. The Guardian had amusement dancing on his face.
"What did she say?" Cynder asked curiously.
"Oh, I'm sure if you confront her about it after a day or two, she'll tell you personally," Cyril laughed lightly, turning to Cynder, "I can reveal this about her; you and her used to be close friends."
Cynder was taken by surprise by this, but then it slowly made sense. "Convexity was the link, I assume?" Cynder thought back to the meeting.
"Kinship in the darkest moments yields the most fruitful relations." Cyril answered.
"Huh...suppose I can be...thankful?" Cynder didn't know how to respond.
"That is up to you, Cynder," Cyril simply said, "Should you chose to restore your friendship, I think you would find yourself rewarded in more ways than one. However, it is not my place to tell you what to do in this regard; you must make this choice on your own."
Cynder bit her lip in contemplation. The choice was fairly obvious, but the means were not. "I'll talk to her more in the morning." Cynder stated. "I'm exhausted." She spread her wings and stared at the Ice Guardian. "Why was there a fifth mat in the tent, by the way?"
Cyril let out a laugh. "Did you really think we'd let the Tempest Guardian out on her own?"
It was Cynder's turn for her eyes to bulge. "Wha-?"
"Dear Cynder, that mat is yours." Cyril said with a grin.
Viberian awoke with a start the moment the sun decided to send its beams into his face. He folded a wing before his face, but it would not do; he was already awake. Grumbling under his breath as rubbed his eyes, Viberian saw that Gravia was upside-down in her sleep. The poor hatchling must have exhausted herself with the playing she did last night. Giving her a loving nuzzle and moving her away from where the rays would hit, he stretched and glanced around the tent.
Terrador was awake, as he was not in the tent, but the other three were. Cynder was completely sprawled out on her mat, locked in a deep sleep. It was like an ungraceful Gravia, if he was honest. He only wished he had a way to take pictures. Maybe he'd just remind her of it later.
Cricking his neck, he let out a pleasurable groan as he stepped out. Dew still covered the grass, drenching his claws, and a nippy spring breeze brushed his scales. Flexing his wings and giving them a good flap to loosen them up, he saw that most of the camp was still asleep. A few scouts remained awake, but they looked ready to pass out. Greeting them, Viberian went on to check on the runes, finding them in working condition.
Now that the day had come, Viberian stood on a rock, looking over the camp. He'd never been to Avalar more than a few times, and they were just Temple reasons. He never vacationed nor took in the sights. Here, he felt free, and not trapped in a musty cave. Stretching his wings, a lost pleasure, he let the sun soak into the membranes. His blood began to warm, and every pulse awakened his stiff muscles.
Then, he cast his gaze down as the camp became more fluent with life. Cyril was patrolling about and gave Viberian an acknowledging nod, continuing on his way. Some of the hatchlings were awake as well, taking turns jumping into the stream. Then, he saw a black scaled dragon watching over them with a blindfold on her head. His first instinct was to think shadow dragon, but when he got closer, he saw that she was ice.
"Yeras?" Viberian questioned, causing her to jump.
"Oh, hello Viberian." She replied apprehensively.
"Still jumpy as usual, I see," Viberian chuckled, "So, I'm guessing you're the one who grabbed my daughter, weren't you?"
Yeras smiled, her white fangs flashing. "Yes, that was me. Couldn't break in the darkness and let a hatchling die, now could I?"
"No, and you have my eternal thanks for that," Viberian dipped his head in respect, "Glad to see you out of the shadows, though."
"Well, someone had to look after them, right?" Yeras started to hum as she created a little slide for them. The ice, instead of being a clear or blue scheme, was tinged a dark purple. "Cyril is making me stay out, anyway."
"Knew there was a reason..." Viberian snickered. "Good to see you again, though." He sighed distantly at the approaching Earth Guardian, who had just noticed him. "I'm about to be called away, so I'll chat later."
"Oh, do you think you can give this to Volteer?" Yeras gave him a book in brail. He couldn't tell the title, as he couldn't understand it, but it looked well loved. "Borrowed it from him eons ago, only just finished it. Would give it to him myself, but..." She indicated to the hatchlings.
Viberian accepted the book. "I'll put it on his mat or something."
"Thank you." Yeras grinned as Viberian left her to greet Terrador.
The Earth Warder looked slightly relaxed, but his battle-scared face drew heavy lines; as if his exhaustion had finally started to show. He glanced at Yeras, blinked in mild surprise, and then turned to Viberian.
"Here I thought the worst," Terrador muttered before addressing him properly, "Viberian, I have a favor to ask of you."
"Yes?" Viberian almost dreaded the answer.
"I need you to awaken Cynder and report to me by the edge of the camp in an hour." He said sternly. "You two will accompany me to the Cheetah Village. I want you along in case of injury and if we need to make an impression, I want it to be well rounded."
Viberian certainly didn't expect the order but nonetheless accepted. Departing from the Earth Warder, Viberian went back to fetch Cynder. Gravia was awake by this point, but nowhere to be found. Assuming that she had simply gone off to play, as she wasn't foolish enough to stray, he quelled the worry and plopped the book down by Volteer, who was twitching in his slumber. Creating the runes must have drained the elder dragon.
Moving over to Cynder, who had adjusted to a much more graceful position, he gently shook her awake. Her eyes snapped open and at first he thought she was going to attack, but she calmed the moment she laid eyes on him. Yawning and stretching, Cynder got to her claws and looked expectantly at him.
"You and I are to join Terrador to the Cheetah Village," Viberian explained, "We got an hour to prepare, so take your time. We'll meet him by the edge of the village."
"Alright, alright...give me a bit and I'll be right out." Cynder yawned again before shaking herself awake.
"Seeya then!" Viberian nodded with a wide smile as he left. Maybe he could spend some time with Gravia before it was time to go.
Cynder stepped out a moment later, using the time to loosen up her muscles. The moment she hit outside, her wings spread to capture the sun. It was the first time she felt it since being resurrected, and it was glorious. The way it ignited her bones, and sent vitamins into her system and-...wait, she was sounding like Volteer for a moment. Rolling her eyes with amusement, she figured that it must have been a distant memory subconsciously returning.
Taking to the skies, Cynder decided to get some exercise in before breakfast. Flying ten times around the camp sounded like a good start! One lap, two lap, three lap...it made her feel positively alive. Her muscles didn't even strain when she twisted and turned as if she were avoiding attacks. In fact, she felt like she was meant for this. Maybe her element had something to do with it.
Ten minutes passed, and she had a temptation to use her Fear power. It would be for the sake of practice, but not here. Maybe when she was alone. Even then, she hesitated on doing it. The revelation burned deep in her mind to this day, and she was briefly considering making it a taboo ability. With a frown, she locked the thought away and tossed the key, deciding to deal with it later.
Then, she saw Yeras with the hatchlings, laying down and tracing a book with her claw. Figuring now would be a better time than later, Cynder decided she might as well say hello. Landing softly by the dragon, she watched as the ice dragon flinched. Cynder's eyes narrowed, placing that reaction in her mind, and deciding to act on it later.
"Hello, Cynder dear," Yeras greeted as she continued to trace her claws, lifting the book to avoid a splash, "How can I help you?"
"Nothing, just...trying to reconnect with those I...forgot." Cynder looked down.
Yeras lifted her muzzle, clicking her tongue again. "Don't feel so bad; Cyril explained to me what happened. I understand completely."
Cynder's spirits lifted. The sense of familiarity reared its face again. "So...how did I meet you, anyway?" Cynder decided to start at the beginning.
Yeras chuckled softly. "That, my dear, is a long, long story," She smiled widely at Cynder, "Tell you what; when you come back, I'll make us both a nice cup of tea, and we'll catch you up to speed."
Cynder returned the smile. "Sounds perfect," Then, she got confused, "Wait, how did you know I was going?"
Yeras jerked her head behind her. "Terrador and Viberian had the conversation less than twenty yards away. Hard not to overhear."
"True," Cynder snickered, "Anyway, like I said, I'll gladly take you up on that offer."
"Good!" Yeras's face brightened. "Now shoo, you have important tasks to do." Yeras waved her wings playfully.
Laughing, Cynder left the dragon to her duties. Her stomach growling, Cynder went to a tiny tent in the back, where the meat had been stored for the evening. They were smoked and kept in a chilly environment, but the fires from the night before had reignited brightly. Using it to heat up the leftover deer, Cynder quickly munched on it before scouting about the camp. Aside from a wolf or two, there were no immediate threats.
Time trickled like molasses, and the moment of anticipation drew near. Taking a white satchel from a supply rack, she wrapped some food just in case, leaving the rest open in case they found something valuable. She spotted Viberian take his brown one, and it was bulging with materials. Terrador also had a black one, but it was smaller.
Meeting at the spot, the trio glanced at each other. Anyone who looked at them could tell their spirits were high just by their faces. Although Cynder couldn't exactly feel the relief they did, she sympathized. Between the death of her, the Necrolites, and the like...it was unimaginable. Maybe she shouldn't be so harsh on them.
Maybe she should try to trust more.
Filler-ish stuff. Just to set up characters and add things to be developed later so no one screams plot hole. Now, Yeras I had to be very careful with, since I know she coulda easily been a sue. I'd like to thank RDX for helping me out and bouncing ideas, as well as Ornatelycaon from Deviantart. Yeras gonna be a fun character to write.
With that said, this chapter did kind of drag a bit and I am sorry for that, but again, adding stuff and foreshadowing derpaherp. Not my best well written chapter, but I can certainly say that I had fun writing it. Next chapter should have more things going on in it so it isn't a snoozefest.
Anywho, tata for now~