"Hey there, pinky. How are you tonight"? Yheia greeted, catching Ember as she browsed the night market. She didn't react to the huntress. "You're pretty set on this whole 'trial' thing, huh"?
"Whatever you're trying to get out of me, it won't work. So you might as well leave.
"What makes you think I want anything"?
"The fact that you're talking to me. Trying to scare me into siding with your little cult. I know he's innocent, and that you're framing him. And I will expose you". She turned away in a huff, making sure to leave on a high note.
Yheia wasn't going to let her get away so easily, and followed close by, pleading her case, "I wouldn't dream of doing any such thing! I just wanted to talk. We could be fast friends if you let us".
Ember halted and faced the huntress. "Playing stupid really suits you. Has anyone ever told you that"? Yheia was slowly growing irritated, but did her best to hide it. "I'm not some fool you can turn into a pawn. I'm not afraid of you or your friends. So go ahead and threaten me. Hell, kill me if you want. The only suspect in my death would be you, and you'd have no chance bullshitting your way out of it. Now leave me alone". Ember took off as Yheia watched, unable to give chase.
"I wonder how Eiyel's talk went".
Asling was a welcome sight for both drakes. What made it less welcoming was the constant stares of it's citizens, who watched the two walk around in utter disgust.
"Why are they looking at us like that"? Asked Ignitus, shrinking at the judgmental eyes.
"I don't know. But I'm sure we'll find out soon".
Like clockwork a group of peacekeepers halted their path in front of Spyro and his son. A large electric dragon approached the two, wearing elemental resistant armor. "Nivalis, you are hereby under arrest. We will escort you to Warfang, where you will be put on trial for your crimes".
"What am I being put on trial for"?
"You know what you did. We can do this the easy way, or the hard way. Your choice".
Spyro sighed. "I'll come peacefully".
"Good choice. Cuff him". The officers behind him brought forth four pairs of irons. Two rings connected by chains and forced against the ground with a gravity crystal.
They locked the chains on both Spyro and Ignitus, causing confusion. "Why are you cuffing him"? The purple dragon got no response, and was instead muzzled alongside his son.
"We only have one prison cart. So you're going to have to share". He was visibly disgusted, and pushed the two forward. "MOVE"!
The prison train pushed forward, the rattling shaking the metal cabin and keeping both dragons from standing. Small slits near the roof were the only source of light inside the steel cage. The accommodations were far from friendly.
The dragons were chained to the floor with little room to move. Obviously the tall tale that had been told about them was taken very seriously.
The brakes screeched into action, and the train slowed, jarring both dragons in chains out of their own worlds. They heard shouting as the metal beast stopped completely. The heavy doors to their prison opened to reveal Warfang's station, and the three beast hunters standing just outside the main building. Eiyel bore a shit eating grin like no other.
Spyro and Ignitus were escorted to the dungeon, still not knowing of what they were accused. The dungeon was uncomfortable, wet and cold. The two dragons sat in opposing cells, chained to the ground firmly, limiting their movement to their heads. The muzzles assured only grunts and groans would be their last words.
The dungeon's heavy doors opened, allowing two the opportunity to enter. Cynder was accompanied by Eiyel, whose shit eating grin had only grown in size. They stopped in front of Spyro's cell, a look of pure hatred over Cynder's normally beautiful features.
"I'd kill you right now if I could, but you get a trial. I can't believe they let you both share a room. You disgust me, and I can't wait to kill you". She spat on him and turned to her son, her hatred turning to love.
"I'm gonna get you out of here, I promise. After that, we can find you the help you need. Everything will be fine. I'll never let anything like this happen to you again. I love you". She turned away and signaled Eiyel to follow, who politely declined.
"I'm gonna have a word with them, make sure they know everything". Cynder nodded, and left before looking at Spyro any further. The beast hunter on the other hand, marveled at the situation the two found themselves in. "Isn't this fun"? Spyro grunted. "Don't give me that. You should have just stayed dead, and none of this would have happened". From his pocket, came a small purple crystal. Different then the one from before, but it's use the same. The beast hunter stepped into Spyro's cell, and placed the stone on the floor in front of him.
"You're probably wondering why you're locked up like this. In short, you turned against us and are now sentenced to death. But in long, I'm gonna show you what you did. Nothing like family bonding, huh"?
Ignitus grunted in confusion, earning Eiyel's attention. He looked between the two. His expression turned joyous when he realized what he had brought to light. "You never told him! This is rich". Eiyel stepped into Ignitus' cage, and wrapped an arm around the drake. He pointed to Spyro. "Nivalis here, hasn't been truthful to you at all. You see, his name isn't even Nivalis. It's Spyro".
The purple dragons head fell in shame as his secret came out. Ignitus was shocked, thinking over the time they had spent together. "Yep. Dear old dad. Didn't even have the heart to tell your own flesh and blood? How un-fatherly of you".
Ignitus grew angry, Eiyel removed the muzzles on both dragons, allowing them to speak. "Is that true"? Spyro nodded, not making eye contact. "Why didn't you tell us!? It could have very well stopped this"!
"I wanted to! I really did. But I... I just couldn't".
"Why? Are you ashamed of me?! Ashamed that your son doesn't have an element"?!
"No! That's not it".
"Then what is it"?!
"I was scared, okay! I didn't want to ruin your happiness by just, showing up like that . It would have destroyed everything Ciezan and Cynder have. I love you too much to ruin that for you". His tears pooled beneath him. "And now it isn't going to matter. Once I die... I'm gone. This is my last chance. And Cynder's the one taking my life. I think that's worse than anything".
The beast hunter muzzled his son before he could respond, then moved to Spyro. "Not the worst. This crystal here... that's the worst. Can't wait to show it to you. I even tweaked it for you. Before it was Nivalis, but now it's you in your full on purple glory. Your true body, the star of the show".
The stone roared to life, showing a still image of Spyro in his real body, and his son sitting on a log, outside the camp beyond the wall. Eiyel moved to Ignitus' cage and sat down next to him. "I'm gonna show you why you're in irons. And if you look away, close your eyes, or stop paying attention in any way... I'm going to beat your son. So I suggest you pay attention, this is made just for you after all". His shit-eating grin came back full force as he started the recording.
The movie met it's conclusion, leaving Spyro in tears. He had not looked away, no matter how bad it had gotten. Eiyel picked the crystal from the cold floor and tucked it away. "I'm impressed, I thought for sure you would have looked away. I can admire what you're willing to go through to save your family, I really can. Sadly my admiration isn't enough to save your life". He knelt to Spyro's eye level. "You cheated death once before, it will not happen again. I will have your soul. And there's nothing you can do about it". The beast hunter left them, off to prepare for the trial.
Night came and went, and as the morning rays had established themselves properly, a guard escorted Spyro through the city streets to the templeary, whose citizens cheered as he was led to his death. The council room was set for a trial, with a risen platform for the guardians and other voters to sit. A crowd was gathered behind a short wall, beyond which stood Spyro, chained to the stone beneath his claws.
On the platform stood the guardians, beast hunters, Cynder and Ember. Majority would win. Cyril cleared his throat, silencing the crowd and bringing all eyes to him. "Nivalis, you are on trial for various accusations. You are accused of the following crimes: kidnapping, attempted murder of a high council member and"... he struggled to speak, "and statutory rape". The crowd whispered at the final words. Spyro stood in absolute shock. His eyes darted to Eiyel, who gave the slightest of shrugs. "How do you plead"?
"Not guilty"! His voice sprang out, the only way a father's could when faced with the accusations.
"We have evidence proving the opposite. Are you saying it is false"?
"Absolutely"!
"Why"?
"Because I would never even think about doing anything like this! Any of this! They attacked me first, I won and this is how they're getting back at me"! All eyes fell to the beast hunters.
"Do you have anything to say, Eiyel"? Cyril gave the floor to the beast hunter.
"Yes I do. I have evidence that you did in fact have your way with Ignitus. Clear as day and just as detailed. I have witnessed and the solemn swear upon my seat of the high council that I am honest. You have but your word. Why should anyone believe you"?
Spyro's rage was building. Not even five minutes in and Eiyel was spewing garbage. His eyes fell on Ember, who gave a nod. "I have a witness. I have proof to the contrary". He pointed a claw to the pink dragoness, scrying stone at the ready. "I have reality on my side".
Ember looked to Cyril, who allowed her the floor. "The beast hunters lie, constantly. Nivalis is innocent, and I have proof". She raised the stone into the air, uttering words in an unknown language.
Pictures of Spyro's journey through the north flashed before them, showing all of the lies Eiyel had told. The beast hunter merely rolled his eyes. "Obviously fake".
"You're one to talk"!
"Come on! Are we just gonna believe that her magic rock is capable of seeing the past? I was there, I recorded it! Where was she? In the city, doing gods know what with that thing. She has control over her stone, so why couldn't she forge evidence? I have no control over recording crystals, isn't that stronger evidence"?
Cyril waved a hand, silencing the hunter. "That's enough. We've been shown sufficient proof on both sides. Now we vote. I vote innocent".
"I vote innocent". Said Volteer.
"Innocent". Agreed Ember.
"Guilty". Came Eiyel.
"Innocent". Terrador sided.
"I'm with Eiyel, guilty". Yheia's usual self shone through.
Flame looked to Eiyel, who nodded. "G-guilty". The beast hunter smiled.
Spyro was awestruck. "Flame"?
"I'm sorry, Nivalis. There's too much against you".
All eyes fell on Cynder, who looked at the dragon before her with disgust. "Guilty".
Qyysus wrote on a piece of paper the word guilty, and presented it to the group.
Cyril shook his head at the act. "Your verdict must be verbal. It is the law".
Qyysus looked to Eiyel, whose head fell in shame. "Under the eye of our god, you are granted your tongue. May your words be as sharp as your weapon".
From the swordsman's mouth came a tearing sound. The stitches and skin holding his lips shut ripped, allowing for much needed stretches. He took time, tasting the air and breathing deeply. "Guilty". His voice was oddly familiar to the dragons present. It sent a chill down their spines, and they could not understand why.
"Very well. That leaves us at four to five, in favor of guilty. (Sigh) The verdict is guilty. Punishment; execution".
Spyro looked to Cynder, tears in his eyes. Guards came to undo his chains and take him away. He fought them and attempted to rush the guardians. "Cynder please! It's me! Spy'... A shock ran through his neck and stopped his words. He fell to the floor, looking up. "ro".
His words caught her off guard, and she stepped down from the platform. "What did you say"?
His eyes were dripping now. "It's me! Spyro. You know me, I would never do any of this"!
Her claw went across his face. "You have no right to say his name"! She threw him against a wall, and pinned him down with a flurry of strikes.
"It's true"! Screamed Ember, her voice being drowned out by Cynder's hatred.
The others tried to stop her, but found that the beast hunters stood between them. "Leave them be. The verdict is guilty after all, is it not? Why interfere with justice? Why start something with us"? The others hesitated, but settled down at the thought. "Smart choice. Now let's watch the bloodbath". Cynder slashed at Spyro as he hid behind his wing, it's membrane barely holding up.
Eiyel chuckled. "What's the matter 'Spyro'? Afraid to fight? Why"?
He dropped his wings as Cynder reared back, ready to deliver a killing blow. He looked to the black dragoness, "Because you left me nothing to fight for".
Cynder's eyes widened at his words. Only one though crossed her mind. "There's always something". She fell from her striking position, her heart racing and emotions pilling up. Slowly, Cynder backed away, not able to bear the thought of what she was about to do. "Sp-Spyro". Her shock turned to rage. Rage directed to only one, Eiyel. "You BASTARD"! She blasted him with a beam of convexity, sending him back into the wall.
Qyysus was quickly upon her, and swung his new blade, equal in size to his original. It hit the ground as Cynder stepped around it. "You always were such a pest, little Cynder". He pulled it from the ground and arced it upward diagonally. "I should have tried harder".
Cynder evaded his attacks with little problem. She ducked under a horizontal slash and countered with a blast of black fire. It caught the hunter off guard, leaving him open to a tail whip. The attack sent him into the ground head first. She followed up with a blast of shadow, locking him in place with little hope of escape.
Yheia aimed her rifle, which fell to the ground by Spyro's casting. He locked her and everyone else in place with his gravity, making sure they wouldn't get in the way of Cynder's rage.
Eiyel stepped out of the rubble grasping his head. "That won't go away for a while". He looked up to be met with a convexity blast. Cynder had shifted into her dark state and was ready to lay down a beating like no other.
"You were going to make me kill him! The father of my children"! Eiyel took the blows full force, trying to talk his way out of his punishment.
"He's not Spyro! He's a traitor! He's lying to you, just like the pink one"!
"I don't believe you"! She brought her tail blade down, cutting into his shoulder and nearly right through it.
"Fine then. I guess it's up to me to end it". Eiyel grabbed Cynder's tail and tossed her across the room. He fell into a black portal that opened under him. "I'm taking you to the void". He sprung from behind Spyro, wrapped his arm around the purple dragons neck, and together they disappeared into nothingness.
Black was all Spyro could see, apart from himself that is. In the distance he could make out footsteps. The footsteps were getting closer as he got ready for a fight.
"Calm down, idiot. I'm not gonna fight you". The voice belonged to none other than Ash, who stepped into Spyro's field of view from the blackness.
"Ash"!?
"Good to see you too. The beast hunter wants to talk to you. Just talk, so don't go getting into a fight. Personally, I'm intrigued. He so rarely brings people here".
"I don't want to talk, I want to kill him".
Ash grabbed Spyro's horn, pulling him along. "Well if you do, you'll be fighting me too. So watch yourself".
On a throne sat Eiyel, looking into a scrying stone. "I really hate these things, you know that? They can undo my influence so easily. To think a mortal made it, incredible". He looked to Spyro and crushed the stone in his palm. "Doing well"?
"What do you want? Why am I here"?
"I have an offer for you".
"I'm not interested".
"Don't you at least want to hear what I have to offer"?
"Eat shit".
Eiyel twitched. "Well I'm gonna tell you anyway, because I'm just that nice". He calmed his body and sat properly. "When I 'betrayed' you, I had a reason behind it. A solid one. I had expected you to die, but I was wrong, obviously. Instead you fought back, and won".
"Wasn't hard".
"If only you knew who you were fighting, you would have though twice about it".
"Alright, I'll bite. Who was I fighting"?
Eiyel leaned back in his throne and spread his arms. "The forgotten god of death". Spyro's eyes went wide. "That's right. You defeated a god. Possibly the strongest no less. That's something no mortal has ever even come close to. And as much as I hate to admit it, I can respect that feat".
"You sure have a funny way of showing your respect. What with framing me for having sex with my son".
"I know I know, what I did was wrong. And I apologize".
"You think an apology is gonna fix anything? Do you honestly believe that I'm going to forgive you because you 'feel bad about it'? Get real".
"I don't expect forgiveness"...
"Good, because you aren't getting any".
"Let me finish". Eiyel waited till Spyro nodded to continue. "I don't expect forgiveness just yet. I want to do right by you, and I think you'll be happy to hear my proposal".
"Let me guess, resurrection? I can manage that by myself".
"Not resurrection. A second chance. I'll return your life and your body to whenever you want. Change the past and make everything go away".
"I'd rather die than make a deal with you".
"Even if it means raising your children"? Spyro looked at the god intently. "Interested? Of course you are. It's very simple; I give you life whenever you want, you raise your kids and watch them grow. Sleep with your mate and live a happy life. It can be as simple as the breaking ritual ignored your unkept promise. Or as complicated as necromancy. You could always keep everything as it is, live your life from the point I grabbed you onward. Have that powerful emotional moment between you and Cynder, and keep what bonding you and your children did in their memories permanently".
"Why would I do that"?
"If you don't, your son will resent you. Never like his father, no element. It's hard when your parents and sibling cast such large shadows. I recommend it".
"What would you get out of this? You obviously aren't doing it out of the kindness of your heart".
"Keen eye, just as expected". Eiyel stood from his throne, as he did it faded into nothing. He walked around Spyro as he spoke. "What I want is simple. You see, just like mortals, gods die. We live eons beyond mortals yes, but we do die. And I need someone to take my place when I pass".
"And that someone is me"?
"Precisely".
"No. I'd rather die than be anything like you".
Eiyel shook his head. "Then don't be like me. You think that a god's personality is chosen for them? Please. You could take my place and rule as you see fit. Punish those who you believe deserve it, and help those who need it. But you would have to stay absolutely objective. Which is why gods have no sense of morality".
"No morality? You said it yourself, what you did was wrong. That sounds like morality to me".
"It does, I will admit. But it's just common knowledge. I, along with all other gods, feel no disgust to those who do anything of that sort. Morality is so black and white that even those who have none can distinguish between what's good and bad. It assures everyone is given a fair chance at paradise".
"What about Qyysus or Yheia? They seem to have few morals. Why aren't they in line for your throne"?
"Their futures are spoken for. Yheia is to be the goddess of skill, and Qyysus the god of war. They would be under your command, though I wouldn't expect Qyysus to listen. He hates you with every fiber of his being".
"Because I beat him in a fight? I never took gods for being so petty".
"That fight was nothing to him. What was something was his past life, that you so brutally ended".
Spyro grew worried, his voice was familiar, but it couldn't be anyone he actually met let alone killed. "Who was he in his past life"?
Eiyel smiled. "The dark master". Both Spyro and Ash gasped. "Tricky thing, resurrecting a soul bound dragon. Especially when they were killed by the breaking ritual. Then there's his immense power, it's all very complicated".
"What has he ever done to prove he's worthy of becoming a god?! I saved the world, twice! He tried to destroy it and would have if not for me"!
The god sat back, the throne phasing into existence as he did. "He successful brought peace to the world. The gods share the same goal, even if he went about in a way different than ours. He proved his willingness to sacrifice himself to achieve his goal. Just like you. It's amazing how many qualities you share".
"I'm nothing like him"!
Eiyel chuckled. "You really are blind".
"I see just fine. It's you who's blind if you think Malefor and I are in any way similar"!
"Even if I mention your scales? Speaking of which". He waved his hand, to which Spyro looked down. The body of Nivalis faded away, leaving only his true purple and gold in it's wake. "Comfortable"?
He looked to the god. "It's a start".
"Glad I could help. Now about my offer; what do you say"?
"When would I become a god"?
"When you die. Actually die I mean. Not leaving to join the chronicler like you had before. That's why I sent you back, to give you a chance at that life. We see how well that worked out though".
"This really makes the idea of death seem pointless. If I come back now, why worry about next time"?
Eiyel leaned forward, the throne sliding across the empty ground. It stopped when their faces were but inches from eachother. "Because I'll be waiting. I'll wait for you to trip down the stairs, choke on a bone, maybe even get sick. And I will not let you get away. Not when I've waited so long".
"Why are you so obsessed with me? What makes me god worthy"?
Eiyel fell back into his throne. "Because you're strong. It's that simple. Same with Malefor. Though his strength is more suited to taking lives directly than overseeing their passage. You know what it's like to deal with that sort of work, oh student of the chronicler. Is there anything else you'd like to know"?
Spyro nodded. "Why'd you frame me? Why not just kill me and be done with it"?
"Believe me, I tried. Do you know why my punch packs so much power"? The purple dragon shook his head. "It damages the soul directly. Mindless beasts like the bront I killed have little soul power. But you... you survived an onslaught of my blows. All because you had your son to protect. So I had to break you to even have a shot. And I knew that if Cynder took your head, you'd crumble. It's easy to protect your body, plate armor works wonders. But the soul? No amount of training can prepare you for that. I am the only being with the ability after all, which is why my kill rate is flaw... well, almost flawless. Thanks for that by the way".
"Wouldn't a sword have the same outcome"?
"Soul binding! I was going to take you away as Cynder struck, so as to not damage you in any way. Thankfully, that little display of Cynder's hatred broke you just enough. That's why we're here, in the void. My own little world. Granted it is a bit empty. I could throw down a rug or something".
"Why did you wait so long? Why not strike when I slept or back in Warfang"?
"I needed sufficient recording of you in order to make our little backup plan. I knew your soul was strong, so I thought my betrayal would break you, but then your son happened. I do so hate loose ends".
"What about dragon time? You managed to ignore it completely".
"Your dragon time is very special. It doesn't affect time itself, it affects you personally. By moving you outside of time, and halfway into the void".
"And what is the void"?
"Nothing. Everything! At the same time. It exists, and doesn't, to bridge worlds together. Bridge dimensions, lives. You could go anywhere from here. The past, present and future are one in the void".
"So you control it"?
Eiyel bobbed his head side to side. "I access it. No one can control nothing, it wouldn't make sense otherwise. Your dragon time proves that you can understand the void beyond what I could ever. It likes you".
"It 'likes me'? How can it like me if it technically doesn't exist"?
Eiyel shrugged. "Not a clue. So are all these questions a yes? Or am I just wasting my time"?
"What you're offering me, is complete resurrection. Complete with my real body, and a chance to live the life I threw away. For the price of becoming a god"?
"In a word, yes".
"I'd be a fool to say no. Too bad I want nothing to do with you".
"Wasting my time it is then. Fine. If I can't convince you, I guess you can just wander the void until you change your mind. Enjoy your eternity".
"Wait! Wander the void? What about paradise"?
"You gave up paradise. Anyone who gets resurrected through necromancy is officially not allowed. It goes against Kidras. And me, actually. So the void it is. Have fun".
"Eiyel"! Came Ash, grabbing the god by the arm. "What if we find someone to replace him"?
He jerked Ash's hand away from him. "Who could replace him"?
"Me".
Eiyel laughed. "Wow, you really do think highly of yourself, don't you? I'd rather have a rat take my place over you".
Ash was visibly offended. "What's wrong with me"?
"Where to begin? You're pushy, vengeful, hateful, self-centered, overly opinionated, quick to anger, kind of racist, unpleasant to be around in general, can't stand not getting your way, do I need to go on? You're everything he isn't! You are the exact opposite of what a god should be. The perfect representation of mortality. Just a pathetic, weak individual who hides behind a facade of not caring to come off as cool. And you have the audacity to even consider that I might take you on as a god? That's stupid even for you".
"Hey"! Said Spyro, getting the attention of the other two. "Don't talk about him like that. Sure, he might be all those thing, and more"...
"Hurtful".
"But, that doesn't mean he isn't worthy of being a god. What would you call Koma"?
"He might have transcended mortality, but he is no god. He is not the true Koma".
"He redeemed himself back when I was still alive. Sure he screwed up, but I forgive him. No one's perfect. Not even you. Or am I just shitting on your name"?
"I never claimed to be perfect, and you would be wise to watch your language, dragon".
"Or what? Are you gonna kill your perfect heir? Please, you're all talk".
Eiyel stiffened his posture. "I hate this new attitude you've gained. Maybe I should just leave you here without escape. How does that sound"?
"Better than being your slave".
"For the last time, you would rule the way you see fit. You could even choose who comes with you. Live with your friends if you wanted. Bring Cynder, Flame, Ember even the thrask here. I chose power over affection, and you might too, once you learn what it means to be alive".
Spyro's eyes widened at the thought. "I could bring Cynder with me? What about my children"?
"Whoever you want. The beast hunters are but an army of the dead. Most of them live with their families. Most families know of their true self".
"Must be hard approaching someone when they look like you".
"Oh, this? I chose this appearance".
"Why would you choose that"?
"I wanted to remind everyone of what once was. I chose a the mummified remains of a very ancient race native to the realms. Their understanding of magic was vast, and the dragons feared them for it. So, with the help of the first purple dragon, they wiped them out. From everything, the world, the books, the minds. Everything they were died here, but they live elsewhere. Places you could visit if you so chose".
"What were they called"?
"Humans. Rather prosperous everywhere else. Though, they tend to destroy what they have. They sure did pay for a lot of beast killings however. Always were weak".
"Oh right, like the contract that got you to attack me, right"?
"Hey, I wanted to kill you before, but that just sealed the deal".
"Who paid for it"?
"Can't tell you, you aren't a beast hunter. But I could tell you if you were the next god of death. What do you think"? In his hand appeared a piece of folded paper, a wax seal decorated with a skull kept it neat.
"You know what? I can guess who did it, thanks".
"The thrask had nothing to do with it. Neither did Malefor, or Cynder, or any of them for the matter. All you have to say is yes. I don't know what else I can say to convince you that this is the best choice".
Spyro nodded. "It's tempting. But I don't want a gift from you. I still have my pride".
"And that's where you fall short. I want you to understand what I am. Even if you can barely grasp it. Take my hand, and I'll show you what it means to be a god. I'll show you in ways words cannot". The note faded away and his arm awaited Spyro's. The purple dragon hesitated, but gave in to his curiosity.
In an instant, the void faded into a castle in the clouds. There was a loud chime signaling Eiyel's arrival, but it didn't sound good. "This way please". The god of death led Spyro through the immense castle hallways, it's ivory and gold structure basked in the rays of light only seen above the clouds.
Eiyel kicked open two large doors, opening into a room with a long set of thrones on either side of them, each filled with some wort of creature. Two thrones sat at the very end of the room against the wall. One was empty. The other was occupied by a large, white and gold dragoness who's beauty knew no bounds.
"Ahh. So you finally join us? And you've brought company. How... fun". Her voice rang like a hundred.
"Kidras, always good to see you. How are things"?
"Enough. Why have you brought him here? What are your goals"?
Eiyel bowed in respect. "My goals are simple; show him that the path of ascension is a glorious one. Even if he hates me, he should say yes, right"?
She and the others laughed loudly. "To deny ascension is to be a fool. Why would you deny such a gift, Spyro? Such a reward for your heroism is far more than adequate, wouldn't you agree"?
The purple dragon nodded. "O-of course. But what he's done... is unforgivable. I could never accept anything from him".
"The don't forgive him. If you don't take his offer, he will continue to spread what he sees as justice throughout the world. Do you want that"?
"No".
"Then change it. So many want to change the world, but none are willing to die for it. You have done so twice now. Take your place and be remembered for all eternity as the dragon god Spyro! A hero in life, and death".
The purple dragon looked to Eiyel, who merely shrugged. "She always was better with words than me. It's your choice".
Spyro looked on at the gods, their influence believed by so many to be coincidence, was now proven real before his very eyes. His family crossed his mind. He'd never see them again if he said no, they'd live with the guilt that they had betrayed him. Spyro couldn't let that be his final gift, he had to grow with them. He had to become a god.
"I'll do it". He said confidently. "Not for any of you however. I'll do it for my family. For Cynder, for Ash. My friends. But I will not be like Eiyel, I will be just and fair and always put others before myself".
Kidras nodded. "That's how he was at first too".
The void took over the castle, and Spyro found himself back in the abyss, Eiyel sitting in his throne, a smile across his lips. "Bow before me, and secure your life after death". Spyro did as instructed, as much as he hated bowing before Eiyel. "From ash you rise, from dust you stand, from mortality you ascend to godhood. The world will know your name. Some will fear it, others will praise it. And all those will be influenced by it. Rise now, and take your place as Death. May your scythe be ever sharp".
Spyro stood from his position, feeling no different. "Did it work"?
"You'll have to die to find out. But now that you are officially my replacement", in his hand appeared the letter, still sealed, "you have the right to know who wanted you dead".
Spyro reached for the note, but stopped just short of touching it. He pulled away his hand. "You know what? Some things are better left unknown".
"So be it, oh god of death". The paper burst into black flames and fell to the ground. It's seal popping open and revealing the name written for but a brief second. "Now then, where would you like to start your new life"?
A bit late, but nothing that isn't expected near the end. So there are some revelations going on here, and I think they're pretty decent. How many stories give Spyro a chance such as this? And it's not even the end! It's obvious when I want him to go back to, but I'll try to explore the other options.
We know more about the hunters now, which is good. I wanted Eiyel's secret to be revealed in the end. And this is probably the best way I could do a resurrection without coming off as deus ex-machina. It is kind of, but less than let's say a wish that negates everything. That's a cop out, this at least has some meat to it.
And Qyysus? How's that? Unexpected? I hope so. I think it's a pretty good twist.
As for why on the lateness, well I was building a PC. Is it overkill? To an extreme. Is it expensive? To an extreme. Why? My ego, mostly. I want the biggest dick out of everyone I know, and I have achieved that goal. Good news comes from this however, I'm starting to model things. That might just include custom models for characters like Spyro, Cynder, the guardians and all them (maybe even OC's for others). Hopefully for use in animation (Maybe for others too).
So that's exciting. I'm not very good at it yet, but I'm learning. So if you like my two story series, I might be able to make them into short films. Who knows, maybe even full length movies! If I don't get sued that is. The models are custom, but it's still using the likeness of copyrighted characters.
As per usual, tell em what you think. Try to keep it spoiler free. I like checking reviews and I tend not to read something if the end is spoiled. No fun in that. Next chapter at some point. I have been working quite a lot recently. Overtime is nice, but a break is nicer sometimes.
