Third Energy Chronicles

by largefish8

Anthors note: Now rated M due to mature scene in later chapter. As usual, the summary is sitting on chapter one for your viewing pleasure. Please leave a review after reading and enjoy. Rated T for gore. Note: Image property of Andrée Wallin and is used with his permission.

28. Chapter 27

Another day, another chapter. As per usual, Matt and company are mine and Cydra's while some tanks and guns are taken from Tom Clancys Endwar and is property of Ubisoft. Enjoy.

Third Energy Chronicles

Chapter 27

Hacking Maleforian Empire database...

New Files located...running keyword search...match found

Human Name: Irrelevant

Current Alias: Tiamat

Known crime: Attempted assassination of Lord Malefor

Location: Unknown

Known elements: Multiple...all available via mana drain

Standing orders: Dead or Alive.

Bio: Once a human residing in the rebel territories, she was known to have stolen magic from the rebel known as Megan Roph and attempted to spawn her own cadre of dragons, ending with an attempt to drain Malefor of his magic and life.

She is known to be opposed to all sides in our current struggle with the rebels but, despite having no allies, is a skilled opponent.

All sightings to be reported...

Alert...trace in progress...terminating hack

...

"Looks like those fools weren't informed about my latest acquisitions," said Tiamat with a smirk. It was a bit difficult to set up a Wi-Fi system in a volcanic palace, but Tiamat was more capable than either side knew she was.

She turned to an alchemist set. "Ok...time to get my scales back...caaarefully..." she said to herself, slowly tipping a beaker full of a glowing red liquid before a minion came up and chose that moment to say "My lady?" causing Tiamat to jump and a large glop of the liquid to fall into the then fizzing liquid. "Oh poop," said Tiamat with a faint look...

...

The top of the volcano exploded...literally.

...

The good news was that the mixture actually succeeded in restoring Tiamat's draconic form. The bad news is that her fire immunity had been temporarily turned off.

"Are you ok?" asked the minion, earning the award for stupidest question in the universe as Tiamat coughed out a smoke ring...and fell right back into the mana lava.

...

The explosion was now followed by a series of angry swearwords.

...

2 days later...

"Ok...at least I remembered the ingredients," muttered the now-reptilian Tiamat, "Now then, let's see what personal army my ex-mate has." She marched over to the soldiers' quarters and opened the door as dramatically as possible. "I am Queen Tiamat, widow of Pemza, and the new ruler of this palace!" she announced.

"Hi, how you doing?" said one voice. Tiamat looked and only saw three salamander-like creatures playing cards at a table.

Tiamat stared before one of her eyes twitched as part of her brain went twang. "The new lady's a dragon?" said another one before saying "Got any 3's?"

"This is it? My ex-mate was tsar of the molten mantle and this is all the army he has?!" snapped Tiamat.

"He was asleep for about 30,000 years, babe," said the third one, saying to the second one "Go fish."

"But he was a part of old Russian society!" snapped Tiamat, "He was acquainted with the Rurik dynasty!"

"Oh, shoot, did we sleep through that?" asked the first salamander, "Who's the Grand Tsar of Rus now?"

"There isn't one," said Tiamat icily before she said "Go wake the others." before the first one said "What others?"

"The other soldiers!" snapped Tiamat.

"Soldiers? Pemza never needed soldiers," said the second one.

"Then what are you?!" snapped Tiamat.

"I guess we're like personal aides," said the third one.

Tiamat winced before making a gargling scream as she tried to keep down the urge to choke them all. "If I am going to conquer this planet...I need an army...IS THERE ANYTHING USEFUL HERE?" she said, screaming the last part.

"Did you look in the treasure room yet?" asked the second one.

"Wait...we have a treasure room?" said Tiamat.

...

Tiamat and her three minions looked up at the large vault door, made of heated bronze...and I do mean heated...it was glowing. "Ok, open it," she ordered.

"Ok, I'm trying to remember what we used for a key," said the third salamander.

"Wait, I remember," said the second one before picking up the third and stuffing his flat head into the keyhole.

"Oh yeah, that's why I didn't like coming here," said the third one's muffled voice.

The gate rolled open at that to reveal, instead of precious gold and silver...a library. "This is the treasure room?" snapped Tiamat, "This is his library!"

"It's his private library," said the first minion, "The other one's for guests."

"Lord Pemza always said that knowledge was the best treasure. He collected the finest spellbooks and magical artifacts in the ancient world," said the first salamander.

"Oh, well, that changes things," said Tiamat in a more mollified tone.

"It's yours now," said the second one, the others saying "Suck up." in unison.

Tiamat grinned widely and said, "Well then, I have some reading to catch up on."

...

6 days later...

"AAARGH! SO USELESS!" screamed Tiamat, tossing another book aside onto a pile that was significantly larger than she was. "How am I supposed to conquer anything with this? It's all spells for weather, health, and luck and not one of them is bad!" snapped Tiamat.

"Hold on...I can see one," said one of the salamanders, pulling at the bottom of the pile, Tiamat saying "Sure, sure." before looking over to see the wobbling pile. "Oh no," she said before the small hill of books fell over her.

The salamanders winced before the book puller walked over and put a black leather book in the only part visible of her...a twitching hand. "Are you mad?" he asked before the hand grabbed him by the neck. "She's mad," he rasped.

"What kind of lousy half-rate dark sorcerer was Pemza?!" snapped Tiamat.

"Dark sorcerer? He was never dark," said one of the other salamanders.

"You...did get the memo that he joined the dark side, right?" said Tiamat, pulling her way through before seeing the book. The book had an odd illustration on its cover featuring a small foolish-looking man wearing a dark pointed cap on his head.

"The hell?" she muttered, casting a translation spell on herself before deadpanning. "Dark magic for dummies? Really?" she said.

"They're very highly recommended. The lich that wrote it apparently lived through to your time and did an entire series," said the third salamander cheerfully.

Tiamat gave the salamanders a bewildered look before saying, "This book is supposed to be helpful?"

"Try it and see. 9 out of 10 dark lords apparently recommend it," said the second salamander before remembering something "But there is a safe word that you...oh boy...get the swords." he added as Tiamat opened the book and it snarled, sprouted teeth and clamped onto her face.

...

A few days later, Tiamat had finished the book just in time for the stitches to come out. "Well, I suppose it's a good start," she said, "But I'm going to need something more if I want to start building up my kingdom."

"Why not do what the boyars did; take someone else's. That Malefor guy we keep hearing about on the magical grape vine looks nice and vulnerable," said one of the salamanders, the three playing cards again.

"Vulnerable? He's the most powerful dragon in the world and he's surrounded by vast armies and all sorts of technological fortifications," snapped Tiamat.

"I didn't mean physically vulnerable, I meant emotionally vulnerable,' said the salamander that had spoken.

Tiamat paused before saying, "Go on."

The salamander, now the center of attention gulped before saying, "Well...think about it. The only other purple dragon wants to kill him...and it's lonely at the top. Why do you think Pemza tried to turn you into his consort?"

Tiamat had tried not to think too much about Pemza. The creep had manipulated her, altered her, and left her nothing with nothing but his palace and his egg. Admittedly, it was a great palace, but the egg part still bothered her. But now that she thought about it from his perspective, that would have acted the same way.

"Ok...the trick however will be getting close," she said before looking impressed as the third salamander said "Already prepared my lady. Just send him this letter and he'll jump in a volcano if you asked.", holding out an ebony statue of a swooping dragon.

"What's that? Some sort of enchanted mailbox?" asked Tiamat.

"No, you send the statue. The second he looks at it, mind whammy," said the salamander gleefully.

"Really? No love potion slipped into his food, no love spell disguised as a poem? Just send him the statue?" asked Tiamat, not expecting something so sophisticated from them.

"Love potions are so last epoch..." said the salamander, turning the statue over to show a glowing rune on the bottom. "Just touch the rune..." he said.

Tiamat should have hesitated, but her curiosity overpowered her caution. The rune immediately turned to her scale color. "There, anyone who touches it will be your subservient slave," said the salamander before saying "Now we just need his address."

"Oh, well, everyone knows where that is," said Tiamat.

"Ok...well we have a few spares." said the salamander, Tiamat turning where he pointed and yelping to see a pile larger than the book one of the same statue. "Was there a sale?" she said weakly.

...

Yet a few more days later...

On one hand, Matt was a bit relieved that Spyro was stepping in taking leadership of the alliance dragons and giving him the free time he needed. With Spyro's leadership, things were improving greatly for the dragons' quarters with better accommodations and the discrimination being more frowned upon. On the other hand, Matt wished Spyro wouldn't be leading in such as a way that made Matt want to wring his neck.

"What's today's latest demand and complaint?" he said icily as another scroll pile was brought in.

"Apparently, they want a tailor shop to be moved to their part of town," said Kala who was taking a little time to help Matt out.

"Did you explain that just because an old advert is on a wall, doesn't mean it's still there. TK Max has not existed for 30 years," said Matt icily.

"The dragons were pretty insistent," said Kala, "Apparently they're threatening to raise the temperature of the city to sweltering degrees if they don't get what they want."

Matt stared. "Is he nuts? He must know I'll retaliate if he does that," he snapped before pulling a mobile out. "Anderson, I want to see Spyro, NOW!" he snapped.

"I'll see if I can get him away from his adoring public," said Chris with great sarcasm.

"I don't care if you have to fill him with so many tranq darts that her looks like a porcupine! GET HIM HERE NOW!" yelled Matt, his eyes blazing.

Kala sighed before saying, "Wonder what's on TV?" before flipping the TV on.

"Don't bother. It's just more propaganda," said Matt, not even bothering to look it up. "Uh, Matt, you might want to see this," said Kala, sounding very surprised.

Matt turned to the TV at that before staring. "You gotta be kidding me," he said.

...

"Spyro, this is madness. You can't just try to cook the humans to get what you want," Cynder snapped. She'd caught Spyro talking to a cluster of fire dragons, discussing how best to carry out his threat.

"I was going to cook them, just make them sweat," said Spyro, "Besides, this city is too cold. They would appreciate the change in temperature."

"Yes...warm for us is far too hot for them and you know it. We were cold when we were down in the Federation and half of the humans were sweating," snapped Cynder angrily

"They were sweating from the humidity," said Spyro, "It's so much wetter down there."

"This is a stupid idea. I won't be surprised if you get arrested," snapped Cynder.

"I'm willing to become a martyr for my cause," said Spyro.

"Spyro, this is getting ridiculous. You've already improved the dragon quarters to make it more habitable. We don't even need a tailor. Dragons don't need to wear clothes," said Cynder.

"It's the principle," said Spyro loftily/

"Spyro, it's one thing to be standing up for your rights, it's another thing to make needless demands that serve no real purpose but to show we have the right," said Cynder.

"Fine, I'll stop...for now," said Spyro scathingly.

Cynder sighed. Lately, Spyro had been getting too big for his britches as the humans would say. Cynder hadn't the slightest idea what the literal meaning of the metaphor meant, but it was certainly appropriate to describe Spyro's swollen ego.

She turned to head back to their home before pausing as she saw a small dragon, looking a little scorched, dropping off a scroll. "Huh, what's this?" asked Cynder before carefully unrolling the scroll. She read a few lines before she began to laugh...till she saw the seal.

...

This news was extremely urgent and thus called for a full staff meeting. Everyone of considerable significance was summoned together to discuss this most unbelievable of news.

Spyro, dragged along rather unwillingly, snapped. "Why have you dragged us here?"

Matt opened up a letter before reading. "You are cordially invited to the wedding of Malefor the great and his soon-to-be mate," he said.

There was a lengthy pause before Spyro asked, "Is this a joke?"

"Apparently not, it's all over the TV too. He announced an immediate end to hostilities and my men at the border say his troops have fallen back," said Matt.

"Yeah...let's see if that's actually true," said Megan as she flipped on the TV.

The view was immediately of the weekly 'propaganda show' as the gang called it and as usual, Malefor was center stage...though something seemed off. Maybe it was the way he was smiling warmly...or more precisely how one of his eyes was pointed at the ceiling. "He looks drunk," said Matt.

"My fellow dragons, rejoice as I have found the love of my life and she shall soon be your queen," said Malefor.

Matt was the first to react, falling off his chair as he laughed his head off. Others were soon to join him as Malefor continued to extoll praise towards his fiancé.

"What is this even? Is it April and nobody told me?" managed Spyro between gasps

"And you what the best part is? We got invitations!" said Matt before laughing even louder.

Cynder nodded, all she was able to do from laughing herself breathless, Chris saying "So are we going or not?"

"Fuck no. This couldn't be a more obvious trap if he had a top hat on," said Matt.

"Pity, I wouldn't have mind going to a formal wedding," said Contrinya, "Something with more class than what's available here."

"The last time they made a ceasefire offer was a ceasefire to let civilians collect harvest before they evacuated behind the wall...they killed 400,000 people..." said Matt darkly before saying, "Give me one good reason to go."

"Free food?" suggested Striker.

"Once bitten, twice shy. No deal," said Matt.

"Who's the lucky girl anyways?" asked Mei-Lee.

"No idea...maybe it's a surprise?" said Matt.

"Well, my dad wants to know," said Mei-Lee.

"We are not part of the Federation," said Matt only for Mei-Lee to say "But our airships are."

"I thought we already had our own airships," said Gary.

"Yes...and my father will be eager to discuss exactly how you got the gravity engines for those without examining ours," said Mei-Lee.

"I'll go over it next time I see him," said Matt.

"Oh, you'll see him alright, at that wedding," said Mei-Lee.

"We're not going," continued Matt only for Mei-Lee to say "Then our airships return home."

"If the peace lasts, they may not be necessary," said Gary with naïve optimism.

"Gary, read up on Malefor more while we're gone," said Matt, adding the last part with a glare at Mei-Lee who said "I will guard things until your return."

"Oh like your dad won't want to see his little girl again?" asked Techo condescendingly.

"I doubt he will need me..." began Mei-Lee before her wrist computer, a Chinese model, beeped with a message. Mei-Lee check the message before saying something that was probably impolite in Cantonese.

"You mad? I thought you'd like a trip outside the city so I may have dropped a few hints," said Matt with a grin.

Mei-Lee glared before saying, "Fine, but I've got a few demands first."

"Why do we have to listen to them?" asked Chris.

"Because I've got my father backing me up," said Mei-Lee before glaring as someone made a cough that sounded like 'spoiled brat'.

"And what are those demands, princess?" said Chris.

"I know you have a device that reverse the ascension process by now," said Mei-Lee, "You've obviously used it yourself plenty of times."

"It's not a perfect version," said Xaoc, "High emotions can cause ze subject to revert. Zere's no current vay to make somevun permanently human."

"I know that, but I'm at least willing to settle for dragonian. I want to be able to walk upright again," said Mei-Lee.

"We don't have a stable draconian device. The one you saw during my episode only had a temporary effect. We're not making one for your personal use," said Matt.

"Oh please. Everyone knows you and your mistress change forms all the time," said Mei-Lee.

"I do...and I can barely hold it...and this either. I've started waking up with wings," snapped Matt angrily.

"Then what about those feathers? Can't you use them to progress your reverse-ascension technology?" asked Mei-Lee.

"Magic and technology do not mingle so readily," said Contrinya, "I'm not sure how Malefor has managed to get his machines working, but changing their flow is not as simple as sticking one of my feathers in them. Besides, I'm not a tree. I can't be giving out feathers constantly. I'm already started to get a bare spot by keeping the gargoyle supplied."

"Fine..." sulked Mei-Lee, the others getting the idea that she was gonna make them miserable before Matt said "Control, ready an envoy. We might as well play our part."

Kala sighed and said to herself, "I haven't a thing to wear to this."

"Yeah...cause it combusts," said Matt.

...

After broadcasting the happy news, Malefor was returning to his quarters when he was intercepted by Devina. "My lord, are you certain the rebels will fall for this trick?" she asked.

"Trick?" said Malefor.

"Yes, we tried this in the first year of the war. It was successful, yes but they will not fall for it again. Their new allies will spot an ambush easily," said Devina calmly only to stare as Malefor said "Why would I turn the happiest day of my life into a battle?"

"My lord, you mean you were being sincere?" asked Devina not believing her ears.

"Of course, you must meet her," said Malefor with a smile.

"Malefor, I'm not sure you should be marrying so quickly. You barely even know her," said Devina. "Actually, I met her once before," said Malefor, "It just took me a while to realize how lovely she was."

Devina glared, a little of the green eyed monster showing its face in her glare before the door opened and she walked in beside Malefor. "So you are the new...YOU!" she said, glaring as she recognized the figure, before gasping as her energy was drawn out and she petrified.

"Such a shame," said Malefor, "I was going to have her be one of the bridesmaids."

Tiamat walked out of the shadows. "There's always others," she said, inhaling the last of Devina's mana. Her shoulder squirmed a bit before a new head sprouted up. "Look at it this way, you'll be able to stay close to him," said Tiamat smugly to Devina's transplanted head.

A second later the head was re-absorbed. "I don't want a double look for the wedding," she said before saying, "I do hope the invitees come. I want to see them all when we change this world for the better."

"Yes, I want them all to see my mate and the future mother of my heirs. Speaking of which..." started Malefor.

Tiamat cringed and said, "Sorry, getting new heads gives me a pretty migraine. I need to go lie down for a while." Malefor glared before Tiamat snapped "Go away and help your people or something."

Malefor's eyes glowing pink for a while before his smile returned, "Of course."

As soon as Malefor walked out, Tiamat gagged. "Ugh, lay his eggs? I can barely think of getting into bed with him," she muttered.

"Any true dragoness would be privileged to mate with him," said the remnant of Devina in her head.

"Oh shut up before I transplant your mind into your statue of a body," snapped Tiamat.

"Gold digger," muttered Devina before going silent.

"Very soon, I'll have my own Empire...and a civilization of dragonkind to rule," said Tiamat to herself.

...

There were a couple of hurdles that Matt's team had to go through in order to be presentable for the ball. The proper outfits weren't a problem. Dress uniforms weren't hard to find for the men and Mei-Lee and Contrinya will able to contribute dresses for the ladies. However, there were a few things that pushed them to the breaking point. "A formal ball with escorts being mandatory?" snapped Matt, "Did Ghoulwyrm organize this thing?"

"We're going into the enemy den. We'd be stupid to go unarmed," said Chris.

"Not that kind of escort," said Matt in an annoyed tone, "We're each expected to have a date."

"Kala," said Matt promptly as Kala said "Matt."

"If I have to come, Gary's coming with me," said Megan.

"I have Yanshi to escort me," said Mei-Lee.

Contrinya frowned and said, "Who can I get on such short notice?"

"You can be the ship's pet," said Chris rather scathingly.

"I thought that your dino was the pet," said Contrinya only for Striker to hiss at her.

"No, he's gonna be escorting Firestar," said Matt.

Chris looked surprised before saying "Yes...of course." glaring at Striker.

Contrinya sighed and said, "I suppose I can go with your captain. He's at least the most impressively built among you."

"You on my arm? Are you sure your dignity can survive that?" asked Chris scathingly.

"I need someone watching my back, plus a professional magic user if things go screwy," said Matt, "So you two are going together even if I have to handcuff you."

"Urgh..." muttered Contrinya before Matt said "Ok...let's go. There should be at least one private jet left."

...

The trip was a bit tense since everyone was half-expecting the ship to be blown out of the air any minute. The Federation had lent them one of their airships for the trip so there wasn't too much worry, given the ship had enough firepower to flatten a small county. "Ok, when we land...well, not best behavior. Just don't restart the war till we are back home," said Matt.

"When do we eat?" asked Striker.

"Can't you think of anything besides food?" snapped Firestar. She had seemed unusually perky about going, but apparently that mood had soured.

"Went to Copenhagen once...very nice burger house," said Striker happily.

Firestar gave an annoyed snort before walking to the other side of the jet.

"How long till we get there?" said Matt, icily. The argument had been going on all flight.

"About an hour more," said the pilot.

"Right...open a hatch. We'll fly the rest of the way," snapped Matt.

"Now calm down, I'm sure I can make the two behave," said Contrinya.

"If you're suggesting putting them to sleep..." started Matt only for Firestar started to hiss and snap angrily at Striker who was doing the same thing, "Do it."

"Very well, everyone else cover their ears please unless you want to nap before we arrive," said Contrinya.

The pilot just turned his headset to full block while everyone else covered their ears. A little bit of firebird song later and the two raptors were fast asleep. "Much better. What's up with them anyways?" asked Kala.

"How should I know?" asked Matt.

"They're your siblings. Well, adopted sibling with Striker," said Kala.

"Striker I can understand easily. Firestar is a lot harder. I'm starting to think my sister is gone," said Matt darkly, settling down again.

"She just has been having trouble getting adjusted," said Kala.

"I think she's rejecting her real identity, especially since her human memories would make it harder to live in this world," said Matt grimly.

"That's not good..." said Chris.

"I know, but I just can't find any psychologists who are able to connect with her. Or willing," said Matt.

"Yeah...she almost ate the last one..." said Cynder weakly.

"I just don't know what to do with her," sighed Matt.

"Let her go with her kind," said Spyro calmly.

Matt gave Spyro an annoyed look and said, "She's still my sister and I'm not about to lose the last living family that I still have."

"You said it yourself, she's not your sister anymore," said Spyro with a snort.

"That doesn't mean I don't-" snapped Matt before controlling himself, "I'm not giving up until all options are exhausted."

"Fine, waste your time," said Spyro, getting up and walking out, leaving Cynder sighing.

"I don't know what wrong with him," she said.

"Can you think of a reason why his attitude's acting up?" asked Kala.

"One of Avarona's friends zapped him. He must still be recovering," said Cynder.

"Well he better get his attitude in order quick," said Matt, "He's starting to wear down the tolerances we've build up."

"I'll try to talk to him again," said Cynder sadly.

"Anyone else got some psychosis problems of some kind?" asked Chris sarcastically.

"Nope, I think we're good," said Matt sarcastically.

...

The airship had chosen to remain in the air, the group using either a chopper or wings to land, where another chopper, looking brand new, had also landed, a man in a business suit and several bipedal armored...things beside him.

"Who's that?" asked Gary, "And what are those things around him?"

The businessman turned to look. "Well, well. Our little London saboteur," he said scathingly, raising a hand as the things stepped forward.

"You know this guy?" asked Chris to Lynch, seeing how he was the only who had been to London besides Firestar.

"Oh, Mr. Lynch knows who we are...and I say this as there is a flag of neutrality over this event, did you think Malefor made his motherboards himself?" sneered the businessman.

"But I thought Eden got wiped out during the Black Months," said Kala.

"No. We just knew not to start wars," said the businessman scathingly before saying "If there is nothing else." before he turned to leave

Chris started forward before one of the armored figures stepped forward and hissed at him. "Get out the way, tin man!" snapped Chris before the figure knocked him flying with a blow.

A second later, some machinegun fire was heard, a dragonian female in battle armor stomping up. "Who started this? The lord commanded no combat during his wedding day," she snapped.

"And he invited that warmonger?!" snapped Chris.

"Should you really be that surprised?" asked Kala.

"It's just business," said the man with a smirk.

"Your crooked company destroyed the global ecosystem!" snapped Megan.

The man seemed to roll his eyes and said, "Oh dear, another environmentalist." The man then seemed to speak from an internal script. "There was no way we could predict a cascade collapse of the network and we take no responsibility for misuse of the reactors."

"Wait a minute, Eden, that sounds familiar..." said Contrinya, "My brother Pemza said something about Pemza. Did you drive my brother insane?"

The businessman turned to glare at Contrinya. "I don't recognize your species...at least not one that talks." Contrinya glared. She couldn't prove it, but she had a good feeling that the man was lying.

The dragonian snapped, "Is there going to be a problem here?"

"No, no fighting here," said Matt firmly.

"Good...next time there won't be a warning," said the dragonian coldly.

Matt glared at the Eden representative and said, "One bad move and you won't be able to return to your superiors."

"You're not in a position to be dealing threats, not when we're standing on ceasefire grounds," said the Eden representative.

Matt glared as the rep walked off, chuckling. "Asshole," he muttered.

The team walked into the city and found that in some ways, it was a mirror opposite of what New Moscow was like. The few humans in sight were wearing menial clothing and were doing most of the labor. Most of the repaired buildings were the upper levels, dragons seen flying back and forth.

"That's rather foolish of them," said Contrinya, "If the lower levels give out due to neglect, the upper levels will come crashing down."

"Rather symbolic, isn't it?" asked Megan.

"No...look..." said Matt, annoyed, pointing to where many buildings had gotten their lower levels heavily reinforced with crystals and concrete. "I think they thought of that," he said bitterly

"We ought to use those crystals back in Moscow," said Spyro.

"Yeah, if only we knew how to get them," said Matt sarcastically.

"Yeah, I doubt Malefor will tell if we ask nicely," said Chris sarcastically.

"So which place would be his?" asked Gary.

"That's easy. Find the most extravagant building here," said Matt, "I doubt it even looks like something from Earth now."

"You mean like that?" said Contrinya, pointing a wing at what was basically a floating castle.

"Yep, that'd do it. That seems like a big waste of energy," said Kala.

"Not to an ego. Everyone knows a guy's house has to be in relation size wise to his ego," said Matt, Kala saying "Is that why you took over the presidential palace?"

"I had to, I'm the leader," said Matt.

"Yeah, whatever helps you sleep," said Chris with a chuckle.

"So, where's the lift up?" asked Matt.

"I don't think there's a lift," said Chris slowly.

"So we're expected just to fly up there?" asked Firestar.

"Some of us can..." said Kala smugly before they walked out into what they considered a love letter to Malefor's ego. Malefor did not keep the ground under the castle vacant. Instead, he had a beautiful park constructed there in the heart of his city in which every plant was a healthy green, surely only because magic was used to maintain it. But what did throw out the ego message was the many statues. "Methinks he compensates for something," said Matt sagely.

"Freud would have a field day with this," said Megan.

"Who?" asked Cynder as two dragons, with perky smiles swooped down.

"Hello there, you must be another group of guests for Lord Malefor's wedding," said one of them cheerfully.

"Er, yes," said Matt hesitatingly.

"Super, we're so glad that you're able to make it," said the other dragon, too giddy to be believed.

"Erm…" said Spyro as the two got in his face.

"And you must be one of the other rebels. SO GREAT YOU COULD COME!" the second one said, loudly, causing Spyro to jump back.

"Uh, sure, is the ceremony going to be taking place in there?" asked Kala.

"You mean in the super duper palace? Yeah." said the first one cheerfully.

"Uh, there's a ride for the non-flyers, right?" asked Firestar.

"Ooooh...raptors," said the two hyper dragons, shooting up to Striker who meeped and hid behind Matt.

"Yes, they're with us," said Matt a little uneasy.

"Oh, that is soooo cute!" said one of the dragons.

"We should have more dinosaurs around here. I would really liven things up," said the other dragon.

"Are you on PCP?" asked Matt finally.

The dragons tilted their heads in opposite ways until they were almost looking at Matt upside down. "What's that?" asked the dragons.

"Oh my god," said Matt weakly.

"So, uh, you girls here to show us to the banquet hall?" asked Megan.

The dragons straightened their heads and said in unison, "Of course we are," before engaging in tinkling laughter that somehow set everyone's skin crawling.

"Remind me...when we win the war, to napalm them," said Matt quietly.

"What on Earth has Malefor done to their brains?" whispered Gary to Megan.

"I shudder to think," said Megan.

"Hey girls, where were you born?" said Kala loudly, the two saying "Beverly Hills." Chris saying "Mystery solved."

"Can we just go inside already?" asked Firestar.

"Ok, hold on," said the left one, before there was a blur and Striker and Firestar were gone...though a vanishing scream in the direction of the castle was indication of what had happened.

"Boy I'm glad we have our own wings," said Kala.

Matt nodded, shifting the dragon form and grabbing Chris. "Well, at least you can't be a worse ride than those two," said Chris. Matt smirked evilly before shooting up at high speed.

Contrinya looked rather embarrassed as her escort was dragged off into the air with a complete lack of composure. "Is it too late to trade escorts?" she asked.

"Yes," said Kala, taking off.

...

Once up at the castle, the guests were lead down until they came to a rather spacious banquet hall. "Nice...nice to see the taxpayers' dollars at work," said Kala scathingly.

"He could have at least put this on solid ground instead of hovering in place," said Matt, "I can't help but thinking all this weight bringing the whole place down and crushing everyone inside."

Chris glared before saying "Thanks for that... wasn't hungry anyway."

"Striker's still hungry," observed Megan, noticing that the pubescent raptor had made a beeline for the buffet table.

"Shh, let him. It's a diplomatic incident we can get away with," Matt said smugly

Firestar gave a snort of annoyance and Matt said, "There's nothing keeping you from eating either."

"I'm not...not hun...ah, fuck it," said Firestar before following Striker.

"Why is Firestar so annoyed with Striker?" said Chris.

"I don't know. She seemed eager when Striker asked her," said Matt.

"Isn't it obvious?" asked Kala.

The two guys gave her a blank look before saying, "No."

"I can see that men haven't changed much while I was sleeping," said Contrinya.

"You got that right, sister," said Kala.

"I'm so glad you're accepting your firebird heritage," said Contrinya cheerfully.

"I didn't mean that literally. I meant...ah, it's not worth getting into now," said Kala.

"Explain or be plucked," said Matt angrily.

"I suppose you haven't noticed how Firestar's been intermingling with the raptors here," said Kala.

"Yeah...I do not want little Strikers in the family," said Matt, pausing as he got an inkling.

"Well, that's not been a concern so far," said Kala, "The eligible raptor males have been avoiding her. It seems altered humans are not very appealing to true raptors."

"According to her sister, she had to beat them off...literally. Guess they found out," said Matt, sounding a little proud of having averted a...problem.

"And you think she's happy about that?" asked Kala.

"Well, yeah, that's what she wanted, right?" asked Matt.

"She didn't want to be chosen just because she's single and attractive by raptor standards. Not all raptors choose their mates for life," said Kala, "Now all the good ones are keeping their distance."

"Not helping," said Matt with a twitch before everyone screamed as the perky dragonesses from hell popped back up.

"Are you two like...not hungry?" said one of them chirpily.

"Raptors don't take as much time to get their appetites back after flights like the rest of us," said Chris.

"Aw...and we went to all this trouble to bake..." said the second one.

"Aren't you sure you wouldn't like a bit of cake?" asked one of the dragonesses.

"It's so yummy and scrumptious," said the other dragoness.

"Uh, no thanks. I never have dessert before dinner," said Kala. The duo dropped their perky attitudes and gave them a death glare.

"Eat that cake or you'll be made into the next course," they both said in a dark tone.

The group jumped at that, before looking at the...food that emerged, if it could be called food. Clearly dragons were not natural bakers. However. it was possible poisoning or certain baking.

"Uh, maybe I should have a bit of the main course first," said Matt, "You do have roast meat, right?"

The left one screamed "EAT THE CUPCAKE!", Matt snatching one quickly before chomping down.

"Good, isn't it?" asked the right one, an undertone of menace in her voice.

Matt nodded weakly before finishing the cake, the dragonesses nodding before turning to the others. "Your turn," the second one said back in her cheerful voice.

"Uh, I need to feed my tail," said Megan as her dragon-headed tail reached forward and picked up a cupcake before swallowing it. "Mmm...tasty," said Megan, though her tail was looking oddly nauseous.

"Oh...would you like some more?" said the left dragoness cheerfully, everyone saying "NO!" before Matt said "We'll...spoil...our...dinner and that would...upset...Malefor?" the dragonesses glaring before the left one said "Okie dokie." with a smile before they practically bounced off. Matt waited for a second before he scrambled for his medical kit and the antidote shots.

Megan's tail spat out the cupcake and chittered and hissed at Megan in a very offended tone. "I think my insides are dissolving," moaned Chris.

"Keep it together, soldier. The antidote's on its way," said Matt.

"Ugh...where's the trash can?" asked Chris, stumbling off to the side, approaching one of the several Malefor statues in the room.

Megan sighed before her magical sense tingled. "Chris," she called before wincing as the eyes on the statue zapped Chris.

Chris cried out in pain as he was forced to his knees. Green scales started appearing over his visible skin which became more apparent as his clothes were ripped open by his growing body. And it wasn't just the new wings and tail that were causing them to split open, Chris seemed to be putting on more mass than before. Even though his limbs were reconfiguring into quadrupedal form, it was obvious that he'd be even taller when he stood up than he was in human form. In fact, by the time his transformation finished, he was a mighty earth dragon that looked to be in the same weight class as Malefor. Chris slowly pulled himself up and muttered, "Oh man...that was my one dress uniform."

Matt sighed, "Chris...Malefor is a giant asshole. First thought that comes to mind."

Chris hesitatingly put one paw forward only to trip and land on his snout, the impact causing all the glasses to rattle. "How comes I'm so huge?" he grumbled.

Matt looked up before spotting a small emitter in the statue's eyes before he nodded to Megan. "Shall we?" he said, pulling out one of the new rocket pistols before they blasted each statue's head in turn.

"This is fun," said Megan, "Diplomatic immunity rocks."

"They can bill us," said Matt as the far doors opened and the dragon himself walked in. "What in Warfang is...MY STATUES!" Malefor roared before twitching.

"Oh look, the drake of the hour," said Matt. Spyro and Cynder looked puzzled as Matt winked at them before he practically skipped over to Malefor. "Hey there, jackass. How's the war going? Oh wait...I know..." he said rudely, Malefor twitching a little but the smile remaining.

"Wow, I didn't think Malefor had that much self-control," said Cynder.

"He doesn't. Look at his claws," said Megan, pointing to where the ground had been crushed to gravel by Malefor who said "Commander Blaze...so nice you could come."

"Nah, don't go by Blaze anymore. Unless I'm in the bed, amiright fellas?" said Matt obnoxiously loud.

"I am literally not hearing this right now," said Kala as she walked away.

Megan put a hand in front of Kala. "If I'm right. We could shoot at him and he can't retaliate. Consider this a golden opportunity," she said with a fang-filled grin that caused a black blob-based alien a few universes away to feel proud for a second for some reason.

"So long as we can get Matt to switch to a different topic," said Kala.

"Come on, Kala. It's the chance of a lifetime," called Matt, who was rather childishly jumping up and down on Malefor's foot, though it was likely having no effect at all, except to make Matt feel better.

"Alright, fine, but don't do anything to embarrass me," said Kala.

Matt nodded before Malefor said in an annoyed voice "Are you quite finished trying to ruin my wedding? I don't know why my beloved insisted I invite you,"

"Who's the lucky lizard anyways?" asked Megan, who was carving up one of Malefor's beheaded statues.

"I am," said a familiar voice behind Malefor, Tiamat, in a shadow dragon form, walking into view before saying, "Please stop destroying the statues."

"Does she look familiar to you?" asked Cynder.

"Who cares? Let's mess with Malefor," said Spyro before gliding over and using Malefor's hind leg like a scratching post.

This seemed to be too much, Malefor giving a gargling snarl and walking out. Tiamat however didn't look that bothered...given the rebels were all glaring. "What's your angle?" said Matt darkly.

"Angle? Whatever do you mean?" asked Tiamat coquettishly.

"Oh please. You can't expect us to believe you're marrying Malefor for his personality and good looks," said Cynder.

"Haven't you heard of love at first sight?" said Tiamat smugly.

"Heard about it. Never really seen it happen," said Matt only for Kala to give him a harsh jab in the ribs. "Which brings up the next question; how could Malefor fall in love with you? You drained his mana," said Chris.

"Oh, I was in the throes of my first change, I was hungry. He understands me," said Tiamat happily before her smile froze as Matt said "Ok...kiss him."

"I'm sorry, what?" asked Tiamat.

"If this isn't just a political marriage, which wouldn't even make any sense, then you should care about him enough to at least want to kiss him," said Matt.

"I...I kissed him earlier when nobody was looking," said Tiamat after a small hesitation.

"Oh, come now. You shouldn't be embarrassed to display your affection in public," said Contrinya, not knowing that some of the others were pulling out cell phones.

"Oh, if only Facebook had survived," said Matt cheerfully as Tiamat glared "You wouldn't dare." she snarled.

"Hey, you're gonna have to do it on live TV eventually," said Megan.

Tiamat snarled before turning, her smile back as she went over to Malefor. "Oh, sweetie, there's something I wanted to share with you," said Tiamat in a slightly strained voice. Malefor turned to look at her, his eyes glowing pink as the spell prepared him for another order. "Would you mind...kissing me?" asked Tiamat, sounding even more strained.

"Of course," said Malefor, though his voice seemed strained.

"This should be good," said Matt.

The two dragons walked up to one another at that, the dislike radiating off them like a nuclear reactor with a leak. The two of them touched lips for the briefest of moments before pulling away quickly.

"Oh...I can feel the love from here," heckled Matt. The two of them glared at Matt before Tiamat was able to control herself. "You mad?" said Matt with a smirk

"Remind me to return the favor on your wedding day," said Tiamat, her tone somewhere between joking and threatening.

"Oh you'll be in a prison cell on that day," said Matt sweetly.

Tiamat laughed and said, "No prison cell could hold me."

"You'll be human by then," said Kala, "Or perhaps given your recent change of species, there's a more tailored solution for a dirty bird like you."

Tiamat paused before igniting her claws. "Why you little..." she began, lunging only for the perky twins to dive on her.

"Ah, ah...no fighting means you too," said one of them cheerfully.

"I am your queen! Get off of me!" snapped Tiamat.

"Nope, not till you're married," said the second one, who was sitting comfortably on Tiamat's back.

As Tiamat struggled to get the twins off her back, the group decided to help themselves to the real food. Mei-Lee was already at the buffet, saying "Are you barbarians quite finished?" she said icily.

"Oh don't tell me you don't enjoy driving up people's blood pressure," said Matt.

"It is unbecoming of a representative of my father," said Mei-Lee turning her nose up.

"Speaking of whom, isn't he supposed to be here?" asked Cynder.

"The tech-marauders in Mongolia are stepping up their attacks. He was forced to delay," said Mei-Lee.

"Pity," said Spyro, "I would have liked to discuss politics with him."

"Since when have you cared about politics?" asked Cynder.

"What do you think social reform is a part of?" asked Spyro.

"Ok, who are you and what have you done with Spyro? Ever since that little zombie attack, you've been...been..." began Matt before Megan finished "...a big jerk."

"I'm just being assertive," said Spyro, "I've been playing nicely with the humans for a long time and that hadn't gotten any progress. Putting my foot down is actually showing results."

"No, it's getting legitimate comments. You are one small threat away from being our second test subject in the dragon brig," snapped Matt.

"Spyro, you've already made your point, things are moving forward, cool it down or you're going to make things worse," said Kala bluntly.

"Like you know anything," said Spyro icily.

"I'm very well aware of what people talk about. I am a doctor after all," said Kala.

"Then stick to growing red crystals and don't bother your betters," snapped Spyro, stalking off.

Matt glared before looking at Cynder, "When we get back, Xaoc is giving him the once over."

"He might need it," said Cynder.

Just then, there was a bit of snarling and hissing. The group gave an annoyed look in Striker and Firestar's direction. "Oh, now what?" snapped Chris.

"Lover quarrel?" said Matt with a shrug.

"Uh, don't you find that a little gross?" asked Megan.

"It's not like they're related," said Matt, "They'd probably go well together."

...

(Translated from Utahraptor language.)

"Are you capable of thinking of anything besides food?!" snapped Firestar, "I swear, every other thing you say is meal-related in some way."

"I'm a growing male," complained Striker sulkily, adding, "At least I need food. You must need two nests to sleep in."

Firestar gaped at him for a moment before snapping, "Is that any way to treat your date?!"

"Who said we were on a date?" asked Striker.

"You did, when you asked me to come with you! I swear, it's as if the only reason you wanted to come to this thing was because you wanted to stuff yourself at the buffet!"

"No, I just don't trust that winged compy, Malefor," snarled Striker, both of them now nose to nose.

"You could at the very least treat me with some courtesy. You are supposed to be escorting your female like the rest of them," said Firestar.

"Chris and the firebird aren't dating and they came together," said Striker.

"No, but they're not of compatible species like we are," said Firestar.

"Uh...I'm not really certain we're that compatible either," said Striker.

"What? You're a male. I'm a female. Quite a good example according to Nightfang," said Firestar.

"Yeah, but we're both siblings to Matt. That doesn't make it feel right to me," said Striker.

"You're not actually related to him and I am not his sister, despite what everyone says," snapped Firestar.

"Chloe, you know you're really human. Denying it won't change anything. Every other raptor can see it."

"Every other raptor rejected me!" snapped Firestar.

"They know it's a bad idea for you to turn your back on your own race and you shouldn't give up being human just because the world you knew is gone," said Striker before making a monumental mistake, "Besides, I don't think you're my type anyways."

Firestar, who had been listening suddenly twitched before baring her teeth as Striker realized the verbal mine he'd trodden on. "Wait, I didn't mean-" he began before he was tail whipped into the buffet.

...

Everyone jumped as the raptors' bickering culminated in Firestar tail whipping Striker into the buffet. "Chloe, what the hell?" snapped Matt. The she-raptor only roared at Matt before running off. "Chloe, come back!" yelled Matt. He turned to the others. "I'm going after her. Don't annoy Malefor...without me," he commanded, adding the last part after some thought before running after Chloe.

"Somehow I doubt this is going to end well," said Kala.

...

Matt skidded round a corner, seeing Chloe's tail vanishing round a corner. "Chloe, get back here!" he called. As Matt ran after her, he couldn't help but blame himself. With all the hassle of running the Alliance and dealing with the pro-dragon reforms, he hadn't paid nearly as much attention as he should have with his sister. At this rate, he'd have nothing left for him when the war ended. He skidded round one corner to see a half-open door.

"Chloe, get over here," grumbled Matt, "And yes, that's actually your name so don't pretend you don't-" Matt froze when walked through the door. Fortunately, the person inside was occupied with another conversation and didn't hear him. Otherwise it would have been quite nasty.

"...and I had to sneak all the way back after going to the trouble of zombifying the dragon lord of Portugal..." muttered the lich, Ghoulwyrm, his back to Matt, who was suddenly grabbed and pulled into the shadows as Tiamat walked in.

"Oh, stop whining, my dear Ghoulwyrm."

"I wasn't aware we were on such friendly terms already," said Ghoulwyrm.

"Well...that depends. I went to alot of trouble to brainwash that oaf and it was your security codes that got me in," said Tiamat.

"Malefor is an inflexible, one-track-minded blowhard, but I do sometimes wonder if it's wise to replace him with someone who could be worse," said Ghoulwyrm.

"You mean you wonder if it's wise to replace him with someone who'd be harder to overthrow," said Tiamat.

"Yes...but at least you talk to me as an equal," said Ghoulwyrm scathingly.

"You won't have any need to overthrow me. Unlike Malefor, I can bring this war to an end a lot faster and be able to unify all the people. A loyal second-in-command would be in very good standing in this new world," said Tiamat.

"Not interested. I work alone," said Ghoulwyrm, adding, "The only reason I'm helping you is that Malefor insulted me once too often..."

"We'll talk about territories once he's been dealt with," said Tiamat, "And I should warn you: I do not lose what I've gained."

"Meaning you're not gonna share. Wonderful. Here's the new boss, same as the old boss," muttered Ghoulwyrm before sniffing and pausing.

...

Matt was not that surprised to be hearing all this. He figured that Tiamat had somehow mind whammied Malefor and was just marrying him for his power. Ghoulwyrm was somewhat of a small surprise, though Matt figured that of Malefor's current generals, he seemed most like the maverick sort.

He turned and glared at Firestar who had her claws over his mouth before miming for her to let go. Firestar shook her head. She seemed a bit rattled to be in the presence of such two big predators who'd surely eat them if they found them spying on them.

Matt glared before pointing to the door before doing a trick he knew worked on Striker; he pinched her nostrils. Firestar quickly let go but at least she had the good sense to not make a sound.

Matt nodded before peering out, Ghoulwyrm and Tiamat apparently talking about mind whammying Malefor before looking questioningly at Firestar who shrugged They had heard all that they needed to. Right now, he had to get back to the others and share this bit of castle gossip.

"Ok, we gotta get out of here," he hissed to Firestar, looking around before grabbing a knife out of a hidden pocket and tossing it into the far corner.

The two villains turned their backs as Matt sneaked to the door and slipped out, standing where only Firestar could see him before making a 'don't move' motion. However, Firestar was trembling, her 'flee' instinct yelling at her to run.

Matt waved his hands desperately before Tiamat snapped "When I catch who's in here, I'll use your ribs for toothpicks."

Firestar's willpower soon gave out and she made a desperate dash for the door. Ghoulwyrm smirked, a beam of translucent power shooting out from his fist and hitting Firestar, who froze in mid-stride

"Well, well, what have we here?" asked Tiamat, "One of those raptors."

"Oh, not just any raptor," said Ghoulwyrm, "This particular raptor happens to be Commander Lynch's blood sister, though her current and former personalities disagree about that." Tiamat peered closer before sticking a phased hand into Firestar's head, causing her eyes to roll. "I wasn't aware that you were learned in mind-based magic," said Ghoulwyrm.

"When you have spare heads that can disagree with you, it becomes a necessity," said Tiamat.

"Fine, so why scramble her brain? She can't rat on her brother if she can't form sentences," snapped Ghoulwyrm.

"I just want to verify if there are two separate personalities in there," said Tiamat.

"Well?" said Ghoulwyrm before walking up to the refocusing raptor and yelling "BOOGA BOOGA!" in her face. Firestar yelped before falling backwards. As she fell, there was a small flash of light and a young woman landed on her rear instead of the raptor.

Ghoulwyrm, to his credit, immediately span to face away from her. He may be a psychotic monster, but he was also a gentleman, his vampire genes at work. "Ahem...Miss Tiamat? Surely you can...conjure something for the lady?" he said, coughing innocently.

With a wave of Tiamat's hand, a cloak materialized over Chloe. Chloe only stared back in paralyzed terror, not even noticing that the cloak was the only thing covering her.

Ghoulwyrm glared before casting the only spell he did, adding a rather...interesting nightdress into the bargain. But at least he could turn back without blushing so hard he'd combust...which had happened before.

"I've heard plenty about the mutators, though I thought they and the people they had transformed had been ascended a long time ago," said Tiamat.

"Oh, there are still some of those dinosaurs around," said Ghoulwyrm, "It's not used much these days though."

"Who...who...who..." muttered 'Firestar' in some sort of feedback loop.

"Oh, I think she's turned into an owl," taunted Tiamat.

"I've learned about her state while she was a guest in my music box," said Ghoulwyrm, "Her human self's in heavy denial about the state of the world. That's why she buries herself so deep under her raptor persona."

"Oh, I wonder how she'll cope without it?" said Tiamat evilly, holding up her hand to show a glowing blue orb, adding, "You're not the only master of magic."

"And what will you do with her spare personality?" asked Ghoulwyrm.

"Hmm...I haven't thought about that..." muttered Tiamat before grinning and saying, "Wait, this is the perfect scenario for a little experiment I've been pondering. These split personality disorders are formed when the mind needs to segregate itself to protect itself. So what would happen if you add an additional personality into the mix?"

Ghoulwyrm paused before smirking. "Oh...Oh, I like it...and I have just the personality. Likita will do. She used to be my enforcer...till some bloody hunters burnt her to ash," he said.

"Is she trustworthy?" asked Tiamat.

"See for yourself," said Ghoulwyrm as he presented a sizeable crystal.

Tiamat yelped, jumping back as an orb shot out the crystal at her, buzzing like an angry hornet, before Tiamat sent a blast that sent it flying across the room. "Nice try," she said darkly to Ghoulwyrm who suddenly was smiling innocently...about as innocently as a child caught with his hand in the cookie jar. "I'd almost rather use my betrothed's ascension machine," said Tiamat, unknowingly causing Matt to tense.

"Trust me, Likita is trustworthy. She's just a little eager to get a body of her own," said Ghoulwyrm...before noticing Likita's soul orb had apparently absorbed the Firestar one. "Ah, hungry for new life I see," said Ghoulwyrm, though he was mildly concerned about how the soul orb kept flashing between Firestar's red color and Likita's black color. He would have expected Likita to have devoured the raptor in an instant.

"What's going on?" managed Chloe finally.

"Oh, she's not an owl anymore," said Tiamat casually before walking into her vision and treating Chloe to a draconic toothy grin. "I wouldn't worry your pretty little head about anything. It's about to become very crowded in there," said Tiamat before grabbing the color-shifting soul orb and plunging it into Chloe's forehead.

Chloe's eyes crossed and she got a 'duuur' expression, even complete with some drool. "Way to go, you broke her. Now her brother'll probably nuke us," said Ghoulwyrm scathingly, Tiamat saying "Wait for it."

Just then, Chloe's eyes flashed as she started screaming. Her voice kept changing, from her normal human voice to a raptor's screeching to a draconic roaring. Ghoulwyrm actually stared at that before quietly casting what he called the 'bunker' spell on himself.

Chloe's body writhed as it started to shift. Black scales appeared on her bared skin while her fingers and toes extended into claws. The force of her tail growing flipped her over, which allowed her wings room to spring out. It seemed pretty clear she was turning into a black dragonian, however there was something different about her. Her sprouting horns were flattened, almost disc-like in shape and her fangs extended further than a normal dragon's, giving her a slight overbite, particularly with her eyeteeth. But what was strange was that Chloe's body did not grow any more massive asides from her additional limbs. In fact, her form seemed to become more emaciated as if she had been starving for a considerable time.

"Need...blood..." the new dragonian rasped, before looking down and adding "...and some pants."

"I can provide for that," said Tiamat, "Guard, come here!"

A dazed and clearly brainwashed dragonian came in, managing to get as far as "Yes my-" before the new dragonian jumped him and tore his throat open with her fangs. Tiamat and Ghoulwyrm watched with unnerved silence as the guard thrashed for a moment before going very still as the new dragonian slurped loudly on his lifeblood.

The dragonian's body immediately began to bulk out into an athletic body as the guard's body withered before literally collapsing to dust, Chloe's new body and its owner burping, wiping her mouth before licking it clean. "So much better," she said in a calm sultry voice. The dragoness ran her hands over her new body and said, "So this is what mortals consider attractive in females. I could get used to this." But then she grimaced and fell to all fours, her body shifting into a full dragon form, though oddly the nightdress still fitted.

"Don't worry, Likita. I'm sure you'll get proper control of your new body eventually," said Ghoulwyrm.

"I...want...control...now!" managed Likita, shifting slowly back to anthro form before pausing and smirking. "Oh...and we have a spy over there," she said, pointing to the door.

"Probably that other raptor," said Tiamat as she headed for the door. Tiamat opened the door in time to see someone run round the corner, a canister rolling to a stop at her feet. "Is that a-" started Tiamat before the grenade went off.

...

Malefor sighed. "Again, my love, there is no evidence that the commander was responsible. We have many here who objected to the ceasefire," he said, Tiamat speaking something in gibberish. "Why don't you go lie down and rest? You'll need time to get your senses back," said Malefor.

"Bleaagh goop biearrgo," snapped Tiamat.

"Er, yes, I'm sure," said Malefor not really able to think of a reply.

Matt, to his credit, had remained silent, though he jumped as Malefor said "It seems the wedding will take place tomorrow."

"Uh, sure, I'm just so bushed from the long flight I'd probably nod off before the ceremony was half-over," said Matt.

"Very well. I'm sure I can arrange some...company for you," said Malefor, Chris saying "And there's the overlord cliché. You owe me a buck, Contrinya."

"Uh, thanks, but I'm already seeing someone," said Matt.

"Very well," said Malefor before seeming tired, walking out before Matt turned to the others, Mei-Lee snapping "Is there a reason Tiamat seems to think you tried to kill her?"

"I didn't try to kill her, but I wouldn't hesitate to do it now," said Matt, his tone turning darker as he spoke.

Mei-Lee paused before saying with concern, "What happened after you left after your sister?"

"I followed her to where the 'blushing bride' and the 'royal vizier' were planning a coup," said Matt.

"What?" snapped Mei-Lee.

"Remember how your financial minster was a backstabbing asshole?" reminded Chris

"Oh, you're saying that one of Malefor's trusted allies is secretly planning to overthrow him?" asked Megan in a surprised voice.

"Of course, Ghoulwyrm kept going on about it whenever Malefor or anyone loyal to him wasn't around," said Gary.

"And you didn't tell us?" said Matt icily before derping as Gary said "You never inquired."

"Besides, is it that much of a shock?" asked Megan dully.

"...No, not really," said Cynder before saying, "I think I even plotted as well."

"Shame, we could have used you working from the inside to help bring Malefor down," said Spyro. The other gave him a sharp look and he said, "I was joking."

"With your mood, we can't be sure," said Matt.

"So, were Tiamat and Ghoulwyrm plotting anything specific?" asked Spyro.

"All she said was about her giving Ghoulwyrm an ally in her once she gets control of the Empire. Something about uniting us all," said Matt.

"So it sounds like we have to stop the wedding," said Cynder.

"And get a homicidal dragon overlord in our face the second the spell breaks?" said Matt.

"Right, that would be a problem," said Megan.

"It is, isn't it?" said Contrinya before saying "Why not let her proceed?"

"Because her idea of 'uniting the world' will probably not involve asking untold millions permission to alter them," said Matt.

"Ah," said Contrinya weakly.

"So what can we do then?" asked Cynder.

"...We have to risk it. We crash the party...and get my sister back," said Matt.

"You haven't really explained what happened to her," said Mei-Lee.

"Ghoulwyrm...turned her into some kinda vamp dragon called Likita," said Matt angrily.

"What? How?" asked Megan.

"I dunno, something called a soul gem," said Matt.

"I guess Pemza was right. We should have thrown all those damn things into a wormhole while we had the chance," said Contrinya.

"A what now?" asked Matt, Contrinya saying "Nothing...nothing at all."

"Fine then, shall we get back to the issue that my sister is now ONE OF THE LIVING DEAD?!" snapped Matt.

"She's not actually undead," said Megan.

"Come again?" asked Matt.

"I've read about vampire dragons. They're a subspecies of dragons like wyverns, knuckers, and hydras, but they're not actually undead. They just get their name from the way they feed and their nocturnal sleep cycle," said Megan.

"I just saw her suck a guy dry, literally," said Matt.

"I didn't say they weren't less dangerous than real vampires," said Megan, "In fact, they're more dangerous since they don't have the classic weaknesses and while you can survive a vampire bite if you get a blood transfusion, vampire dragons drain all your bodily fluids."

"Oh...OH...OOOOH!" Said Matt, screaming the last part in panic.

"If you think that's bad, here's the worst news: putting three different minds in a body that's saturated with Third Energy, each representing a different species, is probably a recipe for disaster," said Megan.

"Shouldn't that be two half-minds and a separate one?" asked Gary.

Megan gave him an annoyed look before saying, "Anyways, two personas of different species in a normal body would be bad enough. I don't know what'll happen with this vampire dragon in her, but it can't be good."

Matt paused before saying "How do we get her out?"

"An exorcism would usually be the best solution, but the right exorcism spell is a bit trickier. Your sister had an unusual mental and physical state before she was possessed and I wouldn't want to accidentally remove more of her than necessary. If I had a soul gem, I should be able to siphon out the foreign spirit from her," said Megan.

"Fine...lets go steal one," said Matt bluntly.

"If you're thinking about stealing one from Ghoulwyrm, you should be very careful," said Gary, "You could wind up with your own soul being in that gem."

"That's why I'll set him on fire first," snapped Matt.

"Or throw him into the church where he'll be helpless," said Chris.

"What church?" asked Cynder.

"You know, the church where the wedding ceremony is taking place. You know how holy stuff burns the undead, right?" asked Chris.

"We...don't have churches. Usually a wedding would be held in the Hall of the Guardians. That's where ours was going to be," said Cynder.

"Yes, shame about that," said Spyro, actually sounding remorseful.

"Aren't you a little young for marriage?" asked Kala.

"I didn't say we were going to be married right before we were brought here," said Cynder, "Besides, we'll probably be reaching adult height by next year or so."

"Anyways, I doubt Malefor's the religious type," said Matt, "Unless it's the First United Church of Malefor or something like that."

"Oh...you know it?" said a perky voice, causing Matt to shriek and fall over.

"You can't be serious," said Cynder flatly.

"Nope...but your face makes it worth it," laughed the dragoness.

"Please tell me there aren't any more of you two," said Kala.

"Nope...just us two," said the two dragonesses in creepy unison.

"Small relief," muttered Matt.

"Your rooms are all ready," said the second dragoness with a smile before saying, "Sadly we don't have anywhere suitable for humans."

"Technically, none of us are human anymore," said Chris bitterly.

"No humanoids either," said the first dragoness promptly, looking at Matt.

Matt gave an annoyed sigh and said, "Ok, everybody, beast mode." He, Kala, and Megan shifted into their full dragon forms while Contrinya shifted into her full firebird form. Gary removed the firebird feather from his hair, which had burned down to about a third of its length anyways, and became a living stone gargoyle.

"Oh, I bet there's a lovely ledge for you," said the second dragoness cheerfully to Gary who rolled his eyes.

"So where are our rooms anyways?" asked Matt.

"Upstairs, past the guarded double doors," said the left dragoness cheerfully.

"And I was expecting the dungeon," said Matt dryly.

"Oh, we don't have a dungeon. We just throw them off the edge," said the second dragoness. Striker looked a bit nervous at that, being the only one present without wings.

"Night-night...and don't go sleep walking. The outer doors are kept unlocked," said the first dragoness.

"So?" asked Matt.

"Well...who'd catch them if they walked out and off the edge?" said the perky dragoness.

"Point taken," said Kala weakly.

"Ok, Kala, you wanna bunk with me?" said Matt, his scale color hiding his slight blush.

"And give the entire castle something to gossip about?" asked Kala.

"Who cares?" said Matt calmly.

"Good point," said Kala.

The others sighed as Matt and Kala walked off, their tails twined up. "Ah...young love," said Contrinya happily.

"I thought you were against them being together," said Megan.

"I think the commander might be heroic enough to be worthy to court a firebird," said Contrinya, "Though I wish he'd go through the proper order instead of being so...improper."

"I don't think they care," said Chris with a smirk.

Contrinya gave him an annoyed look before saying, "But at least I can make sure the ones who are too young to be skipping the courting order don't get too far ahead." She turned and pointing, "That would be you, and you, and yo-" she said pointing first at Spyro and Cynder before turning to Megan and Gary and was about to point at Mei-Lee and Yanshi only for her to see that they weren't present any longer. "Oh come on!" she snapped.

"Huh, wouldn't have figured Mei-Lee would be the type to do that kind of thing," said Chris.

"And you expect Yanshi would?" asked Contrinus.

"Not particularly, mostly because I don't know him too well," said Chris.

"He's probably proper enough." said Megan teasingly.

"By Eastern standards at least," said Cynder.

"They weren't heading for the sleeping chambers. They were heading for the stairs down," growled Gary in a gravelly voice.

"You couldn't have mentioned that earlier?" asked Megan.

"They told me not to tell anyone," said Gary.

"So what are they after?" said Megan

"Going to the kitchen?" suggested Striker.

"No...they said something about getting Mei-Lee her thumbs back," said Gary.

Chris wish he had his thumbs back to he could rub his temples more effectively, but his current paws were enough to do the trick. "Quick vote: does anyone think Mei-Lee is anywhere near stealthy?" he asked.

"Nope...we're screwed," said Megan after an awkward silence.

...

Despite what everyone thought, Mei-Lee had been given training in stealth among her other princess lessons. However, she had not practiced them often when she was human and her dragon body was a little more cumbersome. Fortunately, Yanshi had dragon stealth training and was able to run her through the basics.

"So, why are we breaking into the basement of Malefor?" said Yanshi, a little sarcastically.

"To capture one of their ascension devices," said Mei-Lee, "Those lowbred warriors are always complaining that they lack enough ascension technology to make serious progress with their de-ascension devices. So when we bring them all the tech they'll need, they can stop making excuses and get to work."

"Are you sure this is wise? There could be repercussions," said Yanshi carefully.

"When will we ever get a better chance to access Malefor's personal labs?" asked Mei-Lee.

"After he is dead?" said Yanshi pointedly.

"How quickly do you think the war is going to end without this technology at our disposal?" asked Mei-Lee.

"They will refuse to use it," warned Yanshi

Mei-Lee rolled her eyes and said, "We're taking this technology so they can reverse-engineer it and then reverse its polarity. Why would they pass up on that?"

"Their honor," said Yanshi simply.

"As if they hold honor the same we do," said Mei-Lee dismissively, "Besides, they're going to put their de-ascension technology to good use. And if by some incomprehensible reason they do refuse the technology we'll bring to them, they could at least use some information on what Malefor's been developing lately."

"Be cautious, young princess. This is a dangerous path you tread," warned Yanshi.

"Of course it's dangerous. You think Malefor would leave his lab unguarded?" asked Mei-Lee. Yanshi sighed, knowing the princess knew that wasn't what he meant.

Finding Malefor's ascension lab wasn't quite as straightforward as Mei-Lee had thought, namely because Malefor had more than one lab for different war approaches. The duo had to check room after room, more than a few with research into the rifts. "Just what is he planning?" asked Mei-Lee.

"I do not think we wish to know," said Yanshi finally.

"It's a good thing I still have my cell phone," said Mei-Lee as she took it out to take some pictures. It was not very easy considering her lack of thumbs, but that was part of the reason they came here.

"Just make sure they do not search for pictures. I believe spying still exists...as does the penalty," said Yanshi.

"If this wedding unfolds like I think it's going to, they will be way too preoccupied to even think about pictures," said Mei-Lee.

"Just hurry," snapped Yanshi.

Eventually, the two of them approached one door that said 'Ascension Labs. Authorized Personnel Only'. "Ok, let's see what kind of security system is in place here," said Mei-Lee. She walked forward before pausing, seeing the Eden corporation symbol. A quick blast of flame opened it up to show several technicians and the businessman from earlier.

There was a long awkward pause as the technicians and the businessman stared at the intruder. "Uh, sorry, I was looking for the ladies' room," said Mei-Lee weakly.

The businessman just sighed before nodding. "Kill them," he said, turning back to his work, Yanshi and Mei-Lee turning to see two of the armored...things on guard beside the door, now moving again.

"We're not leaving empty-handed," said Mei-Lee.

"But-" started Yanshi.

"Get one of the machines!" yelled Mei-Lee before running into the room. A second later, a plasma blast blew her on her back, Yanshi turning to see one of the reptilian things lowering a wrist with a glowing blaster.

Yanshi let out an angry roar before shooting an earth orb at the reptilian. The orb hit the creature directly in the head, but all it did was crack open the helmet, revealing a head that looked similar to a plesiosaur. Yanshi stared in shock before the creature backhanded him, blasting him for good measure before he even landed

The businessman was ignoring all of this as he worked on his computer. Just then, his communicator rang and he answered it. "Hello? Yes sir, I'm currently within his ascension lab. Yes, the technology is quite compatible. We can upload the program and no one would be wiser? What's that? In the background? Oh, it's just a pair of spies that I'm having taken care of. Who are they?" The businessman took one brief look at Mei-Lee and Yanshi and said, "I believe that is the daughter of the Eastern Federation's Chinese leader and her bodyguard. No, not dead yet, only unconscious. Are you sure that is wise? No, I am not questioning you, I'm just wondering if this is a worthwhile endeavor. I see, that would speed up the progress. Very well, I'll see to it." He hung up before saying to his bodyguards, "Halt, do not slay."

The attackers paused at that, before one pointed in the direction Mei-Lee had gone...into the device, its snarls having an air of questioning about it.

"Yes, I know. You want to get a first kill like any good bioweapon. Well, if we kill them, who will help us spread the software patch?" said the businessman to the creature which narrowed its eyes.

The other creature let out an annoyed grunt. "Don't worry. You'll see your share of violence before we leave," said the businessman, "Those two are as likely to have a peaceful and lasting marriage as you two are likely to co-write an opera."

The first creature finally spoke at that, "Then why did you give us organic supercomputers for minds then?"

The businessman paused a bit at that before saying, "Well, you may be able to quickly adapt to battlefield scenarios, but you lack much creative output."

"Heh...better than the princess. Either the soundproofing is good or she thinks her guard beat us," sneered the other in a female voice.

"Indeed. The new Chinese dynasty will not last long when she ascends the throne. Speaking of ascension," said the businessman before turning to the latest model of the ascension device.

The businessman pressed a few parts of the device, causing a hatch to open to reveal an optical scanner which flashed his face. "Access approved...welcome regional director. Software prepped for update," said a calm female voice

"Prepare our spies for mnemonic implanting. We don't want them to suspect anything," said the businessman.

"Once she comes out," sneered the female, "Dracov, I bet you tonight's rations she doesn't know anything about what happened."

"That wouldn't be hard," said the plesiosaur, "I bet she rarely knows what she's doing normally."

On cue, the hatch opened and Mei-Lee came out. "Ok, I got a sample now..." she said, pausing in horror at the sight.

"You owe me a ration," sneered the female dino trooper.

"Stun her if you will," said the businessman, not even looking up. Mei-Lee barely got a chance to defend herself before two plasma blasts put her out. "Good. Apply the healing salve to her while you alter her memory," said the businessman.

"What about them?" said Dracov, pointing a claw at the nervous technicians.

"Calibrate your weapons. You were a little slow," said the businessman calmly.

"Wait, wait, can't we talk about this?" asked a technician.

"The princess and her bodyguard are vital. You are not," said the businessman with disinterest.

Dracov raised his blaster. "Hey...Ration for the most kills?" he said with a grin.

"You're on," said his companion.

...

Matt and Kala had managed to secure a pretty decent room...Tiamat's apparently. It turned out that she had not been specific enough when she said 'let them have any room no matter what'.

"Pretty posh," said Matt, "As would suit the 'future queen'."

"I guess she'll have to share a bed with her fiancé," said Kala jokingly. The two of them laughed until the image of Tiamat and Malefor got uncomfortably wedged into their minds.

"Oh god...alcohol...lots of alcohol...drown the horror," moaned Matt.

"Double that," groaned Kala.

"Well...we definitely got a weird relationship," said Matt after a minute.

"I think it's straightforward enough, even if we aren't always the right species," said Kala.

"I'm sure Contrinya will be able to get you out of birdy town eventually...and if not, I'll use her for mouthwash again," said Matt.

"It's not the worst thing that's happened to me," said Kala, "I'm not being controlled by anyone and I can change shape whenever I want."

"For now," said Matt darkly.

"My greatest worry is if our dragon sides will overwrite the rest of us," said Kala.

"If it could, it would have by now," said Matt.

"True, it does make me wonder. Do we really know what Third Energy is bound by? Does Malefor really know what he's doing with it?" asked Kala.

"Scanners don't lie. If Third Energy was nuclear power, every dragon would be a walking nuke," said Matt.

"Even so, I wonder if anyone really knows enough about it. If we're using something we don't truly understand, it could spell disaster for all of us," said Kala.

"Ok...who are you and what have you done with my girlfriend? You're channeling a philosopher," said Matt jokingly.

"I guess firebirds are naturally philosophic," said Kala, "Or maybe Contrinya had playing cultural tapes while I was sleeping."

"It would explain why she keeps taking things from the old library," said Matt.

"Well I'd like to get a couple of things out of my head right now and alcohol seems like the best solution for that," said Kala.

Matt nodded before knocking on the door, the dragonesses that Matt had mentally named 'Pinkie and Perky' coming in. "Yeeeees?" they both said in unison.

Matt said, "Booze, alcohol, hooch, I don't care what. Me and Kala want to get so drunk our blood becomes flammable."

"Your blood is already flammable," said both dragonesses.

"Really?" asked Kala.

Matt smirked, "I've tried to find out. Give us the booze or else."

"Coming right up," said the dragonesses before they walked off.

"Lovely, hurry it up. We have a horrible mental image to drown," said Matt.

There was a squeaky sound behind him and Matt turned to see Kala lightly bouncing on the bed. "Is that necessary?" he asked.

"Just wanted to see how much weight this thing can hold," said Kala.

"It's Tiamat. It can probably hold an aircraft carrier," said Matt with a smirk, Kala laughing.

"Besides, it's probably not the first time she's had more than one dragon on this bed," said Kala.

"Hey, I want to get rid of the Malefor/Tiamat images," said Matt.

"Who said I was talking about Malefor?" asked Kala.

"Oh...oh my…" said Matt weakly before there was a knock.

"Room service," said a perky voice.

"GIMME THE BOOZE!" yelled Matt as he opened the door, only to be buried in bottles.

Kala jumped only to see Perky on the other side, grinning like a shark. "The buttface did say to get all the booze," she said evilly before flying off.

"You think this will satisfy you?" asked Kala dryly.

"Bottles that are full are heavy...I feel pain..." gasped Matt from somewhere under the small hill. Kala sighed before she started digging through the bottles.

...

Meanwhile, Ghoulwyrm and Tiamat were working with Likita. "Urgh...did you have to choose a human under an enchantment?" she complained.

"Her idea, I just happened to have a spare brain in a jar," said Ghoulwyrm.

"And where is Mortis...and Dante? Where are my brothers, Zyvar?" snapped Likita.

"Oh, they were blasted a long time ago by the...rebels," said Ghoulwyrm, deciding that Likita was not yet ready to learn just how long she had been in storage.

"What rebels? Those stupid mages?" said Likita.

"They've found more allies," said Ghoulwyrm, "They had to since their numbers had dwindled so much."

"Fine...hold on..." said Likita, Ghoulwyrm gulping as Likita went into a sort of trance as she checked Chloe's and Firestar's memories.

"Tiamat, be ready to run. One of us should make it," he said.

Just then, Likita shifted into a black raptor. "Is that supposed to happen?" asked Tiamat.

"Not what I was expecting," said Ghoulwyrm before Likita shifted back. At that, she slowly turned to glare at them, Ghoulwyrm finally falling at her feet and screaming "DON'T SUCK MY BRAIN JUICE!" before Likita said "What are you doing, you moron?"

"Uh, nothing, just having a bad flashback. War can be hell on one's nerves," said Ghoulwyrm.

"Anyhow, the host's memories confirm partially what you told me...but if I find out you lied to me..." said Likita before flicking Ghoulwyrm and embedding him in the wall.

"Message received," rasped Ghoulwyrm, spitting a fang out.

With that, Likita walked out. "I didn't realize vampire dragons were so powerful," said Tiamat.

"Yeah, I'm remembering why I was relieved when they went extinct," said Ghoulwyrm.

"You stabbed them in the back, didn't you?" said Tiamat, Ghoulwyrm making a 'hush motion.

"Not so loud. Yes, it brought me time to prepare some spells when the mages caught up," he said quietly.

"Was that the only reason?" asked Tiamat quietly.

"The vampire dragons were not known for their self-control," said Ghoulwyrm, "They would empty villages overnight, leave awful messes behind them, and were very inconsiderate neighbors."

"So...you backstabbed someone who could turn you inside out for fun," said Tiamat with a smirk.

"I can handle myself in a fight if it's only one vampire dragon. A swarm of the things would be out of the question," said Ghoulwyrm.

Tiamat smirked before doing a falsetto, "Don't suck my brain juice."

"I suggest you keep your multiple mouths shut," said Ghoulwyrm tersely, "In terms of magical skill and knowledge, you're still only a fledgling while I am a full master."

"And Likita piledrived you into the concrete despite that," sneered Tiamat.

"I had forgotten how physically strong they were when fully-fueled," said Ghoulwyrm, "And if I know Likita, she'll wish to remain brimming with life as long as she can."

"Great...what if she eats Malefor? You just resurrected someone who could derail my entire plot," snapped Tiamat.

"You were the one asking for a spare mind to slot into Lynch's sister," snapped Ghoulwyrm.

"Then why did you give me hers?" snapped Tiamat.

"It's the only one I had. The damn mages destroyed the others," snapped Ghoulwyrm.

"I assume those beasts had some kind of weakness that the mages were able to exploit," said Tiamat.

"Solar spells. I…might have destroyed as many copies of the spell as I could," said Ghoulwyrm.

"I thought the vampire dragons didn't have a true vampire's weaknesses," said Tiamat.

"Concentrated solar energy is one of the few known things that can penetrate their hide," said Ghoulwyrm, "Though admittedly there are few things that a solar beam can't penetrate. But one other weakness they have is their susceptibility to bloat. In quite a few ways, those dragons are like sponges. They can't help but absorb any liquid available to them. Throwing them into a pond could render them too engorged to even walk, let alone fly."

"We're in the air. I don't see many lakes. Rein her in or our deal is off," snapped Tiamat.

"Fine, I shall attend to the matter," said Ghoulwyrm.

"Fine...do it," said Tiamat darkly.

"You best rest up. You do want to look your best for your wedding," said Ghoulwyrm as he walked out.

Tiamat glared at that before heading to her room...and seeing two guards blocking her. "Is there a reason that I'm being barred from my own room?" asked Tiamat, about one small step from losing her temper.

"Er, it's been 'appropriated' by a pair of guests who said you said they could have any room they want," said a guard.

Tiamat twitched at that.

...

Matt and Kala jumped awake as a scream echoed through the palace before they went back to sleep with smiles

...

Meanwhile, Likita was looking for a midnight snack. She wanted someone nice and big that'll fill her up. And she could sense that someone in one of the guest rooms was more than massive enough. She looked over to see the room she wanted, carefully picking the lock with a claw and millennia of practice behind it before slipping inside.

Inside the room was a rather large earth dragon. Her mouth watered a bit as her vision could pick up the vast amounts of body fluid that were ripe for the taking. "Hmm...I don't usually go in for junk food but..." she said with a grin. Terran earth dragons were usually, like all terran dragons, human size. She grabbed the tail and was about to bite in when the dragon grunted and swished his tail, sending her flying.

Likita shook her head and said, "Guess I'm not as fully fueled as I thought. Time to fix that." She went for him again, only for Chris to start rolling over. "Oh no," said Likita weakly before she was rolled on top of

Likita tried to wiggle her way out, but that didn't seem to make much more difference than tickle Chris in his sleep.

"Urgh...I should have stayed in the soul gem," muttered Likita darkly.

...

The next morning, Chris woke up feeling funny all over. Then he remembered that he was in dragon form so that should account for it. No, wait, something else was odd. He stood up in his bed and looked down to see Chloe in human form, wearing a nightdress, sleeping in his bed.

He yawned at that before turning over and closing his eyes again...before they shot open and bulged. "Oh shit," he muttered, his mind playing out the various injuries that Matt would do to him. "Ok, think Chris, there's a perfectly good explanation for why your commanding officer's sister is in your bed," he muttered to himself, "I just need to think of one that won't get me shot."

He froze when Chloe started to stir. Just one scream from her would be more than enough reason for Lynch to come running here and tear him a new one. He gibbered before panicking, hitting her on the head. "Ok, I just gotta put her in some other room before anyone sees us. Then it'll be like this never happened," muttered Chris.

He picked up Chloe at that, not noticing he was using an earth energy construct to do so before opening the door and checking both ways. "Ok...just gotta find an empty room," he muttered. He crept out softly, well as softly as a 1-ton dragon could move.

He yelped as Pinkie and Perky came into view. "Don'tseeme!" he whimpered.

Unfortunately, Chris's luck was going to make a bad turn. "Good morning," said Pinky.

"Sleep well?" asked Perky.

"Uh, just fine, thanks," said Chris, hiding Chloe behind him.

"That's nice. Breakfast is in 3 hours. We'll be sure to send an extra place up to you," said Perky cheerfully.

"Uh, ok then," said Chris.

"Oh...and a headache pill for Chloe too," said Pinkie, causing Chris to sweat, despite his current species.

"I'll be sure to bring it to her if I see her," said Chris nervously.

"Ok...but all you need to do is turn your head. I know cause I read the script notes," said Perky, the two flying back the way they'd come, causing Chris to make a terrified 'eeeee' noise.

Just then, Chris heard a yawn from behind him and he craned his head around to see that Chloe was waking up. The two locked eyes at that, Chris gulping before Chloe glared, grabbed a nearby vase and threw it at him. "Chloe, I can explain-" said Chris quickly before the vase hit him.

...

Matt and Kala woke up with a shock at the sound of a smashing noise before they headed out...and Matt got a whole vase stuck over his head. Kala peered past to see Chloe attacking Chris, an impressive act given Chris was still a dragon.

"Oh boy," muttered Kala before she headed over to break it up.

Chloe turned angrily. "Another one? Eat vase!" she snapped, tossing another valuable at Kala who calmly vaporized it in midair with a fireball.

"Ah, it's that kind of scenario," said Kala, "Chloe, it's me, Kala. And the one you're trying to pound is Chris."

"Lies! All lies!" snapped Chloe, looking around for something else to throw.

Kala shifted back into her human form and said, "Look, I really am Kala. Now calm down."

Chloe stared madly before snapping "Where am I?"

"In Malefor's castle. We're guests to his wedding," said Kala.

Chloe stared. "The evil overlord invited us to his wedding?" she said coldly.

"We're pretty sure he's under some sort of mind control, most likely done by his bride-to-be," said Kala.

"Then why was I in that perv's room?" snapped Chloe, pointing to the dazed and gibbering Chris.

"That I can't answer," said Kala, "Perhaps you should be asking Firestar that."

"She's out cold for some reason," said Chloe after a pause.

"I'm sure she'll wake up at some point," said Kala.

"Fine...what about him? Should I tell my brother, the commander?" said Chloe, a little sarcastically.

"I would not recommend that," said Chloe, "Matt might not react the right way and very disproportionally."

"Oh please. What's the worst he can do?" said Chloe.

"That's him right there," said Kala, pointing at the fire dragon trying to get the vase off his head.

"Oh...oh dear…" said Chloe weakly.

"Yes, so I'd keep quiet about whatever happened last night," said Kala.

"But nothing happened," said Chloe desperately.

"Good girl," said Kala, "Now help me get that vase off his head."

...

The next morning was pretty awkward. Matt was wondering why Chris kept yelping every time he tried to talk to the guy and Chloe, who was happily in control for the moment seemed to be avoiding him. And to Matt's concern, they had yet to hear from Mei-Lee and Yanshi yet.

"Ok, enough with the awkward silence. What is going on with you two?" snapped Matt.

"Nothing!" yelped Chris.

"No, something happened. What was it?" snapped Matt, only to stare as Chris flew out the window, screaming. "Ooookay…" he said.

Then Matt turned to Chloe and asked, "So, how are you taking in the world around you?"

"Nothing happened last night," snapped Chloe at that.

"You sure? You didn't have any weird cravings?" asked Matt.

"I SAID NOTHING!" snapped Chloe, tossing a plate at Matt.

"I almost forgot about that temper of yours," said Matt after he dodged the plate. Chloe just glared before going back to her food. "Well, at least she's eating normal food in a normal manner," said Matt quietly to Kala.

"Why? You afraid she'll mimic Striker?" asked Kala.

"I'm more concerned about the fact that she's got a vampire dragon in her and we haven't done anything about it yet," whispered Matt.

"Yeah, we need to tell her, if only so she can resist," said Megan quietly.

"Ok, but try to ease her into it as much as possible," said Matt quietly, "This is the first time Chloe's real personality has surfaced in a while and I don't want to scare it back into hiding."

"Ok, I'll deal with it. Girl to sorcerer dragoness," said Megan.

"Ok, just don't freak her out," said Matt.

"I won't," said Megan, getting up and heading for Chloe.

"This ought to be interesting," said Kala.

"Hey, Chloe, now what I'm about to tell you might be alarming but don't panic," said Megan.

Matt said dully, "She isn't going to...is she?" Spyro and Cynder had already hidden under the table in preparation for the fallout.

"Chloe, you have a vampiric super reptile living in your head," said Megan bluntly.

Fortunately, Chloe still had a healthy dose of denial to rely on. "Yeah right. Tell me another one," said Chloe.

Megan sighed before conjuring up something she'd prepared earlier in case of terminal denial. By luck, one of her books had covered vampiric dragons. At least as far as what their 'catnip' was, in this case a vial of pure mana liquid.

Chloe gave the vial an odd look and asked, "What's that supposed to be?" A voice in her head practically screamed "DINNER! GIMMIEGIMMIEGIMMIE!" making her jump. "What was that?" asked Chloe, looking around.

"That's the vampire dragon in your head most likely wanting to drink this mana," said Megan.

"What vampire dragon?" asked Chloe.

"The one in your head," said Megan.

"I think I would know if a vampire dragon was in my head," said Chloe.

"It apparently spoke out right now. Don't you remember when Tiamat shoved it in?" asked Matt.

"That was probably just a stupid dream caused by Firestar," said Chloe stubbornly.

"Wow, I didn't realize your sister was so oblivious to reality," said Spyro.

"Neither did I. Throw some garlic at her," said Matt.

"She's not that kind of vampire," said Megan.

"I know...but she's annoyed me by hiding the last 3 months," said Matt.

"Do it and I'll be peeling your scales off," said Chloe.

"Hmm...ok," said Matt, throwing a piece of toast at her. Chloe threw a knife at Matt that only bounced off his tough scales. "Hah! Scales rule," laughed Matt.

Chloe glared as brown scales started to appear on her. "Uh, Matt, stop antagonizing her if you want to keep Chloe dominant," said Cynder.

"Chloe, you stay in control," snapped Matt. Chloe growled as her teeth grew sharper. Matt glared before saying quietly "If you don't, I'll tell you what Firestar likes to eat."

Chloe paused before her reptilian features started to fade. Or at least they appeared to. Matt wasn't able to tell for certain, but it looked like the scales she had sprouted had merely changed the same color of her human skin.

"Hey, no shapeshifting. No scales or I'll start with the reason why the raptor quarters don't have rat problems," said Matt warningly.

"I'm not listening," said Chloe, putting her hands over her ears. As such, she didn't notice when her fingernails turned black.

"And theeeen they ate all the roaches...which I wish I wasn't joking about," said Matt, adding the last part in a sad voice.

Chloe's cheeks bulged and she ran for the bathroom. "Mission accomplished, Matt. You just spoiled her appetite," said Spyro.

"Yeah, but it focused her mind," said Matt.

"We need to get her exorcised soon," said Megan, "I'm concerned about how detrimental hosting three different species inside her will be."

"Weird eating habits for a start," muttered Matt.

"Has anyone seen the Orientals?" asked Gary.

"Do we care?" said Matt casually.

"If her dad finds out something's bad happened to her, it'll be on our heads," said Cynder.

"We tried to stop her. She just wouldn't listen," said Matt. Cynder gave him a look and Matt sighed before saying, "Fine, we'll look for her after breakfast is over."

On cue, the far doors opened and the two MIA dragons staggered in, looking drunk. "Objective achieved, well done everyone," said Matt before turning to his food.

"Did anyone see the robot teapot?" gibbered Mei-Lee.

Yanshi nodded, "It was riding the robot unicorn hamster." before the two of them fell on their faces, out cold.

"Those two must have been sniffing poppies or something," said Matt, only for Kala to smack him.

"Too far," she said.

"I seeee DEAD PEOPLE!" snapped Mei-Lee before giggling.

"Ok, maybe Matt was right," said Kala.

"Ok...no alcohol for them," said Matt.

"I wonder how successful they were on their mission," said Contrinya.

Matt laughed and said, "Like they'll even remember what they went out to get after their heads clear."

Mei-Lee hiccupped at that before shifting to a draconian form. This got everyone's attention pretty quickly, for more reason than one. "Wardrobe!" called Matt. Contrinya was quickly to respond, a flash of red and Mei-Lee was suddenly wearing a Chinese dress that matched her coloration.

"Ok...now we hide her so Malefor the Muppet doesn't ask how she got her new look," said Matt quickly. As if summoned, Malefor stepped into the room, looking like he was a little hungover. "Uh oh." said Matt, before Malefor turned to look at them, his eyes widening in surprise. "GUARDS!" he yelled.

Just then, Tiamat rushed into the room and said, "Oh, there you are, O'Malley. I was looking for you all morning."

Malefor turned to glare before snapping "YOU!" before Tiamat planted a kiss on his snout. Malefor's eyes crossed before he said in a more pleasant tone, "Good morning, my love. Beautiful day for a wedding, isn't it?"

"Well, there's the spell anyway," said Megan scathingly.

"Somehow, I doubt that's how it was originally administrated," said Kala.

"Yeah...but it's nice to see her suffer," said Matt smugly before Malefor said dizzily "I have the most wonderful honeymoon planned. I know it's not a dragon tradition to have that but it would be wonderful for you."

"Sure, why not?" asked Tiamat, sounded a little stilted.

"Aw, don't stop on our account," laughed Megan.

"Don't you all have other things to be doing?" snapped Tiamat.

"Nope," said Matt cheerfully.

Tiamat paused when she saw Mei-Lee, "Wasn't she...ah, whatever, it improves the dress code."

She paused before hearing matt, Kala and Megan singing "Tiamat and Malefor, sitting in a tree."

"Don't you dare," she snarled

"K-I-S-S-I-N-" before Tiamat blasted them all with large spouts of water.

Matt spluttered before calling, "Totally worth it."

"I didn't know there were water dragons," said Kala.

"It was very hard to find them," said Tiamat as Malefor tried to kiss her. "Go jump in the lake, my love," she said in a strained voice.

"As you wish, I could use a nice swim," said Malefor before heading out.

Matt waited till Malefor was gone before saying "Ok, what's your angle?"

"Haven't we already been over this?" asked Tiamat in a tired voice.

"Yeah...but I thought your 'I love him' excuse was a load of bollocks plus you put something nasty in my sister's head so only the fact you could remove it is stopping me calling in an airstrike," said Matt.

"Wherever did you get an idea like that?" asked Tiamat.

"Let's see...I saw you mind whammy my sister for a start and I saw your little meeting with Mr. Zombie," snapped Matt.

"Is that so..." said Tiamat, her tone become deathly calm.

"Please note that if I don't return home...well, we got some launch codes out of Avarona. Do you have sunblock in SPF 6 million?" said Matt coldly.

"I think you need to watch your tone," said Tiamat, "In less than 24 hours, I will be the new Empress and a peaceful existence between our two nations will require us reaching an agreement."

"Does it include mandatory scales?" said Matt rudely.

"Do not worry. Everything will be voluntary," said Tiamat.

"I'm not sure I trust your definition of the word 'voluntary'," said Megan.

Tiamat just smirked, "I can be very persuasive."

"Alright then, persuade me why I shouldn't blow the top of your thinly-veiled coup," said Matt.

"Because I might as well already control Malefor's armies. If you attack me, you will either end up as a loyal general again or dead," said Tiamat calmly.

"I don't need to attack you. I just need to convince the loyal generals that you're not the best mate for Malefor," said Matt.

"They won't listen. Most of them are already disillusioned with Malefor and his obsession with the rifts," said Tiamat.

"There has to be some loyal ones left. I know Devina always has Malefor's interests at heart," said Matt.

"Devina...oh, you mean her?" asked Tiamat as a black dragoness head sprouted from one of her shoulders.

"Oh...oh boy..." said Matt.

"And there's plenty of room for you and your friends in here," said Tiamat as she reabsorbed Devina's head.

"Erm...I'm a guy...and so is Chris soooo..." said Matt, unwilling to continue.

"I absorbed Malefor himself once," pointed out Tiamat.

"Yeah...and it sent you homicidal...more homicidal," said Megan, correcting herself.

"Right, so imagine what absorbing a nutcase like Matt would do to you," said Spyro.

Tiamat paused at that before saying, "Point taken."

"And absorbing me would just be redundant because you have all the powers that I have," said Kala.

"It would be just to be rid of you," said Tiamat smugly. Tiamat turned to Megan and said, "You, on the other hand, have some rather unique powers and knowledge that's not yet within my repertoire. I would gain much by assimilating you."

Gary let out a low rumbling growl and said, "You will not touch her."

"Oh, the reject, Ghoulwyrm told me about you," sneered Tiamat. She turned to Megan and said, "You could do so much better than him."

"I think I'm doing just fine with him," said Megan coldly.

"Wasteful," sighed Tiamat, "Anyways, I have a wedding to prepare for."

The group watched as she left before Matt said, "Hate to say this...but we gotta stop her."

"Better the devil you know than the devil you don't?" asked Gary.

"That and I just can't stand the thought of that...parasite running the Empire against us," said Matt, "Here's the plan: Megan, if you had a chance, could you knobble that mind whammy on Malefor?"

"You'd have to keep Tia away long enough for me to completely remove it," said Megan.

"Ok...any ideas how we do that?" said Spyro.

"Oh, that's easy," said Contrinya, "We turn her wedding preparations into one long nightmare."

"Ok, Megan, you're with me and Spyro. Everyone else, cause as much mayhem as humanly possible." said Matt. Matt paused before saying, "Er, might have been a poor choice of words there."

"We get it. Pretend to be you," said Chris, before saying "I'm gonna go check on your sister."

"Right, make sure she doesn't do anything regrettable," said Matt.

"Fine," said Chris.

...

Chloe groaned as she left the bathroom. "I'm gonna get Matt for that. How does one get back at a big fire dragon?" she asked herself. She twitched, too angry to notice the scales flowing from her nails or even noticing that she had taken the bottle of liquid mana when she had stormed off.

As Chloe headed towards the guest rooms, not certain yet which one was hers, she took the time to reflect upon the world around her. The shock of seeing dinosaurs, dragons, and mutants has ebbed since she first woke up. It was the fact that virtually every form of civilization since the Eden reactors exploded no longer existed that made her want to retreat into her own mind.

Then there was the fact she had a split personality in her head. Chloe and Firestar viewed each other's' species with mutual disgust; Chloe for the raptors' savagery and willingness to eat anything and Firestar for the humans' misalignment from nature and needless violence. There was also the natural rivalry that there was one body and two forms to share it between.

Despite that, the two did share a lot of opinions and likes/dislikes. However, Firestar was not willing to subsume into Chloe's mind so there was always a fracture between them.

"Fool...and what is wrong with catching your own prey?" snapped Firestar, Chloe's damaged mind showing her raptor self as her reflection of the mirror in her room.

"You guys catch them and eat them raw," said Chloe, "That's going to make me sick. And you don't just try to catch normal prey like chickens or rabbits. You've been making me eat bugs."

"We need protein," said Firestar.

"There has to be healthier ways to get that," said Chloe.

"Like you could afford to be picky," said Firestar, "Besides, I'm the one keeping this body in shape. Without me, your 'diet' would have us as frail as a twig."

"I don't want to be a great hunter or have lots of happy little raptorlings!" snapped Chloe, Firestar's reflection stopping her noticing the changes were accelerating, her form getting taller and slightly more voluptuous, according to Likita's liking.

"Chloe, have you felt something strange lately?" asked Firestar, "Like a darkness in the back of your head?"

"You mean apart from you?" snapped Chloe, her eyes turning reptilian as her hair got longer and turned white.

"Chloe, I do not think we're alone," said Firestar.

Chloe looked confused before looking around, turning back to see her own reflection. "What the..." said Chloe before weaving her hands through her own hair and then lifting it up in front of her to see it matched her reflection. She moved her hands up and down her body, particularly over her curves before looking down to see if this was really happening.

Immediately, her stomach felt like it was being twisted, doubling up as her very essence began to change, her blood changing to that of a vampris dragon's, the scales spreading down and her shirt straining a bit more as her form changing more. Her backside bulged before a scaly tail came out. Her fingers sharpened into claws before the changes suddenly stopped. She had black scales on a large majority of her limbs, but her upper body was mostly uncovered.

She yelped before covering her chest, just in time as a pair of wings burst open, her shirt ruined. "Ok, find a shirt," she muttered over and over before a voice said "Why are you so ashamed of us?"

Chloe looked in the mirror to see a black dragoness with disk-like horns and a slight overbite looking at her. "You! You're the one behind this!" snapped Chloe.

"No, we both are. My people long mastered making...lifeboats for our souls, but the side effect is that our new mind will be influenced by the new host. This is us, not you, not me," said Likita.

"I am nobody's lifeboat. I already have one bad roommate so get out of me!" snapped Chloe.

Likita smiled and said, "I am not removed that easily. I already have a strong foothold in here. I can even influence you now." Just then, Chloe's hands, which were being used to cover her chest, started moving by themselves. They moved away from her chest, which already had a scale covering, and started massaging her ribs.

Chloe began to moan before managing to regain control. "No...no, no, no," she said, shaking her head, even as it extended into a draconic muzzle, the disc horns appearing painlessly.

"Oh, why bother fighting? This could be so much more...enjoyable. Your mate, Mr. Anderson, would certainly approve," said Likita's voice, Chloe managing to look up before moaning again, the reflection now showing a dragonian version of Chris hugging her from behind, the hallucination providing all the appropriate feelings.

"What...makes you think...I'm interesting in...him?" moaned Chloe, almost imagining Chris pressing into her.

"Oh, I know these feelings for him started budding since Ghoulwyrm's music box paired you two off. You've been aching for companionship as much as Firestar is. I stumbled across him the other night thinking he'd be just another meal. But the Avalarians have a lot more mass than the dragons that used to walk this earth. And I've had plenty of time to study him," said Likita. Likita in the reflection threw her head back as the hallucination Chris start nibbling at her neck before panting, "Just let me in..."

Chloe moaned loudly as she gave in to the pleasure. The rest of her clothes tore apart as her body fully shifted to dragonian form. Her hands were no longer trying to cover her body, but to massage it.

She shuddered once before her eyes opened, fully transformed and the new vampris dragoness, as yet unnamed, gave a happy sigh before turning as a knock was heard. Her sharpened nostrils soon picked up the scent of who was on the other side of the door. She licked her lips as she strutted towards the door. Her little fantasy was about to become reality.

...

"Chloe, you in there?" asked Chris, "Is your stomach feeling ok?"

"Oh...I feel so much better," said Chloe's voice from the other side, a strange tone to her voice.

"Uh, good. I was just wanting to check up on you. You and Firestar getting along ok?" asked Chris.

"Oh, Firestar's indisposed. Why not...come in and keep me warm?" said Chloe's voice.

Chris gulped and said, "Uh, thanks for the invite, but Matt would skin me alive if he picked up one suggestion of me being around you for the wrong reasons."

"Oh, I think I am capable of thinking for myself," said Chloe's voice, a husky tone to it.

Then Chris started to pick up a scent on the other side of the door. It was a dark musty scent started to excite him a little. He shook his head a little before opening the door...and immediately slamming it shut again. "Ok, I didn't just see a dragonian version of the commander's sister giving me the come hither from the bed," he said slowly, before slowly opening the door and slamming it shut again. "Ok, she's clearly drunk," he said, trying to do anything to put himself off.

"It's rude to linger at the doorway," called Chloe.

"I'm not coming in till you are sane or sober," called Chris.

"I haven't touched any liquids for a while. I'm rather thirsty actually. One moment please," said Chloe's voice before Chris heard the sound of a bottle opening, followed by several gulps which then ended with a little gasp and a sizeable burp. "Oops, excuse me," said Chloe.

Chris sighed before steeling himself and walking in...and being hit in the snout by a spell. Chris winced and stumbled. The legs he was walking on were started to feel weird as they adjust in length and his joints popped as they reconfigured back into a bipedal form, his front paws become hands against. His torso flattened out before it resumed a more humanoid form, detailing a lot of muscles. He also shrank in size a bit so that he could walk around without having his head constantly banging against the ceiling.

"Much better," said Chloe, her hand ceasing to glow and wearing a simple bra and pants, superfluous though they were with her scaly hide.

Chris shook his head to shake out the dizziness of the rapid shift in mass. "Thanks, I think," he said as he stood up. It took a moment before he realized that he ought to be wearing pants again. "Erm...I don't think..." he began before gulping as Chloe got off the bed before he remembered the training question Xaoc had supplied to everyone. "Erm...who are you?" he asked.

"You can call me, Silvia, handsome," said 'Chloe' in a sultry voice, getting off the bed and walking forward, swaying her hips.

"Nice to meet you. May I talk to Chloe or maybe Firestar?" asked Chris.

"Firestar is in her kennel, you don't have to worry about her," said Silvia, "Chloe has been reborn, made into a greater being than the self-denying girl she had been."

"That's nice...I need to find some pants..." said Chris, heading to check some drawers that looked old enough and hoping that Malefor hadn't bothered to empty them.

"Oh, no need to be embarrassed. If it'll make you feel better, I'll take off my pants too," said Silvia.

"No, no, not necessary," said Chris desperately, keeping his back to her.

"Something still seems uneven between us," said Silvia, having already discarded her pants. She looked Chris up and down, grinning at the sight of so many well-built muscles. "Ah, of course, I still have one piece of clothing on while you have none. Well, we better make this fair," said Silvia as she reached behind to unfasten her bra.

Chris yelped turning and grabbing her arms. "Nope!" he said desperately. But now he was trapped in a very compromising position. Silvia almost completely naked. Her bra had been unclasped and it was only Chris pinning her arms to her sides that kept it from falling off.

"I see that you're eager," said Silvia, noticing that Chris was straining to control himself.

"Listen, you, I have no interest in being barbequed by my commanding officer when he sees me holding his sister like this. Nor am I interested in having all my fluids sucked out once you're done with me," said Chris.

"Oh, I don't need to drain you dry. I mostly drink blood when I'm really hungry. I am capable of sustaining myself on other bodily fluids that aren't so vital," said Silvia before leaning forward and licking Chris.

Chris yelped at that. "You aren't sucking anything," he snapped as Silvia smiled.

"Anyway, why would I kill you?" she said in a husky voice.

"Uh, cause you're a vampire dragon," said Chris.

"Actually, the correct term is 'vampris dragon'," said Silvia, "We're much more than the bloodsucking creatures we're compared to. Allow me to show you."

Chris looked around desperate to find a way out, so he didn't notice when Silvia pulled an arm free and put a glowing gem in her mouth before she grabbed his head, pulling it back around and kissed him deeply, spitting the soul gem into his mouth before pushing him back against the wall, pinning his snout shut and rubbing his throat. "That's it...swallow," she said with a smirk.

Chris tried to gag it out, but he couldn't get his jaws open and his supply of air was starting to run low. Silvia's administration to his throat pushed the gem down lower until Chris would have to either choke or swallow and his reflexive instinct won out.

As soon as he swallowed, the soul gem went to work, releasing its captive and causing his scales to instantly darken, his horns twisting into a cruel sharpness and his own overbite becoming visible before his eyes flashed red. Silvia smirked, her Likita half remembering how males were always easier to use as new bodies for their kind before she noticed happily an eager look coming to his face. "Feeling better?" she said.

"Much better," said 'Chris' in a deeper more resonant tone. Silvia could feel Chris's body start to move against her.

Silvia smiled, shrugging her shoulders to let her bra fall off. "And who do I call my knight in shining armor? Come to rescue me from my horrible loneliness?" she said lustfully, pressing against him.

"Call me...Draconus..." said 'Chris'.

Silvia paused and said, "Really? 'Draconus' is the best you can come up with? You have to have a better imagination than that."

"Right now, my imagination is preoccupied with one thing and I really want to make it happen," said 'Chris', "How about we brainstorm a better name later?"

Draconus grinned, pushing Silvia onto the bed, causing her to give a surprised squeak. "You're right, my love. It can wait," she said.

...

It took a bit of flying before Matt, Spyro, and Megan found the lake that Malefor had gone to. It was actually a rather clean-looking lake, somehow not tainted by pollution or excessive grit. "Well, least he did one thing, cleaned the place up," said Matt, before noticing Malefor coming out the lake. "Hey, Mally!" he called.

"Ah, Blaze, here for a swim?" asked Malefor.

"Not Blaze," said Matt as Spyro walked forward, muttering "How do we do this?"

Megan thought for a second before saying, "We need him to be angry. Break the spell via that will he claims to have. It must already be fragile if she needed to recharge it every morning," she muttered back

"I'm just wondering how she managed to slap it on him in the first place," said Spyro.

"We can interrogate her later. First, we need to break her engagement enchantment," said Matt.

Malefor looked confused at that before he had to duck an earth flail from Spyro. "What was that for?" asked Malefor.

"Malefor, I can't believe you forgot me and Cynder. How we defeated you and the Destroyer," called Spyro, overdramatically

"Do tell us the tale," said Megan, "It ought to be a good one."

"He tried to destroy our world, but we stopped him. Really easily too. For all his boasting of being Avalar's greatest warrior, he got taken down by two teenagers who were magically tethered together," laughed Spyro.

Matt grinned. "Not to mention, that for all his magic, we keep wiping the floor with him," he said.

"One has to wonder how he's managed to crawl his way to our world," said Megan, "From I heard, he was put down hard. He shouldn't have had the strength to move at all, least of all to another world. It's probably only because of phenomenal bad luck on our side."

"Yeah, we found him fossilized in crystal, musta been brought over when our generators blew. He's dimensional rubbish," laughed Matt, Malefor snarling louder and louder.

"What's an even bigger wonder is how he's managed to keep an Empire running all these years," said Megan.

"Brainwashing, pure and simple," said Spyro, "He doesn't have the charisma to attract flies, let alone any followers unless their personalities have been overwritten."

Malefor seemed ready to snap before Matt put the final nail in the coffin, "Maybe he's not even a dragon?"

"I AM MORE OF A DRAGON THAN ALL THREE OF YOU PUT TOGETHER!" roared Malefor, the lake behind him actually boiling before shooting up as a geyser.

"That's the nutter I like to aim missiles at," said Matt happily before one of Malefor's own earth flails pancaked him. "I take it back," he rasped from under it.

Megan quickly reacted by hitting Malefor with an immobilizing spell, reinforced with shadow bindings. "I know you're angry with us, but there is someone who you should be angry with a lot more," said Megan.

Malefor tried to pull himself free before he collected himself. "Fine, I will hear you out," he said calmly.

"What's the last thing you can remember clearly before today?" asked Megan.

"Tiamat. The witch had been captured by my southern duke. She wanted to plead for mercy," said Malefor.

"Did she send you a peace offering before you met her?" asked Megan.

"Come to think of it, yes. A rather handsome dragon statue," said Malefor.

"Bingo. I've read enough fantasy to know where the original mind whammy was. Did the statue get damaged at any point?" asked Matt.

"I...believe so. I was having an argument with her and she got a bit forceful. That statue was broken during the scuffle," said Malefor.

"When was this?" asked Spyro.

"The day before yesterday if my sense of time isn't off," said Malefor.

"What were you two arguing about?" asked Megan.

"I was trying to tell her that I had the right to bed her before our-" started Malefor before he froze.

"That's some stroooong mind whammy," said Matt.

"It didn't just kick back in, did it?" asked Spyro.

"Oh, no, that spell's been broken. He's just reeling in shock right now," said Megan.

"By the Ancients…" said Malefor, looking green before running for the treeline.

"Poor guy, even I feel sorry for him," said Matt, Spyro and Megan nodding in agreement

"It could have been worse," said Megan.

"How so?" asked Spyro.

"Malefor could have won his argument," said Megan.

"Ok, now I need to puke. I drank way too much last night to get that specific image out of my head," said Matt.

Malefor came back at that before saying, "You have...potentially saved me and my Empire. For that...I am...I am..."

Matt teasingly said, "Say iiiiit."

Malefor made a choking sound that could passably sound like the word 'grateful'.

"Did anyone hear that? I think you need to speak clear-urk," said Matt before Malefor put an earth energy choke chain around his throat and tightened it.

Megan sighed. "Brought it on yourself," she said.

"So, can we safely say that the wedding's off?" asked Spyro.

"Yes, I'm afraid I have to kill my bride-to-be. You are welcome to join me. Consider this a 2-day truce," said Malefor darkly.

"I wonder how your ex-fiancé is doing," said Megan.

...

"Are you all IDIOTS? I did not want dragonsbayne bouquets!" Tiamat snapped at Kala who had an innocent smile.

"But they have such beautiful flowers," said Kala.

"They're also like poison ivy to dragons!" snapped Tiamat, looking at the mayhem before mentally trying to contact Likita. "You fool, get in here and help," she thought.

"Put it up your [UNREPEATABLE PHRASE], I'm busy!" snapped Likita's reply.

Tiamat paused, wondering how her telepathy had a censor before saying, "Get...in...here...now or I will put you back in your crystal via disembowelment."

"Call me back when you've got a threat you can actually carry out," said Likita. Tiamat glared at that before a telepathic dial tone caused her to gibber.

"You know, considering how many lands are influenced by this marriage, it would be more diplomatic to add a few wedding customs from their lands to this," said Contrinya.

"Such as?" snapped Tiamat.

"Well, in Russia, the bride gets earrings from her friends," said Contrinya before peering at Tiamat's earholes, "Hmm, this might be trickier, but I think we can manage. Shouldn't be that hard to pierce."

Tiamat went bugeyed at that and slammed her hands over her ears, which just caused her to yelp. "Nobody is piercing jack shit!" she snapped.

"You know, I think your wedding dress could use some alterations," said Mei-Lee, "You could do so much better than this."

Tiamat sighed. "Finally, normal input...and what is your suggestion, princess?" she asked.

"It's far too loose and poofy," said Mei-Lee, "A proper wedding dress should be tighter than this so the groom knows what he's getting. I mean, the waist on this could be so much tighter."

Tiamat's left eye twitched before she screamed, "IT DOESN'T GET ANY TIGHTER THEN THAT. WE'RE DRAGONS FOR GOD'S SAKE!"

"Nonsense. There's always ways to make a waist smaller," said Mei-Lee before throwing a belt around Tiamat's midsection and pulling extremely tight, "See? You're down 4 dress sizes easily."

"My...ribs...are...exploding..." rasped Tiamat, her eyes almost popping.

"Now about those feet. So large and unsightly. But I think we can squeeze them down into proper tiny shoes with a little breaking," said Mei-Lee.

"Ok, even I think that's too far," said Contrinya with disgust.

"Good point. Dragons don't wear shoes very well anyways," said Mei-Lee.

"Can't...breathe…" rasped Tiamat, turning blue as she tried to get her claws into the belt to loosen it.

"Well, if she's too preoccupied with the belt, she won't mind if I work on her ears," said Contrinya.

Tiamat glared and tried to rasp something, miming strangling something about Contrinya's height. "Ancient proverb: smart bird does not annoy already angry dragon," said Yanshi hurriedly, the trio running for it just as Tiamat reached breaking point.

Tiamat gave a furious roar that echoed as additional heads formed and shared their fury. "I have had ENOUGH!" she screamed, tearing the dress off as she shifted to full dragon. "You are all...IDIOTS!" she screamed, a little manically, giggling before a head said "Why not just eat them?"

"Yes, you could always use some more power," said another as it eyed the dragons.

A third head said "Erm...they've run away." Tiamat turning to see the double doors rocking back and forth. "Son of a-" she began.

...

"If she is anywhere, she will be in the main hall, planning for her big day," said Malefor calmly, a squad of human militia and dragonians with him and the others, to the rebels' discomfort.

"Why does it look more like we're about to level the place?" asked Megan with worry.

"Because that is the plan. This bitch manipulated me and mind controlled me to take my kingdom and probably yours too. She will die...simple as that," said Malefor coldly

"Well, yeah, but this is your home-" started Megan before Matt said, "Now, now, it's his land, he can do whatever he wants." He leaned in and muttered to her "Plus who are we to stop him blowing up his own house?"

Megan just shrugged and said, "As long as we're out of blast range."

Cynder however snapped, "What about the people under your floating fortress? Spyro, you can't agree with this. There are innocent humans underneath."

"Don't worry. I'm pretty sure this place will be gravel by the time it reached the ground," said Spyro.

"Pretty sure?" snapped Cynder, losing her temper slightly.

Just then, several elemental blasts shot out of the roof. "Actually, make that 'fairly sure'," said Spyro.

The others turned in shock before the rooms com beeped, the computer saying "Message for Lord Malefor from...Lady Tiamat."

"Put her through. I actually might want to hear this one," said Malefor with amusement.

Tiamat, back in her single-headed form and with a very forced smile, the sort people have before they grab a sniper rifle and look for high towers, said, "Darling...would it be too much trouble if I slaughtered the F.E.F. representatives and that damn firebird?" in a forced voice.

"Hmm...I was under the impression that firebirds can't be killed," said Malefor.

"I would love to try and disprove that myth." said Tiamat, looking on the verge of frustration-induced tears.

"Well, it would be a major international incident if I allowed the daughter of the Chinese Emperor to be killed by my fiancé," said Malefor, "Fortunately, I know a way to fix that dilemma."

Tiamat looked giddy at that before Malefor said flatly, "The wedding's off."

Tiamat's face froze before Matt said "Hold on...just a sec..." he said, before using the com systems keyboard to screenshot her expression. "Worth an extra day's truce if I send a copy?" Malefor nodding before Tiamat snapped "You're dumping me?"

"Well, considering both I and my Empire will be assimilated once we were wedded, (in my case, quite literally) I don't see this as a long-lasting relationship. Return Devina and any other of my officers you've absorbed or I shall demolish you," said Malefor.

Tiamat just stared before howling with laughter. "You must be kidding! I successfully assimilated you once if I believe, in a fair fight. If I wanted I could crush you," she managed.

"Why don't you put your power where your mouth is?" asked Malefor.

"With pleasure..." she said, holding up the statue.

"What's with the ugly knickknack?" asked Matt.

Malefor went wide-eyed, snapping "Cut the conn-" before he and Spyro and every other male dragon in the room got glowing green eyes.

"Now I'm seeing how she got the mind whammy going on in the first place," said Matt.

"Then how comes you aren't affected?" asked Megan.

"I've got a stronger mind?" suggested Matt.

"No, you just aren't in dragon form right now," said Tiamat flatly.

Matt paused before yelling "Opposable thumbs, master race!" Cynder facepalming

"Humans can be so embarrassingly stupid," groaned Cynder.

"Indeed," said Tiamat, "It makes me glad I'm not one anymore." After a minute, Tiamat said "Boys? Be so kind as to kill everyone in the room."

"Spyro's far stronger than that," said Cynder confidently.

"Erm...Cynder?" said Matt carefully, backing up, Cynder turning to see the male dragons and dragonians, with emerald green glowing eyes, slaughtering the human militia

"You know, this wouldn't be so one-sided if Malefor would allow some females in his army," said Cynder.

"He does. Avarona and Devina ring a bell? You?" snapped Matt, trying to open the door and swearing when he realized that Malefor had locked it for privacy. They had a minute tops before the others finished off the militia and turned on them.

"We need to destroy that statue," snapped Cynder.

"Good idea. Can you do that remotely?" asked Matt sarcastically.

"Will you two be quiet I'm trying to concentrate!" snapped Megan.

The male dragons all turned to growl or moan at them, slowly walking towards them. "Megan, blast the door," said Matt in a level tone

"Give me a second!" snapped Megan before she punched the door, runes flashing from the point of impact. The door quivered before crumbling into sand.

"LEG IT!" yelled Matt. The three of them quickly moved through the door as the dragons started coming after them. "Ok, how many other people are left that aren't male dragons?" asked Matt.

"That'd be Gary, Kala, Mei-Lee, Contrinya, and Striker," said Megan.

"And we have no idea where they are..." snapped Matt, turning round a corner and blasting two mind-controlled dragonians. "Megan, did that statue look invulnerable to you?" he asked,

"Well, it's obviously magical and magical items are usually giving an enforcing enchantment so they can't be smashed so easily," said Megan.

"I hope the others are closer to stopping Tiamat than we are," said Cynder. They paused when they saw Kala, Mei-Lee and Contrinya run by, a mind-controlled Yanshi right behind them.

"Er, there's still Gary and Striker," said Megan. Gary staggered back in his halfway form, glaring before revealing a mind-controlled Striker mindlessly gnawing on his stone foot.

"I thought that statue only worked on dragons," said Cynder.

"Apparently dinosaurs are close enough," said Matt.

Megan said, "Look...we need to find Malefor's library. He might have something we can use to knock the spell out without destroying the statue... I think. We could use it to stop Malefor without a shot being fired."

"A risky plan, but I think we'll have to take it," said Matt.

...

Tiamat ginned smugly as she checked several books, Silvia glaring at her. "Did you have to affect every male dragon in the palace?" she growled.

"Well, if you were still working for me, I might have let him finish what you two were doing," sneered Tiamat, adding with a growl "But you had to betray me."

"Oh, so not being at your every beck and call is considered betrayal," said Silvia sarcastically.

"No, hanging up on me so you can get snoo-snoo is," snapped Tiamat.

"Don't knock it until you try it," said Silvia.

"I did try it and I got an egg from it," snapped Tiamat.

Silvia shuddered and said, "I'm never going to let that happen to me."

"Enough! Your host's brother, he escaped from my thralls. What will his next move be?" snapped Tiamat.

"Finding a way to take you down," said Silvia.

"Which means he will want my statue..." said Tiamat thoughtfully.

"Naturally," said Silvia.

"Then we should make sure they feel welcome. Let them get to me. It's not like they can stop me," sneered Tiamat.

...

The library wasn't so hard to find, but finding the right book was. "Who'd have thought Malefor had so many books of magic?" said Megan as she looked over the various volumes.

"I suppose he'd want to make sure no one else would have an advantage over him," said Cynder.

"Can you two hurry it up?" called Matt. Since he couldn't read dragon language, he was guarding the entrance.

"This takes time," called Megan.

Matt glared as he peered through the doorway. "Just keep looking. We're on the clock here," he said.

"Isn't there any way to narrow it down?" asked Cynder with frustration.

"Yeah, try ignoring the obvious categories. I doubt it'll be under A. Try the 'for dummies' section," called Matt.

"Don't be an idiot! There's no way they'd put that kind of spell in a... Huh, what do you know? Ok...let's see..." Megan muttered before saying in surprise, "Apparently it was made by a spurned sorceress..."

"That would explain a lot," said Matt.

"Ok...says here the spell can be broke by just smashing the statue," Megan said cheerfully, before saying, "Cool, she even made some spell called the Rule 63. I wonder if it does what I think it does."

"If it's as simple as smashing it, why did we bother having to research it?" snapped Matt.

"Because it can affect the corruptible badly. We need to snap Spyro out of it...fast," said Megan desperately before the doors were blown open, tossing Matt forward. A green-eyed Spyro and Malefor, Spyro looking slightly larger than before, walked in alongside Tiamat and a pair of unknown dragons, who were holding the statue.

"Ah, the leader of the Human Coalition," said Tiamat, "I've been wanting to have a discussion with you regarding the state of your nation."

"Business hours are 9 to 5," said Matt dizzily.

"You know, I tried so hard to help out your people, but you could never see it my way, not even while I was still human," said Tiamat, "But over time, I came to realize that was the problem. Humans are simply too set in their ways, too unbendable. We've been fighting the tide of evolution for too long."

Matt said dizzily, "Is that you, Santa? You sound different."

Tiamat snapped, "I AM NOT SANTA!"

"If you're considering assimilating him, I strongly suggest against it," said the dragoness, "He'll have a heavy negative impact on your mental health."

"No, but he might have other uses. Hold him up," snapped Tiamat to the dragoness, adding "And get him emotionally stressed,"

"Easily done," said the dragoness smugly as the purple dragons held up Matt. The dragoness approached Matt, shifting to an anthro form as she got near him. "Hello, dear brother," she said coyly.

Matt went bug-eyed, the dragoness frowning, tapping him before saying "Erm...I think his heart's stopped."

"Oh, he's just faking it," said Tiamat.

The dragoness put her head against Matt's chest before saying with concern, "I don't hear a heartbeat."

"What? I wanted him captured, not dead!" yelped Tiamat, "Quick, get him pumping again!"

"I don't know CPR. I suck blood, not get it flowing," snapped Silvia, Tiamat screaming and spitting a thunderbolt at Matt.

Matt jerked a bit before letting out a big gasp. He said dizzily "Aunty Em? I had the weirdest dream...and you were there...and you...and you..." before Tiamat glared and hit him on the head.

"Silvia, get to work on his emotional stress already," said Tiamat.

"I think he's stressed enough," muttered Silvia, Tiamat glaring and sending a beam of Third Energy at Matt.

Pretty soon, red scales started forming across Matt's body. "You're probably right, absorbing probably would be bad for me," said Tiamat as Matt became more draconic, "But he'll still be useful as an obedient servant."

Silvia stepped back as the full-size Avalarian fell onto all fours with a crash, before glaring at Tiamat and starting to take in a breath. However, the other dragon held up the statue and Matt's expression froze as his eyes started to glow green.

"Very good, darling. Now then, where are your friends?" said Tiamat sweetly, running a claw under the mesmerized Matt's snout.

Meanwhile, Megan gulped, the group hiding in a nearby stack. "Megan, he's going to give us away," snapped Mei-Lee.

"If only we could snap him out of it," muttered Megan.

"Unfortunately, that statue has a very solid grasp on every male dragon it is shown to," said Cynder.

"Male dragon, hmm... I think I know a loophole," said Megan.

Cynder hissed, "Like what..."

"It'll only work on him if he's a male dragon," said Megan.

"You don't have the power to undo that Third Energy," said Mei-Lee.

"No, but that's not the only requisite," said Megan.

Kala looked a bit shocked. "You wouldn't," she said.

Cynder, who was peering out, said urgently, "He's leading them this way. Do it."

"Don't worry. I'd never do something I'm very certain I can undo," said Megan before she quickly started reading from the book.

A glowing pink orb appeared before saying in a sultry voice, "Who is the male who wronged you?"

"Er, he didn't wrong me. Well, unless you count being too strict and not allowing me to do advanced magic stuff like building my own tower," said Megan.

"Wait...you summon a spirit of vengeance and the target has done nothing wrong? Urgh, if this is some modern wiccan crap..." muttered the orb before Mei-Lee growled at it. "Ok...ok...I still need the name," said the orb.

"Matthew Lynch," said Megan, "Right over there, the fire drake, can't miss him."

"As you wish. I hope she enjoys her new life," said the orb, Megan saying "Pardon?" before the orb shot out.

"Uh, who did you just summon?" asked Kala.

"Uh, just a second," said Megan as she read the page again. However, Kala just read what it said at the bottom, "Invocation of Ma'at, goddess of justice, to punish men who wrong women by permanently turning them into women?"

"Guess I should have read it all the way through," said Megan sheepishly. Kala couldn't scream with rage or she'd give their position away. But that didn't stop her from trying to strangle Megan.

The orb, meanwhile, had appeared in front of the surprised Tiamat. "The hell? Are we under attack by Tinkerbelle?"

"Tinkerbelle? Of all the nerve!" snapped the orb before blasting Tiamat with a bolt of energy that actually sent Tiamat flying. "Ok, straight to work," said the orb as it orbited Matt's head, "Hmm... I do sense guilt in this one. I suppose I'll be avenging someone after all." With that, it flew straight into Matt's chest and spread throughout his body.

Silvia looked a bit shocked as Matt's body got encompassed in the same energy before he began to change. His body became considerably slimmer as it lost what would have been an unhealthy amount of mass. And yet, his build did not look emaciated, rather it looked feminine. His snout also thinned to become more beaklike, his horns shrinking slightly before finally his eyes lost the green glow and he shook his head. "Uh...wha?" he said in a higher-pitched voice.

"Ok, we're leaving," said Mei-Lee, "Someone point Matt in the right direction."

Matt was glaring at Tiamat and the others though, only for them to start chuckling "What? What's so funny?" asked Matt.

Tiamat managed, "I don't care...that my statue won't work...anymore...if only for this..." before she noticed a fireball forming. "Oh poo," she muttered. The fireball hit her, but only made her stagger and blink. When she cleared her vision, Matt was already gone. "Find them!" she yelled.

Silvia however said "Erm...Tiamat..." pointing to the statue...or the molten rock it was melting into.

"No, no, no!" yelled Tiamat as she tried to use her stolen earth powers to repair the statue. However, a growl was heard at that, Tiamat turning in horror to see Spyro and Malefor snapping out of it. "It looks like we'll have to cut our losses," growled Tiamat, "I'm afraid I'm needed in my own kingdom, darling."

Malefor laughed and said, "You have no real kingdom or subjects. You're nothing but a golddigger that plays with magic she barely understands."

"How dare you?" snarled Tiamat.

"I dare because this is my kingdom and I have more power than a mosquito like you could ever amass on your own," said Malefor.

Tiamat roared...just before two beams of convexity sent her rocketing through the wall.

"Now, I need to start getting my house back into order," said Malefor before turning towards Spyro, who looked larger than he had last seen him. There was also a quite fetching-looking fire dragoness glaring out the hole. "You MUPPET! That was my sister you just Team Rocketed," she snapped, Malefor pausing.

The fire dragoness had a familiar look to her, like a relative of someone he knew. In fact, she looked like the female counterpart of... Malefor suddenly had a very queasy feeling in his stomach. He was in need of the iciest shower he could tolerate as well as a lot of alcohol.

"Urgh...what dark magic..." he said before physically shuddering with his eyes closed before looking over to see Spyro and for a second, while still panicking, thought "Am I shrinking?"

Wanting this matter over quickly, he said rapidly, "Commander Lynch, for services rendered onto me in assistance of removing a usurper from my realm, I grant you leave to return to your own lands unharmed. Please depart before I change my mind."

The dragoness glared before she said, "Fine, Spyro, girls, pick out any of our boys who are brain scrambled and let's get out of here."

"Uh, sure," said Cynder.

The dragoness nodded, Megan muttering in Cynder's ear, "Self-denial. We hide all the mirrors when we get home." as the fire dragoness said to Spyro. "Spyro, come on."

"Actually, I don't feel like coming home right now," said Spyro in a rather self-important tone, "I feel like taking a vacation."

"Fine, I'll post you in the F.A.F for a few weeks. Vacations don't take place in the enemy camp unless you're a spy," said the dragoness bluntly.

"I don't need you to pick out where I go. Nor do I need your permission to go whenever I choose," said Spyro.

"Yeaaaah, Megan. Restrain him and you get your tower in the old TV tower in downtown," said the dragoness bluntly.

Spyro glared at Megan who shrugged and said, "Sorry, Spyro, that's an offer I can't resist. Besides, it's probably for your own good." With a gesture from her four hands, she caused shadow chains to wrap themselves around Spyro tightly.

Spyro glared before sending a wave of convexity out, shattering the chains. Malefor just stared in surprise, before his brain caught up with the situation and he smirked, before roaring "GUARDS!"

"Hey, you said we could leave unharmed," said Mei-Lee.

"I also told you to leave before I change my mind," said Malefor.

"Isn't it good I never trusted you? Remember what I said about spies?" said the dragoness sweetly, before the room shook, Malefor spinning to see several explosions.

"My room," he said in a sad voice, adding, "Really? There's a perfectly good guard barracks the floor down."

"It'll save you having to clean out Tiamat's stench in there," said the dragoness, "Megan, we still need to leave. Your new tower depends on it."

"Ok, just a sec, I think this one will work," said Megan before casting her hands out, the shadows darkening beneath the group before they started to literally sink into them.

Spyro glared, lifting off and out of range as the others sank down, Cynder looking horrified as she vanished. She'd already started to see the resemblance.

...

The shadow portal wasn't perfect. Going through it was unpleasant enough to not be described, they only got as far as the Coalition's side of the border, and it left Megan completely drained when they emerged.

"I...think...I'm gonna...hurl," managed Kala before staggering into the bushes, the others in a similar state, just Megan and Cynder looking more or less well.

"I guess you really do have shadow dragon powers," said Cynder.

"Yeah...but they're...not built up...nearly...enough..." panted Megan.

"That...thing was my sister," muttered the fire dragoness, starting to shrink down to human form.

"I'm sorry, Matt. I thought we had more time to help her," said Kala.

"That's f...what...the...hell..." said Matt, looking down at her chest before screaming "MEGAN!"

Megan tried to move away, but the portal left her too drained to even stand up. "Cynder...I'll give you a room...at my tower...if you help me flee," she desperately.

"Sorry, girl, you're on your own with this one," said Cynder with some amusement.

Matt glared, grabbing Megan by the shoulders and lifting her to eye level. "You...will...now...explain," she snapped, before seeing her reflection in ice patch.

The first glance made it seem like she was merely a copy of Chloe. But a better look showed that she was more like an extra-feminized version of Chloe. Her black hair went all the way down to her ass and framed a quite strikingly-beautiful face. Not even her army uniform could hide her figure. In fact, it strained a bit against her wide hips, shapely thighs, and possibly the biggest rack she's ever seen on a human woman. The only places where it was loose being her arms, waist, and lower legs.

"Megan...you're gonna die...unless you can FIX THIS!" Matt screamed.

"Well, there's actually a funny story about that," said Megan with a nervous chuckle, "You see, I didn't read the whole page before I said that spell so I didn't see the part about the curse being permanent."

Matt stared, her eye twitching. "Now...I must have blocked ears cause I could have sworn you said PERMANENT!" she said, screaming.

"Well, it's a curse meant to avenge the women you've wronged," said Megan.

"What...women?" snapped Matt darkly, her eyes literally catching fire.

"Uh...well, you have to had wrong someone for it to take effect," said Megan.

"The only women I've wronged...are the villainesses who CLEARLY DESERVE IT!" snapped Matt, shaking Megan.

Gary sighed and walked forward, Striker still gnawing his leg, apparently he was enjoying it. "Now then, cheries..." before Matt turned and snarled, Gary pausing and saying "Erm...carry on." before walking off to find a branch to try and pry Striker off.

"Megan, you are going to devote every waking second of figuring out how to undo this curse or I'll chain you up and throw you from the top of your tower!" snapped Matt.

"Shouldn't saving Spyro and Chloe take precedence?" asked Cynder.

"I want my Y chromosome back," snapped Matt.

"Just wait until your emotions take the hormonal rollercoaster," said Mei-Lee dryly.

Matt span to face Mei-Lee angrily. "Why you little-" she said before hearing a wolf whistle, turning to see a patrol team before she glared and pulled out her side arm, shooting the offender in the kneecap. "Anyone else?" she snapped.

Fortunately, Yanshi was able to change the topic with a well-needed observation, "Where's Chris?"

Matt paused at that. "That's a good question," she said thoughtfully before half a dozen guns were shoved in her face.

...

"What do you mean you don't want eggs?" snapped the vampris dragon who was formerly Chris but now was going by the name 'Vanis'.

"I just got this body and I don't want to ruin it by laying dozens of eggs," said Silvia.

"Silvia, we're the last members of our kind. We have to have eggs," snapped Vanis.

"And lose this?" snapped Silvia, pointing to her figure, Vanis facepalming.

"Well, how long do these hosts last?" he said through his palm

"Well, these 'dragonians' seem to have an extended lifespan. Might not be as long as a pure dragon's, but considerably longer than a human's," said Silvia.

"We still need to continue the species, my love...and it will be very fun," said Vanis in her ear, rubbing her chest a little before she pushed him away.

"I said no. But you do have a point."

"Of course I do. No sense in letting a little vanity-" started Vanis before Silvia clamped his muzzle shut.

"Your body isn't the one taking on the burden," she said flatly, "I'm the one who gets to decide where she lays eggs or not."

"So...do you have a plan, my beauty?" said Vanis.

Silvia thought before saying, "Some of our brethren did try to start a colony across the Mediterranean, but we aren't headed..."

"We are headed that way!" snapped Tiamat.

"But that's too far away from your volcano," said Silvia, "You'll lose your power."

"I'm not just a firebird!" snapped Tiamat, "Besides, there are plenty of volcanos over there. There's no rule against moving."

"It's Africa..." said Silvia after seeing where she pointed on the map.

Tiamat snapped, "I don't care. There's a huge source of magic there and I want it before I deal with Malefor."

"It might be a good idea to move out of Russia anyways," said Vanis, "Otherwise, we'll have to deal with your brother knocking on the door every day."

"He is not my brother anymore. Not after that spell," said Silvia with a knowing grin.

"Yes, I'm sure she's enjoying her new form," said Vanis with a wide grin. The two just laughed together at that.

...

Malefor looked a bit surprised, looking at the report from General Shard. "He wants to see you," said Shard calmly

"Not that you are incapable of defeating him, but now may be a bad time to allow him in with your house in such disarray," said Ghoulwyrm.

"Why should I be taking council from one who plotted to overthrow me?" growled Malefor.

"As I explained, I was among the first that Tiamat placed under her control after her arrival," said Ghoulwyrm.

General Shard snorted and said, "I can actually believe that. After his long state of living death, he's probably more open to the suggestions of females than most. Not like he had any more luck with them then than in this current age."

Ghoulwyrm gave Shard a reproachful look and said, "That's a low blow, even for you."

Shard just smirked before continuing, "We have examined him. He appears to be...receptive to your point of view..."

"I was wondering how long it would take for him to realize the true order of things," said Malefor.

"To that end, as much as I hate to agree with the corpse, he may have a partial point. We have no guarantee that this is permanent," said Shard.

"Then we'll make sure to cement this," said Malefor.

"How so?" asked General Shard.

"Obviously we can't brainwash him, but we need to convince him this is the right choice. To that end, you will treat him with the same respect you afford me. Am...I...clear?" said Malefor darkly.

"But we have no room grand enough to house him," said Ghoulwyrm, "Not even yours right now."

"Are you a sorcerer or not? MAKE ONE!" snapped Malefor, Ghoulwyrm's head igniting from the energy.

"Ok, this is not helping our working relationsh-" he began before Malefor tail whipped him out the window.

Shard chuckled until Malefor turned on him and snapped, "You, why are you not rebuilding my palace?"

"Well, I am needed at-" started Shard.

"I don't care. Get to work on it or I shall have you ground up and used for the mortar!" snapped Malefor.

"That wouldn't work very we-" began Shard before a second whip sent him following Ghoulwyrm, landing on top of said lich just as he was getting up.

"Ever thought of alternative employment?" he rasped from underneath Shard.

"I'd like to be a shepherd and have a flock of cute little sheep," said Shard in a tone that showed that he was clearly delusional right now.

"That's nice...which way are the sheepies? I wanna pet the sheepies," said Ghoulwyrm dizzily.

...

Naturally, there was only one place that was suitable for receiving such an important guest: the throne room. Admittedly, the throne room was a little on the trashed side, but it will have to do for right now.

Malefor had settled down as the door opened and two crimson-scaled fire dragons in black armor came in, flanking...Malefor paused, before smirking. Spyro, while his scales were his usual darker purple, looked like Malefor's near spitting image, even down to the amber eyes.

"Spyro, I can see you've had a change of heart," said Malefor.

"I've also seen how dragons are treated behind the wall. I would have thought the commander would be more...equal to our kind given he has our blood now. But no, I had to fight and threaten just to get a few small equalities," growled Spyro.

"And they call us the cold-blooded ones," said Malefor.

"I wouldn't call them that. Just...misguided. I actually have read some of the legends about our people on this world. If they were real, our earthly cousins were hardly civilized," said Spyro calmly.

"I've ready many of those legends myself," said Malefor, "The dragons of this realm were little more than beasts. Perhaps it is just as well they went extinct as they would undermine everything we would try to establish."

"Huh...that is no excuse for the humans' actions though. They should be honoured..." muttered Spyro darkly, his eyes glowing yellow as they got harder...colder.

"They should be enlightened," said Malefor with a cold smile.

"Luckily, the dragons there respect me," said Spyro in a smug tone.

"Good, though you may wish to consider your body image," said Malefor, "Commoners are known to find my appearance intimidating."

Spyro smirked. "Leaders should be intimidating..." he said smugly, the light behind him making it that only his yellow eyes were visible.

Welp...thats not good. Tune in next time.