Chapter 45

It was a nice calm afternoon, there were some clouds in the sky but not enough to block out the sun as it shinned down upon Baron and I. We were both seated on the front of a wagon, Baron having the reins to the two horses pulling it along as I sat beside him. My outfit was a bit different than before; I had some nice handmade robes from the cheetah village and fitted with somewhat worn and beaten leather armor. I had my sword at my side, my bow at my back, and a big Minotaur next to me. Said Minotaur was wearing royal, gold painted iron armor built by the dragon themselves with his trusty axe slung around his back.

Baron looked down at me, a smile stretched across his face. "Finally headed back home after a two weeks crusade!"

I rolled my eyes. "We just went to go take back some of the mole lands from leftover grublins Baron, wasn't much of a crusade."

He put an arm around my shoulder. "Bah, it was still a glorious battle with you and I side by side purging the grublins and freeing those who were still left under Malefor's dark curse!"

I frowned, raising an eyebrow. "Most of them surrendered when we showed up, we only bopped like four of five of em."

He grinned, patting me on the shoulder before bringing his hand back to grab the reins again. "That's because they know our prowess was too great!"

I shook my head, feeling a smile creep across my face.

'Classic Baron…'

'His optimism gets a bit annoying sometimes…' Psy groaned.

'What did we say about lightening up Psychotic?' Sane asked.

'I'm not saying we should shut him up, just pointing out something.'

'Lay off him Sane, he's been doing good for the passed few months.'

'He still needs some improvement,' Con remarked.

'And you need to work on your arrogance,'

'Hey! I only got us into one fight last week!'

I chuckled a bit and leaned back and thinking over all that happened over the six months since Malefor's defeat. I had gone back to the dragon city with Volteer, it was a bittersweet sight to see everyone celebrating the end of the Dark Lord's reign, since with their freedom came the price of those who fell during the fight.

I felt a twinge of sadness as I thought of Ignitus. His death had the biggest impact, the guardians mourned for so long, and there were countless festivals in his honor. I was given many weary and hostile looks during the festival I attended. I only decided to join said festivale due to how much Ignitus had actually helped me during my time in this world, I at least owed him that much. When the funeral happened it was, well, sad. Spyro and Cynder were still missing at that time, some thought they had died and others thought they had fled, but I knew they were alive, and they were happy wherever they were.

I also found out a very hard truth the first month. I couldn't return to my home world. The temples that told of my purpose, and might have told how to get me home, had all been destroyed during the near death of the realm. And no matter how many books or scrolls the Guardians and I went through, we couldn't turn up anything on how to get me home. It hurt, it hurt a lot, and I was shut in for a while after that. However, I had too many friends to forced me to get out in the world, too many beings who cared for me. Ember, the cheetah sisters, Volteer, Segregoth and Emerald, and Baron of course. It was Baron who got me out, he started to train me how to fight, literally dragging me out to the fields to do so some days. He taught me how to fight, and took me along on a lot of journeys to defeat grublins. Without this overgorwn bull, I might have been cooped up to this day.

I glanced up at Baron with a smile. "We're stopping by the cheetah village before heading to the Dragon City right?"

Baron nodded. "Yep, I've got a couple of goods I think they'd like, plus we're bound to get a hero's welcome!" he then waggled his eyebrows. "All of the cheetah ladies will be aiming to get a piece of yah!"

I shook my head, a stinging pain hitting my heart. "I don't know if I'd wanna go for that after what happened with Shelia…"

Baron pat me on the back. "Aw come on Shorty, you gotta get back into the game if you wanna feel better!"

I gave him a look of annoyance. "It's only been a couple weeks Baron."

He patted me on the shoulder again. "The sooner the better!"

'Maybe he's right?' Sane spoke up.

'Or maybe we could just take a break from it for now…' Psy groaned.

'I dunno man, would it hurt to take a look at some cheetah ass?'

My shoulders slumped as I scowled. 'I hate you.'

The ride continued, Baron whistling a cheery tune as he cracked the reins every now and then. A thought soon popped into my head as I glanced over at the Minotaur.

"So I heard you're working on a book?" I asked.

Baron shook his head, grinning. "Nah, a book couldn't ever represent our glorious adventures!"

I chuckled. "Right – so what is it then?"

Baron smirked. "Ever since you told me about this odd "video game" thing where the story of Spyro and Cynder was told, I got to thinking. Why wasn't I in that story? Surely I made quite an impact in that war?"

I shrugged. "Well not a lot of people were in that story that were actually in the war."

Baron waved off my response. "Regardless, I got the glorious idea of making a game based off our travels! A board game of sorts where you can play as the mighty Baron and his sidekick, Seph!"

I raised an eyebrow. "Seph?"

"Didn't know if you wanted your real name to be in there."

"With how I think you're gonna tell this story, no I don't."

"Oh don't be like that shorty!" he patted my shoulder again. "I won't sell yah short!"

"Right – I never figured you to be the board game making type."

"I'm not just a bull who swings and axe around there shorty, I got a creative brain up here!"

"I'm surprised that brain isn't all mush after how many times you slammed your head into grublins."

Baron let out a loud, hearty laugh as he slapped my back. Normally I'd be surprised at such a blow, but after being with Baron on adventures for so long, I learned to shrug it off.

Soon, the cheetah village came into view, and I felt a twinge of sadness in my heart at the sight. I remembered the month that I stayed in the village to help with repairs and fight off a couple of Malefor's shattered forces. During that month I ended spending a lot of time with the cheetah sisters in their village. It seemed Relia was still recovering from the war along with Shelia, but Telia was just trying to get back into the swing of things as they all rebuilt the village. I was enjoying their company a lot, even with Telia's jabs here and there. But well – something else happened that month.

Shelia and I kissed.

I dunno how it happened, we were just kinda sitting by the river one night, talking about stuff. We talked about ourselves, what was happening around us, the previous war, and then… well, we began to realize how much we liked each other. Before I knew she and I leaned in for a soft kiss. It was a nice and tender moment, besides Sane saying "FINALLY".

We started a relationship after that, it was a bit rocky at first, and Relia seemed to show jealousy, but she got over it within the month. However, the relationship didn't last.

Baron and I were greeted with waves and a couple cheers as we were allowed passed the walls and into the cheetah village. I waved at a couple cheetahs as they came up, with a few actually looking my way and waving back. I was a bit surprised, I honestly thought most of them were just cheering for Baron as they usually do. But some were actually calling out my name, even if most were talking about Baron.

'Look at that, we have a fanbase,' Con spoke up.

'Here we go…' Psy groaned.

'What's wrong with liking some appreciation?'

'We don't need your massive ego to get any larger.'

'Says you!'

"Yet another heroic return!" Baron said, interrupting my thoughts as he cracked another grin.

I rolled my eyes, but smiled, having gotten used to Baron's arrogance by now.

'As if you're one to talk,' Sane remarked.

'I'm gonna blame the other two for my cockiness.'

'That just means you're blaming yourself again.'

I sighed, trying to ignore him as the cart pulled into town. Baron hopped down and greeted all of the cheetahs as most of them began to swarm him and bombard him with questions. I had a few cheetahs come up to me too, asking me about the war and giving me a bit of praise. I was a bit flustered at this, and was about to speak, before a voice pierced through the commotion.

"Seth," the stern voice of Relia spoke.

I turned to see her standing a couple feet away, the crowd parting for her. My eyes widened in surprise; a bit shocked to see her.

"Relia?"

She raised her chin up and I saw there was a large gash on her cheek, one that was in the process of healing. "It's been some time."

I took a couple steps forward, in a bit of shock. "Where have you been?"

Relia had disappeared about two months prior without a word or even a warning. No one knew where she went nor why, the village and especially her sisters were worried sick about her. Chief Prowlus had sent multiple search parties, but they turned up nothing. But now here she was, standing in front of me, her eyes stern and her figure straight. Though there was a bit of warmness on her face, her ear flicking lightly.

"May we speak in private?" she asked.

'Ooooooooo…' Sane spoke up, but I ignored him.

"Of course, yeah," I replied.

She nodded, before she turned and lead me through the village, most of the cheetahs parting as we walked by, though some gave me some friendly gestures and smiles. I did my best to nod and wave at them, still not fully used to the fame and admiration some of the beings had for me. Relia led me into the tent where all three of the sisters had taken up residence in since the end of the war. I entered, seeing Relia sit down on a pile of furs as she gestured for me to sit across from her. I did so, sitting down and tilted my head, waiting for her to speak.

She looked away at first. "I am sorry I disappeared without a word Seth, I made a rather rash decision that night."

"Where did you go?"

The cheetah let out a long sigh, before turning back to me. "I traveled back to the ring of fire, to fight the remaining grublins and dragons left there under Malefor's control."

My eyes widened in surprise. "What? Baron and I haven't even managed to clear out all of the grublins left there! Even the dragon armies couldn't be rid of them!"

She nodded, her gaze shifting away from mine. "I know, but I felt so much rage and pain after the war," her gaze hit the floor. "I had been turned to Malefor's side, I had let him control me… even if it was for a second," she looked back up at me. "If you hadn't been there, how long would I have stayed under his influence? How many beings would I have hurt? All of those questions kept swimming through my head, and I felt like I had to do something to try and make things right. I had to prove to myself that I would never fall under the influence of darkness again. So, I went to finish off some of Malefor's forces, to show myself that I was not on his side nor would I ever be. They didn't expect a lone attacker, so I was able to pick some off." She shut her eyes for a moment. "But then – I fought some of the dragons. Many had fled before I could deal the final blow, but I managed to ground one and trap him in a cave." She gestured to the gash over her eye. "He gave me this wound in his fight. I was so full of rage, my hatred for dragons took control. I saw the crystal around his neck but I ignored it, thinking he'd still be with Malefor even if I somehow got rid of the crystal." She opened her eyes again, having a somber and hollow look on her face. "But, as I readied my blade and prepared to cut his throat, I saw his eyes. They were full of fear and terror, seemingly begging me for mercy without a word. I didn't see any malice, nor need for bloodshed, just the eyes of a scared being whose life was about to be taken. I realized what I was doing, that I was no better than Malefor's forces if I slayed those who could be brought back from the darkness. I let the dragon go… and came back here after all of that…"

I was somewhat dumbfounded by her words, blinking a couple times. I looked her over, seeing her sunken expression and slumped demeanor. I felt a twinge of sadness as I brought my hand up and gently placed it on her shoulder, making her flinch.

"I'm sorry Relia…" I said softly.

She shook her head. "Don't be – I feel it was a journey that I needed to take," she looked back up at me. "I'm just glad its over now."

I frowned, patting her on the shoulder with a sad smile. She smiled in return as she looked down, and I could see her body easing up a bit. Suddenly, the entrance to the tent opened behind Relia, and Shelia walked inside. Her eyes widened as she spotted me and her sister, and I quickly took my hand off Relia's shoulder. Shelia stood up straight as she cleared her throat.

"Oh, Seth! You're back," she said as she placed down a basket full of things on the ground. "Am I interrupting something?"

I opened my mouth to speak, but Relia beat me to it as she stood up.

"No, I was just telling him where I've been," she turned her head to me, the soft smile still on her face. "Thank you Seth."

I nodded to her, a bit confused, but I still smiled in return. She nodded back, before she exited the tent, leaving me and Shelia together in silence. I glanced at Shelia, our eyes met for a moment, before we both turned away. It was an awkward atmosphere, neither of us really wanting to be the first to speak, but I decided to bite the bullet. I cleared my throat and looked up at her again.

"Hey Shelia…" I said softly.

'Great conversation starters as per the usual,' Sane remarked.

I was about to retort, but Shelia spoke up soon after.

"Look Seth…" her eyes met mine and I saw sadness in them. "I'm sorry-"

I raised a hand to stop her. "No Shelia, we both kinda figured out it wouldn't work together okay? We need to stop saying sorry to each other."

She chuckled lightly as her gaze hit the floor once again. "I know – its just, I hated seeing you so hurt."

I sighed and shook my head. "I know – but I'm – getting over it okay? How have you been coping?"

Her head hung low. "I've been coping okay – but – look Seth – I um… I've been talking with Narran and… um…"

I sighed again, looking away, feeling a sting in my chest. "So you two finally got together huh?"

"Seth I'm sorry! I didn't mean-"

"Shelia, its fine okay? We're not together anymore so you can see whoever you want to see."

Shela's head hung low as she sighed. "I still feel like I betrayed you somehow."

"Well you weren't seeing him while we were together right?"

"Of course not!"

"Then you didn't betray me."

"I just – I'm sorry…"

I placed a hand on her shoulder, smiling at her as she kept her gaze down. "Its okay Shelia, I don't want you to feel worse about the situation just because of me. Yes, it does hurt, I can't deny that, but it doesn't mean you should feel bad about it."

She glanced up at me with a sorrowful look. "I'll always worry about you, you know?"

I nodded. "I know…"

There was a moment of silence after that, until Shelia gave me a small smile.

"How did the expedition with Baron go?"

I sighed. "Well, it was pretty short if you couldn't tell, only really took us a day to deal with those remnants of troops."

She chuckled in response. "Yeah, I thought so, doesn't seem like there's many of them left in the realm to put up much of a fight now huh?"

"Thankfully yes, we got rid of most of them in the first few months, now it's really just cleaning up the rest."

Shelia looked down, still smiling. "Hm, well the guardians will probably want to hear of your progress. I need to get back to the medical tent anyways."

I perked up at that. "How are you and Emerald doing on that anyways? I heard you picked up some healing spells."

She stood up and nodded. "I have yeah, and we're both just working on a patient who had a bad run in with a wolf, he's recovering well, and Emerald has really improved her craft over the past couple of months."

"I'll say, she fixed me up pretty good that one time I got wailed on by a dragon."

"Just don't go trying to wrestle one to the ground again and hopefully you won't have to go back to her for a while."

I sighed but nodded, standing up alongside her. The both of us then exited the tent and I spotted Baron putting a couple of supplies up on the cart, still being followed by a lot of cheetahs who seemed to be bombarding him with questions. I was about to walk over to him, before a familiar voice stopped me.

"What? Just gonna leave without saying hello to me?"

I sighed and turned to see Telia, a smirk on her face as she leaned up against one of the posts on the tent. I gave her a small wave and a smile.

"Hello Telia… happy now?" I said as I grinned.

She rolled her eyes. "I guess so, but next time say hi if you're gonna go have "private time" with my sisters."

I sighed again. "I'll be sure to do that, just don't try peeking in to see if there's "any action" going on eh?"

She blinked in surprise at my statement, before her smirk returned. "I've taught you well…"

I raised an eyebrow. "What are you? The master of sexual innuendos?"

"Yep, come get some private time with me if you wanna see some other tricks I've mastered too..."

"Telia!" Shelia piped up, and I could see a bit of red on her cheeks.

Telia raised up a paw. "Sis I'm kidding!"

Shelia muttered something under her breath as she turned away, crossing her arms.

I chuckled again. "I'll let you two siblings fight, I've gotta go before Baron takes off without me."

Telia bit her lip and waved at me. "See yah cutie," she said in a taunting tone.

Shelia shot another glare at her sister before turning to me. "Goodbye Seth, stop by again sometime hm?"

I nodded to her, smiling, before Telia spoke up again.

"She wants more private time!"

"Telia!"

I just ignored them as I continued on my way, walking over to Baron.

'She's a lot friskier now eh?'

'Maybe because she knows you're single.'

'Don't get your hopes up you horny bastards.'

I shook my head, letting them bicker amongst themselves once again. As I walked over to the cart, Baron spotted me with a smile.

"There you are shorty! Was wondering if you were gonna stay here with your lady friends and make me have to go back and spread the news!"

I smiled at him. "Not this time Baron, you don't get to have all the glory now eh?"

He patted me on the back as I stood next to the cart. "Of course not Shorty! I can't take all the credit, now can I?"

'Wouldn't surprise me if he did…'

I ignored Psy's remark and hopped up on the cart again, laying back as I sighed. "Ready to go?"

Baron nodded as he finished strapping one last bag on the cart, before he hopped up as well, making the whole thing wobble for a moment. He grabbed the reins and got the horses moving, waving to all of the cheetahs as they all waved back to him.

"Safe travels!"

"You're awesome Baron!"

"Thanks for all you've done!"

"Come back soon!"

I smiled a bit, even though most of that stuff was directed towards Baron, it was nice to be met with more chipper tones rather than cold shoulders, that was for sure.

"Onward to the Dragon city there Shorty!" Baron announced as we were let out of the gate, slapping me on the back again.

I kept my smile, happy to be going home after another long trip across the realm.

"Hey you know I was buying some things from an old cheetah, he seems to have a pretty daughter you could get with."

I gained a deadpanned stare as I turned to him. "I'm not interested Baron."

"Oh come on! Why not give it a shot? Think the shopkeeper was known as Crackle if you wanna go and chat with em about it sometime!"

My eyes widened at the name. "Uh – that's a big no then…"

He raised an eyebrow. "Why's that?"

"It's a long story…"

"Well we've got plenty of time for a story on the way there!"

I sighed loudly, knowing full well he probably would bring it up time and time again if I didn't tell him about it.

"It all started my first time in the cheetah village…"

Hours later…

We managed to reach the Dragon city in only a couple of hours, using the now not so secret passage I had traveled many times before. There were a few guards at the end of this passage, but they let us in with smiles, one or two of them nodding to Baron as he passed by. I winced a bit at the harsh light of the afternoon sun as we came out of the cave, blinking a couple of times as my eyes readjusted. I then saw the Dragon City yet again, most of its scars from the war were rebuilt and patched up nicely, though a few scrapes remained here and there.

Baron stopped the cart as we entered the city, looking to me.

"I'm gonna go sell a couple things over at the merchant corner, you wanna come with or?"

I shook my head. "I had probably better go report to the guardians."

Baron smirked as he raised an eyebrow. "Now look who's stealing all of the glory?"

I chuckled. "Hey, remember what happened the last time we didn't go straight to them? Terrador nearly had a fit!"

Baron waved me off as he chuckled too. "I know I know, get going now Shorty! I'll see yah again soon!"

I nodded and hopped off the cart, grabbing a bag of my supplies as I did so. "Hope you can get some good gold off that stuff, see you later."

Baron gave me a wave as I walked off, leaving me to my own thoughts. I glanced around as I traveled through the city, seeing that the beings around were all just going about their day. It seemed like a happier time than before, no more fighting, no more fear, just a time of peace. I blinked as I saw a couple beings looking my way, some smiling, others seeming curious, and a few of them even giving me a wave. I slowly waved back, trying to put on a good smile as I did so, still not used to the amount of attention I was getting.

'Don't question it, and just go with the flow.'

'Just don't let it go to your head, we don't need another arrogant one up here.'

'Yeah, we've got enough with just this creepy dude here.'

I heard Psy sigh in my head, but he said nothing in return. It was getting a bit tiring to hear them always fight about the same thing, but it was just another day in my head I suppose. I was more focused on the small crowd around me, filled with all sorts of beings. Dragons, cheetahs, moles, ect. Some were waving and others were even cheering for me. I just kept waving back, still smiling, though once voice soon cut through all of the crowd.

"Seth!" a very chipper dragon shouted.

I turned around to see Ember prancing up to me, a wide smile on her face as she had a small bag of things strapped around her. She had grown a bit after the past couple of months, seeming to be hitting a growth spurt as she was about a whole foot longer.

"It's so good to see you! How was your adventure!?" She said with a smile, now standing beside me as I walked.

"Hey Ember," I replied, smiling at her. "It's good to see you too, and my travels with Baron was good."

Her eyes sparkled a bit. "Rescued those in need and fought off the forces of darkness?"

I shook my head. "Wasn't really much of a force, we just kinda showed up and about a day later they surrendered there was so few."

"Of course they surrendered! They couldn't hope to fight off such a mighty hero like you!"

"Wouldn't say that, I think Baron did the most work in that department."

"Don't sell yourself short! You're just as mighty as he is! Maybe more even!"

I sighed once again, looking away as I felt my cheeks heat up. I could never really get used to her unyielding praise and enthusiasm, but I'd be lying if I said it didn't make me feel good.

"So, u-um, how are you and your mom doing?" I asked as I looked over to her.

"Oh, we're doing great! I'm actually grabbing some things for the orphanage; the kids have been asking for new toys for weeks now!"

I smiled. "I'm glad your mother went back to doing what she loved after recovering from her wounds."

Ember nodded with a chipper grin. "Yep! We've gotten some help from other beings in the city too! Its really nice to see how many want to help out the kids! Baron even shows up for "story time" every now and then!"

I chuckled. "I don't doubt it, he loves telling anyone and everyone about his adventures."

"You should come by again sometime too! The kids like seeing you!"

I waved off her statement. "Bah, I think they just think I look weird and stuff, and I'm not really the best with kids."

Ember shook her head. "Don't say that! They love to hear about your adventures too! And watch you do some of the "cool stuff" with your powers!"

"You can entertain kids all day if you just make a rock float in front of em."

I felt her poke me with her tail. "Come on! Come to the orphanage sometime! At least to see me?"

I glanced over to her to see her giving me big, puppy dog eyes. I sighed once again, feeling another smile creep onto my face. "Fine, fine, but don't go cuddling and hugging me in front of everyone."

She nudged me with her head. "No promises!"

I rolled my eyes but kept smiling. "I'll try to drop by tomorrow then," I turned around. "But I really gotta go now."

Ember nodded and nudged me with her head again. "Okay, just note Spyro might be there too! He seems to enjoy visiting me and the kids a lot!"

I raised an eyebrow. "How often does he show up?"

"About two to three times a week! Says he wants to help the kids since he was an orphan as well."

I smiled. "Sounds about right, I'd glad the kids have a hero like him showing up a lot."

She bumped me with her side. "Now imagine if two heroes showed up! They'd be ecstatic!"

I chuckled. "Maybe, maybe – anyways I really gotta go to the Guardians now."

Ember smiled and nodded. "I know, but its good to catch up with you again! I can't wait to see you tomorrow!"

I nodded to her. "See you then."

With that, she and I waved at one another, before going our separate ways. I made it through most of the city without anymore interruptions, besides a couple waves from bystanders here and there. I tried to keep out of sight mostly, but it's kinda difficult when you're the only human in the realm.

'All of this cheering gets old after a while…'

'I thought out of all people you'd be the guy who loves this.'

'I prefer fear over admiration.'

'God you're so edgy…'

'I'd rather have them cheering for us than trying to flee from us.'

I agreed with Con's point. Over the past couple of months, I've been getting – well – happier. Its nice to have the people around smiling at me rather than having faces of fear or uncertainty. Of course, there was still some of that lingering in the city, but most beings seemed to have warmed up to me by now. I walked up the stairs of the main temple in the city, the guards simply nodding at me and letting me pass by. One or two seemed to have a wary eye on me, which I expected, but none stopped me as I walked in. I glanced around the place, remembering the days where I wondered through here just wanting to get out of it. The beings glaring, my head spinning with arguments from those up there, and just the feeling of unease. Those feelings were still there of course, but they were just a small twinge in my stomach. Now I was pretty familiar with the building, and it felt somewhat homey here and there. I was on my way to the main room of the temple where I assumed the Guardians would be, before I spotted someone coming around the corner.

It was a somewhat familiar llama, a servant I knew quite well.

"Hello Reginald," I said plainly.

He kept his blank expression as he nodded to me. "Sir Seth."

I was about to speak, before another familiar face came up behind Reginald. Segragoth blinked as he saw me, before a small smile stretched across his face.

"Oh! Hey Seth, it's been a while."

I nodded to him. "Yeah, did you finally get accepted into the Temple Guards?"

He sighed and nodded. "Yep, took a lot of work but now I'm an official trainee."

"Who's your mentor?"

"Commander Thwart, he's been training a lot of new troops and guards from what I've heard."

I glanced up, remembering my first couple encounters with the red dragon. "He'll be a good teacher I'd say…"

Segragoth rubbed the back of his head. "Well, he can be a bit rough, but I've learned a lot from him. He says I show promise though, and that I am fiercely loyal."

I nodded with a smile. "I'd say he's right about that."

Segragoth kept rubbing the back of his head, turning away with a smile. "Bah, I just like to help my friends and those in need, nothing special about that."

"It still takes a lot to get into the Temple Guards in the first place, so I'd say you have some good defining traits on yah."

Segragoth turned to me with a warm smile. "Thanks Seth…"

I nodded to him before turning back to Reginald. "How about you Reginald? What have you been up to?"

The llama raised an eyebrow. "You mean since that week I had to show you around the temple since it took you an ungodly amount of time to be able to navigate it?"

It was my turn to rub the back of my head. "Yeah… since then."

Reginald shrugged. "Well I've simply been showing more and more people around the temple is all, the most interesting things that has happened would be when a dragon crashed through the ceiling of the temple, before she and another servant disappeared about a week or so ago."

I blinked at that. "Huh… well that's certainly… interesting, I guess. But did anything interesting happen to you at all?"

He shook his head. "Nope."

Segragoth nudged him. "Well weren't you telling me you were promoted to the head of the temple caretakers the other day?"

"Yes," the llama replied blankly.

"And that's not interesting?" I asked.

"No."

Segragoth and I sighed at the same time, before I smiled to the both of them.

"Well, it was nice seeing you two again as always, but I really gotta go check in with the guardians."

Segragoth nodded. "It was good seeing you too Seth, be sure to stop by once in a while eh?"

"As long as I can get more riveting stories from Reginald."

For once, I saw the llama smile. "You'll get no such thing."

I chuckled at his snarky response, before waving to the two and passing them by, the both of them waving back. I paused as I turned around, second guessing myself on where I should go.

'Maybe we do need Reginald again…' Sane remarked.

I shook my head, before regaining my bearings. Luckily Reginald was quite strict in his teaching of the temple, so I had a lot of it nailed down into my brain. With that I was easily able to find my way to the room where the guardians spent most of their time. There were two guards at the doors, but the doors happened to be open. The guards simply nodded to me as I made my way inside. I saw the three guardians in front of a pool of water, seeming to be in a small conversation. They all turned to me as I entered, and I saw Volteer's face brighten.

"Ah, Seth, you've returned," he spoke.

I bowed my head. "Yes, Baron and I dealt with that batch of grublins easily enough, I doubt the rest of them will be banding together anytime soon," I lifted my head up. "There weren't any innocents harmed and we managed to capture all of the beings under Malefor's control, luckily it looks like we're easily breaking the spell now that Malefor is no longer of this realm."

'Don't you sound proper…'

I frowned lightly at Psy's remark, but I just stood straight and didn't reply. I admit I did kind of feel like I needed to act more "civil" when reporting stuff like this, even if I wasn't exactly the best at it.

"Good," Terrador spoke up as he nodded towards me. "Looks like that's the last of Malefor's forces that we could find for now besides those left by the ring of fire, though I don't think we'll need to send you out again anytime soon."

I nodded back, feeling as if a weight was just taken off my shoulders. It was nice to hear that I didn't have to go off on another journey anytime soon, hopefully this break would last for a little while.

"Thank you for all of your help Seth," Volteer said with a small smile. "You and Baron have done well driving out the rest of Malefor's corruption, without you two it would have been difficult to accomplish."

I waved him off. "We're just doing what we can, you have armies at your side and we're just two beings after all."

"Even then, the grublins fear the both of your more than most," Terrador spoke up. "I doubt many of them would have surrendered as fast without you two."

"Well – thanks. If there's nothing else then I think I should be going," I replied, keeping my eyes down, not wanting to accept more praise.

"Hold on," Volteer spoke up, taking a step forward. "We would like to repay you for your actions, please – kneel for a moment."

I raised an eyebrow at his request, before I kneeled down before him, bowing my head at the same time.

'Must we do this?'

'Shhh!'

"We hereby deem you an honorary knight of the guardians," Volteer announced, placing the side of his paw on one of my shoulders, then shifting to the other. "May you find victory in all of your battles, and may this honor follow you wherever you go."

I felt, tingly. My body was shaking just a bit as I felt a rush of both joy and awe running through me. I didn't expect to be given an honor like this, nor did I really expect it to hit me so hard. I swallowed and looked up, seeing Volteer smiling down at me, his eyes shimmering with pride. I cleared my throat and stood up, bowing my head once again.

"Thank you – really, but do I deserve this?"

"After all you've done to help us?" Terrador said, and I looked over to see him smiling at me as well. "Yes."

"You may have had a rocky start here in this world," Cyril said next, a small smile on his face, before he bowed his head for a moment. "But you have proven to be a warrior with a good heart."

I smiled back at them, my heart fluttering just a bit. I looked to Volteer, his smile growing as my eyes met his. He suddenly reached forward and pulled me into a hug. I flinched at this, before I returned the embrace, wrapping my arms around him. Normally I would be embarrassed to be hugged in front of others, but right now I just felt warmth and comfort.

Volteer rested his head on my shoulder. "Though it pains me that you cannot return to your world, I am happy to have met you Seth."

I chuckled a bit, feeling a tear run down my cheek. "I'm glad I was thrown into this crazy world… and I'm glad to have had so many beings willing to help me." I hugged him a bit tighter. "Thank you Volteer."

We both held the embrace for a bit longer, until we pulled back. Our eyes met again as we smiled at each other, Volteer using his paw to pat me on the shoulder.

"Now go enjoy some well-earned rest hm?" The dragon said warmly.

I sighed with a smile. "So long as there are no other dark lords out there eh?"

"Don't be tempting fate now," Cyril replied.

I waved him off, still smiling. "I know I know – thanks again for the honor you've given me, if you need me again you know where to look."

With that, I said my goodbyes, and exited the room. I felt, good, I guess…once again it was nice to feel appreciated, even if I didn't think I deserved it in full.

'Just give yourself some credit sometimes would you?'

'Its about time they gave us something for all of our work..'

I sighed. 'That's the reason why I don't right there.'

'Just ignore him and feel good for once eh?'

"Seth," A voice spoke up behind me, making me jump a bit.

I turned to see Cyril standing behind me, a curious look on his face.

"Did you find anything new?"

I frowned and shook my head. "No Cyril – I didn't hear or see anything about Malefor again."

Cyril sighed as he looked down, hurt in his eyes.

"I'm sorry Cyril – but he still might be out there from some of the things I heard before."

Cyril glanced back up at me. "Perhaps, though its difficult to tell if those were just rumors from extreme loyalists or something actually true," the dragon stood up straight. "Thank you for being willing to inform me about this."

I bowed my head. "You're welcome."

Even though I didn't really want the Dark Lord to return myself, I could see why Cyril held out hope to see his son again. Cyril was very good at masking his emotions, but one day he overheard me when I was talking about some grublins who said Malefor was still alive. He came to me soon after that, asking if it was true. Perhaps if Malefor did return Cyril could make it a different story this time around.

"You may go now," Cyril said. "Again, enjoy your rest."

I bowed my head once again. "Thank you, Cyril."

I turned to leave soon after, happy to finally be able to take a bit of a vacation after long months of battle and hardship. I had made my way through the temple, nearly at the exit, before I once again had familiar face turn the corner. I blinked as I saw Spyro and Sparx walking in my direction, I had thought the two along with Cynder had gone off a week ago to deal with other parts of Malefor's forces across the realm, but now it seemed they had come back earlier than I expected.

Spyro gave me a warm look as he approached. "Hello Seth."

I nodded to him. "Hello Spyro, Sparx."

Sparx grunted at the mention of his name, turning around and crossing his arms. Spyro sighed and gently poked at Sparx with his tail.

"Sparx…"

The dragonfly grumbled as he turned around, simply giving me a small wave. I couldn't help but smile in amusement at his childlike behavior, but I decided not to jab at him for it.

"Weren't we trying that whole "no hard feelings" thing eh Sparx?"

Sparx frowned. "Doesn't mean I have to trust you."

I rolled my eyes at his remark, before giving him a friendly smile.

"Can't we at least try to be a bit friendly with each other hm?"

Sparx looked me over, squinting at me. Spyro nudged him again with his tail, making the dragonfly sigh.

"Yeah, I guess…"

I nodded to him, before looking between the both of them.

"So how have you two been doing as of late?"

Spyro glanced down for a moment, making me blink. I thought I saw a bit of a somber look in his eyes, before he looked back up at me with a smile.

"Oh, Sparx and I have just been relaxing is all."

I nodded. "Seems like you two could use it after all of this huh?"

"No kidding," Sparx replied as he stretched. "Taking on an army of Darkness can take a toll on warriors like us!"

Spyro rolled his eyes, but ignored him. "Yeah, it has been good to be able to relax for a while."

"Well, I'm glad you get a break, hell I'm just happy that you and Cynder came back after those couple of months you disappeared. I was worried something happened to you both."

Spyro's gaze became saddened once more as he frowned. I sensed something might be up with him and Cynder, but I kept my mouth shut, not wanting to pry.

Spyro shook his head. "Yeah – um, anyways…" His gaze turned serious. "Thank you – Seth."

I raised an eyebrow. "For what?"

"For everything, you've helped us all so much even though this isn't your world. You risked your life and your freedom for all of the beings in this realm even though at first it looked like they hated you. You saved my life, Cynder's life, and countless others." Spyro looked down. "And again I'm – I'm so sorry I lashed out at you that day when Malefor got into my head, I truly am sorry."

I shook my head. "Spyro, we've been over this, I know it was just an act of anger, and I know you're sorry about it. I don't hold you against it, and if anything, I'd consider you a friend after all you did for me back then. And I was happy to help everyone, you, Cynder, and so many others helped me in my time of need, the least I could do was try to save your world after you guys saved my life countless times."

Spyro chuckled lightly, and looked up at me with a smile. "I know but, I feel like we need to thank you more often."

I shook my head again. "Well, you're the one who saved the world really, you stopped Malefor, so I'd say everyone needs to thank you more often."

"Damn right he deserves more thanks," Sparx piped in. "He's a hero that saved the entire realm for god's sake!"

Spyro shook his head and looked to his brother. "Sparx, come on, I don't need that much praise, I'm just happy we managed to save the realm."

Sparx nudged his brother's shoulder. "Come on Spyro, you gotta admit the realm owes yah! No banquet or ceremony could ever be enough to thank the hero of the Dragon Realms!"

Spyro rubbed the back of his neck, a bit of a blush showing through his scales. "Spaaaarx."

"Show more pride pal! You deserve it!" Sparx replied, smiling warmly at his brother.

"I still couldn't have done it without the help of everyone else."

I grinned. "Still, in any case, thank you Spyro for all you have done."

Sparx gave me a nod at that, a smirk on his lips. Spyro simply nodded in response though, and there was a silence after that. Spyro soon broke it with a small sigh before turning to me.

"Anyways, I need to speak with the Guardians for a bit now," he turned his head to Sparx. "Come on Sparx."

Sparx nodded. "Right behind you Spyro."

Spyro smiled and shifted his gaze back to me.

"It was good to catch up with you Seth."

I bowed my head a bit. "It was good to see you two Spyro, and Sparx."

I gave them a small wave as I passed them by. Spyro and even Sparx waved in return, both of them giving me warm expressions as we parted ways.

'Seems Sparx is warming up to us a bit,' Sane remarked.

'The little pest is too big for his britches.'

'Sounds like someone I know.'

I ignored there bickering and went on my way. It was finally time to get some much needed rest, and I couldn't think of any place better to start than my own home in the Dragon city.

Later…

I now stood before the decently sized home carved out of stone to the side of the dragon city. They didn't carve it out recently, it had been here years before the war had happened. It was fitted for a cheetah, but the dragons figured it would be suited well for me too. It was, and despite the guardians offering to get beings to build me a new house, I just opted for this one. It was out of the way of the main street, off to the side, and nice and cozy. I didn't think I'd get too many visitors here, though I surprisingly had the occasional "fan" show up, saying it was a pleasure to meet me and such. It was both weird and again, kind of nice when that happened, just spontaneous arrival of those who wanted to praise me, even if I didn't think I deserved it half the time.

Regardless, I walked into the home, smiling as I opened the wooden doors and entered the main room, the smell of home hitting my nose as I looked around. It was – a bit messy… clothes and plates tossed around the place, but it wasn't the worst thing you could have imagined surprisingly. I would usually clean if I had guests over, be it Ember, one of the cheetah sisters, Spyro, Cynder, a guardian, Baron, so on and so forth. I would get at least two to three visitors per week when I stayed in my home, and it was nice to have the company in this big empty house.

I walked over to the decently sized sofa and plopped down onto it, the sofa having some nice, red cushions on it that were really comfortable. I let my body slump as I laid back, kicking off my leather boots and tossing my bag of things onto the ground next to it.

'Home sweet home…' I thought.

The mere second I thought that, there was a knocking at my door. I opened one eye with a sigh as I looked over at my door.

'No rest from others today it seems…'

'Quit your whining.'

I slowly got up from my sofa with a yawn, before calling out. "Be there in a sec!"

I walked over to the door, placing my hand on the knob. I twisted the knob and opened it to see Cynder standing there, a small smile on her face. She had grown quite a bit, even over 6 months, she was getting to be about my height, and she'd be way taller than me if she stood on her back legs. I smiled back at her, feeling a bit of anxiety rush through me.

"Hey Cynder," I said plainly, before I took a step back. "Wanna come in?"

I winced at my own words, somehow finding them to be stupid. Cynder's smile grew as she nodded, walking passed me through the door.

"Thanks, sorry to just show up out of the blue…" she said softly.

I shook my head, shutting the door behind her. "No, you're fine, I was just kinda sitting here thinking anyways."

She turned to me with a curious look. "Thinking about what?"

I shrugged, rubbing the back of my neck. "Oh, just all the crap that's been happening over the past couple of months is all."

"It's been a wild ride… again sorry for disappearing for so long."

I shook my head. "Again, it's okay, you don't have to apologize to me about it, I know you two just kinda needed time away."

I sat down in my chair once again, before gesturing to the couch. Cynder nodded and hopped up on the couch, making it creak a bit as she laid down on it, crossing her front legs and curling her tail around her.

"How are you and Spyro doing anyways?" I felt a twinge of sadness and hurt when I asked that, though I really didn't know why. I guess its because I of course still had a soft spot for her.

Her gaze fell to the ground as she turned her head away, a long sigh escaping her lips. "Actually – we split up about two weeks ago."

I blinked in surprise at her words, I would have thought they'd be together forever, partially due to the games and the other part due to how close they were. Though at least now I knew why Spyro seemed a bit saddened before.

Cynder turned back to me with a somber gaze. "We just kinda figured out we are very different dragons. Yes, we both helped each other a lot in desperate times, and we still do share a bond, but I think it wasn't a bond of lovers."

I frowned at her words. "I'm sorry Cynder… it must be hard."

She shook her head, looking down again. "It's not like it was one sided, it was something we both agreed on. Sure, we're both kinda hurt, but I think we both know it's better this way." She went silent for a moment, before glancing at me. "How are you and Shelia doing?"

I winced at her words. "Well, we actually broke up too."

Cynder perked up at my words, tilting her head. "Why? You two seemed so good together."

My gaze hit the floor this time. "Yeah, but we both kinda figured out that neither of us knew how to take things forward. We were both very passive, and yeah we really cared for each other, but we just didn't mix as well as I thought we would." I sighed and rubbed the back of my neck. "Hell, it took her to say something for us to finally talk about it all…"

I felt Cynder's paw on my knee, looking up to see her giving me a look of sympathy. "I'm so sorry Seth…"

I shook my head. "It's over now… yeah it hurts, but I'll get through it. It's kinda like how you said it with Spyro, wasn't really one sided and we don't hate each other, it's just kinda better like this you know?"

Cynder nodded as she rubbed my knee slightly. We were both silent for a moment, gazing into each other's eyes. I felt my heart flutter for some reason as I stared into her beautiful green eyes, they were so soft and caring, I almost felt lost in them. I blinked, before glancing down at her paw on my knee, realizing she still had it there. She must have noticed it too since she quickly removed it, both of us glancing at each other. I noticed a blush on her cheeks, before we both looked away. There was a bit of heat on my cheeks as well, making me clear my throat. The silence continued, I was trying to think of something to say to move on from that moment, before Cynder spoke up.

"Seth – I know I've all ready asked this before but – back during the days when you first arrived here, you said you felt you could relate to me since you had "seen my story"," her gaze became curious. "What did you feel like you could relate to?"

I frowned, rubbing the back of my neck. I know I had told her this before, but I guess I didn't go into enough detail.

"Well – like I said that time, I kinda knew what it was like to be outcast from everyone else. In my world a lot of people around me were either kinda fearful or weirded out by me. Having your parents murdered and stuff right in front of you makes a lot of rumors go around about your character," I looked at her, feeling sadness wash over me. "Its not as drastic as your situation, being born into a life of hate and conflict, but we're both just trying to move forward from terrible things that happened to us in the past. I felt like I knew your struggle I guess, and it comforted me in a weird way."

Cynder had listened to me intently during my explanation, a softness in her eyes as she nodded, smiling a bit. It would be good to mention that a month ago I did end up telling her about the time my parents were killed, she didn't pry, nor did she judge, I just felt the need to tell her.

"Well um –" she began, lowering her gaze. "If it makes any difference, I think you've done really well to get passed the horrors you experienced when you were young. You didn't let that horrible person's words control you, yes you slipped up every now and then but you got passed it, you grew from it, you learned from it," she looked up at me with a smile. "And now your stronger, stronger than I think you've ever been."

At this moment I noticed the glimmer in her eyes, I was getting lost in them once again, and I felt a rush of heat on my cheeks. There was a flutter in my chest and a warmness in my heart, I almost felt like something was taking over me.

"Cynder…" I said softly, still staring into her eyes.

'What are you doing?' Psy spoke up, but it didn't stop me.

"I really care about you, I know we haven't known each other for the longest time but…"

"Yeah?" Cynder replied, her eyes still locked with my own, a small smile on her beautiful face.

'Snap out of it!'

'Shush!'

"Every time I'm with you I feel a – warmth wash over me – a feeling of true connection – just a sense of overwhelming affection I guess."

'Stop it! Stop it now!'

'Keep going!'

I looked down. "Something I never really felt to this degree with anyone else, not even with Shelia. I don't know why I'm saying this but I just wanted to let you—"

I was interrupted as I felt her claw on my chin, gently raising my gaze to look at her once again. Her eyes were soft, warm, and even had a glimmer of excitement. She was blushing, her face a bit blank as she stared deep into my eyes.

'You're winning her over!'

'STOP! STOP!'

'This is the best part!'

She slowly leaned in, opening her mouth just a bit as she tilted her head to the side, her eyes closing. I didn't hesitate, shutting my own eyes and leaning towards her. The second our lips locked together I felt a rush of what seemed like fireworks going off in my chest, heat rushed fully to my cheeks as my mind exploded with thoughts of pure affection. The taste of her lips was sweet, and her loving cup of my chin added all the more to the moment. I couldn't hear the other three in my head, the sound of my pounding heart drowning out their cheers (and cries).

We held the kiss for what seemed like an eternity, neither of us wanting to pull back. Though it finally ended, the both of us pulling away as I opened my eyes to meet hers. She held my chin for a bit longer, until she gently caressed my cheek, her loving eyes staring into my soul.

"Will you be my mate, Seth?" she asked in what seemed like a whisper.

I smiled, feeling my hear skip a beat as I gently nodded. "Its been something I've wanted more than anything in this realm."

Her smile grew as she kissed me on the cheek. "Come here…"

She shifted herself on the couch, laying down and patting the new spot she made beside her. I nodded and got up from my chair, before gently laying down beside her, the couch just big enough for the both of us. She smiled at me as I laid my head down on the pillow next to her, before she gently wrapped her forearms around me, pulling me into a tight hug. I felt my heart race as I wrapped my arms around her, holding her close, tingles running down my spine as I felt her rub my back. She nuzzled my cheeky fondly, draping her wings around me to keep us both warm. Normally this would have felt restricting, but with Cynder, it felt like I was in heaven. Her heartbeat pulsed against my chest, her warm scales pressing against me as I heard her soft breath on my ear. I flinched just a bit as I felt her tail wrap around my knee down to my ankle, squeezing it gently.

"I was waiting for you to finally say something…" she whispered into my ear, nudging my head somewhat playfully.

I smirked at this, feeling my body shiver just a tad. "Well – to be fair we've both been a bit preoccupied."

She pulled me in a bit closer, bringing her head back before placing her forehead on mine, a warm smile on her face. "Still, I knew you liked me at least a little bit. Even if – what was his name? Psychotic you said? Didn't seem to like anyone."

'Cheeky little dragon…' Psy groaned, but I detected a bit of "giddiness" in his tone.

I chuckled. "Still remember when I told you about that a couple months ago huh?"

Cynder nodded, grinning. "Of course, after all its nice to know you've got three other guys up there, explains why you look like you're having a conversation with someone even when you're not talking."

I felt my blush return, rubbing the back of my neck. She giggled and nuzzled my neck in return, speaking softly as I felt an odd vibrating sensation coming from her chest – almost like she was – purring?

"Well – what do they all think of me now hm?"

I blinked as I stared down at her, seeing her open one eye and give me a smirk.

'She's beautiful…'

'She's strong…'

'She's passionate…'

All of their thoughts hit me at the same time, making me smile down at her as I gently kissed her on the forehead.

"Only good things…"

She giggled once more, nuzzling my chest before bringing her head up and kissing my cheek. I felt one of her claws gently grip the back of my head as she stared into my eyes once more.

"Now all of those good things are yours, forever…" Cynder kissed me on the nose, still smirking. "My heart will always be yours."

My smile grew. "And you'll have my heart, along with that of the three idiots up here…"

"Well, they can't be all bad, if they're all you…" Cynder replied. "Then again, they might be a bit thick in the head…"

I gently nudged her head with a grin. "Hey – that hurts!"

'She's right you know…'

Cynder shook her head, still smiling. "Oh, come on, it took you months to figure out what flirting even was!"

"But I finally did though!"

'Barely.'

She giggled, before letting go of me and presenting her chest and scales to me. "Then come on, give me your best shot."

I looked at her, and my eyes traveled over her body. I could see her scales shimmering, the curvature of her chest, the beauty of her face and eyes. I became lost for a moment, before my eyes drifted up to meet hers once more.

"You're scales glimmer like the most beautiful gems I've ever seen…"

She blinked, a small blush appearing on her face as her mouth hung open just a bit. She snapped out of her daze for a moment, giggling and burying her face in my shoulder.

"Okay – b-beginner's luck!"

I grinned and gently caressed the back of her head.

"You wish."

Her claw came up to silence me as she kissed me on the cheek once more. "No more talking now okay? Let's just lay here, perfectly, together hm?"

I smiled and nodded, holding her close in my arms once again as I placed the side of my head against her own. I felt her grip tighten as her wings kept us both wrapped up together like a blanket, her tail still gently tugging on my leg. It did feel perfect, the vibrating of her chest, her heartbeat, her sweet scent, her soft breath, her warm scales, her comforting wings, and her loving embrace.

'Finally…'

'I think this ended up good, eh Psy?'

'Shut up…'

I smiled as I looked up in thought. 'I guess we're all in agreement here then eh?'

'Yeah,'

'Yep,'

'I suppose so…'

I shook my head at his response, smiling and nuzzling Cynder once more, making her shifted against me as she sighed softly the two of us just laying there for what would seem like hours on end.

It was funny, I never thought the perfect place for me would be here, in the dragon realms, even after all this time. My story began with me talking to a crystal, and now it seems to end with me cuddling against a dragon, the love of my life. I don't know what I have in store for me next, nor do I know what hardships I might have to go through, but now I know why it's all worth it. And there are a few things I know going forward.

'I am Calm.'

'I am Confident.'

'I am Strong.'

'And all of this together...'

'Is me.'

A/N: Here we are folks… we finally made it. This is the end to my terrible fic, and I know it was a long and kind of convoluted end, but I had a lot to wrap up eh?

I am sorry it took me this damn long to finish the thing, and I am very sorry that I cannot continue with it like I had planned. I can only hope this ending is at least good enough to be a conclusion to this very long fic that so many people seem to love.

I really do thank each and everyone of you for reading this all the way through, I thank everyone who commented, everyone who faved, and everyone who followed. I hope it was worth your time, and I hope you're happy with the ending I gave.

Seth's story is finally at an end, and with it, I don't think I'll be posting anything more to fanfiction. I need to move on from here, and look for something else to write, something I can actually make some money off of eh?

Even with that said I was happy to finish this, like I said I would. It took 6 long years to get it done.

So, thanks to everyone again, even to those who PMed me about this fic. Its because of the massive following this fic got that I managed to push through to the end… (and a certain dragon loving snugslut…)

I believe this is all from me, there only might be one more thing I post, but even then, that's a bit slim.

So long everyone, I wish you all luck, and I hope you all enjoyed this stuff I wrote.