Raya and the Last Dragon: Dragon Heart

by Zylo24

An outsider has mysteriously stumbled into the land. As corruption, hatred, and mistrust again starts to divide the world, the origins of a terrible evil begins to surface...bringing about a much darker force that could irrevocably destroy the dragons along with all of Kumandra. Sisuxhuman (Takes place shortly after the movie)

2. Chapter 2

Chapter 2: The Gift

"Nothing says welcome to a new place louder than a gift!''

"Oh ho that food is smelling pretty good!'' said Sisu, licking her lips.

Sisu, Raya, Chief Benja, and I were walking down a corridor of some kind. The floor seemed to have been made of polished marble decorated with circles bearing intricate floral designs. The walls of the right side of the hall were of a turquoise color with pillars standing along at about every four feet with each other, earns of three pointed shaped, dark purple plants of some sort decorated in the spaces between the pillars. On the left side, however were no walls, just pillars and uniquely designed railings that gave us a view of a circular, well taken care of courtyard. In the courtyard were numerous large bushes with varying shades of green as well as trees filled with bright pink cheery blossoms that filled the air with a sweet scent. As we walk, we would occasionally pass by yellow rimmed, cased openings that led to different rooms. I then begun to notice that the main color scheme seemed to be turquois. I wonder if it's the Land of Heart's main color scheme.

"Yeah not to brag but Heart does has some pretty good eats,'' said Raya.

"Oh really?'' Sisu began with a sly smirk. "Is this where you learned to make those oh so delicious jackfruit jerky?''

"Oh shut up Sisu!' hissed Raya with what seemed to have been an embarrassed look and earning a laugh from the water dragon

"Uh…jackfruit jerky?'' I asked.

Sisu answered. "AKA the bane of my digestive tract. Word of advice Lamar if Raya here offers you one, run away…fast!''

I just looked at Sisu quizzically at her statement. "Weally? Are they weally that bad?''

"Don't listen to her Lamar. They're not THAT bad once you get used to them,'' said Raya.

"You're right. They're not that bad…they're terrible,'' commented Sisu, sticking her tongue out in disgust.

"Dewdrop I've tried one…they are pretty terrible,'' joined Chief Benja.

Raya huffed, shooting her father an annoyed, unamused glare. "Gee thanks for the support Baa.''

At this Chief Benja and Sisu laughed heartily, soon joined by Raya as she gave a light chuckle. We turned and were about to enter through one of the cased openings when Raya and Chief Benja paused before taking off their shoes and placing then neatly next to the opening. Thinking this must have been a custom of theirs and not wanting to be rude, I too did the same, placing my damp socks inside of my red and white converse sneakers. We entered a room, though one at a time for Sisu proved to have been quite large for the space. The room was rather simple in layout. I first noticed a short, long brown table with bowls and baskets of foods of some sort. Some baskets had what looked like yellowish green fruits of some kind while others had dark purple vegetables. Some bowls were filled to the brim with cooked, steaming balls of dough which I guessed were bao, others were filled with cooked rice, while the rest had…well I didn't know what they were. Some sort of cooked balls of some kind, some brown while the others were a dense white color. To the right of us was a countertop where on its surface were wooden plaques of meats, vegetables along small bowls of different colored spices. Also on the counter top were three, old fashioned looking stove tops that were tended to by two woman. To the left of the room were was another counter top with plates, bowls, and silverware neatly stacked and put away, ready to be used when needed as well as another set of three stoves. Wooden beams, elegant in design, stood at key locations while the walls were decorated with a couple of light brown fans and wooden silverware. An older, Southeastern Asian man sat at one side of the table as he stirred contents of bowl. In all it seemed to have been a kitchen of some kind, the air filed with an enticing aroma that made my stomach growled in hunger.

As Chief Benja entered, everyone stopped what they were doing and gave him a respectful bow, forming those strange hand signs to which he and Raya responded in kind. However upon seeing Sisu, they murmured excitedly while giving deeper bows.

"Good evening everyone,'' began Chief Benja. "From the smell I take it dinner is just about ready?''

"Yes Chief Benja. "Help yourself whenever you're ready,'' answered one of the women at the stoves.

"Very good. We'll dine on our private balcony. Also I would like to introduce Lamar. He will be our honored guest tonight. Please treat him well and make him feel as welcomed as possible.''

I felt a bit of embarrassment as the ruler of Heart introduced me, but the others merely responded with an understood bow though it wasn't long before I received those same, curious looks I gotten while on the way to the palace. I followed Chief Benja, Raya, and Sisu to another opening on the other side of the kitchen, Sisu carefully making her way through and awkwardly apologizing as she bumped into a few things.

"Maybe next time I'll use the dragon entrance,'' Sisu chuckled sheepishly.

We made our way to an outside balcony where we were immediately met with a view from the outside world. The balcony sat over a vast valley of green hills and mountains, a large river nestled in between that glistened from the setting sun. Cherry blossom trees provided the space with shade as a gently breeze blew, sending some blossom pedals fluttering freely into the serene valley.

"Dang that's a money shot of a sight,'' I spoke to myself.

"We'll dine over here. Let us sit down,'' said Chief Benja.

He motioned to a short flight of stairs and we followed behind the village leader and came to a higher level of the balcony. The space was simple in layout. In the center of the balcony was a table similar to the one in the kitchen though just a tad bit smaller. Blueish green cushions were situated around the tables, obviously to sit on. It was also quite spacious, as even Sisu could freely walk around without much hindrance as we came around to the table, still having a magnificent view of the valley. Raya's father kindly motioned me to sit to which I sat at one end of the table with Chief Banja sitting across from me with Raya on the right and Sisu laid herself on the left, her tail curving behind me.

"There! Nice and comfy and ready to eat,'' Sisu said, licking her lips.

I smirked. "You sure love food don't you Sisu? You must dream about food?''

"What? Nah…well there was this one time I had this freaky dream where I was a mango. Let me tell you that will be the LAST time I eat mangos before bed.''

I chuckled at the goofy dragon's statement before addressing Chief Benja and Raya. "Chief Benja? Waya? Again I'd just like to thank you for asking me to join you for dinner.''

"You're quite welcome Lamar,'' answered Chief Benja with a smile. "We're always happy to entertain guests. That being said, how about a joke or two?''

"Oh please don't,'' groaned Raya with a face palm.

Her father laughed, "Just kidding Dewdrop. Seriously am I that bad at telling jokes?''

"Let's just say you have a few things in common with Chief Virana…except you tell the mother of all bad dad jokes,'' grinned Raya.

The two shared a light laugh. "Chief Virana?'' I thought to myself when I heard the name. Could she be the leader of some other tribe in this land? I wonder how many villages and leaders are there. Nonetheless, I shoved these questions to the back of my mind and spoke again. "And you have a beautiful home also. And that view of the valley…just breathtaking.''

Raya smiled with a nod. "Like my Baa said, it's a pleasure to have you Lamar. And as for the views, can't get any better than this.''

It wasn't long before a few men and woman appeared and brought out bowls, plates, and baskets of steamed white rice, meat skewered on wooden sticks, soups, fruits and vegetables. After placing the foods on the table, the attendance gave a bow before leaving us to partake in the colorful, culinary smorgasbord.

"Well let's not just sit here with stomachs growling. Dig in everyone,'' said Chief Benja.

"Don't mind if I do Chief Benja,'' answered Sisu hungrily.

The four of us began to dine on the small buffet that was given to us. Chief Benja poured some soup in a bowl and offered it to Sisu to which the dragon accepted with gratitude. Without the need of a spoon, Sisu tilted back her head and drank down the soup in three gulps and let out a satisfied sigh.

"Hmm now that's some good soup. Can I have more?''

"Of course Sisu, there's plenty to spare,'' said Chief Benja with a chuckle as he pour Sisu more soup.

"How about you Lamar?'' asked Raya. "Would you like some?''

"Do it Lamar. Your taste buds will take a journey to heaven!'' Sisu commented before gulping down her second helping.

I gave a light shrug. "Can't weally turn it down after a weview like that. Yes I would like some please.''

Raya smiled and nodded before pouring some soup in a bowl and handed it to me along with a porcelain white Chinese spoon. The bowl was filled with a colorful combination of spices, round cuts of what seemed like yellow vegetables, a few red solids that I guessed were dried chili, and what honestly looked like blades of grass all swimming in an orange broth. I inhaled the pleasant aroma of the soup before taking the spoon, scooping some of the liquid, and finally placing it in my mouth. My taste buds were bombarded with a sweet flavor along with a mild heat.

"This soup IS good. What kind of soup is this?''

"Just a little something my Baa came up with,'' answered Raya, giving her father a smile.

"It's nothing special really,'' began Chief Benja humbly. "Just some shrimp paste from Tail, lemon grass from Talon, bamboo shoots from Spine, chilies from Fang, and palm sugar from Heart. I came up with it about six years ago, I wanted to try something new.''

"Well you tried and conquered Chief Benja!'' said Sisu as she slurped down her soup again.

"She's wight sir, this is probably the best soup I've ever tasted,'' I added.

At this the leader of Heart gave a thankful nod, ''Well I appreciate it, the both of you. There's plenty so eat as much as you'd like.''

"That shouldn't be a problem for Sisu. We might want to eat what we can before she scarfs the entire table,'' Raya commented, giving the dragon a playful smirk.

"What can I say,'' Sisu grinned. "I love me some good eating'…except your jerky. That's terrible eating.''

"Enough about my jerky! It's terrible I know!''

Sisu and Chief Benja shared a laugh, followed by Raya before I joined in with a soft chuckle. I continued scooping the soup into my mouth until the contents of my bowl was empty. I decided to try some of the other food before asking for a second helping of soup and decided to start on a bowl of cooked rice. As I ate the white rice, I couldn't help but notice through my peripheral vision that Raya seemed to have been watching me. A bit of nervousness started to build up, but I tried to swallow it down as I ate the rice. I shoved another fork full of rice into my mouth when Sisu spoke up.

"Hey Rai? Chief Benja? Have you ever seen someone as dark as Lamar before?''

I choked on some rice and looked at her as Raya gasped while her father was more composed yet too had a bit of shock on his face. "Sisu! Really?!'' said Raya.

"What? I was just asking a question. What, are questions against the law now? Besides I saw you looking at the guy like that. You wanted to know the same thing.''

Raya glanced around frantically before letting out a groan. "Sisu you can't just casually asked a question like that it's…it's-"

I just let out a deep sigh, setting my bowl down. "It's fine Waya. Besides…I'm not weally surprised anymore at this point, especially the glances I've been getting since coming here.''

Raya looked at me with an apologetic expression and spoke. "I'm sorry Lamar, and I didn't mean to stare. It's just…I've been to every land in Kumandra but I've never seen anyone uh…like you before. Your clothes even look strange. I've never even seen that kind of hairstyle before.''

"Right?'' Sisu joined in, putting down a plate of fruit. "That's what I said when I met him. I mean look at these, he calls them 'dreadlocks'.''

Before I could react, the water dragon started to stroke my black dreadlocks, earning an irritated sigh from me. "Weally? Again? Sisu didn't we talk about this?''

Sisu continued on, undisturbed with a look as if my hair had her under a kind of spell. "Personal space I know Lamar but…I just can't help myself. You guys want in on this?''

Chief Benja just awkwardly scratched the back of his head, averting his gaze as Raya gave Sisu a disapproving frown. "Sisu drop the hair and step away from the guest…by order of the Princess of Heart.''

"Aw alright. As you wish Princess Joy killer,'' Sisu pouted, crossing her arms.

Relieved, I mouthed the words 'thank you' to Raya to which she giggled and winked. This time, it was Chief Benja that decided to speak.

"What my daughter said is true Lamar. You do seem rather…unique looking compared to others we've met before. Tell us, from which land do you hail from?''

"Judging by his clothes, I'd say Fang,'' said Sisu. Other than Heart, people from Fang are pretty snazzy dressers. Lamar's duds are strange, but stylish!''

I averted my eyes downward timidly. I was wearing a simple red, short sleeved shirt with a white design pattern covering most of the front along with some light blue jeans…both of which were mildly damp of course. I shook my head. "I wouldn't say 'stylish' but they're ok I guess. But I'm not from this 'Fang' place. I'm not even from Kumandra.''

"Not from Kumandra? Then where else could you come from then?'' Raya asked quizzically.

Sisu answered. "He said he's from some place called North…uh…Caro-merica? No, no…U. ? Uh…psst Lamar, help me out big guy.''

I shook my head lightly before correcting the dragon. "I'm from North Carolina. It's located in the United States of America.''

At this Raya and her father shared perplexed glances before looking at me. "I'm sorry, what now?'' pondered Raya.

"The United States of America? You know a country? Red, white, and blue? Land of the free and the home of the brave?''

There was once again silence as Sisu, Raya, and Chief Benja just looked at each other uncertainly. "Lamar I'm sorry but I'm afraid we know nothing about this…'country' you speak of,'' explained Chief Benja.

"My father's right,'' added Raya. "Kumandra has five lands…that's it. That's all that's in our entire world.''

"A-Are you serious?" I asked almost pleading.

Raya and her father just glanced at each other with solemn expressions before looking back to me. I saw it tin their eyes that they were telling me the truth. After a moment of silence, Sisu spoke with a sheepish chuckle. "Uh, maybe the maps of the world is actually bigger than we thought and we haven't been unfolding them all the way? Or maybe Lamar's home is invisible? Nothing? Cool, I-I'll be quiet now.''

I gazed drearily at Sisu. I know that she was probably just trying to ease the atmosphere with humor but I really wasn't having it. Not only was I far from home but my hosts apparently haven't even heard of my home. For all I know, my home doesn't even exist here? Seriously was this some forgotten place in the world or a whole new planet all together? After a moment of silence I heard Raya speak.

"Ok how about we start from the top? Lamar how exactly did you here?''

"What are you talking about? I brought him here. You saw me with him,'' answered Sisu.

"I meant how did Lamar came to Kumandra Sisudatu?''

"Oooh,'' said Sisu, understanding what the princess had meant. "Yeah that makes sense. Continue please, he he.''

"Well honestly…I really don't know. Last thing I remember I was looking at a dragon medallion that I had bought at a market at my home,'' I said.

"A dragon…medallion?'' repeated Raya, cocking a confused eyebrow.

I nodded. "Yeah I…wait! Hold on a sec.''

I then realized that in my sitting position, I had felt objects in my pockets. I dug in my left pocket, felt around and felt a circular, rigid object and took it out. It was the medallion I had spoken of, the item in the shape of a black dragon. Its body was coiling around with its head in the center while being held by a silver chain. A small, dark violet crystal served as its eye which shimmered in the in the light of the sunset. I gazed at the object in my head for a moment before speaking again.

"This…I remembered looking at this before coming here. I put it in my pocket and I just blinked and the next thing I know I was in the middle of a rainforest.''

My listeners had expressions that seemed to have been a mixture of confusion, intrigue, and awe. "That's…unbelievable,'' spoke Raya. "Mind if I can see that?''

I nodded and handed the medallion to Raya. She observed, running a thumb over its black surface. "I've seen dragon pendants before, but never one quite like this. What about you Baa?''

I watched as the Princess of Heart passed the black medallion to Chief Benja. He brought a finger to his chin with a look of pondering thought as he carefully scanned the trinket. "Hmm this does look rather interesting, but I'm at a lost just as you are Dewdrop.''

"Well let's not let the passing train end there. My turn. Let me check out that small bad boy,'' said Sisu, her claw outstretched.

"Of course. Here you are Sisu.''

Chief Banja gave Sisu the medallion. The water dragon gave a low hum as she intently examined the medallion from all angles. She nodded while speaking in a low tone. "Hmm…interesting.''

"W-What's interesting? Do you know what it is?'' I asked, leaning in with interest.

"Nope. I haven't the foggiest idea about anything on this thing,'' Sisu answered in a rather cheery tone. "Isn't that interesting?''

My jaw drew jar and my eye twitched as I stared at Sisu while hearing Raya groan next to me. "Hey Sisu? You're not helping.''

"Tell me about it,'' I grumbled to myself.

Sisu chuckled sheepishly before speaking. "Sorry guys. Didn't mean to get hopes up. I just…just…wait a sec. I think I just noticed something.''

"Yeah, sure Sisu,'' said Raya sarcastically.

"No, no seriously! I've never seen this thing before in my life and yet…''

"And yet…what?'' Chief Benja asked.

We all looked at Sisu intently as she finished. "I feel something…familiar about this medallion. I don't know what but I do sense SOMETHING about it. Like…Like I've felt it before.''

Raya, her father, and I exchanged glances at the dragon's mysterious words. Sisu can 'sense' things? If so what was she sensing? As these questions ran through my mind, a new one formed to which I had to ask.

"Sisu? Do you think that medallion had anything to do with me being here?''

"I'm gonna be real with you big guy,'' Sisu began with a sort of wince as she handed me back the coiling pendant. "I really couldn't tell you. I really don't know what to make of this feeling I was talking about. Maybe I was just overthinking it. I'm sorry Lamar.''

Her answer disappointed me as my face fell into a frown. I averted my gaze down at my bowl of cooked rice and gave a deep sigh. "You're fine Sisu, but thanks anyway,'' I mumbled.

I guessed Raya had noticed my demeanor for I heard her voice speak out in a question. "Lamar? Are you ok?'' she asked in concern.

"Honestly, I weally don't know,'' I answered looking up at her. "It's just…this whole thing is kinda has me wigging out. Once minute I'm home and the next I'm in a different land with nowhere to go or how to get back.''

"You mean you don't have a place to go? You've just been wandering around?'' Chief Benja asked.

"Yes sir. I met Sisu not too long ago but before that, I was just wandering about in a rainforest.'' I look out over the valet to see that the sun was disappearing over the horizon, the sky now a pinkish purple. "There wouldn't be a hotel, inn, or anything like that in the village would there by any chance? I need to find a place to stay tonight."

Sisu gazed at me, slightly perplexed. "Hotel? What do you mean? You don't have a place to sleep?''

I sighed, fearing I might have to camp it out on the street or bushes tonight. "Like I said Sisu, I recently just showed up in Kumandra today whit no idea how it happened. All I have are the clothes on my back and the stuff in my pockets. Nothing else.''

Sisu, Chief Benja, and Raya all frown, clearly showing sympathy towards me. After glancing at one another, Chief Benja soon smiled and spoke kindly. "I'm sorry to hear that Lamar. That must be a scary situation? Arriving at a new place with no knowledge of how you got here or how to get back? Well I guess there's just one thing to do…you can stay here at the palace. That is if Dewdrop objects?''

"I wouldn't object to that,'' said Raya kindly.

My eyes widened as my jaw nearly dropped while an excited smile came to Sisu's face. I couldn't hardly believe it, these people would let me a complete stranger stay here in their home. "I-I…are you sure? I don't want to impose.''

The chief of Heart answered. "Lamar we try to be a leading example to all the lands of Kumandra, especially now that we're in a time of rebuilding and growth. There's no way we'd turn out back on anyone who may be in need. It's no trouble at all. And it sounds like you may be here for quite a while, so you can stay here as long as you want.''

"Way to represent Heart Land! Whoop, whoop!'' cheered Sisu.

I was still in complete shock yet I felt a wave of relief wash over me knowing I wouldn't have to brave the elements tonight. I swallowed before offering a small, quivering smile. "I would very much appreciate it. Thank you sir. Thank you Waya. I don't know how long I'll be here, but I promise I won't be any trouble.''

"I'm not too worried about that. You seem like a really nice guy,'' said Raya.

"Well I try to be. Other than that, I'm not all that special.''

"Well I like you big guy,'' said Sisu, placing a claw on my shoulder with a fond smile. "After all, we dragons are pretty good at having good judge of character.''

"Oh really?'' said Raya with a sly smirk. "Like the judge of character you showed with Dang Hu a while ago?''

At this Sisu gave a sheepish glance, scratching her neck. "Well…ok maybe that ONE time, but that was before. Things are different now!''

Raya let out a chuckle. I didn't know who this 'Dang Hu' was but I was hardly considering any questions at the moment. I just smiled, grateful that I was among such likable individuals even being offered shelter from them. I didn't even mind my clothes being damp anymore, I just wanted to appreciate this moment of fellowship. Dinner went on with nothing of great significance, just conversation, joking, and laughing. I soon found that the sun had completely set with the only light being from paper lanterns the attendance had lit up during dinner and the pale moonlight that bathed the valley below. Sisu finished what was left of the food, gulping down the last of the soup before giving a satisfied sigh followed by a loud burp.

"Excuse me, my bad,'' Sisu chuckled.

"Nice one O mighty one,'' commented Raya.

"What? A burp is just a compliment of good eating.''

I grinned at the dragon. "I hope you ate good Sisu? You ate most of what was on the table.''

"Lamar sweetie, have you seen this long body?'' began Sisu with a smirk. "I hardly ever get full. And don't get me started on the digestion.''

"Oh naw, naw Sisu. I'm good from knowing all that.''

The four of us shared a hearty laugh before Chief Benja spoke up. "Well anyway I'm glad you enjoyed yourself Sisu. It's always a pleasure to have you for dinner. Lamar I hope the food was to your liking?''

I nodded with a smile. "Yes sir the food was excellent. Thank you for letting me be a part of the meal.''

Chief Benja simply responded with a smile and a slight nod. The palace attendance soon came out and quickly gathered the dishes and carried them back inside, leaving the table bare once again. A low rumble sounded throughout the night sky. I looked up and saw clouds starting to come together as another sound of thunder was heard. "I'm guessing it rains a lot here?'' I asked.

"You have no idea,'' said Raya, she too gazing up at the sky.

"And I guess that's my cue to boogie,'' Sisu said, standing on all fours and starting to stretch.

"You mean…you're leaving?'' I asked.

"Yep. Gotta meetup with my brothers and sisters and get ready for tomorrow. Big day.''

I was honestly a bit disappointed when I heard this. To be honest as goofy Sisu can be upon meeting her, I really didn't want her to leave. I tried to mask my despondency as the rest of us stood up. "You sure you're not going to miss us Sisu? After all time goes by when you miss a friend,'' Raya said with a grin.

Sisu smirked. "My longing to see you again will be unbearable, but I think I'll manage.''

Raya chuckled before going over and embraced Sisu in a hug. They broke apart and the water dragon faced Chief Benja. "The food was awesome as always Chief Benja. Thanks for having me.''

"The honor is always ours Sisu. You're always welcome here,'' said Chief Benja, giving a bow along with that 'O' hand sign.

Sisu smiled and nodded before turning to me. "Well Lamar, you gonna be ok?''

I nodded with a small smile. "Sure Sisu, I should be. Thank you for all you've done.''

"Ah don't mention it. I always have humans' back. I'm a dragon…it's our thing.''

As another sound of rumble echoed through the night sky, it then started to drizzle. A strange sound then came to my ears, it sounded like…howling? Wailing? Like a call from an animal of some as more and more joined in. I then noticed that Sisu started to get excited as she sort of hopping in her place like a child waiting to go on a ride at an amusement park.

"Oh boy! Here they come. Man I've missed this so much!'' said Sisu giddily.

I then turned to Raya. "Waya? Is Sisu ok? Why is she acting so-''

I stop mid-sentence, my question answered before I had a chance to finish asking it. I soon discovered the source of the howls as what looked like dozens of dragons appeared from the moonlight horizon beyond the valley. My jaw dropped as dragons of different colors hopped through the sky just like Sisu had done earlier. Like Sisu, the dragons were galloping on the raindrops making magical, colorful splashes as if the very air itself was an invisible body of water while coming towards us like a small army. It wasn't long before the dragons flew over us, initially paying us no mind as they proceeded their flight. Some performed graceful, acrobatic spins, rolls, and flips while other soared and glided as they made their journey.

"Holy crap…!'' I uttered in absolute shock, putting my hands on my head as I watched the spectacle that was happening over us.

I cast my awed gazes to Raya and Chief Benja to which the later merely smiled yet too with impressed joy while Raya looked as excited like a child on Christmas morning. Sisu gave a giggle before addressing us. "Welp…later gators!''

And just like that the blue furred water dragon leaped in the air, galloping on the rain at great speed before she too was gliding and soaring through the rain filled skies. She gave off a fun filled cry of joy as she flew among her kind, particularly four other dragons, a green one, a purple one, a pinkish purple one, and a bluish purple dragon. Only mere minutes passed before the horde of dragons disappeared in the night as quickly as they appeared, leaving the three of us in the drizzling rain. I must've had the silliest look on my face for Raya chuckled before placing a hand on my shoulder.

"Leaves you kinda speechless huh? Don't worry, I don't blame you Lamar. We're still not used to seeing them.''

"How could we?'' added Chief Benja. "They've just recently returned. Their presence are still pretty surreal to all of us.''

I just gazed at them, still with that astonished expression before finally speaking. "That was the single greatest thing I've ever seen in my life. Kumandra is pretty awesome.''

At this Raya and her father shared a chuckle. With dinner finished and the dragons gone, my two hosts led me off the balcony, inside the kitchen, and back into the polished marble corridor now lit with lanterns. We all put back on our shows to which afterwards Chief Benja then faced Raya and me.

"Going off of what Sisu said, I too much prepare for tomorrow. I must leave to see to preparations before turning in for the night. Dewdrop would you show Lamar to the guest quarters?''

"I can manage that,'' answered Raya.

"As I said before Lamar, you're welcome to stay as long as you need to. I hope you have a good night.''

I smiled at the chief and nodded in gratitude. "I can't thank you enough Chief Benja. I hope you have a good night as well sir.''

At this Chief Benja smiled and presented me with a bow with the 'O' hand sign. He then gave his daughter a hug before walking down the corridor and disappeared through an entrance. When he left I noticed that he was walking with a bit of a limp. Was something wrong with his leg? Did he suffered an injury of some kind? If so was it some sort of battle wound? These questions were interrupted by the sound of Raya's voice.

"Well Lamar with the kind of day you've had, I'm sure you're ready for some sleep. C'mon I'll show you to your room,'' said Raya.

"Y-Yeah. Especially after a meal like that, sleep is not too far for me,'' I said.

Raya just chuckled and motioned me to follow her. We started down the opposite way of the corridor from which Chief Benja went down, passing a few workers of the palace who would bow respectively to Raya. Our walk was mostly a silent one, our footsteps being the only source of sound. My nervousness came back and continued to rise, for this was the first time I was left alone with the Princess of Heart and I kept my gaze mostly to the polished floor. We made of right turn and climbed a flight of stairs that led to another hallway and eventually we stopped at a door.

"Well here we are. I hope it won't be too cramp for you Lamar,'' said Raya as she opened the door and guided me in.

My eyes widened in surprise as we walked in a large room. Like the rest of the building, the main color scheme was blue and green. The floor was of polished marbled styled in turquoise colored diamond tiles while the walls were of a light shade of bluish green. The room was rather simply furnished as a large bed sat against the wall to our left with that was adorned with bluish, neatly made sheets and coverings. Against the wall to the right was a wooden dresser with long drawers with golden hand knobs. Straight across from us was a large, rectangular window that lacked glass, only covered with greenish drapes that flapped lightly in their places. Medium sized stone pedestals with paper lanterns served as the only source of light for the room as we heard the rain from the outside. I took a few steps, looked around, and then to Raya.

"You call THIS cwamped?'' I asked. "If this is cwamped, I'd love to see a spacious room.''

Raya chuckled. "Yeah there's few rooms here that's small. I'm guessing it's to your liking?''

"Very much. Besides you and your father are doing me a kindness. Either way I have no business complaining.''

Raya just smiled but then I noticed her face fading into one of…confused intrigue? She cocked her head as she continued to scan me to the point my nervousness started to return. "Uh Waya…you good?''

"Jeez darn it Sisu!'' Raya groaned before continuing. "Lamar this maybe a weird and probably creepy question and feel free to say no but…can I touch your hair?''

At first I blinked blankly at the question before sighing deeply with a slight eye roll. "My hair? Seriously why the sudden fascination with my hair?'' I muttered.

"I know it was a weird question but your hairstyle is just so…interesting. And Sisu got me thinking about it ever since she mentioned it at dinner so blame her.''

I let out a light snort and gave Raya a smirk. "Well if I let a dragon touch my hair, I might as well let you. After all, who am I to deny a request from a princess,'' I said, trying to be a bit witty along with a playful bow.

This amused Raya as she gave a giggle and she walked closer to me. "Are you sure?''

"I'm sure. Go for it Waya.''

Raya nodded and brought a hand up and started to gently feel my black dreadlocks. "O-Oh wow…'' said Raya softly. She continued to stroke my hair with deep fascination. She then started down the locks running down the side of my face and I felt she fingers touch my cheek. Almost instantly a chill swept through my body as my heart rate began to increase with a warmth sensation building in my face. It was only after two or three minutes when Raya finally stopped felling my hair.

"Sisu was right, that did feel different than other hair I've seen… but rather fun to the touch. And they're called 'dreadlocks'?''

I nodded. "You're weally impressed by them? I mean Sisu already wants to paten it as a pastime sport in this land.''

"Don't worry, I'm not as quirky as Sisu,'' chuckled Raya. "Besides, something tells me that you wouldn't like that all too much.''

"Well I'm glad somebody understands. It's a miracle,'' I joked to which we both shared a chuckle.

I then cast my gaze upon the paper that was on the dresser and walked over to it. I looked upon the contents to see that it was a map of some kind. But instead of the maps I've seen in my life that showed numerous of countries and continents, this map showed only a single land mass. The design looked like it was hand drawn or even painted, near the top were images of snowy mountains while the right side of the map had strange shapes and formations shaded orange, a desert region perhaps? The left side of the map had a light green shade to it with illustrations of numerous hills and mountains. However the most interesting and most noticeable feature that stood out was that in the center of the land was a winding river that formed the shape of a dragon similar to Sisu with an image of an island situated in the 'chest' area of the dragon shaped river.

"Is this…is this a map of Kumandra?'' I asked.

"Yes it is,'' answered Raya, walking next to me. "This is Kumandra. The one and only.''

"Interesting, though I don't see any signs of counties, states, or even cities. Wait, didn't you say something about Kumandra having five lands?''

"That's right,'' answered Raya. "This is the Land of Tail.'' Raya pointed at the orange shaded right part of the map which a long, narrow river indeed looked like a dragon's tail.

"The Land of Spine,'' added Raya, pointing to the snowy mountains near the 'back' of the dragon shaped image.

"The Land of Talon,'' continued Raya, pointing at a section resembling a dragon's hind claw.

"The Land of Fang,'' Raya pointed towards the section of the map that was basically the head.

"And Last but not least the Land of Heart where we live,'' finished Raya, tapping her finger on the island located at the center of the map. Together these five nations makes up Kumandra…our entire world.''

I gazed at the princess with an impressed gaze before looking back down at the map. "Kumandra…a strange but pretty awesome name. Still, it sounds like something out of a fairy tale or something.''

"I don't know about a fairy tale, but it is an awesome land. Especially how things are going now. But I'm excited. Tomorrow can finally be the start of a new age for this land…something my Baa have always dreamt about.''

As Raya said those words, I noticed that she had a serene yet eager smile upon her face as she gazed down fondly at the map. I wondered what she meant by those words? A new age? Was this land in the middle of some sort of grand revolution? If so then something must have happened in the past to bring about such a change. Though I wanted to inquire about Raya's words, a bigger question outweighed them and I asked my hostess in an uncertain, but hoping tone.

"And…this map is of the entire world?''

Raya looked at me with a slightly confused expression but she seemed to have clearly read my emotions for he face then fell sadly and she gave a deep sigh. "I'm sorry Lamar but I swear to you we know nothing about the home you described to us.''

Disappointment stabbed my heart like a knife, but deep down I knew the answer Raya was going to give me. "I had a feeling you were going to say that,'' I muttered. "So I'm weally am stuck here.''

After a pause I lifted my eyes to Raya to see she was giving me a sympathetic gaze and I quickly added on. "No offence Waya! I mean Kumandra is an interesting place and your home is beautiful it's just…''

"You're totally fine Lamar,'' said Raya, placing a hand on my shoulder. "Being spirited away from you home to a strange land with no knowledge how you got there can be pretty scary. But like we said before, you can stay here as long as you like. Who knows…maybe Kumandra could grow on you.''

Raya gave me a small, comforting smile. Heat again came to my face at this gesture as I was able to muster a tiny smirk of my own. "We'll I honestly don't know about that, but thank you anyway. Hopefully tomorrow there'll be better news. Still I guess things could be worse. I could be eating some jackfruit jerky,'' I spoke with a bit of a slick smirk.

"Oh you got jokes I see,'' Raya grinned. ''Maybe you've been hanging around Sisu a little too long already.''

"Hey I'm only going by what I heard. Hate the speakers not the listener. But maybe I'd be up to trying a bit to see if they were telling the truth.''

Raya chuckled awkwardly. "Well…I never said they were liars.''

We both shared another laugh. We engaged in conversation for a few minutes until Raya took a glance at the window. "Well I guess I should be going and let you get some sleep. Do you need anything before I leave?''

I shook my head. "No Waya. You and your father helped me enough today. Thank you.''

Raya smiled and gave a little nod. "Well then goodnight Lamar. Sweet dreams and I'll see you tomorrow.''

"Y-Yeah, totally. You too Waya.''

Raya turned and began to walk towards the door, but before she could leave called out to her. "W-wait Waya?''

The Princess of Heart stopped and look at me. "Yes Lamar?''

At first I was hesitant to say anything, my heart rate increasing as heat came to my face once again. I averted my gaze timidly while fiddling with my fingers but after some internal conflict, I took a deep breath and blurted out what I wanted to tell her. "Waya I just wanted to say I think you're beautiful, by the way.''

Raya seemed to have been taken completely aback from my comment. I was afraid that I maybe took it too far and had offended her, but she soon gave me a rather…seductive smirk?

"Oh is that right?'' she asked before walking towards me, swinging her hips. "Lamar are you trying to flatter me with sweet words? Are you hoping that you could get lucky tonight? What kind of girl do you take me for?'' Raya finished, still giving me that flirtatious gaze and walking two fingers up my chest.

"W-what?! N-No that's not it at all!'' I stammered, waving my hands in the air in a defensive panic. "I just wanted to give you a compliment! I wasn't trying to take advantage of you, I swear! Please don't tell your dad or have me banished or executed!''

At the height of my fears and panic Raya just burst out with a jovial laugh. "Lamar calm down I was just kidding!''

"W-What…?''

"I was just joking. No one's going to banish or execute you. That's kinda cruel and unusual for giving someone a compliment.''

I just blinked at Raya for a few seconds before giving out a loud breath of relief. "Jesus gurl you sure do know how to give a guy a heart attack!''

"I'm sorry for giving you a scare Lamar,'' Raya chuckled. "I just saw an opportunity to poke a little fun.''

I gave an awkward grin, "Well you succeeded. I think I lost a few years off my life, so thanks for that.''

Raya gave an amused laugh before a more touched and flattered expression spread to her face. "But seriously thank you for that Lamar. That's very sweet of you.''

"You're welcome. And no problem,'' I said, giving a shaky small smile.

After flashing me another smile, Raya turned exited the room, closing the door behind her and leaving me alone. I let out a deep, relieved sigh and briefly buried my face into my hands. With nothing else to do, I decided to get ready for bed. I didn't know what time it was but since the sun had recently just went down, I assumed it was rather early. However that didn't stop exhaustion from wracking my body like a tidal wave, made worse from a full belly. I went over and sat down on the bed and I took off my socks and shoes, placing them against the way next to the bed. I then was hit with another realization and I let out a groan.

"I forgot, I don't have anything to sleep in. How could things get any better?''

I then noticed a rather unappealing smell come to my nose. I sniffed my shirt and recoiled with a frown. "Oh gweat….that's an attractive smell,'' I muttered irritably.

I was about to take my shirt off when a voice made me jump in fright.

"Psst!''

"The hell?!''

I got up and followed the voice to the window upon I saw the silhouette of a noodle like figure moving about on the outside.

"Lamar. Lamar is that you?'' a familiar, raspy female voice called out.

Upon recognizing the voice, my eyebrows rose slightly. "Wait…Sisu? Is that you?''

"Oh thank goodness I finally found you! Hey you decent? Just want to make sure especially on the count of you know…maybe scaring a dude while he was bathing he he.''

"Uh…yeah I'm good,'' I answered, tossing away a mental image of Sisu poking in on someone's bath. "Hang on, let me get these things out of the way.''

I pulled one half of the drapes to the left and sure enough there I saw the blue water dragon that was Sisu, casually standing in the air on magical 'puddles' as rain fell down around her. I stood to the side as leaped into the room. I had noticed while her front leg was planted on the floor, it looked as if she was clutching something in her other claw. She gazed around and let out an impressed whistle.

"Wow they really hooked you up didn't they?'' said Sisu.

"Yeah, I'll say. Kinda luxurious. So what's up Sisu? I thought you had left for the night?'' I asked. Though surprised that she came to me, I was nevertheless happy to have been able to see her again.

Sisu looked at me and smiled. "Yeah I was, but on my flight home I was like 'Oh no! I forgot to give Lamar a gift!'''

"Excuse me, a gift?'' I repeated, perplexed.

"Uh huh! So I hopped and flew as fast as I could back to my place to get you a little something, something and came back here. I ran into Chief Benja and he told me Raya was showing you to your room. And so…here I am!''

I blinked a few times at the dragon's explanation and before I could speak, she opened her closed claw and presented me with an object. "Here ya go big guy.''

It was a golden pendant of some kind that was in the shape of a dragon. The dragon body was positioned in a way where it seemed to have formed a 'W' with its back and spine pointing upwards. The dragon's mouth was opened with a horn on its heads while embedded in the center of its body was a baby blue jewel of some kind in the shape of a hexagon.

I observed the trinket with utmost interest and then looked at Sisu. "Did you weally get this for me?''

The water dragon nodded. "Yep sure did. You like it?''

"It's great but…Sisu you didn't have to do this. You didn't have to go through the trouble.''

"What are you kidding me?'' began Sisu as she sat on her haunches. "Of course I had to, you're new here to Kumandra. And nothing says welcome to a new land louder than a gift!''

I just stared at her astonished by her actions and saw her face fell sadly as she continued. "Also I was thinking about how far from home you are with probably no way to get back. I also wanted to get you something that might make you feel better.''

I couldn't help but feel touched by Sisu's attempts to go so far just to raise my spirits. I really couldn't get over the fact that people here would show a complete stranger like me such kindness. I looked down at the pendant, and my thumb over its body before looked at her with a small, grateful smile.

"Sisu this…thank you Sisu. This was a nice gesture for you to do.''

Sisu smiled. "Ah don't mention it buddy. Besides that's just me, I'm a nice dragon.''

"And modest as well.''

"Hey, I try,'' Sisu grinned.

We chuckled together briefly before I gave the pendant a closer look when I noticed something familiar about its appearance. "Sisu is this supposed to be…''

"Me? Yep! Sure is! It captures me perfectly am I right?'' Sisu answered whipping her mane upwards proudly.

"Like a photograph,'' I grinned jokingly. "You must be pretty exalted if they made a pendant of you.''

"Eh it's not just me. People make things like this for all the dragons. They sometimes give them to us as well as other things as offerings to us.''

I gave an intrigued nod. "Wow…I didn't know dragons had their own merchandise here. Are they're action figures and trading card too?''

"I'm hoping!'' Sisu said excitedly. "Hopefully they'll give me a real awesome art style. Something that would really show my badassery.''

Sisu then made a rather…dramatic pose by standing on her hind legs with her arms outstretched and her claws together as if she was shooting out an invisible beam of energy as she gave a fierce but heroic expression. Upon seeing this I let out a laugh.

"Yeah…that's one hardcore pose if I ever seen one,'' I commented.

"Ya think? Cause I've been practicing like crazy. Of course my brother Jagan always wants to be Mr. Show Off and one up me with better poses, but what're going to do?'' said Sisu with a slight shrug towards the end.

I chuckled lightly, then looked back down at the pendant as silence fell upon us. After maybe about a minute, Sisu spoke up. "You ok Lamar?''

"Yeah, I'm good. We'll as good as I can be,'' I answered honestly.

Sisu continued to look at me sympathetically. "I'm sorry. I wish I really can do more to help you. Also honestly…I got you a gift as also a hope that you can trust me. And that you can trust Raya and Chief Benja as well.''

I looked at her quizzically at her words then answered her. "Trust you? Sisu you literally saved me from death. And ever since I met you you've been nothing but cool to me. You've earned my trust long before giving me a gift. As for Raya and her father…they shared a meal as well as offered their home to me. I'm pretty much obligated to give them my trust.''

At my words Sisu gave me a touched smile. "I really glad to hear that Lamar. I'm glad to know you don't have any qualms of giving others trust when first meeting them.''

I nodded. "Also yeah I'm kinda scared about showing up here, but I can't keep cwying about it. Constantly complaining won't help any situation. I don't know what I'll do but tomorrow I'm sure I'll figure out something.''

Sisu's face fell slightly at what I said. What she did next, however, took me completely by surprise as she came forward and brought me in for a hug. My eyes widened in shock as me head rested against her furred chest, her chin resting ever so gently on my back. Though shocked, I almost immediately pushed the feeling to the side and returned the hug given to me. After a few moments, Sisu ended the embrace and gazed down at me, placing a claw over my chest and the other one cupping my face.

"Don't worry Lamar, everything will be just fine,'' Sisu said softly. "I know things might be a little scary right now, but I promise you'll be safe, especially here with Raya and Chief Benja. You have my word as a dragon.''

I winced as I honestly felt my eyes beginning to sting with tears building up. I was genuinely touched by this powerful show of empathy and kindness. "Does someone need another hug before I hit the road?''

I could only nod, my fingers pressed against my closed eyes. I felt Sisu wrapped her arms around me as my face again pressed against her chest. Once Sisu freed me from her embrace, she gazed down at me with those brilliant, violet eyes of hers. "Feeling better big guy?''

I nodded up at her with a smile. "I really don't know what to say Sisu. When I arrived I was lost, scared, and alone. I weally appreciate your support.''

Sisu chuckled with a humble smile, her tail wrapping around my shoulder and bringing me near her in a chummy fashion. "Don't mention it Lamar. Like I said before I'm a dragon, and I'll have your back.''

I can only smiled in extreme gratitude and averted my gaze bashfully to the floor. Sisu then scratched her maned neck before speaking. "Well I guess I should bounce before the rain stops. I'll stop by first thing in the morning to check up on you, ok?''

"That would be awesome Sisu. I hope you have a good night.''

Sisu giggled. "Night Lamar. Don't let the Toot n Booms bite!''

And without another word Sisu leaped out the window and with her dragon abilities started running and galloping on the raindrops through the air, making those magical splashes as she did so. I watched her until she disappeared into the night, the shadowed outlines of the nearby hills and the falling rain the only things I could see. I then rolled the drapes back to the center, fully covering the glassless window. Like after dinner, again I felt deep disappointment with the departure of Sisu and with a heavy sigh I made my way back to the bed to prepare to go to sleep. Not wanting to sleep in my damp clothes, I started to take off my red shirt. As I began to unbuckle my belt, I felt objects on the sides of my thighs and realized I still have things in my pockets. I emptied out my left pocket and took out a black wallet and the black, coiled dragon pendant and placed them on the bed. Out of my right pocket I took out my phone along with some air pods and placed them on the bed along with the golden pendant Sisu gave me.

"I forgot I had these,'' I muttered to myself, looking at my wallet, phone, and air pods.

With my pockets emptied, I proceeded to take off my pants, leaving me only in my boxers. I folded my pants along with my shirt, and started to place my wallet and air pods on top. As I was about to grab the two pendants I took a moment to scan both of them; the mysterious black, purple jewel eyes dragon medallion and the golden, baby blue gem embedded pendant. I gave a sort of frown at the black medallion, the one I had on my person upon arriving in Kumandra but upon seeing my pendant gift I gave a small, affectionate smile. After the pause, I place the black medallion with my wallet and took the bundle across the room and placed them in the first drawer, taking one last look at the medallion before pushing in the drawer. I made my way back over to the bed, picking up Sisu's pendant and my phone before drawing back the covers and climbing in the bed.

I pulled the covers over my body and resting my head one of the pillows. With my phone in my hand I gave the black screen a tap and it illuminated to show me a wallpaper depicting two wolves baring their teeth at one another. I typed in the password and was brought to the main screen and I tapped on the green, phone icon in the bottom left corner of the phone. I shifted to my contacts and tapped the name that red 'Xavier' and I tried to start a call. Hesitant, I brought my phone to my ear and said a silent prayer.

"Please pick up. Please pick up,'' I muttered over and over again.

But hopes were shattered when instead of a dial tone, an electronic woman's voice instead said.

"I'm sorry, the number you are trying to reach cannot be found. Please hang up and try again.''

"Of course,'' I sighed.

I pressed the name reading 'La'Quondra' but again it went straight to the same, electronic message.

I tried again with two more names reading 'Quest' and 'Liam', but again the same result. I let out an irritated groan and decided to give up on trying to call anyone else. I then decided to open my gallery and scroll through the various photos I had taken. Some were snap shots of various locations I have been to. One was of a picture of a castle in Germany. Another was a small town with snowcapped mountains looming over. Others where selfies with me and various people. One had me and a female, light skinned female with brown curly hair. Another was with me and different dark skinned males. As I scrolled over them, a small formed on my lips. I came to one that was a group photo of me with three, dark skinned guys and a light skinned female, smiling broadly at the camera. I let out a chuckle seeing this and scrolled to another group picture only this time I was about sixteen years younger and there was a more mature, but pleasant looking man with glasses and a short, black, well-groomed hair with similar skin tone as me and the other three boys. Next to him was a beautiful, light skinned woman with long, dark, shoulder length hair. I was sitting in the lap of the woman while the others in the group crowded around, giving the camera calm but content smiles. I stared at this particular pic for what seemed like hours, gazing at each face and stopping on the woman's image. I stared before I found my eyes beginning to sting as water started to well up and I turned off my phone and cursed myself under my breath.

"Damn it! I know I was a loser back home, but now I have to be a fuck up in a completely new place too?'' I said to myself through gritted teeth.

I tear escaped my eyes and rolled down my face. I took some deep breaths to calm myself down and I dried my eyes before burying my face in my hands with a groan. I then stared up at the ceiling and thought over all that had happened to me today. Though my arrival in Kumandra was initially stressful, I was glad that there were definitely some good to have happened to me. I don't know how long I might be here, but maybe this new world won't be so bad. Maybe I should give it a chance. Besides, in this land dragons exists…actually dragons! And I even befriended one. But still, my thoughts then went back to that…thing. That strange, otherworldly, black cloud swirling thing that had chased me before being saved by Sisu. What was that thing? Should I mention it to Raya and the others tomorrow? Would they even believe me? My eyelids soon started to get heavy and before I had even knew it, I had fallen fast asleep. Man I must've been tired. So tired that it seemed that a low, quiet voice was asking for help in my dreams.

Author's Note: Hope you all enjoy the new chapter! If anyone is wondering about Lamar's speaking, it will be explained in chapter 3. Please comment your thoughts. It'll help be become a better writer for the future. Next Zootopia Chapter 7 is coming, then after Chapter 3 of Raya! Take care everybody!