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)

1. Chapter 1

Volume 1: Kumandra's Spring

Chapter 1: The Outsider

"Buddy I'm gonna need you to do me a big solid and not be dead!"

How did I end up here? That's what I wanted to know myself. One moment I was at home then the next, I'm stranded out in the middle of some…wilderness. But when, or how did it happen? I remember I was looking at a shard of a strange gem I had and then in a blink of an eye, I was here…somewhere. I looked around, seeing plenty of lush trees and greenery. Birds chirped from afar with occasional sounds that seemed to be frogs mingled along with the avian sound. However I also noticed that was all the sounds I could here. No automobiles. No planes. No human activity whatsoever. I noticed I had appeared on an obvious path of sorts and not knowing what else to do, I decided to follow it.

I may have walked for ten or fifteen minutes, curiously yet cautiously observing my strange environment. I had to admit as foreign as this wilderness was, it was actually rather…beautiful. I saw exotic looking flowers of varying colors and sizes, just adding to the alluring atmosphere of the wood. With the flora along with the symphony of the fauna I heard, I came to the conclusion I was perhaps in a rainforest of some kind. But…where I'm from there are no rainforests. Did…did I somehow get to another country? Is this the Amazon Rainforest? That can't be! Could it?

Thoughts whirled in my head like a hurricane as I continued my trek. Minutes more passed as I parted large leaves and bushes, careful to be mindful of my hands. If this was a rainforest, then there very well might be poisonous plants and insect about. What I wouldn't give for a machete right now. I soon found myself entering a small clearing, the sunbeams breaking through the trees overhead when I immediately noticed a statue standing in the center of the marsh. Curious, I made my way to the statue and observed it. It depicted a male human made entirely of stone and it seemed to have been wearing clothes that looked seemed Asian inspired. The statue was positioned with its head bowed with its hands cupped in front of him as if it was about to drink water from a stream. What a weird place for a statue to be at. Here in the middle of a forest? I took one last look at the still statue before finally deciding to move along on my trek and entered on the other side of the bush. As I continued to walk I began to notice a sound coming to my ears. I paused, concentrating solely on my hearing when my eyes widened in amazement. It was faint but that was without a doubt the familiar sound of rushing waters. Could it be? A river or a creek? If there's a body of water here than that could surely mean that a town could be nearby…or at the very least a village. Meaning humans. Meaning help!

Joy and relief started to overtake my fear and worry and I was about to bolt down the path until I realized something else. The birds chirping. The frogs croaking. Any sound of wildlife…they have stopped. I looked around trying to listen for signs of any of the fauna but nothing…just the faint rushing of the nearby water. A low rumble of thunder came to my ears and not long afterwards, a light sprinkle of rain started to fall. "Perfect,'' I thought irritably as my clothes started to get wet. I then heard what sounded as slow movement behind me, causing my body to stiffen as a board. My heart dropped as the sounds of leaves rustled behind me. Battling through the anxiety, I managed to turn around to see that indeed that the bushes I had just came from started to shift and move…like someone or something was passing through them.

My heart started beating rapidly like a drum as I took a step back. Was it a human? A native? Maybe I was saved. Maybe they could help me! Or was it animal? An animal that eats meat, specifically one that wants to eat MY meat? Somehow I was finally about to part my lips and open my mouth and fearfully spoke out.

"H-Hello?''

The sounds of the local fauna were the only response that was given to me.

I decided to inquire again, this time a bit louder. ''Hello? Is someone there? Can you help me? I'm lost and I don't know where I am. I can weally-''

I wasn't able to finish my sentence when what was creeping in the lush finally came out. It wasn't a human. It wasn't even an animal. It was…I don't know what it was! It didn't even seem to have an actual body. Its structure looking like it was made purely out of swirling, jet black clouds. I also saw that the very center of the mass was filled with glowing, dark purple energy of some kind.

"What. The. Hell?'' I could only utter as I took another step back.

The mass just remained idly in its spot. In all I was actually much bigger than it in fact, it looked like it barely came up to my knee but I didn't care. I didn't know what that…THING was. I was not going anywhere near it! I just stood there, not taking my eyes of the dark mass as it gave off an otherworldly sound as it swirled in its place. I began thinking if I should just run but the mass made that decision for me as it suddenly moved forward at me at an alarming speed. With a cry, I quickly turned around and dashed down the path.

I ran as fast I possibly could, breathing heavily. The drizzling rain started to feel like little pins hitting my skin as I sprinted down the path. I wasn't exactly in the best of shape for this kind of running but I didn't dare slow my speed. I called out for help as I ran, shoving leaves out of my way as the purple mass kept in pursuit. At one point I looked behind and saw that the mass was quick despite its small size as it stayed on my tale. It was just…terrifying. As the mass moved it looked like it was swallowing the vegetation as it passed through them. And yet…it moved erratically as if it was being hindered by something. With my focus behind me, I wasn't paying attention to where I was running and let out a cry as I fell off from the path and head first into a large body of water.

I was underwater for a moment or two, until I broke the surface of the water and gasped for air. I frantically splashed about and saw that I had fallen into a large, rushing river. The currents were strong as I was quickly being swept away downriver. While I tried to keep my head above water, I whipped my gaze all around and I didn't see the mass anywhere in sight. Could it not swim? Was water some kind of a weakness? Who cares?! It wasn't chasing me anymore! I was able to lose it! Before I could savor outrunning my unknown pursuer, I shifted my gaze toward the direction the waters were taking me and saw that farther down I could no longer see were the current was going only seeing what looked like the waters were disappearing from an.…edge?

That's when a dreaded realization hit me as my soul felt like became weighted down by a chunk of lead. My God…it was a waterfall. I was actually being rushed towards a waterfall! Almost by instinct, I started to thrash my arms and legs, desperately trying to swim away from the impending waterfall.

"Help!" I cried out before being forced underwater and resurfacing, coughing and trying to catch my breath. "Help! Somebody…ANYBODY! HELP!''

Again I was thrown underwater and again I resurfaced. I kept on flailing and thrashing in hopes to swim to the edge of the riverbank but my attempts were futile. My arms and legs began to tire and ach against the powerful river current as the edge of the waterfall drew ever so nearer. I was completely overcome by panic as I gave off one final, pleading yell.

"HEEELP!''

Then it happened. My worst fear then became a reality as I was washed over the edge and fell down the water fall. I screamed as I saw nothing but water as I plummeted down the cascade. I didn't even know how big the water fall is nor had no idea how far it was to the bottom. Were there sharp rocks at the bottom? But all that surely didn't mattered anymore. I was going to die. Here. Falling down a waterfall in a place I don't even know where I was. Any second now my life would be gone. My screaming will cease. Any time now...

But…my screaming didn't end. Surely I reached the bottom by now? Slowly I halted my screaming while noticing water raining softly around me as wind blew in my ears. I suddenly took noticed that something was now clutching me tightly around my stomach while my body jerked in a rather erratic manner. Eventually I worked up the courage to peer open my eyes for to see that I was no longer in the water but instead I was going through the air as the land below me quickly went by almost like a blur. I was flying?! Fearing I could fall at any moment I pinched my eyes shut while giving off a short cry. Fortunately for me, the flight wasn't a long one as I suddenly came to a jerking halt while I felt my body came to rest on a soft, earthy surface rather…gently. I continued to keep my eyes shut, almost like I was afraid to open them as I curled into a ball and covered my head with my hands when a voice then came to my ears.

"Hey! Hey buddy are you alright?''

The voice seemed to have been female, slightly deep in tone while being somewhat raspy yet…full of genuine worry for my well-being. I said nothing, just kept still in silence for a moment when the voice spoke again. "Hello? You good big guy? Buddy I'm gonna need you to do me a big solid and not be dead.''

Hearing the raspy yet friendly voice dissipated my fears a bit but enough to finally blink open my eyes. I saw I was now on a grassy ground, a river bank next to a large river. On the other side of the river were rolling hills and mountains of emerald green vegetation that glistened from the rain. I slowly left my fetal position and came to my knees. I then felt a rather large object rested gently on my back.

"Oh good! I thought I lost you there. I'm glad I was able to snatch you up just in time!'' the female voice commented in a relieved tone.

Catching my breath, I brought my nerves to a tolerable level before I finally turned to face my savior only to quickly back away and gave off a scream of fright. Instead of a human what I was seeing was a…creature of some kind! It had a long, spindly body and appeared to have been cover with fur. Its coat was blue in color with a darker shade on her back and a lighter shade on her stomach, arms and face. The creature had what appeared to be dorsal fins running along its back. What was probably its most distinguishing feature was that it had a white-blush mane with light, violet highlights that honestly looked kind of like human hair with a small tuft of hair at the end of her tail. It had two dark blue horns on head, one smaller on the front while the horn behind it was larger and longer as well as a snout on its face. The creature had four fingered claws while having three toed feet with both of its feet and claws having dark blue claws. The creature looked at me with large, violet eyes…eyes that had what appeared to be a mix of confusion and concern at my cry while her coat was matted and wet from the rain. Could this thing actually be some sort of sea creature or maybe even a…dragon?!

"Uh buddy you ok?" the serpent like creature asked in that same female voice as before, causing me to figure that this thing was a female.

Again I said nothing….just stared at the female being. What do I even say to her? I just inched away back slowly in fear. She must've noticed my apprehensive gesture as she looked around quizzically. "What? I-Is there a Toot n Boom nearby? Do I have something in my mane? BO?'' she asked, sniffing her armpit at the last inquiry.

I twitched an eye slightly at this unexpected, rather comical demonstration. I watched as she sat in a position similar to that of a dog as she just gazed at me, her head tilted a bit with that same worrisome expression. Finally I mustered the courage to at last speak to the creature and asked a simple question. "A-Are…are you going to eat me?''

My question seemed to have caught the creature off guard as she visibly fumbled. "What?! Eat you? Why would I eat you? I love people! Well not to EAT of course, but you know what I mean.''

My jaw dropped a bit at the answer when she continued on. "Oh my! You're all wet! But it's all good. Nothing like a little shake and dry can't fix!''

Before I could even react, the serpentine creature quickly swooped me up in her claws causing me to cry out. She then began to shake me around, my voice vibrating due to the motion of my shaking body. She only shook me for a minute or two before she finally sat me down gently on my feet. I was a bit disoriented from the shake down but I quickly regained my bearings as she gave me a pat on the head, rustling my dreadlocks as a smile formed on her lips.

"There we go! See? Just needed a little shake to do the trick. Well…maybe a little air drying can finish it up he he,'' she commented with a nervous chuckle at the end.

Despite the shaking I was still very much wet which see obviously saw. I looked down at my drenched clothes before looking back up at the creature, still giving her an uncertain, nervous look as the drizzling soon came to a stop. Now that I was standing, I took noticed that she was about twice as big as me and I guessed she had to be at least eight feet tall as she stood bipedal on her hind legs. Seeing me, she spoke again. "C'mon big guy you gotta give me something. What you've never seen a dragon before?''

"A-A dwagon?!'' I repeated softy, but in shock.

"Bingo! A water dragon to be precise. I'm Sisudatu but my friends call me Sisu. What's your name little fella?''

I blinked a few times, not sure how to respond as the female dragon waited eagerly for my response. Seeing how she acted towards me and apparently saved my life, I relaxed before speaking softly. "Lamar.''

"What was that?'' the dragon known as Sisudatu asked, coming a bit closer.

"I-I said my name is Lamar.''

At this a big smile came across her blue furred face. "Great! Nice to meet you Lamar! See? We're off to a great start!'' Sisudatu then bore a more concerned expression. "But seriously, are you ok? I know it must've been a bumpy ride. Humans aren't exactly used to riding dragons.''

I nodded slowly. "Y-yeah. I'm all good.''

"Whew that's a relief,'' Sisudatu sighed.

Silence was among us for about a minute before I cleared my throat. "Uhh…Miss Sisudatu was it? I just wanted to say well…thanks for saving my life.''

The water dragon smiled gently. "Ah don't worry about it. Protecting humans is my job. You know it's my thang!''

I was totally caught off guard by the phrasing Sisudatu had just used. But still I was still a bit intrigued. Her job? So was she some sort of guardian? As I pondered these thoughts, Sisudatu continued. "But why would you ever jump into a raging river…especially one that was heading towards a huge waterfall?''

I frowned slightly at this. "It's not like I did it on purpose. I was running from something. When I fell in the river. Didn't you see it?''

"What? See what now? I saw nothing except a guy that dived into a river because I thought he had a suicide wish,'' Sisudatu shrugged rather plainly, looking away from me while scratching under the side of her chin before sniffing the air, her eyes widening. "But I do smell something. Hold on, is that…FOOD?!'' the dragon asked with excitement.

I blinked a few times, not expecting the outburst. I felt around in my pocket and felt a bump and took it out, remembering that I indeed ha a bit of food on my person. "O-Oh Yeah I forgotten about this.''

"Ohhh what it is?'' Sisudatu asked, clapping her claws giddily.

"Just a little snack I have,'' I answered, unwrapping the bar halfway. "Help yourself if you wa-''

I didn't even finish my sentence before the dragon swiped the bar sniffed it, and then finally took a bite out of the snack. She chewed a few times before her eyes shot open what appears to be shock, but then grew into a rather more euphoric expression. "Oh my gosh this…is…AMAZING!'' Sisudatu exclaimed, swallowing. "What is this delightful, culinary treat?''

"It's just a peanut butter granola bar. I take it you like it?'' I spoke with a smile, uneasy grin.

"You see me licking my fingers don't you? Raya's my girl and all but this beats her jackfruit jerky by a longshot! Salty but sweet…genius! Don't know what peanut butter is but I like it! Are you some kind of food wizard Lamar?'' Sisu inquired, finishing the last bit of the bar and leaving just the wrapper.

I shook my head. "N-Naw I can't weally take credit for making it. But you can't go wrong with peanut butter.''

I watched as the serpentine dragon started to lick the inside of the small, green wrapper. "Soooo good! Got any more bud?''

I shook my head with a small, apologetic frown. "Sowwy ma'am. That was my only one. I was saving it for later.''

"Oh no!'' Sisudatu gasped before looking at me with a truly regretful expression. "I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to take your only food. I really should've asked before eating it.''

"No, no you good!'' I quickly cut in, waving my hands in the air. "I'm glad you enjoyed it. Besides, it's the least I can do for saving my life.''

At this Sisudatu gave me a small, gentle smile, handing me back the empty wrapper and putting it in my pocket. "Well maybe I should save your life more often. If you feel the need to jump off a water fall, I got your back.''

I couldn't help but smirk at the quip and the both of us shared a light chuckle. By now I became a lot more relaxed being in the presence of the friendly dragon. I then decided to finally ask. "Er excuse me uh…Miss Sisudatu?''

"Ah just call me Sisu big guy,'' the water dragon smiled. "Like I said all my friends does. Plus it's WAY easier to say. Also drop the 'Miss' wouldja? I know I'm over 500 years old but I'm not THAT old he he.''

Wait she's over 500 years old?! Then again I shouldn't be too surprised since I knew dragons could be incredibly long lived. Even so, I merely grinned at the comical dragon and nodded. "Gotcha. So Sisu, do you know where I am?''

Sisu sat down on her hindquarters similar to that of a dog as she brought a clawed finger to her chin while rolling her eyes in thought. "Well honestly…I have no good idea. Just a little are I found a while ago that became my favorite new swimming spot. But it's just a raindrop step and a skip to Heart.''

"Heart?'' I repeated quizzically.

"That's right. You know right dab in the middle of Kumandra?''

At the name I then blurted out in almost a shout. "KUMANDRA?!''

At this, Sisu tilted her head in confusion, cocking an eyebrow. "Do you echo like everything a person says? What, is that like your thing?''

My jaw hung open but I said nothing as I looked onto the blue dragon with a dumbfounded gaze. She then fell on all fours and began to circle me.

"Anyway I gotta say I haven't seen a person as dark as you before? Haven't even seen those kinds of clothes before. Is that a new fashion statement you're trying to start? Hey you go boy!'' Sisu beamed as she stopped in front of me, still on all fours. "So which part of Kumandra are you from Lamar?''

"I'm not from 'Kumandra'. I'm from North Carolina,'' I spoke, breaking from my stupor.

"Sorry…North Car-what now?'' Sisu repeated with a frown of confusion.

"North Carolina. You know…U.S.A. America?''

The dragon just blinked at me blankly for a moment before speaking with a sort of nod. "Yeah…you lost me bud. North Caro-whozzits and Ameri-whatzzits…never heard of those places before. Are they some undiscovered lands or something? If so then there are A LOT of maps that needs updating, I'll tell you what.''

'I…seriously doubt it,'' I began as panic started to build up inside me. "Look I don't even know where this…Kumandra place is. I didn't even know it was real? It doesn't even sound like a real place!''

"Really?'' asked Sisu before patting a few places on the grassy ground. "Seems real to me.''

I sighed in mild frustration as I brought my hands to my face. I started to pace around my mind flooded with thoughts. Seriously…where was I?! Where on Earth was this Kumandra place? Is this even Earth?! I cursed silently under my breath as I tried to make sense of the situation. I didn't know how much time had passed before my train of thought was interrupted by a concern voiced Sisu.

"Hey Lamar? Are you ok?''

I stopped and shot her a rather distressed gaze. "Well honestly…no I'm not. I'm lost, I don't know where I am or even HOW I got here. I'm actually pwetty far from ok.''

Sisu cocked her head slightly with what seemed to have been a sympathetic look in her violet eyes. "Gotcha. Being lost is a pretty good excuse to be rattled. Listen is there anything I can do to help?''

Only one thing quickly came to mind and I answered. "You don't suppose there's…any people around here do you? Maybe they can help?''

"People? Like humans? Sure there are!'' Sisu said with a bright smile. "Like I said Heart is not too far from here. I can take you there!''

At this, a smile, hopeful smile crept on my face. "S-Seriously?! There's people here?! And you'll take me to them?! Really?!''

"Really, really!'' Sisu smiled with a wink.

I managed to stop myself from collapsing from the sheer joy I've ever felt since appearing in this foreign land as new found excitement lifted my body and soul. "That's awesome! Thank you so much Sisu!''

"Ah don't mention it big fella,'' Sisu answered with a bemused chuckle. "You ain't got nothing to worry about when you're with an awesome dragon like me.''

A low rumble of thunder then echoed throughout the skies yet again, as a few storm clouds started to come together. It wasn't long before again rain started to drizzle, soaking the land with rejuvenating water. Sisu closed her eyes as a serene smiled spread across her lips and after a brief pause, she muttered.

"Always right on time big bro.''

"Big bro?'' I thought to myself.

What could she possibly have meant by that? And what has it got to do with the sudden rain? Before I could inquire about these things, Sisu opened her eyes and looked back at me.

"So how about we get this show on the road?''

"Sounds good to me but…how exactly are we going to get to this 'Heart' place? Are we going to walk there or…?'' I inquired as I looked around at the lush world from the spot we were standing from. I realized I haven't heard anything like a car, plane, helicopter…or anything remotely like motorized vehicle.

Sisu gave me a toothy grin as she answered coolly. "Why the only way cool dragons travel.'' She then fully laid herself on the ground and looked at me eagerly. "Hop on Lamar. Time to get moving!''

"O-Oh…weally? Are you sure?'' I asked hesitantly. "Are you weally ok with me widing on your back?''

"Yeah it's fine! Now hop on and let's do this thang!'' the friendly dragon declared in that raspy like voice of hers.

Though still a bit hesitant, I soon nodded and did what was told of me. I walked over to the waiting Sisu and carefully swung a leg over and before long I was on the water dragon's back just behind her shoulders. I noticed how incredibly soft her fur really was and she asked, ''There we go! Ready back there? Like I said humans aren't really used to flying with a dragon so you might want to grab me tightly.''

I nodded and immediately headed her advice and wrapped my arms tightly around her neck, but made sure not tight enough that may cause her discomfort. "Noted. Weady when you are.''

At this Sisu merely gave a little giggle and before I knew it she started running on all fours towards the edge of the river bank. Terrified I pinched my eyes shut, tightened my grip, and gritted my teeth before I suddenly felt a rough jerk. If felt like Sisu had jumped up from the ground as wind started to blow in my ear. With the motion I was feeling, it seemed like the dragon was now making galloping movements as the wind continued to whistle in my eardrums.

"Lamar! You good?'' I heard Sisu call over the wind.

"Y-Yeah…! Just gweat!'' I called back rather sarcastically, not daring to open my eyes.

"Good to hear! I hope you're seeing this? The view's amazing up here!''

Though absolutely petrified, I slowly peered opened my eyes for them to immediately water from the force of the winds. It took a moment for my eyes to adjust to the passing wind currents to fully see the sight I was now beholding. We were indeed in the air but it was how that struck me in awe. While Sisu lacked wings she instead was literally galloping on the air. Most interestingly enough with each 'step' she took she made ripples of what seemed to be sparkling bluish pink energy. Each one would splash as if she were jumping in invisible puddles in the air before they would disappear as quickly as they came. The earth below us passed quickly by under us as we flew above a large river flowing between emerald hills and mountains. As the dragon made her way further upwards in the sky, I saw a strange sight: a flock of what looked like white feathered, long tailed creatures that seemed to be a mixed of birds and lizards that flew gracefully and untroubled next to us.

"How you doing bud?'' asked Sisu.

"Sisu…this is…is…'' I began, unable to find the words for what I was experiencing.

"You ain't seen nothing yet! This isn't even the best part!''

Before I could ask what she meant, I instead cried out as she quickly made a steep descent towards the water but quickly whipped back upwards, breaking the surface of the water just ever so silently and I felt a bit of water sprinkled my face. Sisu made a few more gallops, her steps filling the air with more colorful splashes before taking a long leap into skies. Still holding on tightly, I looked around as we still in the air for a few seconds but I quickly drank in the splendor of the skies and clouds blazoned by the reddish orange light of the sun. At the sight, I couldn't help but bear an impressed, amazed smile.

"Sisu. This is…this is…,'' I began in sheer awe.

"See? Pretty awesome huh? Next stop…Heart!''

Sisu then resumed her horse like, galloping stride. After some time I soon saw what appeared to be a large clearing among some more forest. We had soon started to descend and after Sisu's final hops and strides we landed safely on the ground.

"Lamar and gentleman we have now landed in the Land of Heart. Please remember to grab all of your belongings before exiting the dragon. We hope you enjoyed flying Sisu Airways and we look forward to riding with us again,'' said the comedic Sisu as I quickly hopped down from the dragon's shoulders.

At first I had a bit of trouble keeping my balance, no doubt due to Sisu's undulation. I would've fallen over completely but was caught by Sisu. "Hey, hey easy big guy! You ok Lamar?''

I just gave off a breathy laugh. "Not only did I meet a dwagon…I actually FLOWN on one!''

"Hardcore stuff am I right?'' grinned Sisu. "Other than my girl Raya, you're the only other human that I've flown with. It's the only cool way to travel.''

"But…how were you flying like that? I've never seen anything like it."

Sisu gave a bit of a shrug as she sat down on the grass. "Eh I wouldn't exactly call it 'flying'. I was actually running on the raindrops. All dragons can do it. Other than that, I'm pretty much falling with style.''

"Ok, that's low key dope,'' I said impressed.

Sisu just responded with a chuckle. I took a moment to observe our new surroundings. The clearing was deserted save for Sisu and myself. From our spot I noticed an obvious path leading to the lush, exotic forest and all was quiet save for the sound of the animals of the woodland as well as the rain hitting the leaves.

"So this is the 'Heart' place you were talking about Sisu?''

"Well…not exactly,'' answered Sisu while stretching her body. 'But we're close. Just over the meadow and through the woods.''

I nodded in understanding. "I hope I wasn't too heavy for you by the way? Or if I was holding on you too tightly?''

"Well now that you mentioned it…you kinda were. I thought I was going to pass out from the lack of oxygen because you were squeezing my neck so tightly.''

"Oh my God I'm so sowwy! I knew I was pwobably hurting you! I knew I shouldn't have gotten on your back-'' I apologized quickly.

"Hey take it easy!'' said Sisu, waving her claws in the air. "Calm down. I was just kidding buddy! You were fine!''

Sisu gave me a sheepish and apologetic grin. I let out a relieved breath, but now began to feel rather embarrassed about falling victim to such a harmless joke. I merely nodded and adverted my gaze from the blue dragon. After a moment, I heard Sisu ask.

"I'm sorry if I gave you a bit of a scare Lamar. You ok?''

"Y-Yeah…no, no you're all good Sisu. This day just keeps getting cwazier and cwazier for me that's all.''

Sisu gave me a comforting pat on my shoulder. "You poor guy. We'll let me get you to Heart. I'm sure you'll feel a lot better once we get there.''

I had followed my dragon guide and we were now trekking through the rainforest, parting leaves and bushes as me made our way through. The walk was mostly quiet, save for cheerful humming Sisu would do every now and then. I still couldn't hardly wrap my mid around it: I was walking next to an ACTUAL dragon! A creature I had long thought to be nothing but myths and fables and deep down…my excitement was bubbling like I had drank ten cans of soda. I wanted to ask her questions, but quickly decided against it. I didn't want her to think I was some creep, hell I probably looked like a creep. Nothing of great importance happened as we continued to walk, even the drizzle had ended again. We finally found ourselves out of the forest to which my eyes widened and jaw dropped at what I was now looking at.

The very first and probably the most fascinating thing I had noticed was a massive…what cliff? Or was it a mountain? Interestingly though, the mountain was curved and formed an arch of some kind. The mountain was decorated fully with green vegetation with…was that some sort of palace or castle near the top of the mountain? My awed gaze then lowered and I saw maybe ten feet before us were stone steps that led up to a large, stone bridge, the sided crafted in the shapes of large dragon heads. The curved mountain seemed to have been situated on a massive island while the hills and mountains of the mainland were seen nearby. On the luxuriant island I also saw numerous buildings and constructs of varying sizes. From what I could see, the buildings seems to possess a…southeast Asian appearance in infrastructure, which all of their color schemes seemed to be predominantly bluish green.

"Well Lamar we're here!'' Sisu beamed.

"That's the Land of Heart?!'' I asked.

"The one and only! Leaves you kinda speechless right?''

"You can say that again. That's pwobably the most beautiful place I've ever seen,'' I answered in amazement.

"And a great place for summer vacation,'' giggled Sisu. "C'mon Lamar! My girl Raya should be here somewhere.''

Raya…again Sisu mentioned that name. I wander what's she's like? Could she help with my predicament? Sisu seemed to drop her name rather enthusiastically, she must really be fond of this person. Sisu led me up the stone stairs, passing the large dragon head concretions that stood there silently and unmoving as if they were stalwart guardians. We crossed the other side of the bridge which led to a dirt path that seemed to guide to the collection of buildings. Richly green trees stood abundantly around the path and I again gazed upon the majestic mountain that stood over the island. The sight of the fiery sunset through space of the arched mountain truly gave a fantasy like beauty to the overall island. As we came upon what seemed to be a small community, people started to come into view. People. Humans! I was ecstatic that it was confirmed that there were indeed humans in this strange land. As I looked around I immediately noticed something about the locals: they were all of Asian ethnicity, or more precise Southeastern. From what I saw the people wore clothing that seemed to have been made in Southeastern Asia with one common thing: all their clothing were turquoise in color including their shoes that curved slightly at the tips. Was this 'Heart' land an Asian inspired country?

As Sisu and I came and walked among the growing crowd, they almost immediately took notice of us, but what happened completely caught me off guard. Everyone in view started to give a sort of…salute? Bringing their hands together to form an 'O' while bowing their head as they chatter in what seemed to be awe and excitement. Among the gasping and murmuring I heard various voices.

"L-Look! It's Sisudatu!''

"It's her! She came back again!''

"It's always an honor to have her visit us!''

I gazed around, perplexed at what I was seeing. I then looked at my dragon guide only to see her beaming as she looked around and addressed the passing people.

"Hey!''

"How you doing?''

"Looking good Janja!''

Wait…was Sisu some sort of sacred being here? I knew that in myths I've read dragons in some cultures were highly revered almost to god like degrees. I wonder if…

"Uh, Sisu?'' I began.

"What's up?'' answered Sisu, waving kindly at a group of children.

"Why's everyone bowing to you like that?''

"Wow you really must not be from around here. Well I don't to brag but we dragons are pretty revered around here…if ya know what I mean?'' Sisu answered with a cool, sly grin as she raked a claw through her mane with pride.

I widened my eyes. "Wevered?! L-like gods or something?''

"Well I don't know about all that but dragons here are-''

Before Sisu could finish, fell on my knees in a low bow, my head pressed against the cold ground. "I-I'm so sowwy Sisu!'' I spoke frantically. "I had no idea how sacred you were. I hope I hadn't said or did anything that offended you?''

"Geez Lamar take it easy!'' I heard Sisu hissed in my ear "Stand up dude you're embarrassing me…and you!''

I looked up at the water dragon and gave her a befuddled gaze. I then started to slowly climb to my feet. "B-but…I thought I may have…since you're so wevered and all…''

"Easy, easy! Sure people respect us, but you don't have to be so uptight about it,'' explained Sisu. "I mean don't get me wrong I AM a pretty awesome dragon with impeccable hair but I'm definitely not a god. Not even close.''

I just stared at Sisu for a moment or two then averted my eyes towards the ground, feeling completely embarrassed as I felt the heat coming to my face. Sisu then patted my back and I gazed at her to see she was giving me a thankful smile.

"But I do appreciate the gesture though Lamar. But please, just be yourself around me. After all, that's the only person you can be am I right?''

I flashed her a small, sheepish grin as I took her he wise words. "Well I'd like to be anyone but me, but I got you Sisu.''

I guess my comment took Sisu by surprise as she gave me a confused expression, cocking her head a bit. She then shifted her eyes and they widened a bit. "Don't be alarmed Lamar but I think your little over the top performance may have gotten you some looks.''

I looked towards where she was looking and sure enough, locals were giving me stares which for the most part seemed confused curiosity as they started to whisper amongst each other. From all the glances I started to feel a nervous anxiety starting to build up inside me.

"Looks like someone is already becoming popular,'' said Sisu with a sheepish chuckle.

I responded with a mutter. "I'm not the 'popular' type. Can we please go somewhere where I don't feel like some sort of fweak?''

"Oh yeah sure thing Lamar!'' answered Sisu. "C'mon let's keep moving. Raya's place is just near the base of that mountain.''

With no objection I quickly followed the friendly dragon as we continued our way through the town. I stayed closed to Sisu's side as I continued to get those on looking, probing stared. Some even had what looked like suspicious, untrusting frowns. I hope none of them were xenophobic. Sisu, on the other hand, was occasionally greeted with bows while the people presented those strange, 'O' shaped hand signs.

"Do they have to stare at me like that?''

"Well I supposed they've never seen a guy like you before. Heck I've never seen anyone like you before,'' chuckled Sisu. "And hey! That just makes you more unique here!''

I snorted. "Trust me, there's nothing unique about me. I'm just an unwemarkable, not so special bwotha.''

"Ok Mr. Self-deprecation here. And I thought I had it bad…sheesh,'' spoke Sisu through gritted teeth and looking a bit disturbed.

I merely shrugged. "I'm just telling the truth.''

We continued on our trek amongst the glancing locals. We passed by the bluish green architecture of the village's building, most with resting hill rooftops with gently curved corners while others possessed domes adorned with spires. I've also noticed that there were quite a few buildings that were being repaired. Some had damaged walls and foundations while others had damaged roofs. I wondered if this village was recently hit by a bad storm of some kind? Eventually we came to what seemed to have been the largest building in the town. With its sheer size it looked like a palace of some sort. My mouth dropped slightly as I was in awe of the brilliance the dwelling.

"Waya lives here?'' I asked.

"She sure does!'' answered Sisu. "Pretty sweet huh? Nice digs for a Chief and princess.''

"Pwincess?!"'

"Uh…yeah. Raya's father is Chief Benja, the leader of the Land of Heart. That makes Raya the princess of this land,'' explained Sisu, scratching her long neck.

''Sisu, why didn't you tell me I was going to meet a pwincess?!'' I asked frantically.

Sisu just gave a plain shrug. "I don't know. Why didn't you ask?''

My eye twitched as I gawked at the nonchalant dragon. I then groaned. "Gweat, now I'm going to make a fool out of myself in front of a princess!''

"C'mon show a little positivity big guy,'' Sisu said, putting a large claw on my shoulder. "Besides, Raya's not some frou-frou, waiting in a tower, losing a glass slipper at a ball kind of princess. In fact, she's kinda hardcore actually.''

"Is that so?''

"Totally! You're gonna like her, trust me,'' answered Sisu, giving me a warm smile.

With not much choice I just gave a heavy sigh, brushing off my still dame clothes in an effort to make myself somewhat presentable. Sisu then approached the spear wielding guards at the entrance of the palace, greeting her with a bow and hand sign.

"Hey there! Would you be so kind if you can tell Raya Sisu's here? I'd totally love to see her.''

"Of course mighty Sisu!'' The guards answered, bowing to her respectfully before turning around and whisking away into the interior of the palace.

"Thanks! You guys are awesome!'' Sisu called gratefully. She then turned to me and flashed me a wink and a grin. "Gotta admit…being a dragon definitely has its perks.''

We stood there in mostly silence as we waiting for Sisu's friend. I took a moment and gazed around at the tall, greenish blue pillars that held of the high rooftops. Tapestries bearing stylized designs hung down in between the pillars and danced gently in the breeze. I saw what I guessed were the attendants of the compound tending to various needs in the courtyard with some still eyeing Sisu and me and whispering to each other. To my surprise, Sisu had started to gently stroke my black dreadlocks, a looks of absolute intrigue and wonder upon her face.

"Uh Sisu…? What are you doing?'' I asked.

Sisu answered, fascination in her raspy voice. "Gosh. I've never felt anything like this before. What kind of hairstyle is this?''

"Er…it's just dreadlocks,'' I answered tonelessly.

"Oh my…this is so unreal! They feel kinda weird and yet…I can't stop touching them. I may have found a new pastime!''

I wasn't too keen about stroking my hair becoming a new form of entertainment, so I backed away from Sisu's gestures. "Yeah Sisu as much as I love feeling like a cat, you mind giving me a little personal space?''

"Oh right, right! Yeah, yeah sorry. My bad Lamar,'' apologized Sisu with a sheepish, toothy grin. "Personal space. Got it. Ok maybe just…one more time?''

I rolled my eyes with a deep breath. Soon footsteps reached our ears as the two guards hurriedly came back, followed by a man and young woman. The guards made a quick, respectful bow as the young woman ran forward, a look of excited joy on her face.

"Sisu!" she said as she ran and embraced the water dragon.

"There's my main girl!'' responded Sisu, returning the hug. "It's so great to see you. It's been a while.''

"Been a while? Sisi we saw you literally yesterday,'' the girl grinned.

"Uh…time goes by longer when you miss a friend?'' chuckled Sisu awkwardly.

At this the two shared a hearty laugh as they hugged again. I backed away timidly as I looked upon the girl known as Raya. Like everyone else I've seen so far she was of Southeast Asian descent. She appeared to be rather young, late teen's maybe? Her skin was tan, similar to caramel in color and possessed long, jet black hair that flowed freely down her back while some of the hair on the sides of her face were braided with golden claps. She wore a sleeveless, turquoise gown with matching pants that went down to her shins, leaving her ankles exposed. She was also wearing a dark blue sash around her waist while on her feet were shoes with the curled tip and matched color of her outfit. There might be a name for those kind of shoes but I digress. I also noticed that for her age she seemed to have a slightly muscular build with a gold band around her left triceps. In all I had to admit that she was…beautiful. Strikingly so with dark, brown eyes that were shining with elation upon seeing Sisu.

The man behind her looked pretty young himself, maybe in his mid-twenties and also Southeast Asian. He wore a light, turquoise sleeveless shirt, showing his muscular arms as gold lining ran along the collar and down the center. He was wearing a darker shade of blue, silky pants that went down to his calves with on his feet footwear similar to Raya's. Also like Raya, the man had jet black hair but his were tied in a topknot. He had a thin moustache with a small goatee on his chin to which both matched his hair in color. The man was noticeably well built, but also lean while a calm, serene smile was etched across his pleasant face.

"Great Sisu, it's always an honor to welcome you to our home,'' smiled the man, bowing with that 'O' hand greeting.

Sisu responded with a kind smile and a nod. "Thank you Chief Benja, but please you know you don't have to call me that.''

"Oh really? Then how about Oh Mighty Great Sisu of the Dragons?'' he asked with a rather slick smirk.

"Baa seriously?'' giggled, nudging the man called Chief Benja playfully.

Chief Benja laughed. "I'm kidding Dewdrop. But still, it's always a joy to see you Sisu.''

"Aw c'mere you guys!'' gushed Sisu as she wrapped the two in a group hug.

I just stood where I was as I watched the wholesome display. It honestly felt I was intruding on their time. I was contemplating just leaving when Raya's met mine to which I quickly averted my gaze to the floor.

"Oh who's this? Sisu did you bring him?'' asked Raya.

"Oh yeah! I almost forgot,'' answered Sisu, releasing the two before coming over to me, putting her large claws on my shoulders. "Raya, Chief Benja I'd like you to meet my new pal Lamar.''

I kept my gaze towards the ground as I heard footsteps approach me. I then looked up to see Raya smiling kindly at me. "Is that so? Well it's nice to meet you Lamar,'' said Raya, offering a slight bow.

I felt my face heat up a bit as returned a small smile. "Uh w-wight. Um thank you Pwincess Waya. It's nice to meet you too.''

"You don't have to call me 'Princess','' giggled Raya. "Just Raya will do.''

"O-Oh sure. No problem Pwincess Waya…I mean Waya!''

Sisu and Raya just chuckled at my fumble, making me embarrassed even more. Apparently Raya noticed this and came forward with a comforting tone. "But seriously, relax. You don't have to be so formal with us.''

"My daughter's right,'' Chief Benja began, walking up to me. "I'm Benja, chief of this land. As leader of Heart I would like to extend my warmest welcome to you.''

Chief Benja gave me a welcoming bow.

"Thank you sir,'' I said, returning the bow. "I'm sorry for showing up at your home unexpectedly. I'm also sorry if I disturbed you in anyway. I'll just leave so you two can go on with your day. Again I apologize.''

At first, the Chief of Heart merely looked confused before laughing. "It's quite fine Lamar. You didn't bother us, not in the slightest.''

"See? What did I tell you? You had nothing to worry about!'' chimed Sisu. "Besides you're all covered when you're with me.''

Sisu gave me a wink to which I grinned as Raya spoke. "What she said. Any friend of Sisu is a friend of ours.''

At this I felt myself starting to relax and offered a stronger smile at the Chief and Princess. As Raya continued to smile at me, the heat in my face rose as my heart started to pick up pace. Sisu then started to sniff the air before an eager, excited smile came to her face. "Doth my nose deceive me? Food?''

"Why am I not surprised?'' said Raya, rolling her eyes playfully. "We were about to have dinner. Would like to join us?''

"I thought you'd never ask! I'm in!''

Raya chuckled as Chief Benja turned to me. "How about you Lamar? We have plenty of food to go around,'' he offered kindly.

"O-Oh I wouldn't want to impose,'' I tried to decline before a loud growl sounded.

I quickly grabbed my stomach as I looked around embarrassed only to be met with amused grins.

"Your stomach might say otherwise,'' chuckled Raya. "So wanna answer that again Lamar?''

Though I still wanted to turn down the offer, I couldn't help but admit that I was indeed pretty hungry, especially after the kind of day I've been having. I took a deep breath and nodded. "On second thought, I could eat. Thank you Prin-er Waya and Chief Benja. I'd love to join you…if it's really no trouble?''

"All right!'' declared Sisu, clapping her claws happily. "Bring on the grub!''

Author's Note: Hello! I hope readers enjoy this first chapter of Dragon Heart. Please leave a review. Would love to read any and all thoughts that will help me to improve as a writer. Next up…Zootopia Chapter 7! Will be writing Dragon Heart and Zootopia back to back. Stay tuned!