Here's a brief Q & A for this chapter.
Storyteller 42: Thank you for the review. And Pyra is indeed going to join them after Ripto's rage. (Or earlier, if I am given an Idea.)
Also, thank you for the idea of the powers that the Dream Weavers use, including Ember. I might have those put to use in the future. Also, thank you for the one-shot idea that I could use in the future too.
Owyn Ross: You're welcome about the Scorch, and Shady Oasis backgrounds. I too got interested in putting them in when I saw the Spyro 2 Prototype gameplay on youtube.
Finally, Disclaimer: This is a non-profit fan based story. Spyro The Dragon was created by Insomniac Games, and is owned by Activision, and Toys For Bob. Please support the official releases.
Chapter 21: Satyrs, Fauns, Hills, and Volcanos
With both Scorch, and Shady Oasis done, it left Fracture Hills, and Magma cone, as the last two Realms to go to, (Not counting the other Speedway Realm.) before they were all done with Autumn Plains.
And they had to say, they were excited for more than one reason. As they were curious as to what they were going to find there, in Elora's old home Realm that they were all about to enter with Elora herself, along with Hunter III.
Not to mention a recently recruited Hunter IV, who seemed to be swallowing his pride, and was now on their side from here on out, as he was currently looking at himself in the mirror, like he was hoping he'll look good when he ends up going to Fracture Hills. It felt like he was finally ending his rivalry with them, in acknowledgement that they are the heroes that Avalar needs.
Which was good for them, as even though their rivalry was fun, it was getting annoying due to the Orbs that he bribed them with back in Aquaria Towers, and that he could've bribed them with back in Summer Forest if Elora didn't come along. Which would've left some of the Portals deactivated, and would've left them unable to go back to the Dragon Worlds because of it.
At least he didn't have them pay in Gems though, unlike Moneybags, so he was more tolerable in comparison. But still, the Orb challenges were getting under their skin. (Or scales, if you wanna get technical.) So they felt like thanking someone for setting him straight if they knew who it was. Either Hunter III, or Elora.
The latter of whom, was in the middle of taking deep breaths, like she was breathing off her nervousness. Which had Spyro wondering what is wrong with her. "What's up, Elora?" He asked.
"I'm doing fine. It's been awhile since I last visited my home in Fracture Hills, after all." Elora said.
"It is nice to be back though. Right?" Ember asked.
Elora nodded. "Indeed. There is much there, that I can tell you guys about, by the way." She said. "Especially when we meet my friends there. As well as my sisters that I've made, in my time of growing up in Fracture Hills."
The dragons were smiling at that, feeling interested in meeting the Fauns there, especially Cynder, who was wondering what they do, and what Elora was planning to show her, as she remembered her conversation back in Metro Speedway, as they all decided to enter the Portal to Fracture Hills.
Before they got to Fracture Hills, the sound of bagpipe music was filling the air as the Satyrs of Fracture Hills was playing their favorite instrument of their Realm, being the bagpipes of Fracture Hills, while the pigs, and the Fauns were dancing to the music, while some of them also played with their yo-yo's. It was a fun time for partying in the Realm.
That is, unless you're an Earthshaper. Whom, was covering his ears at the sound that the Satyrs were making with the bagpipes. And why not, as to them, the bagpipes were the loudest instruments they have ever heard. And that was even if they were to hear the tapping of the hooves on the dirt from them, and the Fauns, as they were now doing as they danced.
This time though, he was doing something about it, as he had a little something that a Sorcerer gave to him in his hand shortly before this moment.
And he was putting it to use now, as he was now walking to behind where the Satyr was playing, before pulling out what looked like a yellow stone ball, before tossing it up in the air, before using his pickaxe as a bat to send the ball flying.
Which flew right into the Satyr, before hitting him, and encasing him in yellow stone. Much to the pig's, and the Faun's horror as they looked at the Satyr in shock.
All while the Earthshaper was laughing to himself, at what he's done.
It's too bad that this is shortly before the dragons, Cheetahs, and the Faun arrived as they were now in Fracture Hills, where they immediately saw a night sky that was overhead. "Ah, nice to be here at night again." Elora said, having always admired the night time of Fracture Hills due to how beautiful it was in her eyes.
A sentiment that was echoed by Cynder, as she did feel fond of the night time in the Magic Crafters, as well as in the other Dragon Worlds that she, and her three friends goes to. Which sadly, was also a reason why she was an outcast among the Magic Crafters, other than her black scales, and her dark magic. After all, the other Whelps did say that dark sorceresses, and evil warlocks were fond of roaming the night, and sleeping in the day times. Which was a lie, at least in her case, as she does roam during the day herself. It's just that she's fond of roaming in the night as well, due to how pretty the night sky was, to her eyes.
She always felt bad for the dark, she admits. She was reminded that it's not evil in general. Just misunderstood. Something that she completely agrees with her friends on.
All while Ember, and Flame, admired the woods of Fracture Hills, finding them pretty looking at night. They even thought about having some dates here, after they take down Ripto.
Hunter, and his uncle meanwhile, were looking around, the former feeling glad to meet the Fauns again, if only for an opportunity to impress them.
They then saw a temple off in the distance that looked like it was encased in stone, blocking off the entrances into it, along with a petrified Satyr. Much to Elora's surprise at that. Then there was another female Faun nearby, who wore a short yellowish-green leaf dress, is blue furred, had raven black hair that was styled with a pair of braided pigtails, that trailed to her shoulders, had a pair of antlers on her head, a long tail like a bovine, and cloven black hooves. Who stood nearby, then got shocked at what she saw.
"Elora?! Mah goodness, it's ye!" She said, before jogging to her, before putting her in a hug that lifted her off the ground.
"Hi Lila. It's been a little while wasn't it?" Elora responded, cringing at how tight the hug from her big sister figure, was.
"Ah'll say. It's bin a month since we've last met. Where've ya been?" Lila asked.
"Oh, I was with the Professor, and Hunter, experimenting on stuff in Winter Tundra, then we were in Summer Forest going to Glimmer, because we were hoping to find some friends to help us fight Ripto, and send him out of Avalar." Elora responded. "Luckily, we were actually able to, as you can see." She then said, introducing her to the Four Brave Dragons.
"Oh, hello there little dragons. Ah admit, ye all look cute for Quadrupeds." Lila said with a smile.
Which had them all blushing at that. All while both Cynder, and Ember, was also surprised at what she said on the last sentence, like she either doesn't notice that they're girls too, or, she doesn't seem to care. Almost like if she was Bisexual, or something.
"Ah wish ah could take' ye on a tour o' our temple, but a bunch o' lousy Earthshapers just arrived from another place a few days ago, and have encased it in stone. And some of our Satyr friends got petrified too." Lila said annoyed on the last part. "If ye kin free th' Satyrs, I'm sure thay kin break th' stone off th' temple, 'n' we kin enter it again. We would be oh so thankful tae ye a' if ye kin dae that fur us." She said with a husky smile to the Quartet as she bent down towards them.
Which did bring some jealous chagrin from Ember, and Cynder, when they noticed her flirty gaze to them, even though they also blushed when they noticed her gaze to themselves too. While Elora was also feeling chagrin for the same reason. All while Hunter IV was feeling envy at the attention that they were getting from the Fauns.
All while Hunter III was merely relieved that they have come to Fracture Hills to save it.
After Spyro, and the rest of the dragons agreed to save Fracture Hills, Lila proceeded to smile. "Thank ye dragons, I'm sure we'll repay ye soon enough." She said as they were prepared to face of against he foes of Fracture Hills with Lila in tow.
But not before freeing the petrified Satyr, who thanked them for his freedom, before playing his bagpipes. Which, played a tune that was admittedly catchy for the dragons, regardless of how loud it was, before some pieces of a mountain in the distance ended up breaking off. Which showed some of the temple that was underneath the rock.
"Thaur are still some more satyrs trapped in stone. if ye can free more of us, we can open th' temple again." He said.
Which is what the Quartet, along with the Cheetahs and the Faun, decided to do, feeling that they could find a Talisman inside if they do.
The Quartet proceeded on through Fracture Hills, with Hunter IV in tow, as Hunter III went off into the Fracture Hills to free the other Satyrs, while both Elora, and Lila followed along, as they fought against a pretty familiar foe.
Which, were the bushes that tried to eat them. Like with the other bushes of the Misty Bog, that both Spyro, and Ember, remembered fighting. (Even though these ones had no sharp teeth shown when they lunge at them.)
Spyro was still relieved that Ember survived having nearly gotten eaten by the bushes. Since she later on became Flame's girlfriend before their fight against Gnasty. And he was sure that Flame would've been mad at him if he let her die.
Ember meanwhile, was glad that Spyro survived that journey too. As she was best friends with Cynder, while at the time, loving Spyro. And regardless of her sad dismay at her confession to Spyro, taking him from her before she could make a move, she was happy for her for winning his heart. And she valued her friendship with her, just as much as her loving relationship with Flame, and her at the time one sided love for Spyro. And she wouldn't have it any other way.
Cynder meanwhile, was thankful that Spyro was able to survive Misty Bog. Even though she did wish that she was there in Misty bog when they were still journeying through the Worlds to Gnasty Gnorc, considering how hard it was due to the Frogs. And how frightening at the time it was for Ember, due to the killer bushes.
All while Flame felt a little thankful that he wasn't there due to the bushes that could've scared the crap out of him too. But he also wished that he went there, with Ember since he would've been saving Ember from those things with all of his might. Even if he was terrified of them too.
Right now though, Ember and the rest of the dragons were walking through the path through Fracture Hills, alongside Hunter IV, all of whom, was being shown around by Elora, and Lila. (And using some pick up lines on Lila. Whom even though she wasn't spurning him for those lines, she wasn't biting in a figurative sense.)
Although she was seeing Elora's gaze towards Spyro, and Cynder. And noticed that it was a loving gaze. Which had her wondering if she love Spyro, like Cynder does.
If she did, then she felt nervous of how Cynder could react if Elora dared to make a move towards him.
But that wasn't important right now, as they continued to save each other from the killer bushes. With Elora shooting them with her Fire Arrows to burn them to a crisp, while she also kicked some of them as well, sending them flying pretty far. Which showed the dragons that she is pretty strong herself, as if her neck breaking move that she did to the Gear Grinders, back in Hurricos wasn't enough of an indication. And now she could kick a killer bush a good distance away from her.
Which had the Quartet thankful that they weren't her foes. While both Spyro, and Cynder blushed when they remembered the neck breaker on the Gear Grinder, and how sexy it was to their eyes.
And the trees with the beehives, that they tried to use against them when they get close. After all, they did hear that the bees' stingers were quite sharp to also pierce through rock. And sure their scales was quite tough, they also guessed that their scales were no exception.
As Flame also learned the hard way, as he got stung in the rear, much to his hurt dismay as his Sira turned blue, before he got his revenge against the trees with the fire balls against the beehives that they used against him, and the Quartet when they get too close, before burning them to ashes too, turning them into Spirit Particles.
Even though Spyro also casted his own spells on them, using the Shadow attack spell to attack the tree's shadow, and kill it, leaving a spirit particle behind. Much to Hunter IV's surprise.
He then remembered, that Spyro said that he was 'too cool' for sorcery. And yet he was casting spells alongside Cynder. Which had him shocked that Spyro seems to have changed his mind on using magic. And that he seems to be a wizard dragon himself, even though he heard from the dragons' conversation with Elora, during their exit from Summer Forest, that he was an Artisan dragon with a Peace Keeper attitude. So does he descend from a wizard dragon where he comes from? Hunter didn't know.
But he didn't dwell on it, as he continued to shoot the bushes, and the trees, in Fracture Hills in the upper sections. Seeming like it'd be easy for them.
But both of those enemies that they fought against on the upper sections of Fracture Hills, 'ain't got crap,' on the more dangerous enemy, and probably the most dangerous enemy they have met so far.
The Earthshapers themselves.
Whom were large rock monster golems that held pickaxes, had moss on their head, and backs, and were plenty in number in the lower sections of Fracture Hills, which gave them safety from them as long as they stay up in the upper sections, but there was plenty, showing that there were like a tiny army of them in the Fracture Hills, much to Elora's shock, and horror.
Even though the other Fauns were pretty Blase about the fact. Which does beg the question on how brave the female Fauns are, to be unimpressed by their numbers, let alone their imposing presence.
Especially since when the Quartet fought against them, they ended up getting squished and hurt by the pickaxes that the Earthshapers swung down on them. Which happened to them all, turning their dragonflies blue. Which was annoying enough as it is. But against another one that could do the same thing, which would make it a pain to fight them, as they all learned the hard way, turning their dragonflies green. (It was a good thing Flame got his butterfly from the pigs that he torched, not that the Fauns minded.)
But there's more. The Earthshapers were large, so they couldn't be broken into pieces when they charge into them, while they were also strong. So their elemental Breaths were not so useful, (Unless it is the ice breath.) at least in their standard means of attacks.
Not only that, but that made their Dragon Kata useless since they were heavy, and their stone bodies were tough. Which made fighting them not much of a good idea due to their durability. Something that they learned the hard way when they got hit by the pickaxes.
Some of them even sent them flying into the wall with the pickaxes. With Cynder, and Ember, bearing the worst of them due to the double teaming of the Earthshapers. Forcing them to retreat back to the upper sections for the pigs for both Spryte, and Starr. Before running back with her ranged attacks against the Earthshapers.
Their Fire Balls were able to do damage, weakening them for another to kill them, making them into Spirit Particles. The lightning javelins were a different story however, as they were ineffective. And even though their earth bombs were able to pick up the other enemies and tossed them into the sky to get crushed by their fall back down, the Earthshapers were too heavy for the tornadoes. But at least the ice darts were able to put cracks on them, leaving them open for a charge there to break them, or use their Dragon Kata on the cracks to break them too.
But they could also knock them into the lava pits that was in the lower sections of the Realm, which they were able to knock them into, causing them to fall in. And even though some of them screamed in fear at what was happening to them when they realized what was happening as they flailed around, the others merely realized their futility, and waved sadly at the group as they sunk, and shattered into pieces. But it was redundant, and annoying to knock them into the Lava. Which did test their patience.
Unless they use their ice breath on their feet, making them slip into the lava more easily due to the slipperiness of the ice, especially while wet and in the middle of melting.
Then there was the third option for both Ember, and for Cynder, where they casted their spells on the Earthshapers. Like the Confusion spell that both Cynder, and Ember casted, which caused the Earthshapers to attack each other. Which was effective as long as there was another Earthshaper for them to confuse into turning against each other.
And there was a fourth option, and it involved Hunter IV, A.K.A Gunther, and Elora, who shot their arrows at the Earthshapers, causing them to fall down onto their backs in pain, incapacitating them just long enough for the dragons to finish them off with their Headbash moves.
Which, both Cynder, and Spyro did back in Shady Oasis. And they decided to teach both Ember, and Flame on how to do the headbash before they entered Fracture Hills. Sure it was risky, but their heads, and their necks were okay, and they got the headbash down pat.
Not only that, but they also put their elemental power on the headbash move like they do with their Dragon Kata, to where they use their Earth elemental energy to reinforce their horns so that their headbash move will smash to the bone, and so that they reduce the risk of their skulls being broken.
That became their preferred way to take down the Earthshapers, as they thanked Hunter IV, and Elora, for their help. Much to Hunter, and Elora's delight. (Mainly since the former was becoming instrumental in beating the Earthshapers. And he was tempted to boast about it to the dragons. But he kept it to himself due to Elora's presence.)
Lila also helped too, as she too did some archery against the Earthshapers herself as they proceeded to free more of the Satyrs that was trapped in stone, causing them to play on the bagpipes to shatter some more pieces of rock that trapped the temple inside.
Which brought them closer to entering it for the Talisman.
Along the way through however, they encountered another Faun.
"Elora?! Oh, tis crakin' tae see ye again!" Another Faun said, whom was wearing a more green leaf dress, as she was hugging Elora when they got close. She looked like an energetic type of Faun to the dragons with the way she greeted her.
"Hello Spinner." Elora said. "It's nice to see you again, sister."
"Likewise. 'n' a'm glad that ye'r 'ere. Krista needs help!" Spinner said. "Ye see, she's trapped in there, and lost the key to that door! Don't you know how hard it is to find a locksmith at this time of night? Let alone, at this time while the Earthshapers are causing a ruckus?!" She then said, pointing to the large stone hut with a large door with gaps in it, showing another Faun inside, whom was wearing an orange leaf dress.
"Elora? Is that ye? Have ye come to let me out?! That'd be very kind of ye, if ye do!" Krista said.
Elora was shocked to see that Krista was trapped, and needed help. "Is there anything we can do?" She asked.
It took a second of thinking. But Krista had an idea. "Thare is a supercharge gate that isn't far from 'ere! yer cute friends cuid use it tae batter this door down!" She said, pointing to the nearby Supercharge gate. Which was convenient.
"Is there a path that may lead to the door?" Spyro asked.
"Thare is a walkway that aims to this door. A'm certain that the path ahead of the Supercharge gate leads to-" She explained.
Only to end up seeing a sudden explosion of Fireballs that collided against the door, blasting a gap in it that she was then able to use to get out of the stone hut. "Or that could happen tae, ah guess. " She then said before getting hugged by Spinner, and Elora, both of whom were relieved that she was okay.
"Don't worry, A'm not hurt. I just feel a little hungry." She said, before turning to the dragons. "Thank ye for breaking the door down. I thought I could be trapped in there forever. By the way, I found this in here." She then said, showing the group another Orb.
"That's an Orb! We were looking for it!" Elora said excitedly. "Can you give it to us please? We did save you after all."
Krista briefly thought about what she said. "Of course Elora, please take it." She said, giving the Orb to Elora, before blowing a kiss to the dragons, making them all blush at the gesture since it was aimed at all of them. Which had them feeling that she too could be bisexual.
All while Hunter was tempted to flirt with her, along with the other Fauns, but he knew that she isn't going to figuratively bite. After all, it was the dragons that did the work. He just needed to find his opportunity to impress.
"UNCLE!?" Hunter IV said in shock.
This wasn't that opportunity, as he was in a section of Fracture Hills that was near the Alchemist's hut. Where he was now in the little alcove room alongside Flame, and Ember, with Spyro, Cynder, and Elora off to save more of the Satyrs, where he saw that his uncle was inside, except much to his horror, and much to the dragons' surprise, he was stuck in one place due to the heavy rocks that buried his feet under it.
Other than that though, he wasn't wounded, and the nearby Earthshapers were leaving him alone, likely since they were too busy with their antics, or they felt that he's no longer a threat since he was trapped. But he still is, he just needed to be freed first. But the rock was too strong for either Flame, or Ember's charging horns, and their fireballs could blow up Hunter III if they try to use them. And who knows what else they could do to him if they use their other ranged breath attacks? So they felt that they need another way.
"Don't worry Nephew. I am not hurt. I just needed to find some sort of potion that can help with freeing the other Satyrs from their petrification, with help from the Alchemist. But… the Alchemist tested one of his potions out on me, leading to the opposite result." Hunter III said annoyed.
"Is there anything we can do?" Flame asked, not wanting to leave Hunter III to his fate.
"The Alchemist is in that hut over there. He has the potion that you need to free me. He is a klutz though, as well as a bit of an idiot, so try to forgive him if he screws up." Hunter III said.
The half of the group kept that in mind as they were now headed to the hut, that wasn't far away before they were now interacting with the Alchemist who was smiling as he had his bottle of a potion inside.
"Ah, nice to see you young cheetah warrior. I have just made this little potion to help your friend. However, the Earthshapers are around, and are making going outside pretty difficult. Can you protect me from them?" He asked.
"Anything to make sure that my uncle is going to be free." Hunter IV said. Sure he wasn't quite fond of his uncle last time, considering his more serious attitude, and being difficult to impress, especially with his skating skills. As well as the fact that he was banished from his tribe according to him. But he still loved his Uncle nonetheless. And he hoped that he'd free him, partially to make up for his antics towards the dragons as they try to fight Ripto.
"Great! Do keep those Earthshapers off of me, while I take potion to your uncle." The Alchemist said before he was now skipping out of his hut.
The two dragons, and Hunter IV did as they were told as they kept the Earthshapers at bay. Which wasn't much hard since Hunter was able to use his arrows against the Earthshapers, while both Ember, and Flame remembered to use their earth enhanced Headbash moves against them. It wasn't an easy experience though, for at least two reasons.
One, the Alchemist was an idiot. Since, instead of taking a straight path to the alcove where Hunter's uncle was, he ended up skipping merrily around in a sort of path of his own, like he was going to water the flowers before going to his uncle. And that got under not only his skin, but also the dragons' as well. Hunter IV admits that he's a bit of an idiot, but compared to the Alchemist, he feels like a genius.
And two, the Earthshapers were all over the place, as this section of Fracture Hills has the most Earthshapers walking around. And they all attempted to use their pickaxes on not only the Cheetah, and the dragons, but also the Alchemist. And considering the idiotic path that he took, that latter task for them was getting easy.
There was a few close calls, but the Alchemist was untouched, along with the potion that he had in his hands, while a couple Earthshapers that tried to take him down, got taken out by the archer, and headbash combo of the dragons.
"I've gotta say, we make a great team." Hunter IV said as he shot another Earthshaper.
"Yeah, you aren't wrong on that part, pal." Flame responded, headbashing another one alongside Ember.
"And about time to. This would've been a nightmare if you weren't part of our group. And if you continued your rivalry." Ember said, annoyed at the Alchemist for the path that he was taking.
"I agree. And it's due to this idiot." Hunter IV said, also feeling annoyed at him as he kept on skipping around.
It was a few minutes of protecting the Alchemist, until he was able to get to the alcove where Hunter III was, before pouring the potion on the stone that held Hunter III in place, hoping that his potion is going to shatter it.
Luckily for the dragons, it did. And Hunter III was free as he was now getting hugged by Hunter IV. All while the Alchemist was now skipping back to his hut.
Even though he ended up getting petrified by the Earthshapers on the way there.
"Are you okay Uncle? How do you feel?" Hunter IV asked.
"I'm fine Nephew. My feet feels better too, now that the stone is no longer pinning them in place." Hunter III said. "By the way, I got these from the other Satyrs that I freed before meeting up with the alchemist. I planned to give them to the Alchemist, but you're all too important to not give these to. Including you nephew. And because I'm still feeling annoyed at him at the moment." Hunter III said, giving them all a pair of Orbs.
Much to the dragons' joy at that, while Hunter IV was also smiling in joy at what his uncle said about him. After all, he knew that his uncle was hard to impress, but he was happy to know that his uncle didn't outright hate him. Even if he didn't help the dragons much.
Which had him feeling a little reluctant in wanting to challenge the dragons to what he had in mind, when they get to Magma Cone next.
Right now though, they were now bringing their fight back to the Earthshapers, as they were now shooting their arrows at them, after freeing the Alchemist from Stone.
"Now that you've freed all of us from stone, you all oughta go into the temple." The Satyr said happily to the dragons, and Fauns.
Much to Elora's relief as she was thankful that the temple was now free from being encased in stone. And that they were able to free it from the Earthshapers, that she was sure, was sent here by Ripto. Which also meant that they were now able to gain the Talisman of Fracture Hills.
Which was delighting to hear for the dragons, as it brings them closer to defeating Ripto, and getting back to the Dragon Worlds, as they were now in front of the Temple as they met another Faun at the front of it, with this one wearing a purple leaf dress. "Sheila! Thank goodness you're okay!" Elora said, hugging her out of relief.
"Elora?! Ye're back?! Ah didn't think you'd return!" Sheila said. "And a'm guessing that you helped free the Temple?"
"Indeed. I had some help though." Elora said, introducing her to Spyro, and Cynder.
"Ah, top of the evening to ya, wee cuties." She said, making them both blush at that. While Elora felt some jealousy at that. It seemed to the dragons that the Fauns were either bisexual, or seemed quite fond of dragons, regardless of their genders. "A'm sure ye'r a' expecting fur me tae be like, 'Ye're mah heroes, thank ya fur saving poor helpless wee me.' sorry cuties, ah was in thare fur some peace, 'n' quiet when th' temple got encased in stone, trapping me inside."
"Ye always were a bit of a mellow Faun among us that preferred the quiet." Lila said. "By the way, ye have the Talisman, right? If so, then will you give it to Elora? She told us that she, an' the cute dragons were lookin for it."
"Of course ah do. Ah kept it safe in the temple with me, just in case the Earthshapers would try to take it. Go ahead, and take it. It's the least I can do for ya since ye saved me." Sheila then said, giving Elora the Talisman. Much to her joy, as they were now getting closer to fighting, and defeating Ripto.
The Fauns were now in the middle of their little victory party that they threw now that the temple was no longer encased in rock. The Earthshapers were also defeated as they were now on one of the islands on the Lava as they were covering their ears at the sound of the bagpipes playing. All while the dragons were nearby, fraternizing with the Fauns, alongside Elora herself as they told the dragons about themselves. While they also danced together, out of practice, which was a bit messily at first due to their clumsy dancing on their hind legs.
But they were starting to get a bit better at that.
All while the dragons were noticing how close the Fauns were to the Satyrs. It was like they were romantically close to each other. Even though the female Fauns were already hooked up with the Satyrs one by one.
Which begged the question, why is it that the Fauns looked romantically close to the Satyrs, even though there was at least a few of them?
A question that they planned to ask them, once they were done dancing together in celebration, but they felt that it'd take pretty long, so they decided to ask before the highlight could happen.
"Changing the subject, do any of you have a boyfriend?" Flame asked curiously.
All of the Fauns ended up nodding at him, while Elora ended up blushing.
"Could it include those Satyrs right here? Are there male Fauns here in Avalar? And could it include Hunter?" Spyro asked.
The Fauns ended up nodding at both of those questions, but shook their heads at the third one, much to the Quartet's amusement, as Elora was now ready to speak to the Quartet.
"You mean, you were asking if they each have one boyfriend? If so, then not really… because in this world… we exist in romantic groups known as harems." Elora confessed.
At the last part, the Quartet was at first confused at what she means by that. And they were prepared to ask, when they ended up realizing what the last word means. Causing them to get surprised, and shocked at what they just learned from Elora. "Y-you mean? A harem?" Spyro asked out of shock.
Elora nodded. Before seeing Cynder walking off a bit, wanting to be alone for a little bit to absorb the information. While Spyro followed her after noticing. Which had Elora following out of concern for her. Even if she knew that Cynder might want to be alone for that. Even though she could be accepting Spyro to follow But she wanted to make sure that she'd be fine. All while the rest of the Quartet ended up absorbing the information together.
"Wait, you never heard of one before?" Spinner asked curiously.
"Well, we have, we just forgot about it. A-After all, we didn't think we'd meet some folks like you that would be in such a group." Flame said with a blush.
While meanwhile, Cynder was sitting near the temple, taking in what she just heard from the Fauns alongside Spyro. Both dragons still felt surprised, and shocked at what they heard about from the Fauns. They didn't think that they'd end up meeting a harem of creatures, such as Fauns, during their journey through Avalar. And she didn't think that they'd be friends of Elora's.
"Cynder? Spyro?" Speaking of whom, Elora was now by their side as she sat with them.
"So… back in Metro Speedway, when you said that we'd speak about 'this' when we get to Fracture Hills, you were referring to this?" Cynder asked, just getting over her shock.
"You guys were talking about this in Metro Speedway while we dealt with those cats?" Spyro asked.
Elora nodded to both of them. "I'm sorry that I didn't warn you both ahead of time before we got here. I just didn't have the heart to make the atmosphere in the other realms, become awkward when I explain what my sisters, and my friends have here."
"It's… it's alright. I'm just surprised, and weirded out at what we learned. You guys do you, I guess." Cynder said with Spyro nodding in agreement on the last part.
"Isn't there any harems, back where you come from, at least?" Elora asked curiously.
Both dragons thought about that for a minute, before answering. "Only two kinds of our dragon people, has ever practiced harems before." Cynder said.
"And who were they?"
"The Peace Keepers, and the Beast Makers." Cynder responded. "But in the former's case, it had to happen. They were a little low in numbers at the time when the decree was passed. And harems were made in order to restore the number of dragons to their former glory. After that, they went back to being companions." Cynder explained about the Peace Keepers.
"But the Beast Makers, were a different story. They were still pretty plentiful in number. But they still had their share of harems among them, without a care for how just plain barbaric it was. I even heard that uncle Bruno, has at least three mates in his harem. It's true. And it's crazy." Spyro finished for her.
"Wow." Elora said surprised.
"As for the Artisans, the Magic Crafters, and the Dream Weavers, they did entertain the idea, only when they are in a similar rough spot that the Peace Keepers were in. Even though my people in the Magic Crafters did say that they aren't going to be trying it out anytime soon." Cynder said.
"But what about you though?" Elora asked.
"Being honest with you, I didn't entertain the idea myself. I mean, sure I might've imagined it a few times, but I have Spyro already. And it's good enough for me." She said, hugging Spyro to her as he smiled at her, despite having thought about Elora in her imagination in Metro Speedway. But she felt that it's just minor thoughts, and that Elora is just a companion. "Besides. Like I said in Metro Speedway, I'm sure you'll find a lucky Faun, or Satyr, to someday steal your heart. Right?"
"Yeah… right." Elora said, even though she would like to admit it to them sometime soon.
She doubts that she'll have a Faun lover in the future. Mainly since beforehand, she was more interested in keeping Avalar stable, among other stuff. And none of the Fauns did strike her fancy to where she'd like a Harem with them. Let alone, create such a thing herself.
And yet, when she first met Spyro, and Cynder, among the other dragons, and when they agreed to save Avalar alongside herself, she started to change her mind on harems, and hoped that she will have one with both dragons someday, probably before, or after this journey.
She admits, a part of her hoped that the 'before' part will happen.
"But still, this is surprising that you, and your sisters would do this. I didn't think that we'd end up meeting a Harem of girls when we agreed to save Avalar." Spyro said.
"Neither did I." Elora said. "But if there is a chance, even if it's small, that… you, and Cynder might create one yourselves, could you guys think about me?" She then asked.
Both dragons were surprised at the question, that they were sure, was just a curious question, and not some sort of hopeful one that she wants to happen, before speaking. "We'll… think about it." He said, hoping to either have an answer next time, or that Elora may forget about having such with Spyro, and Cynder herself as they travel through Avalar.
All while Cynder was surprised, but she didn't take that question seriously since it was probably a teasing one, or just out of curiosity that Elora asked. After all, Cynder didn't entertain the idea of a harem, let alone one with Spyro, and Elora, when they went to Avalar. And even now, she still wasn't sure if she is ready for one.
Even though a part of herself did feel like saying yes.
"Are you sure that you may-" Elora tried to ask.
But a few Fauns came to announce that they were starting their dancing, and that Cynder should come join in. Which she did after some pulling. "Saved by the bell." She thought.
The fauns continued their dance, when they decided to ask Elora something.
"By the way Elora, have you told them of how ye got here?" She asked her curiously.
"Only the part where I was found in Fracture Hills in a basket." Elora responded. "We were planning to tell them more, once we get here though. And by we-"
"Ye mean ye, Spinner, Krista, Sheila, and I. Very well. Fancy a little storytime from us Fauns, cuties?" Lila asked.
The Quartet blushed once again from the flirty question. But they weren't going to say no to them as they nodded. "Sure thing."
"Great! Okay, Ya see, it started when ah was still at least hip high to the full grown Satyr, when we were going on a picnic together." She said, explaining the story of how she found Elora.
*Flashback*
Two figures was walking along, and over the hills, not too far from the large forest, as they were about to set up a little picnic at their destination of one of the hills.
The bigger figure was a male Satyr, who was brown furred, with a raven black beard, and wore a green short sleeved tunic. He had a picnic basket in his hands, and a bagpipe on his back. He was looking around, trying to find a place to rest, and set up their little picnic.
While the smaller one, was a young female Faun, whose name was Lila.
And she was one of the young girl Fauns that resided in Fracture hills alongside the Satyrs. And she was following one to the hill that they were going to be on, for their picnic. And she was currently licking her lips a little bit, looking forward to enjoying her food that she was going to snack on, once they get to the tallest hill that they were going towards, for their picnic.
It was a hill that they often go to, for picnics. Which gave it the nickname, 'Picnic Hill' from the young Fauns, and the Satyrs.
"Ur we thare yet?" She asked.
"Patience Lila. We're almost tae the Picnic Hill. Soon, we'll be snacking lik' th' rich folk." The Satyr responded.
"But it could take long to get there, considerin that we've no ridin animals, or vehicles of our own." She said impatiently.
"Trust me, its not a long journey to th' hill for a picnic." The Satyr said. "Till then, mynd if we play some ah spy, to pass th' time?"
Lila did enjoy the I spy game with her friends, whether it was her fellow Fauns, or the Satyrs. So she nodded as she looked around. "Ah Spy with mah wee eyes, something green, full of leaves, and oftentimes, makes motions o' shimmyin'."
"A livin bush. An' we mind their presence, and remember what we should never dae aroond a bush lik' that, right?" The Satyr responded.
"Aye. We never git tae close tae a hungry one, otherwise we git eaten." Lila responded, having heard it a couple times.
The Satyr smiled at her. "Ya learn well little one. I knew ye were one 'o the smartest 'o the girls. Keep goin."
"Okay. Ah spy with mah wee eyes, a large standing brown object that is almost as tall as a home, An' is hoaching with leaves… and has a hive next tae it…"
"One of those livin trees. An' quite the th' territorial ones at that. So if thay start tae shake those hives, run. Or you'd be needin some ice fur their stings. Trust me, ah learned that th' hard way meself. Let's keep goin." He said, already enjoying the game.
"Ah spy with mah wee eyes… a yellowish tan… item made out o' straw. An' happens to be designed to carry things." Lila then said, seeing something that interested her as she started to walk to it.
"A basket. Like th' one in mah hand. I wonder if you were lookin at this-" He was saying, only to suddenly see that Lila was headed off towards the forest. "Lila?! What're ya-" He asked, only to see what she saw.
Another basket was on the ground, close to one of the trees of the forest. And Lila was headed towards it, looking at it in curiosity, before being followed by the Satyr as he looked at it himself.
"Who in bonnie blazes, would leave their basket on the ground?! And when could they be coming back for it?" The Satyr asked. Only to receive a shrug in return, as Lila didn't know either. "Welp, let's carry that basket to Picnic Hill, and wait for the Satyr, or Faun to take it back, otherwise, finders keepers."
Lila couldn't really help but agree with him on that. After all, if nobody is going to look for that missing basket, then what is the point of leaving it there, if you're bound to forget having left it there for safety to begin with. "Finders keepers indeed, dad." Lila said, picking the basket up, feeling how tiny bit heavy it is in her arms, like a bunch of food was inside of it.
It's going to be one heck of a picnic if that was the case. But something else could be inside of it. She just wants to know what it could be as she was now walking the rest of the way with the Satyr, whom she sees as like a father to her, despite not being related.
But she didn't care.
It took some minutes of them walking, when they were now on the hill they were looking around at the views. Which, continued to have them admiring the scenery of the place as they sat up the blanket for the Picnic. Soon, the blanket had food on it, and the Satyr and Faun was now feasting away at the food that they packed with them before their trek to the Picnic Hill.
As they ate, the Faun was feeling a bit curious about what food was inside the basket that they took with them that laid beside them. "Okay Lila, go ahead an' see what food is inside."
Lila obeyed as she was now looking in the basket after opening the door, but instead of seeing food, she instead saw some soft straw inside of the basket, along with a pair of cloven hooves, and red furred legs. Much to her surprise at seeing them, as she was wondering what it could be that was inside. So she opened more of the basket.
That's when she realized that inside the basket, wasn't food.
"What's th' haud up, lila? " The Satyr asked, confused on why Lila isn't giving him food.
"Uh, dad? Ah dinnae think this picnic basket is holding food." Lila said, showing the Satyr what she found, much to his own surprise.
Inside the basket, wasn't food. It was a baby Faun.
But not an ordinary one, it was a baby Faun, that was red furred, while lacking her antlers. And it also had a more shorter tail that was more fluffy looking as well. And she was currently asleep while covered only by a little blanket that she was resting under. It was like she could be indecent under the blanket.
"Wha?! A baby Faun? What's she doin in there? An' why is her fur red?" He asked, scanning his eyes over the Faun. "And it looks to be at least a year old."
"That's the same age, as Spinner, an' Sheila. Who in bonnie blazes would leave their baby alone near the woods?" Lila asked out of shock.
"Beats me. A'm sure they had a good enough reason to do that. At least they should, otherwise, they're definitely poor parents." The Satyr said, angrily on the last part. "Thank goodness we've found th' baby though, since ah hope that her parents are lookin fur her. As we kin give her back tae her kin, once we meet them."
"And if we can't find 'em?" She asked curiously.
"Well, ah hope ye won't mind havin one more sister added to yer life, then." The Satyr responded. Much to the Faun's joy.
*Flashback over*
"As ye can tell though, her parents weren't around. And they have yet to come here for her. So we've gone through with adopting her into our family, making her one of us." Lila said.
"And she was a good sister for us. Sure she was a bit serious, especially compared to us, but she's still a playful sister for the most part." Krista said.
"Especially while we're together. I always loved it when she jokes around with us." Spinner said.
The four dragons were surprised at what they learned, as during the story, they were now dancing with the female fauns, and Elora. (After all, why not?) Even though they also learned that Elora was indeed from somewhere else, considering their fur colors, and the lack of Antlers for Elora.
Not to mention her different tail, and the ability to bond with a dragonfly, that they still feel disbelief on, when they think about it, and see Stern with her.
Which reminded them. "So, what makes her different from you guys? Other than the fur, antlers, and tails?" Spyro asked.
The Fauns had to think about it for a bit as the party continued on. "Well, other than what you have just mentioned to us, we don't really know. In fact, we didn't really ask ourselves on why she was in the basket, or where she came from. All we know, is that we found her as a baby, and adopted her." Krista said.
"But we did joke among each other, that she could even have a dragon for a grandfather. Or that she might've been one as a baby." Lila said, remembering the jokes that was aimed at Elora's expense, much to even Elora's own amusement.
The Quartet was also amused at the jokes that they made. But they did wonder if the jokes had some shred of truth to them. Which, would be one hell of a coincidence if it was the case. Which left only a few questions.
Would she descend from a dragon father, or mother? Or could the parent descend from a dragon? Or could she have been born a dragoness, and turned into a Faun, while still a baby?
Those questions had to wait, since they continued dancing with the Fauns, which consisted of circular dancing around with the Fauns. Elora included as she was dancing with Spyro, while the other respective Fauns danced with each of the four dragons as they were getting better at their dance.
Elora had to admit, Spyro was getting better at this as they danced. Which did cause her to love him more.
Which got a bit faster in their twirling as the time of dancing went by, as the Earthshapers on the island was also starting to join in, as they soon danced themselves on the island to the music of the bagpipes.
Moments passed, before they then got spun around a bit on their hind legs, which had them feeling dizzy from the motions of their spinning around before falling to the ground on their backs. "We're okay." Spyro said as they were able to get back up on their hind legs after shaking the stars out of their vision. "I have to admit it, that was pretty fun to dance with you girls even if we have to stand on our hind legs to do it. But we're getting better."
"Uh, Spyro?" Flame asked, noticing something different about each other.
"Yeah Flame? What-" He tried to ask, only to then notice the same thing about each other too, alongside Cynder, and Ember.
They were standing. Not on all fours, but on just their hind legs. Like the grown dragons do. It seems that their dance with the Fauns has helped them with their balance, to where they became bipedal now. Much to their amazement, and shock. Even Elora, and the other Fauns, were surprised at the sight. Along with Hunter, and his uncle, who was also in the background, witnessing the party, when that happened. (The former of whom, failed to score with any of the Fauns.)
"Wow. You're all standing. And on your hind feet no less. Has that time came already?" Elora asked, referring to the time when they can walk on their legs when at the necessary age.
"If that's the case, then that's amazing! I didn't think that it'd be now of all times to learn how to stand!" Spyro said, feeling that it's about time that they can stand on their feet.
Which was echoed by the rest of the Four Brave Dragons as they started to celebrate, continuing their dance with the now proud Fauns in Fracture Hills as the Earthshapers also danced. Since it meant that since they can walk on their hind legs now, their Dragon Kata training is now getting better because of it. Not to mention how it's now easier for both Ember, and Cynder to hold their wands.
Now if only they could actually fly.
The now Bipedal Four Dragons, Elora, Hunter III, and his Nephew, was now back in Autumn Plains as they were now in front of the Portal to Magma Cone. Another Realm of the Fauns that Elora remembers staying in throughout her life in, too.
All while the dragons noticed that now that they were on two legs, they noticed their height compared to Elora. Where they then saw that they were almost just as tall as her, now that they were standing up on their feet. Which wasn't too surprising as they felt that they'd be as tall as a Faun once they learn to stand on only their feet.
Not only that though, but they also ended up noticing that they were around each other's height, with Spyro being the tallest among them, being around Hunter III, and IV's height, while Ember was the least tallest among them to where she was only being around Elora's. But still capable of fighting well, and hard against their foes.
As much as Ember wished that she was taller, she knew that her height will increase in the future when she grows up. Besides, it's not important to think about.
Right now, they had only saving Magma Cone, and their upcoming fight against Gulp, (After completing the second Speedway in Autumn Plains that is.) to think about, as they were now jumping into the Portal.
Before the group arrived in Magma Cone, things were pretty peaceful, as a pair of Male Fauns were laying under their parasails that was stabbed into the ground.
One of them though, was feeling the ground vibrate a bit, and was looking up, seeing that there was some smoke up in the sky, and it was coming from one of their volcanos. Much to his surprise.
"Hey, something's 'eadin' wrong 'ere!" The Faun said, gesturing to the volcano, while having an Irish accent, unlike the Scottish ones of Fracture Hills.
"It's prahbably joehst a small quake. joehst ignore it." The other Faun said sleepily, as he napped again.
But the first one didn't listen, as he was looking up at the volcano smoke again, seeing if it's what he thinks it is, as he felt the rumbles again.
Then suddenly, a red hot rock of lava suddenly popped out of the volcano's mouth, and it was headed their direction, much to the Faun's horror as he was looking on in terror when he noticed that the rock was headed for them.
"AAAHHH!" He screamed like a little girl for a bit when it was getting closer, before it landed…
right beside him, on the napping Faun.
After looking away while braced for a bit, he ended up noticing that he was alright. And that the rock missed him. Causing him to feel relieved as he decided to resume his nap. Not noticing his buddy that got crushed under the rock.
The whole group were now in Magma cone as they were in a lower section of the first area of Magma Cone. They were going to go up the ladder when they met one of the other male Fauns.
"Ah, Elora! Tahp o' de mornin to ya." One of the male Fauns said near the ladder. "I'm guessin that you're 'ere for the party?"
"Wait! There was a party happening here, Loonie?" Elora asked, saying the name of the male Faun.
"Aye. There was indeed. Or there would've been, if those darn Earthshapers didn't come along, and set avf the volcano. Now it's speweng out smohke, and launch'eng out lava rocks. And if nothings dwan about it in an hour, then the lava might come next." Loonie said.
Elora was horrified at the smoke that was being made. And she, and the cheetah's were also scared at the threat of the lava being made if they don't do anything about it.
"Count us in Loonie! We'll save this place together!" Elora said with the cheetahs in agreement. While the dragons also agreed with her.
"Excellent! Joehst make yooehr way through, until ya get to the Elevator to the room with the volcano. There is a lid on the top ov it that you can use to seal it. That should deactivate it, and save the Magma Cone, and the party." Loonie said happily.
As was Elora, feeling that they could save this whole realm from its gruesome fate that the Earthshapers would cause with the volcano. And since the Magma Cone is her second home, she would be fighting hard to save it.
Immediately after getting to the main area of Magma Cone, they saw that there was other Earthshapers around, except those ones had mallets as their weapons. Much to the dragons' chagrin since they hated them back in Fracture Hills. And they hate them even now.
At least though, they had help.
Not only from Elora, Hunter, and his uncle, but also from the other male Fauns.
Even though, they also had some smaller Earthshapers that was also among them. And they too were pains, due to their rock throwing. Which hurts, and did turn Elora's dragonfly blue. Much to both Spyro, and Cynder's chagrin as they clobbered the small ones with their charging horns in revenge.
They might be bipedal now, but they still run on all fours if they sprint, or charge their horns at their enemies. They preferred doing that, over sprinting on their hind legs after all. So far at least.
While for the Earthshapers that were larger, they either gone with their original tactics of using Elora, Hunter, and his nephew's archery to incapacitate the Earthshapers, or using their spells to defeat them that way too.
Including using the fear spell on the Earthshapers, along with the fear soldier one, courtesy of Cynder. Which summoned an out of nowhere drill that destroyed the Earthshaper that she casted it on. Seems that even Earthshapers know what fear is, and what it feels like.
Which was relieving to know, before they continued onwards through the whole realm, with the male Fauns also helping the group, by also destroying the Earthshapers along their way to the mountain, with either the large lava rock on the first one, or a wrecking ball for the second one, or even a jackhammer for the third one, to destroy them for the dragons, and Elora, while they also collected the Gems on the way there as well.
They also climbed to the upper levels around the little mountain architecture to where they were on the upper section of the Magma Cone. The ladders, was also easier to navigate due to their new bipedal abilities. They had to admit, they were pretty excited for more of their future as bipedal dragons as they saw more of the Earthshapers getting destroyed by the male Fauns. Much to Elora's delight as she too fought against the Earthshapers. Especially the smaller ones.
Whom, threw some blue lava rocks, which hurt, but they were able to take them all down too along the way. Especially Elora herself, who also showed her fighting strength with her legs, putting the small ones in a headlock with them as she squeezed the holy tartarus out of them, before they shattered like rocks, right in front of both Cynder, and Spyro.
Which they had to admit, it looked hot, especially when Elora does it.
Until they came across the ladder that lead to the bridge that led to the bridge that was connected to the cone like mountain architecture, and lead to the room with an elevator inside it. Only for them to suddenly see a familiar face on the way there.
None other than Moneybags himself.
Whom was unconscious since he was knocked out by one of the Fauns, who was currently dragging his form aside. "Sahrry abooeht that, guys. We were just clobberin one of th' Earthshapers when he got conked by won of 'em. It's okay though, he was planning on bribin ye all for th' elevator. So it serves him roight." The male Faun said, dragging away the bear. "The elevator's active in case yer wonderin. So use it as much as ye loike."
The dragons were quite happy about that happening, alongside Elora, and Hunter III, when the latter two learned about what Moneybags had the dragons do, in order to get to Zephyr, and Shady Oasis. So they were glad to see Moneybags get his just deserts for the bribing. Even Hunter IV was amused at that sight, since he wasn't fond of him either.
Soon, they were inside the room as they took the elevator separately, with Spyro, Cynder, and Elora going first, before Flame, Ember, Hunter III, and IV, also went down since there was enough room.
Once they were done with the elevator, they were now in the next section of the Magma Cone, where they were now seeing the Volcano itself. Which had ladders all over it, with a pair of them going all the way up to the mouth of the Volcano, showing them a way to the top.
"Okay guys. We need to close that lid on the Volcano. If we don't, Magma Cone will find itself buried under hot lava. And my people would be forced to move to the other Realms in Avalar, probably including Fracture Hills." Elora said initially sorrowful, before getting determined. "I'll go up. Spyro, Cynder, can you both protect me from the Volcano's rocks that falls down?" She asked.
Both dragons nodded. Before they were now leaping over the lava alongside Elora, while the rest of the group watched from the entrance, as they saw the dragons, and Elora now making their way along the ladders, avoiding the large lava rocks along the way. Each of which, would've brought harm to the dragons, and the leader of Avalar, if they didn't have their dragonflies with them.
And if Cynder didn't know the shrink spell, which she used a few times on the lava rocks that they were sure was going to hit them, causing them to shrink, making it easier to avoid those rocks along the way.
Along with the fact, that both Hunter, and his Uncle was also shooting at the lava rocks with their arrows, which had an explosive spell added to them. And they shot them at the rocks to destroy them into a dozen pieces to make it safer for Elora to climb alongside the dragons.
Regardless of Elora taking at least one rock on her, turning Stern blue.
"Go Elora! Yew can do it!" The Male Fauns cheered, rooting for Elora, and the dragons to get to the Volcano's lid.
"Keep going bro! You're almost there!" Flame cheered alongside Ember for their friends.
Which was appreciated by the group, as they were also cheering for the dragons as they were escorting Elora to the top of the Volcano, protecting her from the rocks that fell from the mouth as they got to the tallest ladders of the Volcano, that lead to the top.
Where they were climbing on the ladder, while making sure to avoid the rocks, as the rumbles started to become more stronger, signaling to them that the volcano might end up exploding, and spraying lava all over the place, which would probably end up covering all of Magma Cone. So they were all hurrying to the top while both dragons, and the Faun was getting higher, and higher.
As they got higher though, Elora was cringing when she felt the heat of the bars in her hands. Which, considering that they were metal, and the fact that they were getting closer to the mouth of the active volcano, the bars of the ladder was getting hotter to where they could almost be glowing orange. Which, made them hot enough to leave marks on her fur, and her skin. While both dragons, were more resistant to the heat fire, as well as the heat emanating out of the volcano. But if they were to fall in the lava, which was hotter than regular fire, then they'd definitely be in trouble. But they were able to bare the heat from the volcano as they got higher.
And to a lesser extent, so was Elora. Mainly because of her determination to close the lid, so she grinned and bared the pain of the heat from the ladder bars as she got higher, and closer to the mouth of the volcano. Regardless of the pain in doing so.
It wasn't long, until they were able to get to the top, where they ended up seeing the open lid, that they were now lifting up in order to close it over the mouth o the volcano. Cynder, and Spyro pushed with all their might against the lid, alongside Elora, who was pulling the lid too with her ropes from her rope arrows that she also had in her quiver.
It wasn't an easy task due to the smoke pressure leaking out of the volcano. Which continued to threaten to spew out the lava as the whole room started to quake from the threat. Which was scary, but it also made the dragons, and Elora, more determined to close the lid as they pushed harder.
It wasn't long, until they ended up succeeding, and closing the lid on the volcano. Now the volcano was rumbling, before the rumbles ceased, showing that it was inactive. Causing the Male Fauns to cheer happily at the heroes of Magma Cone, as they were smiling at each other for the save. Regardless of Elora having some burn marks on her hands from the ladder, and from the heat. But they were able to be healed by Stern getting healed by the snails.
"Where are you leading me, Hunter? Is it a dangerous place?" Spyro asked.
"Take it easy. There's nothing dangerous, where I'm taking you. Just a little bit of fun." Hunter IV responded, as they were climbing into a cave.
All of the group was now part of the upcoming party as the Fauns celebrated the closing of the volcano being closed, as they danced complete with snacks, and party hats. All while they rewarded the whole group the Talisman of Magma Cone, which was a purple cone that was shaped like a volcano.
They were going to have their party, celebrating the arrival of the dragons, and as a celebration of their culture. They just needed the party hats for the occasion. But Chedda the other male Faun told them that the lava monsters had them, and they refused to give them back to them unless the dragons could get them back. So the whole group volunteered for the little job.
Minus Hunter IV, and Spyro, the former of whom, was walking out of the section of the Magma Cone, and back to the elevator, provoking Spyro into following him.
Just as Hunter IV planned. As he was now leading Spyro to the first Section mountainous cone, where they were both climbing on the ladders into a cave that Spyro didn't notice during their trek through Magma Cone.
And now they were inside a surprisingly pretty cold place in the Magma Cone, as both Hunter, and Spyro was in the ice cave, where inside of it, they both looked around with Spyro in surprise at what he was seeing.
It was a spacious ice cave that they were inside, that had glowing green cracks that was on the floor. And there was a bunch icicles that was also on the ceiling. And the walls were also made of ice.
Which was surprising for Spyro, as he didn't think that Magma Cone, the place where volcanos are inside, hence the name, had an ice cave inside of it as well.
"Pretty cool, ain't it?" Hunter said proudly.
"Yeah, I admit it. It is pretty cool that there's an ice cave in this Realm. I didn't think that this would be here." Spyro said with a smile. "But why am I here though?"
Suddenly, a bunch of green steam emanated from the cracks as they ended up trailing in between the cracks until they got to the corners, which is where the tiny geysers connected to the cracks. Where something popped out of those geysers.
A popcorn shaped Crystal. Which surprised Spyro.
"What the…?"
"That's what makes this cave so cool. Every so often, a piece of this Crystal Popcorn comes out of the ground to be caught by the Fauns. Where afterwards, they can either make some drink mixes if you put them in a bowl of water, or you can eat them outright like hard candy. They're basically sugary sweet Crystals that are made compact by a blast of steam in cave systems like these. That's why I brought you here. I would like to play a little game of gathering them, with you." Hunter said.
"Well, this seems like a fun game. But those Fauns might need those party hats, and my friends may need help, so- what the?" Spyro said when something caught his, and Hunter's eye.
A pair of Orbs popped out of the ground too, and was now laying on the ice. Much to their surprise. Then Hunter got an idea. Which caused him to make a little grin.
"Tell ya what, I bet you those Orbs if you can beat me at this game." Hunter then said.
"Wha? You're doing this now? I thought-" Spyro said.
"Don't worry. We both just saved Magma Cone from the volcano, so I think that this is a good time for this game. Just harmless fun for those Orbs. No harm, no foul." Hunter said. "Besides, I'm sure your friends can take care of a few lava monsters for those hats, without you. That is, unless you're too chicken."
As much as Spyro wanted to refuse to play the game with Hunter, the little chicken jab did hit him in his ego. Sure he was more mature then his pre-Gnasty journeys days, but he still had his moments where he won't let anyone bruise his ego without getting burned, either figuratively, or literally.
This is one of those moments.
"Alright pal. You asked for this. I accept!" He said.
Much to Hunter's delight. "Good! First one to ten, wins!" He said, preparing for their little competition, as they got to their positions in the center of the ice cave room.
"READYSETGO!" They both said at the same time, before they sprinted through the room to the places where the Crystal Popcorn was going to pop out. With Spyro sprinting on all fours as he ran along the green mineral cracks to the place where the steam was headed, for one of the Crystals.
All while Hunter also spotted one, and ran to where the other one was going to pop out, before having his paw grabbing it after it popped out of the ground.
"Hey Spyro, got one!" He said, before sprinting to another hole where the other Crystal was going to pop out.
All while Spyro had one in his mouth, making a silent laugh before sprinting to where more was going to pop out, making sure to grab at least two more from the geysers before putting them in his pack. Now he was running fast on the ground, which was thankfully snowy, and not icy, which would've made the challenge more difficult since he'd be sliding all over the place. (Which could also happen to Hunter too. Which Spyro hoped it would if that's the case.)
Spyro also saw that Hunter was also fast himself. Which had Spyro feeling like he could lose if he knew his way to the Crystal Popcorn geysers. So he got determined to run fast as he picked up at least two more Crystals in quick succession.
Which, so did Hunter. As he was now up to four after having gotten one previously. Making this a close match between them. Which, even though Spyro was getting a little nervous about his risk of losing, it also had him feeling excited too as he got a Crystals alongside Hunter.
Pretty soon, they were at a tie with only eight Crystals. And Spyro was able to grab at least two more than Hunter in a quick enough succession. Ending the round in his victory. Which Spyro briefly celebrated while Hunter was in dismay.
"Okay. You win. Here's an Orb." He said, giving Spyro one of the Orbs that was pushed to the side in the Cave room before the round started. Which Spyro put into his pack. "Let's play to fifteen this time. Winner gets to keep the next orb." He then said.
Even though Spyro was annoyed that he would need to win again for the next one, he admitted that he was having fun with this game. So he felt that having another round with him wouldn't hurt. "Bring it."
"Good! I'm ready when you are!" He said, before sprinting alongside Spyro when the Crystals were now popping out of the little geysers again.
Meanwhile, back in the Volcano room, the Fauns were happily cheering, now that they had their party hats back, some of which was already being worn by the Fauns, while the group was also joining in on the festivities, especially Flame, and Ember, while Hunter III, Elora, and Cynder was watching on in approval.
It wasn't a hard job, just not easy, since the Lava Monsters were unaffected by the regular fire breaths that they tested against them once. The same could be said for the lightning breath, and the ice breath. But the Earth Breath flails were able to take them out, and get the hats back.
Their Fireballs also did their job, along with the lightning javelins, and the Earth bombs. Although the Ice darts ended up melting on contact due to the heat of the lava. So they relied on only the other ranged breath attacks for their offense against the Lava Monsters.
It wasn't long, before they got the hats back, and sent the Monsters back into the Lava where they belonged.
After that, they were celebrating, with Ember, and Flame with the male Fauns as they were now partying, leaving Cynder, Elora, and Hunter III as the spectators.
"I have to say Elora, you have chosen well. At this rate, Ripto is surely going to be driven out of Avalar." Hunter III said.
"I agree. Soon, Avalar will be free again. Ripto won't create his Empire from where Avalar used to stand. And afterwards, the dragons, especially Spyro, and Cynder, could come and visit, and see what Avalar is like without him trying to take it." She spoke.
Cynder, and Hunter III was in agreement. "Speaking of Spyro, where is he?" She asked, not seeing Spyro in the room with them.
Something that caught Elora's attention, as she, and Hunter III as they searched around for where Spyro is. Then they suddenly noticed that Hunter IV was gone too, and was nowhere to be seen.
"Hello fellow tribe brother. It's been a little while." A new voice said, catching their attention.
It was a pair of female cat warriors that ended up meeting up with all three of them. Both of whom, were not cheetahs, but were recognized by Hunter III.
The first one, was a Lioness, who was a beige tan furred lioness with red hair that trailed to her lower back, while having some braids on some of her stands. She also looked athletic, and acrobatic. She wore a reddish-brown one-piece dress that trailed to her upper legs, and was leathery, while she also had a quiver, and a bow on her back.
The second one, was a Jaguaress. Who was different from the cheetahs in that her fur was a more orange-tan, and that her spots were in different patterns. She also looked athletic, but was lither compared to the lioness, even though she still had some muscle on her. She wore a blue two-piece tribal dress of a cloth top, and miniskirt that trailed to her knees, as well as her own quiver, and bow, and a dagger in its holster on her lower back. And she had a little bell necklace.
"Who are you?" Elora asked.
"Cleo. Bella. Glad to see that you're both okay." Hunter III said happily, as he hugged them both, knowing who they are. While they both hugged him back out of friendship. "How goes your hunting?"
"Quite well, Hunter. We got plenty of pelts for the cloth making. And the meat was plentiful for handing to the village. They don't call me the Huntress for nothing after all." The lioness known as Cleo, said.
"Anyways, we were in the village, before we heard the news of your location in Autumn Plains. As well as the news of the heroes, and our son being there too. So, we just got here to see you and our son." The jaguaress known as Bella then said.
"Ah. And I see that you know of Elora, one of the leaders of Avalar?" He asked.
Cleo, smiled at Hunter III. "Indeed. And I see that the heroes of Avalar are here." She said, seeing Ember, and Flame with the Fauns, and seeing Cynder by Elora.
"Almost all of us are here. Spyro is around somewhere. And he has yet to show himself." Cynder responded.
Bella, was also looking around for Spyro, when she noticed something else. "Gunther is gone to. Where could he be?"
Cynder was confused. "Gunther?"
"Hunter's real name. But he prefers to be called Hunter IV, unless it's by his mothers. Both of whom, you're looking at." Hunter III said, referring to Cleo, and Bella.
Which surprised both Elora, and Cynder, as they didn't think that they would end up meeting Hunter's mothers, in Magma Cone, during their journey to defeating Ripto.
"That's his real name? Well, that's interesting. Don't know why he's not fond of that name though." Cynder said amused. "And you got me there. I didn't see him. He probably left… and maybe, he had Spyro following him too." She spoke.
"But what did he want Spyro to follow him for?" Elora asked confused.
"Beats me. He might've gotten annoying, especially with those dang Orbs that he bribed us with, but he didn't outright try to beat us badly, or kill us. So, he… he couldn't be up to something… with my Spyro, could he?" She said, starting to get nervous as she started to assume the worst.
Which, is what Elora also assumed too, when she noted that Spyro, and Hunter could be alone, with only each other for company.
And that thought, had both her, and Cynder's faces starting to turn white with fear, at what that could mean as they assumed, that it could be an assassination attempt on Spyro's life. Something that had Hunter III also feeling utter concern for what Hunter IV could be doing. And that also had him feeling horror, as tears also started to leak out of his eyes.
"By the sun, what have I done?" He said in sorrow, and horror as he looked at the ground while both Cynder, and Elora was now sprinting out of the room, and towards the first section of the Magma Cone. Leaving him, and the mothers of Hunter IV's alone with the other Fauns in the room.
"What's our son doing? Why are they running out of the room like they saw an evil creature about to eat them?" Bella asked.
"It's a bit complicated. Mind if I explain on the way?" Hunter III asked, ready to follow Elora, and Cynder out of the room.
Both of whom were running fast, as they were basically jumping with impatience as they were waiting for the elevator to reach the top of the room, hoping that Spyro could be okay, while also hoping that Hunter IV aka Gunther, wasn't about to deal a death blow on him from behind.
The thoughts of which, had both of them running faster once the elevator was at the top. Where they were trying to see where Spyro, and Hunter IV was.
"Where could they be?! Where?!" Cynder asked in distress, hoping to find them both soon as she was trying not to panic and assume that she's too late.
"There is an ice cave inside of that mountain in the center! They have to be in there!" Elora said, pointing out the entrance to the mountain in the middle of the section. Causing Cynder to glide to it while Elora used her rope arrows to swing there as well.
Once they got to the entrance of the mountain's ice cave, they both jumped down into the entrance of the cave, where they were running into the cave room, hoping that they won't see Spyro's dead body inside.
What they saw instead, was both Spyro, and Hunter IV in the cave, sprinting around on the floor, picking up the Crystal Popcorn faster, as they were both neck in neck in that competition. Much to both of their surprise at what they were seeing.
Even though they also felt relief at seeing that it wasn't an assassination attempt on Spyro. But they were also confused at what they were witnessing.
All while Spyro was working up a sweat, seeing that they were both at thirteen. Before Spyro got the second to last Crystal.
"Got the fourteenth one! I'm almost there!" Hunter called out to him in excitement. Provoking Spyro to sprint his way to the last Crystal in his reach, trying to grab it himself before Hunter can.
It was a close race, with Hunter IV, and Spyro neck in neck, trying to grab their respective Crystal Popcorns in their hands, before they were now racing to their Crystals, hoping to win the race first.
It was close, but Spyro got the win, barely making it to his own Crystal, seconds before Hunter could make it to his, which was nearby Spyro's. Netting Spyro the victory.
Which had him celebrating the final win against him in jumping around, much to Hunter's dismay. "Yes! I won! I won! I am an awesome dragon!" He boasted.
Which, since he won over Hunter, he had a right to boast about it. And Hunter was unable to argue against it.
"Indeed, you have. And you've earned another Orb." Hunter said, deciding to take his defeat in stride, and fold his cards in a figurative sense, as he pointed to the other Orb that was also put to the side.
Before Spyro could get to it though, he took only a few steps when he heard some footsteps. "SPYRO!" Both Elora's, and Cynder's voices sounded out.
And before he knew it, he was feeling himself on the ground due to the glomping that both Cynder, and Elora did to him, putting them all on the ground, much to Hunter's surprise.
As well as Spyro's own as he shook the stars out of his head, before he then noticed both Cynder, and Elora, both of whom were hugging him defensively, while the former was also kissing, and nuzzling him. "Wha, Cynder? Elora?"
"Are you okay?!" "Did Hunter hurt you?!" "Did he even try to kill you?!" Cynder, and Elora each asked respectively, not slowing down a bit in their questions, and begging, hoping that he's okay.
While he also noticed both of them making occasional looks of death towards Hunter's direction. Such looks could leave wells sour, and leave any Faun barren if they saw them directly. All while Hunter IV was confused, and intimidated.
Which did leave Spyro with little room to try to respond without raising his voice. Let alone Hunter trying to raise his own voice as well. Which is why Spyro had no choice. "GUYS! ENOUGH!" He shouted, his yells echoing through the room.
Which shushed Cynder, and Elora, whom were startled at the volume.
"Sorry. I had no choice. But listen. I'm fine." He said calmly, though a bit ashamed of his yelling. Then he ended up guessing why they both were like this, and why they glared at him. "After all, he would never do that. Sure, he's annoying with those Orb challenges, but I doubt he'd do this. He'd be having you all as his foes if he did. And if I know him, he'd know that it isn't worth it. Besides, he just brought me here for a game. That's all." Spyro said.
Hunter also guessed that they were here, on that assumption that Spyro mentioned. "It's true. I just brought him here to play for… those Orbs. Nothing more." He said, ashamed on the last part.
"Exactly. So, if you're both planning on killing him, then don't. He didn't do anything wrong. At least, not this time. Other than another Orb challenge. But that's just a minor offense compared to what you're both thinking." Spyro said, as they all were now standing up.
The explanation calmed both the Magic Crafter, and Faun, down. As they both hugged Spyro in relief. "I'm so happy, and relieved that you're okay. I was so worried when I noticed that you, and Hunter, were missing." Cynder said.
"Hey come on Cyn." Spyro said, using his pet name for her, making her blush. "Besides. You know me, I could kick his tail if he ever dared to try it. And I doubt he'd be sneaky enough to-"
He tried to say, but then he felt lips on his own, and they weren't Cynder's. Much to her surprise.
As they both then saw Elora kissing Spyro on his lips. Much to both dragon's shock, as well as Hunter's surprise, as Elora was now pulling her head back, feeling bliss for what she's done.
Then she got shocked at what she has done, as she blushed with shame at that act.
"Oh, so you say to me that you don't have a thing for them, back in Summer Forest, while I got teased by Spyro for accusing him of taking you too, and yet you did this? What next? I predict that I'm gonna have a bunny for a girlfriend, and I get one? Please. And right in front of his girlfriend as well? Sheesh, you're cruisin for a bruisin for that act, you know that, right?" Hunter said, ranting about what he just witnessed from Elora.
All while Cynder was staring on in shock at what she just witnessed, and saw. Elora. Just. Kissed. Spyro. And Right. In front. Of her. That had her feeling shocked at the audacity of Elora's, for doing that in front of her no less. And of course, she felt some jealousy from that.
All while Elora was ashamed of that action, looking at the ground as Hunter made his rant, and prepared for a potential verbal lashing from Cynder for that, feeling that she deserved that for overstepping that boundary. But then she ended up feeling, that there was no turning back now. She was now making her bold move.
"Oh, don't worry Hunter. I ain't leaving her out." She said, before she then moved to Cynder, who was now looking at her in confusion when she noticed.
Then before Cynder could ask, she got kissed by Elora too. Making her eyes widen to the size of Dinnerplates, alongside Spyro, and Hunter's when they witnessed that. And whatever Cynder was going to say to Elora, ended up vanishing out of her throat at that.
Especially as Elora's kiss was deeper on Cynder's lips, as she could swear that she could feel some tongue in her mouth too. Which had her brain frying at the overload of confusion that she was going through during the deep kiss.
All while Spyro had to admit, there was something about that kiss that felt, hot, about it. He didn't know how he'd feel about it though, since he wondered what Cynder would think.
After a minute of that kiss, Elora ended it while retracting her head. All while Cynder blushed up a storm at what she just went through, from Elora when her mind was catching up again, and when she saw that she was kissed by Elora.
"Wha… What did you…? Do that for?" Cynder asked.
"Because… it's for my… invitation. To Spyro's harem." Elora said with a blush at the confession.
Cynder, and Spyro was surprised at what she said, alongside Hunter IV. Who didn't think that Elora would go for the dragons to make her harem out of. "WHAT?! But… didn't you say, back in Metro Speedway, that… you were leaving us alone?"
"Actually… I have a confession to make." Elora said somberly. "I admit, I still have feelings for Spyro, even if you're around. And I doubt that no other Faun, or Satyr will be my type in the future. Not only that, but I confess, that I love you too. So, if I am to make a harem with him, and you, to be with both of you, so be it." She said.
Both dragons were surprised at what they heard from Elora. She has feelings for him, like how Cynder had feelings for him before they hooked up in Twilight Harbor? That was out of the blue.
What was also out of the blue, was that she loves Cynder as well. And that left her surprised at hearing that part as well, since she didn't think that Elora had romantic feelings for her too.
"In fact, when I look at Spyro, I can see that he is a nice dragon, even if he might be boastful, especially with what I was told about what he used to be like, before, and during your journey to beat Gnasty Gnorc. But I also heard that he is now mature enough to never let it go to his head. And to be honest, I also started to love you as well, since you had it rough in your life, and yet you became a hero for it instead of a villainess. That is why I didn't want to ruin our friendship by being with him too. I'd rather that you, Spyro, and I, be lovers, than to take him from you." She said somberly.
Which had Cynder, and Spyro, feeling surprised at that question. "And you feel that a three-way Harem would be your best option."
"Yes. I know that he is nice to you, and his friends. And I'm sure that he looks out for you, and helps you, like he did for you when he made you a friend. And… I feel that he could have love for every dragon friend of his, if his heroism in saving the dragons from Crystal isn't an indication. Not to mention what he told you in Alpine Ridge, concerning those beasts that you told me about. And that's why I love him, as much as you do, like I mentioned back in Metro Speedway." Elora said somberly, trying not to shed a tear.
"But Elora… he loves-"
"I KNOW HE LOVES YOU!" Elora loudly said, making Cynder, and Spyro, flinch. "And that is why I don't want to make him love me too, if it means that I'll take him from you. I… just don't want to have you hate me for taking him, and leaving you in the dust for him. I just want to know, that since I want to go through with making a three-way harem with you, and Spyro at this point, may you give me a chance… to also give you both my love, and share it with both of you? I promise that he's still yours. I just hope that I'll be his too, as well as yours."
Spyro and Cynder was currently unable to answer that, as they never really thought about it. Sharing Spyro with Elora, wasn't the first thing that Cynder would think about when it came to her life of romance with him. Especially when it came to remembering that the Beast Makers also had harems too, separating themselves from the other dragons. But she didn't want to hurt Elora's feelings by telling her no. So, at this moment, she was at a loss for words.
"I … I don't… know. I don't know what to say." Cynder admitted. As was Spyro, who also shook his head in agreement.
"Then you don't need to answer that right now. After all, I love him, but I love you too, and I don't want to ruin that, by taking him from you. And that is regardless of how envious that I could feel, at how you got lucky to be with him first, considering how nice he is. Which is why I asked this. I… just want to make sure that you're both okay with a three-way too." Elora then said somberly.
Cynder was in shock at what she heard from Elora, as was Spyro. It seems that she desires to have a three-way harem with her and Spyro, like what the other Fauns were having in Fracture Hills. And yet, she was just making sure that she wouldn't mind letting it happen between them first. At this point, she started to respect, and even like Elora, even more.
And she did feel like letting Elora know that she was happy that she wasn't being pushy, or daring, in attempting to take Spyro too. Even though she felt that she might not mind sharing him with Elora as well.
"Wait. Did I just think that? She's just a friend of ours! Not a lover!" Cynder thought. "But then again, since she didn't dare try to take him from me, I feel that it'd be mean of me to make her stay away from us. Let alone bluntly tell her no."
All while Spyro was also in thought. He admits, he is indeed looking forward to doing this with her too. But he'd rather that Cynder is okay with it as well, instead of persuading, or forcing her to do this too. So he was actually confused on which choice to make if Cynder was too.
All while Hunter IV was in surprise at the confession too. As he didn't think that Elora was willing to make a harem like that, let alone go for a harem at all. She didn't seem like the type who would create one with the Fauns after all, let alone with the dragons. But he's being proven wrong here.
It was a tense few minutes, as Cynder was hesitating on what choice she could make, before she made her decision.
Spyro tried to see if he could get a word in beforehand, but Cynder stopped him, before coming closer to Elora. Before she decided to bring Spyro in closer too. Before Cynder decided to kiss Elora in return for the kiss she gave her, much to Spyro's surprise. Then he got kissed by her as well.
After the kissing was done, Cynder made her choice. "I accept. I accept your love as well, if Spyro is also alright with your love for us." Cynder said, making her decision. Which was yes to Elora's proposal. "You don't mind, do you Spyro?" She then asked.
"O-Of course not! I accept her love as well. And I'm not stopping you girls, from making a three-way harem with me, if you don't mind either." Spyro responded, also deciding on yes.
Much to Elora's elation, as she was jumping for joy at the answer as she hugged them both. "Oh thank you, thank you, thank you both so much for accepting me!"
"No problem." Both of them said in unison. Accepting having a third wheel in their romantic relationship. Knowing that from here on out, Elora is their partner as well, instead of only each other.
Even Hunter IV had to admit, this was pretty adorable to see. Even if it's pretty unusual that a Faun is with a pair of dragons. But it didn't bother him.
Speaking of Hunter IV though, once they were done with the hugging, and the talking, Cynder, and Elora was now wanting a word with him.
"So let us get this straight. You, and Spyro, decided to play this game, of gathering the Crystal Popcorn in this cave, as a challenge for those Orbs." Elora said, forming the answer in her head, before Hunter could tell her.
"Well… yes." He said with hesitation.
"So, both of you were doing this challenge, this entire time, while we were getting those hats for the Fauns. I have to admit, you have no idea how relieved I am, to know that this place isn't going to be his tomb." Cynder said, hugging Spyro out of relief for his life.
"But still, I thought that you were done with your rivalry with the dragons. How could you still be like this even though you told us back in Shady Oasis, that you were burying the hatchet?" Elora asked in a scolding manner.
"I'm sorry Elora. I j-just wanted to make this the moment when I could finally win, and gain the right to face off against Ripto, as Avalar's hero. Making you proud of me while I'm at it. But at this point, what's the point?" He sadly asked as he looked at the floor. "I failed once again, against you guys. So Ripto would definitely wipe the floor with me because of it."
"So, this is what it's about? Wanting to win against us, to fight Ripto? Well, why didn't you outright try to fight him instead of focusing on us?!" Cynder asked.
"Obviously, because Elora would totally stop me from doing it. She's so certain that I'm going to lose, and probably die, after all." Hunter responded.
Which Elora admits, he's not wrong about that. But it was to protect him. And she knew it'd be a bad move to go after Ripto at his current strength. "And for good reason. He'd totally destroy you with Gulp. And I'm certain that your people would be saddened to learn that you got killed, trying to fight him."
"Well, what's the point? They're probably not going to have a funeral for me, back in my village. Being banished, and all." Hunter said sadly.
Which startled Elora at what she heard. "What?" She asked, trying to know if she heard that right.
Before he could respond though, they all heard some footsteps. "Excuse us. But we need to see our son." A feminine voice said.
Causing them all to see Hunter's mothers, Cleo, and Bella, walking into the cave, with Hunter III behind them both.
The three-way couple gave them some space, as the mothers were now in front of the now shocked Hunter IV. "Mothers?!"
"Don't 'mothers' us, young man. After what we have heard about you and your rivalry with the heroes, it's about time that you learn to lose for once." Bella said, scolding him after hearing about his antics towards the dragons.
"And with the Orbs of all things?! Don't you know that without them, some of the portals of Avalar would be disabled, and the dragons could be unable to go back home? And that's not getting into what would happen if this Ripto fellow ends up grabbing them." Cleo said. Also scolding Hunter.
All while Hunter was feebly sitting down, and apologizing, knowing that it's not a good idea to argue back with his mothers, since they'd kick his tail all over Magma Cone for it. So, he took their scolding without complaint, knowing that he ultimately deserved this.
Then he got back up to apologize again, only to then get hugged by them both.
"But thank goodness that you're alright. We both hoped that Ripto didn't outright vaporize you for trying to stop him. Thank the sun, and stars, that you are still okay." Cleo said with Bella in agreement.
"After all, we both still love you, Gunther. And nothing can ever change that fact." Bella said softly.
Hunter was also relieved as he hugged back to them. (All while Spyro, was surprised at the name that they dropped, being Gunther.) Even though he also felt shame still, to be in their presence.
"Thanks. Moms. But why are you both here for me, even though I'm no longer welcome?" Hunter IV asked.
"Now why would you say that?" Cleo asked in surprise.
"I've been banished from my village, and my clan. I'm no longer welcome there, because of Ripto being here in Avalar, due to my clumsiness." He somberly said, confessing.
Both mothers were startled, and surprised, alongside Elora, Cynder, and Spyro, at what they heard. "Banished? You were banished?"
"NO! He wasn't banished!" Hunter III said, stepping forward to his sight.
"What?" Hunter IV asked.
"You were not banished. And you were never banished from your clan, or the village, this whole time." Hunter III said, shocking his nephew at what he just heard.
Apparently, he wasn't banished this whole time. He was still part of the clan, and the village, this whole time.
Which meant that Hunter III made him believe that he was.
"But, why? Why would you…" He asked.
"It was the only way that I could put a stop to your rivalry with the dragons. I figured that you were quite determined to win your rivalry with them, so that you would boldly fight Ripto, regardless of how mighty he is with his minions, and with his magic powers." Hunter III said. "And that made the village upset with you due to your lack of support for the true heroes of Avalar, within these dragons. So, I reluctantly made you believe that you were banished, in order to make you swallow your pride, and atone for your mistakes, and your lack of support for them, by siding with them as their ally in order to earn your place back with us."
"But after what I assumed, was an assassination attempt on Spyro, which I'm glad to see that it isn't the case, I realized that instead, I risked having you become more determined to outright beat them, or slay them like wild beasts. And it would've broke my heart to see you becoming a villain in the process of trying to win against them, and Ripto. And for that, I am truly sorry, for making you believe that you were banished. In hindsight, I should've considered the other options. Each of which, would be less harsh than what I've done. Because I love you regardless of our differences." He finished explaining, while somber, and trying not to cry himself.
All while Hunter IV was surprised at what he heard. Not only was he not banished this whole time, but he also heard his uncle telling him that he indeed loves him. Regardless of his antics, and for his less serious attitude compared to himself. And that had him shedding tears.
Not only out of relief, but out of pride for his uncle for his love as they proceeded to hug it out together with his mothers. "I love you too uncle." Hunter IV said, shedding out his own tears, feeling relieved that he wasn't banished. While he also then apologized to him for his antics towards the dragons.
All while his mothers, and Hunter III also shedded out their tears as well. While Elora, Spyro, and Cynder, ended up looking on at the sight. With Elora feeling happiness that Hunter wasn't banished the entire time too.
All while Cynder, and Spyro had to admit it, they too shed their tears at how precious the sight was, even if it was getting sappy.
Afterwards, Hunter IV at that point, truly dropped his rivalry against them, and decided to legit become their ally against Ripto, with nary a fuss from him. Much to their delight as they were now getting out of Magma Cone together, (Making sure to get the last Orb on the way out.) after saying goodbye to the Fauns of Magma Cone.
Afterwards, the Fauns were outside in the first section of Magma Cone, as they danced near the path of lava, feeling joy at their home of Magma Cone being saved.
The Fauns farther from the ledge was doing a belly bump in celebration, prompting the other Fauns to want to do the same.
"Ready lad?!" One of them said.
"Ready!"
Then on three, they bumped their chests together. Probably a little too hard, since it sent the Faun closer to the ledge flying.
Or at least, he could've been, if an Earthshaper, who tried to serve them green punch, wasn't in the way, as he ended up falling into the lava instead. Much to the relief of the Faun that could've been sent in.
"Whew. That was a clohse one. Why don't we be a wee bit more careful." The Faun said, relieved.
The other one nodded in relief, as they both were readjusting their positions on the rock to where they were safe. Not noticing the Earthshaper's demise as he sunk below the lava, before shattering into pieces.
The parties of Magma Cone were fun, but boy could they get dangerous.
And done.
This is probably my longest chapter yet. I hope you guys enjoyed this chapter, and that it's worth the wait.
Also, yes. It seems that the Four dragons are now Bipedal. Calvinfujii sent it in as a suggestion for them to be bipedal in Ripto's rage, and initially, I wanted them to become bipedal when they get to a hero's tail's arc. But I changed my mind a bit, and planned for them to be bipedal by the end of the YOTD arc, and this story, leading into ETD. Only for me to change my mind again, and decide to make this their time to become bipedal. So shoutout to Calvinfujii for the suggestion.
Also, it seems that Elora has decided to create a three-way, and with both dragons of all people. And I have something to say about that. I am sorry to you, deathman9999, and tl34lt12, that I did this. But the temptation of them in a three-way, was too much for me. And I ain't putting it past you guys for stopping here. But hopefully I hope to make up for it by not putting any harems in any other story that I make.
Edit: Also, yes. The plot twist is that Hunter IV was never banished to begin with, and that Hunter III merely was lying into making him believe that he was, to teach him a lesson. What a twist.
Finally, one more thing.
I hope that you enjoyed the chapter,
please give constructive criticism, just don't be rude,
do not forget to read and review,
and once again, I do not own Spyro the Dragon. Spyro the dragon is created by Insomniac Games, and is currently owned by Activision, and Toys for Bob. Please support the official releases.
Theodore The Poet signing off.