Well, I'm back. If anyone is still around to read this, that is.

I'm going to get straight to the point. The 10k-15k word chapters aren't going to happen anymore. From this chapter (which is 6,750 words) the new normal is going to be the 5k-8k word range. I'm hoping that this makes my frequency of posting go up because there is less to write. And I think you guys will probably be happy just to get anything at this point so I'm not too worried about telling you all this. This entire chapter was done within the past two weeks, so I know that a 1 chapter a month basis can happen.

This will make my life easier and probably mean more chapters. Scrolling through a 13k chapter to find a single line I forgot that's crucial to the plot is draining.

And even though I just said all that, the real reason this chapter is 4 months late is simply that I took a break from it. I needed time to think of what to do and how to execute it, I did revise a few chapters in that time, but not much to write home about. While revising I'm going to admit, some parts of this story in the beginning are just straight up bad. Like how did you guys make it all the way to chapter 17 after reading that? Well, I'm not complaining. With this chapter I'm hoping to bring back old and maybe new readers and show them I actually know how to write a story! I'm also rambling… So here are the review replies!

Kurama: I hadn't listened to them before this review. But after checking out a few songs, they do fall into the exact category of music I personally listen to, and are now in my playlist. And while Gale isn't a self-insert, some of your own personality usually drips into a first person characters no matter what. So in a long winded way, yeah! He'd probably like them lol.

DuskenDragon: Thank you! And yeah, I'm going for a different approach when it comes to tension and conflict this arc. Hopefully it delivers!

MysteryWriter175: Hey man give Spyro a bit of slack. His only experience with children is his overly energetic daughter, not a somewhat edgy pre-teen dragon. And Kenra wouldn't talk to Spyro, so he did try! I promise he's not a bad dad LOL. Don't worry, Kenra won't let himself be a push over. But by all means feel free to bonk if you'd like. haha, thanks for the review.

WallCat: He definitely need it! Thanks, wholesome family moments is like... probably my best talent in writing. It's good to know others agree!

Plague Doctor 2035: Thanks for the review, though I'm not sure if you're caught up to see this since your review is on chapter 8, thanks anyway. And yeah I try to put a spin on things that are super common, (though I honestly haven't seen any other human in the dragons realms stories in a while... I sorta miss the golden age where those were the norm.) Also I'm just straight up bad at writing overpowered characters.

And that's it for me, hopefully you'll see me within a month or maybe sooner who know. I hope you all enjoy, lurker or not!

Review, follow, fav if you'd like. All are greatly appreciated!

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"Help me…"

I looked around frantically in the darkness, but I couldn't decipher where the voice was.

"Please…help…"

I whimpered, "Who… Where are you?" I called out into the void.

"I… I can't…" the voice lingered.

I looked more and eventually I saw something, a small green wisp in the inky black. Yet it was so far away from me. "Is that you?" I said, trying to take a step, but it did nothing, "How do I help you?" I asked, concerned.

It didn't respond for a while, "I… I can't…" the wisp slowly began to fade, as well as the voice which got quieter.

"Can't what?" I called out desperately.

It barely whispered out its last word, "...Escape."

I jerked awake with a start, looking around breathing heavily and seeing the sun slowly rising. Then I remembered last night, and sighed. "Weird…"

Chapter 17

"Family/Culture"

Cynder hesitated outside of Kenra's room. Her paw raised to knock as she thought about him. Would he still be upset? Would he still be silent? She sighed as she decided the only way to know was to see for herself. She steadily knocked a few times, "Kenra?" She called nicely through the door.

After a few moments with no response, she knocked again, "Kenra, school starts soon sweetie. Do you want any breakfast?"

With no response again she began to grow worried, and a few panicked thoughts of him running away flashed through her mind. And without waiting, she opened the door slowly, almost too afraid of what she'd see behind it. What she saw was a very surprised Kenra who was currently about to open the door himself, and he looked at her with a tilted head.

Cynder breathed a sigh of relief and leaned down, "You scared me, can you respond next time little one?" She said, nudging him worriedly.

Kenra gave a small smirk at that and looked down at his paws, "Sorry Cynder… I don't mean to."

"It's okay… would you like breakfast?" Cynder asked, giving him a lick on the head.

He looked frightened by that idea, "I-I think I should skip it."

Cynder tilted her head worriedly, "How come?"

He sighed, "G-Gale and… and Spyro… I-"

Cynder sighed again as she pulled the small fluffy dragonling into her chest, "Gale is worried about you Kenra. And I had a talk with Spyro, and he feels awful about how he talked to you."

"Really?" Kenra asked, peeking his head out.

Cynder nodded, "Yes, of course," she lowered her maw to his ear and whispered, "Honestly I think that dragonling probably deserved it, especially if he made you angry." She whispered and giggled.

"I should be able to control myself more…" Kenra decided, "Even if he deserved it."

Cynder nuzzled him lovingly, "You're only a dragonling. You're so much smarter than you give yourself credit for Kenra."

He smiled at that, as he looked up at her happily, "Thank you, nobody ever used to tell me things like that. Actually the opposite usually."

She giggled, "That's because I love you Kenra," she couldn't help but say.

He nuzzled into her chest, "I love you too mom."

Cynder's mind reeled for a very long moment as she practically froze, and when she looked down at Kenra he was blushing and backing away embarrassed, "I-I don't…" he stuttered, "Cynder I-"

Cynder embraced him again with an even tighter grip, "Kenra," she said looking down at him and forcing him to meet her eyes, "You can absolutely call me that if you want to. I won't love you any less no matter what you call me." She said nuzzling him.

He nodded slowly, "S-Sure. Thank you, Cynd-… mom."

She giggled, "Of course love, let's get some breakfast okay?" She said picking him up by the scruff.

[Gale]

After last night I was still extremely upset. I felt like Kenra hated me now and it was evident to everyone around me as I picked at my food absentmindedly. "Gale, eat it, don't play with it." Spyro reminded me.

"Yes sir," I mumbled, as I quit playing with it but didn't bother eating either.

"Gale eat?" Kaali said as she stared at me worriedly.

Spyro sighed and sat down at my side and leaned downward, "Gale," he began, "Everything's going to be fine buddy, Kenra is alright." Spyro almost said guiltily.

I looked even farther down at my paws, "He is alright, without me. He hates me."

Spyro gaped in surprise at that as he nuzzled me, "Gale, he does not hate you. Is that what you've been thinking this whole time?"

I slowly nodded, "I brought him here, he came here because of me. And now he hates school, and he hates me," I began to tear up, "My big brother hates me and it's all my fault!" I said, beginning to cry my eyes out. I was well past the point of caring how I looked when I did so. Being in a hatchling's body made your emotions flood out like well… a hatchling.

Spyro picked me up and into his two front paws, "No, no Gale. Shh calm down buddy." Spyro said gently rubbing my back in a circular motion with his paw. "It's okay little one." He whispered to me as my crying continued.

Kaali placed a paw on Spyro as she looked up at me, "Gale..? Don't be sad, little brother." She said sadly herself.

"W-We don't spend any time together anymore… a-and-" I continued.

Spyro continued to hold me close to his chest, "Gale-" he tried. "Listen to me son."

At that I looked upwards with a questioning gaze, and he smiled sadly, "Family is always there for you, even when you think they're too busy for you, or that they're upset at you. Your family loves you."

I stayed silent for a minute before speaking, "My family didn't do that…"

Spyro almost seemed to cringe at his own wording as he rubbed the back of his head with a paw, while he held me comfortably in one paw, "I meant… uh…" he seemed lost for words again.

"It's okay dad," I said quietly, "I know what you're trying to say… but-.." Spyro's expression saddened as I began crying again, I really hated these emotional outbursts. But they were almost uncontrollable.

We heard walking as Cynder entered the room, with Kenra in her muzzle which she promptly set down after seeing me, "Oh no…" she started, "Not our other one too…"

She walked over and looked up at Spyro questioningly, and must've noticed that what he said hadn't worked. "Come here little one," Cynder said as she sat down and outstretched her paws, which Spyro handed me off into. "Hush hatchling," she said, nuzzling me gently.

My crying eased a bit as I looked up at her, "What's wrong hatchling?" She asked licking me gently across the head.

"Kenra h-hates me." I said quietly.

I almost thought I heard Cynder laugh, as she shook her head, "He absolutely does not!" She said with a giggle, I questioned her as she lowered me to the ground, and placed me right in front of Kenra.

I froze as Kenra looked at me sadly and with a shy yet worried expression, "Hi Kunmai," he said slowly.

I looked for Cynder but she had already retreated to Spyro's side, so I was left alone with him. I looked down at my front paws and sniffled, "H-Hi… Kenra."

A long silence filled the air as both of us felt awkward. I knew it, he had to hate me. I sighed to myself as I realized it would be up to me to ask that question, and I slowly opened my mouth, I blurted out the words quickly…

"K-Kenra do you hate me?"

"Gale, do you hate me now?"

We stared at each other in confusion as I released a confused, "Huh?"

Spyro and Cynder couldn't hold it back as they both laughed a bit from a few feet away. I continued to stare at Kenra, "What did you say?" I asked.

He blinked slowly, "I asked if you hate me now, because of how mean I was. What did you say?"

I released a very confused sound as I widened my eyes, "…I asked if you hated me," I told him.

We both just stared at each other for another few seconds, and before I had time to move Kenra bounded forward and scooped me up into his two front paws. I had missed that furry embrace, even if it was such a short time. "I would never hate you Gale. You're my little brother."

I started to cry, "And I wouldn't hate you because of something so simple."

He nuzzled me, "So… we're both idiots." He said with happiness.

I nodded as I nuzzled into his fur, "We always were," I said with a giggle.

After that mess of a morning, we had all finished our breakfast, and Kenra had gotten picked up by Ferra. There was still a bit of tension between Spyro and Kenra, but Spyro at least seemed apprehensive of that and gave him some space.

After that, Spyro said goodbye to us before going to work. He nuzzled Kaali affectionately, and nudged me gently as I was deep in thought, "Hey, Gale? I'm leaving buddy. You okay?" He asked worriedly.

I turned and looked at him, "Yeah. Bye dad." I said simply as I hugged his muzzle.

He smiled widely and nuzzled me, "Love you."

"Love you too," but something didn't sit right with me, "Hey dad…" I said quickly before he could leave.

He turned with a questioning gaze and I continued, "I know Kenra doesn't say it but… he does like you. You should trust his word more… maybe." I said slowly, feeling I was being disrespectful.

He looked for a moment and had a sad sort of smile, then he nodded, "You know I think you're right son. I'll try to do better at that." And then he exited after giving Cynder a nuzzle in the other room.

"Hmm," Kaali said from nearby.

I looked at her curiously as she had her paw to her muzzle, than she looked at me in wonder, "How do you get daddy to listen to you so easily? He never takes my advice like that!"

I almost fell over laughing as she came over and nudged me, "No seriously!" She whined, "I can never get him to just quit being a teacher so he can stay home all day." I laughed even more at that as she still sat in her confusion.

Then she got a little angry and tackled me playfully. She was always super gentle when we play fought, "Tell me Gale!" She begged.

We played for a while, until about noon. Cynder had finished her early morning duties in between making sure we didn't burn the house down. And eventually entered Kaali's room where we were playing, "Little ones?" she said, catching our attention.

We stopped and looked at her, "Hi momma," I said.

She smiled sweetly, "Someone was just at the door and… It seems the city council needs me again for something."

Kaali groaned as I tilted my head, "Huh?"

Cynder came over and laid down in front of us, "Oh yes I never told you… I'm on the city council, although it's not really a full time job it's… or it was, something I did just to pass the time and… feel like I was helping I guess." She said a bit sadly, and I nuzzled her paw.

She smiled at me and continued, "Anyway, I stopped when Kaali hatched almost a year ago. But they said they were rather desperate for some 'noteworthy dragons' to be present. For some out of continent guests."

"Ooo is it royalty, like a princess or a queen?" Kaali asked excitedly.

Cynder giggled a bit, "You know I'm not quite sure yet, maybe!" She sighed, "So I was going to ask if you two wanted to go with me. If they're going to ask a full time mother for her presence they should expect her hatchlings to be with her as well I think."

"Yes yes! I might get to meet a real princess!" Kaali said, jumping around happily.

I shook my head with a laugh, "I'll go too. Do you know who is coming? And from which continent?"

She slowly shrugged with a hum, "The messenger didn't say, he looked to be in a big hurry. Guess we can all figure it out! Come along little ones, let's go on an adventure." She said with another giggle.

After Cynder got everything ready, Kaali and I packed ourselves into the hatchling pouch around her neck. Then we left the house, the sun was super bright and there wasn't a cloud in sight, our neighborhood was quiet, and the sound of birds and the ruffling of the trees put my mind at ease. Then we took off, and flew right over the city. I couldn't wait to be able to actually fly, the view was amazing and it looked like so much fun. The city really did look like a rainbow from up high because of all the different colored dragons.

The one other thing about flying over the city that went underrated was the smells. There were so many small food shops and stands making delicious smelling food that you could smell all the way in the air on a less windy day. It reminded me of the human world, walking through the carnival and smelling all of it. Cynder chimed in, "There it is. The council hall!" She called over the wind.

I looked up to where she was flying. It was an almost church-like building, with two wings to the left and right, and a domed tower in the middle. There was a big clock in the middle of the tower, and the whole building overlooked the biggest local park in the city. A giant patch of green with trees and even a small pond in the middle, there were plenty of families making use of the sunny day down there too. I remember going to this park actually, it was one of the first places Spyro and Cynder took Kenra and I too.

We landed right on the main street in front of the council building. There was plenty of people passing by on the street, and they almost all stopped to stare at Cynder for a couple of seconds. Cynder seemingly ignored them as she began walking up the large amount of steps. The building was actually massive now, seeing it from the ground anyway. "Alright you two," Cynder began, "You're both great already, but I'm still going to remind you, best behavior alright? These people are not the ones you want to disrespect, trust me." Cynder said with a bit of exasperation towards the people she was probably speaking of.

"Yes Momma," Kaali and I said simultaneously.

We came to the massive chiseled doors that seemed to be made of some kind of fancy wood, and they pushed open easily. The inside was impressive, it felt very ornate, with a wash of white marble and brown for the floor. The walls were mostly a smooth stone, with supporting pillars a darker wood than the door. The wood also lined the walls along the middle, with a design etched into them. The ceiling of the main lobby had a glass chandelier hanging from the ceiling. It was quite impressive, the moles really were amazing at their crafts.

A blue dragoness with a black underbelly sat at the center of the reception desk, and when she looked up from her book, I noticed she actually had glasses. She smiled brightly at Cynder, "Cynder! I haven't seen you in ages how have you been dear?" She said warmly with an older dragoness voice, she'd probably be about Terrador's age.

As Cynder got to the desk she smiled, "Hi Yuveri, it's been great. A little bit tiring looking after the little ones. Wouldn't trade my time for the world."

Yuveri looked down excitedly at us in the bag, "Aww they're simply adorable dear. What's your names little ones?"

"I'm Kaali!" She declared, "I'm here to meet the princess."

I shyly answered, "Oh my name is Gale. Nice to meet you ma'am."

She put a paw over her heart, "How sweet you both are," she complimented, "I have to say, I didn't know you would have two little ones in that time." Yuveri said, looking at Cynder.

Cynder shook her head, "Gale here is adopted, and we even adopted his older brother, so we've definitely been busy." She said with a giggle.

Yuveri tilted her head, "Of course you and Spyro would," she laughed, "Anyways I could talk for hours, you got asked for the ceremony today I assume?"

Cynder gave an exasperated sigh and a nod, "Yep… As if I wasn't busy enough. Would you happen to know where I need to be?"

She nodded, "There is a meeting going on between the rest of the council and the others requested, in the usual room."

"Thanks Yuveri, I'll see you later," Cynder replied and got a respectful bow.

We walked down one of the wings as Cynder grew serious, "Some of the dragons in here have… differing opinions. Just don't anger them if possible okay?" We nodded.

We took a right into the biggest door in the hallway, and through it was a typical meeting room. A large wooden desk ran the room, with pillows all around it for sitting. There were about seven dragons in total already, a large assortment of colors. When we entered they all stopped speaking to stare at Cynder for a moment before a rather large dragoness who seemed in charge of the meeting spoke up, "Ah Cynder, I'm glad you could join us today. Find yourself a seat, we just started dear."

Cynder nodded thankfully at the large green dragoness, and found a seat on the table. A few other members smiled and nodded at her, a few lingering their vision on Kaali and I.

"So, back to what I was saying." She began, "As you may know, the city is having a festival this week and-"

"We are?-" Kaali blurted out loud before I covered her mouth with my paw.

They all were staring at us and I smiled sheepishly before dragging Kaali into the bag further, "Really sis? Not even five seconds?" I whispered angrily.

She frowned and lowered her head sadly, "Sorry…"

I sighed, "Don't make mom have a worse time than she's probably already going to."

Kaali nodded, "I'm not trying too… I'll be quiet."

I didn't know how well that would hold up. I sighed, this might end up being a very long day.

Kenra and Ferra walked leisurely along to school, but Ferra easily noticed her friend still had things on the mind, "So… Kenra. What happened yesterday?"

Kenra was silent for a long time and he sighed, "I was in combat training class, and… you know who ended up being my sparring partner."

"No way," Ferra said as she stopped walking, than she suddenly ran up and bumped into him, "Did you beat him up and get in trouble? Come one, please tell me you took that opportunity to rough him up."

Kenra raised an eyebrow at her, "Weren't you just telling me yesterday to just ignore him and act like he doesn't exist?"

She shrugged, "I still don't think violence is an answer. But getting him as a sparring partner is just too good of an opportunity. I know you're a better fighter than him fluffball."

Kenra blushed and stayed quiet for a bit, than nodded slightly, "I guess I kind of got the last laugh, I should've restrained myself though."

"Come ooon!..." Ferra whined, "Tell me the story already!"

Kenra nodded and went into detail about his entire match against the ice dragon. And how he'd cheated and nearly froze him to death, before he retaliated and got in trouble.

Ferra sat in silence for a minute after he finished. The silence grew so long that Kenra became worried she was mad, "I-I'm sorry I know I went too far…"

"Whaaat?!" Ferra suddenly yelled, and when Kenra turned to see her face he realized why she'd been silent. She was absolutely seething with anger, "To hell you did! If I was there I would've torn his wings off and mocked him for being a flightless drake! That piece of…"

She seemed to cool herself off a bit as Kenra listened to her rant, "Did you at least tell Spyro the whole story?"

Kenra averted his gaze, "I… He was mad at me for attacking him, and believed Norruth's word over mine about the ice." He began.

Ferra growled, "I will personally go to your house and berate Spyro for you. Savior or not!"

"But…" Kenra said, stopping in his tracks suddenly as Ferra looked back worriedly, "When he said that he trusted Norruth more than my word, I got all angry, told him he wasn't my father… I could see how upset it made him, and I kept saying it… he stayed silent afterwards…"

"Ken…" Ferra said sadly.

A few tears began to form in Kenra's eyes, but he hid his face and rid himself of them, "Untai perr, taen oliah lakoe." He said reverting back to his original language to berate himself.

Ferra embraced him suddenly, "Hey, fluffy, I don't know what you're saying but I know you're insulting yourself. Stop that, please." She said sweetly.

Kenra looked up at her and faltered, "I didn't mean all of that. I… I started calling Cynder mom, I want them to be my family… But… Spyro probably hates me-.."

Ferra nuzzled him gently, "Cynder literally used to be the dark master's puppet. If he can be her mate, I'm sure he'll forgive a few rude words from his dragonling, Kenra."

Kenra nodded very slowly, "I… I guess that's true."

Ferra nodded, "And look at it this way, he's probably more upset over it than you are. So if you apologized he'd probably be super relieved."

"O-Okay," Kenra sniffled, wiping away his tears.

Ferra scoffed, "But don't apologize until that big purple idiot realizes you were in the right about Vax. That stupid little lizard…" She grumbled.

Kenra started laughing, and soon enough Ferra did as well. "Come on, we're late fluffball."

The first half of the school day went by rather well for Kenra. Even in math class him and his little group were mostly silent and didn't bother him, this actually worried Kenra. They had to have something planned at his expense. They never did just let a day pass normally, and they definitely wouldn't after a fight like that.

It was around lunch when Ferra met me just where she said she would, "Come on Kenra! You'll like them I swear."

Kenra sighed, still unsure of meeting her friends, "Okay Ferra."

Excitedly, Ferra wrapped her tail around his leg and began pulling him with her, "Just act like yourself, nobody likes fakes," she told him.

"I… planned on it?" He replied.

Eventually they came to a small table where three other dragons sat, and Ferra excitedly greeted them, "Hey guys, I brought some new blood." She said pulling him forward and presenting him to her crew.

Ferra gestured at a smaller bright yellow dragoness with a white underbelly and smooth horns that nearly looked like a crown, she had a particularly welcoming smile, "That's my bestie Summer."

"Hi! Ferra talks about you all the time! Nice to meet you!" She said with a glint in her eyes. Kenra subtly nodded with a short bow.

"That one is Aiqen," Ferra said, turning my vision to a very tall yet skinny dragon who had light blue scales and a tan underbelly. His horns were dark brown and simply pointed backwards. He had a friendly smile, but he was still a bit shy.

"It's a pleasure," Aiqen said with a nod.

"And-...Seidan!" Ferra finished. He was a large bulky earth dragon, but he looked like he'd only crush you in a hug. He had dark green scales and a lime green underbelly, with ram-like horns.

"Hey, I've seen this guy around. Aren't you the one that fought Vax after the match?" Seidan asked curiously.

Kenra did recognize them, but he'd never actually interacted with them before. He chose to nod slowly, as Ferra stepped in front of him, "Can we like… not make my friend uncomfortable instantly please?"

"Sorry," Seidan said sincerely.

Summer hopped up and around Ferra to look Kenra intently in the face, "Anyone that isn't Vax's friend is my friend!"

Kenra nodded thankfully, "I'll do my best." And Summer giggled and went back to her seat.

Aiqen nodded, "He's cool. And a bit intimidating."

Ferra smiled back at me, "See? Come on, go get some food and sit with us."

"Okay." Kenra said quietly as he shadowed back to the main part of the cafeteria to get in line.

While in line he couldn't help but notice a lot of dragons were staring at him, and that the line had even moved away from him. Was everybody scared of him now? The thought was more than a little saddening and he couldn't help but sulk. After getting his tray for lunch, it was easily apparent rumors had spread and now Kenra was the one to avoid, but not for the same reasons as Vax…

Once Kenra saw the table of everyone he'd just met, he cheered up a bit. Hanging out with new friends should cheer you up, right? Out of sight to him, his food tray was smacked downwards and out of Kenra's maw, going all over the floor. Kenra yelped and jumped backwards a bit at the clattering of the tray, then he heard laughter. He looked up and expected to see Vax or one of the others, but he didn't. Somebody else had done it and disappeared into the now growing crowd of laughing dragonlings. They were mocking him, and it only made him feel like he was back at the mountain with… them.

Unsure of what to do Kenra curled up into a ball on the floor and covered his ears with his paws, "Stop it!" He screamed.

But it did nothing, and all he could do was flash through his memories of that day… The day he left what he thought was his home. Kenra nearly began to scratch at his ears, he wanted to get rid of them so he didn't have to listen anymore.

He felt a warm embrace, and he apprehensively opened his eyes, to be met with Ferra's smile. He felt his worries slowly wash off as she uncovered his paws from his ears. "It's over," she whispered to him. He didn't hear the laughter anymore, and he looked up, the other three he met were standing in a circle around him, glaring challengingly at the surrounding dragons. They were actually protecting him, he felt himself tear up. "Come here fluffy," Ferra said, pulling the smaller dragon towards herself and wrapping her wings around him.

Kenra cried. For the first time it felt, in forever, he cried into Ferra's crest while she nuzzled the top of his head and rubbed his back with her wings. The dragons dispersed, and all left until eventually it was just five. Kenra's crying only finally starting to give way, as he sniffled. Ferra finally brought him back to look in his eyes, and she smiled, Kenra began to stutter an apology, "I-I'm sorry I-"

She shushed him, "You hungry? I'll share mine." She said, leading him back to the table.

"Me too!" Summer proclaimed, bumping into him on his left.

Aiqen cleared his throat, "I've got plenty to share as well."

Seidan grumbled, "I bet I can share more than all of you combined." And it took around five seconds before they all burst out laughing at that, eventually Kenra began laughing as well.

The extent of the meeting was beginning to get truly long and arduous now. I couldn't blame Cynder for not showing up anymore, this was a slog. Most of the attendees were older dragons, and seemed mostly like stuck-up rich people. The only interesting part was the actual information about the festival today and the attendees. I had read about some of this before, but the fact that I'd actually get to see them was exciting.

Today was going to be the official start of the anniversary that our world was saved thirteen years ago. This was the only few days where politics and even war would be put aside, and everyone would be in ceasefire if they were to be at war.

To go along with it, we're supposed to have ambassadors for the three other dragon races coming to Warfang for the next few days. Apparently this continent that Warfang is in, is the west continent on maps, and it's called Aulura. Some dragons are supposed to come from the south continent which I now know is named Verna, their primary race of dragons were actually very interesting. They were like us, but they had two sets of wings overlapping each other, and they were generally bigger and had much more muscle, so like… Terrador, massive as he is, would be on the smaller side for them. Apparently the double wings help with how big they can be. They call themselves the Rokani.

The east continent, Irax, had a significantly recognizable culture that I recognized all too well. They were, well, eastern dragons! Just like from back on earth. They had a different yet similar feeling culture. The dragons weren't snake-like or anything though. The Iraxians, which is what they call themselves, are very slim dragons. They have longer limbs and bodies than my race of dragon, and more fur which runs all the way down their neck, back, and tail. They have long whiskers on their muzzles, and are probably the only race of dragons that wears clothes formally. On a side note, listening to dragons explain what clothes are was very funny. They're a very noble looking race, and you can tell their bloodline status by the way their fur is presented and their clothes. Whether it's braided, clean, designed. Apparently Irax is a bit strict culturally… So breaking these status symbols in your fur especially was a grave mistake.

And the North continent… that… place is apparently named Beishai. And their primary race of dragons is the same as Kenra. Completely furred and wingless, with scaled underbellies and front claws. They don't even go by any specific name publicly, they are completely mysterious. They haven't shown themselves in any worldwide events like this in the past ten years since the world was saved from darkness. But they suddenly decided they were actually coming this time, which made me a bit excited. Maybe Kenra could learn something from them? The whole duration of this information, I had to repeatedly scold Kaali for blurring out words of interest which she immediately regretted. I could tell a few of the council members were getting agitated.

"Alright," The dragoness presenting all the information said, "Any questions? If not I'll move on to positions."

One dragoness raised her paw, "Last time we didn't have any good enough concessions for the Iraxi, and they left early…"

She nodded, "Yes indeed that did happen, we've sorted it out and gotten the appropriate catering for them."

Another older dragon raised his hand, and was eyeing Cynder a bit, "Respectfully, I must say I signed up for a city council. But so far I've only felt like I'm at a history lesson for hatchlings. Which this is no place for."

I could feels Cynder tense up but she didn't say a word, as the council leader laughed it off, "Well, yes it may be a bit of a history lesson. You never know what you might not know!"

Another older dragon spoke up by clearing his throat first, "I will not gloss over that little quip about Cynder." Cynder released a small sigh, "I can't believe you're trying to make this lovely dragoness feel bad about having to bring her hatchlings to a council meeting about a festival." He said, staring intently at the other dragon.

"Well, I-I've never-" he was stuttering for words.

The defender huffed at him, "She's one of the two saviors of the realm. Every dragon from every continent should be coming to this festival just to bow in respect to them."

Cynder could see this would keep going and sighed, "Veran, it's alright. If I was angry, he'd know." She said glaring at the stuck-up dragon briefly.

Veran scoffed, but nodded, "Sorry dear. I just remember my days of being a single father and how hard it was on the council some days. I know you're not a single mother but… it's never fair to stress a parent out more."

Cynder nodded thankfully, every dragon was staring at us and she blushed in embarrassment. Than the council leader became curious, "Last I heard you only had a daughter Cynder." She asked curiously.

Cynder nodded, 'We adopted two more abandoned hatchlings we found. Gale right here," she said leaning down and nuzzling me, "And an older dragonling named Kenra, who's actually a northern dragon."

The whole council seemed shocked by that news, and muttered amongst themselves. And before they could ask twenty questions Veran loudly spoke, "Alright alright! Leave the poor dragoness be! Perani what's Cynder's position in the festival?"

She nodded and looked down at her paper, "Oh it's uh… She's been requested as Aulura's… royal representative along with Spyro."

There was unanimous murmurs of surprise and a bit of jealousy from everyone, "Wait," Cynder started with a bit of a shocked expression, "You mean me and Spyro are supposed to be just as important as the other continents representatives?"

"Yes," Perani said, "You will be having dinner with them and showing them our wonderful city."

Cynder gulped and froze for a moment, "When do they get here again?"

"You have about three hours. The northern dragons are stopping at the temple first though, so you will be greeting the other two first." Perani said handing Cynder a schedule.

Cynder nodded slowly, "If that's all I think I… I need some air."

Perani nodded and Veran smiled, "You'll do fine Cynder. Go ahead and get out of here for now."

Cynder didn't ask twice as she bowed and left the meeting room quickly. Walking passed everything until she was outside once again. "Momma?" Kaali asked from next to me, "Are you okay?"

She deposited us out of the pouch gently, and we followed her over to a bush far enough from everyone. She promptly put her head inside of it and threw up. In pity I flew up and landed on her back and began rubbing it, "You'll do fine, momma." I said.

She slowly laid down in the grass and buried her face in her paws. I was beginning to feel worried and stepped back and shared that worried expression with Kaali. "Momma is sick," Kaali said.

I shook my head, "She's too nervous."

I walked over to her slowly and nuzzled her paw, she moved it away from her face to give me a small smile which quickly fell back into worry. "Cynder," I said catching her attention more than usual, "You're already the coolest mom. I know you can be the coolest representative too."

She brought me and Kaali in for a hug, "I hope so," she said quietly, "You three are the coolest hatchlings too."

Instead of having another class after lunch, all the dragonlings and hatchlings were to go to the main hall in the building as their new guests came in. It was still a mystery who was coming so everyone was excited and talking about it. Kenra followed his new group of friends slowly as they made no haste to get there first. His new friends had made sure he was even in the middle so that he wouldn't be harassed anymore today.

Ferra bumped into his side, "So, who do you guys think it is?"

Aiqen hummed, "Since today is the festival… most like an Iraxian or Rokani.

Summer hopped around a bit, "Oh oh, what if it's the royal queen of Iraxi!"

Seidan shrugged, "I've always wanted to see a Rokani in person."

Ferra bumped shoulders to catch my attention, "What about you Kenra?"

He hummed in curiosity for a minute, "Maybe it's some other dragon nobles from the city?"

They all thought about their ideas that washed through their brains. The excitement building until they could barely hold it. When they finally got to the main hall the four guardians were already standing outside of the door to their chambers in a line with Spyro. Terrador cleared his throat and the hall went silent instantly, "You guys know the rules of visitors. There will be absolutely no shouting, touching, pulling, or other unacceptable behavior. Refusing to follow this will land you a hefty punishiment. These are our honored guests and I expect you to all be respectful. Understood?"

There was a unanimous shout of "Yes sir." Terrador nodded.

It wasn't very long before we were all told to be quiet again. As the anticipation was building, the doors slowly opened and Terrador walked outside to greet the visitors. "Man I hope it's a Rokani." Seidan muttered.

Aiqen bumped him and whispered back, "You're only saying that because you basically look like one."

Summer giggled, "Aiqen you're one to talk for someone that looks as skinny as an Iraxian."

"Hey keep it down," Ferra shushed them, "They're coming in."

A few moments of waiting, Terrador slowly walked into the hall. Every single dragonling was standing as tall as possible to get a good view and Kenra struggled to see. A bunch of dragonling's already releasing awed reactions.

"No way,"

"He's scary,"

"I want to meet him!"

Aiqen was in awe as Kenra continued to try and get a view, "Now that… I wasn't expecting." He said.

"What, what is it? Who?" Kenra asked.

Seidan nodded, "Crazy… I didn't even know they could travel…"

Ferra suddenly pulled Kenra over to where her and Summer were, and he finally managed to see the visitors. A fully grown Northern dragon was walking in along with Terrador, he had dark gray fur over his entire body, and black chest plates, as well as a large beard that was braided with golden rings. His tail fur was braided as well, with another golden ring at the end holding it together. His face was stoic, and he had a scar crossing over the bridge of his muzzle as well as an ear which was tattered and torn.

Ferra excitedly smiled, "Wow another Northern dragon. Isn't he cool Kenra?" She said looking to her left.

Kenra was gone… she frantically looked around and caught sight of his black furred tail disappearing behind a corner. She quickly followed after him and caught up, "Kenra where are you going?" She asked worriedly.

She couldn't get a response and eventually grabbed his tail, "Hey, stop and talk to me."

Kenra finally turned and his face was pale, even through his black fur. He looked terrified beyond belief, and it sent a chill down her spine. "Kenra?"

Tears fell from his eyes, "Don't make me go back." He pleaded with his eyes wide.

"Kenra it's okay-" She began.

He flinched away, "It's not okay!" He yelled, causing Ferra to recoil, "That… out there, that is not a dragon, that's a monster." He said covering his face with a paw, his breath was shaky beyond belief.

Finally he started again, "I… I would know, he's my father."