A/n

Sorry it has been a while since chapters have come, but now I got a number of them coming for you readers. Again the story in general overall has not change, but details have, so enjoy the story!

Chapter 11: Solutions and Difficulties

-Neutral pov-

When it comes to solving problems, there are many different approaches to tackle the process. There is not a completely wrong approach to work with though there are those that are better than others are. However, it often seems, that when you solve one or some problems, there are always more that come to fill their place. A lesson so many learn over and over…

-Saber's pov-

I woke up slowly the next morning as the sunlight came through the window making sure that I couldn't go back to sleep. Habit then kicked in and the rest of my tiredness started fading, so I rubbed my eyes to rid them of the remnants of sleep. For one of the few times in the last week, I hadn't experienced weird dreams or nightmares that interrupted my sleep. So, I sat up in the bed, and thank goodness for beds, they make so much difference when it comes to proper quality sleeping!

It was then I noticed that the room was a bit different than it was last night when I got in and that was cause for me to pause. The first thing I saw was a single vertical line along the far wall, to which I blinked, not sure if I was seeing things due to still waking up or if I was really seeing what I thought I was. When the line didn't disappear, I took that to mean it was real and continued taking in the differences. My mind was becoming clearer now that I was more awake and so processing more clearly. I now recognized the line as a length of fishing line. I realized it wasn't one line but two lines that were so close that they looked like one line… and it was the same kind of fishing line that I had a reel of in my pack for emergencies of course mind you!

I kept tracing the lines with my gaze, seeing that both were tied to the left end bedpost. I followed the line as it ran from there to the torch bracket on the wall to my left. It was wrapped around in such a way that the bracket acted as a pulley. My mouth starting to open on its own as I took more and more in with what had been made. From there the line continued upwards to a hook that I would think was for hanging something. Although there was nothing there right now, in this instance was used as another pulley of sorts. The next object in this apparatus as this was becoming was the ceiling torch fixture and the line ran through that using the fixture as support. I craned my neck as I continued to follow the line from the ceiling fixture. The two lines split shortly after the ceiling bracket, one went to the torch bracket on the left of the door and the other went to the right bracket.

My gaze came to a halt at the sight that I wasn't really expecting yet, didn't take me by surprise either to see what I was. However, it took me a second to take in what was between the two brackets by the door. Although I should've known that this would come even after my warning, it should've been obvious that he would take entering my room as a personal challenge. For between the two brackets, one either side of the door, bound with duct tape from mouth to bottom was none other than the lightbulb with wings. Yes, the biggest annoyance in my life lately, the one who was the bane of my sanity and mental faculties, the one that oh so rarely listens to what others say, IC or Sparx the dragonfly!

By the look of it, he seemed to be out cold or maybe just sleeping can't say which from where I was sitting. Honestly, with IC I can never tell if he's faking or if he was serious with what he does. The two cables of fishing line were tied tightly to the loops in the duct tape on either side, these held duct tape that bound Sparx in place between the brackets. I just stared for the moment, since I didn't know whether to be mad at Sparx for breaking the rule I set down or to laugh at him for what had happened as the result of him breaking the said rule.

I had to admit to myself, I was very surprised at the apparatus that had been conceived here. I've been told by others at the dojo that I do very 'odd' things in my sleep and I'd thought that they were saying I talked in my sleep and said weird things or something like that. Although, my tune changed radically when one time said dojo mates recorded what kind of things I do, and I found out that when they said 'odd', they were being nice about it. And when I say nice, it was an understatement, I quite literally do really odd things when I am asleep and was shown recordings of some. It's probably the reason I have a lock on my door at my uncle's house, it's the reasons of survival of him and me would be in jeopardy otherwise.

The apparatus in the room that had been constructed was a prime example of my stated point. Yes, I haven't a doubt my mind I built it while I slept, every piece of it in fact since it was clearly planned out. Still, I can recall doing absolutely none of the planning, if there was any serious planning or of the building thereof. All I can say in my defense, my subconscious is a rather interesting thing in a few ways, that's for sure. That was especially true when my subconscious was left to its own devices as it often was when I sleep.

I came out of my thoughts to see IC starting to move and I believe, most likely trying to understand what was going on. I sighed at the futile attempt that Sparx was putting up and smiled for if I had built it, then good luck getting out of it sucker. I'll state it with pride, I'm extremely good at building traps whether awake or asleep. It is all about quality with me, this was a skill I had acquired over the years. "You know IC, saying I told you so … just doesn't quite say it," I said to the lightbulb with wings. IC just managed to glare at me in response, to which I shook my head, "I believe my exact words were and I quote, 'I warn you there will be consequences should you fail to do so. I can assure you will not like them. So do not go crying to Spyro if you get into trouble.' End quote. So, do not blame me for this! Although, I kind of like you in this position. It feels rather satisfying to see you pay the price for not listening for once. If only I had a video camera to record this moment for the times I need a pick-me-up."

I swung my feet around and placed them on the floor and stretched for I hadn't had a good night sleep as I did the last night in a long while, certainly not in the Dragon Realm. Took a deep breath and let it out and looked back to Sparx struggle with a smile. What better way to start the day than to teach Sparx a valuable lesson. I stood up and went to the end of the bed where the two lengths of fishing line were tied, "Sparx let this be a lesson to you. It is wise to listen to me now and then, please do keep that in mind."

Walking toward the door, I pulled a length of line and that undid the knot of the fishing lines losing their tension and the dragonfly dropped to the floor with an audible thump. He was still bound up with duct tape, struggling to free himself. I walked to the door grabbing my pack on my way, yet I stopped for a second at the door and looked down at Sparx. "I would wish you good luck on getting out of that, yet I would like a quiet morning for a change. So I will not wish you luck nor help you at this time, see you later ha ha ha."

I stepped over the lightbulb with wings who was still bound in duct tape and exited the room and I began wandering through the halls of the temple. It's partially to explore hopefully getting a layout of the place and also, just wondering for the hell of it as I do sometimes. As I saw no other dragons or dragonesses while I walked, I assumed that it's still a tad early in the morning for them, then again, I'd always been an early riser. The first up is the first to train and tends to get the best equipment and less distraction as Master Kai has said. I'd learned the particular lesson a long time ago at the dojo from watching the older students. After I 'd wander around a while, I found some stairs going down to the floor below and took them. I kept being amazed the sheer size of this temple, from my perspective no less. As I wondered the halls, an hour went by, just to give a perspective of the size from me.

I continued walking and came across a door slightly ajar and out of curiosity, I looked in. My jaw nearly dropped to the floor at the sight that I found for the feeling I experienced was akin to the feeling of a kid on Christmas morning. The room itself was huge and clearly had to be for training with the array of equipment in the room. There was everything from sparing areas to practice dummies for targets, to even an obstacle course of sorts. I hadn't imagined finding such a treasure trove of wonderful things… Now, this is what I'm talking about! Finally, a room I knew the function and am more than happy to put to good use whether others did the same!

It's as close to home as I was likely to get for the time being around here so I won't complain. This kind of place is home to me because I spent a great deal of time at a dojo and so this was similar. The bonus here was since it was just me, I'd unrestrained use of all this equipment and the whole room to my heart's content most mornings were I to guess. I could also try to hone the two elements I was able to control at this time while I'm here and not have to worry about another looking in on me at this time. I put my pack down and begun to stretch for the work out I would do this morning, full of energy now.

After the through warm up I grabbed Yubashiri and drew the blade, took a deep breath and settled into the Chūdan-no-kamae stance. My blade at a forty-five-degree angle in front of me, my feet set shoulder-width apart. It was a good stance that I could switch from defense to offense or vice versa quickly and effectively. I focused and cleared my mind as I had a habit of when I started to practice and train. I started with the basics as I normally did like downward swings and diagonal cuts. After going through the forms I was satisfied with the work and so I came back to the Chūdan-no-kamae stance.

I tried to think about how I got the elements of fire and electricity to come out. Fire element was rather easy to summon or work with, all I had to do was thinking of Sparx pushing my buttons and bingo fire element is at my disposal. Now I will admit that Sparx has a way that I can't explain or fathom to get under my skin like almost no other. So for him to push my patience past my tolerance point isn't hard for him. I can say that from growing experience now, that's how fire came to me before so it should happen again. At least that would be how logic would dictate and logic is one of the few allies I tend to have.

So I thought about how Sparx had pushed my buttons Yesterday afternoon and the familiar boiling anger came to my mind. The fire came at the same time with a quiet roar. It encompassed Yubashiri making it as a blade of fire. I was once again thankful that Yubashiri was made of Carbon Steel since the metal had no problem with any heat. That meant that Yubashiri wouldn't melt from the fire nor lose its strength or sharpness. I rushed over to one of the dummies I had set up and hit it with a horizontal slice. The cut was fluid and easy with no resistance. Literally, with the fire that was around Yubashiri, I could cut through with ease like a hot knife through butter. The dummy was cut in half and the top half fell to the floor. I calmed down and cleared my mind and the fire around Yubashiri disappeared as well. This seemed simple and rather straight forward, when I felt heated anger then fire responded to me.

Electricity was a little harder for it wasn't anger, but something different. I tried to think to remember how it felt when electricity had run through me. That guy Azreyel hadn't been just dodging the questions I had been asking, he had plain not answered me and to add insult to injury he said my questions had been foolish. It'd been extremely irritating as I recalled the experience clearly.

With the sound of crackling filled the air, I looked down to see Yubashiri was now covered in arcing bolts of electricity. Yubashiri's guard thankfully blocked the electricity from transferring to me as it was made of a metal that didn't conduct electricity really at all. Raised my blade then, made a downward swing of my blade seeing a bolt of electricity running along the floor and shot to the bottom half of the dummy and it flew at the wall. Okay, electricity reacts to extreme irritation check or maybe frustration. I would have to be careful about handling elements as this idea was proving. Elements did things that the wielder didn't always intend, that was a fact I was being forced to learn. Yet now I was getting to understand how the elements would react to me to an extent. I recall something my master would often tell me, 'Base emotions are powerful yet they lack focus, discipline, and control. One must delve deep to find the true feeling that is there. When that is found then will power comes that you can't imagine.'

So anger and annoyance are only the first step on manipulating the elements. That means I have a long way to go surely to get them to do what I intend them to do. I practiced using the two elements for a little over an hour when I heard the first stirrings other than my own that morning. I decided to call it good on practicing using elements for the moment and sheathed Yubashiri. I thought it best that Seth and Cyra be the only ones to know that I could control elements for the time being. My life was more than complicated enough for now without adding more things to the list! Besides, there's a lot I can still do in here other than element manipulation I can be very good with the skill of improvisation when I've good motivation, can be very good with the skill of improvisation when I've a good motivation.

Went to the far side of the room where the equipment that wasn't in use was stored to see what I could work with. It was then I noticed a group of twelve poles that were around nine to ten inches in diameter and a little over six feet in height. An idea came to mind that involved the said poles, which got me moving all twelve poles, not at the same time of course. I got them set in an area of about eight feet by six feet so that there were about two feet between each pole. I also set a platform by the pole so that I could get on top of them for the exercise I had in mind.

Now with the set up is done, I climbed on the box that I was using for a platform, then leaped up and made a couple of steps on the pole. I managed to grab the top of the pole and pulled myself us the rest of the way so that I was standing on it. There was enough room on the top of the pole for half of both of my feet to be on as I stood, yet not comfortably really. Yet, the point of this exercise was controlled fluid movement and balance, mostly balance though. I took a deep breath and made a little hop so that I was standing completely on my right foot and brought my mind into clear focus. Once I was ready, I began my martial arts training regimen which involved kicks and strikes with my hands while moving. I moved from pole to pole, maintaining my balance as I went, never missed a step. That was from the near thirteen years I had been training in martial arts plus, Master Kai had a routine similar to this.

After a while, I heard voices outside the room followed by the door opening that however though that didn't disrupt my focus. I prided myself and rightfully so on being calm and focused to the point that it was hard to phase me. I have developed a very strong mental focus while training. "My, you are up certainly early," said a female voice I had heard yesterday.

I landed on a pole top on my left foot and held my balance and I didn't move a muscle so that I could pause and not fall. I looked over to the speaker and found it was Spectra the Shadow Guardian along with Seth next to her. Seth was looking at me wide eyed and jaw dropped, which I would assume meant he didn't see these poles used as I'm using them. I smiled at them both, "Well, yes I am up at a time that some might consider early. Yet, I am usually up early by force of habit and I would think it is most likely due from getting up around dawn every day for years. I could be wrong, but that is my guess."

Spectra chuckled at my explanation, "Is that so?"

I nodded slowly in response to Spectra's question, then I had noticed Seth who was still wearing the same slack-jawed expression. "Seth unless that is some kind of jaw exercise to prepare for breakfast that I don't know about, then I recommend you close your jaw post haste. You look like a slack-jawed idiot and I would rather Sparx not gain competition in the idiot department, no personal insult intended," I said.

At the mention of Sparx and what I had said Seth immediately closed his jaw to gain a confused look. He seemed to get the confused expression at times when I talked with him. "What do you mean poe-sta hay-st and what is a slack-jawed idiot," he questioned.

I blinked at the question as I keep forgetting that the human language and the draconic language may be similar in several ways, but the draconic language didn't seem to have slang as English does. The other difference I was noticing was that where English is a language is one that relies on inference where the draconic language is one of blunt meaning. "Well, a slack-jawed idiot would be someone who gawks at things in an oblivious manner, normally with things that are obvious to most. As for the term 'post haste' for all intents and purposes means immediately," I answered.

Seth looked like he was thinking about what I had said yet, I thought it was a good time to change the subject. I hopped my way over to the pole I got up on before shimming down to the box then to the ground to be on a closer level to Seth at least since Spectra was a good deal larger than Seth. "So, what are you two doing together this early in the morning, if you do not mind me asking," I posed.

Seth looked away in embarrassment while Spectra giggled at Seth's reaction when faced me, "We often spend the early mornings walking together. One of the few times we get to spend together in the day," she replied.

I nodded in understanding as I started to get the point that Spectra was saying and Seth was embarrassed about. Now what was confusing me was why Seth was embarrassed to say the relationship between him and Spectra. It was rather obvious to me now, "Okay, so siblings spending quality time together, that's cool," I said.

Seth whipped back to me surprised at my statement, "Wait how do you know that," he started.

"You and Spectra are brother and sister? Well, perhaps it may be the many resemblances that say you two share sires. Or it could be the way you act around Spectra, then again it could also be the way she treats you like a younger brother. I don't know, take your pick," I remarked.

Spectra giggled again at my iteration, "He did get the facts right though how he does it I do not know," she commented.

"Observation, that is key and at least for human's families, they tend to have resemblances in appearance. Then siblings just have a different way of treating one another, it is that simple really," I answered.

Everything was going fine then, unfortunately, as my luck would have it, Sparx came into the room at that time. I glanced over at him then took a second look trying not to laugh at him. There was still adhesive that was left from the duct tape on him. "I have to admit IC not bad. It took you a little over two hours to get out of your predicament. I was going to bet that it would be at least three hee hee," I snickered.

Sparx glared at me as I glared back at him, it was as if we were both daring the other to bring it and make the next move. Spectra and Seth just stared at us both trying to understand what was going on. "How dare you," exclaimed IC.

I was taken aback at that statement, "How dare I? You are certainly one to talk lightbulb with wings. Do not place the blame for your trouble on me, especially when I gave you a clear warning last night! You chose not to heed me IC, so you have only yourself to be blamed for what you woke up to," I stated.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw that Spyro and Cynder came into the room. Spyro looked from me to Sparx and shook his head, where I continued where I had left off before they came in the room. "Unless someone else shoved you into my room in the middle of the night, you had to make the decision to go in yourself. And if someone pushed you, then I do not blame them for doing so, I understand some of the reasons they would. So, do not you 'how dare you' me annoying airhead, you are at fault, not me," I stated.

"Controlling master," IC shot back at me.

I sighed, "Ah so we are picking up where we left off yesterday with the name calling, so be it you egotistic fly," I replied somewhat tiredly.

"Unwelcome luck bringer," Sparx snapped.

Is that the best he's got?! That's not much of an insult anymore and hasn't been for a long while, more just stating of fact really. Guess it's up to me to show this fly how it's done and done right, "Badminton alternative birdie. Ooo B.A.B, I love it!"

Sparx glared at me, "Failed Student."

I froze at hearing that, for it was more than just mean to me, it poked at a subject that I take seriously. A wave of cold anger flow over me, but I asserted mental control, which only showed by my left eyelid twitching. I took a few breaths before I spoke, "That was as we humans put it 'below the belt' IC and that phrase means two things. The first meaning is that you hit a tender/sore spot, congrats IC, few do that with me, though I do not see it as an achievement. The second meaning, is saying indirectly, do not go where you are if you want things to stay even somewhat okay, So, I really, REALLY, recommend you reconsider the direction your insults are going Sparx!"

My voice had gained a sharp edge towards the end, I was starting to shake a bit as I finished my warning. The other sign of my emotional state was my breathing became ragged in response to the growing irritation that was transforming into anger. To be called a failed student right now, hurt more than it had the last few times for some reason. I had been called that name before, but it had been a while. It had been more when I had started at the dojo, it had been meant as a way to say I didn't belong there. I doubt that Sparx meant his insult to be the same as those that had come my way.

However, the memories of experiences of being told I didn't belong were sore one and still haunt me. They served as reminders of the horrible earlier times in my life, of which there were many when I was younger. My head fell to have me looking at the floor and none see my face as I fought not to get ahold of IC and squeeze him hard and it was a tempting idea right now! Silence hung in the room after Sparx's insult, "Is that all you can think to say? The one you had as a teacher would be ashamed in what you have done you till now I do not doubt."

The voices of the students who had thrown those insults echoed in my mind, along with seeing Master Kai's face with a disappointed expression and that hurt the most.

"You don't belong little brat."

"He is an embarrassment to the dojo."

"It would be better if he weren't here."

"What a failed student."

As the echoes of the past began bouncing around my mind, the control I was trying so hard to put forth slipped. It was like something in me had more than just snapped, and I lost my normal control I prided myself in having. I can take insults aimed at me, I've developed a thick skin over the years and my self-discipline covers the rest the vast majority of the time. However, I will not let another insult Master Kai in front of me, no matter who they are. If not for Master Kai I wouldn't be the person I am now or likely alive at this time and I mean that literally! He has helped me in ways no one had before or that I've said to others. I rushed forward and grabbed Sparx and began to squeeze, "You listen Sparx, and you better listen well!" I growled. "I will only say this once without enforcing my point that will have permanent marks accompanying them! You can insult me as much as you want in whatever way you can think of, feel free to go as long as you want. However, no one and I mean no one insults my master in my presence and gets away with it! If not for my master, I," my voice caught for a moment, but then I continued. "Let us just say you do not want to know how much worse off I would be than I am now any more than I do. You got that?!"

I let go of Sparx who went quiet, a rarity for him, but it seemed he got the message I had given. Yet, with the mood I was in now I knew I couldn't train and make it worth my while or time. Once again Sparx had irked me and it would be pointless to do anything to him. I let him go and let out a deep sigh. "Dang it, now I am in a foul mood! I cannot train effectively in this kind of mood. Oh well, I guess that means that training is done for the morning, thanks IC."

I made my way to the door, picking up my pack on my way, leaving the rest of those in the room staring after me. From there, I didn't really have a specific destination in mind, I just wanted as much distance from Sparx as possible right now, or else I might end out trying to get close to killing the Lightbulb with wings. My journey led me down the hall to the main door to the temple and exiting the dragon temple and into Warfang itself. So, it was my normal way of cooling down, time to myself away from the influences that were taxing me so much.

-Seth's pov-

Silence hung in the room after Saber had said his warning to Sparx, and honestly, Sparx had gone too far. What Saber had done to Sparx, I couldn't say, but that was not the point right now. Sparx merely smirked, "Is that all you can think to say? The one you had as a teacher would be ashamed in what you have done you till now I do not doubt."

Saber's head fell down so that he was looking at the floor, he had not said anything after Sparx had called him a 'failed student'. It was obvious that the name had affected him in a way that the previous ones had not. A moment later, Saber darted forwards and grabbed Sparx, "You listen Sparx, and you better listen well," Saber snarled, which caught all of our attention. "I will only say this once without enforcing my point that will have permanent marks accompanying them! You can insult me as much as you want in whatever way you can think of, feel free to go as long as you want. However, no one and I mean no one insults my master in my presence and gets away with it! If not for my master, I," Saber stopped for a moment, but then he continued. "Let us just say you do not want to know how much worse off I would be than I am now any more than I do. You got that?!"

Wow, I do not think I have seen Saber 'mad' before now, I mean yes, I have only known him for around a day, yet he did not seem like one who loses their temper easily. When Cyra froze his legs, he took it like it was nothing to worry about even forgave Cyra easily. With what Sparx had said, Saber had lost that calm air he has around himself and after Saber had spoken, he let go of Sparx. The dragonfly flew a short distance from him however, Saber's mood did not appear to improve for he let out a deep sigh. "Dang it, now I am in a foul mood! I cannot do routines effectively like this, I guess that means that training is done for the morning, thanks a bunch IC."

Saber stalked out of the room and I was about to follow after him as Saber still seemed frustrated about things. Yet, Spectra stopped me with her paw, "I think it is better to leave him alone for a time Seth," she said.

I glanced at Spectra to see she was giving me a look she had on occasion, which means to listen to what she says. Hesitating for a moment, but I nodded in agreement since I still was a little worried about Saber as this was different for him from what I know. After a minute, I turned my attention to Sparx, "Okay Sparx first what did you do earlier to Saber? Then why did you have to push that far? An annoying pain I know you can be and good at getting under one's scales as well. Yet, even you know there is a point for everyone that is too far and you hit it again. Saber was mad about what you said, that is clear. Why he took that badly, I have no idea, but that does not matter at the moment," I chided.

Sparx just hovered for a moment, then he sniffed, "I will not talk about what HE did this morning," he said, but didn't go into any detail.

Spyro gave Sparx a stern look then turned to me, "Whatever it was, I doubt was what moved things to this point. I think that Saber got mad more because Sparx was talking bad about the one who taught him how to fight. By what I've understood, he has learned many of life's lessons from the same individual. My brother should know better than to insult someone that another respects by now."

Sparx snorted at that, "Come on it was not that bad."

Spyro looked a little mad at Sparx, "Sounds like Saber would disagree with you there Sparx. You should know how highly Saber's respect is for his master, the way he talks about him shows that. His master is as important to him as Ignitus was to me," Spyro shot back.

Spectra cleared her throat, "Now everyone, that is enough of this conversation. I do not doubt that Saber will be fine, he seems resourceful and able to take care of himself. There is work to do today for all of us."

That was Spectra for you, one moment she was easy to amuse and joked around with everyone, the next she was completely serious. She could read a situation or conversation and tell if an intervention was needed. She could also be responsible when she needed to be, maybe those qualities were the reason that she was chosen to be one of the guardians.

-Saber's pov-

I'd gone from the temple down to the lower tier of the city, I figured that it would make enough distance from the problem I had for the moment. Plus, I got a chance to do some exploring and I had originally planned to explore the city today if the opportunity arose, whether I had to do some work for the idea or not. The difference from the plans and now was with the event with the golden pain in my rear this morning, it meant I got to explore by myself. Self-exploration is a bit of a hobby of mine and has paid off since I knew the town I lived in back to front. So, as I'm stuck in the Dragon Realm until further notice, I might as well get to know it the best I can, know the lay of the land and everything.

Once beginning my exploration, I started taking note of the city's people and structure style, specifically some of the good places that were not getting much attention. It was for future reference if a need comes up, you never know what kind of situations might pop up, extremely so with me and my luck. To say that the style of construction of this place was unlike any I'd seen or even really imagined in the waking world would be the truth. The architecture was quite impressive, and I know little to nothing about the subject, but the engineering and artistic ability had to have been huge. This city was certainly built to be nice inside and keep undesirables out of the city by what I could tell.

As for the 'inhabitance' here, I'm the lone human in a realm that the closest idea to human are apes and that's a stretch if you ask me. Of course, there were no apes as I got the impression that got along with the other raced of this realm. Still, do other people imagine what it's like seeing human-sized cheetahs which have individual spot pattern as one would expect to see? But said cats are standing on their back legs and walking like human beings would normally. Or there were the moles, yes moles but close to human-sized and they were also walking on their back legs. Both the cats and the mole were wearing clothes as people would daily as well.

So yeah, my appearance makes me stick out like a sore thumb, to say the least, compared to the rest around me. I definitely got weird looks from many or other glancing in my direction than looking away when I looked their way. I mean between the cheetahs and the moles, I suppose that human beings would look out of place in that mix for a few reasons, let alone dragons and dragonesses. By the impressions that I've gotten thus far, Apes are different than the other races in several ways, most non-nice ways. I quickly began practicing the normal habits I employ to be ignored by those I'm around, and they seemed to work like they normally do. Then I continued observing the city and its inhabitance while being ignored and my presence dismissed.

I was observing for a reason and it was a lesson or idea I've learned quite some time ago. If you want to know what a place is really like, then go to the lowest or poorest class or area of it to see how those there live and are treated. That fact in mind, I did see signs that the dragons good reputation was not just a show, they were kind to those around them. Most of the lower tier had moles living there though there were also cheetahs and other creatures that I couldn't exactly say what they were. Other than living quarters, there were also many shops and they gave a market kind of feel to the lower level of the city. Overall, most of what I saw spoke well of the dragons running of things, better than humans do of one another by what I've observed, but I reserve judgment for the time being.

While I explored, I was able to cool down somewhat although, that isn't to say that I had forgotten what Sparx had said by any means. Still, I've come to the conclusion it wasn't worth blowing up about at this time. Whether or not that meant I would get him back for his remarks was a different story, but I'll decide on that when I feel like it. Don't misunderstand, it's not that I hated Sparx per se, he can just be annoying as hell without much effort and for me to react to such is very rare for me. So, the less I have to think and worry about the overgrown housefly the better off my life was and would be.

When I got to what would be considered a market area, I looked at what kind of shops there were here, they could be the same or different from what I'm used to seeing back where I call home. Upon the point of shop types, there was everything from food shops to jeweler stores, even clothing stores, there seemed to be shops for almost everything one could want or need. So, when I spotted what appeared to be a blacksmith shop and foundry, I thought I might as well have Yubashiri looked at while things were kind of quiet. It's one of the mottos I live by, be prepared for when trouble comes your way, and that idea has saved my butt many a time!

Upon entering the place, the smell of smoke and heated metal filled the air, the heat was certainly palpable all around. This was definitely the place I wanted for someone to look at my blade and have a good job done! I glanced around for someone that I could talk to about the job I would like to have done here. There were a good number of moles working bellows and others pounding red hot metal, yet none seemed to be paying attention to the front door or any that might come in. What I wouldn't give for a bell of the kind you find at hotels for service, but then there wasn't a desk or table either.

Out of good manners, I decided to wait for a bit too hopeful to be noticed and then helped. However, after no mole even so much as glance my direction I took that as I would need to make my presence known if I wanted service. Plus, by what I saw, most if not all of the moles had what one would call glasses or instruments meant to correct poor eyesight. I took a deep breath and then bellowed as loud as I could, which is pretty darn loud, "HEY CAN I GET SOME SERVICE HERE PLEASE!"

My yell did get some attention to turn my way as intended for a couple of moles did look to see where the noise had come from and saw me. The moles that did see me jumped in surprise, likely since to them I probably just appeared. That also brought the thought that I couldn't really tell gender with moles. And now that I think about it, difficulty with gender differentiation was becoming common with races other than dragons.

Anyways, one of the moles moved forward towards where I was, "Oh sorry bout that, none of us saw you there," they said, and the voice gave the impression that the mole was a male. I nodded in acceptance but said nothing. "What can we do for you uh," asked the mole, leaving the question open to supply my name.

"Saber will do," I replied, not seeing a need to give my last name as they don't seem to be used here really. "As to what you can help me with, I was hoping that someone can take a look at my blade and give it a looking over, see if it needs repairs, sharpening, that kind of stuff."

The mole nodded, so I unslung my pack and took out Yubashiri and handed it over to the mole. The mole drew Yubashiri and looked it over. He then hollered for someone else I assumed. My hunch was confirmed when another mole came out for the forges. The two talked as I stood there. The second mole who seemed a bit older than the first took Yubashiri as examined it. The second mole waved the first to get back to work, and then he turned and faced me. "Greetings, my name is Hawkins. So you are the odd creature that came back with Spyro are you," he asked.

I nodded in response, glad that at least I am getting fewer ape comments, "Yes I am the one who came here with Spyro and my name is Saber, Hawkins. So, this may be a little early to ask this of you, but could you give my sword a once over. I mean repair any nicks that are there and sharpen the blade if you could please."

Hawkins nodded and took Yubashiri to a table and put the sheath at the end. He grabbed a magnifying glass and attached it to his glasses. He began to examine my blade closely and meticulously from top to bottom. Hawkins did this for around what I would guess to be a half an hour while I waited. He then turned the blade over and did the same examination for the same amount of time. For all that time I had first found a chair and sat in it though it was more child-size for me in my opinion, it would be the right size for a mole I suppose. I sat in the said chair and watched Hawkins examine my blade as I feel Yubashiri would be a necessary tool for me in this realm. As I waited, I watched the work of the other moles and taking in the environment of this place as I sat. Hawkins, after looking the blade over examined the hilt of Yubashiri, but shortly after that Hawkins put down Yubashiri and came over to me. "Your blade is unlike any I have seen, nothing like what the cheetahs use. It is not impossible to repair and sharpen, but you would have to leave it here for a day at least for us to do that," Hawkins stated.

I considered for a moment about being without Yubashiri for a day or more for I was a little hesitant to leave Yubashiri. I had Yubashiri for around three... no almost four years and had very rarely let another handle my blade or had out of quick access. Yet, it is better to get the work done now then to need more serious work later and potential failure. I nodded in reluctant acceptance, "Please do what is needed," I said evenly.

I walked out of the forge building, my pack back on my back, lighter without Yubashiri and couldn't help the sigh that escaped me for I felt uneasy without Yubashiri with me. honestly, could my life get much worse? Maybe this was my bad luck showing itself again, I don't know.

Then I heard the sound of rushing water coming towards me and I looked around trying to find where the water was before I reluctantly looked up. The water came rushing through the gutters above me, then dumped out of the drain for the gutter. As it was, I was right below the drain so the water drained on me. One would think that I'm kidding when I attribute this to my bad luck, but I'm not! And like most, I don't like to be in wet clothes, and that water was cold I found when it shot down on me. Now that's the bad luck that I have unfortunately become well acquainted with, I couldn't help the sigh that came followed by the grumbled at my misfortune. It was getting ridiculous, perhaps it would lessen were I to stop asking if things can get worse? I doubt it, but if my bad luck's answers that question any prompter with its response to me then I am going to be in real trouble.

The sound of someone giggling got me to turn around only to find Cyra giggling at me in my wet clothes, "I must say you seem to have quite a time with this 'bad luck' of yours."

Water was still dripping from me, I looked Cyra in the eyes, "Oh ha ha thanks for noticing. I go off by myself to get time alone from IC and I end up getting laughed at, oh this is just too rich to the point it is wonderful," I said this with as much sarcasm as I could so that there would be no question that I was being sarcastic. Yet Cyra stared at me confused at what I had said. I rolled my eyes as I keep forgetting that the draconic language doesn't really have sarcasm that I have seen just like it doesn't have slang. I have to wonder how one gets a point across in the draconic language without slang and sarcasm I will never know. I use it heavily on a daily basis, "I meant that where I went off to get away from Sparx I end up just being laughed at. It is funny in a way, I grant you, just not in a nice one," I replied.

Cyra snickered at my explanation, "It could be worse for you," she said.

She isn't wrong, but I know better than to make that dare and give my luck the opportunity to prove that to me. It is clear that Cyra is an optimist which is good to know, yet I still don't get her. First Cyra was a girl and that was a subject I had difficulty with being a guy and all. Second, she seems to take a different view on what I said than many do. "So changing the subject, what brings you around here Cyra," I asked.

"Oh well I was shopping for something and came across you here," Cyra replied.

I was going to grunt an ascent but instead gave a loud sneeze, then I wiped my nose and shivered slightly. I have had enough on being in wet clothes, so I focused my thought on what Sparx had said to me this morning. I concentrated on that I quickly felt the boiling anger, yet I was in control, that caused heat burst forth all over me and the water began to evaporate. Within minutes my clothes were dry and I had stopped shivering. I cleared my mind and the flames and heat disappeared. Cyra didn't show any notable reaction to my use of the elements so we simply moved forward, "I could give you some company if you would like," I posed.

Cyra happily nodded in answer and we then started off together looking around some of the shops. I kept my peace even though I was itching to ask what she was looking for and for whom. We finally stopped at a tapestry shop, at least that's what it looked like to me and Cyra went in and I followed after her. I was getting all the more curious at who this something was for as Cyra doesn't exactly come off as an art buff. I stayed near the door waiting for Cyra to finish but observing everything around me. When she had she came back to where I was and we left the store, then both of us kept walking and ended out at a restaurant. We had lunch together, which was very enjoyable. Now before I keep going I make this clear, Cyra's company is nice which that isn't always so with females with me. However, I do not see Cyra in a romantic way nor anything like unto that period!

Still, while we were on our way back to the temple I just could not stay quiet any longer about what she had been doing. "Hey, Cyra you said that you were looking for something for someone. Who is the someone if I could ask," I inquired.

"Hmm," Cyra hummed, "oh, the tapestry that I picked out will be for Cyril."

Huh?! Cyril that was unexpected, I hadn't seen that coming. I mean I wouldn't expect that Cyril was that kind of individual since I would seriously question… the age difference between him and Cyra. I can't say if there is such a thing as… oh, what is the word… oh yeah, pedophile those that go after those younger than them for inappropriate reasons. I haven't gotten the impression that there are such types of individuals in the Dragon Realm. I think there is more to this than the tangent I'm going down, "Uh okay, this may be a personal question so feel free to not to answer if you like, but what is your relationship to Cyril?"

Cyra smiled at me, "Cyril is my uncle."

Oh, that makes much more sense actually, rather than what I was thinking about… uh, never mind. I was still taken aback at that statement, I mean, I grant you that Cyril and Cyra do look a little alike. I guess I still had a good deal of things to get used to and more likely several things to come. Well, this experience was certainly turning out to be an adventure among other things and would seem to continue to do so.

A/n

And that's where chapter 11 will leave off, hope you're liking the rewrite please some of you take the time to write reviews, thank you for reading this.