Disclaimer: I don't own Spyro The Dragon, characters, or any Game, Movie, TV show, Anime Series content that is mentioned in this Fan/Fiction story. They belong to their respective owners and I honor and respect their great works.
P.S. Spyro The Dragon and other characters will not be in this story.
Chapter 3: Let's Train Together!
Gabriel was rather excited today. He was eager to learn more about becoming the warrior that was explained to him by, Sapphire. The other day they had talked about coming to the very spot where they agreed to meet on occasion. It was a place that was secretive and would be well away from any prying eyes so they may talk discreetly or train.
The Young man wanted to train to become the warrior that the dragon spoke of that fought against the darkness that is now plaquing the city and endangering all its inhabitants which included his family. When he nearly lost his sister at the playground when the monster that attacked it, he understood after that he will have to rise to the occasion to become a warrior.
The Crystal he had gave him the ability to transform into a mighty set of armor and he had powers of the element of ice. He chuckled when he recalled how he was given the name Frost Knight by his sister who unknowingly named the one that was her brother in disguise within his armor before.
It was a rather fitting title. He liked it a lot. It was just like the fighters he saw on TV. Merely kid shows that he still enjoyed to watch on occasion as they were quite entertaining and gave kids a good message on how to stand up for what is right and when you believe in yourself there is no monster or villain that can stop you.
It was quite the ironic moment when he thought about it. How truthful those shows actually were. Anyone would simply brush it off as mere foolishness just to give kids some entertainment but, Gabriel had found some truth in those shows.
It still rather surprised him on how little he actually knew. What he saw in those shows palled in comparison to the real thing. The monsters he had faced at his school on the first attack were vicious and formidable. The Beast that attacked the playground was relentless and fierce. He may have been able to stop them with the assist of, Sapphire but if he wasn't around at that time even if he did activate his armor he could have died in those battles.
Those shows he watched made him realize that this wasn't some game. In the shows the hero's almost never had to worry about dying as the power they wielded protected them from every manner of attack and though they got knocked down on occasion they always got back up to take the fight to the bad guy in them and win.
But here in real life it wasn't going to be like that. Watching the news on how the monsters had utterly destroyed some of blocks in the city and inflicted many casualties upon the populace proved they were not some goof off two bit villains looking to rob a bank or flip over a lemonade stand they were there to cause chaos and destruction and according to, Sapphire they will not stop until they take over not only the city but world itself and seek out the only ones that have any capability at stopping them and kill them.
Gabriel didn't wish to die and at first, he didn't want to be part of any of this. He believed that if he simply did not do anything, he would remain safe and his family as well. But the attack that nearly cost him his sister proved that he had no choice. Be it he fights or not the enemy will come after anyone no matter if they are something of importance or not. He had to take action or will end up like the many poor souls that fell to the dark creatures.
The young man realized more than ever he will have to take a stand and learn more about the crystal he possessed along with understanding the power that came with it. He was fortunate to have learned how to activate it and use some attacks with the power of the element of ice. But if he didn't learn more than he may not last long in the next fight that was to come.
There was no telling when that would happen. As, Sapphire had put it the darkness was coming and every manner of monster that was commanded by the overlord of it known as the Dark Master. The story he was told by his new friend that talked about how his own world was taken over by him and his friends, family and all that he knew was no more saddened him. He had mistreated the dragon when they met, and it hurt him that he said some mean things to him.
The Dragon had easily forgiven him due to everything happening so fast and having been through so much it was hard for him to take in but that is why he had to understand what was at stake so what befell, Sapphire's home would not happen to his.
Gabriel was watching the clock as it was going to be noon soon. He could hear his sister upstairs in her room playing with her toys as he could hear the tv coming from her bedroom as she had a movie playing with some of her favorite programs on it.
He smiled as his sister was having fun with herself. Even after being in something so horrible that would have traumatized her for life, she still had an innocent heart about her, and nothing gripped upon her that made her quiver in fear. He heard her pretend to be like the warrior that had saved her the Frost Knight.
Gabriel chuckled as he listened to her make playful battle cries and striking down foes that tried to hurt the innocent. Perhaps he could learn something of bravery from her. When he encountered those monsters, he was scared deeply and after the battle he would shake from the fear that he nearly lost his life or nearly lost someone he cared so much for.
His sister was someone very special. She was playing like there was nothing to worry about. The Way she was pretending to be the warrior that saved her gave her hope that nothing would ever happen to her as she believed she had a protector to admire. If only he could tell her that it was her very brother that saved her.
He wished he could tell her but either she would not believe him or that could put her at more of a risk than she already was in. It was better it stays secret as the less people knew of him being the warrior that protected the city and its people the better. If his mother found out no doubt, she would immediately take away the crystal and lock it up preventing him from using it as she would never allow any of her children to put themselves in harms way.
Gabriel loved his mother very much. She could be hard on him at times, but he knew she loved him and his sister more than life itself. This was hard for him not to tell her as she always would say nothing hurts a family more than secrets would. But this secret had to stay as such for the good of all.
Those characters he would watch on those old shows made everything look so easy. They could save the world without hardly breaking a sweat and come home and enjoy the company of family and friends and with those that knew their secret would talk about their battles and gloat over their triumphs and welcome the next fight.
That is another thing that worried, Gabriel. When would be the next fight? The Dark Master could send more monsters to attack at any given moment. He barely knew how to use his power and yet he was now solely responsible to protect countless lives including his family. How could one teenager and one dragon stand against such evil?
This would be part of the training he was eager to do as, Sapphire had the knowledge to share with him and the experience to teach him what he must know if he was going to continue to stand against the rising darkness that was coming.
He continued to listen to the playing of his sister from the living room at the bottom of the stairs hearing how she has vanquished the monster and was accepting praise and cheers from a crowd surrounding her. His sister was adorable, and he was happy that she was not traumatized by the incident in the park. If he was in her in that situation he would be scarred for live. Not to say he was not scarred already.
Everything happened at once to where he was ready to give up before he even began but he had a better understanding now and there was no turning back or hiding at this point. He needs to make a stand and learn all he can or everything he knew and loved would be no more.
After nearly losing his sister to a monster he was going to stand tall from that moment on. His family was put in danger and he was not even going to take a stand. He wanted to live a normal life but destiny had called to him as, Sapphire had put it in his own way. If it wasn't for the dragon and himself he would have lost his sister. His mother would have been shattered with the loss of one of her children and his sister was under his care at the time. To face his mother who entrusted him to care for his little sister and failed would have completely destroyed the woman and possibly disown her son for his failure.
Gabriel put his hands on his face as sadness gripped upon him over the thoughts of him nearly losing his family. If it wasn't for, Sapphire then he could have lost his family and maybe himself long before. Those monsters attacked the city and the playground and they already inflicted many innocent people to their deaths. And Gabriel and his family were close to being part of that if, Sapphire not only came to save him but encouraged him to activate the power he had with the crystal.
That dragon had done so much for him and, Gabriel still had much to learn and understand about him. All that he knew so far was that the darkness that threatens him, his family and even the world right now had annihilated the realm where the angel dragon comes from.
It pained, Gabriel to know that the dragon had suffered such immense loss. There was no telling how he was feeling. His family and friends and all that he known were gone. Something that, Gabriel was close to understanding if the dragon had not interfered.
Gabriel squeezed the sides of his head lowering himself down. Here he was thinking of himself a short time ago running away from the dragon and not wanting to be part of anything that involved himself being put in danger and that decision almost cost him someone he cared about immensely. He was extremely selfish, and that rash action made him feel terrible.
But when he morphed into his armor and saved his little sister from being killed and stopping the monster that no doubt would have caused such mass destruction and chaos he felt an overwhelming sense of good that made him feel proud. He had stopped an evil creature from harming anyone. There already were many that lost their lives in the first attack that never had a chance. Gabriel couldn't have stopped it then as he was somewhere else before he saw the monsters themselves and when they attacked him the first time but now he understood that he had a chance to prevent more innocent people from suffering the same fate.
Listening to his sisters playing upstairs made him smile again she was continuing to enjoy life and she had someone to look up to other than her family. Thanks to both him and the dragon she still had a life ahead of her, but her life still was in danger and she did not know about it.
Gabriel had one thing he understood that he had to take the stand now if he was going to continue to protect his family and the many innocent people that were still quite unaware of the danger that was coming. The Attacks on the city did put the authorities on alert but the darkness that was upon them were beyond anything they were capable of defending from.
Despite humanities technical achievements and all their advanced weaponry there was little they could do against what was coming. Gabriel thought more on, Sapphire the dragon. If where he came from did not have a chance at defending themselves from the Dark Master and menacing minions what chance did, he and humanity have?
This did worry, Gabriel. Even if he did train and become a mighty warrior with the power of ice under his will and becoming something, more could he face the darkness and win? He did win the fight against the shadow demons and the creature that attacked the park, but he had, Sapphire at his side at the time. Only with the dragons help and encouragement did he stand a chance. Granted he was untrained and unwilling at the time but what was he capable of doing without the dragon. There was something about, Sapphire that felt familiar to him, but he could not place a finger on it.
Gabriel now wanted to rise to the occasion. The Threat upon his family was enough to make him desire to become a warrior. Even if it seems impossible that he was anything of warrior material he was ready to train with, Sapphire.
The Young man looked at the clock to see it was nearly noon. It would be a great time to leave the house and go talk to the dragon and see about starting to train. He was now starting to fill with enthusiasm. Temporarily forgetting about the coming of darkness and the worry about death. He figured that as long as he thinks about that and the mistakes, he made he would feel all the more guilty and afraid.
He wanted to think of something else to keep his mind off of it. Listening more to his sister pretending to be on another adventure facing down evil doers and saving lives made him grin. Perhaps he should be more like his sister. Despite all that had happened she was filled with hope and courage. Maybe she should be the one that should be trained to be a warrior. She may be younger than him, but she possessed more courage than he had.
But he had the crystal and as, Sapphire put it only he was capable of becoming the warrior he is meant to be. It cannot be tossed away or given to anyone else only he has the power now to use it for the good of all.
Gabriel stood up as felt a grumble in his stomach. He wasn't that hungry, but a snack would do him good to help him clear his thoughts and cease the grumbling in his belly. He went to the kitchen and gathered an apple from the basket of apples on the counter. One thing that his mother always prided herself on was that her children ate well and remained healthy. It was her rule that both her children eat at least one apple per day if not more as she didn't want fattening junk food that would make her kids become sugar crazed.
Though at school, Gabriel would sometimes buy a bag of chips during lunch in the cafeteria he enjoyed an apple now and was about to bite down on the apple till something flashed in the side of his left eye that came from the window.
Gabriel looked to his left looking out into the backyard seeing the woods where soon he would go into and saw a shadow figure step into woods. It looked to be human, but he only got one second to see him before he vanished.
It was odd he saw someone as there were neighbors but no one would enter the woods at least no one he knew as most desired to stay in their homes and since figure entered from his backyard either there was someone who took something from his yard or it could have been something else. Either way he had to find out.
The Time of noon soon rang as the clock sounded at the middle of the day. How convenient that, Gabriel would spot a being heading into the woods around the time he wanted to leave. Taking one more listen upstairs to make sure his sister was still at play he put down his half-eaten apple and went to the door putting on his shoes and left outside the backdoor.
He did not have to worry about his sister finding out that he was gone as usually she would stay in her room a lot. She would play with her toys or be watching tv of her favorite shows and movies. And in this case, them being both of them. Sometimes she too would come down for a snack and even if she notices her brother wasn't around, she would assume he was outside doing a chore or in the bathroom and wouldn't bother.
With his mother out at work and will not be home till later in the afternoon he didn't have to worry about being caught gone and leaving his sister alone. Though it was concerning for him that he would be leaving his sister alone in the house by herself after what happened in the park, he had to see who was going into the woods from his backyard.
Gabriel headed out into the woods disappearing from the sight of his home and hoping nothing happens while he is gone. He walked down the tiny trail in the woods as the woods were surprisingly silent. There were no sounds of birds chirping and with not even a breeze the leaves in the tree's were dangling without movement.
The stunned silence of the woods made, Gabriel feel rather uneasy. It wasn't often that the woods would be without a single sound. He stepped on a twig that snapped in half that made him leap forward from the sudden snapping sound.
He tried to think on who it was that he saw come into the woods. It looked to be human but younger than he was. But since he only saw the apparent child for a second he didn't get a good look upon him. If it was a child, he would have to find it quickly as anyone could get lost in the woods if they didn't know where they were going and if they didn't know the woods as well as he did. At least to where he knew the trails that led through it and just off some of them.
Gabriel followed the trail through the woods and saw there were footprints that lead down the trail. The Prints were left by shoes and it seemed to belong to a child as he had thought. He had to find that child quickly till he saw the footprints go off the trail and into a part of the woods only he knew where it would go.
It could not be a coincidence as the prints went off the trail and into the part of the woods where, Gabriel and Sapphire would meet. Something was off about this and he had to find out what it was as he quickened his pace hurrying to where he believed he would find the child.
He pushed through some bushes and found the spot where he and dragon last talked and made an agreement that it would be a suitable ground to talk and train secretly as no one would know about and standing right near the creek that flowed through it stood the child that, Gabriel was looking for.
The Childs back was turned to him keeping him from noticing, Gabriel. He was about to come out of the bushes and ask who the child is and why was he out her in the woods but something about the child seemed familiar to, Gabriel.
Then the child bent down over the water and reached into it and pulled out something from within. To Gabriel's surprise it was a sky-blue crystal the same as the one he had that gave him his extraordinary power. Why was there another in those waters and that child seemed to reach in and pick it up like he knew it was there and was not seemingly in awe about it.
"Hey there!" Gabriel called over to the child. "What are you doing out here and why do you have that crystal?" Gabriel walked over to the boy and the boy turned his head in, Gabriel's direction and to, Gabriel's shock it was actually himself when he was ten years old.
How could he be seeing his ten-year-old self? Something was indefinitely not right about this but before he could ask the child in front of him when he remained silent another question, he suddenly vanished like never was there.
Gabriel gasped when the child of himself vanished so suddenly. That is when it suddenly hit him. He had to be dreaming as nothing could vanish like that in reality. But why would he be dreaming like this it still did not make sense of anything.
"You have questions. I shall answer some." A voice that was loud and yet steady rung out through the tree's making, Gabriel turn around in various directions not seeing who had just spoke to him.
He was worried and hoped that this was a dream and not in the real world. Sapphire was no where to be seen and the voice that spoke to him was definitely not the dragon he knew.
"What's going on?" He yelled concerningly. "Who's there?" He panted heavily as fear began to grip him.
"Be calm, young one. I mean you no harm." The Voice assured. "Now turn around and fret not for I am here to talk with you."
Gabriel slowly turned around still feeling rather afraid but when he did he found himself staring at a dragon but to his surprise it was not, Sapphire but a different dragon that was covered in white feathers and glowing silver eyes that twinkled like a star.
The Dragon felt familiar to, Gabriel like he saw him before but he couldn't remember but he eased himself when the dragon did not make a threatening move to him showing that he was telling the truth that he wasn't there to harm him.
"Who are you?" Gabriel asked as the dragon stood in front of him with a kind smile.
"My name is unimportant right now. First, you need to understand that your destiny must take true hold over the crystal that you carry." The Dragon explained as, Gabriel's right hand glowed and the young man found he has his crystal right in his hand but that was strange how did it get into his hand suddenly.
Gabriel had many questions, but one question did come to mind. He had to clarify something that was imbedded into his mind since the first crisis happened. "Why me? Why not anyone else?"
"My child, destiny has a way of choosing those that may not possess qualities that many do have but the purest of hearts can out make the true difference in times of hardship hopelessness." The Dragon answered.
"But how could this all happen? Sapphire told me his tale, but I don't think I know everything." Gabriel said feeling like he doesn't know the entire story yet. Something about this white feathered dragon seemed like he knew a great deal. Perhaps he may have some answers.
"Your correct, young one. There is still a great deal for you to learn. Allow me to show you." The Dragon blew a buff a smoke in front of him that formed into a circle and, Gabriel could see a land filled with green pastures filled with farms and villages and even a large castle overlooked by a cloudy sunny sky and standing in front of the gates of the castle stood five humans wearing various sets of armor that looked to be representations of different elements including one that looked like the one he had.
Behind the five humans were five dragons that looked to be partnered with each of the humans. "Who are they?" Gabriel asked.
"Those are the Crystal Knights and their dragon partners. Together they safeguarded the realm and protected all from the forces of darkness. For a time, peace was everlasting thanks to their protection." The Dragon explained.
"What happened?" Gabriel asked next.
"Trickery, deception, and betrayal caused the loss of the realms best defense." The Dragon sighed sadly as he continued to explain. "They were true warriors and good friends. Greatly missed as without them the Dark Master took over the realm and when the King understood that no longer he could protect his realm and safeguard the only thing that could stop the Tyrant he shattered the Crystal of Miracle and scattered it to the realm of earth along with the crystal elements to safeguard them before they could fall into the hands of the Dark Master."
"Oh my…" Gabriel wheezed in horror as he saw through the illusion of smoke showing the once-proud land overcome by the darkness as bodies laid in waste across a hollowed land and once-proud structures were toppled and lay in ruins. "…its horrible!"
The Dragon nodded in agreement as he cast the smoke aside having shown, Gabriel enough of it. "You need to fully accept the responsibility now, young one. The fate of your world rests in you hands now. You must realize it and accept it completely otherwise the same fate lies in store for your realm."
Gabriel was afraid after seeing what had befallen the realm that no doubt, Sapphire had come from. It was a miracle he had to escape such madness. The Former warriors had fallen and if they did what hope did, he have? But he could allow this to happen to his home and his family. Clenching his fists, he nodded. "I do accept it. Now more than ever." He replied. Then he recalled there were four other warriors in the illusion he saw.
"But if I am one of five warriors where are the others?" He asked. "Who are they? Surely I am not the only one?"
The Dragon nodded. "Indeed. You are the knight of justice. There is the Knight of Beauty. The Knight of Courage. The Knight of Nature. And the Knight of Knowledge. Each of them possesses an element that only they can wield much like yours which is the element of ice."
Gabriel nodded in understanding. "But, where are they?"
"You must seek them out yourself. Only together can you be unstoppable." The Dragon told the young man. "It is time for you to wake, child. We shall speak again."
Everything around, Gabriel began to fade away but then he realized he did not yet get the dragon's name. "But wait! Who are you?"
The Dragon spread out his wings just as the area around them faded along with the dragon. "I shall be your guide! We will meet again. Farewell!"
{Awaking World: Gabriel's Room}
Gabriel's eyes shot open as he woke with a startle. He lifted himself from his bed and found himself in his room. It all was a dream, but it felt so real. He knew it was not anything that would be conjured up into his mind. Everything in the dream was as real as it could get.
He looked out his window to see it was already sunrise. He then looked at his clock to see it was past seven. His mother would be at work right now and it would have concerned him as he would have been late for school but it was Monday and after the first attack by the monsters that ended near his school they decided not to reopen till Tuesday which to all the students it was an extra day off from school.
He could already hear his sister next door to his room was already at play with her toys and enjoying her favorite movies. This was the perfect time to head out into the woods and find, Sapphire and tell him about his dream and start on training. After seeing now what had befallen, Sapphires world he had to be prepared for what was going to come and he could only pray that it wasn't soon.
Quickly he changed from his pajama's and into jeans and a T-Shirt with socks. He gathered his backpack and stepped out of his room shutting the door behind him and carefully tip-toeing passed his sister's room not wanting to get her suspicious that he was stepping out.
He went to the kitchen downstairs and began to gather some supplies. He was hungry for breakfast but could not waste time sitting at the table to eat. He quickly took an apple and ate it quickly not bothering to enjoy the apple-eating it down to its core. He then gathered four more apples stuffing them into his backpack along with some tiny bags of fruit snacks and some toaster strudels.
Gabriel wanted to find the dragon quickly and begin the training for the faster he would learn of how to become the warrior he is meant to be the better chance he will have when the next attack comes or maybe counter it before any destruction could happen.
Once he gathered what he believed was enough for a few hours he put on his shoes and headed out the door carefully shutting it behind him. Gabriel was now more determined than ever to become the warrior with no doubts left in him. He was certain, Sapphire had much to show and teach him.
{Next Scene: In The Woods}
As, Gabriel walked through the woods heading for the same spot that he and, Sapphire agreed to meet at he had an uneasy feeling like someone was watching him.
The Feeling was just as indeed someone was from the treetops. A Figure wearing a white mask gazed down at the young man smiled within the mask. But when Gabriel stopped and looked up into the trees he saw nothing and the figure that was watching him vanished when his gaze came upon where he was perched. Gabriel shrugged off the feeling and hurried to meet with his dragon friend. Suddenly, something started buzzing my right pocket so I reach down with my right hand and take it out of my android smartphone it's a text message from Jeremy.
Text Message Sence
Jeremy L: Hola amigo (Hello friend)
Gabriel K: S'up, Jeremy. How're doing, bro?
Jeremy L: I'm doing fine thank, you what about you, Gabe?
Gabriel K: Same as usual. Did you hear the news yesterday at noon?
Jeremy L: Si (Yes) I've heard about what happened yesterday, the news reposted toke us the monster attacked our town two blocks away, lucky for us nobody got hurt all 'thank to that the one with the sky blue mask armor along with sky blue real-live Continuar (Dragon), I thought it a fake one but Continuar (Dragon) it's a real deal, Ya sabes? (You know)
Gabriel K: Yeah Jeremy, I agree with that, I've just hope those two come back again and defense the towns from these monsters.
Jeremy L: Sure it will. Hey amigo, how bout if we could hang out at my house.
Gabriel K: I wish I could come by, but I can't hang out with you today I'm watching over my little sis Marie.
Jeremy L: Aw~~ man.
Gabriel K: Sorry...
Jeremy L: It's Alright... I've can't believe we had School tomorrow on Tuesday.
Gabriel K: Yeah, hey saying I'm better it going we should talk about it tomorrow including our other friends as well.
Jeremy L: Sure, See ya later, Gabe.
Gabriel K: You too, Jeremy.
End Text Message Sence
Gabriel put his smartphone back in his pocket and counted rushed in the forest. Gabriel was trying to hurry to the spot where he and, Sapphire would meet up. He was very eager now more than ever to start his training. When he thought back to the previous battles that he had fought with the dragon by his side he understood that in those occasions he was very lucky. Not yet having a true understanding of the powers he possessed or more of the knowledge behind his armor that all came from his crystal he was very fortunate to have gotten himself killed or losing someone important to him.
It grieved him in a way on how he nearly lost his sister that one time. He was ready to throw away the crystal and not have anything to do with it. He didn't want to be in danger, and he did want to have his family endangered because of the duty and responsibility that came with crystal. But he quickly discovered that he had no choice as he along with all others in his realm were in danger indefinitely.
If it wasn't for the interference of the angel dragon, Sapphire on both counts he would have lost his life and that of his sister. Never again! Gabriel was more than ready to learn more of his capabilities. The Secrets that the crystal he possessed had and gain better knowledge of what he had to do to help safeguard his realm and find the others that will join in his mission to stop the coming darkness and the Tyrant that lead it.
Gabriel followed the trail that led to the spot in the woods where he would meet the Dragon. He then found the tiny opening that led down a separate trail that was not much of a path that led off of it and he ventured down it. Soon enough he came upon that very spot seeing a tiny creak flow through it. He made out the cave near the tiny creek.
He took a seat on the nearby boulder putting down the belongings that he brought with him. He looked around but, Sapphire was nowhere to be seen. He looked at the cave just over the creek in front of him and something in his mind stirred. Something about that cave which was covered in overgrown weeds and a few tree roots protruding through it had something familiar about it.
The Cave looked like it could have an animal living inside of it. Possibly even, Sapphire's size. He believed the dragon would come out from it and greet him. But it couldn't be as the Dragon at least from when he had begun to know him didn't live in a cave which did beg the question where did, Sapphire live? It had to be around these parts and far away from humans to avoid being seen. Having heard his tale of living amongst humans for so long since the loss of his home and his people he may have had a way to stay clear of human eyes.
He then heard the sound of flapping wings as he was suddenly enveloped in a shadow. Gabriel looked up to see the sight of, Sapphire who was giving him a warm smile as he settled down close to the boulder.
"Good morning, Gabriel. Its wonderful to see that you have come." The Dragon greeted kindly.
"Morning, Sapphire." Gabriel said standing up from the boulder and went up to the dragon to give him a soft pet on his side. He admired how the Dragon's fur felt so smooth and warm. He could imagine that a harsh winter would not affect his friend with thick furry build.
The Dragon purred at the soft touch of, Gabriel. His feel of his fur let him know that the young man was ready to begin. This will
be the next step in his journey on becoming the Knight of Justice.
"Are you ready to learn this day?" Sapphire asked.
"More than ever now, Sapphire. I want to learn all that I can about becoming a warrior. I want to help my world and if there is a chance at defeating the very thing that took everything from you I want to do my part in helping against it." Gabriel stated with pride indicating that his thoughts and his feelings were true behind his words. There was no longer any doubt in his heart. He was still afraid, but he could not let it stop him from doing what he had to stand a better chance against the darkness that was on the rise in his realm.
"That's wonderful to hear, Gabriel." The Dragon leaned his head down and nuzzled the human making, Gabriel giggle slightly.
"Please gather anything you brought with you as I intend to take you somewhere more suitable for your training."
"Oh! Sure thing!" Gabriel nodded as he headed back to the boulder and gathered his backpack and went back to the dragon.
To Gabriel's surprised the Dragon lowered himself down to the ground. "What are you doing?" He asked.
"Where I am taking us is far away. A Good distance from any human whose eyes cannot see us as we go about in your training." He explained. "You can ride on my back as we go along."
Gabriel chuckled nervously. "Are you sure?"
Sapphire chuckled. "Not to worry we are not going to fly. At least not yet. You will need as much of your energy saved up as possible for when we get there. Allow me to get you there without exhausting yourself before we even begin."
Gabriel wasn't entirely sure about this, but he trusted, Sapphire the dragon would do him harm and would keep him safe as he always had since the day they met. He carefully climbed onto his furry back just above his wings as Sapphire stood back up.
"Hold tight." The Dragon grinned as he walked on with his passenger, Gabriel already was enjoying the ride as the dragon walked carefully and with ease.
But as the Dragon walked out through the woods he and, Gabriel did not realize they were being watched by a dark figure in the trees above them as it spied on the duo wondering where they were off to and followed in secret.
{Secne Change: Not too far away in the forest}
Gabriel continued to sit on the back of, Sapphire as the dragon walked on through the woods. The Dragon kept a slow steady pace being sure not to make the ride too uncomfortable for his passenger. This was the young man's first-time riding on the back of a dragon. At least at this age if he ever could remember the years past before they met under an unfortunate set of circumstances.
Sapphire walked over some logs and sometimes leapt over them like a cat bounding over a ledge to reach another area. Gabriel was amazed by the dragon's reflexes. There was so much of the dragon that he believed he did not know of. He knew of his story, but he felt there was so much more that he thought he could ask the dragon more of himself later. The Dragon had been on earth for centuries. So much he has seen from the time when humanity hardly had the first gun made. To have knowledge of the year's past would be something of interest to know about.
The Young man continued to enjoy the ride he was receiving. The way Sapphire walked hardly was a bother to him. It was an amazing feeling to be riding on the back of something. Most people on Earth would be riding on horses mostly and the closest thing that he ever came to that was riding on a fake horse ride at the local grocery store as a child. And now he was riding on the back of a dragon. A Creature of legend and myth.
Such a wonderful joy. He almost lost his composure and squealed like a happy little child. There was no one on this world that could say they got to ride on a dragon. He felt so lucky. Casting aside the danger he was in in the past few weeks this was fun. He was enjoying himself as he rode upon the dragon that proved to be an ally and better yet someone he could call a friend.
Gabriel owed Sapphire so much by now it seemed it would be a dept he could never repay. First is when he came for him the day the monsters that attacked his city came and nearly killed him. And when Gabriel tried to cast him away not wanting to be in such danger he came back again and helped him save his sister.
So much has the dragon done for him and he may have thanked him for all of it, but no amount of thanks could be enough to let, Sapphire know just how much, Gabriel has appreciated him since those fateful days.
The Dragon kept up his pace through the forest as, Gabriel looked out from upon the dragon's back. He saw birds in the trees remain on the branches as they watched the fur-coated dragon walk through the forest then flying away when he came too close to them. Though the dragon never would lay a paw on any animal it was by instinct that all animals feared something they did not know and if it appeared to be much bigger than themselves.
Sapphire continued onward as for the time being both he and the young man on his back didn't say anything. Gabriel was enjoying the ride as the dragon gave him a smile as he leapt over a large boulder bounding over it much like a cat would which was quite fascinating.
"Your almost like a cat you know?" Gabriel pointed out holding onto the fur gripping it tightly when the dragon bounded over the boulder and started heading downhill. Though he gripped the fur real tightly he wondered if it was doing the dragon any harm like if someone was pulling his hair.
"I'm not hurting you, aren't I?" Gabriel as the dragon reached level ground.
"No, you're not," Sapphire assured as he carried on walking slowly through the woods that reminded him so much of his home that had missed so much. Even after so many centuries, his home was always on his mind. What was once a place of beauty and Zen was gone forever. The Dark Master had brought destruction and doom upon a once sacred realm that was standing peak of hope and love. Now it was nothing but a wasteland where the entirety of survivors that could still be within are either slaves to the Dark Master's will or are doing their best to survive but every day their lives hung by a thread with their hope diminished.
The Dragon sighed sadly as he looked at the many tree's around him. They stood tall and untouched. The only beings that came close to them were animals that either made their nests and burrows within the branches and roots. Perhaps a dozen or more thrived upon each tree that relied on its source of food and safety. Every live was precious even those that were only bound to nature itself. And once his home world was filled nearly endless forests that bristled with life and now it was all gone. The Tree's were dead. Animals had fled or been killed, and nothing remained but a cold dead land all due to the warmongering Dark Master.
Gabriel noticed the Dragons look grow sad. "Hey, you okay?" He asked leaning over to his left side to look at him better. The Dragon looked back at, Gabriel with a sad look.
"Not entirely, Gabriel. I have a lot on my mind at the moment." The Dragon replied his voice indicating he was in downed mood.
"You can tell me. I'll listen." Gabriel told the dragon giving the side of his neck a soft pet making the dragon purr slightly making, Gabriel quietly as he truly was almost like a cat. He wondered if there was any kind of affiliation or relation they had to common animal that was both a house pet and an animal of the wilds.
The Dragon smiled at, Gabriel's kind offering. "You're a generous young man, Gabriel. A Trait that makes your worthy of the crystal you carry." He complimented. "I am rather upset."
"Not with me I hope!" Gabriel nervously said.
"No! Not with you! I am thinking about my home." The Dragon admitted.
Gabriel nodded his head. He couldn't have imagined what that was like for, Sapphire. He had lost everything. His family. His friends. And his entire home. Everything he loved was gone. The Details of how it all really happened remained a mystery to, Gabriel but he didn't wish to know about that as asking such a question could make, Sapphire feel so much worse.
He thought about how lucky he has been. He had yet to know or feel loss. It was bad enough that he nearly lost his sister while she was under his watch that made him realize he cannot run from what he is but to know that everything that happened to, Sapphire could happen here on earth if he did not take a stand to do what he must if he was going to have a chance to fight against the Dark Master and all the monsters he had under his command.
"I am very sorry, Sapphire. I know what you have told me about it. There's nothing I can say to tell you how sorry I am for your loss." Gabriel apologized rubbing the side of the dragon some more.
The Dragon smiled slightly at, Gabriel. "It is well, Gabriel. You weren't there at the time there would have been nothing you could have even if you were. I have lost so much but I haven't lost everything."
"You haven't?" Gabriel inquired.
"Indeed, I have not. I have you, young one. You possess one of the crystals. That crystal among with the others is the hope for the future for both of us. If you can learn more of its use then we will stand a far better chance to avenge those that we lost and prevent what has happened to my world to fall over yours." The Dragon explained.
It did make some lick of sense to, Gabriel. Yes, the Dragon lost nearly everything he had known and loved but with what they had right now they could give justice to those that were lost and to those desired justice to be done. Perhaps that's exactly what the dragon he met in his dreams meant. He was the Knight of Justice. Someone who gives justice to those that needed it and to bring those of evil to the same term. After what had happened to, Sapphires world and his people and what had currently happened in, Gabriel's own he was ready to become the Knight of Justice. Though as given to him by his sister the frost knight was another good title to, Gabriel's amusement either way he was going to be what destiny had called forth for him to be.
After almost an hour of walking through the forest having traveled as least a few miles by, Gabriel's count they were starting to reach the edge of the woods.
"I have never been out this far before." Gabriel said out loud as he continued to ride on the back of the dragon still having yet to feel dragon or sore from sitting in such a position for so long. He rode the dragon without a saddle and that was usually a bad idea when it came to riding upon something but, Sapphire wad different he didn't walk aimlessly or tried to buck him off. He made sure the ride he was giving his young friend was as smooth and as steady as he could go.
"Oh, I beg the differ." The Dragon hummed quietly as some good memories came to his mind that cast away the thought of his lost home. He smiled as those memories were some of the fondest he had since the before the war that consumed his home world and took away everything that he held dear.
"What was that?" Gabriel asked thinking that he heard something come from the dragon, but he wasn't paying any attention earlier.
"Oh, nothing!" Sapphire chuckled as, Gabriel shrugged his shoulders unsure what he had heard earlier. "So, you haven't been out this far?" The Dragon asked changing the subject to get off the awkward topic that was starting to rise.
"No. I can't even remember when I was out of the city. I think it was a trip my mom took me and my sister on. But that was so long ago I only recall we went to a national park, but the rest was just a typical road trip. Not to say that wasn't fun. But I think I prefer riding you than being cramped in a car for hours." Gabriel admitted as kicked his legs a little glad to feel the air on his legs instead of hardly being able to move them in a car.
"I appreciate that, Gabriel. I am happy to know that my company is more satisfying to you. But don't ever shun anytime you spend with you family. Even if it has its own drawbacks. Enjoy the times you spend with those you love. For they can mean the world to you more than a simple trip outside the lands you know the most." Sapphire explained as the edge of the woods were drawing closer.
"I know that, Sapphire." Gabriel replied giving the dragons neck a nice stroke never getting enough the feel of his soft blue fur coat on him. "I love my very family very much and I cherish all times I spend with them."
"From what I saw from your valiant defense of your younger sister I believe that, Gabriel." Sapphire smiled as he knew he had a kind and loving heart. A heart of courage and a sense of justice to uphold the righteous and defend the innocent.
Recalling the fight with the monster that nearly took his sister made, Gabriel shudder fearfully. "If only I had listened to you earlier. My sister wouldn't have been in danger like that to begin with." He lamented still feeling guilty over how he nearly got his sister killed due to his denial of becoming the warrior he was destined.
"Do not blame yourself my, young friend." Sapphire assured as he the edge of the woods was upon them. "You were only afraid. Something I can't hold against you as you are young and with so much thrust upon you at once it would have been very surprising to see that you were anything else than that."
"That's comforting." Gabriel chuckled glad to know the dragon was expecting some good of him and even some bad of him. But he was not judging him, and he was thankful for that.
The Dragon finally reached the edge of the woods as he looked out to see nothing, but a great meadow laid out before them. He could see that there was nothing within the sight of his eyes. However, he needed to get a better look from above.
"Can you climb off my back, Gabriel?" The Dragon asked. "I need to fly up to look about at a great distance in the sky to make sure we are able to do your training without any unexpecting human eyes about."
Gabriel nodded and slid off the dragon who extended his right wing that let, Gabriel slide off of him in a second. The Moment when he got off the dragon, Sapphire walked into the meadow then spread his wings and with a mighty flap rose into the sky as graceful a regal bird. A Swan, Gabriel decided.
Sapphire after a few flaps of his long-feathered wings was hundreds of feet in the air as he could now see anything within a few miles. He could see more of the woods he and, Gabriel had stepped through. It went on for a great distance. He could see the city where Gabriel lives were so far in the distance the skyscrapers that were as tall as mountains looked to be a long journey away and the closest road that humans used was concealed on both sides by the forest that was around two miles away. And with the meadow being a large spot outside the woods with more of the forest surrounding it made a good place to train without anyone noticing. At least by an unwelcome human.
The Dragon looked in every direction to make sure there was nothing out there that could bother them while at the ground, Gabriel was walking around staying within the tree line to stretch out his legs. Even though he had plenty of space upon, Sapphire to keep his legs from cramping he still needed to get some feel in them after sitting for so long.
It was such a peaceful place that far from the woods he knew the most. He could see a small herd of deer in the meadow so far that even one spotted him and the dragon flying above their presence didn't bother them as they continued to eat at the ground and graze about.
It wasn't often to see such a sight. The young man smiled at the wonderous sight of the animals at graze. It was funny how Gabriel enjoyed venison sometimes when his mom bought a package of meat from the store to cook for dinner. But he could never be the one to hunt for the meat. A Twisted case of irony how he enjoyed the cooking of his mothers when it came to dinnertime involving venison but seeing the deer in their spot in the meadow made him regret that.
But with everything he regretted from his own likes and past mistakes, Gabriel understand some things about one's self cannot be entirely changed nor something to be ashamed about as what was told to him as people like him can make something better of themselves if they are willing to do so and on this day with someone he was now more than proud to call his friend he was happily willing to do just that.
He sat down by a tree that gave him a sight of the meadow in front of him putting his backpack down and took out some of the apples he brought with him for a snack. He started to bite down on the apple when the dragon came flying back down to him landing just a few feet from him.
"This meadow seems clear, Gabriel. We may start on your training." The Dragon said before noticing he was eating an apple. "But I guess its better you eat something to keep your energy up before we begin."
"Thank you, Sapphire." Gabriel smiled biting into his apple again as he grabbed three more apples from his back pack. "Would you like some too?"
The Dragon cocked his head in surprise as he didn't expect, Gabriel to bring him out something to eat as well.
"That's kind of you, Gabriel. I would be delighted." Sapphire smiled as, Gabriel threw the apples he brought out over to the dragon who leaned down and munched down on the apples. He took one bite of one apple to test the flavor. When his taste of one of them was satisfactory he opened his mouth wider and grabbed all three of the apples at once and chewed on them all at once.
Gabriel chuckled at the sight as he barely was at half his apple while the dragon ate his in a matter of two bites. "You certainly know how to push down a snack so quickly, Sapphire."
The Dragon smiled while licking his lips. "Well, my friend some of us have much larger mouths than humans." He laughed along with the young human.
"That is true!" Gabriel agreed as he continued to eat his apple as the Dragon sat on the long grass in the meadow waiting patiently for, Gabriel to finish his apple. After a few more minutes, Gabriel's apple was all about gone with only the core remaining as he tossed it behind him into the woods.
"Well then. Let's start your training, Gabriel." Sapphire insisted standing up and walked into the meadow behind him. "Bring your crystal with you!"
Gabriel grabbed his crystal from his backpack and headed over to the dragon. "Alright. I'm ready!"
"Very well. Let us start off with something simple. You have already seen that your able to transform into your armor which give you use of your power and weapons, am I right?" Sapphire inquired.
"Yes. Seems that is the only way to use it." Gabriel replied but this was objected by, Sapphire who shook his head.
"I have seen the warriors of old use their power. Their crystals did unlock their armor and abilities, but they could use a fraction of those abilities without conjuring up their armor." Sapphire explained.
"Really?" Gabriel inquired becoming intrigued.
"Yes. The Crystal you hold offers a great amount of power. To tap into the mass extension of that power would require you to conjure up your armor but the crystal still can be used at a fraction of its power for a small use." Sapphire continued to explain.
"Small use how?" Gabriel asked.
"Like for instance you have your sword when you transform into your armor, but you can bring up your sword with the use of your question without having to tap into the full amount of power in it. Why don't you try it?" Sapphire suggested.
Gabriel held the crystal in his hand and tried to focus. He shut his eyes and tried to think of his sword. He wanted to have his armor on him, but his mind was focused on the sword. Within a short flash that went across his closed eyes he felt something appear in his hand. He opened his eyes to see the sword that he used before was now gripped in his left hand to his surprise.
"Hey! I did it!" He beamed as, Sapphire smiled with him.
"Very good, Gabriel. Now let us focus now on combat. You were fortunate the other times but now its best you learn some basic forms and maneuvers. The Dark Master has many monsters at his disposal. Far more than the ones you have already seen. I personally fought a great deal of them and managed to live but one wrong assumption or a bad move could result in your demise. We cannot allow that to happen." Sapphire explained looking at, Gabriel closely as he was serious in his explanation.
Gabriel gripped his sword tight with two hands as he held it horizontally. Then he turned it vertically and waved it about to get a good feel for it as now without the armor it felt different in his bare hands. He knew he was about to take another big step into becoming a warrior of destiny, but he cannot turn back from it.
"I understand, Sapphire." He nodded.
"Then let us begin!" Sapphire hopped a short distance back giving, Gabriel some space. "Now let's begin with a starting battle. You against me! I won't cause any true harm, but we must build up your reflexes."
"Are you sure about this? I don't want to hurt you at all!" Gabriel nervously asked to attack the one who has helped and protected him for a good while now seemed to be the wrong thing to do by attacking him with a sharp weapon.
Sapphire grinned before shooting a breath of cold air that turned to a wave of ice that knocked, Gabriel onto his back. "I'm certain, young one! Now come! Attack!" He ordered as, Gabriel shivered for a moment before getting back on his feet and charged at the dragon.
Raising his sword high, Gabriel darted towards the dragon as, Sapphire reeled back then shot another ice blast at the teenager but this time, Gabriel jumped to his left to avoid it. But he got overconfident when he dodged that attack and just when was about to get to the dragon, Sapphire twirled swiping his tail right under, Gabriel's legs knocking him onto his back again.
Gabriel groaned as he hit his head hard upon the grass of the meadow. The Soft long flocks did little to soften the impact on the floor. Sapphire smiled slightly and looked down over him.
"Good dodge on my breath attack but you were so focused on trying to attack me that you left yourself open to be struck in another way. Always expect your enemies to come at you with more than one attack, Gabriel. Anything they have on them can be a weapon and not just by a sharp blade or a pointed spear. Anything on their person can be used against you." The Dragon explained offering his paw to help the young man back on is feet.
"Sorry about that." Gabriel apologized as he rubbed the back of his head.
"Don't be. That's why we are out here. We need to sharpen your skills. Bring out the warrior within you and to help keep yourself alive the next time we are to face more the Dark Master's minions." Sapphire said leaning over giving the young man a nuzzle on his cheek making him smile.
"You have a point there, Sapphire." Gabriel agreed. "Tell me more of what I need to do, please."
"Right now, we must work on your reflexes. You barely were able to notice what I was going to do to you when you dodged my breath attack. You need to be able to think quickly and act just as fast. If we wish to even stand against the likes of myself you will have to be able to dodge multiple strikes while maintaining and offense. You would need to be able to defend as well as attack. Don't focus on just one of those as that could lead to your downfall." Sapphire explained as he took a few steps back reading himself for another try. "Shall we try this again?"
Gabriel nodded and readied his sword. "Let's go!"
He charged at the Dragon again as once more he dodged the breath attack and kept a better eye on the dragon trying to watch for what move he was going to do next. He began to twirl, and he expected to be struck with the tail again and jumped up only to be met by a paw grabbing him and then pinned him on the ground.
"Another lesson is don't expect your enemies to always use the same moves so soon. Its good you anticipated it but always watch your opponent and every part he has upon him. Any part can be used to grab you or pin you and any of the like to even a lethal blow." The Dragon told the young man letting him go and once more helping him to his feet.
"I guess I really do have a lot to learn." Gabriel admitted seeing how this training was going to be tougher than he first thought as he picked up his sword from the ground having dropped it when he was grabbed.
Sapphire chuckled stepping back again. "Again, that is the purpose of training to help you stand a better chance and to learn what you can before we can find ourselves in another bout."
"I understand. I am ready!" He readied his sword as the Dragon readied himself and once again, Gabriel charged him. He stood a slightly better chance as he kept his visual on the dragon and all his limbs and tail. He managed to avoid being swiped a couple of times and even leapt over the dragon's tail when it tried to swipe his feet from under him but then he was met with a not so hard kick from the back legs of the dragon. Again, failing to watch the limbs.
But Gabriel back on his feet and tried again. He tried to land a blow on the dragon. They kept up the training routine for a time. Gabriel got better each time he was knocked down and though he was yet able to even land a blow on the dragon he was getting faster and that pleased, Sapphire as the teenager was being a good student in this as he had not raised a complaint and continued on with his training with him.
However, the young man and the dragon were so focused on their training that they failed to notice the spy in the trees nearby. A tiny shadow in the base of one of the trees. Small glowing yellow eyes watched them before turning away.
"Master will be pleased to hear about this." The Shadow demon hissed as it faded away to report on what he has discovered to the very one who he answered to who was just under the Dark Master Shadow demon that spied on the training duo of Gabriel and Sapphire snuck away in the distance deep within the forest before casting its dark arm to reveal a dark vortex. It leaped into it and just when it did the vortex vanished leaving no trace of it as if it was never there. Gabriel and Sapphire were so preoccupied with their training that they did not realize they had a spy in their midst as they kept up with their training without knowing they had an unwelcome guest watching from the edge of the forest.
{Next Scene: Unknown Realm}
The Vortex the Shadow Demon passed through had brought it to the once gleaming and prosperous angel kingdom that was, Sapphire's home. Now a dark and forbidding wasteland where any of the populace that survived the siege of it now toil away as slaves mining the fields and mountains for any resource that could be used. If there were any that were not in chains they were outcasts now in the realm was ruled over by the Dark Master.
It moved with haste as it went through the fields where the slaves were busy and working without rest till it is given to them mining away under threat of torment and death. The Castle that was now molded into a heinous image of what it once lay forth about the Shadow Demon. The Gates opened up for the shadow demon as he hurried inside.
Standing next to a fountain that once was pouring water from top to the bottom and had ceased since the siege ended in victory was a dark blue dragon snorting in frustration as it has been too long since he had given his master a report and if he did have anything new to say to him soon he would suffer his wraith.
"Master?" A low raspy voice said behind him. The Dragon growled looking behind him to see it was the shadow demon under his command.
"What is it?" He demanded.
"I have news! I have witnessed the angel dragon training the boy who holds one of the crystals." The Shadow Demon answered bowing lowly at the one who commanded him other than the one higher than he was.
"Good. This will please our master." The dark blue Dragon chuckled darkly. "Continue your spying and report on their activities. The more we know the easier the prize will be to claim."
"At once, Master!" The Shadow Demon confirmed bowing low one more time before turning around opening another vortex and leapt into it heading back to the realm of Earth.
The Dark Blue Dragon turned his gaze back to the lifeless fountain. "Soon enough the crystal will be ours and my Master will reign across every realm!" He cackled and then walked to the castle to inform his master of his minion's report.
{Meanwhile back to Human Realm}
Gabriel and Sapphire continued to train in the field just outside the forest. With Sword in hand, Gabriel kept on trying his best to try and land a blow on the Dragon. They had been at it for hours now. Every time Gabriel had failed in an attempt he kept on trying to the Dragons marvel. This is what would help him become the warrior he needed, Gabriel to be.
Again, and again, Gabriel came close to striking a blow against the dragon even though he was concerned about hurting him if he did. But Sapphire had him continue to try as he needed to work on his reflexes. The Young man would attempt to come at the dragon from one angle to another. He was learning to keep an eye on his opponent and every part of him.
At every angle, the Dragon would counter him with his legs and tail and even his body. Anything could stop an attack if one knew how to wait for the right moment and position themselves to counter. Another tactic that he wanted Gabriel to learn about. That its not always an actual weapon that could deal a solid blow or even death sometimes even by using one's own body could result in pinning an attacker or even going farther. Gabriel learned that the hard way when he finally was able to leap on, Sapphire's back only for him to roll and Gabriel made the mistake of holding on which caused him to get almost buried into the ground.
The Training was rather frustrating to Gabriel as they had been at it for so long and he had yet to land even a single blow on the Dragon. Though he was failing at that he was gaining quicker reflexes as the Dragon desired. He was becoming more resilient and focused. On the first many tries he simply charged him without paying attention, now he was coming at him with clearer mind. He did not leave himself easily open to be countered like the first few tries he would watch the Dragon to make the first move then dodge and try to attack him.
Gabriel though he was becoming upset that the training was going on with him failing the most important part of the training he kept at it for he understood of the danger that lied ahead. He had to develop the skill he would need as the Darkness would soon come. There was no telling when another monster would appear in the city or if someone was in danger by it. He had to build up the skills he would need to fight against them. He was fortunate the first few times, but luck could easily run out if he was not going to be properly prepared for it.
Time continued to move forward as he kept either knocked down or pinned after a few successful dodges and parries against, Sapphire. The Dragons time as a warrior that had lived for centuries and been through more than his share of warfare across two different realms certainly gave him enough experience to know how to handle himself and be an excellent trainer.
Gabriel would not give up. He was upset that he was failing to land a blow, but the Dragon gave him assurance as they continued their lesson. He was being complimented on what he was doing right and a small lecture of what he was doing wrong that could have resulted in him being seriously hurt or even killed due to the wrong move he made.
Sapphire tried to make it simple for Gabriel. He was going at him with nearly full force but that would be the best way to train him at this point. He had to ready Gabriel for what lies ahead. He understood that Gabriel was still quite young and had much to experience but with the Dark Master lurking about and could send more of his monsters and demons down on Earth at any given time it was best to get, Gabriel up to speed on his training as fast as possible.
The training was starting to progress quite well after another hour had passed. Gabriel was now starting to evade multiple blows at once. From dodging or rolling out of the way from one strike to using his sword to parry from another angle making sure to keep his eye on his opponent. He was becoming clever in his tactics. From figuring out where he could strike where nothing could block him even though the Dragon was a lot faster to move before the blow could be delivered and, Gabriel started to dive or roll under the Dragon's underside to try in strike him there. Again, the Dragon would move away before the strike was blown but it still impressed, Sapphire that Gabriel was paying good attention to the lessons he was being given.
"You're getting better, Gabriel." Sapphire smiled having pinned, Gabriel once again under his back paw when he managed to avoid the attacks with his two front paws and dived under him but before he could raise the sword, Sapphire stomped on it pinning it to the ground then used his back right paw to pin, Gabriel.
Gabriel panted heavily as he had been going at this for so long now that he didn't know how much more he had left in him. He laid defeated on the ground under the dragon's paw having not heard what, Sapphire had said.
"Oh, I cannot believe I can't do it!" He grumbled. Sapphire stepped off his friend and the sword standing at, Gabriel's side who still was laying on the ground sweating profusely.
"Gabriel looks at me," Sapphire demanded calmly as the young man sat up slowly groaning as not only was he tired but he was very sore from the training having been toppled and tossed around like a simple toy and having been stepped on so much that he now had a vague understanding of what it was like to be an insect even if when he was pinned, Sapphire didn't press down too hard to harm him.
Sapphire sat on his back legs sitting upright while looking down at, Gabriel giving him a soft smile. "Gabriel you may have failed at the task of trying to strike me with your sword but think of what you have done during our training. Did you not notice how you were becoming better in your reflexes?" He pointed out.
Gabriel thought for a moment. When they first started he barely had been able to even get a look at what was about to hit him before it happened. Now in the past hour if not a little more he was dodging multiple blows and strikes from paws to, Sapphire's tail and much else before either getting pinned or knocked back.
"Perhaps I did but what good is it if I didn't do the one thing you asked of me?" Gabriel asked feeling a little better but still felt ashamed he didn't do the main task at hand.
"That is the point, Gabriel!" The Dragon chuckled. "We are out here training to increase and work on your skills. What I appointed you to do helped work on your body. Your reflexes are better. You have to start to realize how to focus your mind in the midst of battle. A Simple goal has helped you gain a lot more than you realize. Do you understand?"
Gabriel took a few deep breaths and wiped the sweat pouring from his brow. He thought again and realized that, Sapphire was right. He may have failed at one simple task but in that work to try and fulfill it he had gained better skill from working on it. How could he have not realized it?
He looked down and shook his head. "I'm a fool!"
Sapphire crawled over and laid by Gabriel's side. "No, you're not. Your enlightened. Your still quite young and have much to experience. I am glad we are out here to work on your talents. You have great potential, Gabriel. I believe your worthy of the crystal you hold." The Dragon grinned as he meant every word.
Gabriel reached over and picked up the sword holding it vertically. It was a magnificent blade. It looked to be freshly crafted and just out from the blacksmith and yet it was conjured up by magic. If he desired so it would disappear as if it never was there. It was incredible to look at. He never had time before to realize what a fabulous sword he had.
The Sword felt nearly light as a feather and it cut through the monsters he had faced like a knife through warm butter. It still concerned him that he almost harmed his friend with it even if he had practically ordered him to strike him with it. But he did what was asked of him and he succeeded in doing something more than what he had intended to do.
"Why don't you put your weapon away and relax. I think we both earned a time of relief." Sapphire gestured as he shimmed behind the young man.
Closing his eyes Gabriel focused on what he wanted down and within a second in a small flash that didn't blind him due to his eyes being shut his sword was gone from his hand having faded away. He pulled out his crystal as it glowed lightly before going dim.
He put his crystal back in his pocket and leaned back not realizing that Sapphire was right behind him. He flinched but the Dragon nuzzled him. "Go ahead and relax." He gestured as Gabriel leaned back again laying upon the soft fur of the dragon. He was far more comfortable than any pillow he ever had.
Gabriel felt like he was ready to take a nap with training having exhausted him greatly but before he could comfortable he heard a ringing noise. "Uhh." He groaned. "Every time I get comfortable!" He quickly got to his feet and ran over to his backpack knowing exactly what that ringing was.
Throwing open his tiny sack he moved through all the things he had brought with him and pulled out a cell phone that was ringing loudly. He looked on the front to see the word 'Home' appear on it. He pressed the receive button and answered the call.
"Hello?" He answered.
"Yes?" He responded.
"Oh, just out for a run in the woods." He explained. "On my way back now! See you soon." He pressed another button that ended
the call.
Gabriel then looked at the dragon. "I got to get home. Mom will be back soon and long before that I should make myself and my sister some lunch since that is what she called about."
Sapphire nodded in understanding. "Let's get you home then. We shall continue this tomorrow perhaps?"
"Yes!" Gabriel agreed to pick up his backpack. "I'll come back as soon as I have returned from school."
"Very well." Sapphire stood up and walked over to the young man kneeling down. "Climb on ill get you back faster."
"Thanks!" Gabriel climbed on the dragon and as soon as he was mounted, Sapphire took off into the woods a lot faster than when they came the first time to get, Gabriel home as he held on tight to his back enjoying the ride once again as the Dragon carried him back to the woods almost running on his four paws as Gabriel smiled widely as riding the dragon was the best time he had.
つづく... {To Be Continued...}
[Update: Greeting everyone! I'm back and action once again, Sorry for keeping you waiting for so long, I've got a new job last the end of June in Summer and also I sign up for the Fandom wiki and create my very own wiki for Crystal Heroes. If you guys want to go check it out be my guest. Stay Safe]
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Detail idea/Edited/Author/Writer: ME
Co:Writer: Jazz316
Artwork BookCover and Logo design: Qbayson and NuryRush
