Disclaimer: RedDragonX does not own, will never own, though he wishes on occasion he really did own: Spyro the Dragon. All characters relating to or known to take part in the video game series are the property (unfortunately), of Activision. I do, however, own all characters of my own creation and any other asinine conceptions I might concoct within the insane asylum that is sometimes my imagination.

Chapter 1:

Newcomer

Lights beyond count began spinning to life. This fabrication was beyond any prevalent technology. It was truly difficult to fathom something as intricate and mind bending as time flow. It was as if reality no longer factored and the realm of impossibility had replaced it.

"Are you serious? Time travel? I didn't even think it was beyond the preliminary stages of development." stated Razeth with orbs as wide as saucers. Xalanth and Perrath both wore small smirks, the graphite drake slowly circling the canister which contained the one known only as Arus.

"After such significant advances within the field of soul crystals it was really only a matter of time, but yes, it wasn't such an immense focus up until the last year or so. Once we realized the reality of what was happening we had no choice but to pour all available resources into research."

Perrath nodded in agreement, tail wavering slowly as her eyes remained fixated upon the seemingly unconscious drake within the tube. This was something which required the bulk of her energies for the past half-year.

"The best minds in the world were gathered here at the capital to help realize our goal. The answers eluded us for some time, but now, I've finally had the breakthrough we so desperately needed." She spoke softly, almost in a hushed whisper.

Razeth tilted her head somewhat and let her wings stretch before addressing Xalanth. "Legate, you really believe you can send one backwards in time?"

For the first time since she met him last night, his eyes sparked in amusement. "Oh, believe me Optio, I don't believe, I know it can work."

She raised an eyeridge before her gaze fell upon the capsule, moving closer to inspect in greater detail. "Is he … really a volunteer?"

Perrath looked away from investigating various bio readings. "He is indeed specialized for this type of situation-"

Xalanth gave a loud grunt, clearly intended for interruption. "Subject Arus is quite capable I can assure you, and we have his full blessing to proceed in whatever manner we see fit."

Razeth just stared at the drake before them quizzically. The innate urge to reach out and touch him nearly took over as her claw lightly tapped the glass. A loud buzz and small shock was her reward.

|-PERIMETER WARNING-CAPSULE RESTRICTED-|

"Jeez, is that really necessary? Not like he's going anywhere." She growled angrily before the machine launched another jolt into her scales.

|-FINAL NOTICE-SECURITY OUTPUT HEIGHTENED 50 PERCENT-|

"ALRIGHT! My Draco is she an uptight bitch ..."

Perrath broke out into a small laugh while Xalanth simply shook his head in some vague manner of disappointment.

"Yeah, I've been told several times to adjust her attitude … but she knows how to have fun every now and then." stated the cyan draken with another smirk before Xalanth coughed loudly.

"I've simply come to accept you enjoy torturing everyone here Perrath." he replied with a lighter expression before turning his attention back towards the video screen.

Razeth had forgotten that the Consul was still watching them; facts being lost easily in all the excitement. Xalanth was acting quite different from before. Was this the same Legate she was verbally sparring with earlier? Whatever connections he shared with Perrath, it influenced him immensely.

"Consul, you have provided us with all that is required for the operation to proceed. All that is left at this point is verbal confirmation." stated Xalanth.

Both Raz and Perrath remained quiet, letting the situation play itself out. The silence was broken by a small groan spilling out of Arus. Xalanth took note of the movement and stared silently at Perrath, who once more received the message and proceeded to toy with one of the dials at her station.

Moments later, the frame of Arus relaxed and returned to a more powerless state. Razeth observed and remained motionless, making mental notes of all occurrences.

|-SEDATION LEVELS-INCREASED 25 PERCENT-SUBJECT STABLE-|

The Consul made no visual movements on the screen, but his words pierced the chamber. "So long as you keep the asset undamaged and under firm control, I fully grant my blessing to initiate the beginning phases of Operation: TimeCrisis. I will expect a full report within the first twenty four hours Legate."

Razeth narrowed her eye eyes slightly upon noticing his silhouette turn in her direction subtly.

"Also, ensure that our guest from Consul Marcus receives all mutual benefits and proper treatment. It is of the utmost importance to maintain clear and transparent communication between ourselves. For the good of the Empire."

She attempted to make no visual contact or movements, but couldn't help herself from gazing straight back at the monitor with a half-smirk. No further interactions were made between the two.

"Now, you have your confirmation. You may proceed."

Xalanth nodded and then trotted around the circular canister, Perrath finishing several more adjustments as he came alongside her, bronze orbs focusing down. Razeth noticed the monitor bearing the Consul readjust upwards and slightly out of the way, but the com-link remained active.

"Very well, Perrath, let us proceed with initialization and briefing." commanded Xalanth.

She nodded and brought one of her wing knuckles upwards to fiddle with one of the knobs, her claws being occupied with others.

"Yes Xalanth. Proceeding with cellular adjustments now."

The canister hummed and released more steam from below, several instruments descended downward and circling the drake contained within. Razeth took the opportunity to move closer, but remembered the hostile response she received before and thus remained cautious. She really wanted to get a better look at this Arus.

The drake was obviously being drugged and her best guess was that this wasn't the first time he was used in such a manner. Her orbs investigated the strange markings on his scales, but were interrupted when two mechanical contraptions descended upon each side of his skull. This sort of treatment was beginning to make slavery look preferable.

The two devices began to spin rapidly, moving closer to the drake's temples before starting to slide against his scales directly, causing Arus to flinch in unwilling discomfort. She took the opportunity to get a quick glimpse of his eyes, which had sprung open for but a fraction of a second. He appeared strong and fit, and the sight of several naturally received scars upon his wing membrane and neck gave an image of savageness.

"Quite a sight, isn't he?" said Perrath.

Razeth didn't let her eyes leave him, only nodding in response before shaking her snout. "I suppose that's one way of looking at it, but I pity him at this point."

Xalanth gazed at her before feeling a slight nudge from Perrath, making him grunt before stepping towards Razeth.

"Arus is one of the most valuable assets available to us. As you can tell, he has been a veteran of multiple operations, many of a critical nature."

Razeth turned her head halfway towards him before releasing a small snort, her claws clicking. "By choice? Or no?"

Xalanth made no reply as Perrath's orbs made a rare diversion from the console. The Optio knew she had hit a soft spot.

"So … is he part of the Avocoti then?" she asked while motioning towards one of the silent enforcers above them.

The Legate gazed up as well before shrugging slightly, now standing right beside Razeth. "No, Arus has received no genetic or physical alterations of any kind, save the neuron inhibitor."

"I see," replied Razeth, "So you're using mind control and memory applications to control him. Why not just make him Avocati and be done with it?"

Xalanth chuckled, his tail curling roughly and wings twitching. "Arus is far more valuable then such drones. The power he has the capability of wielding makes them look like scrap metal. We wouldn't risk potentially damaging his abilities or psychological stability with such a procedure."

Razeth just hissed and rolled her honey eyes. "Yeah, because his life is so much more thrilling this way."

Xalanth growled somewhat, causing Perrath to shudder. An unfamiliar laugh echoed forth as the Consul interjected in amusement.

"I must say Legate, you have your work cut out for you. At least you will be thoroughly entertained."

Xalanth recovered and watched as the instruments pinned against Arus's skull once again, spinning more rapidly then before, the shadowy drake's limbs being fully controlled and regulated by strong metallic bonds.

Razeth said, "Well I don't think-"

"You are not here to think, Optio, you are here to observe. I will be sure to notify you if I ever have need of your thoughts!" Xalanth barked, causing the draken to stiffen to attention by instinct.

Perrath shook her head and sighed before returning to he panel, several of the readings alerting her. "Xalanth, he's ready to receive inputs and parameters."

The Legate moved back towards the control console, his gaze falling to Perrath's claws. "Very well, set condition 605."

Perrath gave him a slight side look before nodding, inputting the command into the proper fields before lifting her snout. "Condition set, subject is programmed for purpose."

Razeth finally looked away from the canister and towards Perrath, her tail swinging as she moved closer. Xalanth eyed her and understood her curiosities to a point. How was he going to make this work? If he didn't keep her informed to a large degree, she would immediately grow suspicious and possibly inform Marcus. Yet, he did not want her to know everything.

"Condition 605, Optio, ensures that Arus retains all of his professional skills and operational knowledge while in the field. We had to make some alterations thanks to the rigors of time displacement, but I have full confidence in our adjustments." stated Xalanth while glimpsing towards Perrath, the draken offering a grateful smile in return.

Raz turned back towards Arus, watching as the devices ceased spinning and rotated upwards and away, eyes shifting beneath his twitching lids. The vents beneath his frame started to fold back to reveal a pulsing glow, the same beginning to occur above him.

The glow was giving off a peculiar feeling of comfort as Perrath continued her operations, the metal sheath which surrounded the canister pealing away even further, putting the fuel source on full display.

Any dragon would be influenced by the comforting aura surrounding them. It was natural for all dragons to be drawn to these crystals, as they were seemingly connected to one another by the virtues of nature. Dragons could draw upon several key properties from a crystal depending on what type it was.

Much like each dragon had a different element gifted to them upon birth, the crystals had a singular property which defined them. Red crystals were known world wide for their immense life giving and replenishing powers. A dragon could be at the doorstep of death itself, but if proper treatment and application of life crystals was applied, they would be miraculously rejuvenated.

Green crystals were very much the same in terms of what they could do, but instead of health, they restored a dragons stamina or mana pools. They were quite popular with heavy magic practices and engineering schools, as they served as a very sufficient power source on top of their typical applications.

These crystals, however, were slightly different then those. Blue crystals were exceedingly rare in the Empire. Supposedly, upon a time, they were more abundant, but now they were so rare that the Senate often confiscated any source that was discovered. Officially, they were known as soul crystals.

Razeth wasn't an expert on crystals or their full applications, she understood but the basics. Red and green crystals were pretty common amongst members of the legion, as any battlefield wound would be treated with them. Blue, however, was reserved mostly for engineers and other infrastructure experts. Either way, their presence always stirred something deep within a dragon's being. She could understand why the Consul was extra touchy about allowing their usage.

The bottom and top portions of the canister were completely filled with spirit crystals. The bluish, pulsing auras of which were starting to intensify. The metal cords around Arus started to tighten and realign themselves in a manner that displayed more of his features while also securing him firmly. A heavy metal ring was around his neck, keeping him immobilized at the sake of comfort.

"These spirit crystals should be more then sufficient Perrath, do you agree?" asked Xalanth.

The draken tapped one of the meters which seemed to serve as a power gauge before nodding, removing herself from the console and walking towards the opposite side of the canister.

"Yes Xalanth. I truly hope that the resources were not diverted away from anything of a importance." she responded.

"Depends on what you truly think is important. I believe this situation holds precedence. How long can you make them last?" asked the Legate.

She shrugged somewhat before reaching for a pair of goggles obviously designed to serve as protection for the procedure.

"I would say upwards of a year if handled properly, the real challenge will be just how much energy is required for the initial transport."

Xalanth took a deep breath, seemingly a tad disappointed. "Well, with your … skills … I think we can establish a more efficient timetable in there if need be."

Razeth followed after Perrath, being sure to stay out of the way before her curiosity simply got the better of her.

"So … he will be completely, physically transported to a different time period?" she queried.

Perrath looked up from another screen and gave a knowing gaze towards the crystals. "In a manner of speaking yes, the crystals will allow his mind and body to project itself back in time. Of course, the crystals will also make sure that his essence remains rooted in our period. Through this connection, we can monitor and observe his progress. Think of it as a tether of sorts. He will be as real as any dragon to them in the physical sense."

Xalanth continued, "These crystals have seen many advancements when it comes to our communication and information networks. The shortage is starting to drastically affect them at this point, so it's important we take full advantage of our limited supply. The moment the process is initiated, those crystals will begin to drain. Perrath can help maintain them for longer perhaps, but we will not be taking any chances."

Razeth could only nod before the Consul once more interjected.

"This supply was diverted away from being applied to further stabilize our communication grid, specifically in the labor camps. I have ordered the Avocati to take full control over all workforce management. This will allow us to focus on more pressing matters without having to worry about an information breakdown."

Both Perrath and Razeth seemed slightly taken aback at this. Razeth was use to seeing the Robes bully and outright murder as they saw fit, but it wasn't something Perrath enjoyed being aware of. Giving them even more power just meant more brutality, and that would only serve as a double edged sword.

Raz doubted they really cared at this point. It was obvious the focus was entirely geared towards finding a way to survive the upcoming crisis. What about after that? Even if they found a way to get the resources they wanted the issues plaguing the Empire were increasingly dire.

"Are we ready, Legate?" asked Kalog.

Xalanth closed his eyes and took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself and then gave a firm nod.

"That we are Consul, as ready as we'll ever be."

"Good, initiate the procedure."

Xalanth placed his wing knuckle on Perrath's shoulder. The draken took a steadying breath, sweat starting to break against her temple before she proceeded to the final console; two large touch panels ready for input. The humming was growing more intense and the crystals were shinning brightly. Perrath exhaled and then placed one of her paws upon the siphon.

Razeth stood beside Xalanth, the top of her head only slightly reaching his chest plate. The soul crystals were engulfed in circular orbs, both which being located above and below Arus. Once they were contained, the orbs started to spin rapidly, the humming growing even more intense as bright light started building.

The cyan draken stated, "If you would please, Xalanth … Razeth, don the eye protection provided."

Both dragons gazed at a pedestal nearby and quickly took up the goggles, Razeth strapping them on while Xalanth simply held them in place. Perrath watched the apparatus operate, seemingly waiting for just the right moment.

"Now, I have prepared my calculations to the best of my ability. Using the resources provided and information given, I will now initiate the relocation. Cross your claws! Here goes nothing!"

The heat in the room intensified and the humming was so loud it was painful to even think. The light within the canister seemed to reach a fever pitch. Even the Avocati seemed to be drawn into such an intense spectacle.

Perrath grunted and lowered her opposite paw, hesitating for but a moment before pressing it against the neighboring panel. A loud shrill echoed throughout the chamber, the crystals spheres now moving so fast they were nothing but an azure blur.

Razeth took a step backwards as the light only grew more intense. Two beams of pure soul energy descended from above and below Arus. Just before they struck, the mechanical restraints keeping him in place were released.

Xalanth grimaced and held his breath, eyes wide as the energy beams collided right on the shadow colored drake's position. The resulting explosion of light and energy caused the floor to shake, both Razeth and Xalanth covering their eyes with the protective membrane of their wings. The only thing Raz swore she could make out was the sound of Perrath screaming.

The inside of the canister was fully enveloped in light as the procedure reached an obvious climax. A loud sound that could only be described as a miniature sonic boom broke loose. The resulting shock wave nearly forced Razeth off her paws, one of the nearby computer screens imploding and releasing heated sparks.

The light suddenly died down and the humming grew weaker. Instead of a constant reverberation it had settled into a more pulsing rhythm. Razeth removed the protective membrane from her eyesight, Xalanth having already done the same. Thankfully, the room itself had no visible windows, otherwise they all very well might have been shattered.

Her attention did not immediately fall upon the canister, but instead on Perrath. She was visibly shuddering and her body was nearly draped upon the screen she had been operating. The glistening sheen upon her cyan white scales was caused by a heavy sweat.

Razeth quickly made her way across the floor, reaching Perrath's position and resting one paw on her back. She was breathing like a freight train. There might have been a little bit more to the procedure then met the eye. Crystals were powerful sure, but sending something back in time had to take a more drastic toll then as was normal.

"Perrath! Perrath are you alright!?" asked Razeth firmly but with obvious sympathy. The draken didn't respond to her, the only motions being made were the result of heavy breathing accompanied by slightly raspy grunts.

"Perrath! Report." boomed Xalanth, removing the protective goggles.

Razz turned her attention towards the graphite drake with slight resentment, easily following victim to her own conflicted emotions.

"Look at her! Does she look ready to report anythi-!"

"Successful … trans …. transfer … Xalanth … " muttered Perrath, her body slowly starting to recover as her snout rose upwards with straining effort. The sweat was practically dripping from her membrane and scales, Razeth gazing down to notice that her paws were still firmly embedded against the panels, both of which were pulsing calmly.

The large drake gazed down at Perrath for several moments before turning his attention towards the now peaceful canister. Razeth growled to herself, removing her paw from Perrath's back and following his gaze.

The light was still bright, but it had settled to a point. The pulsing rhythm had continued, seemingly emanating from the soul crystals which were linked by a solid blue beam of energy. Where Arus had once been, was nothing but circular orb of life force. Everything seemed stable compared to what had just occurred.

Both Xalanth and Razeth investigated further, the draken still being slightly annoyed at the Legate's rather uncaring nature. Sure he treated Perrath differently, even in a loving way, but to brush her condition aside so quickly didn't sit right with her.

"Quite an amazing spectacle Legate, you are to be commended."

Xalanth turned his head towards the viewing monitor, once more remembering the Consul was still observing. Raz didn't register him, her eyes still drifting back and forth between the seemingly empty canister and Perrath's weakened frame.

"Thank you Consul, but the question still remains, did he reach his destination?"

Perrath's eyes perked upwards, paws still connected with the machine, her mind still adrift. Xalanth turned his attention towards her, moving with what seemed like urgency and excitement. "Perrath?"

She took a deep breath before making eye contact with Razeth, offering her only a small smile of thanks before addressing the Legate.

"I … I do believe we were successful, but I will not be able to get a full bearing on the situation until I've recovered."

Xalanth stared at her, annoyance on his face which quickly gave way to a sigh. "Very well, I trust you won't take long."

Razeth couldn't help but snarl, stepping between the drake and Perrath. "After all that, seriously? That's all you're going to say?"

Xalanth didn't seem to register the statement, simply returning his gaze towards the Consul's image on the viewing screen.

"You will have a full report soon Kalog. The operation has gone as expected thus far and I expect nothing but optimal results from this point forward."

The Consul seemingly nodded. "Very well Xalanth. I will leave this operation in your capable hands for now. Please ensure that a full report is made to my office by tomorrow's end."

Razeth held back a slight sneer as the Consul again turned towards her. "I trust you know how to handle this as well, until next time, Hail Praxus."

Xalanth motioned with his arm, Razeth painfully doing the same moments later to avoid incident. "Hail Praxus." they spoke together.

The monitor filled with static and the connection was broken. Xalanth released a deep exhale before turning towards Razeth, his eyes filled with anger.

"You forget yourself Optio, that will be the last time you will speak out without proper authorization. The next time you do, I swear I will have your wings sliced from their joints and what is left of you sent to the foundries."

Razeth felt a bead of sweat drip from her neck, only forcing an image of compliance as Xalanth moved straight at her, forcing her to sidestep to avoid being trampled. She watched as he made his way towards Perrath, his large frame hiding her from view, but she could tell he was comforting her in whatever manner he knew best.

Her snout lowered some. She was doing a very bad job of "blending with the background". She always had a bad habit of jumping to conclusions and speaking her mind. Honestly, she was rather surprised she hadn't been dragged off for some manner of re-education at this point.

"Forgive me, Legate. I spoke only out of concern."

Xalanth half turned, one of his eyes finding hers before nodding. "I know, I worry about her too, but it was necessary to maintain face with the Consul."

Perrath's voice seemed far away thanks to the thick bodice of Xalanth covering her, the large drake moving aside slightly, one of his paws resting on her shoulder.

Razeth saw Perrath's gentle gaze, a small smile being directed towards her. She couldn't help but return one of her own while carefully moving towards the pair. She really had acted in haste. Once she stood beside them, her gaze settled back towards the glowing canister.

"So then, where do you think he is?"

Countless gems of brightness flickered across the sky, two moons glistening and basking within the eternal chorus of beauty and tranquility. The evening winds were just starting to die off, signaling the arrival of soothing darkness. High above, the constellation of a dragon flashed out for all to see. It was a sight that was becoming far too familiar to this particular drake.

Violet orbs explored the vast expanse for some time, unable to truly comprehend the meaning of eternity at this point. The world was different, and yet still the same. Years had passed since that fateful war with Malefor, the Dark Master. Years had passed since he and his closest partner, the mistress of shadow Cynder, saved the world and restored balance to the realms. It seemed like so long ago, and yet, he was reliving the experiences every day.

Not that there hadn't been some manner of "excitement" or danger in this new world. Just because Malefor was gone didn't mean all was eternally going to be peaceful. The world changed drastically, and the species upon it along with it. Nothing was ever going to be perfect, and so, their struggle would always continue.

Regardless, he did come to miss the adventures. The pure adrenaline and thrill that came with a fight. The idea of taking on waves of Orcs and Grublins again. A showdown with a massive Golem from ages past within the burning core of Warfang. His best friends standing beside him against the greatest evil they had ever known.

His snout slowly turned, neck stretching as he let one eye settle back towards a large bowl within a grand chamber. It was there she rested. It had all been worth it to save her. Was it really the world he was so focused on during that particular moment? All had seemed lost to the ages. When the light overtook him and his powers grew to their height, only to have his mind drift away into a vast expanse of nothingness, those three words echoed through his soul.

I love you...

"Cynder … " he whispered softly.

Perhaps she had heard him, as her frame slowly adjusted within the bowl, yet her eyes remained closed, an image of content about her features.

He smiled again before returning his attention to the world beyond. He was standing on a stone balcony which overlooked the vast Temple grounds. Things had changed quite a bit. The old Temple had been completely obliterated during the planets' resurrection, along with most of Warfang.

Ten years it had been, ten years of peace and relative stability. He was already twenty six at this point, but he knew it was but a drop of water in the river that was a dragons' life. They had already experienced so much, what more could there be to see? Granted, the world they had created was outputting its fair share of issues, mostly of a political nature. The Guardians had taken up roles as advisers and diplomats to help compensate.

Something had to be done to re-organize a chaotic landscape. When he and Cynder returned from some much earned time off, they found themselves thrust right back into the forefront of change.

While the Guardians would always do what they could to help the world and guide it, they knew that this new Age of the planet required fresh perspectives. Terrador greatly insisted he and Cynder become more active in the development of new societies and ideals.

After all, they had created this world, it was only right they lead it in some manner. That of course, came with all sorts of issues he never truly wished upon himself. Being a purple dragon definitely had advantages, everybody knew that, but it was not an easy life.

Within the first few weeks of being back, he and Cynder were both pushed to the brink by various hostilities between both new and old species. Due to all the continental changes, migrations had become very common. Species they never knew about began appearing, all in search of a new life.

The Lions were the first to arrive. A very proud and stubborn race indeed. They immediately came into conflict with the more peaceful and free minded Cheetahs. Spyro couldn't help but smile to himself. One of his best friends was heavily involved with the matter, and that made it all the more difficult to navigate.

In the end, a tentative agreement was reached by both sides, but mostly because neither truly wanted another war at this point and time. Either way, the Lion Prides would play a far greater role in the balance of power, this was obvious.

Then came the Wolf Packs. From the north they descended upon unsuspecting Mole colonies, pillaging anything that got in their way and carrying away the spoils to the darkened northern forests. Direct contact with them was not common, as they made a living being unreliable and unpredictable.

Of course, the Apes still resided in many parts of the world as well, though most crawled back into the dense forests and mountains after Gaul's defeat at his paws. The curse Malefor had placed upon them reverted upon his downfall, but the wounds still ran fresh and deep. Encounters with them were also rare, though the occasional raid took place every now and then.

Spyro sighed softly and leaned against the stone railing before him. Politics was never something he enjoyed, being much more action oriented at heart. These other species were the least of their concerns at this point and time.

Due to the numerous differences and moments of friction, it was decided by Spyro, the Guardians and some others to form a reactionary organization to help stabilize the world.

Thus, the Avalar Alliance was established. Obviously, the Guardians made up the bulk of the foundation, but it was not formed to simply be a platform servicing their own benefits. No, balance was required.

A ruling Council was also assembled in order to maintain proper relationships. At this point, Terrador, Cyril, Volteer and Spyro himself all served in positions. The Cheetahs and Moles were quick to support their efforts, thus forming the first coalition in what was dubbed: The New Age.

Hunter was elected to serve as the Cheetah representative, his connections with Spyro and the other dragons serving as more then a reasonable springboard.

Next was Sampson, a rather brilliant Mole engineer who had assisted in the defense of Warfang during Malefor's mad rush for power. While rather typical of his species, shy and nervous, he was exceptionally gifted with political wisdom and a sharp tongue. It didn't hurt that he also helped design and rebuild the Temple.

After that, well, things got a tad more complex. The wind picked up again, causing him to expand his wings a bit, letting the powerful breeze slide against his scales and membrane.

"Mmmm … that always hits the spot …"

His friend and brother by bond, Sparx, was also part of the Council, though his presence was very rarely needed. All creatures of the world deserved some manner of representation, at least if they were willing to be represented. Sparx may not be the wisest of all dragonflies, but he was typically fast to make friends and formed bonds with many various creatures of the forests. Thus, it was decided that he'd serve as a voice for them if the need ever arose.

"You should be resting." came a familiar voice from his rear.

Spyro turned his head slowly to see his mate had risen, her jade eyes deep and concerned. She had certainly grown over these last few years, as he had. Every day that passed she was more the image of the "terrifying" creature he had battled viciously within the depths of Convexity, but of course, lacked the psychotic murdering aspect she was known for at that time.

"I didn't want to disturb you, but I was taken by other thoughts." responded Spyro with a light droop in his snout, dark rings evident around his eyes. Cynder moved closer to her mate, gazing down and then nudging her wing against his own softly, her neck arching downwards to eye level with him.

"You're exhausted Spyro, have you been having dreams again?" she asked with concern.

The purple drake sighed softly before releasing a small laugh, his snout rising to meet hers for but the briefest of moments. "I can't sneak anything past you can I?"

"You've never been able to."

"Fair enough," he chuckled, "They have been coming more frequently, it's the strangest thing. The last time they were this intense was …"

"During the War." she finished for him.

"Yeah, I never thought they'd be this aggressive again." he spoke in a hushed tone, his gaze turning back towards the moons above. Cynder flanked him, her tail lightly brushing against his own, causing a soft exhale to release from his throat.

"Will our fight ever truly be over? I know that Malefor is gone, but I can't help but shake the feeling that something else is stirring beneath the surface. Tell me I'm just being paranoid will you?"

She chuckled and let her flank press against his own. "I wouldn't stress to much about it. It's one of the things I have come to embrace about you, though you could do better at masking your intentions sometimes."

Spyro laughed in response, letting his left wing drape over her frame softly. "Yeah, I know, I still haven't quite got the hang of the political arena, but that's what I have you for."

She could only smirk to herself, arching her neck in such a way that it made her appear larger then him for once. "Oh yes, cloak and dagger has always been one of my strong points, perhaps I should start with Crastor … or maybe Iolaus. Now that Sparx isn't around to annoy me anymore-"

"Come now Cynder, you already know how much they adore you, that would not be reassuring to the Guardians. Poor Volteer would finally have a stroke."

"I don't think he would need my help for that," She shook her head, basking in the comfort she could only find with him. "Still, in all seriousness, it troubles me that they have been so hard headed about matters involving myself."

Spyro gazed at her with a sense of knowing and sadness. "I know, I've talked to them extensively about the subject. Volteer certainly has no qualms with it, but Cyril and Terrador are another matter entirely."

Cynder snorted and pulled away from him, clearly irritated by the subject at hand. "It's as if I never existed at all. The history books will read so much better if it was just Spyro who restored the world to order. Who would ever want to remember Cynder, the ebony beast who ripped flesh from bone for the sake of blood lust!"

Spyro mentally berated himself for letting the issue come forth, but it wasn't like it was a massive secret. They would have to talk about it at some point, putting it off almost always made it worse.

"It's not that at all Cynder, not when it comes to the Guardians. They all trust you with their lives, but they are not the issue and you know it." he responded firmly.

Cynder turned on him, still clearly irritated, but his violet orbs immediately caused her anger to melt away, though disappointment lingered. "I … I know Spyro. I'm sorry. It's just … I wasn't ready to throw myself right back into things like this. The murderer … the soulless terror-"

"Cynder," Spyro whispered softly, his snout finding hers' before rubbing his neck along her own, warm chest plates pressing against his mate. "We have to be strong. As much as I wish we could have remained in retirement for the rest of our years, the fact remains that we are here now. This world needs us as much as we need it. We can only do the best we can for each other and those we care about."

Cynder sighed and melted to the embrace. These moments were always strange to her. In public, the last thing she'd want to do is make herself so bare, her feelings known to any casting a stray eye her direction. They were both more then use to keeping up appearances, and they made sure to make up for it whenever they had some privacy.

"You're right … of course you're right."

Spyro turned from her with a bemused expression upon his snout. "Oh, by the stars themselves, I wish I could hear those words forever."

She only smirked to herself before smacking the back of his skull with her wing knuckle. "So sorry, but you shouldn't get use to it. You'll have to settle for an 'I love you'."

Spyro grunted before rubbing his head, smiling to the words and licking her cheek quickly. "Of course dear, when have I ever not settled for those words?"

"Well, if you ever don't, you'll find my tail on your backside faster then you can say Arborick."

"Duly noted, but now, I think we should get back to bed. We have an important meeting tomorrow." stated Spyro.

Cynder took in a deep breath before nodding, slowly turning away and making her way beneath the archway, her tail swaying in a certain manner that only Spyro knew the meaning of. Half smirking to himself, he stood his ground, prompting her to gaze over her shoulder.

"Well? You just gonna stand there with that stupid look on your face?"

Spyro shook his snout some and laughed before spreading his wings a bit, the membrane stretching and yearning for freedom.

"I will join you soon Cyn, I'm just gonna take a quick flight, I won't be long. Promise."

Cynder huffed and half smiled, shaking her head as she proceed back into their chambers. "Oh, fine then. Make sure you don't tire yourself out too much, you'll need it when you get back."

A heavy blush followed by a chill started crawling up his limbs. She was always good at getting beneath his scales that way. Smiling as she returned to the bowl, he turned his attention to the edge of the balcony, perching his strong front limbs on the stone railing as his wings extended. Giving a light grunt, he launched himself forward, going headlong into a dive towards the ground, extending his powerful wings outward and propelling himself into the cool night air.

Cynder watched him take off, her frame lowering into the bowl moments later. The look of content that was previously on her snout returned, jade eyes slowly closing as she took a deep breath. "That drake always knows how to keep me sane."

A crimson drake of fantastic build made his way down the cobbled stones. His muscular body and seemingly dignified bearing made for a spectacular sight, though further inspection perhaps suggested a more cruel nature.

Sharp, hooked barbs lined their way down his spine, capped off with a vicious, serrated sickle like tail blade. His skull featured another large horn protruding straight upwards, then curving forward in a violent manner. Two smaller curved horns flanked this one on his temples. His fierce looking gaze was punctuated by silver like metallic eyes.

"Screw you Terradon. First day back and you immediately regulate me to pointless night patrols. I should have guessed as much." he muttered to himself, one of his claws screeching across the cobblestone path.

His attention was turned upwards moments later, a shadow quickly bolting across his vision thanks to the light of the moons above. He didn't bother raising his guard, being more then aware of who it was.

"A nice night, wouldn't you agree Scorch?"

The crimson dragon turned his gaze up to see the noble purple dragon of legend gazing back at him with a stupid smirk, his wings powerfully motioning to keep him aloft.

"Oh yeah, it's wonderful. I wish I could take the time to really enjoy myself, but unlike some drakes around here, I'm not gifted special exceptions." he responded bitterly, turning his gaze from Spyro and proceeding down the path.

He heard what seemed to be some manner of obscenity muttered behind him before a rush of wind signaled a physical presence beside him, Spyro having landed and begun striding alongside.

Scorch was indeed a physical specimen. He had been living with the Guardians at the Temple for as long as Spyro could remember. Certainly ever since the formation of the new world and the Alliance itself. He wore the typical armor of his station, strong shoulder plates that were decorated with red gems, along with forearm bracelets. His helmet was made of the same material and covered all but his snout, eyes and horns.

The chain across his neck bore his rank insignia within the Alliance: Sub-Guardian. This was represented by a diamond like pendant with two gemstones, one blue and the other yellow positioned on the horizontal axis of the diamond.

Spyro, being off duty, was not wearing any of his attire at this time of night. As a result, he almost looked pathetic next to the adorned drake. He was slightly larger then Spyro was, though both were close to the same age. Scorch was well known for his fitness, but that really wasn't his greatest strength. Either way, he was never the easiest to get along with and his looks didn't help.

"Is there a reason you're deciding to bother me right now? Want to rub it in a bit? I have an idea! Go find Terradon, I'm sure the two of you can generate one decent idea if you work together." growled Scorch in contempt, Spyro simply chuckling and rolling his eyes.

"You know Scorch, did you ever think that you might be a full fledged Guardian by now if you just adjusted your approach to conversation a bit?"

The crimson drake just huffed and turned to face his counterpart. "Did you ever think you wouldn't be able to run around doing whatever you'd like if your scales weren't purple?"

Spyro just stopped and let his gaze bore right back into him. Conversation with Scorch was bad enough under normal circumstances, but it was quite clear that he was in a special kind of mood tonight.

"We have quite an event tomorrow, I recommend you finish your patrol as quick as possible and get some rest." spoke Spyro softly, not getting riled up.

Scorch just snickered and turned his attention forward once again. "Yeah, some new diplomat wandering through again, can't wait to see how much this one complains."

"Well, it's kinda their job to complain. It's our job to make sure they won't complain even worse."

"They should just be left to fend for themselves. All we're doing is delaying the inevitable. Eventually Spyro, whether you like it or not, they will be at each others throats and you know it." replied Scorch gruffly.

The purple drake sighed and shook his head. "Whether it's inevitable or not is irrelevant Scorch, it is our duty and the duty of the Alliance itself to maintain some semblance of order and progress. If there is even the smallest chance we can avoid the pointless sacrifice of lives, we need to do all we can to honor it."

Scorch just stared at him and scoffed. "You keep thinking that, we'll most likely see sooner rather then later. Until then, shouldn't you be getting back to your seductress?"

Spyro's face became far darker then usual, never being particularly fond of Cynder's various nicknames being used in such manners. Nevertheless, it wasn't worth coming to blows over.

"Good night Scorch."

"Yeah yeah, I'm sure you'll have a wonderful evening. Maybe in the morning you can entertain us all with greater detai-"

A strong burst of wind suddenly erupted from the ground around the pair of drakes, Spyro immediately reacting in a pro-active manner, raising his wings in a defensive shielding. Scorch gave a small roar of surprise before feeling his legs give out from under him, the ground shifting somewhat as he tumbled against one of the Temple's stone walls.

Spyro felt his eyeridges raise as he held his ground, the energy in the air being quite familiar to him, but he hadn't experienced it for some years. Electricity cackled through the night sky, bursts of pent up energy starting to release as the ground next to Spyro started giving way, causing him to lose footing as he started sliding downwards.

"What …. what is this …?" he questioned himself in surprise before there was a sudden burst of raw power, Spyro barely being able to shield himself with a wall of rock. Though this helped blunt the impact, it was still too immense. The purple howled out as pieces of broken stone and electric currents slammed against his scales, launching him backwards violently, his trajectory ending against one of the massive tree trunks stretching skyward.

The great oak shook violently, the bark cracking as Spyro's body slid downwards, a pained groan leaving his muzzle as he hit the ground, one of his wings clearly snapped in a manner that was unnatural to common bone structure, various other small lacerations lining his scales.

Massive amounts of energy quickly dissipated into the once again calm night. A ten foot deep crater was now formed in the epicenter of the explosion, dust kicked up in heaps.

Scorch grunted and started to lift his frame from the ground, noticing that several leaves were dropping from above, finally settling from what just transpired.

"Fuck me … what was that?" he growled before shaking his head roughly. It felt like he was just bowled over by a full blooded dreadwing.

Regaining his bearings, Scorch coughed before turning his attention to his right, noticing the now limp form of Spyro crumpled against the base of one of the great oak.

"Wow, really did a number on you huh mighty one …" he chuckled amusingly before leaning down beside the purple. He grunted before reaching into one of the satchels attached to his breast plate, pulling out a red life crystal and pressing it against Spyro's scales. His wounds were a tad more severe then a typical bruise it seemed.

Scorch turned towards the crater that had formed earlier, exhaling and checking on Spyro once more before lifting his snout and releasing a massive ball of fire into the sky, the orb erupting after a few seconds. Hopefully, they would respond promptly this time around.

The crimson drake proceeded towards the edge of the crater, small pieces of earth still breaking lose as dust was just now starting to calm. He was taken by surprise as a figure started taking shape.

"That's far enough, stop where you are or I'll make sure you're nothing but ashes!"

There wasn't any verbal response, though he could tell the figure hadn't moved. Growling to himself, he grew impatient. Lifting his front limbs, he brought them down upon the ground, letting his frustration serve as his power.

The resulting tidal wave of flame blew away what dust remained, while also serving to light several of the nearby trees on fire. Huffing to himself, the drake only turned his attention down, eyes boring into the strange sight before him.

A dragon, an unfamiliar dragon at that. His scales were a deep shade of shadow, eyes a visage of sapphire. Scorch was very rarely at a loss for words, or intimidated, but the sight of the strange runes against his scales caused a small wave of uncertainty to overtake him.

The shadowy drake's eyes were wide with a hint of confusion. Slowly, one of his limbs started to lift. Scorch wasted no time and released an intense blast of fire from his snout, coming within centimeters of the drake's scales.

"Don't move, whoever you are. Things are not about to get any easier for you friend, so don't push it!"

The mysterious drake's eyes turned upwards, looking straight back at Scorch as a frown formed on his snout, displaying sharp teeth. "I'm sorry I don't underst-"

"Oh, I'm sure you don't. No worries though, you'll get a reality check pretty soon." bellowed Scorch as his eyes once more drifted towards Spyro's weakened frame, the sound of shuffling claws getting louder behind him as well as several non-coherent voices.

Scorch glared directly down at the drake and smirked softly, his sharp silver eyes glimmering. "For attempted murder of Spyro, Hero of the Realms, you may consider yourself a prisoner of the Avalar Alliance."

A/N: Happy New Year to all out there! Here is to a good 2017! Here is the introduction of another of my older characters, Scorch. Also the melding begins between these two different periods of history.

My Characters: Arus, Xalanth, Razeth, Perrath, Scorch, Kalog