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 4:
Discord
Spyro sighed with encroaching frustration. He absolutely hated the idea of being so disconnected from everything. He had taken up his usual perch against the stone railing overlooking the Temple. In a figuratively short distance away, he could make just barely make out the various Council members and acolytes gathered to welcome the arriving dignitary.
The purple drake observed astutely the entire time – watching her descend from on high and proceed to put on quite an impressive vanity show. He figured it was commonplace for a water dragon to display such mastery, at least in their given element. One might have concluded that she was a Guardian already.
The purple frowned and stepped away, turning and proceeding back inside with disappointment. Who knows, perhaps she already is some manner of Guardian back among her true society. One of the goals of this entire arrangement was to help reintegrate any cut off dragon conclaves outside of their borders.
The Alliance itself was completely unaware of their presence until a message was delivered unto them via third party. These water dragons seemed quite the mysterious bunch, but perhaps it was normal to be wary when taking such a leap of faith. The hope was to show them that strength through unity was the proper concept for rebuilding their world, but as Spyro learned the hard way: not everyone is quite so eager to put blind trust in complete strangers.
"Up and about already?"
Spyro turned his violet orbs upwards to see Cynder approaching him, a pouch attached to her flank via leather sling. He sighed sheepishly and slumped meekly, making for a distasteful image in her eyes.
"I hate this, Cyn, hasn't even been a full day and I'm already going insane. Have you come to bust me out?"
She smiled slyly before proceeding into the bowl, resting on her haunches before giving him a commanding look. It was completely incomprehensible, but she could practically tell him what to do by giving basic looks now.
The wounded drake nodded in compliance, making his way to her side and gingerly getting into a comfortable position. His forelimbs throbbed in pain and his wing felt no better; an agonizing grimace overtaking him.
Cynder shook her head while slowly removing the pouch from her flank. "Seriously, if you just stayed still it wouldn't be so bad, you'll only heal slower if you continue to aggravate these injuries. Now sit down."
Spyro rested on his side, going limp and huffing to himself, his snout resting on a plush bolster. The ebony draken proceeded to remove several helpful herbs and concoctions that she'd managed to "procure" from the medical cache.
He felt his brow raise, eyeing the small grinding cup she also had in her possession. "Did Ember teach you a few new tricks?"
"I don't need to be taught anything, least of all from her. I have my own ways." rebuked Cynder stubbornly. Spyro couldn't help but egg her on.
"Oh believe me, I know, but they tend to be a tad more … insensitive."
"Is that right? Well, I'll be sure to remember that the next time you're beaten to a bloody pulp."
Spyro smirked boastfully before his eyes went wide, yelping in discomfort as a stinging sensation assaulted his entire frame. Cynder held an innocent gaze about her features and just tilted her head.
"Oh, I'm sorry? Was that too direct? I'll have to try harder."
With that, she pressed one of her claws against the various bruises lining his chest, rubbing in the liquid ointment with force. Spyro yelped again as his tail thrashed defiantly, limbs screaming in resentment before reflexes took over.
"Ok! Ok! I get it! You win!" shouted the drake in surrender. Cynder just half-smirked in triumph before looking over his wing attentively.
"What's that? The big bad Spyro is giving up? I guess I just wasn't sensitive enough for his needs. I can always go get Ember you know, I'm sure she can put off returning to Warfang for a few more hours as to properly attend your lofty standards."
Spyro attempted to relax once again, his orbs observing her barbed tail sliding against the edge of the bowl. "Alright, I promise, I will be a better patient – no need to get drastic."
"Hmmm … that sounds reasonable," she replied with a devious grin, returning the cup and other various herbs to the satchel. Spyro exhaled and gazed after her as she dropped the pouch on one of the stone chairs in the corner, the only thing visible being her backside.
"You know, Spyro, you're gonna be stuck in here awhile – which means we'll just have to learn to get along better." she said before rotating her head, a sly smile gracing her snout, one that caused the purple drake to freeze and cough.
"Oh, well … I um .. "
"I can promise you one thing," she continued, her frame slowly gliding towards him, the hidden power she possessed over him boiling towards the surface. "I know how to attend your condition better then any other draken could ever dream of."
Spyro's gazed was locked on jade pools, her lithe frame slipping down into the bowl like a serpent, a bead of sweat falling upon the nape of his neck.
"Well, ahem … you might be on to something .." he replied with a smirk of his own, Cynder hissing in response before her snout pressed against his firmly. His good wing eagerly rose upwards, stroking her flank as the kiss deepened.
A deep rooted urge started to swell within his chest – one that his muscles screamed to make a reality as the union grew more intense, her own wings now sliding forward to embrace him in return as the heat bubbled about their hardened scales.
The shadow draken broke the kiss with a soft groan, her snout sliding along his neck and up the side of his skull, tail willingly coiling with his. "I suppose I'll have to be … more sensitive this time around."
Spyro shuddered softly, his golden chest plates pressed against her own by this point, his wounds and wing still badgering him in pointless protest.
"Well, to be honest, Cyn, I prefer it when you're rough."
The smooth draken seemed to glide across the stone pavilion, her fuchsia orbs sliding back and forth between anything she could inspect. Terradon tilted his head, standing patiently until the water draken had sated her curiosity. Terradon and Scorch did the same, though the latter quickly began growling in impatience.
Her gaze turned to the carved dragons which stood in both defiance and gratitude, investigating the sculpted images in greater detail. The turquoise shine upon her scales seemed all the richer when combined with the impressive, and yet informal, elemental display she'd just performed. A noticeable gleam bounced off her forehead, brow carrying a simply designed, yet richly adorned silver diadem.
Arus gazed about her – along with just about any other official nearby. Her attention was fully directed towards the stone sentinels, seemingly having forgot about everything else surrounding her.
"This is incredible craftsmanship, I dare say it's almost on par with those back home – though – a tad less desirable." she spoke while stroking her jawline with a claw. Sampson and the two other moles accompanying him muttered quiet rebukes.
Scorch groaned and rolled his silver eyes. "What did I tell ya, Terradon … just another airhead spouting nonsense. Do we really need to stand here all day while she talks with herself?"
"Yes, and you will enjoy it." shot back the umber drake, resulting in Scorch cursing softly. Arus enjoyed the small torment before engaging in study of the new arrival.
She was certainly a representative of evolution and dynamics. Her entire frame was clearly influenced and molded by a life at sea – smooth and toned – though certainly not appearing overly bulky. The small blades that dotted her spine appeared born from rock, but one that would only be found in the depths, tempered by thousands of years of intense pressure. Smooth webbing interconnected her various claws, and an extra spread of scales lined the ridges of her neck, giving off a very unique – hood like – canopy that they'd never seen before. Two elongated horns crowned her skull, both arching back aggressively towards her backplates.
Terrador carefully stepped forward, coughing and bowing in respectful reverence. "It is a pleasure to address you, Korryana, I am Terrador, Guardian of Earth and member of the Avalar Alliance Council, I would like to formally welcome-"
"I know all about you, Master Guardian. My father has told me all about the old ways of our landlocked cousins." stated the draken flatly, her eyes still not abandoning the carvings. Terrador frowned noticeably but recovered quickly, Cyril coming forward from the rear of the platform as he did.
"I must admit, we were taken by surprise by your message. We never expected dragons from the sea to establish contact so quickly, or through such a indirect manner." stated the Ice drake.
This time – her head turned, orbs observing and examining the proud Guardian for a significant time. He didn't fall back nor take offense, though her methods seemed to be quite mechanical and off-putting.
"Ice dragons, known for being quite prideful and arrogant but ripe with potential. I take it that you're Cyril?" she asked bluntly.
He only nodded, not paying much mind to her statements, at least not on the surface. "That I am, both Terrador and I serve as Guardians on the Council. Our brother, Guardian Volteer, is currently enthralled in study and sends both his apologies and regards."
She arched her neck in a noble manner before waltzing forward between Terrador and Cyril, eyes fully fixed upon Terradon at this point. "I see, well, I will be sure to make a mental note of that."
Even Scorch found himself captivated by this series of events, finding the stuffy draken quite amusing. Terradon quickly found himself snout to snout with her, the pink rhapsody within her eyes mentally challenging him.
"So then, Spyro, I may assume?"
Terradon raised one brow and couldn't help but smile in embarrassment, Scorch also scoffing as the two elder Guardians gazed at one another in shock.
"Who me? Spyro? No no, I'm afraid my scales are a couple shades off, my lady."
"Same can be said of your accomplishments." mused Scorch with a forearm against his snout. The draken appeared unamused by the confession and instead turned her gaze to Arus, eyes locking with his in the same manner as before with Terradon.
He reacted the only way he knew how – his sapphire orbs glinting as he extended one of his paws towards her, half-smiling as he did. "Afraid I'm not Spyro either, but the name is Arus, pleasure to meet you."
Scorch growled and quickly shoved Arus's arm down with his tail, edge of which causing a noticeable laceration against the darkened scales.
"Don't forget, friend, you're still accused, and until you're proclaimed innocent you have no voice here." snapped the crimson drake while Arus cradled his arm. Terradon made sure to make his displeasure known to the cruel dragon with an intense stare.
Korryana observed with a neutral expression, eyes still studying Arus in detail. "Strange, the very sight of those markings on you makes you scream of destiny, but you're not him."
Hunter took this moment to finally step forward, cape softly dancing alongside the soothing breeze. "It is an honor to greet a new delegation at last, but unfortunately, Spyro is currently resting."
"Oh? In the middle of the day? Perhaps he's not as heroic as we've heard." she responded with a hint of disappointment.
"Oh no, my lady," said Terradon, "He is very much what you've heard, but unfortunately, he is recuperating."
"From what?"
Everyone slowly let their gazes drift focus on Arus, making the shell shocked drake narrow his eyes in resentment.
"You see, this mystery dragon here showed up on our doorstep last night, and was nice enough to attempt a savage murder of Spyro while he was at it." snickered Scorch while slapping his paw against the back of Arus's head, the drake struggling to keep his composure as intense frustration mounted.
"Really? So you tried to kill a legendary dragon and have yet to be put to death?" asked the turquoise draken in a stoic tone.
Terradon grunted and quickly stepped between her and Arus. "My lady, I think you will find it much more comfortable if we proceed into the Temple, I have an escort prepared to further assist you."
The draken let her gaze linger on Arus for several prolonged moments, ignoring Terradon and turning on claw once again. "No escort will be necessary, I am fully capable of tending to my own needs."
The umber dragon frowned before looking to his grandfather, the older drake giving a curt nod. Terradon bowed his head, slowly falling away before returning to his original position "Very well, but at the very least, allow us to show you to your chambers."
"I will be fine on my own, please, do not find yourselves distracted by my presence. I am here for a simple reason, to observe and arrive at my own conclusions. Once I believe I've learned enough, I will return to Nebulus and report my findings to my father."
The Guardians shared various glares of growing worry and disappointment. Hunter also appeared flustered but made no inclination of argument. Terradon nodded before turning to Scorch. "We will be returning to the barracks, it will be necessary to find proper arrangements for Arus until the Council is ready to speak with him."
"Why not just let him sleep on the kitchen floor? Do we really have to waste a room on a criminal?" whined Scorch distastefully. Terradon gave him another fierce glare, growing quite short with the drake's antics.
"He isn't anything until the Council says so you insufferable newt! Do as you're commanded and leave the decisions to those more qualified to make them." responded the earth drake with a repressed snarl.
Scorch narrowed his eyes and bit his lower lip. "Fine, have it your way, but don't be surprised if he tries to bolt."
Korryana was currently busy gazing out upon the unending horizon, paying close attention to everything the drakes said. At this rate, whatever hopes they'd dreamed for in this so called "Alliance" were in serious doubt.
Terradon motioned for Arus to proceed forward, Scorch trailing behind them and muttering obscenities the entire time. Arus acted on impulse and forced one last curious glance backwards, making eye contact with the water draken, both sharing one final mental observation before he was led away.
She gazed after them, the trio having proceeded back up the cobblestone pathway which led towards the center hub of the Temple grounds. While things were not looking up in terms of stability, she could at least look forward to mingling amongst several interesting individuals.
"Dignitary Korryana," spoke Cyril from behind her, forcing the water draken to half-turn. "While you may not desire a full escort, we insist you allow Ambassador Solarana to show you the basics of what we have to offer here at the Temple."
The drakens eyes turned quickly to meet the sharp gaze of another female. Yellow eyes pressed against her own fuchsia orbs – an emotional black hole hovering above such a rare union. She was poised and dignified, much like herself, but she could see through this draken already.
"A pleasure, lady Korryana, or perhaps you would prefer … your highness?" queried the orange draken with an unflinching gaze. Korryana forced a shrug and stepped forward forcefully; wings spreading outwards for a relieving stretch.
"Your highness does seem a tad formal, but I won't stop you if that's what you'd prefer."
Cyril and Terrador both shared small breaths, hoping to end such a torrent of clashing personalities quickly at this point.
"I'm sure you're quite tired after such a long journey, Solarana will show you to your chambers and anywhere else you might require. Let us once again reiterate how immense of a pleasure it is to have you join us." stated Terrador with an oddly relaxed expression.
"When will I meet Spyro?" asked Korryana suddenly.
Many of the spectators broke out into small conversations again at mention of his name, causing Cyril to release a hum. "When he is well enough to return to his duties, which is hopefully soon."
She seemed to sigh in further disappointment, causing Solarana to forcefully bide her tongue.
"The Council will be gathering tomorrow in order to discuss the incident involving Spyro's injuries. You are more then welcome to attend, but I can't make any promises for you on meeting him soon." stated Hunter firmly, his paw coming up to glide along his chin, furs standing on edge.
"Very well then, I suppose that will have to do. It was a pleasure meeting all of you, and I greatly appreciate your hospitality. I look forward to learning more during my stay here." responded Korryana in the most lighthearted tone offered up by her yet.
Both Cyril and Terrador nodded and gave small bows, the draken returning one of her own before looking towards Solarana.
"Shall we … Solarana was it?"
The sly draken just smirked and tilted her head, forearm directing Korryana towards the path. "Oh yes, we shall."
The water draken stepped forward, followed moments afterward by Solarana. Terrador, Cyril and the other Alliance members present observed quietly as they departed, the ice Guardian releasing a heavy sigh once they had proceeded out of ear shot.
"That could have gone a bit better."
"Obviously," stated Hunter firmly.
Terrador exhaled loudly before rubbing his forehead. "Nobody ever said dealing with other conclaves would be a simple affair. It's quite clear they are fully prepared to think before leaping."
"Not a bad idea, I say." stated Sampson, the mole planted beneath Terrador's front limbs. The earth Guardian couldn't help but chuckle.
"Indeed, after everything that's happened – we should be thankful that they'd rather observe then declare wars. We will have to represent our Ancestors well, and show the water dragons that we are an organization that has nothing but the good of the world at heart. We must show them our resolve. I trust in all you to aid with this goal."
His fellow counselors agreed in various manners before they began departing the pavilion in small groups, the guards stationed at the edges of the platform being the last to properly dismiss themselves.
The setting sun was plastered against the snow capped mountains – nothing but the sound of birds chirping and waters running to massage the senses. An older, grayish drake stepped onto the pavilion, his analytically charged stares falling upon the statues their new guest had been so enamored with.
He leaned down gingerly, the stones upon which she'd performed her grand entrance still darkened by enduring moisture. His snout slowly curled up into a sly smile, eyes focusing outward onto what was the immense visage of Warfang miles in the distance.
"Water dragons eh … Zacharah will be most eager to learn of this."
"Where do you suggest we put him then?" asked Scorch while stepping into the barracks entryway. Terradon continued to lead, his eyes closing in brief thought before turning down a long hallway. Arus observed as they moved past the mess hall he had become so acquainted with not hours before.
"He will be assigned one of the empty bunks in the Squire's quarters. The new recruits haven't yet arrived from the Academy, so we have room to spare. Show him the way if you'd please." commanded the umber drake.
Scorch stopped in his tracks and growled, having had enough of baby sitting this criminal for most of the day. "Anything else?"
Terradon just turned and lost himself in mocking thought for a moment. "Hmmm … well once you're done with that, be sure to assign one of the Knights or Sentinels to guard him, he'll have to be ready for tomorrow. After that, well, you could get me a cup of Lazuli Tea."
"Yeah, fuck that," grunted Scorch in return before shoving past the earth drake. "Let's go, convict! Not waiting on you again."
Arus stared after him, a steady trail of blood still leaking from the gash he'd received earlier from the crimson. Terradon looked at him with mellowed stone eyes, sighing quietly.
"Later on, I'll try to get someone from the infirmary to take a look at you. I know you had a pretty rough night, but for now, you'll have to stay confined to quarters. The less trouble caused the easier it will be for you tomorrow."
Arus eyed him before nodding in thanks, slowly limping after Scorch as the umber drake huffed. Deep within his breast, he truly hoped that Arus was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, but nothing could be taken for granted now. He shook his head and proceeded back down the corridor opposite them – having to draw up a patrol schedule for the following day.
Scorch pushed a heavy door open, revealing an open chamber which contained at least a dozen stone bunks. The only light source was a small fire pit in the center of the floor, an open hole in the ceiling allowing thick billows of smoke an convenient escape.
"Well, these look comfortable, I'm looking forward to having a sore back on top of everything else." chuckled Arus.
Scorch didn't say anything and forcefully pushed Arus forward towards one of the rough beds. "Well, it's still more then you deserve in my mind. I don't care what you do so long as it stays in here. If you have any Ancestors to pray to, I would settle up with them before your execution tomorrow."
Arus growled repulsively and dragged his good claws across the stone floor. "For your sake, you should hope they do end me."
The crimson only snickered before expanding his chest, the cruel gaze upon his snout combining with the glow of the fire to present a devilish visage.
"Better drakes then you have tried. Unfortunately, the whore of a drake who spawned you did a piss-poor job in teaching proper respect for your betters."
Arus didn't back down despite his wounds, the scales on his chest also expanding as the energy in the air seemed to ignite. He didn't know why he was encouraging this – even if he knew how to fight properly he wouldn't stand a chance in this state. Funny thing was, he didn't care.
"If there was anything better to respect here then you might have a point …"
Scorch moved closer, his snout curling upwards to reveal such wicked teeth, silver eyes narrowing as both drake's limbs tensed. Arus eagerly smirked to himself smugly before continuing."What was it? … Newt?"
A flash of claws and fangs burst forward, Arus finding himself tumbling across the floor violently. The crimson drake pinned him with tremendous speed, the claws upon his paws slicing into sore shoulder scales, causing Arus to release a howl of pain.
"Say it, one more fucking time scum …" seethed the vicious crimson drake before slamming his forehead against his struggling quarry. Arus growled as an explosion of stars filled his cranium. That still didn't stop him from pushing the envelope.
"Okay then … NEWT!" snarled Arus before ramming his lower limbs into the enraged drake's belly, forcing Scorch across the room – making contact with the cold stone wall with a crunch.
"You're gonna get it now!" sneered Scorch before making a quick recovery, launching himself forward eagerly and aiming for Arus's throat. The dark drake attempted to counter with his tail, but found the crimson's actions far too precise.
Another shot of pain rolled across his skull as he felt his spine make contact with the ground, Scorch once more pinning him down, drool descending from his maw. Arus took note of the borderline insane aura currently infesting Scorch's eyes, the realization of unleashing such raw anger dawning upon him. This could very well end up being a highly fatal mistake.
He gargled as Scorch suddenly shoved his snout downwards, razor sharp fangs digging easily into Arus's neck scales. He howled in pain, tail thrashing violently as he attempted to bring the crescent shaped blades to bear, but again, proved too slow as Scorch used the hooked blade from his own tail to pin Arus down.
Flesh was torn away as the blood crazed drake spit out chunks of darkened scale, crimson fluid pouring off his fangs, maniacal eyes screaming for more. "I … WARNED … you!" howled Scorch, Arus quickly reaching outwards in haste, hoping to locate anything that could possibly aid him.
"Fucking pathetic! … Weak pathetic scum such as you …" Scorch continued to snarl, one of his paws slicing across Arus's chest, drawing more blood and cries of anguish. The scales split so easily for the crimson, such feelings never ceasing to bolster the violent drakes undisciplined and erratic mindset.
The shadowed drake felt his heart pounding violently, paws sliding across the floor in desperation. Then he felt the heat, and soon dipped his paw into the simmering fire pit, pulling free a loosened log.
"I guess you'll have to settle for an early exit … don't feel bad, I'll let every draken I lay with know just how much stronger they were then the pathetic, whimpering hatchling that was Ar-"
The log struck him across the muzzle, blood spurting against the wall as the crimson drake bellowed, paw coming up to safeguard his snout as his forked tongue quickly identified what were once singular pieces of teeth.
Arus lifted himself with great effort, pain pulsing throughout every corner of his frame as he tossed the bloodied log aside. "I hope … they don't mind a less then perfect smile."
Scorch felt his mind erupt like a volcano, his eyes going wide and muscles trembling in feral rage. Unleashing a blood curdling roar, he lowered his head and became completely enveloped in flames. Arus had no time to react before what could only be described as a blazing comet rammed directly into his golden chest, violently pinning him against the far wall.
The drake howled in pain, his limbs attempting to push the hostile entity away, but was only burned horribly as a result. The fireball only picked up speed and pressed into Arus's scales harder, causing the shadowy hide to start melting away from solid bone. Arus couldn't think – he couldn't breath.
His pulse quickened and mind started to blank as more and more blood poured onto the now slippery stone surface, his limbs going limp and tail twitching weakly. What choice did he have at this point but to accept what was, he could think of far worse fates, including never truly knowing who he was.
Sapphire eyes collapsed, his mind finally giving in as he surrendered to his grisly fate. The only thing he could remember after that was a pure white dragon hovering above him.
Arus … wake …
Eyes of intensifying sapphire opened wildly, an immensely powerful white glow rapidly enveloping them, followed by an earth-shattering roar. Scorch had not ceased his comet drill, the inferno death spiral still plowing against the shadowy drake's chest cavity.
Arus's gaze turned downward, blazing white eyes narrowing before his forelimbs reached out, slicing through the intense flames and grabbing Scorch by his shoulders with ease, suitably shocking the crimson drake long enough for a crescent bladed tail to lash out across his neck scales.
Scorch barely had time to draw backwards, avoiding the full force of the blow, but seethed in pain as the razor sharp edge sliced across his copper hued chest plates.
"You … how did you …." he muttered before staring up, noticing the endless pits of blinding white and pulsing veins dotting Arus's muscles.
"What are you …?".
No verbal response came, only fury as an intense flash blinded Scorch. Arus moved forward gracefully, the runes upon his scales starting to pulse uncontrollably.
"I can't … I can't see …!" whined the stunned drake, frame nearly tripping to the floor before the crescent bladed tail once more made direct contact, knocking Scorch backward into the fire pit mercilessly.
Scorch thrashed defensively, trying to free himself from the inconvenient prison, shear panic starting to take root. "STAY AWAY!!"
Arus still didn't speak, his white eyes facing down before the markings on his body pulsed with even greater force. Then, the markings seemingly sprang to life – a white chain of pure energy stretching outward across the stones, diving down into the pit and wrapping around Scorch violently, forcing another panicked scream from his snout.
"No … no … stop … STOP THIS! MURDERER!!" bellowed Scorch as the uncaring grip lifted him upwards into the air. Violent winds seemed to surround him at this point, launching the petrified drake into a tumbling descent of helplessness.
The chains only constricted Scorch's muscles harder, burning against his flesh – searing scales away as they began flashing once again, tones of red slowly replacing the original white hue.
He wouldn't go down like this, not him. He was the strongest drake in this Temple. No way this freak of a dragon was gonna take any pleasure away from humiliating him.
Forcing his eyes open, Scorch mustered the reserves of his mana. He shouldn't have underestimated this creature. Had he been more in control, he would have ended it fast. Smirking cockily, the crimson drake revealed his teeth, several of them cracked or shattered.
"Well, you … are just full of tricks …. but … so am I!" snarled the fiery drake before he stretched his neck, forcing the pain caused by the constricting chains into submission. He focused his energies and nimbly released a small, but highly precise fireball from his nostrils.
The velocious orb made direct contact between Arus's eyes, the possessed drakes' skull falling backwards from the force of the snipe shot.
Scorch smirked to himself in accomplishment. "Bulls-eye tough guy …"
His pride in the achievement quickly evaporated as Arus's head snapped back forward, the only evidence of the attack upon his flesh being a dark skid between his brows. The chains got even tighter, grinding over crimson scales and causing Scorch to scream. "Fuck … that's … impossible!"
Arus made no further motions, though the red pulse of the rune like chains greatly intensified. The crimson drake could feel his life force starting to slip away, trembling violently as whatever trap he was currently enthralled in took its toll.
Suddenly, the shadowy drake took a deep breath, summoning a power newly provided to him. Scorch trembled and attempted to flex his muscles, hoping to force himself free. He found it was to no avail. The pulsing caught his attention, wide silver irises fixating on Arus.
His back was arching, snout opening slowly to reveal a wicked blend of teeth and flames. Scorch shuddered and felt the fear burst forth. The burning white eyes washed over him, piercing the metaphorical armor Scorch had created for himself.
"No … no … that's … that's my own attack! How the hell, please … just LET ME GO! I BEG YOU!"
His words fell upon deaf ears, Arus continuing to prepare the fireball within the confines of his snout, the chains gripping his tormentor more unsympathetically then ever to make for an easy target. The crimson couldn't do anything at this point. Hyperventilating rapidly, his eyes slammed shut in anticipation for the cruel end.
A heavy crack broke through the chamber, everything freezing for but the briefest of moments before the white glowing eyes of Arus flickered and vanished, being replaced by the common sapphire orbs which bore an expression of relentless exhaustion.
Scorch trembled as the unyielding chains suddenly evaporated, dropping the shell shocked drake onto the bloodied floor in a heap. Seconds later, Arus collapsed onto his flank, the umber hued drake Terradon standing behind him, heavy mace-like tip of his tail brought to bear.
Scorch whimpered pathetically, forcing himself onto his forelimbs – wing membrane torn in certain spots thanks to the searing power that had been strangling him. With great effort, his metal eyes rose upwards, catching sight of Terradon and half-smirking.
"Heh … stealing all the glory … so you." he muttered before collapsing completely. The earth drake only breathed deeply and stared at the drained entity that was Arus. Several other drakes and cheetahs rapidly entered the chamber, most freezing in surprise at the carnage before them.
Terradon sighed. "Well then, tomorrow's gonna be hell."
Perrath could feel her surging heartbeat finally starting to settle. The blank screen before her was a result of Arus's unconscious state. What had just transpired more then confirmed that something had not gone right. She immediately fell back onto her haunches, contemplating her mental schematics and formulas – attempting to narrow down a search field.
So many variables were possible, but she would have to report this unfortunate realization to Xalanth as soon as opportunity arose. Her gentle gaze turned towards the leisure quarters where Razeth was currently resting. It had been good timing, for if she had seen elements of this incident, there would have been even more questions to answer, and that's something Xalanth wouldn't desire to tolerate.
Continuing to contemplate for a time, the blank screen before her started to crackle in complaint, forcing her back into reality. This was going to make everything much more difficult and unpredictable. He was going to be so disappointed in the situation, and in her. She slumped sadly, heavy doubt starting to consume her essence.
"Are you alright?" asked a familiar voice.
Perrath turned her vision up to meet Razeth's concerned gaze. She tried to force a smile, but found she lacked the motivation.
"I wish, but unfortunately, I have discovered a problem that could very well compromise the entire mission." she responded quietly, barely being perceived as audible.
Razeth tilted her head before gazing up at the screen, darkness being the only visible presence. She also noticed that the pulse of the time capsule seemed faster then before, her eyes investigating the crystals and taking a mental note of it.
"I see, so what is this problem?" asked the Optio gently.
Perrath sighed and regained her footing, making her way towards the calibration machine with a grimace. "Arus, has lost his mind."
"What do you mean by that?"
"I mean, that all of the programming from condition 605 has been lost in translation. Sometime during the transport, Arus was inadvertently reset. I don't know if it happened during or after … but he has completely forgotten his purpose and objectives."
Razeth gasped heavily in realization, the thought starting to dawn that all that had transpired up to this point could possibly be for for naught. "Is there a way to reprogram him?"
"Not now, the link has been established, if we were to pull him out forcefully, we would lose our best window of opportunity. Not to mention that doing so would possibly completely obliterate the soul crystals." stated the cyan draken in defeat.
Razeth moved towards her cautiously, taking note that the Legate was still absent, but the Avocati were not. "Well then, I suppose we have no choice but to hope that he can accomplish his mission without any guidance."
Perrath issued a grave expression. "That decision belongs to Xalanth. Knowing his desires to see this succeed, I suspect he will concur, but there is also another problem I've discovered."
"That being?"
"Arus has also lost his abilities. His combat skills and experience are gone, along with the entirety of his memories. Regretfully, another casualty of the time travel." explained Perrath, voice laced with a rising grief.
Raz came up to her side, eyes still focused on the blank screen. "So, what's this darkness all about then … is he sleeping?"
"Hah, something like that, he was knocked out in a fight." answered Perrath. Razeth chuckled amusingly and rested on her haunches.
"Just a wild guess, that prick with the reddish scales?"
"Yep, and he took quite a beating as well."
Razeth licked at an itch teasing her wing joint, grunting in annoyance when she couldn't quite reach it. "Well, I could see that one coming a mile away, If I was there I might have removed his ability to pro-create just for the fun of it."
Perrath couldn't help but giggle, her talons gracing the computer screens. Razeth noticed that she wasn't really doing anything, causing her to gaze on with in concern.
"You think it's all your fault, huh?"
"It is. This was my design, my responsibility. Xalanth is going to be furious with me." despaired the gloomy draken with a cracking voice.
Razeth sighed and sympathized with her. Generally, she couldn't stand this kind of behavior, but Perrath wasn't any standard draken. She was on a true quest to seek approval from the one who meant most to her, and she could relate in more ways then one.
"The Legate, will accept it for what it is. Without your efforts, this wouldn't have even been possible at all, so I highly doubt he'll be completely irrational."
Perrath gave no response and leaned on the console, her eyes starting to droop. Razeth licked her snout before pressing a wing against the slumping draken's flank.
"Go get some rest Perrath, you've been up longer then I was. I'll keep an eye on Arus for a little while."
The drained draken blinked in surprise at the offer, her snout lowering tiredly before a deep yawn took hold, Razeth smirking in apparent victory.
"I rest my case. Get yourself to bed for a bit. I'll wait for the Legate here and report what you've told me."
Grunting in defiance, the cyan draken groaned and shook her head. "No, no I … this is my responsibility."
"Oh, enough of that! Go on, a few hours won't hurt you!" chuckled Razeth while nudging her snout into the draken's neck plates.
Perrath took a deep breath and just sighed. "Oh, very well … I would expect Xalanth to return any moment. If the connection comes back online please retrieve me immediately."
Razeth nodded before bumping Perrath again, offering a friendly smile towards her new companion. Perrath responded with a soft nod, her limbs weakly carrying her towards the leisure quarters. The electric green draken tilted her head and observed the capsule quietly.
"Hey, Raz." called Perrath.
"Yeah?"
"Thank you." whispered the haggard draken, her head not budging as she vanished down the metal corridor.
Razeth felt satisfaction swelling within her. No matter what happened in this traitorous fortress, she truly hoped that Perrath would find some manner of closure and happiness.
Left alone with her thoughts. Razeth began to wander, her vision falling over many various instruments and mechanized contraptions that she had no understanding of. The light, pulsing rhythm of the time bridge had finally slowed to a more standard pace.
She began to think that this pulse was in some manner representing Arus. A scientist, she was not, but it made enough sense to her.
"Like a heartbeat .." she whispered before continuing her pacing sheepishly. The eyes of the Avocati bore down upon her, though she did the best she could to pretend they didn't exist. Finally growing bored, she laid herself upon one of the various cushions that were provided for viewing comfort.
The blank screen crackled every now and then, but that was the extent of the action at this point. She found herself quite upset about missing the fight. Even if Arus had somehow forgotten his skills, he seemed like the type who would be quite fierce in a brawl.
A small buzz on her wrist got her attention, but she pretended otherwise thanks to unwanted exposure. This particular comm link was of a far more sensitive nature, something she couldn't afford to be caught addressing in this open location.
Grunting to herself, she remained in place for several minutes, doing the best she could to not appear suspicious. The vibration came again and again. She frowned in disappointment and continue to sit, content to let a few more moments pass.
When they did, she rose up and proceeded towards the relief chambers. The Avocati eyed her the entire way. As she made for the hallway, the Robe beside the exit stepped in front of her, impeding her advance.
" Unit 945: Legate Xalanth's orders, one member of operational party is to remain present at all times. No exceptions."
Razeth sneered as the cyborg spoke, forcing herself to respond. "Well, maybe a lady has needs? Not something a canner like you would understand."
"Unit 945: Recognize behavioral speech pattern: Sarcasm – a common retort stemmed from living emotions: anger, impatience, nervousness, self doubt. Unit 945 will gladly summon Legate Xalanth or subject: Perrath, if relief is truly a necessity."
"Enough! Forget it," snarled Razeth, turning around quickly and allowing her tail to smack the cyborg. The buzz on her wrist continued, but their was nothing she could do at this point. They would have to figure it out for themselves.
Resting her body back on the cushion, she laid her snout upon lithe forelimbs, wings stretching as she stared at the blank screen. Hopefully, she wouldn't have to sit here contemplating the nature of right and wrong much longer.
The small red bulb continued to blink at a constant rate, dark purple orbs falling upon it with a sense of impatience. The small, circular chamber was lined with all manner of electrical equipment. A red drake of fantastic build sighed and hovered over a circular holocaster in the middle of the bunker.
"Consul Marcus, we're continuing to receive her signal, but there's no response." spoke a cheetah dressed in a dark variation of tactical uniform.
"Odds are very good that she's simply under Avocati surveillance. She may be unable to respond at this time." stated a lion decked in similar garb.
The drake nodded and walked around the holocaster, the images tuned into various news outlets and other media flows throughout the Praxus Empire.
"Yes, it seems she may be unable to help us at this point. We may have to proceed with our contingency plan." responded the drake, eyeing a nearby comm panel. The heat in the room was quite unbearable, even by dragon standards, sweat readily dripping from his scales.
"Marcus."
His eyes turned, gaze falling upon a black draken. "Yes, Prefect?"
The smooth draken sighed and stepped towards the Consul, frame barely illuminated by the various computer screens. "Were you unable to reach her?"
He could only nod softly, his neutral eyes looking her over. "I'm sure she's fine, but it would be most helpful if she could get some information to us. I don't want to play our hand this early, unless no other alternative is available to us."
The draken's shoulders slumped in obvious disappointment before sliding forward, the Consul bowing his head deeply in respect, her delicate frame now basking in more fluent light sources.
"I agree, perhaps we should wait longer before potentially endangering her." stated the draken.
His eyes tilted somewhat; one of the nearby cheetahs observing numerous street level cameras. "You are thinking out of emotion, Euriza. I understand what Razeth means to you, but this is about more then just one dragon. You know this."
She shook her head and bore a firm expression. "No, Marcus, the entire reason so many choose you is because you're not like Kalog. We all may be in this together, but is that sacrifice truly worth it if we leave a trail of bodies behind us?"
The red drake growled and pressed his paw into her shoulder, causing her to flinch. "I will always be true to what I represent – what I want this Empire to represent, but you must grow to understand the reality of what's around us. We are alone, Euriza, surrounded by countless enemies. More and more fall under Kalog's influence every day, and I fear that if we don't act soon it will be too late."
The Prefect took in his words before pushing away from the contact, disappointment further evident as the drake softened his gaze – Euriza's eyes drifting back over her shoulder.
"The darkness is always most intense just before the dawn, but I truly pray by the twin moons that you don't lose your way before we bathe in it."
With that, the black draken departed, leaving the red drake in a state of mental conflict. The cheetah and lion eyed him, causing the Consul to reprimand them. "Mind your panels! Patch me through to field operative Silas."
"At once, Consul."
The holocaster readjusted itself, a heavy tone screeching in static before the image began to formulate, the face of a masked individual being the result.
"Agent Silas, reporting sir." came a garbled voice.
"Silas, I'm afraid that the time has come to get a closer look. Our primary method of information is currently locked from us, and who knows if she's taken measures to prevent discovery."
"Understood , Consul, shall I set up an extraction?"
The red drake raised his eyeridges and shook his head. "No, unless you can find firm evidence that she's been compromised, but I hardly think that would be the scenario. Instead, I want you to focus on data transfer."
"I understand and will comply. I have been in observation of the compound for some weeks now. The Avocati are crawling all over it – getting in unseen will be time consuming, and only two reliable data points exist."
Marcus lowered his head and gathered his thoughts. This would be very risky. "Yes, I'm afraid you won't be able to access the device itself, you will have to infiltrate the Legate's personal records."
"In his personal quarters? Understood, Consul."
"How many times have I told you, Silas, no titles."
"Duly noted, sir." responded the masked entity.
Marcus just nodded and licked his lower snout, one limb grabbing a nearby data pad. "I would wager you'd be able to successfully infiltrate via the service ducts, but just in case, I am transferring protocols necessary for access to your key cards. You know the drill. If you are captured … well …"
"Silas never existed, sir. I understand my duty and readily accept all conditions."
The Consul half-smiled and nodded firmly. "I know you do, that's why you're the best I've got. Avoid fatalities unless you are forced. You have the green light."
"Acknowledged, sir, Agent Silas out."
The image faded out as Marcus began syncing his data pad, the cheetah turning his head and removing an earpiece."
"Sir, Consul Kalog is requesting your presence in a special Senate session the day after next. If you do not report, he is threatening to have you exiled or executed."
Marcus just chuckled and rubbed the sweat from his snout. "I would expect nothing less from him."
A shadowy figure bounced from one rooftop to another. His limbs were covered in a heavy exoskeleton bio suit – a pair of cybernetic gauntlets and boots providing limb support. The visor peeled over his face masked any manner of emotion or weakness, further supported by black electronic goggles.
The green orbs rotated erratically as he further adjusted his stealth pattern. Lifting his arm quickly, he took aim and launched a grappling hook towards a nearby passing shuttle, hitching a ride through the seemingly endless chasms of neon light shows. Two disconnected pieces of weaponry were stored away in the backpack latched to his spine – while a hidden sheath on his lower right leg housed a serrated mag-cutter.
His goggles identified the next destination, and he wasted no time as the shuttle passed over an empty roof. Releasing the grappling hook, he fell downward some twenty meters, landing upon the structure with a controlled thud.
Leaping towards the opposite edge of the structure, he removed the two separated pieces of precision striking technology from his back, connecting them together to reveal a compact long-shot sniper rifle.
Gazing through the scope, his gaze fell upon one specific structure that stood out against the skyline, several skylights illuminating it further – making for the perfect intimidation visage the Empire so eagerly encouraged.
"Target located, Legate Xalanth's personal compound: The Citadel. Agent Silas, proceeding on mission. Results imminent."
A/N: Fun chapter to write as it gave a great opportunity to introduce a few more characters and also show what Arus might truly be capable of. Always nice to bruise Scorch's ego a tad as well! Korryana is one of my new characters, and I really wanted to try a take on water dragons since they don't seem to be represented all that often in this universe.
Arus is just continuing to dig quite a massive hole for himself, hopefully he can find a way to climb back out before it's too late. Also having some fun building a futuristic world while applying ancient elements to it, as I've always found a blend of past and future to be the most fun when it comes to stories. Next update should be around the same timetable unless something drastic happens. Hope everyone is having a good new year so far and enjoys the story.
Until next time … Cya!
Fun History: Consul – Highest elected political office during the Roman Republic. Two Consuls would be elected together to serve one years terms, thus the term Co-Consuls. An effective way of managing power until the late Republic when Generals with armies began appropriating more power for themselves through military force. A Proconsul: was a Consul who had received direct power to command an army by virtue of the Senate, typically during states of emergency.
My Characters: Arus, Scorch, Terradon, Korryana, Sampson, Crastor, Solarana, Razeth, Perrath, Xalanth, Euriza, Marcus, Kalog, Silas, Unit: 945