The Chronicles of the White Dragon Part 2: The Crossroads of Time

by Blackshadow999

When things of history thought lost begin to be seen once more; fear grips many, none can choose how events will turn out in the end. What is left from an ancient war is rediscovered by Saber, but he finds more than he bargained for. An enemy long forgotten returns! and intends to finish wha they started. A tale traversing and transcending even the bounds of time itself. Part 2of3

18. 18 Ripples in Life

A/n

FINALLY, I FINISHED THIS CHAPTER! Okay, in this chapter you will notice that my writing style has changes slightly. While writing another of my stories, IS Hidden Trump, I found that the flow of my writing seems to work better with me writing speech and then saying who it is talking. Now this chapter, is a bit of a 'filler' but it covers a bit of a time period so that it sets up for advancing the story. Enough from me I say, on with the story!

Chapter 18: Ripples in Life

-recap-

"Nox, are you alright."

The white cheetah looked at Hunter, then took a much longer look at me. I stood still and let him take in my appearance.

"Yes, I am fine."

His voice was somewhat low and almost toneless, which is unusual in the dragon realm that I have heard. By the body language I was reading from Nox was kind of confusing; it was giving double messages and meanings. One the one paw, he was controlling reacting towards the cheetahs had treated him and yet, he was also brushing off the actions against him as nothing to be concerned about. The latter was the stronger part I was getting rather than the former. Nox just sniffed at me and didn't say anything to me; though I clearly brought something up in his mind, but I can't say what it is. Now I'm starting to wonder, is fate either paying a call or preparing to do so? One thing is for certain, the storm I came back from may be done, but there is likely another on its way… I just don't know when it will hit.

-Present time-

I have heard it said once, life is like a box of assorted candy, such as chocolates as an example to go with… anyways, what I'm getting at is that you can't be certain what you're going to get when picking at random without looking. When events come in life, rare is it that you get any choice to look or know what we get; it would be nice, but it isn't going to happen. This fact is a difficulty for everyone, as such it's much harder and worse for me… Fate allies with my bad luck to make certain that I don't have things easy in my life. Yet, I digress in my story… Sorry, allow me to return to my tale.

Now then, it's been about two months since I had met the cheetah Nox, a very different cheetah from those I have met previously. He didn't seem to be a bad cheetah or one to worry about, but me, being myself, I'm suspicious of others due to past experiences until given reason to assume otherwise. I would see the white cheetah appear a few times, though no one else seemed to take notice that he was there when he was. Nox had shown that he, like myself, to be skilled at making oneself not be noticed by those around you. It's a very handy skill to have in your arsenal, let me assure you!

The next event of note that happened during the last two months, was the rare sight of Spyro not seeing much of Cynder. After getting to talk to Spyro, he said that she had laid an egg, which was why I didn't see her and answers my curiosity I had, namely the timeframe of gravid periods with dragonesses. By the information and observations with Cynder and Spyro, they're shorter than human pregnancies, doesn't help me very much by information is still facts that I know. Due to that event, Spyro and Cynder 'moved out' of the dragon temple and into the city, Spyro seems to like the move, probably because he isn't getting the attention from others, … And for some reason, Lara and I were 'moved in' to the room that they vacated. Apparently, the guardians finally figured out that Lara and I were together as mates… Just took them around a year… you would think that they would have noticed earlier… Just saying.

I'm happy for both Spyro and Cynder for the 'bundle of joy' that they had made and are waiting for it to come into the world as the egg needs some more time to 'cook'… well, I can't help but be happy for them. Although, I may not look like I am, really I'm happy for the two who are my friends I can assure you. There is a reason for me not looking overjoyed for my two friends. My justification… there's a high possibility, if not more a guarantee, that I'll be facing the same event that they are at some point soon. Lara's mating season had ended a few weeks after meeting Ignitus, yet not before we… Bonded and copulated a number more times… And that number wasn't all that small. Got to say that the dragoness can be very enthusiastic in showing affection to me when she wishes to.

Anyways, what I'm saying is it's entirely possible for her to be gravid, though no signs have shown… Yet at least. That doesn't mean that she isn't gravid, but I'm not so presumptuous as to think I'm lucky, my bad luck hasn't paid me a call for a time. My luck is too reliable for me to get out of trouble often when I do. It's not that I don't want to do the activities that are done by couples behind closed doors with Lara, because those activities are amazing beyond the ability for words to describe. No, the offspring result is what's haunting and stressing me out! Lara had made it clear she was fine… Even wanted us to have a dragonet… multiple dragonets if possible, me on the other paw, not really liking the idea at all and wouldn't mind waiting a time before that event's occurrence. Don't get me wrong, love children… as long as they aren't mine! I'm scared that a child that has me as a parent, will have a life that'll be hell like mine has been… and no child deserves that!

The last 'event' that happened in the two-month period that comes to mind, was what was supposed to be a simple and light discussion among friends… Certainly didn't end that way…

-Flashback-

Today was a sunny day, nothing going wrong… which should be what tells me that the day would soon be rocked. Was with those I knew from Earth, meaning; Chizuru, Sen and Sera. Now that I think about it, has been a bit of time since I have gotten to spend time with all three of them, they kind are my posse. I've been busy with other things, you know; going off on treks, exploring mysterious places and lands and being the dragon guardians' errand runner… Oh, and staying alive while another was seriously trying to kill me! But peace has been restored… Well, at least for the moment and I'll take that while I can.

For privacy for the four of us, we came to a stop in one of the mid-tier gardens, the point of this was so that we could catch up with each other and hopefully all be on the same page. It was kind of nostalgic to be together with the three who spent their time around me back on Earth. The major difference in this instance, Sen and I were dragons, where Chizuru and Sera were still human… Or look like it anyway. Chizuru was, according to her, a kitsunè which really do exist. Sera… Not a clue with her, she may look like a human being, but I have often wondered if she wasn't something else that I just haven't guessed.

Once we had sat down and settled, I assumed and figured that I was going to have to be the head speaker as I normally am. "So… I already know how Chizuru got here as she told me and Sen… Attempted to explain how he arrived here… didn't do too well at making sense. That just leaves…" I turned to face Sera, "You Sera, how might you have gotten here… Or is it better not to ask?"

Sera gained a pouting look, "Moi! You all disappear, leaving me all by myself! I don't like being alone!" Bawled the black haired girl, then just as quickly as she pouted and bawled, she suddenly looked extremely happy and cheerful, "So, I wished to go where you all have gone, then after wishing to do so, I appeared here! It's so absolutely amazing that I just can't contain myself!"

After saying that, Sera pounced at me, which horrified me for good reason and past experience do provide me. At the same time, I felt impacts on both sides while Sera flew through the air as she lunged at me. The one on the left was bigger and if the red is anything to go by, was Sen being thrust into my side by some unseen force. Then on my right it was Chizuru being sent into my side by the same unseen force that was acting on Sen. Seconds after Sen and Chizuru impacted into me, Sera reached us and circled her arms around all three of us in a kind of group hug type of motion. Now, the gesture of an embrace or hugging itself isn't bad, yet when it comes from Sera, it's a very painful experience at a bare minimum. The girl doesn't know her own strength, it's outright ridiculous and monstrous, not something you want squeezing you! Chizuru and I were groaning under the pressure Sera was putting us under, Sen was making his voice heard, "Yo Sera, ease up girl! You're gonna cause a total wipeout for us all, dudette!"

Our friend didn't listen to Sen… didn't really expect her to, Sera rarely does. Well, guess that means that it's time to take matters into my own paws! We needed to be released for this hold that was hurting us and the sooner better! Forced my head to point at Sera, "Don't… Take this… Personally Sera." I gasped out before letting lose the rest of the air in me out in the form of a strong stream of wind focused in the direction of Sera.

The burst of wind had the desired effect and got Sera to loosen her hold. The second that happened I shouted "SCATTER!" the three of us who had been trapped within the embrace were quick to separate so it would be harder to get us back in the group hug position that Sera loves so much. The voice of Chizuru was able to get us back on task, "Sera, focus on the conversation right now and not your interest in giving us your version of a 'group hug'." She said.

Sera thankfully listened to Chizuru, she's more likely to listen to Chizuru than either Sen or myself. However, Sera didn't focus on the point at paw without a final comment, "Oh… Okay fine, I just wanted to squeeze you all to show how much I care." Commented Sera in a pout.

I gave the black haired girl a deadpanned look that said to pay attention, "Your 'care' Sera, could very well kill us someday, or at least seriously injure the lot of us… Probably cripple us in the end." I stated, "Now then, perhaps you could tell us how it is you can use magic… As far as I know, human beings don't have the ability naturally?"

Chizuru nodded in agreement to my question, likely wanting an answer as much as I do. Sen… Well, was being himself in the ways he does, says what he thinks, "Whoa bro! You saying that Sera like totally used magic dude?" Sen exclaimed.

I nodded in answer, Sen plopped to the ground, "Major bummer man, Sera doin magic… That's totally righteous bro. Would've love to see that dude, like takin in killer waves breaking on a beach before you goin surfin man. Come on, you feel me bro don't ya?"

Staring flatly at the red dragon I replied, "Well, seeing Sera doing magic was quite something, but that's not exactly the point." Turning back to Sera, I continued, "So then Sera, you know the reason that you can do magic or whatever it was you did, or is it just because it's you?"

Our black haired girl smiled, spun around in a circle and spread her arms out like she's… Great… Not this again! "How can I do magic you ask? Why, because I'm a magical girl of course!"

Couldn't help myself with doing the spit take that I did, was involuntary especially with Sera doing what she was. As stated before now, Sera is into Cosplay and everything that is associated with it, to the point that it goes beyond be an obsession. Her action is a prime example, she acts like she's performing for an audience and even goes with a cliché! It was the voice of Chizuru that broke the awkward silence, "Sera, there is no such thing as a magical girl, that's a staple from Japanese anime. There are those who can use magic, such as witches, wizards and the like, but no magical girls." Remarked Chizuru flatly.

… Okay, not to say that the subject matter of Chizuru's comment isn't as interesting as it is enlightening, yet the original question still stands unanswered. "Can we all be serious for at least a moment please?!" I interjected, then I turned to face Sera again, "My original question still stands Sera, how is it that you can use magic?"

Sera's smile drooped a bit, "Fine, magic is a natural ability with those who have demonic power flowing in them." She said.

"Demonic dudette?" queried Sen.

"That explains a few things, though with demonic energies, I assume that you're a devil then Sera." Piped up Chizuru.

That statement took me by complete surprise, more due to the implications that came with it. I stared in notable shock, before finding use of my voice, "Wait wait… wait for a dang moment Sera! Let me get this straight, you're a devil, like the ones you would read about in the big book, you know, THE Bible?" I asked.

Sera nodded, "Yup!"

I sighed, paused and then continued, "Okay, since this is you Sera, I'll take your word for it. Next question…" I paused for a moment at the thought of how ludicrous this question I was about to ask actually was, "Is there 'the devil'? As in like, a Satan or leader of the idea? You know, the boss, the big Kahuna, the big cheese or something like that?" I inquired.

Sera regained her broad smile, "Well of course there is silly, why wouldn't there be?" she stated without hesitation.

My posture slumped starting with my shoulders, "I take it then, if the devil does exist, then so does that big man upstairs, you know, head of heaven, the one that many call God and all that." I posed.

Sera nodded in answer. I fell to my underbelly with my head touching the ground with all the contained emotion, for I had many feelings at the facts that I had just learned. The first, was outright shock; I mean, come on, who wouldn't be reeling at finding out that two of the most prominent figures in religion, specifically from the bible are real. Second, understanding that Sera, the girl I've known for years, isn't human even if she looks like one… could explain her monstrous strength that she had. Those two feelings were just the start of the emotions that coursed through me as I took in the information. Felt a hand on my shoulder and lifting while twisting my head and neck around to identifying who the hand belonged to, I saw Chizuru. "Are you feeling okay Saber?" She asked.

"Yes, I think so." My voice shook slightly as I answered, "Just taking in the fact that the ones I tend to blame for the frequent bad circumstances that come to me, do actually exist." I said in a bit of a sad tone.

Chizuru smirked slightly, "And will that change?" She asked.

That one simple question, wiped away the emotional deluge that had been going through me and I felt calm and at peace, "Not in the slightest. If anything, knowing that those two actually exist, it will fuel and spur me on to pin the blame on them even more!" I stated loudly with pride.

Funny enough, the reactions of the other two were not exactly what I expected. Sera cheered, Sen was going off about me making a stand. … Oh the people and types that I attract to me, isn't it wonderful? I'm so glad to be alive right now!

-Flashback end-

That talk with those that I knew before coming back to the dragon realm, had been… Enlightening yet, also kind of disappointing as well. There are a lot of mixed feelings with the information about Sera that had come to light. I mean, I know that Sera is strange as a person, still a good person, just different. I would know what that's like as that's the story of my life in a nutshell.

So, enough with the catch up with events in my life, on to the present. Once again, for whatever reason, which I have never figured out or understood, I'm likely going to be the dragon guardians' errand boy… again… At least they call for me to meet with them and they have never done so for just a chat; that in mind, I doubt that's changed. Will my life ever settle down enough for me to experience a healthy modicum of peace? … (Sigh)like that would ever happen for me, not while my luck has any say at all in the matter, and it does and probably will for however long I live.

Well… Anyways, I'm currently on the way to the meeting with the guardian who I don't get along well with. By what I was told, it would be just myself in attendance to start out, but apparently there would be others later or so I'm told. From this, two reasons come to mind; first is this will be some type of session to reprimand me for something that I did that I can either not recall or don't consider a problem to worry about. The other reason logically speaking, were I to go with past experience… Especially the recent pieces, they had something they wanted me to do for them. Honestly, both reasons sound like a load of malarkey in my opinion, yet rarely is my view and opinion heard or taken into account by others. But still, I find myself heading to the council chamber, not for the sole reason of the guardians calling for me, because I really couldn't care less about what they thought of me. But more so, that I could get this out of the way and get it over, with the least amount of complaint.

In what seemed to be no time at all, I reached the double doors that led to the council chamber. I exhaled in minor annoyance before breathing in and knocking on the door and waiting for a response. The doors opened shortly after I tapped on them and saw that it had been Solara that had opened the doors. I entered, begrudgingly so, the council chamber, while Solara took her place again in the lineup the guardians take in this chamber. Upon my coming in, a few things instantly came to my attention; first of which was that all eight of the guardians were in attendance… Unexpected. Next point of interest, the blue dragon I had met months ago, who is known in the dragon realm as 'The Chronicler' named Ignitus, was also present. Third and most noticeable point, the atmosphere in the room, it was tense, with a capitol 'T'. So… Either I'm about to get royally chewed out about something, or this is about something serious that I have no clue about. I can't think of anything that would bring about this kind of mood with the guardians. Granted, I might not understand the DOs and DON'Ts when it comes to the guardians, but I'm certainly not so dumb and blind to not be able to read any of these adult dragons and dragonesses enough to know when I cross a line enough to get this kind of response!

I put up my guard and defenses as I continued into the room, the further in I went the heavier the tense feel became. It wasn't setting well with me, how it felt in this place… It was putting me on edge to a serious extent and I don't like it at all! The thing that was surprising me the most that none would see or know, the voices that I was coming to know as white dragons and dragoness who had already existed and had passed on before now, they were quiet… Not one of them were speaking. It was eerie for them to be near silent, I had gotten used to hearing some of them constantly in the back of my mind, don't always understand what they're saying, but still could hear them. Now there was complete silence in my mind, I haven't had that for getting close to two years, since turning back into a dragon. Yes, I have craved it, but never obtained it no matter the effort I have exerted. So, it's weird to not have the voices whispering to me… Normally, just random crap to me, but still I'm accustom to the whispering now.

Reached the center of the room and came to a halt, faced the guardians and Ignitus, then waited for them to open the conversation. Ignitus, once he saw me, smiled and then spoke, "Ah, it is good that you made it young dragon." He said.

I inclined my head slightly as a way of answer to the greeting, but I didn't open my maw just yet. Not to say it isn't a nice change to be welcomed, but with the atmosphere in the chamber… I was keeping my peace. Don't see a reason to make a sound until I had an impression of what this was all about, then I'll make my view known… Whether the guardians want to hear it or not.

So, I sat down on my buttock and listened to the conversation that began or resumed between the guardians and Ignitus. Over the next ten minutes, I gained a new found respect for the dragon Ignitus. Why might one ask? Let's just say there are those beings who make leadership and all it requires look simple and easy… Ignitus is one of those beings. I mean, the guy was a pro, even I can't deny that without blatantly lying! He guided the guardians, held their attention as the discussion they were having and stopped arguments before they developed into too much of an issue. The discussion was about an 'event'… Never actually heard what the event was or why it's so important, but I assume, by the bits and pieces I did take in, that I was here because of this event whatever it was and for whatever reason that I might be able to change it. Although, as I kept watching, I'm reminded that I don't like to be told what to do, which these dragons in front of me. … You know, I'm beginning to wish that the guardians would be a little more like Ignitus, would solve so many problems if you ask me.

When the communion or whatever you want to call the discussion the guardians and Ignitus were having while I was here… Rather rude to talk on a subject they plan to involve me in like I'm not there. Once done chatting to each other, they all turned to me with expectant looks. I've not made any sound other than my own breathing and those I doubt have been noticed over the talking that's been going on. … As I have stated before now, I don't like being the center of attention and that hasn't changed in the slightest since I got to the dragon realm. Shifted my weight between my paws, not liking the stares I was receiving, was bothering me quite a bit as the guardians seemed to think I knew what they were talking about. Breathed in deeply to give my reply, "Okay, so I take that you all staring at me means that whatever it is your talking about, is something you want me involved in?" I posed.

There were motions of affirmatives and accent to my question, I sighed in slight irritation, "Well then, what is this event that you have been discussing among one another? I have not gotten that bit of information and I would think that would be kind of important." I said.

"Well young dragon, there is to be a meeting convened a week from today; in this meeting, representatives from each of the races of the realm will be present." Replied Ignitus.

A meeting with representatives for each race here in the dragon realm? Well, that's nice and everything… Hold on… they aren't considering me to be the one to represent the dragon race, now are they? … That's stupid! They can't be serious thinking that I would be a good and sound candidate to stand for dragons! Granted, the guardians have shown that they don't always think things completely through before now, but come on! I'm the last one to consider for this type of thing! Would have expected them to pick Neval to do this; he's their golden student, their 'poster child', much more a fit for this, not me. In fact, that's what came out of my maw, "Wait one second, you are not… Seriously thinking of sending me to represent dragons as a race, are you?" I spouted.

"Yes, we are." Came the voice I had least expected it to come from.

Swinging my head to gaze at Terrador, who had just given the answer to my question, to which I simply stared. When you bring to mind the times I have disagreed with the guardians… Male guardians usually, wouldn't expect them to have a like or love of me, with the things I've done that clearly goes against their views. However, as my sight swept across the faces of the other guardians, I saw that me being the one was agreed upon between them. … Why… Oh why, does this happen to me?! Why is it that I'm the one that others believe and depend on to solve the problems they have?!

My eyes roll as I addressed the dragons and dragonesses as a whole group, "Have not a clue why you would even for a second consider me for this kind of job, does not fit my skill set or with my views and personality at all. Not good with discussing things with others in a calm manner; would make a horrible mediator, am way too blunt and sarcastic." I said, then paused to decide whether I should just spit out what was really on my mind. … Why the heck not? "My skills tend to do better with defying nigh impossible odds and kicking a** while doing so and coming out alive, where other would not. Now, why would you lot, knowing that choose me to represent dragons in this conference?"

To say that I was downright curious would be an understatement; of all those the guardians could choose, why would they pick me? It was Ignitus that replied to my question, "Because, you have shown yourself to be able to rise to whatever challenge or difficulty that you face and come out of it better for the experience. Where the events that you get into, other dragons and dragonesses would shy away from, you face them. That attitude is what is needed now, but you will not be going alone, there will be others with you."

Great… After having that stuff said about me, it's hard to say no to what they're asking. It's not that I couldn't say no to the point, but something tells me that I wouldn't have it easy if I did. Then… They're not done convincing me of going yet I would bet… This just isn't fair to me! Haven't I had enough trouble for the time being?! Is it too much to ask for a continuing peaceful break from problems in my life, have been experiencing a nice and well deserved break to wind down from the last attempt at killing me by the ancient enemy months ago for the ancestors' sakes! You don't just get over an event like that with a good night's rest, which I don't normally get anyways. Yes, I'm alive and happy to be so, but I'm not completely dumb to think that there won't be another attempt on me in my future. From the two encounters with the ancient enemy, it was made perfectly clear that there would be only two ways that it would end between them and me; either they die… If that's possible… Really hope it is, or they without doubt kill me.

Then there are supposed to be others traveling with me, are there? Who would want to go with me to something like this conference. Sounds more like crap waiting to happen, more than anything else in my view. Managed to contain my true thoughts and only let out a sigh, "Okay fine, for the moment I will not say no, but I still keep the choice to do so if I see a viable reason to. So, tell me more about this meeting or conference, haven't gotten much detail as of yet." I got out, the more information the better as I always say.

"I think that all of us would like to know that." Said a voice behind me.

I spun around and saw that Spyro, who had spoken was standing there. Just behind him, was Seth, Neval, the cheetah Hunter and Chizuru. … Wait, are they going to be the said traveling companions that were briefly mentioned? … I'm getting a really BAD feeling about this developing, especially with Spyro and me going on the same trip… Nearly got killed the last jaunt we were together on. But then, that was the case as well on the trek before that, so doesn't make much of a difference I guess. I turned back to the guardians and Ignitus giving them my attention. Ignitus continued on and started giving details about this conference. Apparently, the meeting would involve members of cheetah tribes, some moles… And unexpectedly, even representatives from the apes. That bit of information about apes attending, worried me somewhat, it would really be dependent on whether it would be apes, which I doubt, or more likely a monkey or more than one of them. The memories had shown me that there had been a time, during the great war when the apes worked with the other races. By what I could understand thus far, it was around the time of Malefor going bad, that the apes changed to how they are currently. Overall in the end, I admit… I caved in… They cohered me into agreeing to go to this conference… I'm just too nice for my only good at times like this!

-Scene Change-

By the time the 'meeting' had come to a close, it was early evening and so, that meant only one thing… Dinnertime! … Hey don't judge me; I'm a healthy male that likes every one of the three customary square meals most expect on an average day. Plus, I needed something that isn't out of the ordinary to help settle the mix of thoughts, chaotic and those that are less so. Such a thing is done better on a full and content stomach, which dinner provided. After satisfying my stomach, decided that it would be in my best interest to find a place to do some thinking and not have others around while doing so, that's why I found myself in part of the dragon temple's garden. I looked around the section of the garden seeing trees and bushes, but what caught my attention was a sheltered grove like area that fit what I wished for at the moment. So, walked forward, and sat myself down within the grove and began to go over the many thoughts running through my mind.

The question I have to ask myself, where do I start? The conference I guess would be the best place. If I were to state, my honest opinion and views on the upcoming event that I learned of today… Well then, I highly doubt most would like to hear them. First thought had entered my mind when I got the overall facts can be said in the simple phrase, 'this sounds like a disaster waiting to blow up'. If this convention was just Cheetahs, Moles and dragons, then I wouldn't think so badly of the idea. But with the apes involved, that changes the whole 'playing field' in quite a few ways that I can see. It's possible that the apes wish to change things for the better for them, though history would have me leaning more towards doubting that. So, I stand by my opinion, this feels like a disaster waiting to happen and blow up. … And yet, I agree to go and represent the dragon race… What was I thinking?! I don't know why I said yes… Though it was begrudgingly, but still…

"Ah, I did not expect to find any around here." Said a male voice.

I swung my head around and came face to face with Ignitus. … Well, hadn't expected any to come around here… Especially, Ignitus. "What might you be doing here young dragon?" Asked Ignitus.

"Oh, taking time to think, a lot of things were brought up today that were not on my mind yesterday. I do my best thinking when I am alone and am not surrounded by others who will have the habit of asking questions interrupting my thinking process." Was my answer to Ignitus.

However, now that I think about it, I've some questions for this dragon, whom is supposed to be the 'historian' and 'recorder of events' in this place. For he might be in the position to know the answers to some pressing inquires I have. Plus, Ignitus, by what I have been able to tell, knows the guardians better than me and could explain to me a few things. Since it's just Ignitus and me, I don't think I could ask for a better opportunity to perhaps get answers. "Say Ignitus, would mind if I ask you a couple of questions?" I posed.

"Not at all young dragon, a curious mind is a wonderful thing to possess." He answered me as he dropped to his haunches.

Took a moment to organize my thoughts, mostly as I don't want to come off as a… oh what's the best way to put it? … An instigator of rebellion against authority… No, that's what I tend to come off as when I'm being sarcastic. One that stands for a desperate outcry for change… Still not what I'm going for. Although, if I wanted to put it nicely… and I do as this applies to me, a pessimistic realist that thinks ahead of what possibilities are likely to happen… probably better to say, a promoter of free individualistic thinking. Take your pick of which way you wish to say the way I can be viewed by others. Once I was able to gather myself together, I spoke my first question, "Feel free to correct me if I am wrong, but the guardians… well, they do not seem to be completely competent in the job that they are 'supposed' to be doing."

I paused trying to decide how to express what I saw wrong with how the dragon guardians do things is wrong… without say that they don't appear to know what they're doing about half the time… or rather that they miss what should be clearly obvious. "I do not believe anyone can be absolutely competent in what they do young dragon. After all, no being is perfect or unable to make mistakes." Ignitus replied calmly.

… that's a good point… granted, I may put the guardians to a higher standard than others, but as leaders that many look to, they have to be held to a standard above what others are held. "I would not disagree with you upon that, yet, from different events I have seen and experienced, I would also say that the guardians are going more with tradition than what is best for those they lead. An example of the idea, not too long after arriving at Warfang…" I began.

Then I went into the tale of learning about Ruben and what he had been sent to do and had gone missing in the process. From what impressions I got from the guardians later, they had no plan to send anyone to save those they were wishing to save or the one they sent to do so. When I had inquired as to what the guardians planned to do to rectify the problem of Ruben and those he had gone to look for. They hadn't really answered my questioning, but I have come to expect that from them now. Then when two others along with myself go and do the job and succeed, what may I ask was their reaction? Not a single thank you from those in Warfang or job well done; what we got was how what we did was so wrong. Did not look at the results of the trek… never mind that the ones we saved were two guardians like them, just chastised us for what went down. I ended with asking Ignitus to justify how that was alright. Okay… maybe my ranting and reaming on some of the guardians was a little much, but that was just one example I was going through.

To my surprise, Ignitus listened to me and didn't interrupt me while I stated what I thought of many of the guardians, how they did things and their justifications of their reasoning. It certainly gained respect from me, by what Spyro said, Ignitus was the leader of the guardians before he… 'died'… which doesn't make a lot of sense to me. Yes, I know that I should understand the idea, having been to the Ethereal Archives where all there are 'dead' yet are still 'alive', but I still don't fully get that either! Although, I can believe that Ignitus is still alive somehow due to the experience with the archives.

"I will not deny that the guardian, could be seen as you have stated. However young dragon, where it is clear that you understand what skills are required to look after yourself, the guardians' duty is to watch over many dragons, cheetahs and moles. They need to think of the needs of the many and at times hard choices must be made. It is likely that in the event that you talked about, none could be sent due to the risks that were present." Said Ignitus.

… I guess that might have been the case… still that doesn't really excuse the unnecessary reprimand that Seth, Cyra and I had received when we got back. I mean, I wouldn't have as much of an issue with the guardians (cough) male ones (cough) were it just disapproval of actions. It's when they chew out and 'beat the dead horse' home of how wrong an action is, while completely ignoring the outcome of the said actions, that's where my beef comes in.

"I understand that the guardians are to look out for the needs of the many that look to them, and that system is a fairly good one to use for managing things. Suppose the point I am making is that they bind themselves so much by 'tradition' that they cannot seem to see that a result, no matter the method it is obtained is still a result. There is more than one way to get a result that is desired. It is up to those who do the work that choose which way that a task is done, not those who tell them how it should be done. The older guardians do not appear to understand that point, hence why they and I do not tend to get along." I replied.

Ignitus smile at my reply and for some reason it irked me to a degree, probably because I had just said one of the major reasons that I don't get along with the guardians and Ignitus, a former guardian reacted with a smile. "Your view is a valid one, however, for one to be in a position of leadership does not mean that one is any less a student that has much learning to do." Returned Ignitus.

He had said it… one of the few lines that had a profound effect on me that most don't. It was a line that Master Kai had taught me the real meaning of while I had been at the dojo, but have a tendency to forget to apply to others at times. No one, not one person, is ever done learning; the second one believes that they are done, is the time they will fail and shown just how much they still have to be taught. It's a life lesson that I have learned many times and will learn many times in future and I know it. … Dang it! Why does he just have to say one of the few lines that I can't deny or argue against?! I let out a huff, "That is unfair for use that line… one of the few I cannot argue with." I muttered.

Glancing over at Ignitus and saw him looking at me with a curious look, I sighed, "What I meant to say was please continue to tell me why those who are guardians, should be so." I said flatly.

I was 'treated' to hearing two different examples of why specifically; Terrador, Cyril and Volteer are guardians that lead dragons. The first example, was the assistance in the evacuations from Warfang and other cities while Malefor was pillaging and destroying in mass. All of this at their own risk to their lives as Malefor had minions making things bad for everyone while he was doing what he was. The second instance, was later when the three defended the dragon temple and the unborn hatchling dragons. The three dragons whom I have been disagreeing with… pretty much sacrificed themselves in order to give time for Ignitus to get some of the eggs to safety, including Spyro's own egg. Admittedly, it's hard to see Terrador and the other two, doing those kind of things at times, but… maybe I've… not been looking at them in that way.

-Scene change-

What a day it had been today! First, being told that I was 'requested' to attend a huge meeting of leaders of the races in the dragon realm, which sounded much like a peace summit or something like that. I doubt it would turn out that nice, with at least one leader that would likely be there; still am surprised that the apes said they would come. If their real leader Lucrecia was the one coming… Have no idea how that will end, probably worse than if one of the silent killers come instead. I wasn't even really give the choice in my involvement; yes, technically Ignitus had said I had the option. The current 'Chronicler', was unlike most dragons I have met thus far, definitely better than the male guardians… Kind of wish they learned to do things like he Ignitus himself did. Back to me having, or really not having a choice if I wanted to not draw attention to myself… More than I already have. I wouldn't say that it was exactly mean or low of Ignitus and the other guardians to do, but it certainly doesn't sit right with me. Then with the talk with Ignitus… well that had been an eye opener in a way that I hadn't really wanted, but will accept. After all, I'm not so petty to not say that I can be wrong about others and in this case… (Sigh) Okay I was wrong about the guardians in several ways, still disagree with several of their views though.

The end of a long day, all that was left for me to do was to head to bed. I headed to the new bigger room that I shared with Lara, was on the ground floor of the temple. The room was bigger than my original room I had been given when I got to the realm and to Warfang, by a little more than double, the increased space with two living in the room is appreciated. Often Lara would just pretty much live in my room, even though it was a single room meant for one to living in. Back to the new room, there was a larger bed so now there was space for both Lara and I to lay on it and sleep comfortably. In my previous room, the bed's size had made two of us sleeping together… A bit tighter, since Lara pretty much spooned herself to me and with us like that, we took up almost the whole bed. If I rolled, I would have dropped to the floor and Lara would have followed, not the case anymore more space to work with. That doesn't mean Lara has stopped cuddling me and hugging me when she sleeps, for she still does… Every night, not that I've much against that. We also now have a private bathroom connected to the room, which at first I would've said was nothing to be excited about, since Lara had been. However, within a less than a week, I changed my tune completely and was grateful that it was there. Not that I'm ashamed or embarrassed about my appearance… Either one of them, but the peace of relaxing in your own bath… It's very nice, a mercy really!

What had surprised me, was with the private bath/wash room, Lara spent time in there every day. With her not being a morning person… Dragon, like I am; the change was unexpected. She actually got up at what I would consider a decent hour and 'clean herself up'. … Admittedly, Lara cleans up really well and beautifully, can't deny that. Normally, Lara would use the time when I do my morning routines to keep myself fit and ready; to wash up, sometimes I would walk in when I was done and find her still in there. Never will understand why females take so long in the bathroom to get themselves ready for the day. Doubt I ever will, nor do I really want to; consider the idea to be one of the mysteries of life and leave it at that. Speaking as a male, it ain't my business to know every little detail of what the female in my life does… Have enough trouble keeping track of knowing my own business and managing it.

When I arrived and entered the room, I immediate noted Lara was sitting on the bed, head lying on her forepaws. This isn't entirely new… Lara will usually wait for me when I'm out late for whatever reason I am. However, the way Lara was sitting was one she had when she did some serious thinking about a subject, something that I have observed since we became mates… and her position suggested that she was waiting for me and not so that we could just go to bed. Yet, I can't think of why my mate would be waiting for me, haven't done anything that I can recall that would get her miffed at me… Do try to avoid that the best I can. At my entry, Lara's head shot up and she focused on me. I stared at Lara, a little apprehensive, before voicing my current question. "Evening Lara, what is going on? I know I have said that you don't need to stay up and wait for me to come back to the room if I am late." I said in a cordial tone.

"Well… I was hoping to talk to you about something Saber." Replied Lara.

Hmm... Talk to me about something she says, don't know if I should be worried or happy. The conversations between Lara and myself that have happened before now, have gone both ways, good and bad. Case and point, let me take the last two 'talks' we have had. While we had been staying Carona after exploring Mistborne, following the grilling session that I had gone through where I had talked about things I hadn't wished to at all. The discussion with Lara… Hadn't been nice, and that's putting it mildly! I mean seriously, my mate had dragged me to the room we had been given, kicking and screaming along the way being done by me. Once the two of us reached the room… Well, it was clear that she had been mad and had told me many things, called me names and well… Yeah, I'll leave it at that. Then there was the other and more recent conversation with Lara, in which I had been forced to confront my… Family issues, more specifically my problems with parents. That was the 'good' one out of the two examples… Yeah I say for talking… Let's hope that this goes okay then. So… With those thoughts in mind, I don't know what way I should take Lara wanting to talk to me about something.

Seeing that Lara was waiting for my reply, I cleared my throat, "Oh, is that so? … On a particular subject I would assume? Sure… I guess." I answered.

Made my way to the bed, climbed up on it and settled into the spot on Lara's left; she leaned up against me as was evident with the feeling of her body heat that registered. Okay, hope that means that this 'talk' will be a non-bad discussion, though I could see Lara still looked a bit worried about… Something. My curiosity was growing on what subject matter could my mate… And friend, Lara is normally not like this. "So then Lara, what did you want to tell me?" I asked.

Lara's mouth was working, but no words came out. As I observed the action, it really began to create feelings of concern within me. Lara doesn't have trouble or a problem speaking her mind, she's proven that before now. The dragoness beside me, had left no doubt in my mind that if she had something to tell me, then she would come to me and say it and make sure I knew whatever it was she wanted me to know. So then, why is she having difficulty saying whatever it is she's trying to say? I moved my head closer to hers and tilted it slightly, "Lara, are you okay? You are starting to worry me with how you are acting right now. It is not like you." I said.

Lara then, looked me straight in the eye with an expression of effort plastered on her face, "Saber… I-m-vid." She said in a rush.

Okay… Heard my name, the rest was, surprisingly was said fast enough that it came through as gibberish; totally unable to understand what she said after my name. With my hearing that's fairly rare to happen, well then, let's just try this again.

"Umm… Lara, all I got was my name, you said the rest so quick that I did not get a single word. So, please tell me again what you said, yet say it slower this time so that I can take in what you are telling me. I assure you, I want to hear what you are saying, but you got to give me a chance to understand what it is you are saying." I said in a calming voice, so I could get Lara to slow down, and speak slower.

Lara calmed herself down a bit, though she still appeared very nervous about whatever she was worrying about so much. "Saber… Well, I… I…" Lara trailed off in a mumble, before she turned her head away from me.

… This is just getting weird! Now, who is this dragoness and where did she stow Lara? Rubbing her back with my right forepaw to coax her to talk to me, I tried speaking again, "Lara, I have said this times before, it is unlikely that you can say something to me and get a bad reaction. There are only a very select few subjects that can affect me in a bad way, so whatever this is about, just tell me and get this over with. I will help the best I can… With whatever this is all about; however, I cannot do that if you do not tell me." I said.

Lara… thrusted her head into her pillow and I was forced to listen to my mate mumbling into the pillow… Something. Got a few words that I could understand; ones that referred to myself and… A subject that I don't like, I think? I'll tell you, it's hard to comprehend what is being said when the one doing the talking is doing the action into a pillow that's absorbing a good amount of the sound. This is becoming annoying! I'm attempting to help Lara, be nice to her, go outside my comfort zone by my own will and choice. What might I get in response to my attempted kindness? The dragoness that says she trusts me, doesn't tell me what's worrying her. Then Lara pulled her head out of the pillow she had it in and faced me again, "I said that I am gravid!" Lara nearly shouted.

There was utter silence, all that could be heard was one another's breathing… … Did Lara just say the line that has been haunting me and stressing me out for the last two months… No, it started not too long after we became mates?! Focusing on Lara's face as she was still looking at me and there was no hint of lying or deceit. … So then… The deed is done! … … My life is going to become different and I don't take change well, for several reason! Rare it is for me to say the line that's coming to mind, but I can't help it; I'm likely doomed! And I won't be the only one, the child or dragonet that will come into the world due to the actions of Lara and myself, should they inherit qualities and other things from me will then be doomed as well. I knew this would come at some point true, though I had been trying to prepare myself for this. But… I hadn't been able to make myself ready just yet. Don't get me wrong, as I stated before, I like kids… As long as they're not mine.

The feeling of something rubbing against my right cheek, turned and when I glanced over to the right, I saw Lara using her head to caress my cheek. As my thoughts went along the tangent of what any offspring I could have would possibly go through… Learning with me as an example; I really didn't respond to Lara's actions. Yet, I felt, but didn't really fully register Lara wrapping her legs and paw around my body. Yes, I'm bigger overall than Lara, though with her legs a little longer than average, she is able to reach around me with her paws. My mate was hugging me and I believe attempting to comfort and console me; however, there was a feel of slowly growing desperation. Now her worry over this… Subject made sense, I had made it clear that the subject of parents and me or me being one wasn't an idea that I was fond of at all.

"Saber…" Lara began.

I felt a muscle twitch developing in the left side of my face, it was only due to my well-developed control that I wasn't freaking out right here and now. My head turned so that I looked at the dragoness, whose body was against mine. "Lara, did you just say that you are gravid?" I asked flatly.

"Yes, please just listen to me!" was Lara's answer and she clung to me a little tighter.

Didn't say anything, Lara had asked me to listen, so I would do that and keep myself in control… Or at least try my best to do so. Lara started talking about the 'good points' of us having a dragonet or multiple dragonets. Her case was… Sound, even if I don't want to admit it. I… Well, I've come to understand and… Accept that I… Love Lara and she loves me, it's a feeling that's not strange to me as it once was, but I'm still a complete noob to the idea. However, it was clear that Lara and I had different way of viewing thing and situations. She tends to see the good side, yet will stand her ground and defend her opinion. Whereas I… Well, I appear to be 'the eternal optimist', yet in reality, I'm far more practical minded in how things work, especially with how things work between my luck and myself. So, we cover each other where the other isn't as strong or as good with as the other.

Lara's reasoning in this, was along the lines of us being mates and so, with the two of us being together, dragonets are a given and would come at some point. Not just that, but having offspring being a wonderful part of life as we would get to raise them together… Another connection in the bond between Lara and me, at least that's was she's going with. Not that I didn't see the logic that the dragoness was telling me, yet I believe she's missing a few things. The first and one of the most important points that she's missing, I'm being hunted down by… A group of… whatever the ancient enemy actually are, and they won't accept anything less than my corpse to confirm that I'm dead. Second, as I have argued before, what in the hell do I know about what a parent is supposed to do, I don't have a clue how a parental figure is to act around their offspring D**n it!

As Lara kept justifying why having a dragonet is a good thing, her action of clinging to me became stronger and more desperate. Obviously, she is worried about how I would take this… And for viable reason as my reaction and previous discussions have proved. Once Lara had finished she just held onto me, internally, I was in turmoil. "Lara… I know I have said this before, specifically to you, even though I had not intended to; but I know nothing really about how to raise a dragonet or in essences, be a parent." I got out, my voice shaking ever so slightly.

Lara shifted her head so that I was forced to look her eye to eye, "What do you mean not intend to tell me?" she asked.

With Lara holding onto me as she is, I was unable to hold my maw shut and with the dragoness was holding my gaze while she waited for my answer to her question… Didn't help me. My problem with offspring was for the moment placed on the back burner, as I struggled to keep my mouth shut. I didn't want to tell Lara that she had the natural ability to somehow make me spill my secrets, no matter how deep or dark they were! If she knew that she could have me singing my unsaid thoughts and musings that haven't been heard by Master Kai, by just pinning me with her gaze and waiting me out, then I think she would do so much more going forward. But as Lara's gaze became a glare, I felt my effort of holding back the secrets being stressed and cracked. "I… What I meant to say was…" I mumbled.

Lara didn't let me look away from her… This… Is… So… Not… FAIR! My efforts to clench my maw shut… Were in vain as my maw began moving and I had no control of what was coming out as it stop listening to my mind's instructions. "Ahhh! Why?! Why is it that whenever you pin me with a stare or glare, I start saying things I would not even consider saying at all to anyone?! Not even Chizuru can do that and she has tried to get me to talk about things I do not talk about!" I took a deep breath, attempting to get my jaw to cease its movement, but silly me, with Lara, that doesn't happen, so my jaw kept going. "Yet you don't say anything, just stare or glare at me and have me spilling secrets like a blabbering idiot! And… I do not even know why it happens with you!"

… Dang it! Lara now knows that she can get me to tell her what I normally keep to myself. What do I do now?! None of my thoughts or secrets are safe! My mate had an expression of surprise on her face, "Wait, what do you mean?" Lara asked simply.

I let out a sigh of frustration as I had already spilled the beans and I knew that I would keep going whether I wanted to or not. "Have no clue, but something about you gets me to spill things like secrets and nay say subjects and talk about them which I do not do by choice." I returned.

Lara… For some reason smiled at me, then leaned forward and licked my snout. "Oh Saber, what is the problem with telling me things, even if it is stuff that you would not tell others? We are mates, we can trust each other completely." Lara said to me, before she pressed her snout against mine lightly, softly kissing me.

Once again, to my complete and utter surprise, Lara's action resulted in an unexpected and what I would consider a nigh impossible outcome. My body, of its own accord began to relax and the internal turmoil faded to a dull complaint. … How can she do this to me? No one has gotten close to having this kind of effect on me; however, Lara can get me to do things that I wouldn't consider doing for anyone! Anyway… Our discussion, didn't really go any further in the progress of Lara convincing me that being a parent is a good thing, nor me convincing her of the dangers facing me will also be on the dragonet's head. No, it just ended out with Lara cuddling me until we fell asleep.

-Scene Change-

Woke up the next morning, which was also the morning that I would set out for the conference… With my traveling companions. Now, some might think I have a problem with those who would be traveling with, and… Well, I do with some of them. You see, yesterday, not only did I find out that I would be stupid enough to agree to go to a conference between the races of the dragon realm, but I would also have others going with me. Didn't see an issue with most of them, yet there were those that I don't exactly get along with. Whom might be my traveling companions? The first two were Spyro and Seth, not a single complaint about the both of them coming with me, it was great as I haven't traveled with both of them for a while. Then… There was Neval, my beef isn't with him, but rather his 'alter ego' Nergal, who I do NOT get along with and get annoyed with. Chizuru would be coming along and that helped my peace of mind, she was solid in most if not all situations, be they logical or just plain crazy and impossible.

Those four were the ones that were around my age… Physically, the other three members of this band were older. First would be Spectra, out of the guardians, she is one of the decent ones AND has a working as well as active brain in her skull… I have to question on some of them on the working or active piece. Next in the band would be Huron, still have a hard time reading the grey wind dragon, so I don't know what to exactly think with him. The second to last traveling companion, would be the cheetah Hunter, whom I met previously, but don't really know very well personally. Yet I have heard good things about him and the information's sources are reliable and I trust them. The finally member of the group was the one I knew the least about as I had only met him two months ago, I'm of course talking about Nox. Apparently he knew the path we would be taking; the cheetah wouldn't be taking part in the conference. Something about not being in good standing with other cheetahs really at all, but he nor anyone else went into detail as to why. And so, we set off to the west to the place the conference was set to be… I still don't think this will end well, but that's me.

Chapter end!

A/n

And that's where I'll leave off with this chapter. Lots of stuff in this chapter and sorry it took me a while to get it written; school was sucking up my time for me to get good grades and that's important to me as is this story. Hopefully, chapters won't take me a couple of months going forward, but no promises right now, I'll try not to take as long though. Please take the time to write a review and tell me what you think of the chapter, the things that I could have done wrong, what you liked and questions you might have. Peace out until next time.

LizerTheBeastling

Thank you for the compliment.

KeyBlader Zen

I hope I was able to answer the 5 points that you brought up in the PM that I sent you. If not, just tell me and I'll do my best. And as for Getsuga, well she'll come in again later, I promise.

Rayrudan

Yes, Nox will have his part to play in this all. Hope you laugh at this chapter as well, I do put in the situations as I do to get some good humor and hope others get the same.

HolyCross9

There you go, Saber has had the talk you suggested with Ignitus and… well has been made to admit that he was somewhat wrong about the guardians with his first impressions.