"Life and death are one thread, the same line viewed from different sides."
– Lao Tzu
Chapter 5: For The Fallen
The white dragon awoke and found himself to be not in his room. But an odd marble room, it was dark and he could see a void of nothing that was covered by transparent mists. Suddenly a bright flash of light blinded the dragon for a brief moment. Glint could only stare at who was before him.
A dragoness.
Her scales were pure white, same with almost everything, save for her eyes. Which held a gaze of comfort and content in her blue, almost crystalline eyes. She smiled warmly at the younger dragons simple, dumbfounded stare. Glint also noted the dragoness was very beautiful, he wasn't sure whether it was just because of the place he was in or if it was something else. "You've been giving me the very same stare your father did when he laid eyes on me dear," the dragoness said, giggling lightly. She walked up close to Glint examining him with sturdy eyes, ones that didn't lose their comforting factor. She raised a wing, wide enough for Glint to go under.
"Uh... mom?" The younger dragon said awkwardly.
"Mom, mother, mama, mum; it doesn't matter. You may address me anyway you want. Even by my name..."
"Illumielle."
The white dragoness nodded, she watched amusingly as Glint walked under her wing, she covered her son before sighing. Glint couldn't help but feel ecstatic, his mother was actually communicating with him, although he felt a twinge of sadness. He realized how much of his life he had taken away, he wasn't really angry, he just felt a simple... longing. "I know what runs through your head dear. I'm sorry you had to face the hardships of life without me, your father..." She ended a tad bit off, as if she wanted to list someone else but decided not to. Glint was too busy reflecting to even notice.
"I miss you, and father. I didn't get a chance to meet you. Even now is just a mental longing."
"Oh, Glint, I'll let you know we are very much still here. With you there," she gently tapped his head. "And most importantly, here," the dragoness placed her paw over his heart, even grabbing his own paw and covering it with hers. She gave her son a loving nuzzle, "Solris is missing out, I don't know why he chose not to come."
Glint casted her a look of confusion."What do you mean? Did I disappoint him?"
"No you did not, it's hard to explain..."
Glint turned his head, "What's hard to explain about it?"
"Your father is busy, he's currently trying to contact someone. But I fear he has failed again," the dragoness said with a sturdy gaze as Glint accepted the explanation. "You have much to learn. Come, I will show you." Illumielle walked to the edge of the room they were in before stopping to look at her son, "Copy the exact movements I do."
She spread her wings out and turned to face to the young dragon before letting herself fall down the void below. Glint, surprised at first, but did the same. While falling he noticed the void had become more blue and suddenly he landed on a grassy area. Only the mere couple of meters in front of him wasn't blurred out. Illumielle was standing before him, a childish twinkle in her eye.
"Where are we?"
"The past, the present and the future dear. This is your subconscious, imagine what you want. But sadly, I will have to guide your imagination here. Let me give you an example." She closed her eyes and with a smile, the area around them became clear. He caught sight of two dragons, a dragoness and a dragon sitting next to each other by a tree. The area around them seemed tranquil, serene, it was beautiful. The two seemed to have their tails twined and the dragoness was holding a floor close to her heart. The male, was simply smiling with pure radiant joy. He realized the two were his parents, at a way younger age, around his though.
"You two... look so happy."
Illumielle smiled sweetly, "Yes, those times with your father were the best in my life. He was stern but had a kind heart, knows from right and wrong. While me, I was more carefree and spirited; I adored every moment I spent outside. I feel as if we light dragons have a closer connection to nature." The dragoness than closed her eyes again, blurring the scene around them. "Now, I want you to try my Ano Teri."
Glint instinctively knew what 'Ano Teri' meant. 'Little Light'. He smiled and closed his eyes to perform what was asked but he felt a tap on his shoulder and saw his mother waving goodbye. Glint suddenly heard the knocking of his door, causing the dragon immediately shoot up on his bed. He rubbed his eyes. Everything seemed so vivid. He remembered the tender touch from his mother, the love, it made him sad to have it end so soon.
His eyes darted to the wooden door, he made his way there drowsily and opened it with utter ease. He recognized the person before him, Aurea.
"I'm sorry if I had disturbed your serene slumber Glint... But it was somewhat urgent," she said with an apologetic glance, looking down.
"I'm fine. What's so important anyways?"
"There is a memorial gathering later this evening. It is mandatory that you attend," Aurea replied in her soft tone.
"I see, you knew about this?"
"Well... Y–yes. It's just that I learn about these at an earlier date before it's officially announced."
"How 'bout everyone else?"
Aurea just nodded mutely. Glint sighed, "Out of everyone, I was the only one who didn't know?"
"You were traversing about the city. It would explain why, and you would have known earlier if you stayed a bit longer here rather than leaving so early in the morning."
"Wait, what's the time?"
"Almost noon..."
"I woke up later than I thought," Glint said to himself. "Is that all?" He asked the dragoness moments later. She nodded before turning to leave. Glint watched as the yellow dragoness disappeared down the hallway.
"It's rude to stare Glint." A familiar voice said next to him. He turned his head and yelped in surprise as he saw a white dragoness beside him. She giggled as he fell to the floor with a loud thud.
"Mom..." The white dragon started as he stared at the ceiling.
"Sorry about that dear, I was just teasing. And I didn't mean to scare you."
"How is it that you are in front of me? Can anyone else see you?"
The dragoness sighed and shook her head before gazing deep into Glint's brown eyes. "I've been able to do this many years ago when your father and I perished. Although I'm not tangible in any way, no one but you can see unless I want that changed."
"Oh..."
"So Glint, don't just stand there and talk to a door, " Illumielle winked at him.
He got the meaning and looked around, no one was there. His gaze landed back at the spot where his mother was... She wasn't there. He decided to go to the infirmary but halfway there he stopped upon seeing Fynir. The red dragon stopped Glint and smiled gratefully at him. "Thanks for being there. Spyro's still down at the infirmary though. His condition neither deteriorating or improving," he had an air of guilt around him, Fynir looked down apprehensively. "It's my fault, I should have tried to fight back. Instead, I just gave up and let this happen..."
Glint studied his friend for a moment before responding."Think about it first... Would have fighting back helped Spyro that much? I mean, the dragon that attacked you would've killed you if you just tried fight back. And I don't want that to happen, you're a friend."
"But... Spyro..."
"I know it sounds odd to not even aid Spyro, selfish even, but there were many outcomes from that scenario. Who knows how differently things could have gone..."
"I suppose," the red dragon looked unconvinced. "I'll be going to the library... I have something I want read about," he turned to leave.
"Alright. I'll catch you soon," Glint replied. He continued his way to the infirmary and once there he checked Spyro and saw Fynir was correct. There were no noticeable changes from last night, Glint himself, worried already.
"Are things truly evil as they say dear?" A voice emanated from behind, calm, and soothing as the white dragon found. He didn't have to look to know it was Illumielle.
"Mother..." Glint started, in a low whisper, not wanting to sound insane if anyone happened to pass by. "What are you implying?"
"You'll see... in time."
"What are you doing here now?" He turned around, his mother was hidden in a dark corner of the room. Only her eyes we visible. Extended her paw in front of Glint. He tried touching it, only to have his paw pass through. He watched as his mother gave him a sad smile.
"I will be guiding you. More directly this time." She paused. "You'll see me pop in inconveniently or conveniently," the dragoness added in with a wink as she smiled slyly. She vanished without another word after that. Glint focused his attention on Spyro once more. Examining the odd black spot on his chest that just simply remained still, as if it was dormant.
The dragon stalked within the shadows, alone in the woods, he waited. Planning his next move and forming a back up plan if his original one failed. Now if the corrupting darkness he inserted into Spyro became dominant, then it would kill the purple dragon, leaving him with one other target.
Glint.
But how would he get to him? Lure him out? Infiltrate the city and assault him? Or simply wait until the time was right? The dragon stopped moving and stared down at the dirt ground. He needed to try an experiment of his. Yes, the plan would be set in motion. And if everything goes accordingly, than it should be nothing more than a simple process. The dragon raised his paws as he sat on his haunches, quietly chanting an ancient forbidden dark language. Suddenly a shade appeared. It hovered in front of the dragon. Who smiled deviously.
This project will succeed...
"Spyro... Spyro... Spyro... Time to wake up." A voice echoed within the purple dragons head. He groaned and slowly opened his eyes, which drowsily proceeded to scan the area around him. It was dark, everything around him was illuminated softly enough to make it manageable. He noticed the ground felt rough and hard. It was made of stone bricks or something. The purple dragon slowly rose up and tried taking step forward. His paw, instead of making contact with ground, moved pointlessly through air as nothing was there. Causing Spyro to sway as he became imbalanced, he regained his footing and fully realized he was in a very odd place.
It was a void, darkness mostly covered it and the white light that illuminated some parts were slowly moving backwards dimming the area around him, although it wasn't very noticeable as Spyro had to squint his eyes to realize this. He took a step forward, suddenly dark bricks flew up and made a pathway. Puzzled, the purple dragon took a step back, causing the bricks to fall down and another set appear behind him.
He played around with this before understanding it. The bricks form in the direction he was moving towards, only set locations though. He looked around more cautiously and saw there was doors around him. He walked towards one and opened it, expecting a passageway of sorts. Instead he was met with a brick wall.
Unconcerned, Spyro made his way another door. It opened to reveal a brick wall, he was about to go to another before it suddenly broke apart and the purple dragon was immediately being sucked in by unknown force. He grabbed on to the wall next to him with both paws and looked behind. There was an ominous red light and inside a monstrous dark apparition was moving towards him slowly, saying, "Spyro must be destroyed!" The voice was raspy and very malicious, it contained no trace of being even dragon-like. Even more so, agonizing screams of horror and despair seemed to emanated from the apparition itself. It was the very embodiment of fear itself.
The purple dragon was truly frightened, he scrammed towards the other door and it opened, a wall... Now panicking, the purple dragon looked behind him to see the apparition closing in, the cries of despair and horror started to affect his thoughts. He stopped staring and opened the only door left. There was a bright flash of light as he was sucked into the door. Spyro was thrown down onto the ground, grunting loudly as he rolled across with bruises becoming apparent. He opened his amethyst eyes and saw he was inside the same void, but different location. He saw an orb of light hovering in front of him. He started to follow it and when he did a child's scream was heard and he looked behind.
There it was again! The apparition, it extended its arm and spoke whilst moving towards the purple dragon at a steady pace. "Come Spyro, I will show you the path to oblivion. Come with me and you'll know true fear... Submit!"
"Never!" With that, the purple dragon ran, following the orb of light that seemed to guide him. The brick paths that formed were like tunnels, some were broken apart far enough that he'd have to jump to make it across. He stopped at a section with two paths, left or right? The orb disappeared seemingly... He noticed the red ominous light from the right coming, and turned left without hesitation. He ran and ran until he reached a dead-end. And the orb was still nowhere to be seen.
Spyro let out a cry of despair, was this it? Is this apparition going to get him now? He looked behind as he began backing himself to the wall behind him, trying to squeeze through so he'd have as much space as possible to think before being taken. The red light approached, the cries returned, the apparition that looked disfigured was extending its arm. "Do you hear their cries Spyro? All they want is someone to be with them, to share their pain and suffering... Why won't you help them Spyro? Why won't you give them the comfort they deserve? Why Spyro? Why?" As it said that, the cries got louder and louder, soon the apparition was merely meters from his face.
Spyro was about to close his eyes before the wall behind him collapsed and then he sucked into the void. Memories flashed before his mind as he fell like a wingless bird. Ignitus... Cynder... The guardians... His parents... Sparx... Even the dragonfly he would love to see right now, to get out of this horrid vivid like dream. Yet it seemed so real...
He landed on the ground with and 'oomph' and opened his eyes once more. The purple dragon panted as he looked around... His eyes widened as he saw what was ahead of him.
A maze...
Spyro took a deep breath and proceeded. Even more resolute to end this. He'd just have to continue. The maze was simple at first, but then, it got more and more complex. He found himself walking in circles apparently before figuring out there was a certain order he was supposed to walk throughout to continue. He suddenly reached a long narrow hallway. He began making his way through cautiously before he felt a sudden and unexpected tug on his hind paws. He let out a yelp as he looked behind.
It was just bloody, dragon paws that started to pull him back. Spyro struggled fiercely, he broke through the grip and started to run down the hall. Suddenly the hallway became red and an endless stream of paws popped out, the cries of agony were back. That didn't stop Spyro from continuing he dodged multitudes of paws that aimed to drag him down with them. And while he did so, the same old voice came back, echoing as it said its words. "Spyro, they want someone to share their suffering and pain. Why won't you help them? Why won't you?"
He ignored the voice despite his terror and finally broke thought the hallway before ending up with two ways. Right or left? He hesitated as he saw what was on the left side, more like who...
Cynder.
She looked up at him, eyes full of despair, and frightened. "Spyro! Help me!" She called out, voice filled with terror as she screamed. He looked to the right and saw the light... The light! He began making his way there before turning around as Cynder spoke again "Spyro! What are you doing? Help me, please... I don't want to be alone..." She said as she looked down. That touched the purple dragons heart, he remembered all the times he spent with the black dragoness, and he didn't want to be left alone, or leave Cynder alone too.
He was about to step back to help Cynder before suddenly, the cries were heard again and the apparition appeared from behind her, both arms extended. She looked behind and let out a cry of fear, "Spyro! Please! No... Not like this... Don't leave me!" She screamed as Spyro realized something very critical, he looked behind him with sorrow. And back towards the light.
"I'm sorry Cynder..." He said bitterly as he walked towards the light, it took every last of ounce of his willpower not to turn back as he heard Cynder's tormented screaming from behind and cries for help. He closed his eyes and stepped into the light. A voice spoke, soothing him and removing his fears, doubts, worries, it cleared his mind. "Spyro, you've made a wise decision. Do not worry, it is all over now. Hush now youngling. But, remember the Fallen."
Glint sat next to Spyro, he sighed as he watched the purple dragon stir and suddenly stopping. He was concerned, what is going on? Suddenly the purple dragon made a sudden movement before jolting upright swinging both paws in a random, panicked like state. Before the white dragon could react, he felt one of his paws smack him right onto his right cheek. He recoiled slight pain, rubbing his cheek tenderly as Spyro stopped moving. Eyes wide with confusion, he looked around before returning his attention to himself. "Spyro?" The purple dragon turned his head back to the white dragon.
"Glint... I've just had the most horrifying nightmare."
"Really?" Glint inclined his head to ask for further information. The purples dragon nodded before proceeding to tell the white dragon about his vivid, but horrifying experience in there. The white dragon listened carefully, curious about the apparition that appeared in Spyro's adventure in his head.
"And I still can't smell anything," the purple dragon joked, trying to sniff in the air for any scents for his nostrils. He grunted before shrugging.
"What do you mean?" The white dragon gave him a puzzled glance.
The purple dragon realized Glint wasn't there at that time. "Well, long story short: I smelled a flower Cynder asked me too and I've temporarily lost my sense of smelling since then. And that happened yesterday..."
Glint nodded slowly, processing the information, he looked around briefly before returning his attention to Spyro. "I think Cynder would love to see you now. I'll get going, see you soon," the dragon departed without another word as a black dragoness stepped in. Her emerald eyes that held concern now twinkled with relief. Glad that Spyro was ok, she embraced the purple dragon, who laughed as Cynder began to squeeze him tightly.
"Spyro! I was worried..." The dragoness looked down, she didn't know what to say.
"I'm fine now..." The purple dragon twined tails with Cynder's, he nuzzled her with pure affection. "Anything that would concern me happened lately?" He said as he gently lifted her head with his paw, the two stared at each others eyes, emerald clashed with amethyst. They both smiled as Cynder began to answer his question.
"Oh, not much..."
Aurea couldn't help but stare at Fynir's torn wing membrane. It shocked her that he could bear with a life restriction such as that. He seemed fine with it though. At least on first glance it did. Aurea had observed him coming in almost everyday with books about the dragon's wing. He had sheets of paper with writing utensils along too. By then, she already concluded that he was interested in restoring his wing back to its former state.
To fly.
That was his goal, and it was an ambitious one too. Right now, the red dragon was attentive and sketching on a piece of paper. He seemed to grumble every now and then, crumbling papers and leaving them off the side to be disposed of later. Aurea realized Fynir had caught her staring at his wing when he looked up. He raised a brow. She immediately looked away, embarrassed. Focusing her attention back at more important matters, she started to preoccupy herself with thoughts.
Her thoughts drifted to Glint. She admired his noble ideologies and moral values, despite how naïve they were. The world wasn't perfect, she'd wish he knew that. But, she guessed he would have started to notice that by now. Aurea thought of Glint as a study buddy, and a good friend. She was sure he could say the same about her.
"Aurea," an unmistakable voice started, breaking the yellow dragoness' thoughts. It was Volteer, her uncle. "I need you to accompany me."
"Yes uncle," she immediately followed the guardian as he strode towards the temple front. She guessed he needed her to help him with organizing the event. The event's purpose is to remember those who had fallen during the war. Simply that. But now since the Fire Guardian Ignitus had perished, it was going to be more in-depth than usual. Upon reaching the front, there were many moles, dragons, and cheetahs. All working through their laborious task at hand. There were many materials lying around, with tools normally off to their side. Volteer stopped a little bit off to the outskirts of the work area, he turned to face the young dragoness.
"I will require your assistance to maintain productive work so it's ensured. Now, I know you're not a social dragoness, but I expect you to at least do your task beyond my expectations." He looked at Aurea with a critical eye before making his way elsewhere. Aurea gulped as she stared at the workers before her, she hated crowds; she disliked socializing to be honest. It was something she couldn't make herself excel at. Well, at least they were working. She kept a close eye on their progress, and while doing so, she hoped she wouldn't have to speak to anyone she didn't know. Uncomfortable with just standing in the open, she slowly made her way to a more secluded area where she could keep watch.
Time seemed to pass slowly for the dragoness, and much to her dismay, a couple of workers did come and ask her for guidance on placement of some of the things they were constructing. She was relieved when she saw a white dragon pass by her and then suddenly appear in front of her.
"Hello Aurea. Is this the event that you're talking about?" Glint said, watching the work progress. He turned to the yellow dragoness who nodded timidly. "Nice seeing you again, but I uh, have to go somewhere... Catch you later." Glint said awkwardly before running off. Aurea watched the white dragon take to the air and fly out of view. She assumed he was going down to the central area of the city. The city of Warfang itself was classified with three sectors. Central, East, and West Warfang. She had heard the white dragon was getting attention from the East sector, which normally had the lowers classes living there.
Apparently, she learned that he helped many people, but she thought he was a little to helpful. Aurea knew someone could try to take advantage of Glint and his helping hand, she really wished he knew that. Best to tell him though. The yellow dragoness continued observing the workers, wondering what the white dragon was up to now.
Glint flew down towards the city gates, he knew they weren't allowed to leave the city but there were still travelers passing by, and of course the rule didn't apply to the citizens of Warfang.
Only them.
The white dragon managed to sneak through the gates unnoticed and it into the wilderness. He was going back. Back to a familiar place... His cave. He remembered leaving his snake there, Vipek, he wondered how the little reptile was faring. Glint made his way through the woods without much hindrance. He could recall the path back and the landmarks that would assist him. The dragon began to let himself become attuned with nature. Listening to the soft crunch as he stepped on the moist grass, the chirping of birds and the sounds of the animated of the wildlife. He noticed the trees had leaves around them, Fall must be close. He took in a deep breath, inhaling the fragrant scent of the sweet flowers nearby. Ushering in a sense of connection and tranquility for the dragon. He wanted to lay down and think, muse about everything so far.
But he couldn't right now, he wanted to get back first. He guessed he was most like his mother, more in-tuned with nature and the beings in it. He was perfectly happy outside here in the woods, it provided him a sense of security. The dragon hear the howling of wolves and stopped briefly before continuing. He wasn't concerned, the wolves were most likely hunting for morning. After some time he was at the very front of his old home. The dragon stared at the entrance before entering, memories flowed through his head. He closed his eyes and ran his paw down the floor gently. Letting the silence envelope, he relaxed, listening to the sounds of dripping water. A sudden hiss interrupted his thoughts, he turned towards the source of the noise.
And wasn't all that surprised to see his companion, Vipek. The snake always refused to leave the cave, even once. The dragon never really understood why. And the more he thought about it, the more puzzled he became. Glint extended his fore arm, letting the snake slither up to this wing before suspending itself on there. Glint smiled in content. "Nice to see you too." The snake simply stuck its forked tongue out and reply before going silent.
"Vipek isn't just a random snake that was tamed long ago dear," a dragoness came out of the darkness. She nodded at the snake,"Vipek, or Psamathe, as we called him is the watcher of this cave. He makes sure that nothing here is disturbed by anyone other you, or one that is permitted to come here through your consent." She raised her paw towards the snake who lowered its head and stared into the dragoness' blue eyes.
"That makes a lot of sense. But you need to stop coming out randomly, especially without saying 'hello' first," Glint replied, as the snake slithered away, ether disinterested with the conversation or for another unknown reason.
"It's just purely effect Glint," she giggled before looking at the dragon. "Have I ever told you your actual name?" It was a rhetorical question, he didn't answer and instead, gave her a childish, eager expression. "Your name was supposed to be Orion. What do you think?" The dragoness gave him a comforting look, her white scales seemed to radiate from the darkness.
Glint chose his own name for various reasons. Orion seemed nice, but he felt his name right now was symbolic."It's... nice. Mother." The dragoness seemed to notice what his thoughts were and just smiled.
"I think you'd like to addressed as Glint, don't you?" She asked causally. The young dragon nodded as she began to walk towards the inner sections of the cave. "Very well, follow me. You came here for a reason, what is it?"
"I want to learn about him." Glint said with determination, what he said seemed to take the dragoness by surprise.
"Him, the misguided one?"
"Yes, the one who hunts me."
Illumielle had a saddened expression on her normally cheerful attitude, she looked regretful, as if she'd done something she didn't want to. A single tear leaked down her face, she didn't even bother wipe it as it 'hit' the ground disappearing.
"Are you sure?" She asked sternly. The white dragon nodded. "I'm sorry we've kept you with 'ignorance is bliss'. But this is something we'd thought you shouldn't learn until later."
Glint nodded without hesitation, there was no need for his mother to apologize as he already understood his parents reasoning. He was ready to learn about this dragon, he had to end this threat, one way or the other. "I wish to learn mother," the dragon said, reiterated what he said earlier.
"If you insist. I hope your heart can take this well dear," the dragoness gave him a grim look. "The dragon that hunts you, the misguided one is someone you would have known. If not for the war... I will show you." Illumielle raised her paw and gently tapped her son's forehead. An image briefly flashed through his head.
It showed four dragons, all four were blurred out until it zoomed in. The first two he took notice of were unmistakably, his mother and father. Both were smiling at the other white dragons, they stood on the cave floor. One was cheerfully jumping up and down, evident by how he seemed joyful in the air. Glint realized the dragon was him... he stared at the other Glint in shock. He felt sadness bubbling inside him, a pot of depression waiting to be poured. Glint refocused his attention on the other dragon. The other had a more stern expression as he laid on the floor, like he was in deep thought, he had a small smile forming on his lips as one eye was looking at the younger white dragon. A cheerful twinkle seemed to be hidden in his other eye.
Glint knew this dragon would be his sibling, an older sibling. His brother. He became very bitter and confused as he managed to expose the identity of the hunter. His brother... His brother was corrupted by the darkness and he was hunting him. Glint let out frustrated cry, one filled sorrow, it was long and mournful. He laid down on the floor, covering his head with his wings. Illumielle looked at him with an empathetic gaze, she stayed silent, letting the white dragon think. A long eerie silence passed. "Why mother? Why was he corrupted? What had caused him to fall so low?"
"Your brother... witnessed indescribable events, ones that weakened his mental strength and emotionally drained him. Leaving him ripe for the taking, not all light dragons are immune to the darkness and its powers. Keep that in mind. He should still have a chance of redemption, however, I fear it's slipping out of our grasp quickly."
"...And if it does?"
"You will have to kill him... I'm so sorry Ano Teri." Illumielle looked down with grief, Glint watched as his mother leaked tears. He was doing the same too, he didn't want to. He wouldn't be able to bring himself to kill his own brother, even if he never met him. Family, is still family.
"I... I wish... to be left alone. Please." He said as he wiped a tear, his mother nodded. Understanding the grief he felt she really wished he could have been more happy. But what ignorance he held wasn't bliss, and it certainly was going to last long ether.
"One last thing to take into consideration dear... You have a limited window left, the spark remains. Give the dwindling spark the life it needs and it will grow. Grow into something that will break the chains of darkness holding your brother... Maybe then you can save him."
"Brother, where have we gone so wrong?" Glint asked himself as the dragoness faded into the darkness. He curled into a ball and silently let his emotions dictate his actions.
"Zeth, you're doing wrong... Just take a break, please," Sarin said In desperation as the younger wind dragon worked with determination to complete his work. He shook his head fiercely and continued to work. Sarin didn't give up, "Come on, you need some time off. The memorial will be held soon. You need your rest."
"No. I must get this done!"
The green dragoness eyes flared, "Zethur. I want to you to stop. Now!"
"Sarin, I have to complete this! You don't understand!" The wind dragon called out frantically, he seemed intimidated by her rising anger.
"Zethur! Now!" Sarin raised her voice, her eyes brimming with anger.
"Master, please..."
"Zethur Gradivus Whirlind..."
"Alright! Fine... I'm sorry Master Sarin..." The wind dragon looked down with disappointment. The grey dragon dropped his tools and walked upstairs in a depressive manner, head hung low, wings deflated, slowly making his way to his room. The wooden floor moaned in response as the grey dragon went inside his room and closed the door. It was an action that stung Sarin. She figured she went too hard on him, Sarin knew she should have never raised her voice. But Zeth wouldn't listen. He was so intent on finishing this project for the Crafts and Arts contest, her apprentice was stubborn as a mule. She sighed as she rubbed her forehead. The dragoness pushed her goggles up and stood there. Debating whether or not she'd talk to the young wind dragon.
Having made up her mind she went upstairs but stopped as she saw some of her old projects for the Arts and Crafts. These she made long ago, some during the war, some before. They reflected her emotions at the time they were made. Sarin stared at them with an reflective gaze, she couldn't help but think of those old times...
Sarin blinked her bright green eyes and turned towards the wind dragons room. She knocked on the door gently, "Zethur? Are you okay? Can I come in?"
No response.
Sarin tried to open the door, and to her surprise it opened. Revealing the grey dragon idly examining his work. He didn't seem to notice her presence, that was, until she got closer. "Master... Why choose me?" The sudden question from the dragon surprised the dragoness. She went over to his side and sat next to him as he shifted uncomfortably.
"Zethur... You know why," Sarin said.
"I don't," that was his response.
"You do. Remember the day we've met? That's when I knew you'd make a worthy pupil," she smiled as she recalled the events that led her to where she was now. With her apprentice, her work renowned, she worked hard for this. Too bad her family was non-existent to even notice her accomplishments.
"Yes. That was a year ago."
A green dragoness walked down a solitary path, straight, but quiet. She was carrying a bag of materials she had received from the local producers. The dragoness suddenly turned her head as she saw an object coming towards her. "Watch out ma'am!" A small disc like object flew by her face as she took as step backwards. The disc turned around sharply as the a grey dragon ran past her, he used his element to reel in the disc and caught it in his mouth before taking with his paw. He stopped in front of the dragoness. "Sorry about that... I was playing with this," he waved the disc in his paws. The dragon was younger than the dragoness, by a couple of years at best. He looked eager, and certainly energetic.
The dragoness stared at him before replying. "There's no need to apologize, but, did you make that disc by yourself?"
"What? This?" the dragon gave the dragoness a closer look of the disc. It was simple design. Rounded, skinny, made out of wood, more like Dalsic tree wood, which was known for its lightweight. Sort of rough-looking but it was slightly chipped here and there too, most likely from the time he spent playing with the object. The dragoness nodded in response to his question.
"I very much did! All by myself! I learned some things in class today and I decided to try it out by making something. All it needed was some Dalsic wood, a sturdy frame with lots of surface area to get air resistance." The dragon started to explain how he made the object eagerly, and without much pauses. The dragoness, not really annoyed by his sudden enthusiasm about his object, found it very intriguing actually. The dragon impressed her with his knowledge of design and
"Do you live here?" She asked.
"No, I don't. I'm just visiting with Elder Tarkish." That name rung a bell, the dragoness had a surprised expression written over. She hadn't realized it until now, but the two dragons shared a similarity in looks.
"You're his grandson?"
The grey dragon gave her a nod. "Yep! That's me! Zethur Gradivus Whirlind."
"I see why. I'm Sarin." The dragoness extended a paw, he took it shook it gently. Eyes full of revere for the dragoness as he recognized her name.
"Miss Sarin, may I accompany you back?" He asked politely, a sudden change of his personality. She nodded.
"I wouldn't mind. Tarkish is at the village I'm going to right?"
"Yup!" Zeth was ecstatic, he hoped that he could become Sarin's apprentice. He really wanted to, it's his dream and passion to be a smithy. And no better master could be his than Sarin. He grinned brightly.
Sarin was eager to talk to Elder Tarkish again, she wanted to speak to him about his grandson Zethur, the very same one who's escorting her back. Tarkish had been egging her to have him as an apprentice, she was impressed with his 'toy" and decided to give him a chance. After a few more tests, she just had to make sure he could take the role well. Even though the war was still waging, it didn't mean the hidden villages could have a sense of security. Sarin looked towards the sky and couldn't help but think: What if the war ended today?
"That's why Zethur, I chose you because you impressed me, you've shown me your skills and they continued to impress me. Do you understand now?" Sarin gave Zeth, who had his gaze focused on the floor during the majority of the time, a smile.
"I do now. I'm sorry Sarin, I was trying to impress you, as I've always had. I was afraid I couldn't do it this time, and you'd be disappointed in me," the grey dragon sniffed almost dejectedly.
Sarin and had a thoughtful look, "Oh Zeth, you don't always have to impress me. I just want you to put in your best effort for everything you do. But, with respectable working times, an exhausted worker loses quality. Remember that." Zeth smiled, cheered up by her consoling, he suddenly felt her arms wrap around him. He felt happy with her embrace and returned it without another thought.
"You are like the little brother I've never had kiddo." She said as a whisper into his ear.
"You're the older sister I never had. Thank you Sarin."
The two broke off from their embrace. Sarin rubbed the younger dragon's head playfully. "Get back to work when you're ready!" He saluted her as she went out the door back downstairs.
"Yes ma'am!"
The green dragoness went downstairs and pushed her goggles back down as she examined her latest commission. She paced herself accordingly as she prepared her tools and got ready to work on the thing once more. Raising her hammer, she swung it down, but unexpectedly stopped, as she heard brief knocking on the door. She let out a sigh before pushing her goggles down once more and went rover to the door to open it.
To her upmost surprise it was a dragon, it's not the random visits that surprised her, but his wing! His left-wing had its membrane torn out brutally, she almost gasped but kept a stern expression on her features as she greeted him. "Hello sir, what brings you here?
"I've come to ask, if you could make this. It's a large project and I think I have enough to pay it off." He grabbed a large parchment and unrolled it in front of her. She examined the blueprint as it turned out to be. Her eyes widened as she saw how ambitious this was.
"You want me, to make a whole new wing membrane for you? Do you even know how risky that is?!"
"I do and I'm prepared for the consequences, whether good or bad," he said calmly.
It struck her how cool he was about this. She raised a brow skeptically.
"I don't know whether I should just slap you or just yell at you," she said as she rubbed her temples. The dragon broke his calm look, and had replaced it with an intimidated one.
"Uh, I think neither would be fine Miss Sarin," he shifted uncomfortably.
"Of course you know my name, otherwise you would have went to some other smithy. Alright, come in. I'll see what I can do, we'll talk about payment later. I have to make sure if this is even possible."
"It is. It's been tried before."
"Somebody has done their homework," she replied in a teasing way. Sarin came back with some writing utensils and took one long look on the blueprint. She blinked, "alright, so you have done your homework. Saves me some trouble."
"What? You'd think I'd come in here without a clue as to what I'm doing?"
"Actually yes..." The red dragon feigned an offended look. Sarin smirked with a knowing look. "I jest."
"As do I."
"Oh so are you another one of those smarties... Tell me about your self. I'd might as well know my client."
"Well, I'm Fynir, to start. Um, do I have to say more?" He shrugged.
Sarin rolled her eyes."Well, duh. Yes you do, I'm not going to sit here in complete silence alright? So get talking."
Fynir just stared at her blankly, he didn't know what else to say. "Uh..." He tried to mentally grasp for words but came up empty. "Just pose me a question."
"How does it feel without flight?" She replied swiftly, not looking up. She was already busy scrutinizing the blueprint, as the dragoness started to mark things and scribble some stuff down.
"Depressing. I can't do half of the advanced combat moves that actually require you to fly," the dragon looked down. "I can't help but envy those who could fly. Even you, can fly. I can't... Do you know how it feels to be grounded? Unable to feel the cool wind blow across your face, making you feel free?"
Sarin looked up, halting her progress. "I don't. You must do."
The rest ended in silence. Fynir just watched attentively as Sarin worked on improving his blueprint before actually starting the project itself. He knew a mandatory event was taking place at the evening, and hoped he wasn't going to be late. The red dragon wondered how the others were faring.
Spyro stood next to Cynder as they marveled the night sky. He had his wing over the dragoness and the both of them was content with the way things are now. The dark sky was filled with millions of little glowing dots. Spyro looked at Cynder, who was almost completely invisible due to her scales. In fact, her eyes were closed, Spyro wouldn't have known she was there if she wasn't under his wing now. He smiled, "I love these moments. The times where I can just relax with the dragoness I know best and not have to worry about anything..."
"It's a just reward for saving the world don't you think?" Cynder replied with one eye open.
Spyro chuckled quietly, "I wouldn't ask for any more." Cynder snuggled closer to Spyro her scales touching his he felt the heat radiating from her body. Cynder yawned and shut her eyes, just breathing slowly.
"Well purple savior, what do you think of our newcomers?" She asked, eyes closed. Spyro put a claw to his chin, closing his eyes briefly.
"Glint? Well, since I've–I mean we–figured out he's a prankster for a moment than he's a noble dragon the second. Nice dragon, just wish he didn't try all sorts of pranks on me during the times we've... hanged out."
"And Fynir?"
"Fynir's friendly, we haven't talked much. But the times we've done... I can say he's good at heart."
"I'm more curious about them in the dojo. Can you imagine they'd fight? They would improvise like you before you starting receiving proper training on fighting. That is, if they weren't trained at all," Cynder shifted a bit to keep her body awake.
"I think the both of them will be a nasty surprise. Just like Aurea," the purple dragon shuddered as he remembered that one sparring session.
"I remember the first time we've seen her fought..." Cynder said, opening both eyes as she stared off into the dark night. Thinking about the dragoness that spent most of her time at the library.
"'You've' seen her fought. I was the one fighting her," he gently nudged Cynder as he said this.
"I recall a purple dragon almost losing to a dragoness..." The black dragoness commented, her tone dripping with humor.
"Hey! I underestimated her, she was deceiving. How was I supposed to know Aurea trained with Volteer? It's no wonder how she can perform so many advanced Electricity moves."
"And the only reason you've won was because you figured out she wasn't great at physical combat," Cynder just smirked as the purple dragon rolled his eyes.
"Well, for all that elemental prowess. It must have blatantly obvious. It explains why she tried so hard to keep me at a fair distance." A bell rung twice, abruptly ending their conversation. Both dragons raised their heads, they looked at each other and stood up.
"Looks like we lost our free time."
"Of course." The two dragons made their way to the temple front. They slowed down as they saw a platform in the very front. Most likely where the dragons will be addressing the crowd. In front of the platform however was a large object covered with a piece of cloth that was even more so larger than the object itself. To the left and right of the platform in the front was other wooden platforms. They had various instruments on them and apparently the musicians are preparing to tune.
"Oh, hi Spyro, Cynder," a yellow dragoness came up to them.
"Hello Aurea," both dragons replied.
"So you've heard the bell? Well good, because the event is near beginning. And the citizens will be here shortly," the dragoness let out a sigh, relieved that she was done with her part. Now it was up to the Guardians to do the rest. "Have any of you seen Glint?"
Cynder looked around briefly before shaking her head. "No, why?"
"It's just that I haven't seen him since the morning and it's already the evening," Aurea had a concerned look, she looked out towards the city as if expecting the white dragon to suddenly appear. He didn't.
"I'm sure he'll be here," Spyro reassured, as the dragoness timidly looked down.
"But what if–"
She was cut off by the sudden noises that came from afar where a giant crowd of citizens formed out of diverse species, moved towards the temple front. The dragons got out of the crowd's way. They all prepared themselves for what has to come. Aurea kept a close eye for a white dragon, one that would appear to be late.
The white dragon opened his eyes, it felt like a long time since he kept some emotions bottled up. And to finally release them, especially somewhere more comfortable was, relaxing to say the least. Glint stood up slowly, he recollected his senses and looked outside. He gasped as he realized he was going to be late for the event. He started to move down towards the exit, but stopped as a famille snake stopped in front of him. It hissed and coiled its body before rubbing its head against his forepaw. Glint smiled and leaned down with his head. "It was nice seeing you again... Psamathe." He gently ran a claw the snake's head and went over to the exit. He stepped outside and hopped down from the edge of the rocky plateau.
He absorbed the sense of he forest around him, it was dark, and the movements that was occurring inside the forest can be unsettling, to say in the least. Glint heard wolves howl, he wondered if they were hunting... Stupid question, of course they were. The dragon walked, he could hardly see more than a few feet in front, he immediately casted an orb that illuminated the path ahead. A cool breeze ran along the dragon giving him a slight chill, he knew traveling in the dark was considered dangerous. As it often proved fatal for those who were in the woods, as some creatures that hide during the day make their presence known in the chilling night. It was frightening to know there were creatures that actually hunted lone dragons. Wild creatures.
As he made his way through the almost ominous dark night, the dragon was surprised to see his orb flicker and die out. He stood alone in the darkness for a few moments before trying to cast another, it too, died out. Stunned, the dragon took a deep breath to prevent himself from panicking. They say, there's a symptom for traveling alone in the woods, in complete and utter darkness. One would get paranoid, then, they would imagine as if everything around them was monsters; they would panic and eventually succumb to insanity if they didn't get out. Glint wasn't concerned about that though.
He knew this forest, and this forest knew him.
Relying on his five senses he started to make his way back to Warfang. The dragon fell as he suddenly landed into a pit. He looked up, and then around, the space around him was to enclosed to fly out. Climbing was out of the option, the dirt was simply too unstable. He looked ahead of him, once more he tried to use an orb. A foul odor stuck him, he tightened his nose, trying to prevent most of the odor from dominating his smell.
A sudden flicker of light brightened the area ahead. The dragon recoiled at the sight, down in the once dark tunnel, was rows of skeletons. He identified them as dragons. He tried to recall if there was any reasons for this pit, but came up empty. He made a mental note to ask Aurea when he got the chance and made his way slowly though the skeletons, trying to avoid disturbing them. As it would be disrespectful. The odor lingered, Glint focused on the task at hand. And that trying to get out of this as soon as possible.
Glint found a hole to the side after minutes of searching. The dragon had to abolish the orb if he was to squeeze through. He hoped it was a chance of escape and started to squeeze through, it was incredibly tight, he felt his body was almost being crushed and had slight trouble breathing. Upon reaching the end of the hole, he poked his head out and took a deep breath before continuing. He quickly got the rest of his body out of the squeeze and looked around. He heard whispering, it was unsettling, slightly frightened he cautiously got an orb out. It illuminated the area and revealed shadows of dragons moving animatedly as if they were alive. He felt a familiar presence next to him and turned around to see his mother watching the shadows with a reflective expression. "Odd anomalies aren't they?" She looked at Glint before continuing. "These are remnants of the wars 'memories' so to speak. They are beings who couldn't ascend to the ancestors, it's rather saddening."
"Is this a fate for all those who–"
"No. These are the unfortunate ones. They linger here, living as if they hadn't died." One of the shadows stood upright and had their head pointed towards the white dragon. Who shifted uncomfortably.
"Are they aware of me? Do they even know they are dead?" He asked as the shadow moved closer and closer to Glint.
"They're not aware of anything. Their death, even your presence. If you make contact with them, you'll relieve their memories before their passing. It is vivid, mind you. What they felt before will be felt by you." The shadow stopped in front of Glint staring as if he wasn't there. It craned its neck back and apparently opened its mouth as it was speaking, the other shadows that were among it reacted and got ready for an unseen threat. Glint hesitantly stuck his paw out and touched the shadow.
"Ulmous, what do you see?" A green dragon asked he had a terrified expression and was shaking with fear. The black dragon next to him had his eyes closed, as if he was preying. He was muttering indescribably.
"Nothing..." Glint could feel the fear that all Ulmous was feeling, and guessed he was the shadow he touched. He looked at the three dragons behind him before walking closing to the hole.
"Are you sure? I've thought we've heard something... All of us did!" A dragoness cried out in a panicked whisper. She began backing away, closer to the rocky like wall. The only light source viable was a lantern. It was dying out, but there was more fuel for it to keep burning nearby. All dragons paused as they heard some scratching from the other side.
"I'll see if I can poke my head out alright Silva?" He said reassuringly and began to get even more closer to the hole.
"Don't! You'll get us all killed!" The green dragon called out, but Ulmous shook his head and continued regardless. There was a loud roar as that caused everyone to freeze. Blood filled with fear Ulmous gulped, and stared at the hole intensively.
He was suddenly knocked down by an unseen creature and began thrashing as everything else went into pure hysteria. The preying dragon started to muttering even louder as the green one held clutched his chest in pure horror as he watched his friend being mauled brutally. The dragoness just curled up into a ball and cried.
Glint felt the large amounts of stinging pain as the creature began to cut Ulmous brutally. He was resisting fiercely but was quickly losing strength. He heard a piercing, chilling scream from the creature, who was still unseen as it remained a shadow. It made his blood run cold. As Ulmous laid there as he finally lost strength, his blood was everywhere around him, and more came out of his wounds. He watched in horror as the creature got off of him and leapt at the dragoness, she died instantly as it snapped her back. It started to kill of everyone without mercy and finally paused as it finished. It quickly crawled through the hole and disappeared. Glint could feel his emotions, the pain, the shock, as his vision went dark as Ulmous died there.
"Vivid? Wasn't it?" Illumielle said she stared into Glint's brown eyes intently. The white dragon nodded.
"But... the creature..."
"It's long gone, you don't have to worry."
"What was it though?" He looked up at his mother, expecting an answer.
"Even I, don't know dear," she replied, Glint looked back at shadows which had disappeared. He returned his attention to the dragoness after a moment.
"Why do you tell me this? Why let me learn about these anomalies?"
"To understand the world, one must interact with the unknown," the dragoness looked back at the hole and she gestured to it. "I will guide you out of here. Follow me." She lost her form and became a bright orb that flew through the hole. Glint followed and saw she had resumed her form as a dragon, as she was sitting there with concern evident on her eyes. "You must get out quick. One shouldn't linger here."
The dragoness led Glint to an exit after what seemed like forever in the tunnels and he promptly climbed out, relieved he was out of there. He noticed his mother disappeared as usual. He took in some breaths to compose himself. After that the dragon saw how late it was and made his way back to Warfang swiftly.
Aurea looked out at the night sky. She was concerned as Glint wasn't here still, and the Guardians were about ready to start. She feared he was in trouble, maybe helpless... But what could she do? Disobey direct orders from the Guardians, much less her uncle? She wasn't bold enough, she never was. So all Aurea did was silently prey that he was safe, whilst fidgeting nervously.
Something caught her attention, it was a white speck way down in the street. She squinted, trying to catch a clear look as the speck became more and more visible. She recognized the speck as Glint weaving through the crowd as he made his way towards the middle. His scales were dirty and was covered with dirt which stood out like a lone flower in a field of grass. She let out a sigh of relief as the a loud drum suddenly boomed, resonating through everyone's ears. Aurea refocused her attention to the front.
As Guardian Terrador took his place in the front. "Welcome, citizens of Warfang!" His baritone voice seemingly echoed around the area due to its sheer intensity, "We are here to remember. To never forget those who had perished during the war and to especially remember our Fire Guardian Ignitus..." The yellow dragoness noticed Spyro had a glossy look on his eyes, he seemed sad. She knew why of course. Cynder was already in the process of comforting him. Aurea had a small smile as she saw this, she returned her attention to Earth Guardian. "Who had sacrificed himself to help our saviors Spyro and Cynder!" Terrador spread his wings out as the cloth that covered the large figure fell. It was a statue of Ignitus, on it were names of all those who had perished inscribed. The crowd cheered and some clapped. Mostly everyone appreciated Spyro's achievements, whilst Cynder on the other hand, was looked on with caution. Regardless, even with the doubts of trust they cheered for the dragoness as well. Glint looked around briefly and saw Fynir next to him, eyes glued to the front. Behind him was Sarin and Zethur closely next to his mentor. The white dragon looked back towards the front.
Aurea felt a familiar dragon take his place next to her. She turned her head to face Glint who grinned at her before gesturing to the front as they shouldn't be distracting themselves right now. Terrador had continued, "Remember citizens, be grateful, be glad, be sad, but above all else! Just do not forget those who had fallen for us to continue living, to continue our paths down the road of life!" Terrador took a few steps back as a melancholic instrument played a few notes before the drums started with powerful blows. Shortly after they were joined by other instruments and finally the choir joined in. Saying these words with along with the melancholic tune:
"For the Fallen here thee..." Everyone had their heads bowed at this point. As the sweeping motion of sadness filled everyone's hearts and mind.
It was repeated many times over the tune and soon enough it all built into one great and powerful, yet melancholic crescendo with the other instruments before ending. There was a mournful silence. No one moved, nothing stirred, just one long silence as everyone thought about those they had lost. Friends, family, neighbors...
"Thank you all for coming, we appreciate that," said Terrador as every began moving while in silence. Glint turned his head to Aurea, she had her eyes closed. A small tear escaped her eyes, the white dragon didn't notice though. As he already had his head back in the previous position.
"Aurea? Are you okay?" The dragoness opened her eyes and stared down onto the floor. Thoughts she didn't want to resurface just came. The dragoness turned her head away from Glint. Not wanting to show him that she was crying.
"I'm fine..." The dragoness suddenly dashed off sight before he could react. The white dragon didn't bother to give chase as he stood there with a puzzled expression. He pondered for an explanation for her abrupt departure.
"Hey Glint," Fynir appeared by his side. "Did you scare Aurea off this time?" He had a grin on as he said that. The white dragon pondered for another moment before answering as he shook his head.
"No. She just... I don't know." Fynir's grin dropped as he heard this.
"I reckon she went back to her dorm no doubt. But why?"
"I was thinking the same exact thing," the white dragon replied with puzzlement.
Fynir patted his shoulder, "Why don't you go check on her?"
"I don't think that'd be wise."
"Just go!" Fynir pushed Glint with enough force to make him stumble, he quickly made his way to the stairs and stopped as he looked back to see Fynir motion him on. He sighed and went up the stairs to Aurea's dorm. He stopped there, thinking about his approach to the dragoness. Should he just knock and come in or...?
Instead, he had a different idea. The dragon made his way back his room, passing through the seemingly endless stream of hallways. Upon reaching his dorm, he opened the door gently and went over to the nearby desk and pulled out a writing utensil and paper. He then walked back to Aurea's dorm and scribbled a message down hastily. A simple 'are you okay?' His penmanship was sloppy to say in the least. Not surprising as he never learned to write, but reading, was a different story. The dragon quickly proofread his message before sliding it under the door.
He then proceeded to wait.
He had his ears trained on the door, ready to listen for movement. It wasn't long before he heard movement as Aurea got closer to the door and picked up the message. She read it silently and then proceeded to write and reply. A moment passed before a small sigh from the dragoness came as the note slid out. She was aware of his presence otherwise she'd be going to his dorm to return the message. Glint picked it up, it read:
'I'm fine Glint. It's just some memories that I didn't want to remember came back. And no, I don't need your comforting... Sorry for that, I'm just upset. It's heartwarming knowing you care though... I guess you can come back tomorrow, I'll be ready for talking by then.
P.S. You need to work on that penmanship.'
Glint stared at the door after that, debating whether he'd reply or just go and obey the wishes of the dragoness. He decided to go with the latter and went back to his dorm with haste as it was late. Upon reaching his dorm he went inside and hopped onto his bed and sighed with solace as he thought on his plans for dealing with his brother. He stared at ceiling, eyes reflective and gleaming with sadness, he ceased all movements before closing his eyes and letting the freedom of sleep comfort his mind. And to dull his thoughts with an unrelenting compelling force. His last thought, was of tomorrow's actions.
A/N: Well, I've just exceeded my longest chapter... again.
Anways, I hoped you've all enjoyed the chapter. I've had a lot of enjoyment writing it.
Next chapter brings in the [redacted]. Sorry can't spoil it...
As usual, point out those pesky errors!