A/N: Well, here is the next chapter, relatively short yes, but at least we're moving along to the parts I want to get to.

"By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest."

–Confucius

Chapter 7 Trials of Resolve: Part 2

Once the dragon awoke, he cleared the thoughts that clouded his mind. He couldn't help but think about his brother…and what the outcome would be like at the end. This darkness that inhabited his body and took control of it; it sought to eliminate his brother. And if Glint were to succeed, Novac himself might have to die. Unless... His brother could free him somehow. He had doubts about the possible success of this try. It wouldn't be likely he'd succeed. He needed a push, if this attempt failed. The dragon made up his mind to gather strength and wait until his brother was at the final confrontation with his foe. That way, he could take advantage of the situation; the darkness would be distracted on the final duel with his brother that he could banish it from his body and mind. Then that way... he'd be free.

Freedom.

The mere thought of that was very enticing. He longed to see what has happened. From his guess, it seemed Malefor had been defeated by another purple dragon, otherwise the world wouldn't even exist. He also wondered if Cynder was alive. When he fought her that time, he sensed that the dragoness didn't appear to be who she seemed. She wasn't the Terror of the Skies to him. But rather a tool that was being forced to commit deeds she wasn't in control of.

The dragon wondered if any other light dragon families had survived the war. Their population was already in decline, mainly due to selective breeding type of rule. They only mated with other light dragons. It was mainly an ancestral type of tradition. This was to keep the blood pure and the element pure. His family, however, disregarded this tradition and as well as many others due to the war. As they all realized that the element of light would die out if they kept following the ancient tradition.

The dragon wanted to go the far north originally, up to the City of Socii. That city bordered the wolves to the northeast and was the hub of relations between those two nations. The northern city of Socii hadnt been touched in Malefor's war. That was because of the attrition the harsh winter caused, just like the other many invaders who tried. The winter, or rather 'Father Winter' as the residents called it, was the thing that prevented them from capturing the city. He mainly wanted to go to the north because of Sylia; she came from there and had suggested they move there. He had been reluctant at first. But agreed to move after the war... he promised. And he was certainly not going to break a promise like that, not even if she was dead.

He sighed before standing up. The dragon took one long glance at the bridge ahead. The long, almost narrow, but wider than the previous place's halls path. The dark substances that flew between the openings were fairly intriguing. They flew around the path, darting in and out of the stones that made the path itself. This could be a cause for concern, he couldn't just back out even if it did seem harmful. It could certainly mean 'end of the road' there, that could be his final trial there. He didn't know though, and was trying to determine anything else from his position here. As far as he could see, there was nothing else visible. Just a cloud of hazy fog-like darkness that obscured the anything further than his eyes could pick up

Novac took one long, reluctant step... he continued to move normally after setting foot on the pathway. So far, nothing seemed wrong or off. He noticed the dark substances flee from his presence, as if he was the harbinger of their doom. Perhaps he was, but not them specifically. He felt uneasy once more and began to cautiously approach the end, his eyes darting everywhere to spot anything, anything that could possibly harm him. The dragon soon stopped at the end of the bridge, high caution during the safe crossing seemed highly unnecessary at that point. But knew that was just the lucky times, it's easy to let your guard down after something as simple as that. He examined the area around him, the ground was littered with bones and remains of... whatever they were. The place had odd and dark plants around the area, some were glowing blue, and some looked like fungi. Novac swore that these places were getting odder, and in a way, unique. But he wasn't here to admire the flora. One question spawned in his head: was there fauna? His questions were answered by a large rumbling sound, at first, it was subtle, faraway. Soon it grew, thundering footsteps that indicated something colossal was heading his way. He looked around to find cover, but there was none. The dragon didn't want to drain his energy and yet, it was the only option available now. Novac closed his eyes briefly and cloaked himself; he knew this wouldn't last forever. But hopefully, it will last long enough for whatever is coming to leave. He soon saw it, it was a colossal beast as he had assumed by its footsteps. He could only see its outline; the rest was shrouded in darkness. The dragon suddenly heard a loud and almost ancient like roar. There was a bright flare of fire and the colossal creature was driven away by something above, its loud booming steps resonated sharply as it retreated. As it was being burned by... a creature with a snake or maybe serpent like body. It was flying and yet, it had no wings. This confused him. What is this thing?

Suddenly the creature landed... Right in front of him. And its large vermillion eyes were staring right at him. The creature had horns, but they were more like a stag's antlers, it seemed quite dragon-like, just more... snake-like. A serpent? No, it was a dragon. It definitely carried the same ferocity and prowess of dragon would have. "You, you are the one I have been seeking... Hôu. No need to hide yourself from me. I see you regardless. Do you know what I am?" The creature spoke in ancient tone; it was old and indicated that this... dragon is definitely an elder.

Novac de-cloaked himself, illuminating the area around him; it showed the creature on a higher detail. He recognized it, or rather, him. "You're... You're the one of the revered ones, in ancient light dragon history. Your kind bestowed us with the gift of light and we, in our gratitude, wished to repay your kind. Your kind refused the repayment, as our element was a gift from your kind to us... What is your purpose here sir?"

"I came here to guide you." He said in a low, ancient tone.

"Guide me?"

"Haíh. We have been neglecting our subjects for far too long. Actually young one, my kind hasn't even heard about this war with the Dark Master until... recently. Ngôh giu Jityùh, néih nē?" Novac was confused and he simply shrugged to indicate his confusion. The dragon spoke once more with patience. "What is your name?"

"Novac sir."

Jityùh let out a small rumbling, chuckle, "Néih m̀h'sīk góng jūng lùhng màhn..." He paused for a moment. "Do you know why I am here?" Waiting for no response the dragon spoke. "I'm here to guide you, youngling."

"Guide me? I could use the help actually. If you couldn't tell. Sir."

"Very well then," he gestured to the area ahead. Novac looked there; he scanned the area briefly and started to head there, taking the occasional glances back at Jityùh who was watching him intently. He noticed how there was no danger after that colossal creature from before was driven away. But how long until it ran into him or vice-versa? He figured he'd better hurry to a safer place if possible then. He wasn't sure how long or how much Jityùh could help him. But it was welcome help nonetheless. The two, or rather Novac himself began to walk towards the area. Jityùh was following him; he heard the massive serpent-like dragon take off into the air above. But he wasn't very close, where he was exactly, Novac couldn't pinpoint. The mere presence of Jityùh alone was comforting. The dark abyss spiraled and spiraled, and soon the path diverged into three ways. The oriental dragon landed next to him. "I'm afraid I can't help you decide on where to go. I have my restrictions too."

Novac looked at him with curiosity, "are you one of the ancestors too?"

"Just not one of the ones you believe in..."

"Is it because you're from–"

"Jūnglùhnggwok..." Jityùh interrupted. "Or the Oriental Republic as it's known now. It has many names, the latter being the most common."

"I see, whenever the Oriental Republic was mentioned in any text, there would be scare information on it."

"That's because of the isolationism." The oriental dragon replied. "But I'm not here to discuss about this... Would you like a piece of advice?"

"Which is?"

"The straightest path is not always the safest compared to the crooked path."

This left Novac at a moment of hesitation. Considering the dragon's words. He stared straight ahead at the center path before glancing at the other two. All three seemed straight... Unless. The white dragon started to walk forwards towards the center path. And soon enough, he noticed the other two paths were riddled with shadowy shades, their red eyes hungrily followed Novac. Until a shrill shriek from elsewhere drove them off. They hissed angrily and floated down into the abyss. Then suddenly, Novac felt a deadly chill pass through him, making him shiver. Which then, a large scythe, covered with blood and a dark essence cut the ground in front of him. And out came Kruzniyak, Ancestor, and Lord of the Dead. His soulless eyes gorged into Novac's.

"Young mortal. Know that I and several other ancestors have taken a degree of interest in you..." It said in a low hiss.

"Lord of the Dead... should I be concerned?" He asked cautiously, Novac began to wonder where Jityùh went as he stared back at the Ancestor.

It gave him a bony smile. "Thou shall not concern thyself with what the gods do." It or maybe he grinned and raised his claw. To which the scythe morphed into the deity's tail. Forming a scythe-like tail blade. Without warning, he brought it down behind Novac. And a small but pain filled hiss was audibly emitted from there and as the dragon turned his head, he noticed many more shades slowly moving towards him. Kruzniyak dully looked at the fallen shade behind Novac. "Another lost soul finally found its way to the collector..." It glanced at Novac. "I suggest you get going my mortal acquaintance.

Without another word Novac ran forwards. Without looking back he darted down the floating walkway and stopped at an exit. He watched as many shades, with their disfigured arms stretched out; headed towards him. The dragon heard a loud resonating crack as the pathway was engulfed by fire, then being surrounded by thick, black smoke, it disappeared. The large oriental dragon Jityùh landed gently beside Novac, his nose billowing smoke as he breathed out. Kruzniyak soon appeared from the shadows his three skeletal heads now conjoined as one instead. He and Jityùh seemed to share a glare at each other. "Eastern Lord of Enlightenment, it has been a long time since we've shared words," Kruzniyak said with a slight amount of distaste in his tone, along with the minor hint of a sneer, his nose puffing out a thick cloud of black smoke.

"Séi Yāt, I see our differences still trigger hostility," the dragon replied as he kowtowed slightly, keeping a neutral expression. Which Kruzniyak responded with a slight nod of his head.

"It has been ages, but my dislike of you has not dissipated even the slightest."

"I suppose you have an idea as to why I'm here?" The oriental dragon replied.

"I suspect it's because after a long time of ignoring your own little pet creations... You want to actually help them as they are nearly gone from this world?" Kruzniyak asked in his raspy voice.

"Haíh... But our neglect of our 'creations' isn't because of hate, but rather, a lack of communication. Who do they prey to at the altars? Mostly you and the others, my cousin. That is who."

"Enough. We shall talk about this later. But now, the mortal, he needs our attention." The two turned to look at Novac.

"Young dragon, you are not even close to being completely free. Only one from the outside can create your freedom. Freedom, right now, is a fruitless notion. But what you can do is ready yourself. Prepare for the right moment to strike, deceive your enemy into thinking you've gone docile."

"Can the Darkness not hear of our schemes?" Novac asked.

"No, we are deities, it is not. It has no power equal to ours," Kruzniyak said disdainfully.

"I see. So I have to bid my time before I can regain control of my body? And what if... What if Glint–"

"Do not fear death mortal. It is a natural process. Embrace it," Kruzniyak interrupted, assuming that he knew what the dragon was asking.

"I think he does not fear death, but rather, his brother having to 'kill' him in a sense," Jityùh mused.

"I see. You seem to have this under your control..."

"Haíh, but I am merely opening a door for him. Nothing more," Jityùh said with a slight nod towards Novac. Kruzniyak sighed and dissipated in a black cloud of thick smoke, as he had decided his presence was no longer needed. Or perhaps he had other things to tend to.

"Novac. Ready yourself for the moment to strike and take advantage when your opponent's weakness reveals itself..." The serpent-like dragon paused for a moment, "Néih sēui jāp séi gāi." He said, before letting out a quiet laugh.

Novac took his words into consideration. "How will I know when to strike?" He asked.

"I will come tell you, whether it'd be a sign or a personal encounter. Your opponent will rue the day when it comes."

The white dragon bowed to the venerated eastern dragon, "I thank you sir."

"No need to thank me Novac. I'm afraid this is where I'll have to leave you for now." The large dragon prepared to take off and fly into the dark abyss before Novac suddenly called out.

"Wait!" Jityùh ceased his actions and looked down upon the white dragon, patiently waiting for him to continue. "What about my brother? Will you visit him?"

"Your brother... is being watched by your parents, which I'm sure you already know. However, their time is ending as the course for his fate is set. They won't be able to visit either of you as he completes his goal set by your parents. Joi gin pàhng yáuh!"

The white dragon watched as the dragon disappeared along the darkness as he flew away. Novac sighed; he was so close to freedom. His brother was the key he needed to open the gates into the arms of freedom however. Or... his brother could end up sending him to the ancestors permanently, if he had no choice. That was. The only thing he could now, he realized; was planning and readying himself. As well as waiting patiently. The dragon lied down on the floor, his eyes watching the ever present rock-like islands nearby float about.

It was hours... No. Not hours... It was just a couple of long minutes that felt like hours to him. Novac knew he was beginning to lose track of time, as everything seemed timeless here. There was no day and no night. What could he base time off of? Nothing. Bored. The dragon lifted his head and glanced around. Nothing. He sighed and started to contemplate his time as a soldier during the war. He could recall many things before he was captured by Cynder at the valiant defeat near Warfang, as it was considered a Pyrrhic victory for the Dark Master's forces. He lost every one of his friends he made in that battle. He was personally glad that their sacrifice was not in vain. But at some points, he wished he had perished with them. The dragon chuckled at the grim thought; his mother would have scolded him for thinking such a thing. Novac flipped belly-side up and stared at the 'sky'. He missed the days before the war... the days where he'd go walking around the forest in the autumn breeze, scores of leaves with many different shadings of color falling drifting down to the ground lazily; or sometimes hectically–without any sense of direction and thought of consequence–blotting out the sun like thunderclouds would on a gloomy rainy day. Those days were always so truly remarkable to him, filled with wonder and mystifying allure. He sighed, his thoughts drifting ever so reminiscently, for he waited for his opportune moment. However, he felt he was forgetting something...

A/N: Special thanks to Unit Omicron for beating this chapter (part) and fixing my horrendous English.

Translations (for those of you who are curious):

"Hôu" = "Good."

"Haíh" = "Yes."

"Ngôh giu Jityùh, néih nē?" = "My name is Jityùh, and you?" Or, "I'm called Jityùh, and you?"

"Néih m̀h'sīk góng jūng lùhng màhn..." = "You don't speak (the) middle dragon language..."

"Jūnglùhnggwok." = Oriental Republic or Middle Dragon Country/Kingdom.

"Séi Yāt." = "Dead One."

"Néih sēui jāp séi gāi." = "You have to pick up the dead chicken." (Proverb, it has several meanings, in this instance, it means to take advantage of the situation.)

"...Joi gin pàhng yáuh!" = "Goodbye friend!"