...
...
I feel a hand on my shoulder and open my eyes. Thankfully, I see my friend.
"Woah...are we..here?" I ask, unsure and unaware.
"We're at the "place" bro. We made it."
"We just...straight up walked through a portal." I look at him and the portal in realization.
He chuckles.
"Yep. You're right. We sure did. Dope right?"
"Dope." I nod and smile in agreement.
I observe the new environment around us. Instead of the previous boreal forest we were in, we've entered more of a tropical one. The sunlight happens to peak through the trees and slightly illuminate the forest floor, enabling more visibility. The portal is located in an area with less space to move, but enough to get to and from it.
"This is a nice change." I say as I point to the new habitat.
"Yeah, definitely. Easier to see and less creepy." My friend states.
I nod in agreement.
"So, where do we go from here? I mean, we've made it this far. There's gotta be more right?" I ask expectantly.
"Oh yeah. Despite the portal, this ain't even the main thing I brought you along for."
"Still not gonna tell me?"
He shakes his head.
"Nope. Still a surprise." He grabs his bag off the ground and faces in another direction. "We gotta head this way I believe. It's been a while, but I'm pretty sure I remember."
"Alright, I hope so." I slightly mumble.
"Aye, like you said. We've made it this far right?"
"True."
"So the rest of this trip is finna be a breeze." He makes a motion with his hand representing a breeze.
I nod my head in understanding and follow his lead.
About 15 minutes of traversing the foreign forest go by. By this point, it's apparent that the day on this world is approaching it's end as the sun noticeably lowers. We haven't been walking on an actual trail, but my friend seems to know where to go. He said he's only been here a few times and even if it was 10, I would still have to give him credit for his impeccable memory. His ability to navigate these forests with no problem is impressive.
"When's the last time you've been here?" I ask as we walk around a tree.
"About a month ago I'd say. So I planned to come back around this time."
"Do you know anyone else here?" I ask.
"Oh yeah, I know a few, and they're pretty cool too. We're about to meet em' in a little bit."
"Oh well, that's good."
"Yep. This walk doesn't take too long going this way thankfully."
I start to think about who possibly lives on this world. "Other people? Aliens? I've already noticed some animals in this forest but I still don't even know where we are. Has he shown anyone else this place other than me? Who or what does he even know is living here? Why does it look so similar to Earth?" As we walk, question after question runs through my mind and I begin to get anxiety from the unknown.
"I already see the light at the end of the tunnel."
My friend snaps me out of my momentary internal antics and I notice him pointing in front of us. I look and see a forest opening.
"So this is the way you usually go?" I ask out of curiosity.
"Yeah, this is the usual way. The first time I came here, I ended up lost and confused for hours until I found this opening. I was so happy man."
"I could imagine." I say, thinking of what it would feel like to be lost in here for that long.
I continue to look ahead of us, seeing an open field and trees on the other end. An orange sunset glow illuminates the opening.
My friend suddenly stops and I stop as well, looking at him and raising my eyebrow. He smiles.
"What?" I ask.
"Are you ready?"
"Ready for what?" I put my bag down temporarily.
"For what you're about to see? Forget the portal and all that. This?" he points to the opening."This is the real deal. It might mess you up bro."
I chuckle nervously.
"Um...what am I about to see then? Should I be worried?" I ask.
"Nah, not at all. Just sayin'. Since it's your first time here, you should probably prepare your mind a little bit alright?" He says and pats my shoulder.
"O..kay..thanks for the heads up then." I say and he removes his hand.
"No problem. And don't be worried. It's nothin' bad, unless things have changed since the last time I was here, but I doubt it though." He chuckles and continues toward the opening.
That sadly doesn't do anything to help my new given anxiety. I'm now even more worried than before of what I might see. "He said it might mess me up. What? What might mess me up? What am I about to see? At this point, it can be anything. He already just made me go through a freaking portal!" I continue to fuel my own anxiety as we approach the opening. I decide to approach with a little more caution and lag slightly behind my friend.
We get to the field and I realize that it's more of a marsh situation. There is a river that divides our side of the forest from another. I observe how the sun shines over the calm river water as it sets. The sky is a mix of blue, orange, purple, and pink.
"Wow. This is really nice. I guess we really should've brought some fishing gear." I say, observing the scenery.
"You know what? Now that I think about it, that wouldn't have been a bad idea. There's probably some great catches here."
We laugh.
"Yeah I mean, this looks like the perfect place for it. So uh, what should I be prepared for? I'm still a little lost." I say, feeling slightly let down, but enjoying the scenery nonetheless.
We hear a splash in the distance along the river, and turn to see what it is.
"They're who I wanted to introduce you too." My friend points in that direction.
I see about 3 long, slender, furry snake-like creatures congregating in and around the river.
"...Umm..w-what are they?" I mumble loud enough for him to hear.
He laughs and grabs my shoulder.
"Those..are dragons."
All I can process from what my friend has just said is,
"What?..."
"Dragons bro. Dragons. The creatures you'll find in movies, books, and all types of other stuff on our world. What we thought didn't exist on Earth, is just a regular thing over here. Just let it sink in."
And that's exactly what I attempted to do for the next minute of silently contemplating my beliefs as I glance at the creatures before me.
"You ready?" He asks after giving me some time.
I look at him and place my hand on my forehead. Ignoring his question, I ask,
"...Are you sure those are dragons?"
"Well, if you ain't convinced, then let's take a closer look." He says and wraps his arm around my shoulders.
"Hold up, we can just walk up to them?" I ask nervously.
He begins to walk forward, moving me along as well.
"Bruh, I told you. I'm cool with them. We hang out every time I come here."
At this point, I don't even know what to think. But all I know is that I'm even more hesitant and nervous than before. I'm drawn between curiosity and fear, questioning how much I've trusted my friend up until this point.
"Wait, woah, woah, wait a minute. Hold up bruh." I stop walking."You said those're DRAGONS though." I remind him to which he nods.
"Correct. Dragons that I'm cool with. We've interacted, hungout, became friends and developed trust. Even if we were just a random couple of dudes that got lost, they'd be hella chill and help us out. The dragons over here are peaceful and it's easy to vibe with them. You'll see."
I just shake my head and sigh.
"Alright man. It's just a lot to-"
"No way, Cam?"
We both look toward what called my friends name. A navy blue dragon with a dark blue mane peeking from the river next to us.
"Pura!? Bro how've you been?" Cam asks and walks closer to the dragon.
"Good, good. Just getting some swimming in with the friends. It's great to see you man."
"You too bro. How's the squad doing?" Cam asks.
"They're doing fine, they're actually right over there." The blue dragon points down the river to where the other 3 dragons are."We just came to get a regular swim in and I happened to find you."
Pura looks in my direction.
"And your friend too. Sup man, I'm Pura." He sticks his larger paw toward me.
My mind takes a moment to catch up with what I see in front of me. I slowly glance at Cam who gives me a thumbs up, before I slowly look back towards the dragon, Pura. "It's...a dragon. A dragon. What? A dragon? In front of me. Greeting me. Talking to me. There's, there's no way...right? That something so epic could be happening...right now. So insane, so nuts, so cool. So.."
"Hey uh, dude. Can't leave em' hangin' like that..." My friend says and snaps me out of my momentary daze.
I regain my awareness and instinctively stick my hand out to shake his.
"Oh um..sorry P-Pura. I'm Jared."
I meet his paw and realize how much larger it is than my hand. I feel his damp, soft fur and observe his claws, which almost cause me to flinch.
"Nice to meet you Jared." He says before letting go.
More realization hits me and I stare at Cam wide-eyed.
"I-I just shook hands with...a dragon."
They both laugh.
"Yeah, you sure did bro. Told you this was gonna be cool Jared." He looks at Pura."This is his first time here and seeing a dragon. So he's having a moment right now."
Pura nods in understanding and chuckles before beginning to backstroke in the river.
"Really? Well that's awesome man. Glad I can be the first dragon you meet. You're already off to a great start. And also, welcome to Kumandra."
Cam places his hand on my shoulder before repeating, "Welcome to Kumandra." While making a swinging motion with his arm.
"Wow, thanks guys. So, that's what this "place" is called huh?" I ask.
"Yep, sure is. A really cool and peaceful land for the most part." He explains.
"Some areas to avoid but, cool for the most part." Pura adds.
Cam nods in agreement.
"Let's see the rest of the squad, I've missed them too." Cam says and looks toward the others who were talking amongst themselves.
"Oh right, I'll call them over. Hey Amba, Aramis, and Juule! Cam's back!" He yells and almost immediately, all three dragons jump into the water and swim along the river toward us. In not even 30 seconds, they arrive and pop back out of the water.
"Welcome back Cam." A forest green colored dragon with a moss green mane approaches and fist bumps Cam.
I take a moment to observe their features now that I am a bit more composed. The size difference is evident between us and the dragons. They're clearly much larger than us, which is what I would expect when imagining a real dragon. Their features are unique and facinating. The first thing that catches my attention is their elaborate horns. Each of the four dragons have their own bizarre horn shape, design and color. I'd assume it represents them in their own way. The violet-pink colored dragons' horn is the one that facinates me the most. It's almost like a boomerang in the way it's shaped. It leans more toward pink than violet and contains stripes on the end facing upward.
Cam greets the other 2 dragons before introducing me.
"I brought a friend this time. His name is Jared." He points to me before introducing the other 3 dragons.
"This is Amba, Juule, and Aramis."
He points to the violet-pink dragon who's name is Amba, the green one named Aramis, and the multi toned Peach colored one named Juule. I wave shyly and they wave back.
"Welcome Jared." Aramis says and smiles.
"Thank you." I respond.
"So yeah. Just thought I should bring Jared this time. I think y'all will get along." Cam says.
We all nod our heads in approval.
"Agreed." Amba says.
"Yep. We're gonna have fun Jared, definitely." Aramis follows up with.
"What're we gonna do while we're over here?" I ask.
"Oh man, freakin' travel, play games, learn stuff, bond, eat hella, meet people. Basically, experience something new man." Cam explains excitedly.
"And you forgot flying." Juule adds.
"Oh, right. Also really fun." Cam says and I raise an eyebrow.
Pura laughs.
"The first time Cam came here and we took him flying, it was hilarious."
Cam sideyes him and smirks.
"Bruh, it was completely unexpected. This dude snatched me in the middle of a conversation and leaped into the damn sky so quick, I thought I was still on the ground for like 5 seconds."
This caused everyone to laugh.
"Wait...you guys can fly?" I ask, surprised.
"Sure can. It's in our nature." Juule says.
"And maybe we can take you flying as well." Amba adds.
"Not in the way Pura did to Cam though. A bit of a safer way." Juule adds and Pura chuckles.
"Pfft. Yeah, for real. But jokes aside though, it's an amazing experience. And dragons don't need wings. They've got magic. It's super dope Jared."
I nod my head as I imagine the craziness he's telling me. At this point, it feels like anything is possible.
"Wow. That's incredible. Can you also breath fire?"
"That's the same thing I asked, but nah they can't. Unless...ya'll were lying."
"Nope, still can't, and yet to see any dragons that have." Juule responds.
"That would actually be pretty cool though." Aramis says.
"It's getting kinda dark out. You guys wanna head back?" Pura asks the group.
Everyone agrees as we look at the sky, the sun nears it's lowest point. The 4 dragons then exit the water, exposing their true size and length. From a distance, they didn't appear to be this size. But now I am really in awe. I get a chance to observe their unique bodies, each probably as long as two Cam-owned lancer's lined up. They have lightly visible stripes along their backs, and interesting tailfins on the end's of their tails. I find myself stuck in another day dreaming state and notice Amba looking at me with concern.
"Are you okay Jared?" She asks while stepping slightly closer.
I shake my head from my daze and smile awkwardly.
"Yeah, sorry."
"No problem." She responds before chuckling.
"First time seeing a dragon." Pura announces and the others nod in understanding as if they get this reaction frequently.
"Makes sense." Aramis says and pats me on the shoulder.
We head toward a destination and I simply follow where the group leads.
We walk at a chill pace, learning about each other and talking about different topics. They tell me about their world and the different now united factions Heart, Fang, Talon, Spine, and Tail. They tell me about the multiplying evil called Druun that threatened to destroy the world, turning every living thing into stone. But Amba and her siblings used their powerful magic to stop them, causing dragons to remain as stone for hundreds of years. Until a few years ago when Amba's sister, Sisu, and her friend Raya completely eliminated them after they were mistakingly brought back into the world for 6 years. The gravity of this just makes me appreciate dragons and especially Amba even more. They gave their lives, hundreds of years of being stone, to save people and their kind, and would again if they had to. I feel priviledged and thankful as if they were protecting Earth.
They tell me about their culture, and what they like to do. And they ask me the same. Cam and I share different things about ourselves. We begin to talk about how we got here.
"Yeah. I honestly thought the path looked pretty weird. Cam, how did you even find that path anyway? It's hidden kinda well, and really far out." I ask.
"Well. It was back when my ex lived out that way before she moved and I would visit her. One time when I was heading back home from her house, I saw that path and was curious. So I went to check it out and saw the trail. I just felt like taking a lil walk, so I followed it, as sketchy as it is. And it was actually really chill and peaceful. Eventually during the walk, I happened to catch a glimpse of the portal. And my curiosity got the best of me. Then, eventually I ended up here. And happened to make some friends thankfully. My fate could've been different honestly."
"Well, I thank your curiosity." I respond.
"I still wonder. When can we go to your world?" Juule asks.
"Probably not a good idea. Most people wouldn't react to a dragon in the same way Jared and I have." Cam says.
"Yeah, true. But at the same time, it might be the opposite." I add.
"We just wouldn't want to risk y'all getting hurt or something. Information get's out real quick on our world with the technology it has. So if a dragons existence is exposed, then you might get snatched up, or worse."
"By who?" Pura asks.
"I don't know..the government or something."
I nod my head in agreement.
"But, like Jared said, some people react differently. So we might be able to keep y'all unnoticed while showing you different stuff."
"Maybe we can pull a superman and have them stay out in a farm somewhere. They'll have room to fly and be unseen in the middle of nowhere." I add.
Cam nods and chuckles.
"True, that could work too."
"Well, no rush. Maybe sometime in the near future. But right now, we're just glad you could come here and hang." Pura says and fist bumps Cam.
After what feels like 15 to 20 minutes of walking and conversing, we finally approach our destination. By this point, it's already night. We currently stand in front of a structure about the size of a small apartment building.
"This is where my siblings and I live. We've decided to all live in a single area together. It keeps us closer, but we are still able to keep to ourselves comfortably." Amba explains.
"That's good. It looks nice." I say, observing more of it's outside features.
"I'm guessing the others are chillin inside?" Cam asks.
"Yeah, most likely. Sisu's probably in Heart with Raya. And you know, Pengu, he likes to sleep as soon as possible. And I guess Jagan and Pranee are doing their own thing if not sleeping too." She explains.
"And you Amba, never sleep. As well as Sisu." Another voice says behind the group.
We turn around and see another dragon.
"And there he is. The king himself." I hear Cam say.
"And I thought you would be sound asleep by this time." Amba says.
"Well, I have decided to take a little walk."
I stare in slight awe at his appearance. What truly sets him apart from the others is his horn. It's unlike anything I've ever seen. It's...so unique, incredible, beautiful. It's like a crown. I begin to question how much it weighs considering the size of it.
"Greetings Cam. Hope you've been well as of lately." He says and fist bumps Cam.
My friend Cam...fist bumps...FIST BUMPS a Dragon King. This guy. He's gotta be the coolest dude I know now, next to Master Chief, and the dragon in front of me. Hard to believe what I'm seeing.
"Sure have Pengu. Just happy to be takin' another trip to this wonderful land."
"Glad to hear it. And I see you've brought a friend."
Pengu looks at me. That relaxed, calm, confident expression he has on his features gives off positive energy. His expression tells me there's nothing to worry about, just chill.
I end up sticking my arm out first.
"Hi Pengu. I'm uh..Jared." I say, almost forgetting my name.
"Greetings and welcome Jared. I would presume you're new to the sight of dragons?" He says whilst meeting my hand with his.
"Yep, and it's been pretty mind blowing. I'm still processing all of it."
"Well, take your time Jared. I can imagine it is a lot to take in at once. I told Cam the same. Very nice to meet you." He says before removing his paw.
"Y-You too. And I like your horn by the way. Really cool." I add.
He chuckles.
"Thank you."
He looks past me and slightly bows his head at Pura, Aramis, and Juule. They reciprocate and silently return the gesture.
"I'll be off to rest now. Once again, nice seeing you Cam. And nice meeting you Jared. We will have more time to connect during your stay." Pengu says while walking towards Amba.
"For sure." I say.
"Definitely." Cam says.
Pengu gives Amba a quick hug.
"Goodnight Pengu." She says.
"Goodnight." He responds.
He makes his way inside the structure.
"Well, that's my brother, Pengu. The oldest of the 5 of us. He's pretty cool." Amba says whilst smiling.
"One of the chillest dudes I know." Cam says.
"And always so down to Earth despite his stature." Pura adds.
"Right?" Aramis adds.
"Is he always so relaxed Amba?" Juule asks.
Amba thinks for a moment.
"I think I've only seen him angry like, once. And that was a long time ago. But 99 percent of the time, his demeanor is relaxed and unphased by literally anything." She explains.
"Angry? What was he angry about?" Aramis asks.
"I don't even remember really. I would assume it was something that really got under his fur though."
"Well, happens to the best of us." Juule adds.
"Very true." Amba responds.
We talk for a few minutes longer before agreeing to head to Pura, Juule, and Aramis' place.
As we walk for a bit, I start to look at the sky. Without so much artificial light on this world, the stars and constellations are extremely visible. And it creates a beautiful scene. The sight is unreal.
"Beautiful isn't it?" I hear Amba say next to me and look over, her focus directed on the stars above.
I stare at her for a moment, still processing what I am in the presence of. The moonlight shines over her magnificent violet fur, and I feel the sudden butterflies in my stomach as I almost get lost in a trance, nearly forgetting her question. She feels me staring, and turns to me, making eye contact. She smiles, causing me to smile. And then I realize, "Oh crap, I'm staring. Lemme stop that." And quickly look back at the sky.
"Oh..y-yeah it's uhh..really beautiful." I stutter.
I hear her giggle.
"Indeed. Do you ever see constellations like this in your world?" She asks.
"Sadly, I haven't had a chance to. The area I live in has too much artificial light to see the night sky on this scale. I think it's the same for Cam also. He doesn't live too far from me. But if we were to travel to a more open area, then we would have a better chance." I explain.
"Ah, I see. I'm glad that you have the chance to see this then." She says.
"Me too." I follow.
"Definitely something I'll never take for granite." Cam adds.
"Same" I respond.
A few minutes later, we arrive at the home of Pura, Juule, and Aramis. An understandably smaller one than Amba's and her siblings. It's almost like a dragon town home.
"Here's the place. Look the same as last time for you Cam?" Pura asks as we stand in front of it.
"Ah huh, it does. Just as nice as before. If I could live here, I would stay over here with y'all." Cam says.
"Aww, that's sweet. I wish. But really, you already live with us Cam." Juule says, placing her paw on his shoulder.
"True man. This is your home too and you could come and stay with us anytime." Aramis adds.
"You too Jared." Pura says, causing me to smile.
The fact that these dragons are so friendly and wholesome. It's just, beautiful. They don't have to be this kind. At least Cam's been here longer and bonded more. But they're still willing to help me out as well and give me a home and comfort, despite the fact that we've just met. Cam was definitely right about them.
"Thank you guys, for real." Cam says, smiling widely.
"No problem." Pura says and makes his way inside with everyone following.
The interior is comforting, with warm lights and decorations like plants and vases. There's a hallway on the right containing two entrances leading to rooms. And a larger room resembling a living room on the left. There is also a ramp leading to a second floor in front of the interior entrance.
"The inside looks great as always. Y'all keep this place more clean than mine." Cam says, causing us to laugh.
"It's true. He's been doing better though." I say, patting him on the back.
"That's good. I'm sure of it." Pura says.
"So, same set up as last time. We sleep in Aramis' room or the living room?" Cam asks.
"Whichever, it's up to you." Juule responds.
Cam thinks for a second, playing with his beard.
"Where did you sleep last time?" I ask.
"His room. But I guess I'll switch it up this time, see how it goes. Where do you wanna sleep?" He asks me.
"I guess for the first night...I'll sleep wherever you sleep." I say, knowing myself to be indecisive.
"Ight. Cool."
"Well, I'll probably head back now. Getting pretty tired myself, surprisngly." Amba says, followed by a small yawn.
She walks over to each dragon and hugs them saying bye. She walks over and hugs Cam.
"Goodnight Amba, see you tomorrow."
"You too Cam, glad you're back."
She faces me and swiftly embraces me before I could hug back. First time being hugged by a dragon. Wow. What a wonderful feeling. It's like a soft and furry blanket that gently wraps around you. So warm and comforting.
"Goodnight Jared. It was nice meeting you today. Can't wait for tomorrow."
I temporarily let my eyes close. The comfort, tempting my body to just fall asleep right in this moment. To give in to the sudden relaxation. But I catch myself.
"You too Amba. See you tomorrow. Goodnight."
After a quick moment she departs from the hug, to my temporary despair.
"Bye"
Everyone waves as she exits through the entrance. "That was enjoyable." I say mentally, wanting to retain that feeling for longer.
"I think I'm gonna head to sleep now." Pura says after yawning.
"I guess we'll all go to sleep then huh?" Aramis says while chuckling.
"Guess so." Juule adds.
"Alright, we'll see y'all in the morning then." Cam says and waves to the others.
We say goodnight to the 3 dragons as they depart to their rooms, leaving only Cam and I.
"So, we're gonna sleep in the living room?" I ask, pointing to the large room on the left of us.
"Yep. And I brought sleeping bags and pillows."
I chuckle.
"Dang, I would've thought we were on our way camping for real or something."
He laughs while walking into the room.
"Shoot. We could lowkey save them for an actual camping trip after this one. Maybe in that creepy ass forest."
I shake my head.
"Heck no bruh." I say, causing him to laugh again.
"Yeah, you're right."
Cam begins to lay out his black colored sleeping bag on the open space after handing me mine, a dark blue one. I begin to follow his lead and lay mine out about a foot beside his.
"Bada boom, bada bing." I say after finishing the process.
Cam removes his jeans and reveals shorts.
"I'm finna sleep good. I always do here. I don't know why though." He says as he gets in his sleeping bag.
"Probably cause it's peaceful over here. And this is a vacation right?" I ask whilst putting on my shorts.
"Yeah, that's facts." Cam responds.
I slide into my sleeping bag with ease.
"Pillows?" I ask.
"Oh right." Cam says, handing me a pillow and getting one for himself.
"Thanks"
"No prob. These things're comfy right?"
I place my head on the pillow and move my feet in the bag.
"Man, they really are. Where'd you get these? They make it easy to sleep on the floor."
"Ikea"
"Wait, for real?"
"Nah, I'm playin'. What's that place called? Outdoors or something?"
"Yeah, yeah I know what place your talking about. Outdoors World right?"
"Yeah, that place. Not the cheapest, but they're good quality."
"Appreciate it though."
"Yeah man, no problem. Gotta do what gotta be done."
"Right. Thank you Cam, for real. For all of this. This trip I would've never imagined."
"Caught you off guard huh? That was the plan, and I'm glad it worked."
"Yeah, it sure did man." I chuckle.
"I'm glad I could finally show you this world man. Something truly beyond imagination. It's just...so dope."
"Dragons are so cool bruh."
"I know dude. So damn cool, so fascinating. There's still so much for you to see. And there's still stuff I haven't seen yet."
"A whole new world bruh, like Aladdin."
"Facts. We finna do some dope stuff tomorrow bro." Cam says and moves his fist toward me.
"Agreed Cam. Lookin' forward to it." I say and bump his fist.
"Ima get some rest dog. See you in the morning." Cam says, turning over.
"Alright Cam, goodnight dude." I say and also turn over.
I pull out my phone and thankfully it still has good battery left. So I get my earphones and throw on some lo-fi to help me sleep. Something I've been doing for years. My mind races through thoughts as I think about today and tomorrow. Dragons. The only thing I can think about. These majestic creatures. Two dragons in particular keep popping into my head. Pengu and Amba. I'm still blown away by Pengu. The leader of the dragons. The most powerful dragon. He looks so cool. He is so cool. So down to Earth and chill. "What can he do with his magic?" I wonder.
And then I think about Amba. I don't really know why though. I mean, she's super cool like the others. But she gives me a different feeling than the others. I can't really explain it. But I felt something when we talked and hugged. Probably just because this is my first experience in this environment. But maybe because of something else as well.
I interrupt my racing mind and allow sleep to take over. Even in my sleep, I can still feel the excitement for tomorrow.
A/N: Had trouble trying to imagine where the dragons live lol. Hope it works though.