AN: Back with chapter 16, gonna try to make it more interesting than chapter 15. I wasn't super pleased with how it played out but I'm gonna do my best here. I want the next chapter(s?) to be a little more lighthearted and wholesome before we get back into the main plot. R & R.
"We need a breather!" An elder dragon called ahead to the leaders of the massed formation of dragons high in the sky. Magnacia could only silently let out a sigh, she was eager for this flight to be over…but at this rate it would take ten years to reach Warfang. With the wounded, it was understandable…with some of the older dragons who simply liked to whine about a little ache in their wings, it was a fight against her own sanity. For their sake, she'd turn to Nix who had been flying alongside her, extending their wing some.
"Some of my people need a final breather before we reach the city!" Magnacia called over to Nix, who merely let out a frustrated grunt. She couldn't blame the older ice dragoness; she was eager to return to the safe walls of Warfang and out of the elements. More importantly, she was eager to return and hear the guardians' stance on her taking over as regent of the city, having discussed the matter the previous night before the flight began…deep down she questioned Nix's motives for wanting the position, but she'd never question her methods. She was a capable politician and diplomat…and knew how to micro-manage every aspect of a community down to the most minute chore.
Much weighed on her mind…but she couldn't let that show for now. She had to ensure her people made it to the city safely…and that meant not making a fuss when one from her community did so.
"Very well." Nix said, glancing to the ground far below, noting that they were nearing the grassy flatlands which surrounded Warfang, she knew there'd be enough room for Magnacia's dragons to land safely below them and to comfortably take back off.
"Cynder dear!" Nix called back, the black dragoness not far behind with Spyro at her side. Sparx at this point was comfortably tucked away in Spyro's travel pack for his own safety. Granite, Galacion, Storm, and Eletara were nearby as well in the formation. He said nothing, but Eletara could tell Storm was in need of a breather as well, his wings becoming more and more staggered in their flight pattern ever since they had left the settlement. "Would you care to use your wind powers to clear our vision? We need to land!"
"I-I'll try!" Cyncer called back, using her wind power to fly to the head of the group, Spyro giving her a reassuring grin mid-flight as she was given a chance to show her usefulness. Cynder, with a moment of silent contemplation and mustering of power, would begin to let out a slow cone of wind which began to carve a path directly through the clouds in front of them, the ground already starting to become more visible to the group of dragons.
"Very good, keep at it dear, lead us down and the rest of the formation will follow!" Nix called ahead to the black dragoness, who focused her wind breath a bit more precisely as she tilted downward into a steady glide. Nix, Magnacia, Spyro, and the rest of the formation steadily began to follow behind Cynder as she led the way to the earth beneath them. Enmasse, the group of just over a hundred dragons slowly lowered closer and closer to the bright green grass beneath them.
Cynder was the first to land after several long moments of descension, Spyro and the others soon following suit, touching down in the thick grassy woodland, able to spot the long stretch of flatlands which surrounded the dragon city, none could see it yet…but just off the horizon awaited their destination.
Spyro stepped up next to Cynder, offering that same warm smile to her.
"Good job…almost home." Spyro said softly, earning a laugh from Cynder, which had him raising a brow in question, which she took note of.
"Sorry…it's just…nice, you know? Home…to say I finally have somewhere which I can just call home. Friends to return to…a roof over our heads." Cynder smiled, glancing over the flatland, emerald eyes taking in the view as if she was staring over the wall of Warfang itself. "…someone special to wake up next to." Cynder said with a flash of those beautiful eyes to the purple dragon, who couldn't help but smile and lean over to rub his snout against her own, the dragoness closing her eyes and purring a little into the embrace.
Of course, the peace was broken when Sparx barged his way out of Spyro's travel bag.
"Jeez some people can hear you, ya' know?!" The dragonfly groaned, darting away to let the two continue what he only saw as nauseating mushy interaction. Galacion, Granite, and Eletara couldn't help but give an exaggerated 'awwww' all together as they witnessed the black and purple dragons embrace one another. The two quickly pulled away, a blush creeping up both of their cheeks, barely showing through their scales.
"Just when it was getting good." Granite chuckled, turning to approach Emera and some of the other dragons from the new settlement, Galacion tracking the earth dragon's movements carefully before approaching Spyro and Cynder. Storm likely would have joined in on the group fun of poking at Spyro and Cynder, but he was too busy regaining his breath…to which Eletara would see to once again now that they had a moment to recuperate.
"Doing alright sweety?" Eletara asked kindly of Storm, who just huffed in response. The electricity dragon didn't like to admit he needed help, but in times like these…he was ever thankful for Eletara by his side.
"I'll be fine…" He said curtly. "But…thanks for keeping to my pace…I hate slowing you down." Storm grumbled, to which she'd lean down and kiss him on the cheek as reassurance.
"Lucky for both of us, you're worth it." Eletara grinned toothily at him, to which Storm just chuckled in return, earning a laugh from Eletara as well.
Galacion would sit down on her haunches, turning to Spyro and Cynder once she was sure Granite was out of listening range so they could have a moment of private conversation.
"Is it just me or does Granite have a big pair of eyes for Emera?" Galacion asked the two, who couldn't help but nod in agreement.
"I mean it makes sense; we saw the way she fights- very much like him. Terrador always said earth dragons respect mutual strength and stalwartness…seems natural he'd feel some sort of draw." Spyro would pull out a dried cut of meat from his travel-bag rations, handing half of it to Cynder, who smiled as thanks before taking it.
"He's not the only one with eyes for someone." Cynder poked at the ice dragoness, biting down on the dried pork. It was only a little salted and was for the most part bland, but it was among the more appetizing rations they'd been supplied with compared to some other ration items.
"What do you mean?" Galacion asked, acting unaware of the observation Cynder and Eletara had made the previous night prior to the feast.
"Am I missing something?" Spyro asked, giving Cynder a curious glance. He hadn't been watching Galacion like the other two dragoness' in their circle during the previous evening around the bonfire.
"Oh nothing…just that Galacion was making cute eyes at Ignius when he offered her the spot next to him." Cynder smirked, earning a flustered look from Galacion, pursing her lips.
"Bu- I- er- No! No…he was just being a gentleman, he offered me a seat…nothing more!" Galacion frowned, rubbing a paw over her closest shoulder.
"Mmhm…as you say." Cynder smiled before having another bite. While Spyro wasn't really in on the gossip talk, it made him happy to see Cynder getting along…and opening up more. Three years ago, such an interaction with her was next to impossible. The progress she'd made in such a short time was spectacular.
"It's true! Leave it be, Cynder." Galacion huffed, earning a surrendering wave of Cynder's paws, to which the ice dragoness would ease up a little. Spyro hadn't considered Galacion having eyes for Ignius…granted, this wasn't really falling within his focus. He didn't fully understand the desire to gossip and poke fun regarding romantic interests…but if it interested Cynder, he was glad to listen.
"Well…what about Flame and Ember? Think they're together?" Spyro asked, earning a smile from the two dragonesses, Cynder being happy to continue speaking on a similar manner…while Galacion was simply glad to move on from the matter regarding Ignius.
Spyro could only be thankful Cynder was in better spirits, she had been rather glum the prior night after learning about the four eggs which had been saved from the temple. He knew Cynder didn't hold it against Ember or Flame…nor the other two dragons who had their eggs taken to Warfang before the temple raid led by Gaul. He felt the nagging feeling of survivor's guilt hitting him…while Cynder had many doubts swirling around in her head.
Perhaps she was merely putting on a mask? He couldn't tell…but he'd also wait until she was ready to discuss it further.
Ignius glanced over at the group of dragons from Warfang, taking several mental notes…he wondered what they were talking about, but they were out of listening range. Standing near his own circle, he'd glance back to his friends who had gathered up around him. Flame and Ember sat together, the drake taking several heavy gulps of water from his makeshift waterskin while the pink dragoness simply bopped her head side to side. Typhoon and his troupe were nearby…to which Ignius was not worried about. After his behavior the prior night, Ignius was giving him a wide berth. Emera was conversing with Granite nor far away with Ulris and the rest of the dragons in the Warfang Guard present.
Ember took note of his concentrated look, a soft smile touching her lips as she approached Ignius.
"Something the matter Ignius?" She asked, that comforting presence washing over the fire drake now, who just gave her a shrug.
"It's just…I haven't seen that city in over ten years. And the last time I was there, dad was with me. Ember I just…" Ignius glanced down, hesitating to say anything more.
"What is it Ignius? You can tell me." Ember said softly. Despite how nervous she often was, the pink dragoness was more than prepared to speak with others about their own baggage.
"…I'm afraid, Ember. I'm afraid to be back in Warfang without him. I'm afraid that every step I take in the city will just be a constant reminder that he isn't by my side any longer. Mother…she hasn't told me anything about her talk with Spyro and Cynder besides that he's gone." Ignius muttered slowly, failing to notice Ember shrink a little as a new presence approached Ignius from behind.
"You're right…we haven't discussed it." Magnacia's voice caused Ignius to jump, turning to face his mother now standing over him, before sitting down on her haunches. "With good reason…little kindling I'm not hiding this for my sake. I'm doing it for your sake. Ember, my dear, why don't you go see if any of the injured need any salves or fresh bandaging before we depart again." Magnacia turned her gaze to Ember for a moment, the pink dragoness bowing her head in response.
"Yes ma'am." Ember said simply, offering Ignius a slight smile before she turned to venture off into the large mass of dragons, leaving Ignius and Magnacia alone with Flame and Typhoon not far away.
"You say you do it for my own sake mum…but it's just frustrating. Frustrating to know you won't tell me anything else while I'm having to just accept that dad is de-." Ignius coughed on the word some, as if it tasted bad in his mouth. "-…dead. I worried if I'd ever see him again for over ten years mum, and now…I never will."
Magnacia wanted to cry a little…it physically hurt her heart to hear her son, usually so strong and sure in his goings and stances, speak in such a defeated manner. She kept a stern expression for now, this was not the time to break down into tears with so many eyes and earholes on her. She had to remain strong for Ignius and the community no matter the cost of uncountable tears.
"Your father…you're right that it is likely frustrating. But tell me son…would it do you any better to know how he passed now? Right in this moment…would it help you?" She asked, to which Ignius would give her a perplexed look, but he gave no direct answer. She knew why and it was because he didn't have one. He was just twenty years old and had been hidden away from the old war for so long…he had little to no experience with loss…not like her, after several hundreds of years worth of war and destruction.
He remained silent.
"No…it would not. What it would do is weigh you down with doubt, my child." She'd reach down to slowly rub along his scaled head softly, doing her best to comfort him. "I have enough doubts pressing on my shoulders…but you need to be strong for your friends a while longer yet before we reach Warfang. I swear to you, once we settle into the city, we'll sit down and talk about what Spyro and Cynder told me."
"Promise?" Ignius asked, earning a slow nod from the older fire dragoness.
"I promise. Now be a good lad and pass the word along that we leave in twenty minutes." She'd urge him along with her right wing. While he hesitated a moment to leave her side, the young fire drake would nod, heeding her command as he ventured off to spread the word.
She wondered if she was doing the right thing, not sitting down to discuss Ignitus' death with their son yet. Deep down she asked herself what Ignitus would do in her place.
'Hah…he'd be just as lost as I am right now.' She thought to herself. 'He may have been even worse off.' Magnacia glanced over to Nix, and then Galacion. Then her eyes turned to Emera sitting next to Storm. The wife of Cyril and his daughter not far. Volteer's daughter present as well…they were constant reminders that she had lost apart of herself with her husband's demise.
'Perhaps Terrador will be receptive to my plight.' She'd muse, before shaking such thoughts away. This would do her no good now! With a grunt and puff of smoke flaring from her nostrils, she'd return to the head of the formation next to Nix as she prepared for the next takeoff.
"So, Typhoon…that drake is up for guardian apprenticeship?" The ice drake near Typhoon asked him, he simply nodded in response as he glanced back to Storm. "Also have to wonder how he scored a dragoness like her."
"Aye, Insi, they are...from what I've heard they aren't an apprentice yet, but that's likely to change before long." Typhoon said unimpressed, before shaking it off. What made the other electricity dragon think he was worthy of being a future guardian…because he was one's son?
"I bet you could knock him off that pedestal real quick. If he struggles just flying, he won't last." The earth dragon muttered, earning a quick glance from Typhoon…who had to think on those words for a moment.
"Don't be so sure Vek…he may be a weak flier, but that's not what our kind specializes in. He's likely a better student than I and has had the fortune of learning from the current standing electricity guardian…but make no mistake gents, I fully plan to be heard and seen…at the end of the day, I'm not letting Ignius get all the glory of becoming an apprentice." He eyed down the fire drake after Magnacia had departed.
Any further conversation was cut short when a horn rang out- that was their cue meaning that the rest break was over.
"Well that's that then…see you guys in Warfang." Typhoon said firmly, stretching his wings one last time.
Vek gave him a look.
"You've never seen the city, have you Typhoon? Your family was from the outskirts in one of the old towns." Vek cocked a brow, earning a nod from Typhoon.
"Yeah…I'm curious to see just how great this dragon city is." He'd say before extending his wings once more in preparation for the takeoff.
Spyro would open his travel pack as Sparx would come flying in once again, seating themselves as comfortably as they could manage between armor and supplies.
"Next time I'm getting a blanket or something, gets cold in this thing!" Sparx whined, before Spyro would finally buckle the bag closed once more. The purple dragon turned to Cynder, offering her a smile.
"Ready?" He asked, getting a slight smile in return.
"Definitely." She said before the two lifted into the air with a mighty flap of their wings, soon being followed by the entire community of dragons following suit.
"Fly now to Warfang!" Nix would call out; the order being sent down the line of the formation.
The rising noon sun over Warfang was pleasing to Terrador. He appreciated quiet, calm moments such as these…but as a warrior, during the war this was usually seen as the calm before the storm. But for now, he simply enjoyed the peace while it lasted. Warfang had sent out messenger falcons to Tall Plains and Munitions Forge…and to his glee, both responded.
The manweersmalls and the atlawa had responded with acceptances of Warfang's invitation to discuss new terms with the city and the dragons. Once, Warfang was the center of all trade in the dragon kingdom…it would never truly reach such a shining moment ever again, but if they could restore commerce, then it would all be worth it.
His moment of peace was interrupted when he heard the clanking of armor rapidly approaching…he wore armor enough in the past to recognize the sound of metal plates and chainmail working in unison. He opened his eyes after taking a deep breath before turning to face a guard approaching, the fire dragon was panting…he was rushing himself, but the alarm hadn't sounded so there wasn't a threat approaching the wall.
"Terrador, sir!" He inhaled, offering a quick salute, to which Terrador would wave down.
"At ease guard, take a breath and then report." Terrador said simply, turning his entire lumbering body to face the other dragon now, raising a brow now as he waited for them to speak. Once they seemed to slow their breathing down, no longer taxed, they'd clear their throat.
"Sir, the western wall's guards just sent word that a massive formation is approaching the wall!" He stammered.
"Grublins?" Terrador asked, wings extending as he immediately prepared to take flight to the western wall.
"No sir, they said it looked like dragons!" They said now, and in that moment Terrador felt his warrior's demeanor falter.
Dragons?
"How many?" He asked after a long pause, trying to not give off any emotions for the guard to read.
"Unsure sir, they just said to find you immediately…but they said it was vital I bring you to the western wall." The guard said now. Terrador didn't hesitate a moment longer, his massive wings lifting him into the air, gesturing to the guard.
"Go find Volteer and Cyril, tell them to await me in the city's square below the tower!" Terrador ordered, to which the guard would simply offer another salute before immediately taking flight towards the guardian chambers at the top of the tower. Terrador, however, took off to the western wall, far too worked up now to simply relax. He had to know…he had to. Had one of the search parties been successful?
The flight took only a few minutes, the mighty earth dragon landing on the wall, the three guards stationed to the wall were rushing about as they moved to get a better view of what had been reported by the watcher…and the sight alone gave Terrador pause. Just off in the distance over the wall appeared to be a large cloud approaching the city.
His eyes failed him from age at times, but they were laser focused now…and he could see a plethora of colors before him. The guardian felt as though his heart might stop from sheer joy. The three guards didn't fully know how to react as they watched the massed formation of dragons approaching the wall…but Terrador knew the words to speak. He had a duty to do, and he'd see it through.
"DRAGONS APPROACHING!" He bellowed out, taking to the air once again as he sought to get a better angle. "To your stations, I want a constant watch on the perimeter as they're entering the city!" He'd command, the three Warfang guards moving to their posts on the wall while a formation of mole fighters moved into their battle stations including the cannon along the western wall above the gate…Terrador would take no chances today.
His sight cleared more, and he could spot a shade of purple mixed in at the head of the formation now…Spyro! Terrador would fly out towards the oncoming formation of dragons now, wishing to join their formation and guide them to the center of the city.
"Welcome! Welcome!" Terrador called out, and soon he'd fly in range of those leading the formation.
"Terrador! We've returned!" Nix called out, to which the earth dragon would smile before he turned hard, calling back to Nix and those around her.
"Guide them to the center below the tower!" Terrador called to them once more, before the earth dragon would soar across the sky over Warfang to help lead all the dragons in as neatly as they could manage. It was already growing increasingly chaotic as the formation consisted of easily a hundred dragons roughly. But with Nix, Spyro, Cynder and the others leading the group and corralling them there, it wasn't long before the mass of dragons were circling around the Warfang tower before quickly gliding down to the ground in groups.
Cyril, Volteer, and Tempest were all in utter shock as they witnessed this massive group of dragons from varying races and ages enter their city…as if a floodgate had opened. But there was one emotion they all shared in common at this very moment.
Relief.
For the very first time in centuries, now before them landed enough dragons to truly breathe some life into the aging walls of Warfang…to finally populate their city once again and give its continued existence true meaning once more.
Terrador would land, soon after Nix would as well. Spyro, Cynder, Granite, Storm, Eletara, Ulris, and the three dragons from the Warfang guard they had sent along as an escort landed behind the matured ice dragoness…and with them the small army of dragons who had appeared just over Warfang's walls moments ago.
"Terrador, what's going on?!" Cyril asked aloud now, moving to the earth dragon who was looking positively elated.
"Hope has been restored my friend…that is what's happening." Terrador would respond with a smile.
Volteer for once was speechless, but he was equally as joyous in this instance…beyond the dragons showing up on their front doorstep, he was merely happy to see Terrador smile about something for the first time in so long. The earth guardian rarely did anymore, and it weighed on Volteer to see him in such a bad way.
Today was a good day.
"Terrador!" Nix shouted above the commotion, approaching the earth guardian with the rest of her search party behind her. "I present to you our findings…I recommend we file them into groups and have mole attendants guide them to their new housing assignments…our party needs a rest."
"Worry not Nix, we'll handle it from here." Terrador said before turning to Ulris as the fire dragon and his fellow guards approached. "Bring me some of the guards from the western wall, send for Mason to have an entourage of mole attendants, and then get some rest Ulris."
"Yes sir, Terrador!" Ulris saluted with his right paw, turning to Spyro, Cynder and the others. "I leave you all in good hands young dragons. We'll speak again in due time I hope." Ulris said with a broad smile, earning curt nods from the young dragons before him. He'd take to the air; the other three guards following after Ulris.
"All of you…this…" Terrador inhaled, glancing down to the group of young dragons he had sent on the mission. "This is more than we could have hoped for…but you should all go get some rest now." The earth guardian smiled, but the group of young dragons didn't budge yet.
Spyro took quick note that the others hadn't moved either, a smile slowly creeping onto his face now.
"I think we're all good staying a little longer to help where we can." Granite said firmly, earning a respectful bow of Terrador's head.
"Very well, I'll pull you lot in if we need you-." Terrador went rigid as he turned back to the crowd, seeing something which stopped him dead in his tracks. Cyril, Volteer, and Tempest looked over and also suffered similar reactions.
Cynder and Spyro quickly tracked their gazes to Magnacia, who stepped forth from the crowd with an older earth dragon to her left, Ignius to the right…and a dragon who they hadn't spotted in the settlement at all.
They were likely an ice dragon, but it was clear they were far older than any other dragon present…the telling sign being that they were an adult but had grown smaller than the rest of the adults around them. Their eyes had a milk-colored hue over them which visibly marked their age. Sparx quickly shot out of Spyro's travel bag and took note of the situation developing before them.
"Who's the old gal?" Sparx asked, receiving a quick swat from Spyro.
"Show respect, Sparx." Spyro said firmly, shutting him up quickly as they bore witness to the reunion. The only hindrance being the amount of talking and commotion from the community of dragons which had come to the city with the search party.
"M-Magnacia?" Terrador asked, barely able to hear his own voice before he cleared his throat. "QUIET!" He boomed out, the force from his baritone voice almost enough to shake the ground beneath them…it worked in making the crowd fall silent now.
"Apologies, to all of you, I'm sure many of you are tired after the journey here and I promise each of you, we'll get you all sorted and into homes of your own in the residential district. But to do so, we need help from each of you. For any families or groups, please defer to Cyril for your assignments." He'd gesture to the ice dragon on his flank. "For any individuals, you'll come to me in just a moment. For any elderly or wounded, please defer to Tempest!" He'd point to the electricity dragoness. "And for any children or dragons under eighteen not apart of a family or group, please see Volteer for assignments to be assigned with a caretaker. We'll begin sorting through all of you as soon as our mole assistants arrive to help get each and every one of you settled into your own homes here in the city. Thank you!" Terrador finished, turning his attention to Magnacia and her party now.
"I…it's been a long time." Terrador said softly, earning a nod from the fire dragoness.
"It has." Magnacia said in return.
"Rhadal…Ler…they were with you all along as well?" He gestured to the earth drake and old ice dragoness with her.
"They were…much happened which the guardians were not aware of." Magnacia responded. Ignius didn't speak as his mother spoke to Terrador, who hadn't seen him since he was still a hatchling. Terrador's deep green eyes focused on Ignius now, as if he had seen a ghost…in truth, it was merely because he now appeared so familiar to the guardian.
"Ignius?" Terrador asked softly, leaning his large head down to face the young fire dragon, who could only nod in response.
"Aye, Terrador…I imagine it's been a long time since you saw me." Ignius said now.
"A lifetime it feels like…but we'll have more time to speak. Magnacia, do you remember where the meeting hall is atop the tower?" Terrador would ask, earning a nod from Magnacia now. "Good…meet us all there in three hours time…we have a lot to talk about and now isn't the time. We need to get your people sorted through."
Magnacia gave the Earth Guardian a quick nod, gesturing for her troupe to follow after her out of the way. Terrador would turn back to Spyro and the others again.
"All of you, I implore you to get some rest…meet us back at the meeting chamber in three hours. I know you all want to help, but you've done more than enough for us today…let us handle this at least." Terrador implored the six young dragons, who gave each other unsure looks.
Galacion was the first to speak.
"Come now you lot, I think we could all use a good nap. We've been on the move for days now…I believe we've earned the rest. The guardians and Tempest need space to work, and we need to let our wings have a break." Galacion reasoned, to which none of them could really argue with the value of her words.
"I guess a quick rest couldn't hurt…" Granite grumbled, like a hatchling who priorly claimed to not be tired.
"Probably not the worst idea yeah…we'll see you all in three hours then." Storm spoke now, gesturing to Eletara. "Coming?" He asked her.
"Yeah…I'm ready to close my eyes for a little while. Maybe we could get a quick lunch from the market district." Eletara suggested, earning a smile from Storm.
"Whatever you want." He said with a chuckle, the two walking off now. Soon enough, Granite and Galacion diverted off their own separate ways, leaving Spyro and Cynder alone with Sparx and the crowd of dragons now splitting into lines.
Cynder slipped up alongside Spyro now, offering him a slight smile.
"Come on…I know you want to do everything you can to help, but the best thing we can do is let Terrador and the others do their part and return in three hours." Cynder reiterated what Galacion had previously said, to which Spyro would finally relent, shoulders relaxing some.
"Alright…let's go back to the suite." Spyro let out a sigh. While he wanted to help, he was also relieved to be given a chance at rest after the brief night of sleep they had.
"Dunno why you lot don't want a chance at naps without making a fuss, you know how many times I just wanted to nap when we were fresh out of the swamp on this crazy adventure?" Sparx darted around the two as they left the city center.
"Well, the difference between you and the rest of us Sparx is that some of us actually provide more to what we do than running in fear of every little thing." Cynder smirked at the dragonfly.
"H-hey!" He gasped, earning a laugh from the black and purple dragons as they walked side by side.
Hours had passed…three hours since the dragons arrived to Warfang from Magnacia's community. Spyro and Cynder flew side by side after leaving their suite. The two had fallen asleep almost as soon as they reached their bed in the time it had taken for the mole attendants and guardians to get the new arrivals sorted into the city. Judging by the fact they could still spot a few attendants guiding groups of dragons around the city, they guessed that the guardians had just finished sorting through the final dragons not long ago.
The two had left Sparx behind in the suite, the dragonfly was still fast asleep when they woke. Both had figured he'd rather sleep a while longer and decided to let him do so while they ventured to the council chambers. They spotted Granite and the others arriving to the great door of the chambers leading to the meeting room…with Ignius, Flame, and Ember as well.
"Ah, hey you two." Granite waved a wing towards them as they landed, Galacion at his flank. "Sleep alright?" He'd ask now.
"Yeah…maybe a little too well, I was more than ready to keep sleeping." Cynder said with a long stretch of her lithe body while Spyro chuckled in response, his wings stretching once before folding as usual.
"I hear that…lunch was lovely." Eletara smiled at Storm, who just cheekily smiled in return as she did the same.
"Mother and our community leaders are already inside with the guardians; shall we join them?" Ignius asked now, looking a little anxious for this meeting.
"Lets, I'm eager to hear what they have to talk about." Galacion would walk past Granite now, approaching the main double-doors leading to the inner chamber now. The others would follow after the ice dragoness warily, almost fearing what would happen as they entered, before she pushed open the doors. The chamber hadn't changed in the time they were gone…but it felt oddly silent. When they found the meeting table, they saw the Guardians, Nix, Tempest, Magnacia, and the other two dragons with her.
"Good, we're all here then…I hope you all managed to get some rest." Terrador broke the silence now. "Young dragons, please find seats at the table. Nix has told me already that you all performed with great intuition on the mission and in getting those dragons to the city…well done." Terrador said with a bow of his horns.
"It's simply amazing that an entire community of so many dragons managed to hide for so long in such a simple yet well-hidden location. Stupendous! Marvelous! Dragons fill the streets of Warfang once again!" Volteer said cheerfully.
"Yes! It's been far too long since the city was even this lively, you all did wonderfully in bringing so many to the capital city to fill our empty homes once more." Tempest chattered alongside Volteer, Eletara simply rolling her eyes as her parents went on their wordy tangent.
"Indeed." Cyril cut in, clearing his throat now. "Simple words can't describe what this means for the dragons of Warfang…but perhaps these words are a good start…well done young dragons." He'd add, one of his massive wings draped over Nix's back now. "But gather 'round and listen in…we have much to discuss…starting with Magnacia's return."
All eyes fell to Magnacia now, who gulped some.
"Ignitus always feared something bad happened to Magnacia, it seems he was wrong about your fate…to which we're glad." Terrador spoke again. Spyro and the others simply listened as the older dragons spoke. "I'm…sorry about what's happened…it does weigh heavily on me that Ignitus never got a chance to reunite with you and Ignius."
"The fault is not yours Terrador…that falls to Malefor…but I understand a funeral is being planned?" Magnacia asked, the Earth Guardian nodding in response.
"Indeed, we're going to do our best to commemorate Ignitus' sacrifice to honor what may have been the sole act which ensured victory." Cyril set some scrolls onto the large debate table, sliding them over to Magnacia who would slowly unroll them to study each one.
Spyro and Cynder hadn't known when a ceremony would be held for Ignitus but hearing it in talks with the guardians gave them the impression that it was now closer than they had anticipated. While Spyro felt dread as he feared how he'd be able to hold himself together when it finally happened, Cynder was secretly glad. She knew that with so many dragons in the city, they'd have an attendance worthy of the former Fire Guardian's sacrifice…as well, it was time they finally sent Ignitus off with some dignity.
"We can discuss the details of my husband's funeral later…personal involvement will be discussed with individuals. For now, I believe you brought the purple dragon and others here to bear witness as old customs demand the candidates for the Warfang Council be presented before citizens of the community." Magnacia spoke curtly, straight to business. "But first…I have two young dragons to present to you guardians."
That caught their interest…Spyro glanced over to Granite and Galacion, gaging them for potential feelings on their presence…Granite seemed a bit uninterested in the entire meeting the moment political talk came into the matter. Galacion's eyes were locked on their elders as they spoke, not wanting to miss any details…she was most certainly her mother's daughter. He then glanced over to Cynder- who seemed to be doing the same as him. She studied over Eletara and Storm- the two seemed moderately interested to listen…Ignius seemed to be with his own thoughts. He was likely still sore over the news of his father's fate.
Spyro glanced back over to Granite and Galacion, silently getting their attention with a stretch of his wings before gesturing over to the fire drake's blank expression.
Granite silently smiled, glancing over to Galacion as he tilted his horns their way, to which Galacion nodded in return before the two of them got up and shifted positions to go to Ignius' flank. Ignius twitched a little as Granite gave him a pat on the back with a strong paw. Galacion sat down on her haunches, leaning over to silently speak.
"Are you alright?" She asked softly, to which Ignius really couldn't find a proper answer to give her.
"I…that's a lot more complicated to answer than one would think right now." Ignius let out a heavy sigh. Galacion and Granite felt for him, but they didn't budge.
"Want us to just sit here with you?" Galacion asked.
"I won't force you to…but the company is welcome." Ignius said quietly, giving her a slight smile as she and Granite remained close to Ignius' flanks, the fire drake now seemingly given a new sense of life to pay attention to his mother and the rest as they spoke.
"I present to you both Flame and Ember…born of the Year of the Dragon." Magnacia gestured to Flame and Ember.
Volteer, Tempest, and Cyril seemed to visibly freeze…all sets of eyes on the two fire dragons as they made themselves known.
"Uhhh…hi." Flame nervously waved, while Ember shyly hid by Flame's right side, doing her best to look as unnoticeable as possible.
"W-when you told me some eggs had been taken from the temple, I never imagined we'd see the hatchlings from those eggs." Volteer eyed them over curiously, Tempest remaining silent for a moment as she did the same.
"I concur…but it warms my heart to see them here, alive and well…you two young dragons may not realize it, but you both standing here is a victory in its own right." Cyril would address them both.
"Flame…Ember…welcome back to Warfang." Terrador gave them both a neutral expression.
Flame seemed to brighten up some, nudging at Ember's side some.
"Thanks! I…don't remember much of the city but I'm glad we're finally here again." Flame nodded his head.
Ember cleared her throat now.
"I…yeah…comfortable as Magnacia had us in the sanctuary, I'm glad to be home." Ember added, trying to avoid making eye contact with the older dragons studying her. Volteer and Tempest could visibly barely hold back their endless questions regarding Ember's unique appearance…but the look Nix gave them both halted them dead in their tracks.
"They haven't received special training to fully discover their abilities pertaining to the Year of the Dragon…I'm requesting they train with Volteer to hopefully unlock these abilities in due time." Magnacia spoke formally to which Terrador would nod in response.
"They'll have it…you both may now sit down at the table." Terrador would wave them both along, letting the two dragons now remove themselves from the spotlight as it was clear they wanted to be far away from it.
The two slipped past Magnacia, now finding themselves next to Spyro and Cynder. Spyro smiled at the two dragons, Cynder leaning forward so she could listen in as well.
"After this is over, do you two want to see some of the city with us?" Spyro asked, Cynder eagerly nodding in agreement with the purple dragon.
"I-I don't want to impose on you both." Ember said quietly, but Flame would nod.
"We'd love to." He turns to Ember, giving her that contagious smile he was capable of, to which she couldn't help but give a slight smile in return.
"A-alright. We'll meet you after the meeting ends." Ember added.
Magnacia would move to the side now, allowing the earth and ice dragons to step forward now.
"By my eyes, I hardly believed it at the city square and even now…Ler. It has been too long, master." Cyril bowed his head.
Spyro and Cynder could hardly believe they missed these two dragons in the settlement…but perhaps Magnacia intended for them to be out of sight until they knew their group could be trusted.
"Indeed, my student…I hope you managed to temper that staggering ego you had as a guardian apprentice." Ler spoke, her voice low and a bit gravelly, holding many years of experience.
"I'd…like to think I'm a bit better now." Cyril smiled, as though if the Ice Guardian could blush, he would have in this moment. He turned to the young dragons gathered at the table. "Young dragons, this is Ler, the dragoness who trained me when I was but a young drake in guardian training."
"I apologize for not meeting you young dragons sooner…could the dragoness Cynder please come closer? My eyes fail me at this age and I'm afraid I've lost my sense of color many winters ago." Ler requested, to which Cynder went a bit rigid now…before she got up from her haunches, giving Spyro a confused look before she'd move around the perimeter of the table.
Soon, she'd stand before the old ice dragoness, who leaned down closer and closer to the former Terror of the Skies, those milky hued eyes meeting her emerald ones…as if staring into her very soul…studying her.
Cynder felt her muscles grow tense after staring into those milky eyes for what felt like hours to her…in reality, Ler was merely studying the black dragoness for mere seconds, but what she was searching for in Cynder's green eyes was unclear to all who witnessed.
"I sense regret…doubt…but remorse, courage, bravery, selflessness…all quality traits in a dragoness such as yourself. Many told us to fear the Terror of the Skies…but I do not see them here. I see before me Cynder, one of the heroes of the age. Let it be known, as my first action as elder of Warfang, given the title by the guardians themselves…is to state that you will always be welcome in Warfang." Ler's hardened demeanor didn't break, but her words radiated with kind intention, which struck Cynder's heart like a bolt of lightning.
"Elder? Then…the vote has already been cast?" Galacion asked aloud, earning a nod from Terrador.
"It wasn't much of a vote…the elder of the council must display wisdom to help keep the council in line and true to their goals…Ler is an unmatched fit for the role. We decided she should take the position…and she accepted…we are one step closer to having a reformed council" Terrador spoke softly, trying to not interrupt Ler as she placed a gentle paw on Cynder' shoulder, gently squeezing it before pulling it away.
"I…thank you, Elder Ler…I promise you I'll do my utmost to prove worthy of the honor you've just given me." Cynder smiled, glancing over to Spyro who gave her a cheery smile in return.
"Your actions speak loud as is…I look forward to it." Ler smiled, turning to take her position at the table now. Cynder would blush, returning to Spyro's side as she leaned against him some. Her muscles felt a little wobbly, having received something truly special.
Acceptance and acknowledgement…such a thing could not be easily challenged by anyone holding ill towards Cynder for her past. This was a true chance for her to begin living somewhat as a normal dragoness once again. Spyro's left paw slid forward, to which she didn't hesitate to intertwine with her right.
"And I present my suggested candidate for General, Rhadal." Magnacia gestured for the earth dragon to step forward, Terrador leaning forward as the two earth dragons met gazes.
"You've looked younger." Rhadal spoke in a commanding, gravelly tone. Terrador perked a brow, letting out a puff of air some from his nostrils.
"And you thinner." Terrador challenged…in this moment, the room seemed to shift uncomfortably.
"Are you saying I've gained weight, old friend?" Rhadal asked, as if he was legitimately offended by the mere idea.
"Yes, as a matter of fact." Terrador said bluntly.
Rhadal seemed to be trying to hold in his emotions, doing his best to match Terrador's stone-like expression…but after over a minute of continued silence, the aged earth dragon rolled his head back and began to bellow out a guttural laugh!
"Aha! It is good to see you again Terrador. I am glad the war didn't claim you as well…dreadful news regarding Ignitus." Rhadal spoke in a more upbeat tone, to which Terrador finally eased up in his hard expression, offering a nod.
"Dreadful indeed…I believe a former commander of your ability would make a well-situated General of the Warfang forces…and to help get the Dragon Vanguard restoration effort underway. We'll vote on it in the morning." Terrador offered a nod, to which Rhadal would move to the side.
"Now…on the matter of a Guard Captain of Warfang, trusted with the law enforcement and protection of the city and those within it to work with the General…" Cyril rubbed his chin as he spoke, before his eyes seemed to narrow.
"Spyro, young dragon, Ulris has been with the Warfang Guard for many years now and has served valiantly above his calling as a guard…do you think he'd make a suitable Guard Captain?" Cyril asked the purple dragon, now frozen and rigid.
"I…you…want my opinion?" Spyro asked, earning a nod from Cyril, Volteer and Terrador adding their own approving nods. "But…wouldn't you three be better suited to make such a recommendation?"
Ler spoke first.
"The purple dragon was once held in the highest regard as being one even the guardians and council could confide in for important decisions…Malefor may have strayed from the path of good, but this is where the cycle must begin anew young dragon…do not doubt the trust the guardians have in your council." Ler said reassuringly, Cynder nodding in agreement.
"She's right, Spyro, they trust you and your input…for good reason." Cynder leaned in to lick his cheek quickly, reassuring him as he'd clear his throat, finding the courage to speak now before the guardians and all his peers gathered around.
"W-well…from what I know, Ulris never allowed grublins to breach the city whenever he and the guard could prevent it. He seems a good dragon from what I gathered when we journeyed together on the mission, despite my limited time speaking with him…but if you were to ask me if he'd make a good Guard Captain…my answer would be yes. Many in the guard already look to him for command, this would just make it official." Spyro said firmly, earning approving nods from the older dragons present…Granite too but he wasn't looking in his direction.
"Well said Spyro…we'll also vote on Ulris' induction to the council as Captain of the Warfang Guard in the morning…we will also be deliberating on Nix's candidacy as regent of Warfang. All guardians will attend as well as chosen dragons from the community and members of the guard to raise approval or concern on the matter, and if an agreement is met, vote upon it as a community. We shall meet at seven in the morning on Santer, this month of Aulurn. It is my great honor to declare this first official meeting adjourned and dismissed. Everyone please depart the chambers…except you Magnacia, I must speak with you a moment alone." Terrador would speak aloud now, his voice commanding and respectfully requesting the room be vacated.
All gathered would get up and leave as requested, slowly filing out of the council chambers now in lines of two. The younger dragons were the first ones out, Ler with Rhadal assisting the old dragoness out side by side, and soon the Guardians with their mates were the last out with the great doors closing behind…leaving Magnacia and Terrador alone in silence.
He'd slowly approach her now…perhaps some would view such a meeting as a surprise, but he knew she was of the same mindset that the world waited for no one, and these important matters had to be sorted out now…not later.
She reminded him of Ignitus in so many ways.
"I must discuss this with Cyril and Volteer further before tomorrow…but meet me here tomorrow after the meeting, we must speak on another vital matter regarding the guardians...and our lack of a Fire Guardian." Terrador spoke calmly, garnering her for some reaction…but she'd give none, nothing he could distinguish.
Silently, she dreaded speaking of the vacant position left by her husband's death…but she also knew the guardians had to be complete again. Their traditions demanded the guardian roles be filled…or for the order to be disbanded completely.
"Very well…I assume you want my help in finding a candidate to fill into the position, at least until an apprentice completes their training to take on the role, yes?" Magnacia asked…to her surprise, he shook his head.
"I already have an individual in mind, but I must first see what the other guardians think. Oh…as well, Volteer told me he'd like to witness where Flame and Ember are along with their training before he begins with them…bring them to the academy district at the same time? Ignius as well, I'd like to assess him as well. The rest of your young dragons will be assessed for training in due time." He raised a brow, but Magnacia simply nodded.
"Very well…I'm curious to know who you'd suggest to take the position. I'll meet you tomorrow before lunch with Flame, Ember, and Ignius?" She asked, Terrador silently nodding. "Very well, I'll see you in the morning then, Terrador."
Magnacia without another word turned to leave the chambers, the heavy doors opening and closing behind her now, leaving Terrador alone with his thoughts.
'I hope you're watching over me Ignitus…how am I going to tell Spyro?' He thought to himself, frowning as little more than the silence was his answer.
The dragons exiting the council chambers began to disperse already, all except some from Spyro and Cynder's circle along with Flame and Ember.
"Ready to look around the city you two?" Spyro asked with a grin, earning a nod from the two as Cynder joined them at his side. But before they could think of leaving, Spyro felt another paw on his shoulder, glancing over to see Galacion tugging him aside.
"Cynder dear may I barrow Spyro?" She asked.
"Well, we were just about to leave with Flame and Ember for some city exploring…" Cynder frowned a little, but Galacion simply waved her off.
"Oh, not to worry dear, I just need to speak with him for a moment! You'll be on your merry way in short time." Galacion smiled innocently, and Cynder would relent, Spyro still looking very confused.
"Alright…see you in a second." Cynder smiled, turning back to Flame and Ember as Galacion pulled Spyro aside and out of listening range.
"I- Galacion what is it?" He asked, as though he was in trouble, or worried she was in trouble.
"You need to take Cynder on a date night!" Galacion smiled, poking a claw to his golden crested chest, the purple dragon blushing a dark violet color as she made the suggestion.
"A date night?" He asked slowly, turning to glance at Cynder before looking back at Galacion. "What brought this on?"
"Come now Spyro! We just got back from an important mission and it would be such a lovely thing to do for her. Storm intends to take Eletara on a date night now that we're back, it'll be fun for you both!" Galacion grinned. Spyro had to wonder how invested the ice dragoness was in their love lives.
"I've…never been on a date, I wouldn't even know where to begin with taking her out." Spyro frowned some, the idea was actually more appealing to him than he had originally thought it, but he was still a hatchling when it came to relationships…he and Cynder both were vastly new to this.
"Fret not, I've made a list of potential activities you can do together! If you get started I'm sure you can pick those which sound most appealing for tomorrow!" Galacion would reach into her satchel she wore on her side, retrieving a scroll of paper showing some script through the paper's white color.
"When did you make this?" Spyro asked, peeking at the list a moment before he slid the scroll into his own satchel- mostly meant for the gold coins the guardians had set aside for both he and Cynder.
"Don't worry about that! Just go through the list when you can and find some fun things to do…enjoy yourselves! Granted the list is a little strained due to the city still needing some repairs, but most options on that list are viable! Just keep the list for your own purposes and do something nice for her. For you as well! I promise…do this and you'll both have fun before the night is done." Galacion smiled at the purple dragon.
"Well…" Spyro muttered, glancing back at Cynder as she spoke with Flame and Ember, simply admiring her natural beauty, the sun gleaming off her black and red scales, before turning back to Galacion. "…I do want to make her happy."
"I know you do…good luck and have fun." Galacion turned Spyro around now, urging him to return to Cynder, Flame and Ember. The four began walking towards the stairway overlooking the rest of the city below the tower, Cynder giving Spyro a curious glance.
"What did Galacion need?" She asked, Spyro unsure of how he should respond now.
"…She just gave me some friendly advice is all. She also wondered if Ignius is a robe or ceremonial armor type of drake." Spyro said with a smile, earning a chuckle from her.
"He strikes me as the robe type." Cynder responded to the query.
"Nah, he'd one-hundred percent wear heavy ceremonial armor just for a formal event…in fact I think most of us drakes would. I think the dragoness' would look good in formal armor too!" Flame grinned, Ember smiling as well.
"I'm not so sure, I'm sure armor would just make me look rounder." Ember said sheepishly, Flame shaking his head.
"Nah, you'd totally nail the look." He countered, the pink dragoness averting her gaze as her cheeks darkened to a rosy hue.
"Enough of that, let's see what the city has for us today." Spyro interjected, much to Ember's silent praise, the four dragons not wasting another moment before taking to the air and darting towards the market district of the city.
Much weighed on Spyro's mind…the morning votes, the new dragons in the city…but now he had something less dramatic to think about too.
He had a date night to plan!