wings of fire: The devil's child

by KrystalTheDragoness

Queen Glacier and the other queens go on a quest to find out why land has appeared but even more unbelievable, why it started to change shape. what they find is profound which rewrites history. (KRYSTAL, GROMEONTUNTH AND BEIPHUTH ARE MY OC'S, DONT USE THESE THREE CHARACTERS WITHOUT MT PERMISSION)

4. Chapter Four: A King's Story

"I thought... that YOU...!". As she pointed a talon at her husband. "Said no females were to touch... THAT!". Beiphuth roared out in utter disbelief and anger, whilst pointing a talon at the crystal that Gromeontunth now had within his grasp. "Why on three moons would YOU... of ALL dragons, DO THAT!". she screeched at the top of her voice whilst staring at him, demanding an explanation. Her wings stretched out to their full size, making herself appear larger then she actually was. Gromeontunth directed his gaze from his wife, back to their guests, before glancing back at Beiphuth.

Suddenly she remembered that they had guests, immediately lowering her head in shame, furling her wings back against her sides in a more relaxed manner, while standing there, trying to regain her composure, whilst embarrassment and guilt ripped through her mind as the feeling of Gromeontunth's stare fell upon her. Then he spoke to her telepathically, though only she could hear his voice. (Perhaps dear, it is best for all of us if you just get on with breakfast first). By now he had lowered his head, nuzzling into the crook of her neck, Beiphuth glanced at Gromeontunth with a single eye while her tail lashed about slightly behind her, a clear sign she was still bubbling away with anger underneath.

With that Gromeontunth turned back towards the large table, glancing at each of the Queens whom by now were silent, and from the looks of it, had found a sudden interest in the table, not daring to look at him. Although he did notice that Glacier was the only one of the party that refused to divert her stare from him, her facial expressions completely unreadable to him, yet her mind was as open as a front door, as if inviting him in, showing him that she had nothing to hide, yet, she knew all too well that this... Bizarre family, was obviously withholding far more information from them. That it could potentially rewrite all the history scrolls, especially from the visions she received during the night! But clearly there was a lot more to the story, though more importantly the unbelievable reaction they witnessed from Beiphuth!

Gromeontunth spoke to Beiphuth telepathically, his eyes still fixed on Glacier's.

(My darling Emerald, I do believe that I chose the right one, but don't you see that I had to give her the crystal, to prove that what she had endured wasn't just a dream). Beiphuth's head snapped around to glance at Glacier, her eyes widened from what Gromeontunth had just told her, then she quickly glanced back to the breakfast she had started to dish up, puffing out a snort which cause a stream of smoke to rise from her nostrils.

All the while her son, Krystal, carried a few plates out to the table, giving each of the queens in turn their food, Glory had a plate of salad and fruit, while Thorn and Blaze both had a plate of camel meat, along with a few lizards and some cactus juice. Ruby had a plate of chicken, cow stakes, Goat leg and Bobcat. Coral's plate had trout, Salmon, Shark and Shrimp, he continued around the table, giving Glacier her plate of seal meat, narwhal whale meat and polar bear steak.

Beiphuth joined Gromeontunth and the Queens at the table, Krystal brought his parents their breakfast before he sat down beside his mother, Beiphuth spoke softly, bowing her head slightly towards the Queens. "Please, let me know if you would like anything else and I hope you all enjoy your breakfasts".

At first no one dared speak let a lone look at one another. The only sound that could be heard throughout the large dining room was the clinking of cutlery they were using to eat.

Beiphuth ate silently beside Gromeontunth, with her head lowered, looking down at her plate whilst Krystal, whom was sat on the other side of her, scanned the room with his eyes as he ate, trying not to look at anyone, especially his father.

Glacier knew she had to say something, there was just too many questions flying around in her head. She placed her cutlery down upon her plate, putting her forepaws together in front of her, she lifted her head regally, locking her gaze upon Gromeontunth, as she took a deep breath and said. "Forgive me Gromeontunth, I can go no longer without saying... something! You were the one who went out of his way last night to not only confuse me immensely, because I didn't really understand why you were showing me those images, but to prove, this morning, in front of everyone, that the dream was real by way of an amazingly beautiful crystal, that I shouldn't have been handling at all it would seem; because that has clearly infuriated our hostess...your wife, but from the looks of it, you knew that it would! But more to the point, why would you do that because now it only raises even more questions than I had before! I really do hope you can see that!"

Battlewinner whipped her head round to stare at Glacier, immediately asking loudly. "What on three moons are you talking about?". Only to get a "shush" from Glacier, something that made the Nightwing Queen frown at, although Battlewinner knew Glacier all to well, and realized now, was not the time to question.

Ruby opened her mouth to speak as her head frantically moved from side to side, which caused her ear rings to clink against her scaled face, she raised a forepaw, which she had an extremely expensive and elaborate wedding ring on her index talon, though from a single glare from Glacier, decided against it. The other Queens also kept quiet as a tension grew within the room. Krystal froze, his fork that had a piece of meat on it was within his mouth, remained still while his eyes flicked around at each of the dragons in turn that were sat around the table.

Glacier very quietly yet patiently waited for a response, narrowing her eyes slightly while Gromeontunth, in a slow manner, placed his fork down upon his plate, his purple eyes fixed upon Glacier's as he replied with an equally profound and honest statement. "As I said to my wife a moment ago, after her sudden... uncharacteristically explosive outburst, which under normal circumstances would have been dealt with immediately, and, I might add, with severe consequences, even more so in the presence of such royalty. But, these are not normal circumstances, nor was her outburst unreasonably justified, and if you would be kind enough as to allow me to explain, it would be very greatly appreciated!"

Glacier just stared at Gromeontunth for a moment, completely motionless, she then closed her eyes and bowed graciously towards him in agreement to allow him to continue. Beiphuth was sat next to Gromeontunth, completely motionless and without words, just staring at her plate, all the other queens sat motionless also, just staring at Gromeontunth, while Krystal looked on with an ever growing nervousness, playing around with his forepaw talons.

Gromeontunth glanced down at his wife by his side as he said. "My wife immediately reacted to the fact that a female dragon was holding the sacred crystal that is only passed down into the paws of the next rightful king of the Drainwings, and ONLY him! It is forbidden for Any female, which includes the Queen, to lay a single talon upon it, which is written in the law scrolls and is punishable by death!"

Glacier glanced down at her plate as shock and betrayal flooded her entire body and mind. Taking a few seconds to compose herself before looking back up at Beiphuth, her arctic blue eyes met her red and green eyes.

All the other Queens turned to stare at Glacier, unable to grasp the seriousness of the situation; as an unrest stared to grow within the room once again.

Battlewinner rose up quickly from her seat as anger and distress consumed her, the chair suddenly scrapping loudly backwards upon the smooth marbled floor, which made everyone jump from the sudden noise, she stood in front of it, immediately speaking out her opinion and concern for her Fellow Queen and friend.

"I don't know what on three moons is going on here, but you have just accused my friend of one of the worst and quite frankly impossible crimes against the Icewings, which if you knew Queen Glacier like I know her, then you would very quickly realise that she is the most selfless, noble and beloved Queen, not from just her subjects, but from all the Queens that live now, and the ones that have lived throughout history! I can't explain how she acquired the crystal or how she even knew of it's existence! But more to the point, Why on three moons would you just leave such a beloved and ancient relic just... lying around?" Battlewinner slammed her forepaws down upon the table as her talons dug into the wooden surface, smoke billowing from her nostrils while she stared directly at Gromeontunth, as if demanding an immediate response!

Glacier remained motionless yet was stunned by Battlewinner's immediate defensive speech. Glacier leaned slightly towards where Battlewinner was standing, with a rather rough tug, she had managed to pull Battlewinner back down onto her chair, whispering to her. "It's very kind of you to come to my defence, though it is best you just remain quiet for now darling as things are not as they seem, nor is he accusing me of the crime you had just stated!"

Battlewinner stared into Glacier's eyes, though after a few seconds let out a puff of smoke and nodded towards her, even though she was more confused then ever. Glacier took a deep breath before letting out a heavy sigh, frostbreath billowed slightly from her maw, only for her to then sit upon her chair properly once more, she then turned her head to look at Gromeontunth once again.

Her heavy wings tucked against her sides as she said, with her normal regal tone. "Forgive me sir for my fellow Queen's sudden and... as I also see it, fully justified defensive act, especially with the statement that you've just made. Though if I may, I wish to make a statement of my own! Why would you put me, of All dragons, in such a complicated and impossible position, by breaking your kingdom's ancient and sacred laws, and by doing so, you have now condemned MY position and title as Queen of the Icewings, surely you must understand that?"

Beiphuth stared up at her husband, her eyes wide as he continued to look at Glacier, the dining room buzzed with the sound of whispers and dragons shifting about in their chairs, causing the chairs to make little scrapping, creaking and squeaking sounds upon the marble floor. All the while Glacier's gaze remained transfixed on Gromeontunth and Beiphuth as she patiently waited for a response.

Gromeontunth breathed in, then let out a deliberate but gentle throaty little cough, and then waited for the room to settle down. He couldn't help but notice that Battlewinner sat motionless, he could see that she was extremely upset, but, he was in agreement with Glacier, that the statement that Battlewinner had just made did not seem unjustified, especially as the recent events in question, were only shared between himself and Glacier. He knew he had to address that immediately because he could see, but clearly did not appreciate at the time, how special a relationship these royal ladies had. He realised at that moment that he did not telepathically asses the other Queens at all really, only Glacier, because she was most definitely the born leader, the Queen of Queens. But had earned immense respect from everyone she knew, which now included himself!

Glancing over at Battlewinner, then back towards Glacier, Gromeontunth knew he had to address Battlewinner's immediate elevated concerns for her royal friend, he couldn't help but admire her no-nonsense strength of character. Gently placing his forepaws upon the table, he curled his tail slightly behind him along the floor while; adjusting himself in his seat in a slow manner, his wings ruffled a bit against his sides while he shifted his weight around slightly as to get into a more comfortable position before he spoke.

Beiphuth looked upon each of the Queens in turn, before glancing back up at her husband, raising a forepaw, only to settle it down upon Gromeontunth's large forepaw, in return, Gromeontunth looked down at his wife, his purple eyes locked upon hers, he turned his paw so he could grip her smaller paw, sharing a simple yet powerful affection for each other, after a few seconds, Gromeontunth gave Beiphuth's paw a soft squeeze with both his paws, before letting it go again.

Gromeontunth turned his gaze back to Battlewinner, his purple eyes locked upon hers as he breathed in, only to let out a slow sigh as he collected his thoughts on what to say to the Nightwing Royal. "Battlewinner-" Her eyes widened as her ears perked up, listening to Gromeontunth speak to her "-I admire your strength and loyalty towards your fellow Queens, especially Glacier. It is rare to see such a connection between different Kingdoms, something I myself have not seen in thousands of years, though, I wish to make it abundantly clear, that Glacier... has not done anything to break any Drainwing laws. If there was another way to convince her... that what I showed her last night was real... then believe me when I say... I wouldn't have used the relic of the Kings".

Battlewinner let out a snort, a soft growl escaping her throat as she replied in a exasperated and questionable manner. "Well, that sure does make a lot of sense, what on three moons do you mean?". Letting out a groan of annoyance. Gromeontunth shook his head.

Beiphuth opened her mouth to speak, though decided it was safer to use their telepathic gateway to talk to her husband. (Perhaps using a more... Visual way of explanation would be of a better way my love?) Gromeontunth looked down at Beiphuth once again, thinking for a few seconds before he gave a soft nod.

Turning back to look at the Queens once again, Gromeontunth then said. "May I share with you all what was shared with Glacier last night, as I believe it would bring more insight into this situation than just words, but it would mean that you would have to close your eyes for you to see!"

Around the table was confusion, Battlewinner spoke out in a irritated manner. "What on three moons are you yammering about now!". "Battlewinner! that is enough!". Glacier barked at Battlewinner, scolding the Nightwing Queen before saying. "Just do what Gromeontunth asks of you, for most of your questions would then be answered". Battlewinner stared at Glacier once again, seeing nothing but the truth within her eyes, letting out a sigh, she gave a nod towards the Icewing, turning her gaze back towards Gromeontunth.

Gromeontunth waited for all the Queens to be sat, with their eyes closed, except Beiphuth as she had to keep an eye on Krystal's health, for he had a sickness that none of the Queens knew about... yet!

Gromeontunth was the last to close his eyes. He said "Please keep your eyes closed, You are going to hear a sound, but it is important that all you ladies keep your eyes closed throughout!

Suddenly he started making a deep guttural humming sound that was seemed to be coming from his throat as well. As Battlewinner listened to the hum that came from Gromeontunth, she felt a relaxation wash over her, sending her into a sort of peaceful state, the humming became more and more distant as the first thing she noticed was the rather warm breeze that blew against her scaled body.

She opened her eyes, only to be met with an orange haze that blocked out the sunlight, shock emanated from within her, just then she noticed that the other Queens were also there, glancing around at their surroundings, only to then find themselves within what seemed to be a giant ruined city of sorts, behind them was a huge pile of stone and dust, that must have once been a large building of some sorts!

On the horizon to the northeast was two dormant volcanoes, with what seemed to be a sizable column of ash that rose from a third one, and quite clearly the biggest one, that also appeared to be the furthest one away. It was clearly in the midst of an eruption, lava flowed down from the top of it, though it looked as if part of it was missing, that could have potentially been it's peak.

Glacier appeared beside her fellow Queens, startling most of them, except Battlewinner, who looked on with a rather pleasing look upon her snout, while the warm breeze flowed past them all.

Coral looked around at her surroundings, letting out a hiss of displeasure, she then looked over at Glacier. "Where has he taken us all? Why here? There is no water around... anywhere!" she said while turning on the spot, her necklaces jingled against one another, doing another 360 degree turn only to then cry out. "I can't survive here! There is no way that... THIS.. is possible, what on Pyrrhia is going on!"

Glacier made her way past them, her talons clicked against the warm almost hot cobblestone path that they stood upon. "This is where Gromeontunth had brought me to last night, showing me this city which was his home, His kingdom".

Thorn made her way forwards, sitting down upon her haunches after finally reaching Glacier, saying to the Icewing as a snort left her nostrils. "This... was his kingdom, it's so!...so!-"

"Dead!" As Glacier finished Thorns sentence.

Ruby was the next to comment, padding forwards towards Glacier and Thorn. "So this is what Gromeontunth showed you? Why on Pyrrhia would he show you such a desolated wasteland?" The Skywing Queen glanced from side to side, eventually glancing up at the giant wall that encased the city that was in front of them.

Orange lightning flashed above them when suddenly there was an almighty explosion, causing the ground to shake violently and split apart. On the horizon where the three sister volcanoes sat, the one belching ash had now just completely, and with such unbelievable force, blown itself apart. It lit up the sky and the surrounding area as ash and parts of the volcano, and a very large and powerful shockwave, emanated from it in all directions!

All the Queens looked on in horror as the ground shook violently. The roaring sound from the volcano was deafening. They were struggling to stand up right, when suddenly, large building sized pieces of hot rock rocketed over them, the sky began to fill with countless projectiles, as a sort of hot rain started to fall from the ever darkening sky; as lightning flashed within the ever expanding black ash cloud!

The shockwave continued on it's march towards them, they could feel a very strong wind that had suddenly appeared out of nowhere, even though the shock wave hadn't quite reached them yet, when suddenly it was right there; blasting parts of the wall away with frightening ease, as it, and the huge chunks of rock, dust and other debris traversed with unbelievable speed across the city, the sound was deafening, dust and sand was sandblasting it's way in all directions, obscuring their vision.

All the Queens including Glacier threw themselves upon the ground, they had instinctively covered their heads with their forepaws whilst curling themselves up into a ball and feeling all sorts of things slamming into their bodies!

Everyone, that is apart from Glacier, was screaming, she couldn't hear them screaming but could see that they were, because of their facial expressions, she also knew what they were thinking, because at that very moment they believed that they were being forced to accept that they were going to die and die horribly, and in that very moment, were being forced to wait for their inevitable demise!

Though as they waited, shaking and screaming uncontrollably, nothing happened! Suddenly the roaring sound had stopped. And the only thing they heard now, was the sound of themselves screaming, and a feeling of something brushing upon their bodies, accompanied with a pleasant breeze, which had now replaced the roar that they had heard only moments ago, was gently caressing them, which made them all, one after another, very cautiously and very slowly, to eventually lift their heads.

The very first thing that they noticed was the grass, then they realised that it was very tall grass, and that they were in fact surrounded by it, and also laying in it! They remained laying there for a moment, all of them were in obvious shock and their faces full of terror, still sobbing and shaking violently. That is except Glacier, of whom was, by now, up onto her paws and was starting to check on everyone, and in a calm and soothing reassuring voice said. "Now, now ladies!" As she assessed each one in turn, "its all over! Nothing is going to happen to you, it was only a mere snippet of what I went through last night... believe me!"

The sunlight, that they were now bathed in, was in stark contrast to the extremely volatile world that they found themselves in only moments before. Battlewinner was the second one, after Glacier, to get onto her paws, she looked all around, unknowingly, taking in the same landscape but clearly not the extreme adventure Glacier had found herself in, but only some of what Glacier had witnessed last night, though, that part hadn't quite sunk in yet!

She was completely in awe of the land that now lay before her, for once she was utterly and completely lost for words especially as she gazed at this now magically enhanced wall; that had seemingly replaced the dilapidated solid wall. It was the most amazing thing that she had ever seen! The multicoloured levels were absolutely stunning, even for her!

realisation suddenly hit her like a ton of bricks, Battlewinner glanced down at the grass covered ground, digging her talons into it, only to then turn around and look straight at Glacier. She asked quizzically. "What did you mean by... just a snippet?"

Raising a forepaw, Glacier answered back. "All will become clear, I'm sure once Gromeontunth comes to meet us!"

"Gromeontunth? you mean the big scary dragon?" Blaze questioned as she struggled to get onto her four paws, raising a forepaw only to then cry out. "Eww, I'm covered in mud now!" the yellow dragoness shook her paw, flicking mud onto the grass.

Ruby was on her paws as well, she glanced around at her surroundings, her red wings tucked against her sides while her countless jewellery, from necklaces to earrings to rings of all sorts, all clinked and rubbed against her body as she moved about, grass was disturbed and in places, trampled down while she turned to notice the absolutely gigantic wall, she found her breath taken from her, her eyes wide while she took in the beautifully splendid architectural movement and colour of each section, she had to tilt her head almost vertically just to see the top of it, it was massive!

Glacier placed a forepaw upon Ruby's shoulder, a slight smirk fell upon the Icewing's maw; as she observed her fellow queens gaping mouth and shocked expression as she whispered. "by the moons, who designed such a structure... wow!" Which made Glacier chuckle as she observed Ruby tilting her head in awe!

A sudden gasp came from Coral as she made a dash passing the other Queens, running towards a large river before diving in, a loud splash was heard as water was thrown upwards into the air.

Thorn found herself moving out the way whilst dragonets played tag and ran past her, but one caused her to freeze as she gasped in shock when they suddenly phased straight through her, as if she wasn't there at all! She fell onto her haunches, letting out a yelp from the sudden shocking yet unbelievable event that had just occurred, she whipped her head around to look at Glacier, mouth agape in shock. "Yes yes, that happened to me as well darling, don't get too spooked" Glacier waved a paw at Thorn dismissively.

But Thorn remained shocked as she then replied. "What exactly is going on here Glacier!"

Ruby glanced around, and as she did so, suddenly became interested in what appeared, to be a ramp of sorts in the distance, that seemed to lead up to a large platform, that was built around one of the trees on the outskirts of the forest, that she had only just noticed!

Huffing out softly, with growing curiosity, the red dragoness stood silently staring! She strained to see what was happening, though it was simply too far away to make sense of anything, suddenly she found that her curiosity got the better of her, and started to make her way towards the ramp.

But first she had to get out of the tall grass, which by now was being forced to make way as she went through it. With a quickened pace, and with every couple of steps, she would leap into the air, she knew she had to keep as streamlined as possible, making sure to keep her wings tucked against her sides as to not damage them, she was by now, almost running towards her destination! She was picking up speed as she made her way through, getting closer and closer to the platform, and suddenly, she was out, into what was a large open space, the ramp was in front of her as she trotted towards it. It wasn't a long walk, then again she did run, which took her perhaps thirty to forty five minutes.

"Ruby, wait up!" came Blaze's voice as the Sandwing princess came dashing through the tall grass, straight past the rest of the Queens which in turn caused Coral, Battlewinner, Glory, Thorn and Glacier to glance over at where Blaze had ran off to.

Glacier found herself letting out a disapproved huff before she shouting out to Ruby and Blaze. "Wait up you two, don't go running off, we need.. to stick together!" the Icewing Queen said, only to then shake her head as if she was wasting her time, she and the rest of the Royal party then followed suit, albeit not at a running pace!.

Coral climbed out of the river, only to realize that the rest of the party had left, and was travelling towards the large forest, so immediately decided to catch up to the group, with water dripping from her body, she finally caught up with her fellow Queens. In a quickened pace, they continued on their way towards the forest where Ruby and Blaze had scampered off too.

As they came out of the tall grass and into the clearing, each of the Queens studied their surroundings, watching dragonets play, flying around and climbing the giant trees that had extremely large and thick leaves.

Adult dragons made their way around the countless walkways that branched from tree to tree, carrying all sorts of items, from food to building materials that kept the large forested community thriving!

"This is absolutely amazing, look how effortless this seems, a well thought out system that has been adapted over time obviously! Though I can't help but wonder how old this civilisation really was?" Glacier said softly to herself. Though Battlewinner heard what she had said.

"I completely agree with you Glacier, and must say that you've also made a very good point!" she replied, as she found her eyes meet Glacier's!

Upon reaching the ramped walkway, after what turned out to be quite a walk! Glacier glanced back at the other Queens, deciding to wait for them. Only to then look up at the towering trees as her eyes started searching for a certain red Queen, though found it hard due to the amount of dragons, and density of the foliage. "where did she go?" She mumbled to herself, just as the other Queens finally caught up and stopped beside her, each one of them looking up at the awe inspiring sight before them.

the first thing they all noticed was the countless large rope bridges, all interconnected, and attached to wooden platforms that were built around the branches of each tree, each branch was massive and covered in moss that hung down from each branch, Battlewinner couldn't believe what she was seeing, she said to Glacier. "This- this is unlike anything I have ever seen before, just look at the size of that branch above us, it dwarfs us!".

Glacier glanced up at the branch they were under, noticing the giant leaves that hung from an extremely large canopy, and that, was from just one branch! Each of the leaves were deeply veined which gave the illusion that they were deeply padded, because as she reached up to touch one, she found that it was not padded at all, though she couldn't help but look at the ruffled edges which she found to be extremely beautiful, but she also noticed that each leaf had a slight sparkle to them, which she found was hypnotically magical!

Between the large leaves were countless flowers, all different colours and types, though they all were enormous, with some that were larger then the leaves themselves. The sound of birds filled her ears, even seeing a few, that were beautifully colourful, that were sat upon a large leaf, chirping and singing their songs.

She looked around her, taking everything in as she stared upon the beautiful scenery. Suddenly, it hit her, the realization that all this... that was around her, was of what had been, and not, what is, right now! Feeling her legs wobble underneath her, she collapsed onto the ground, her eyes wide as tears began to well up in her eyes while her head drooped, staring at the cut grass below her, as tears began to drip onto the ground.

She felt someone sit down next to her, a wing then gently rested upon her back in a comforting way, as she heard Battlewinner say. "Glacier, this isn't like you at all, what on three moons is wrong?" Glacier didn't respond straight away, nor did she raise her head. She just sat there on her haunches, sobbing quietly to herself.

Battlewinner was completely stunned. This was not the Glacier she knew, in fact it was almost the complete opposite. Battlewinner asked once again. "Glacier, please tell me what is wrong?" Finally Glacier responded, pulling herself together, then raising her head only to turn to look at her Nightwing friend.

"A...all these little ones... playing around, enjoying themselves, laughing and squealing with delight, are l...long since gone" she choked up, struggling to speak as tears ran down her face as she attempted to carry on. "S...something catastrophic h...happened here, t...to completely annihilate e...e...everything around a...and everyone o...one". she felt her walls crumbling, struggling to hold herself together!

"What on three moons is the point of Gromeontunth showing us all of this! He isn't even here!" As Battlewinner loudly expressed herself, letting out a little snort, trying to not get annoyed, while still trying to comfort her Icewing friend. (But I am with you all-). Came Gromeontunth's immensely deep voice, echoing within all of their minds.

By now Ruby and Blaze were coming back down the ramp to join the rest of the Queens, of whom also heard his voice within their minds. (Do not be afraid, and please... do be prepared for what I am about to show you, for it is quite disturbing).

The surrounding environment started to transform, day grew to night, the three moons high in the sky as Gromeontunth suddenly appeared by their side. The scene in front of them was horrifically gruesome, as the Queens all watched, that is, of course, except Blaze, who had no battle experience, her head buried into Glacier's chest, covering her ears as the many screams of dragons filled the midnight air, large fires engulfed the massive trees.

An explosion suddenly was heard which made the ground shake slightly, making all the Queens to look up at the Ice spire, large flames had now engulfed one of the top floors, the dragons who were on that floor could be seen leaping from it before opening their wings to escape the inferno, rather large pieces of Ice and stone fell from the spire and onto the area below it.

Suddenly it started to collapse, the top was the first to go, each floor crushed down upon the floor below it, making the top half of the now ablaze spire to seemingly fold in onto itself, then the rest of it began to tilt towards the centre of the city, the base of it crumbled and shattered under the strain and the heat caused by the many flames that now engulfed most of the spire, causing it to fail and fall onto still occupied buildings as it broke into large pieces and erupted into very large flames as if large explosions ripped throughout the surrounding area, large chunks of the spire crushed some fleeing dragons as the flames engulfed many buildings.

Some of the attacking dragons dropped dragonflame cactus bombs, which exploded when they came in contact with anything aflame, causing countless small thorny spheres to be shot out from the explosions, impaling the countless dragons that were in the vicinity, and sometimes, even themselves.

While the other attacking dragons that were not wielding cactus bombs, landed upon the ground, attacking any Drainwings, even the younglings with spears and knifes, the Queens couldn't see who the attackers were, that was until one of the attackers landed close to a raging fire, stabbing their spear into a young Drainwing mother before cutting the throat of the two dragonets, their bodies slumping to the ground, empty of life, Glacier looked from the dead dragonets to the dragon who had just murdered them, the light from the fire illuminated their features which allowed Glacier to get a better look at them.

The first thing she noticed was their white scales that covered their body, she found herself frozen to the spot, she was so shocked! She forgot how to breath for a few seconds, her eyes widened as she found herself saying. "No... it cannot be!" Dread and disbelief flooded her mind as she couldn't look anymore, finding her forepaws coming up to cover her eyes; while tears streamed down her face, she knew she could never unsee those little dragonets as they seemed to be tossed aside as if they were worth nothing! "H... how could an Icewing do such a thing, especially to defenceless dragonets, without a care of what they had just done!"

"There is no way on Pyrriha that this was an Icewing!" She whimpered softly

After a few seconds of hearing nothing but the terrible screams of dragonets and dragons being slaughtered, along with the large fires that raged and crackled loudly, she found she had to uncover her face to look upon the figure that... that, that so called 'Thing', that resembled a dragon, and a murderous one at that! To confirm it's identity once and for all, as it seemed to resemble an Icewing, which was impossible!

She found a new sense of urgency as she continued to search and look for the figure from before! But she couldn't see it anymore! Desperation and determination became overwhelming as she knew she had to move if she had any hope in finding it, for wherever she looked, she couldn't see this murderous figure anywhere! Taking a few steps forwards, Glacier frantically moved her head from side to side, her eyes desperately searching throughout the countless dragons that ran and flew past and all around her, countless Drainwings trying to flee from the utter slaughter that had fallen upon them!

Then suddenly, after a few minutes of looking, there they were! they were holding a dragonet within their paw, it was screaming and crying, trying helplessly to free itself, only for them to then snap the little one's neck, their serrated claws digging into its soft flesh as it laid lifeless in their paw, they then slashed their spear tip over the throat of a older male Drainwing, which must of been the dragonets father as he tried in desperation to avenge his little ones demise!

Glacier was stunned, gobsmacked in fact, because what she had just witnessed was an Icewing committing atrocious, murderous crimes against all dragonkind, but to be so extremely cold and heartless, seemingly without emotion, especially killing dragonets and hatchlings was beyond her! The next thing she noticed was the countless spikes that ran down their back, a crown sat upon their head, the next thing she saw was that they opened their wings, ready to launch themselves back into the sky, their spear covered in the blood of a Drainwing dragonet, as drips landed upon the burnt grass underneath them as they took flight, looking to murder more Drainwings!

Glacier raised her head slightly before glancing down at her own body, in utter disbelief, she examined the colour of her scales, even though, after what she had just seen, she knew the truth had been displayed right out in front of her, but she also knew that her fellow Queens had also witnessed it. Glacier wasn't just shocked, but she felt deeply ashamed, she glanced over at her Royal friends with an open mouth only to realize that they were just as equally horrified.

Glacier was deeply ashamed to be associated with that dragon, by calling it an Icewing for moons sake, but even more shockingly, that it was a Queen!

She felt sick to her stomach! She couldn't believe what she had just witnessed, for she knew in her very heart and soul, that she could not have been capable of such a disgusting act, an unbelievable evil and violence she knew she could not stop, and yet something didn't feel right!

There was something very wrong here! Glacier knew that no Queen had ever acted like this before, there is no record of any Queen in history being associated with such a battle, let alone a slaughter of this magnitude, in any of the history scrolls!

T hough now she started to question what she had just seen, because it was impossible to accept, which made it equally something she refused to believe in, because how could it have been true!

She felt the need to question Gromeontunth about this, because why would he show her something which clearly wasn't true, all kinds of emotions started to pile into her mind, her eyes darting side to side, deep in thought!

The fires grew to an unbelievable size, lighting up the surrounding area and highlighting the dragons, she could see there were dragons from every kingdom, from Seawings to Nightwings to Skywings, all of whom were attacking and wielding all kinds of weapons, murdering every Drainwing in sight, even the unborn!

Glacier was beside herself, she couldn't stand the horrific scenes anymore. "Gromeontunth, stop it!... Stop it!... STOP IT! STOP THIS AT ONCE!". Glacier screamed.

Even Battlewinner had by now hid her face and covered her ears, shaking slightly as the screaming and blood curdling cries continued to fill the night sky. "Enough, Please!" She shouted.

Gromeontunth glanced down at the dragonesses that were clearly in a lot of distress, with a single wave of a clawed hand, the Queens all found themselves back in the castle, sat around the very same table, in exactly the same places, as if they had never left from their seats! Except now they were utterly traumatized after what they had just witnessed. They all shook as tears ran down their faces, Blaze had her forepaws covering her face, tears ran down her beautiful face as she let out a wail.

Battlewinner sat in silence, warm tears ran down her scarred covered face, letting out a shaky breath only to then look over at Glacier, seeing the Icewing staring off into the distance and seemingly frozen to the spot.

With the sudden thoughts that came to her, she found herself questioning what she and her fellow queens were lead to believe had happened. [There is no way on Pyrriha that... That just happened! There is not a Dragon on this world that will or has been so murderous to that degree! It would have been written in the history scrolls, and it wasn't! Because it never happened! But then again, wasn't Gromeontunth meant to be the all powerful Dragon of Pyrriha! The king of all kings! So therefore why didn't he just wipe them all out! It doesn't make sense! This whole thing is just too fantastic and absurd! I refuse to believe this, and cannot, and will not accept it!] Glacier remained in silence, sitting motionless and thinking to herself, suddenly Glacier stood up, making her chair to slide loudly backwards and fall over, she rose onto her hind paws, placing her forepaws upon the table as her long tail flicked behind her.

The spikes that ran down Glacier's neck and back by now, stood on end, a clear sign she was in immense distress, as shock was replaced by a sudden wave of anger, as she found herself starting to pace backwards and forwards, her tail lashing out, smacking into the table a few times, while her talons clicked against the smooth marbled floor. "Gromeontunth! I cannot accept what you have just shown us, therefore You have some explaining to do at once!" She said. "There is no way that ANY Queen or ANY Kingdom could have done that! I... It's completely absurd! And more to the Point! None of our History scrolls mention ANYTHING ABOUT THIS!" She screeched out, her arctic blue eyes burning with icy flames of rage while gazing at Gromeontunth.

"Please, do calm yourself Glacier, for what I had shown you was nothing but the truth" Gromeontunth said with a softness to it.

Letting a snort out, Glacier shook her head while she continued to pace around, only to then suddenly come to a stop, turning to face Gromeontunth after he had just spoken. "If it's true that You are the most powerful dragon on this very world, then Why didn't YOU just kill all of the attackers... WELL!" She hissed only to continue. "With all the magic around, ANYONE would think that You would have been able to protect yourselves. Clearly you didn't even Try! So I must ask, Why? Because it didn't really happen? Or is there something else you aren't telling us!" She narrowed her eyes in suspicion and mistrust while the other Queens, still shocked from the events that had unfolded, glanced up towards Glacier, then they all looked towards Gromeontunth, with Battlewinner letting out an irritated snort!

Beiphuth was sat next to her son, she then had the immediate need to stand up for her husband and her fallen race and kingdom, with the latter being just memories now. She felt her temper climb, her tail intertwining with Gromeontunth's, she suddenly stood up onto her hind paws, pushing her chair backwards at high speed, making it screech across the marble floor. She flared out her wings, before turning quickly, marching around the table, towards where Glacier was. "You have NO idea what it's like to loose EVERYTHING! FIRST you kill everyone in MY kingdom, you Killed my Son and Daughters, you murdered my Mother and Father! then YOU and the rest of the world DARE TO ATTACK MY HUSBAND BY POSIONING MY LAST SON! WHICH IS SLOWLY CONSUMING HIM, EVEN THOUGH YOU THOUGHT HE WAS ALREADY DEAD, LET ME GUESS, YOU HAVE CAME HERE TO FINISH THE JOB!" Her tail lashed out behind her, smacking into her son accidently, causing the Prince to fall backwards and onto his back, hitting the back of his head, his horns acting as a sort of buffer while his chair remained underneath him, he let out a groan, though Beiphuth was too angry to notice what she had just done as the sound of talons clicking against the marble floor filled the room, draining out any other noise.

Battlewinner instantly stood up onto all her paws, moving in front of Glacier, acting as her ultimate protector, baring her teeth at the brown, green and white female, whom by now had seemingly launched herself at Glacier, only to smash into Battlewinner which caused both dragonesses to tumble and crash into Glacier, ultimately ending up side by side upon the cold marbled floor!

Glacier started shouting at Battlewinner. "Stop.. Battlewinner... STOP"! As she forced herself between them! "Battlewinner, remember who you are!" She said.

"Beiphuth! Get here RIGHT Now!" Gromeontunth roared, making the entire foundations shake as his powerful deep voice boomed disapprovingly at his wife. "How DARE you act in such a manner! Especially to YOUR guests! The very guests that you invited to stay! Stop and look at what you have just done to our son! Your tail has just smashed into our son, causing him to fall backwards!" Beiphuth whipped her head around, her eyes as wide as dinner plates, she scrambled away, running around the table only to then hug her son. "I'm so sorry my darling, what have I just done" She said. Krystal, with the help of his mother, got up onto his four paws, he shook his body, letting out a soft snort. Beiphuth hugged him and kissed him. "I'm so sorry my darling" She repeated!

Gromeontunth said while stroking Krystal's face. "Perhaps, it is best if I took our son to bed, he needs to rest." Glancing over at all the Queens, he raised his head before speaking. "Ladies, our house is your house!" "Glacier, you are absolutely correct in your assumption because there is so much more that has to be said, I have to see to my son first though"! "Please, allow us to give you any sort of refreshments you desire". With that he scooped his son up in his forearms, then made his way out of the room and upstairs, leaving Beiphuth to care for there guests.

Glacier had Battlewinner pinned, keeping the Nightwing from attacking anymore while she stared at Beiphuth.

Beiphuth shook her head from side to side, then slowly lowered it as she turned away and just stared at the floor, knowing that it was better to wait for her husband, but more importantly they needed each other for strength! Their guests needed and deserved to know the full story! She just stood there, then suddenly realising that her back was now towards them! "Oh good grief!" She said to herself, as her tail waved behind her. She found that she was in a more relaxed state now, her wings had by now furled back against her sides, taking a less aggressive stance, breathing in only to then let out a heavy sigh. "It would seem that you are all wanting an explanation". She said while taking a seat.

Glacier grabbed hold of Battlewinner, helping the Nightwing Queen up as she scolded her. "For moons sake, pull yourself together and stop embarrassing yourself!" Battlewinner glanced at Glacier, letting out a disapproving huff. "I was only protecting you from her" As she flicked her eyes towards where Beiphuth was. Glacier shook her head, letting go of Battlewinner only to say "Yes I know you were, I know you always will, though we must respect that we are guests, there appears to be something very wrong here, something that happened in the past which caused Beiphuth to act in such a manner, for now it is best if I do the talking and you just sit there, okay?".

She shook her head, taking her gaze off Battlewinner to look at her own chair which was now on the floor, she grabbed it with her forepaws, her talons digging into the beautifully carved wood while lifting it up onto it's legs, whilst shifting her wings slightly before sitting herself down upon it, glancing over at where Beiphuth was sat, she found herself locking her gaze momentarily with Beiphuth's own gaze.

Glacier composed herself, tucking her wings neatly against her sides, shuffling slightly upon her seat before asking in a regal manner. "If I may, I would just like to ask if you are okay? Because I wish to ask a question regarding your son. You made the comment of ..US... coming back to finish off your son, I assure you Beiphuth, we mean no harm and have no idea of what, or of whom, did this! But let me assure you, if I find out an Icewing did this, then they will be held accountable; So my question is... being a mother myself, I would very much like you as a mother, to tell me, what exactly went on and how you found yourself in this situation. If you feel more comfortable waiting for your husband, then that is fine, though if you feel you can answer this question without him, it would be greatly appreciated?".

Beiphuth took a deep breath, then let it out slowly, calming herself down only to then say "Before I speak of my son's situation. I have to apologise wholeheartedly for my behaviour earlier, it was very wrong for me to show such... anger and frustration, especially since I invited you to stay within my- Our home, and it was far from lady like but more importantly to direct it at you was more than wrong, I do hope you can forgive me, now, please allow me to get you all some refreshments". She said as she got up and made her way towards the kitchen area, her talons clicking against the marbled floor.

Glacier replied. "Thank you very much, that would be lovely". The Icewing Queen bowed slightly before turning to chat with her fellow Queens, though Beiphuth's voice was heard again. "Please, if you would like, please do go and explore any part of the Castle you wish, except My son's room, for his room is... off limits" She mumbled the last part thinking that no one else had heard her, but Glacier's extremely good hearing had heard it, her eyes narrowing slightly before she said. "Thank you, that's very kind of you".

She had decided, as did some of the older Queens, to remain, though the younger Queens like Glory and Ruby had gotten up and had already begun to explore the castle, Blaze also had gotten up, and joined Glory and Ruby as the trio made their way around.

Blaze had, rather quickly, found the room with countless paintings and all kinds of jewellery, Glory and Ruby followed her, pushing the large door open slowly and gently.

Glacier had kept her eyes on the trio, waiting until the door closed behind them before turning to look at Beiphuth as the Green, Brown and White female came out with some cups of drink, placing each one of the cups infront of Thorn, Battlewinner, Coral and Glacier.

"Thank you" Glacier bowed her head slightly towards Beiphuth, ruffling her wings slightly as her tail curled around her chair, causing the wood to creak slightly.

Glacier's cup was a white-Blue colour with some ice around the rim, along with some dark blue encrusted gems that wrapped around near the rim and around the handle, Thorn's was a orange and yellow cup, with the handle representing that of a scorpion's tail, with dark orange and white gems, while Battlewinner's cup was a dark purple and black, with what seemed to be little scales that covered her cup, purple and red gems covered her cup, sticking out from the blackness within, and Coral's was mostly an ocean blue, along with a few white swirls, with green, cyan and blue gems encrusted within the handle and near the rim of the cup, the handle represented a carved out wave.

Glacier gripped the cup in front of her gently, tapping her index talon against the cool, smooth and bejewelled surface of the cup, thinking on what to ask while she glanced at the liquid within the cup, Beiphuth by now had joined them, sitting down at her own chair as she held her cup within her talons. "is there anything else you all would like?". She asked them, her tail waving slowly behind her while her wings ruffled softly.

"No thank you, I believe we are all alright with just refreshments, but thank you for offering" Glacier bowed her head slightly towards Beiphuth, keeping her gaze towards her before glancing down to the cup within her talons, her frown deepening slightly as if in thought.

Battlewinner lifted her gaze from her cup, glancing towards Glacier, then at Beiphuth before glancing back at Glacier, letting out an irritated snort, smoke billowing from her nostrils as Glacier glanced towards Battlewinner. "Please Battlewinner, do try to calm yourself down, it is very disrespectful of you to continue to act in this manner, and quite frankly distracting, right now we need to focus on the more important things, and not on this silly squabbling". Glacier said softly, her tail swishing momentarily from side to side in a quickened and slightly irritated pace, she focused her gaze upon Beiphuth, tilting her head slightly to the side while she waited for an answer to her question.

Beiphuth sipped her drink, while looking down at the table, knowing that she must answer Glacier's earlier question, but was thinking on how to start, and more importantly, how much she was willing to give Glacier at this time! But she knew she had to say something, due to the statement she had just made!

Beiphuth's eyes remained fixed on the table, her head lowered as she spoke. "My son is slowly dying, and yet, there is nothing I can do about it!" tears began to well up and stream down Beiphuth's face, the thought of losing her last surviving youngling; was just too much for her to bare, but there was nothing she could do about it, now she was talking to someone else about it, of whom, she didn't know, which caused her to become even more emotional, she let out a shaky breath, keeping herself in check, if only barely.

Beiphuth placed her forepaws upon the table, tears continued to flow down her face as she closed her eyes, feeling her walls collapsing in on her, as the thought of her son flooded her mind. Glacier glanced over at Battlewinner, and then at Coral and Thorn, all of them looked just as shocked and surprised as she did, Glacier wondered if the realisation of Beiphuth's shocking statement had slammed into them, just as it did her, for it appeared there was nothing wrong with the Prince at all, yet again, Glacier didn't look that closely at him!

Glacier glanced down at her cup, her eyes narrowing, then widening as she struggled to say something, for she knew a mothers love is second to none. Licking her lips, she placed her cup down, glancing at Beiphuth, taking a deep breath only for her to speak.

"Beiphuth, I cannot begin to understand what you and your husband have been through, for I myself have never been through such pain and agony! Instead of us conversing as Queens, perhaps it would be better if we spoke as mothers? Or, if you feel you can't speak, then we can just sit here if you would prefer". Glacier said, her voice wavering slightly as she kept her gaze on Beiphuth, the room had fallen silent, not a single sound was heard, the other Queens kept quiet, for they were not sure on what to say right now.

Thorn raised her head, her ears perking up as she spoke. "Would you like to perhaps go for a swim?" Thorn said, still gripping her cup, swishing the liquid around inside "Or a short fly? I myself do find grabbing a bit of fresh air to be wonderful, perhaps you would like to join me?" The Sandwing Queen put forth the question to Beiphuth, tilting her head in a quizzical manner. "Perhaps a gentle stroll around the castle? I have seen some of your gorgeous art, and the architecture is splendid!" Beiphuth gave it a thought, she ruffled her wings while her tail swished behind her along the marbled floor, she then lowered her head, letting out a soft huff of air. "I-... I think I'll love a swim and a fly, and of course show you ladies around the castle and grounds"

Beiphuth said, glancing over at Glacier then towards Battlewinner, Coral and Thorn, she raised her head, tilting it slightly to the side, her forepaws still upon the table as she then grabbed her cup gently, lowering her head to take a sip from her cup. All the while Glacier had taken another sip from her cup, keeping her gaze upon Beiphuth, her mind in constant thought.

"Well, I myself am going to wait outside for the rest of you, the idea of a swim just gets me all Excited!" Coral said, earning an eye roll from Battlewinner followed by a groan. "Well, take your Seawing rear and leave" She commented under her breath, earning a nudge from Glacier along with an icy stare, Glacier then raised her head, placing her cup down before raising up from her chair. "I believe I will join you Coral dear". She commented while Thorn and Beiphuth followed suit, with Battlewinner being the last to follow them.

They made their way through the long corridor that led right to the front entrance, the countless red candles that ran along the walls of the corridor lit up the hallway with a gentle red light, it was early evening outside, the sun slowly setting, yet there was still plenty of time as the three moons slowly rose up from the horizon.

Beiphuth knocked on the double doors three times, causing it to open slowly and expose them to the outside air, a rush of cool summer wind blew against them as Coral made her way towards the shoreline while Thorn snapped her wings open, taking to the sky as Battlewinner followed her, Glacier remained beside Beiphuth, watching the three other Queens enjoy the time outside.

Glacier breathed in, the cool air filling her lungs while her tail curled around her body, ruffling her wings, it felt good to once again feel the outside breeze against her scales. "I must say, it feels wonderful to be outside in the fresh air once again!" Glacier said, taking in a deep breath, closing her eyes as a rather cool breeze blew against her.

Beiphuth glanced towards Glacier, giving a subtle nod of agreement whilst watching the other Queens enjoying themselves, as she too took a deep breath in!

suddenly her ears twitched, as the sound of talons clicking upon hard stone came from behind, causing herself and Glacier to turn their heads. "Ah, finally you have all decided to join us!" Beiphuth said with a smile, as both herself and Glacier glanced at Blaze, Glory and Ruby who were joyfully trotting towards them, all the while Beiphuth had slowly turned her body to face them as her tail flicked regally behind her.

As the three ran by Beiphith, Blaze gave a meek little grin whilst Ruby tilted her head in a quizzical manner, but Glory, whilst looking at Beiphuth, gave a stuck up little snort as she past them both, which actually made Beiphuth giggle, but Glacier was floored that Glory thought that she could actually get away with such behaviour, to actually show herself up in such a manner, in front of another Queen, but, in another Queen's castle of whom had invited her to stay! To disrespect the hostess, a Queen non the less, under her own roof, was unforgivable! She had to say something at the earliest opportunity! She herself would not act in such a manner, and most certainly frowned upon others that acted in such a way, Glory has to be reminded what it means to be Queen! Glacier thought to herself!

Beiphuth said. "I must say Glory is such a lovely girl, and a bit cheeky with it, quite beautiful really." Beiphuth glanced at Glacier, a smile upon her snout. "You must be so proud!" Glacier forced a smile, though within her mind, she was bubbling with anger, luckily Gromeontunth wasn't around, she would talk with Glory later!

"Why yes" Said Glacier "I am very proud of my fellow Queens, especially of what they have achieved and what they have become, all of us kingdoms now work as one, no more wars as of recently" She commented, ruffling her wings while her tail curled around behind her, she kept her head up in a regal manner as she passed Beiphuth, heading towards where the rest of the Queens had gone too, the sight of her fellow queens enjoying the evening was delightful, be it in the ocean or flying through the sky or playing at the waters edge; her talons clicking against the stone path as she slowly made her way, when suddenly, she found her paws digging into something soft which made her stop! Lowering her snout, she stared at the ground below her as she started to shuffle her paws slightly from side to side, there was something definitely off, for what she seemed to notice, was that she was standing on sand! She had seen the desert many times, and felt the fine particles between her paws, yet, this sand felt... different, even though it looked like sand.

"Why... does this sand feel... different?" Glacier said to herself, with a quizzical look upon her face while she scooped up some sand within her forepaw, she brought it right up to her snout and examined it closely, though upon examining it, it just looked like sand! Just plain old sand and yet, it didn't feel quite right, her tail swished gently behind her as she tilted her head to the side slightly, sitting down upon her haunches, letting the sand escape slowly from one forepaw to the other, letting it slip between her talons and eventually falling back onto the beach that she had found herself upon, she just stared down at it, something was off and it made her uneasy, but it wasn't just the sand !

"What is really going on here!" she said quietly to herself.

Glacier stood up slowly, and as she did so, rubbed her forepaws together in an attempt to remove the remaining sand from her paws, she stood there for a little while making sure that all the sand that she could see was gone, but, she would have to clean her paws when she returned to the castle.

She puffed out a little snort and then raised her head to glance around, she then looked up at the setting sun, all sorts of colours filled the sky, from reds, to yellows to pinks to blues to purples. "Beautiful, Absolutely beautiful!" Glacier whispered to herself, only to then glance to her left where a great forest arched around the the back of the castle, it's long dark twisted and heavily leaved branches branched out from each of the many huge ancient trunks that seemed to dwarf the castle, but oh my, was it beautiful to look at!

Glacier took in a deep breath as she continued to look around her, the sun was starting to get even lower in the sky as the shadows began to creep further and further, the black jagged rocks down near the ocean were beginning to look more ominous in the setting sun.

All of a sudden she heard talking, and as she turned her head, she saw Ruby and Blaze talking and then Glory hanging upside down by her tail from one of the branches, her long tail was jiggling all over the place, making her body jolt as if she was being struck by lightning, making Glacier laugh out loud! "Glory, you sure are funny at times". She said.

Glacier then looked upwards at the sky, watching Thorn and Battlewinner continue their flight, doing loops, spins and backflips, and then glanced towards the ocean, looking for Coral but she couldn't see her. "Coral, where are you?" Glacier called out, looking for the blue Dragoness while she kept on making her way towards the ocean, her paws splashing in small pools of water as she neared where the water met the beach, she didn't mind getting her paws covered in the wet stuff, for all she cared about was finding and making sure Coral was okay.

She stopped once the waves started lapping around her ankles, looking down she turned her head left then right while searching the water for any sign of the Seawing Queen, she was growing concerned, because it was getting darker by the minute, the three moons slowly rose over the horizon while the sun slowly fell down over the ocean, dipping below the horizon as the countless colours began to fade into the night.

Beiphuth had now come back out of the castle, calling out to all of the royals as Glacier turned her head to look at her, her voice ringing in her ears. "Okay ladies, it's time to come in for supper!". The sunset colours made her scales appear oddly coloured as she stood next to the castle entrance, holding what appeared to be a lantern in her left forepaw while in her right, she was holding the very same distinctive cane from when they first met.

Coral poked her head out from the water, her gills pulsing slightly as she slowly came out of the ocean, her long tail swishing behind her, with her head down and remained down as she passed Glacier. "Where did you disappear off to?" Glacier questioned, as she stood there for a moment waiting for a response, but she didn't get one, which was extremely odd! "Coral...Coral are you alright dear?" Glacier said, as she just stared at her for a moment whilst frozen to the spot as Coral continued slowly up towards the castle. Glacier just stared as a frown appeared on her face. She now started to follow on behind the blue Queen. "Coral, are you alright? Glacier said once again. "This is not like Coral at all!" Glacier said quietly to herself, letting a little snort escape from her nostrils and with a little bit of concern that was, by now, so evident in her voice.

suddenly lightning flashed on the horizon which caused Glacier to stop and glance backwards, the lightning had illuminated extremely large and menacing looking storm clouds that was heading in their direction, a fter a few seconds a soft low, continuous rumble at first echoed as it seemed to gather pace as it eventually galloped across the sky.

Suddenly Glaciers ears flicked slightly, as she became aware of, what sounded like, the soft padding of paws coming closer, and as she started turn to where the sound was coming from, she heard the voice of Beiphuth. "Glacier, are you okay? I think there's a storm coming" and as Beiphuth stopped beside Glacier she said. "Are you sure you're ok because you seem rather confused".

The sun by now had fully disappeared beyond the horizon, the countless stars filled the sky as Glacier replied. "Oh, yes I am quite alright thank you, I was about to come back in" The Icewing Queen ruffled her wings as both females started their walk back towards the castle, their talons clicking against the stone path before heading inside while rain started to fall from the darkening sky.

Beiphuth and Glacier made their way down the long corridor towards where the dining room was. "Are the others in?". Glacier questioned, glancing to her left at Beiphuth, to which Beiphuth responded. "Why yes, Blaze, Glory and Ruby went back inside when I called... I'm surprised you didn't hear the commotion that Blaze and Glory caused" Glacier slowed a bit, a bit shocked that she hadn't heard that, though after a few seconds she sped back up while Beiphuth continued to talk.

"Coral seems to be in no mood to chat, I do wonder why that is?" Glacier heard her mumble out, her left ear twitching in the direction of her voice, her long white tail snaked behind her while her wings rested against her sides, tucked neatly as the two turned to the right and entered the large dining room once again.

"Oh Glacier, I was getting worried that you had remained outside in that horrible storm!" As Blaze said excitedly while Glory glared at Blaze, letting out an irritated snort!

This caught the attention of Glacier as she snapped her head around to look at Glory, she took in a deep breath, before letting it out slowly, showing Glory and her fellow Queens that enough was enough! Ruffling her wings slightly while she remained where she stood, Glacier shook her head from side to side before speaking in her normal regal tone, albeit with more than just a hint of authority and disappointment. "Glory, I need to chat with you... Alone!" The whole room had suddenly gone silent, Glory's scales turned to a white-green colour while lowering her head, she climbed off of her chair and made her way around the table, making her way past Beiphuth and Glacier, looking up to meet Glacier's dark cold eyes that burnt into her like daggers! Glacier then turned on the spot to follow Glory, though found Beiphuth's paw suddenly upon her shoulder. "Do be gentle on her, she just isn't used to being without her sun" the Green, Brown and White dragoness whispered out.

Glacier though irritated, gave a soft nod, clearing her throat before making her way out of the room and into the hallway where Glory was currently sat. "Glory! Get up and move further down the corridor!" The Icewing spoke out with a sharp sting in her voice, making the Rainwing flinch slightly before she got up and made her way further away from the dining room. "Glory, the way you acted towards Beiphuth was Not the way Any Queen would act... you are a Queen... aren't you?" Glacier questioned as she slowly sat down in front of the Rainwing while the smaller female raised her head to look at the white dragoness.

Glacier tapped a forepaw talon against the smooth stone floor that they sat upon as she waited for the Rainwing to respond. "Well? aren't you going to say anything?" Glacier spoke again, this time raising her voice a bit, her facial expressions unreadable except from the disappointment that covered her features.

Glory let out a snort, turning her head from side to side, staring down the corridor while her thin long tail curled around herself, then suddenly blurting out. "Blaze acts immature, Battlewinner is always grumpy, Coral does nothing by talk about her stupid poems and Thorn is nothing but optimistic and cheerful all the time, Which I might add... makes me angry!" She glanced back at Glacier, her tail twitching as anger bubbled up inside of her, seeing that the Icewing Queen had kept her gaze upon her constantly, seemingly listening to what the Rainwing had to say. "And you, you have done Nothing but be a pain, always complaining about the mistakes I make!" as she said in a childish and bitchy manner {Glory do this, Glory do that, No Glory, don't do that, Glory why did you let this happen} Just for once, can you shut up!" The Rainwing snapped her wings open, her scales turning to a bright red as wisps of smoke flowed from her nostrils.

Glacier remained sat on her haunches, rearing her head back from the Rainwing's sudden and, quiet frankly, deliberate outburst which was comically childish and unexpected, the outburst must have been rather loud as the younger Queens poked their heads around the door frame, giggling. "Is everything okay? we heard an argument going on out here, and well, I couldn't just sit there you know, after all, we Queens need to look after each other". As Ruby, Thorn and Blaze continued to giggle to each other.

Glacier rolled her eyes, letting frost breath to escape her maw slightly, standing up onto her paws she turned and looked back at the three Queens as frost billowed from her nostrils, speaking in a low, slow and controlled voice. "I assure you Ruby, Glory and I are quite alright here, thank you!" She turned back to look at Glory, narrowing her eyes, from which Glory tried her best to become as small as possible, pale greens dancing over her scales while the royal party all went back into the dining room, leaving Glacier and Glory alone once more.

"I would have your head for shouting at me like that..." Glacier growled in a low soft tone, a clicking sound coming from her throat as she leaned in towards Glory and said. "Remember where you are and... Who you are... And more importantly... Why we are here!" She then raised her head back up, letting out a snort as frost breath then suddenly surrounded Glory "Though... since I am a Queen, and a Lady at that, I feel it is best if I return to the dining room... are you coming?"

Glory found herself frozen to the spot in absolute fear, her eyes wide from the lecture she had just received from Glacier, knowing that this was far from over, bowing her head she forced herself to move, standing still for a few seconds in the corridor before making her way past Glacier, all the time feeling the Icewing's gaze upon her back.

The two entered the dining room once again, Glory kept her head down as she sat at the table, tucking her wings against her sides as Glacier passed her, feeling the Icewing's gaze upon her still as Glacier took her own seat.

"Ah, so glad that you two have decided to come back" Beiphuth's voice rang out, making Glacier gaze over at their hostess, suddenly, she noticed that Gromeontunth was at the table once again, she took in a deep breath before letting it out slowly to calm herself down.

Beiphuth placed down several bowls in the centre of the table, that were filled to the brim with all kinds of foods, Beiphuth sat down beside her husband and said. "Please, do help yourself ladies". She then turned to her husband, looking up at him before saying. "Would you like me to get you some food my love?" Gromeontunth glanced over to his wife before replying with a loving smile upon his snout. "Why yes dear, I'm ready for something to eat right now, for it smells delightful". He had a scroll in front of him, writing something down upon it, his talon covered in ink as he scribbled over the scroll.

Glacier found her curiosity grow within her, wondering what the large Drainwing was writing down, she felt the urge to ask, though found it improper to do so, she glanced down at her plate, not noticing that Gromeontunth had glanced up from his scroll to gaze at her, all the while still writing.

(Glacier...) Glacier shot her head up, hearing Gromeontunth's voice within her mind, she was more used to it by now, though it still made her feel a little uneasy, she calmed herself before glancing towards where Gromeontunth was sat, finding that he still had his gaze upon the scroll, his tail swishing in a slow manner behind him as she continued to look upon him, thinking of the words within her mind.

[Lets see if I can do this. Oh good grief, what am I doing? Well if it doesn't work then at least I won't be making a fool of myself. So here goes. What I wish to ask, if I may, is how your son is doing?] Just then a smile had grown on Gromeontunth's snout, as he replied. (He is absolutely fine, thank you for asking.) Glacier was so shocked that she bounced ever so slightly in her seat, which caused Battlewinner to look at glacier in a quizzical manner, as she asked quietly. "What are you doing Glacier? Why are you bouncing about?" Glacier just stared at her for a second and then looked back at Gromeontunth, of whom, by now, had a grin from ear to ear.

Beiphuth then looked at Glacier and said. "Are you alright Glacier my dear, because you haven't eaten anything yet, or even put anything on your plate. Would you like me to get something for you?" Glacier glanced down at her plate, finding that it was indeed empty, closing her eyes for a few seconds to relax herself before responding.

"I... I am fine thank you Beiphuth" Whilst bowing slightly towards her hostess, rising up from her chair she looked at the feast that was laid out before her, she took her time choosing before finally reaching out to select her chosen items, placing a few upon her plate, she raised her head momentarily, glancing around the room at everyone before noticing that Coral appeared to be oddly quiet, her head was down and she seemed to be picking at food upon her plate, not talking to anyone. Glacier thought this to be extremely odd and completely out of character, which made her worry even more given the reaction she had received when Coral finally appeared from the ocean! Glacier frowned as she sat down, she started taking her first few bites whilst still gazing at her. She thought to herself (I have to speak to her immediately, something isn't right) she looked down at her plate and then looked around the room when suddenly, she caught Gromeontunth looking at Coral and then at her.

Glacier gave a little snort at she stared directly at Gromeontunth, before saying to herself. (Please can you not keep doing that, it makes me very uneasy. But more importantly, is very intrusive and quite unnecessary!)

she stared at him with her snout down ever so slightly. Gromeontunth couldn't help himself as a little smile formed upon his snout as he looked down at his plate.

Clearing her throat she turned her gaze downwards to look upon her plate, grabbing her fork with a forepaw, remaining as her royal regal self, she started to eat. All the while glancing over at Coral, every now and then, to make sure the Seawing was eating her supper. She was indeed eating but her gaze remained constantly upon her plate, not looking at anything else, completely motionless, that was apart from lifting her fork, every now and then, with little bits of food on. Glacier frowned again, wishing she could go to her right this second, but it would be impolite to do anything now, it would just have to wait.

"Beiphuth... If I may, could I ask about your son, you said that your son is... Unwell? Could I ask you to explain a little about his sickness to us? Though if you feel you can't, I completely understand, for I am a mother of three myself!" Glacier said, while eating little bits from her plate, her gaze now fixed upon Beiphuth, her tail idly swishing behind her, taking long yet slow waves as by now the room had gone quiet as Beiphuth just stared down at her plate, a thoughtful expression upon her face. She ruffled her wings slightly while raising her head to look at Glacier and the rest of the Queens.

she looked at them for sometime, taking in a deep breath and then letting it out slowly whilst lowering her head. She then said with a tremble within her voice. "Our son is not just unwell...he... he is dying!"

Gasps could be heard by all the royals which sat around the table, including Glacier. Soft mumbles began to fill the room as the Queens whispered to one another for a moment, before the room fell silent once more.

Battlewinner then said in a soft almost whispered voice. "That... was something I was not expecting.. at all!" directing her words at Glacier, who was sat to her right, the Icewing giving her a glance as she whispered back. "Neither did I dear" Glacier turned her gaze back to Beiphuth, straightening her posture as her ear rings clinked against her scales while ruffling her wings.

The other Queens remained quiet, Blaze raised her head, nearly dropping her fork from hearing what Beiphuth had just said. "Wait what! What do you mean?!" The Sandwing Princess cried out. Her facial expressions turning to one of utter devastation as she drew in a sharp intake of breath; desperately looking around the room at her fellow Queens as her ears drooped whilst her eyes welled up, she lowered her head and at the same time brought up both forepaws to her snout whilst closing her eyes as tears started to roll down her face.

Ruby shifted about on her chair slightly, the countless jewellery clinking against her scaled body whilst placing her fork down upon the table, she struggled to keep her head up in a regal manner, her long red tail swishing behind her, coiling slightly then flicking about while her wings twitched, her gaze locked upon Beiphuth as first shock, then an unbelievable crushing feeling of heart felt sorrow washed through her. She tilted her head to one side whilst slowly closing her eyes as her paws slowly came up to cover her heart. "I cannot begin to understand what you are going through, as the very thought of myself losing my only son is too much to bare, let along go through it as you are" She Straightened her posture, licking her dry lips before continuing. "Is there nothing that can be done to... rid him of this sickness?".

Beiphuth sat there for a few seconds, her forepaws upon the table as she aimed her gaze down upon the oak wood, Gromeontunth, feeling the distress of his wife, curled his thicker tail around his wife's tail whilst gripping her forepaws within his as she looked up at him. He took a deep breath, letting it out slowly as he turned his gaze to the Queens around the table, a look of sadness clouding the colour within his eyes. "I am afraid that there is nothing to save our little Krystal... We have searched the lands for thousands of years for a cure, yet even with our determined efforts, it came to nothing, now... now we are spending as much time with him as possible before he passes!" Gromeontunth held his head low.

Glacier said, as she looked at them both and the love that they had for one another, accompanied with undeniable grief that was so evident, but so incredibly powerful that seemed to flood the entire room instantly, that was now completely overwhelming her! "Are you sure, are you absolutely sure there is nothing that can be done? May I ask what is wrong with him? We may be able to help... in some way! I am...NO...we are so very, very sorry!" Glacier tried not to show too much emotion, but it was impossible! She couldn't help but shed a tear as she lowered her head, but at the same time, lifting a forepaw to wipe the tears from her eyes and snout, she then found that she was struggling with herself, because she was a Queen. She forced herself to be more professional and regal, she lifted her head, slowly looking left then right at her fellow Queens before looking at Bephuth and Gromeontunth.

Gromeontunth rose his head up slightly, his large dark wings resting against his sides with his paws still gripping his wife's smaller paws as he glanced at all of the Queens, shaking his head from side to side whilst looking down at the table, thinking on what to say to them, his mind flowing with thoughts, when suddenly Krystal's voice came out of nowhere, Beiphuth, Gromeontunth and the Queens all glanced at the entrance of the dining room.

"Krystal, aren't you meant to be asleep!" Beiphuth said as she began to scurry around the table, padding up to her son whilst she noticed a few drops of blue glowing liquid dripping from his body. "I am feeling better mother" He said to his mother as she grabbed a towel from a small cupboard which was situated beside the entrance to the dining room. He rolled his eyes, feeling her run the towel over his body, cleaning him of any left over blue liquid that stained his scales, all the Queen's looked at each other, Ruby frowned as she glanced at Glacier and Battlewinner, whom were also frowning themselves, clearly thinking the same thing as she was.

By now Blaze had rushed around the large table, the large Sandwing almost tripping over her own tail as she made her way towards the larger dragon, throwing her forepaws firmly around him as she hugged him, she suddenly found tears welling up as she said. "You poor, poor thing!" Her body felt warm to the touch, Krystal's eyes widening as he took a step backwards, he didn't quite know what to do with his forepaws as Blaze kept on hugging him, and she most definitely had quite a firm grip. He couldn't help but look around the room only to see that everyone was looking at him, he didn't know what to do, suddenly he found himself saying "There, there". whilst awkwardly patting her gently on the back.

"Now now dear, do let Krystal go". Thorn said, covering her snout with a forepaw, trying to not laugh as she watched the event in front of her unfold "poor Krystal!" The Sandwing Queen giggled to herself, watching Blaze let go of Krystal only to then rush back to her seat beside Thorn, attempting to dry her eyes with a forepaw, wiping away the tears. "I can't believe it, he is utterly gorgeous!" She sniffled out, as the rest of the Queens stared at Blaze.

Battlewinner shook her head, letting out a tut as she glanced over at Glacier.

Krystal hadn't moved from where he stood, a look of utter confusion, bewilderment and embarrassment as he whipped his head around to look at his father, a look of amusement covered Gromeontunth's face while Beiphuth hadn't moved from her son's side.

"Well... shall we sit down my little black diamond?" She by now had started her way back to Gromeontunth, her tail swishing behind her as Krystal started to follow his mother, he glanced over at the Queen who were still sat around the table, his eyes roaming over each of them, taking in their features, feeling their minds until, his eyes locked onto Glacier's, finding the Icewing Queen staring back at him, her head tilted to one side slightly, her wings tucked neatly against her back as she continued to stare at him. He sensed something different about her, the energy and thoughts that radiated from her was something he had never encountered before, he found her to be by far the most beautiful dragoness he had laid his eyes upon, his eyes roamed over her features, the countless spikes that ran down her back, her large wings, the jewellery that hung from her body only added to her beauty, from her ear rings to the ring that was on her index talon, his eyes continued to roam over her form, taking in her unbelievable beauty, then he stared back into her eyes, the two arctic blue orbs that gazed back at him made him shiver slightly, he had forgotten that he was staring, his father's voice sounding within his mind, shaking him from his transfixed stare.

(My son, do stop staring at Glacier and take a seat, I know you like her, though it is rude to stare) His voice was gentle, understanding and respectful. Krystal shook his head, blinking a few times before taking his seat beside his mother, though when he looked back up, he saw All the Queens staring at him, Glacier held a small smirk, her eyes fixed upon his, Battlewinner kept on glancing between Glacier and Krystal, confusion before realisation flashed in her eyes, Coral couldn't care less, for she had more pressing matters to think about, Blaze had a dreamy look, Thorn was struggling to maintain a regal posture, though found a grin forcing its way upon her snout, and Ruby had a similar look to that of Glacier.

Gromeontunth looked at Glacier for a moment as a slight smirk began to form upon his snout, He quickly looked down as he said within his mind to Glacier. (I think it's only right that you know exactly what has happened to Krystal, for I think that if we can communicate like this for a moment then it would make it a little easier, that is... only if you agree of course? If you think that doing it this way will be too uncomfortable for you then I completely understand!) Glacier stared at Gromeontunth for a few seconds before bowing her head ever so slightly towards him.

Gromeontunth said to Glacier, telepathically. (Krystal was poisoned by dark animus magic that was used by the Shadowwings). Glacier then replied within her mind, (Shadowwings! Shadowwings? I have never heard of that race of dragon before, who are they? And why haven't I ever heard of them! For there has never been any mention of them in any of the scrolls! And dark animus! Really?

Gromeontunth looked at her with a frown. (Drainwings live off.. and can survive off the power and energy that is generated within the planet, and... can also use the resources within that to use as what looks like, to other dragons, as a sort of magic, but for only good! You with me so far?) Gomeontunth slightly lowered his head as he looked at Glacier as if he was waiting for her approval before carrying on!

Glacier narrowed her eyes slightly as she tried to process the information that Gromeontuth had just laid upon her, that seemed, to him, to be in a completely matter of fact sort of way. She had even more questions that before, as she found herself saying aloud "What on three moon".

Battlewinner snapped her head around. "What? What's wrong?" She said to Glacier.

Glacier replied. "Oh... nothing, Just thinking out loud" as a smile formed upon Glacier's snout. Battlewinner just stared at her with a perplexed look upon her face. "Are you sure Glacier? You seem odd... not yourself... What were you so shocked about?" Battlewinner just stared at her motionless, waiting for a reply. Glacier then replied, in a sort of whisper. "Sorry, I'm just a little frustrated because we are no further forward in learning what has gone on really! And found myself venting that, which you are correct in pointing that out and is indeed not like me!"

(Well done Glacier) Came the voice within her head that was Gromeontunth.

Glacier found herself feeling very awkward as she continued to look at Battlewinner. Her forepaw came up to her face as if to brush something away as an awkward smile formed upon her snout. Battlewinner frowned even more at her for a few seconds before breaking her stare!

Beiphuth couldn't help but notice what was going on, she stared at the table for a moment, then look up abruptly before saying. "I know that the younger royals have had the chance to look at them, but, as I look around the room I can't help but notice the beautiful jewellery that my royal guests are wearing, would you allow me to bring in my own and the jewellery that has been handed down, not just to myself, but to my husband". Beiphuth then looked at her husband. "That is if it's alright by you, my darling". "Yes, of course, what a good idea my love". Gromeontunth replied.

Blaze couldn't contain herself, she started clapping excitedly. "How wonderful". She said, as her jewellery around her neck started clanking together, whilst her earrings kept chinking upon her scales.

Battlewinner sat motionless as she then slowly turned her head towards Blaze. "Really Blaze!... please calm down!" She said, as a tut suddenly came from her as she slowly turned her head to look back at Glacier once again. But Glacier wasn't looking at Battlewinner, she was looking at Gomeontunth. Which caused Battlewinner to look at Gromeontunth and then back at Glacier, a small snort came from Battlewinner causing a little puff of smoke to rise, as she then turned her attention to Beiphuth, only to see her walking towards the door and eventually disappear out of the room!

The Queens remained around the table, there was a very different feel to the dinning room because there was a buzz of excited conversation; due to the fact that they were going to see the royal jewels up close and personal. "I really hope that we get to touch them, Oh please say that she lets us touch them!" Blaze said excitedly and very loudly. Battlewinner, upon hearing that statement from Blaze, just buried her face into her forepaws, she had never felt so embarrassed. Blaze then said. "I bet... That when she brings them to me, she will let me try them on... Then... I will be the most beautiful of you all! As she stood up in front of the table with her forepaws out stretched. Battlewinner couldn't take anymore. "For goodness sake Blaze, sit down and stop showing us up like that...Remember who you are and what you represent, Please! She said as quietly as she could while showing her teeth. she then said. "If I have to remind you of that, then you really are stupid!" Krystal sat beside his father watching what had just occurred when he suddenly started laughing to himself, his father glared at him for a moment, making Krystal to lower his head as he now found himself staring at his plate.

Glacier remained in her seat when suddenly Beiphuth poked her head around the corner of the entrance. she seemed like a very excited rich auntie. "Well, aren't you coming? I need help you see, to carry all these beautiful items, and it's quite a lot, but some of it is ridiculously heavy! so...Are you coming"? She then turned her attention to Battlewinner. "Battlewinner dear, could you come also, because I've got something for you to look at that may be of great interest and I'm sure you will like very much"! She then turned to face the hall way as she said. "Now.. Come along dear's!"

Battlewinner, along with Coral, Thorn and Ruby all got up and made their way out of the dining room, following behind Beiphuth. (Krystal, come along as well darling, your father needs some alone time) Her voice echoed within his mind, making the Prince to jump slightly in his seat from his mothers sudden intrusion since he was distracted by the beautiful Icewing that sat opposite him. (Coming mother!)

He then jumped down from his chair, trotting around the table, stopping in his tracks as he turned to face Glacier and gave a bow to her, he then turned on his paws and left the room, his long tail swishing behind him as it was the last thing to disappear around the corner, leaving Gromeontunth and Glacier alone within the room.

Glacier had to admit, it was a shock for Krystal to bow to her, something she wasn't expecting from him, though after the Prince had left the room, she turned her gaze back to Gromeontunth, ruffling her wings slightly while her tail snaked around her chair as she opened her mouth to speak. "Please... do allow me to explain more of Krystal's sickness" Gromeontunth said, which intern made Glacier close her mouth, her ears perking up as to listen to what the larger male had to say, her arctic blue eyes focused upon his while he shifted slightly upon his large seat, he placed his forepaws upon the table, the claws digging slightly into the posh wooden surface while his long tail snaked around behind him, he looked left then right, thinking on how to say what he needed to say.

"The Shadowwings.. think.. that Krystal is dead, they couldn't harm me with their dark animus, though knew they could harm the one thing that I hold dear to my heart-" "your son.." Glacier whispered out over the table at him, glancing downwards to the wooden surface as he continued on. "They knew that by murdering him, like they did with our other younglings, that it would mean the end of the Drainwing reign and Kingdom, though they have no idea that Krystal is still alive. We've managed to slow down the dark animus to nearly the point of halting it, yet it still spreads throughout him, albeit at a very slow pace"

Glacier's facial expressions turned to one of confusion and thoughtfulness, raising her head to look at Gromeontunth. "I need to ask, if I may... What do you mean by Dark animus, for thousands of years we kingdoms have only known of one Animus magic, we have never heard of this 'Dark Animus', and can't you just rid him of this as you have managed to slow it down to the point of halting, as you said? And another thing is, who are the Shadowwings?" She asked, completely confused while he just looked at her, thinking on what she had just said, flicking his gaze down to the table once again. "You speak of and only know of the raw Animus, the dark Animus is derived from the dark and twisted Animus. The light Animus that we currently used... Is the one that you saw being used for our wall defences back in the day, and the very same one that we use hear, but it is much less obvious, which I hope that you can appreciate that".

"By the moons... My mind has just been blown" As she stretched her forepaws up behind her head as she looked up, while stretching her back before relaxing back down to look upon Gromeontunth once again. She breathed in sharply only to let it out slowly, to then ask. "So how have you been able to separate the different Animus... That is if you don't mind me asking, and, will it eventually 'kill' Krystal? Or will it remain at it is for the rest of his life?"

Gromeontunth answered. "Yes.. it is slowly killing him, he has good days and bad days, but yes, it will kill him!" Gromeontunth looked down as he then said. "If we can't find a cure, then yes... He will die!"

Glacier said. "This maybe a stupid question, but..., have tried to find a cure?"

Gromeontunth replied. "Yes... We've searched for thousands of years for a cure, but to no avail. We did have a scroll with all the different kinds of Animus, but during the war with the Shadowwings, it was lost!"

Glacier looked at Gromeontunth with a slight frown. "May I just ask, when you showed us the war against your city, I only saw dragons led by the Queen's from the other kingdoms... But, believe me when I say, that, that didn't only confuse me... Because I couldn't quite comprehend what I was looking at! But also ashamed me greatly!"

As she shook her head whilst looking down.

She then said. "It has made me question everything!" She then looked straight at him as she said. "But I don't recall seeing another... Unidentified dragon from an unknown kingdom there though! But then again , maybe, it would seem that I have missed that, given the absolute devastation at the time!"

Gromeontunth looked at her as he closed his mouth firmly shut, he breathed in deeply through his nostrils whilst starting to lean forwards before readjusting himself on his chair, only to then breathe back out through his nostrils. Placing his left forepaw upon the table whilst raising his right paw up to his snout, tapping a talon against his scaled snout a few times in thought, thinking on what Glacier had said, he closed his eyes, thinking about what to say next, and more importantly, how to continue this conversation.

The two of them sat still around the table for a few seconds, Gromeontunth kept his eyes closed while Glacier looked on, her tail remained curled around her chair as she waited in anticipation for what he had to say next, her head tilted to the side slightly, her ears twitching as she kept her focus on him. "Gromeontunth, are you alright?" She questioned, causing him to open his eyes to stare at her, his own tail curled around behind him while his wings shuffled slightly upon his back as he spoke up. "I believe that I should explain who the Shadowwings are".

Glacier glanced towards the entrance to the dining room, making sure none of her fellow Queens had returned before she looked back at Gromeontunth. "That would help me to understand things better, though if you don't mind... Could I have a drink?" She asked, cocking her head slightly to the side, her ears twitching while Gromeontunth gave a slight nod. "Of course, Though please... No need to get up-" With that he waved a forepaw in the direction of her cup, with it seemingly refilling with the same refreshment she had previously.

Once he had refilled her cup, he placed his right forepaw back down upon the table, tapping a talon against the wooden surface as he spoke up. "The Shadowwings used to be Drainwings, though they were greedy, they aimed to destroy the Drainwings and take control of the grand city, though they knew they were outmatched, and by using the Dark Animus, the Shadowwing leader went to each of the Kingdoms, and poisoned each of the Queens minds, one by one, the Shadowwings turned each Kingdom against the Drainwings"

He waved his forepaw across the table, showing her an almost birds eye view of Pyrrhia, showing each of the Kingdoms, Glacier rose from her seat to look over the table better, her eyes taking in the map before her, gazing at the well detailed miniature continent before her, she saw the borders of each of the Kingdoms, yet they looked vastly different to the well known map of current times.

To the north she noticed the Icewing kingdom was called the Snowwing kingdom, it was more expansive, it's borders spanning well into current Sandwing territory.

"We used to be the Snowwings?" She glanced up at Gromeontunth, noticing him glancing at her as he gave a nod. "Indeed, after the collapse of the Drainwing kingdom, slowly the Snowings began to cut themselves off from the other Kingdoms, they became more aggressive, showed less emotion and punished any Snowwing that showed weakness, after some time they created the 'Circle system', a ranking system which split all Snowwings up into seven ranks, the lower your rank, the worse you were treated, after some more time, the Snowwings changed their name to the Icewings, which, I must say, did fit your Kingdom perfectly for the way you treated the other Kingdoms" He snorted, shaking his head as he remembered the way the Snowwings acted throughout the thousands of years from spying on them.

Glacier was not only ashamed to know this, but also felt insulted that Gromeontunth thought so little of her and her Kingdom, she glanced down, thinking about all the times that the Icewings had acted aggressively towards the other kingdoms, and how different they used to be!

She wanted her Kingdom to be like the Snowwings once again, to be happy, cheerful and free of the stupid ranking system, yet knew she couldn't just change the Kingdom's name without trying to change the very structure of her Kingdom itself.

She then glanced up at Gromeontunth as she asked. "Is that what you think of Me? Me now, as Queen of the Icewings?" She felt as if hundreds of spikes had stabbed into her very heart, it pained her to know that others thought of her and her Kingdom as nothing but rude, bullish and uncaring Dragons. She closed her eyes, lowering her head as a single tear formed in the corner of her eye before falling down onto the table as she spoke up once more, her voice sounding pained and crackling.

"I have worked tirelessly at times, not sleeping for days making sure My Kingdom was perfectly balanced! I know that what we did in the past was unforgivable! But you must understand that what you've just said is... So far from the truth now! Surely you must see that, Just by looking at my fellow Queens, and how we all interact and work as one!" By now she was clenching her paws, her wings shook slightly while she struggled to hold herself together, she turned her head slightly to the right, taking in a deep breath, so as to calm herself down.

He seemed to pause, glancing downwards at the table for a few seconds before looking back up at Glacier. "I have always regarded Icewings as cold and heartless... Yet, after spending some time around you, seeing how you talk and interact with your fellow Queens and witnessing your strength and how all the other Queens look up to you for your guidance, and seem to trust you with their very lives as you have stated! I can see that maybe... Just maybe, the Icewings truly are changing, Perhaps it's because they have a ruler who has a true heart!" He said, his voice deep and guttural, breathing in before letting out a loud sigh of relief. "And dare I say it... I like you so very much Glacier, and perhaps you truly are the Queen of all Queens!"

Glacier raised her head in a quickened pace, letting out a shocked gasp as a few tears rolled down her cheeks. "But... I thought you said that You didn't like me or my Kin?" Despite being confused, shocked, and humbled by his brutal honesty, she admired it nonetheless.

In response, Gromeontunth raised his head slightly as he answered. "I speak as I find my dear!" He glanced down at the table once again, glancing over the three dimensional map of Pyrrhia that laid before him and Glacier before he spoke up. "The shadowwing leader was my Uncle, who after a disagreement with My father, who was the King before me, decided that the monarchy of the Drainwings was to be dismantled, and so after he absorbed the power of Dark Animus, collected a few followers, using the Dark Animus that now resided within him to spread the evil magic to his followers, allowing them to poison and control the minds of their victims, all the while my uncle's appearance changed, since the Dark Animus was having a negative physical effect on him as well as poisoning his mind further! Similar to how the animus dragons that have been born into your kingdoms have gone mad over time. He then sent his followers to each of the Kingdoms, turning them against My Kingdom, My Uncle then proceeded to slaughter My father and mother, as well as my father in law and mother in law, even killing my children and every Drainwing they laid their Evil eyes upon! I... lost everything that day!" He lowered his head while he remembered how a member of his own family had turned against his Kingdom.

Glacier listened to what Gromeontunth had to say, shifting her heavy wings about slightly as the few bits of jewellery she had on, a pair of ear rings along with a necklace, moved around slightly. Raising her head, she was about to ask something when Blaze came trotting into the room.

"Hey Glacier! Look what I have on!"

Glacier glanced over at Blaze, speaking out "Not now Bl- Hang on, what's that?" She questioned her Sandwing friend.

"OH, this, yeah, Isn't this ring just Fabulous! Beiphuth said I could wear it for a bit! It looks Amazing on Me, Don't you think so Glacier!" She giggled out, though when she looked at Glacier, noticed the Icewing Queen staring at her with wide eyes and a gaping mouth, a look of utter shock as Glacier then pointed at the ring that Blaze had on her index talon, snapping her head around at Gromeontunth, letting out a hiss. "Where on three moons did you get... that?!" She cried out.