Join Spyro, hero turned reluctant King of Warfang as he navigates his new responsibilities and fights to restore the dragon city of Warfang to greatness.
Spyro's Kingdom
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User Total AbZHz101 1 Freak A Nature 2 Kkutlord 1 ArgoTheSkywing 5 -
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Canon: Subconciousness of Fear
New
Kkutlord
Prince of Breath
- Location
- Indianapolis, Indiana
A/N: @Nianque not sure how this would affect things but figured there had to be a reason Fear Dragons didn't do much of anything throughout the Legend of Spyro trilogy. Also, Fear Dragons have a high rate of ending up insane, right?
Or are not allowed to. Of all dragons, two stand out the most. Purple Dragons could, in theory, access all the elements... but they are rare, they need but a few Elements to prove their power. Other than those rarities, barring unusual circumstances, a dragon could only access a single one. Fire, Ice, Electricity, Earth, Water, Wind, Shadow, Poison... and Fear.
Though they all share great potential, for both good & ill... those born to Fear are a threat to all around them. While Poison is especially suited to destroying bodies, those are far easier to repair than one's very soul. Indeed, of all Elements, Fear is the single one that is too dangerous to meddle with. Thus, those wyrmlings attuned to Fear's awe-inspiring might? Must never be allowed to cultivate such power.
All that lives knows Fear, yes, but is it no wicked thing. It warns of danger, keeping safe those who listen. Fear Dragons... they deceive the mind; convincing others danger is all around when it is not. The road to mastery would see all those around them broken, and for the good of all that lives? They must be broken instead.
Though some may fear Fear itself, it is all incredibly simple. The 'Nightmares' do not seek the harm & suffering of others, besides those who would dare to use Fear's power. If anything, without 'Nightmares' they would be in far worst straits. What manner of creature could have a deeper compassion than the 'Nightmares'?
The Great Dream is which all minds are linked, even though most know naught that truth. No matter what calamity may befall those on the other side, The Great Dream shall forever be protected. What more is there to say on such a subject? The only ones capable of proper interaction with them are the Fear Dragons... and they cannot be trusted.
Lord Screamsaver had long gotten used to how things are, making sure all was right. "They can't all be bad" was one of the most common questions he would be asked, and he would have to explain that 'Yes they all are.' Simply look at what the Dark Master alone could achieve, Fear's Power is not meant for dragonkind to wield.
Though even one such as he needed an occasional reminder of just what he & his 'Nightmares' fought for. There will always be fear, but there are right ways for it be expressed. Unfortunately, not all of his kin understood that simple truth. Fear Dragons are by far the greater threat, so such investigations were needed regardless.
All is as it should be... except, "What is that?" It is not an uncommon sight for newborn 'Nightmares' to explore and meddle with Dreams, it is such an uncomplicated matter his Court could easily handle such encounters. Yet, "This is something else." Fear Dragons are hard to miss when they are active, but... again, that could not be the answer.
Within the offending Dream, there's a small black 'dragon' with wings of blades and a curved horn as if a sword seeks to grow from his snout. The form is far from suspect, the fear responsible for our birth come mainly from Dragons. Nonetheless, he could not be a 'Nightmare', yet... "What else could he be?"
Mostly certainly not a Dragon, there would be far greater concerns if so. If he was neither though, what could he be? "I am Lord Screamsaver, explain yourself." That got the little one to turn around, blank white 'eyes' locking on Lord Screamsaver's visage. He did not seem aware what to do beyond that, strange indeed...
"This Dream needs naught a Nightmare's touch, come along now." The black bladed 'dragon' hesitantly approached, a newborn would instinctively understand. What a curious creature, it is not often something new & unknown reveals itself to Lord Screamsaver's awareness. The Not-Dragon would need careful consideration, yes.
----
A/N: I went into this, thinking "It'd be easy" only to realize "Oh right I hate Doing the Thing to Do the Thing." Obviously, I couldn't repost The Dreaming Defender & go Job Well Done. We're nowhere close to reintroducing the Elemental Guards, and I'm not sure how old they all would be.
All that really matters is that the Fear Elementals aka Nightmares are the sole reason Fear Dragons end up being insane nutjobs, because "Fear Dragons Bad!" Definitely not because Malefor didn't want anyone getting really good at using Fear without his permission. My explanation for why they're not harassing Cynder is because she was already completely crazy & Malefor doesn't need his minion being driven even more insane. Given everything she's been through, she just can't be broken again.
As for 'Blackout' definitely something of a Teacher/Apprentice thing going on eventually. One of the major leaders of the Nightmares has this weird Not-Nightmare creature and needs to be protected in the event anyone decides "That's obviously a Fear Dragon!" Certainly has nothing to do with Lord Screamsaver wanting to be more than one of the things that go bump in the night.
Subconscious of Fear
----
There are a great many things that fill this world, dragons are merely one of them. What makes dragons particularly special, however, is that they are one of the few able to channel the Elements through their own might & will. Mastering such a power is far from easy, but if done right then there is little they cannot do. Most, however, do not get that far. Perhaps they are simply content with they can do, maybe unable to for whatever reason...----
Or are not allowed to. Of all dragons, two stand out the most. Purple Dragons could, in theory, access all the elements... but they are rare, they need but a few Elements to prove their power. Other than those rarities, barring unusual circumstances, a dragon could only access a single one. Fire, Ice, Electricity, Earth, Water, Wind, Shadow, Poison... and Fear.
Though they all share great potential, for both good & ill... those born to Fear are a threat to all around them. While Poison is especially suited to destroying bodies, those are far easier to repair than one's very soul. Indeed, of all Elements, Fear is the single one that is too dangerous to meddle with. Thus, those wyrmlings attuned to Fear's awe-inspiring might? Must never be allowed to cultivate such power.
All that lives knows Fear, yes, but is it no wicked thing. It warns of danger, keeping safe those who listen. Fear Dragons... they deceive the mind; convincing others danger is all around when it is not. The road to mastery would see all those around them broken, and for the good of all that lives? They must be broken instead.
----
Fear's Might is not meant to be controlled & it is the duty of the Dark Stygian to ensure such. Those who walk in the light know very little of their kind, and their sacred mission. All they can do, is say the same thing: Nightmares. In their sleep, their fear tells them a story, a story to remind them of how the world is far from safe.
Though some may fear Fear itself, it is all incredibly simple. The 'Nightmares' do not seek the harm & suffering of others, besides those who would dare to use Fear's power. If anything, without 'Nightmares' they would be in far worst straits. What manner of creature could have a deeper compassion than the 'Nightmares'?
The Great Dream is which all minds are linked, even though most know naught that truth. No matter what calamity may befall those on the other side, The Great Dream shall forever be protected. What more is there to say on such a subject? The only ones capable of proper interaction with them are the Fear Dragons... and they cannot be trusted.
Lord Screamsaver had long gotten used to how things are, making sure all was right. "They can't all be bad" was one of the most common questions he would be asked, and he would have to explain that 'Yes they all are.' Simply look at what the Dark Master alone could achieve, Fear's Power is not meant for dragonkind to wield.
Though even one such as he needed an occasional reminder of just what he & his 'Nightmares' fought for. There will always be fear, but there are right ways for it be expressed. Unfortunately, not all of his kin understood that simple truth. Fear Dragons are by far the greater threat, so such investigations were needed regardless.
All is as it should be... except, "What is that?" It is not an uncommon sight for newborn 'Nightmares' to explore and meddle with Dreams, it is such an uncomplicated matter his Court could easily handle such encounters. Yet, "This is something else." Fear Dragons are hard to miss when they are active, but... again, that could not be the answer.
Within the offending Dream, there's a small black 'dragon' with wings of blades and a curved horn as if a sword seeks to grow from his snout. The form is far from suspect, the fear responsible for our birth come mainly from Dragons. Nonetheless, he could not be a 'Nightmare', yet... "What else could he be?"
Mostly certainly not a Dragon, there would be far greater concerns if so. If he was neither though, what could he be? "I am Lord Screamsaver, explain yourself." That got the little one to turn around, blank white 'eyes' locking on Lord Screamsaver's visage. He did not seem aware what to do beyond that, strange indeed...
"This Dream needs naught a Nightmare's touch, come along now." The black bladed 'dragon' hesitantly approached, a newborn would instinctively understand. What a curious creature, it is not often something new & unknown reveals itself to Lord Screamsaver's awareness. The Not-Dragon would need careful consideration, yes.
----
A/N: I went into this, thinking "It'd be easy" only to realize "Oh right I hate Doing the Thing to Do the Thing." Obviously, I couldn't repost The Dreaming Defender & go Job Well Done. We're nowhere close to reintroducing the Elemental Guards, and I'm not sure how old they all would be.
All that really matters is that the Fear Elementals aka Nightmares are the sole reason Fear Dragons end up being insane nutjobs, because "Fear Dragons Bad!" Definitely not because Malefor didn't want anyone getting really good at using Fear without his permission. My explanation for why they're not harassing Cynder is because she was already completely crazy & Malefor doesn't need his minion being driven even more insane. Given everything she's been through, she just can't be broken again.
As for 'Blackout' definitely something of a Teacher/Apprentice thing going on eventually. One of the major leaders of the Nightmares has this weird Not-Nightmare creature and needs to be protected in the event anyone decides "That's obviously a Fear Dragon!" Certainly has nothing to do with Lord Screamsaver wanting to be more than one of the things that go bump in the night.
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Canon: A Chance Encounter
New
[Omake: Chance Encounter Turned Discussion]
Spyro flapped his wings alongside Zephyr and Cynder, he had been meaning to look for the wind dragon, but almost as soon as the thought had passed he had noticed him flying, and Cynder had been wanting to do something mildly less stressful than recently, so he figured that flying and talking with the wind scion would work, she agreed, though did tell him she wouldn't be doing any fancy tricks, getting a chuckle and smiling agreement in response.
Zephyr had definitely not expected it that was for sure, if the slightly wide eyes at the sight of the two of them joining him was anything to go by, as for the more excited gaze he directed towards Cynder, to be expected from what he knew so far, plus Cynder was Cynder, and she wasn't concerned here so he didn't need to be.
"Hello there Zephyr, I was wondering if you'd be alright with us joining you for a flight? I have a few things I'd like to talk about with you, and Cynder has been needing some way to destress, and flying is always good for that."
The wind dragon just grinned in response before giving a nod. "Sure! It's nice flying with you again Cynder and I've heard great things about you as well. What did you want to talk about?" Cynder looked a bit put off there but recovered quickly and simply began to do some light glides and flaps to work her wings well.
Spyro hummed and looked over to Zephyr. "It's about House Avis, they're looking for you to join them. I'm not here to pressure you or anything, but to simply talk, personal request from the remains of the house itself."
Zephyr narrowed his eyes at first but that lessened as the purple dragon spoke further, before sighing and giving a motion to go ahead with one of his front claws. "Go ahead, I'm not promising anything, but I'll at least hear you out."
The purple smiled. "Wonderful, to be honest with you I planned to look for your brother first, but spotted you flying and figured I'd at least come up to talk, Cynder was nearby and came along. For starters, I'm sure the house had already told you about how much they'd be able to aid you in your training and such, and while I will say that having proper tutors helps tremendously, personal experience there, I also understand you're a dragon who doesn't like to be restrained and forced to stay in one place, am I correct?"
Zephyr huffed, the breath only serving to make his wings flap harder. "That sounds right. You must know that I have already given them my answer, so what makes you think you can change my mind?"
"Simple, to give my own perspective on it, Cynder might even give a little input at some point, but don't count on it, she's mainly here to relax. But back to the point, house Avis isn't looking to restrain you, make you more inclined to assist and aid them, sure. But they aren't looking to force you to follow a set schedule or impede how you usually do what you do. They're looking for a more symbiotic relationship with you. Honestly, I have a variety of ways I could argue why that'd be good for you, your brother and your friend, but simply put, I would liken it to how me and Cynder get along to be honest with you. We work with each other, overcome obstacles in our path and continue on, we learn from each other, teaching the other better ways to handle certain situations. We fight together, watching each other's back and making sure that the other stays safe, it's not one helping the other out exclusively, it's both of us working together to make sure that the other is always at their best, even when it feels like the whole world is trying to get in the way." The purple took a breath there, taking a quick break in his talking, but before he could continue, another voice spoke up, coming from the upside down dragoness flying above them.
"Much as I'd love to bust in here and talk about not letting others chain you down, trust me, it sucks, a lot, but Spyro's not really wrong there. We do all of that and more for each other, and from what little he told me on the way up, House Avis seems to honestly want just that with you. Simply put they're desperate, they are rushing to try and get you into the clan, and not because they're a wind clan and you're the monstrosity for wind that you are. They are savaged, there are 3 members of the House left, and they got that way by doing just what you were doing, being messengers for Warfang and its allies during the war. They put everything they had into it, and they lost so much. I'm not trying to gain pity for them, I'm responsible for most of it, or at least, that me under Malefor's shackle was, but I can tell you this. They are probably the only noble house in this entire city that will upfront tell you everything you are signing up for, they will lay out every single detail and every single note for you to look at. And then, they will work with you and change it, even if it hurts them at the moment. That's how desperate they are for you to accept. That's not people looking to enslave you, that's people looking to work with you, to help you, no strings attached, as crazy as it sounds."
Before she got back to relaxing, she gave him a quick grin. "Oh, and Zephyr, much as I don't like what happened back then, you managing to actually get away is a good memory, it was a fun chase too." She flapped her wings and got back to diving and climbing, continuing to simply work her wings.
Spyro gave a smile as the wind dragon beamed at the end there, it was nice to see after the contemplative listening he'd been doing while he and Cyn talked, though the wind dragon did go to just a small grin as he looked over to Spyro, thinking for a moment before speaking. "While that puts a new spin on things, there is one thing I already knew. House Avis. My mentor, a lot of friends, a lot of them didn't make it. I know they're good, that they suffered, and I can see why they want me so bad. You know I value my freedom above most everything else, and while what you said sounds promising, how far are they willing to go for me though? You compared it to you and Cynder, but how far does it really go"?
Spyro paused for a moment there, getting his meaning with a light grimace, before looking over to Cynder, who had heard while resetting for another dive, before she gave a nod and a smile and got back to it. Spyro watched with, sighing before looking back over to Zephyr.
"Alright, but it's a good bit, so please don't interrupt till I'm done. When it comes to the lengths I've gone to for her, and her for me, there's so much. We've chased, ran, saved, fought, killed and nearly died for each other. We've given up food so the other could eat more soundly, we've faked watches so the other could sleep more, there's so much that it's really impossible to cover it all. But I'll simply put it this way, I have chased Cynder across the world to make sure she's okay, and she stayed with me when I put the planet back together. I nearly died who knows how many times, and Cynder very well could have died if I made a single mistake, but neither of us did, and neither of us asked for the other to do what we did."
Spyro did smile however, giving a light chuckle as he looked at the wind dragon. "I don't regret any of it, and I know she doesn't either, both of us would do it again in an instant if the other was in danger, and we'd do it happily. That's what the House Avis wants with you. A relationship built on trust where the both of you are willing to give it your all for the other. In your case, that'd mean becoming the best wind elemental dragon to ever live, or at least put in the effort. For them, it's training you, giving you every single ounce of effort they can to assist you on that journey. And for both sides, that means protecting the other when it's in danger."
Spyro finished, looking over to the wind dragon, who was staring at him. After a moment he broke it before taking a few minutes to think, the 3 of them just flying in peace as he did so before he spoke up. "It sounds like the two of you are willing to die for each other. House Avis claims that they want to put such trust in me, offering everything. And the price is that I just do everything I'm already doing, but help them out a little?"
Spyro smiled and nodded, looking over at Cynder before back to Zephyr and giving him a happy grin. "That's what they're willing to do Zephyr, so the question now is, do you accept? I'm not pushing you to answer now, but at least think about it. You know where to find both me and them if you want to discuss it further."
Spyro flapped his wings alongside Zephyr and Cynder, he had been meaning to look for the wind dragon, but almost as soon as the thought had passed he had noticed him flying, and Cynder had been wanting to do something mildly less stressful than recently, so he figured that flying and talking with the wind scion would work, she agreed, though did tell him she wouldn't be doing any fancy tricks, getting a chuckle and smiling agreement in response.
Zephyr had definitely not expected it that was for sure, if the slightly wide eyes at the sight of the two of them joining him was anything to go by, as for the more excited gaze he directed towards Cynder, to be expected from what he knew so far, plus Cynder was Cynder, and she wasn't concerned here so he didn't need to be.
"Hello there Zephyr, I was wondering if you'd be alright with us joining you for a flight? I have a few things I'd like to talk about with you, and Cynder has been needing some way to destress, and flying is always good for that."
The wind dragon just grinned in response before giving a nod. "Sure! It's nice flying with you again Cynder and I've heard great things about you as well. What did you want to talk about?" Cynder looked a bit put off there but recovered quickly and simply began to do some light glides and flaps to work her wings well.
Spyro hummed and looked over to Zephyr. "It's about House Avis, they're looking for you to join them. I'm not here to pressure you or anything, but to simply talk, personal request from the remains of the house itself."
Zephyr narrowed his eyes at first but that lessened as the purple dragon spoke further, before sighing and giving a motion to go ahead with one of his front claws. "Go ahead, I'm not promising anything, but I'll at least hear you out."
The purple smiled. "Wonderful, to be honest with you I planned to look for your brother first, but spotted you flying and figured I'd at least come up to talk, Cynder was nearby and came along. For starters, I'm sure the house had already told you about how much they'd be able to aid you in your training and such, and while I will say that having proper tutors helps tremendously, personal experience there, I also understand you're a dragon who doesn't like to be restrained and forced to stay in one place, am I correct?"
Zephyr huffed, the breath only serving to make his wings flap harder. "That sounds right. You must know that I have already given them my answer, so what makes you think you can change my mind?"
"Simple, to give my own perspective on it, Cynder might even give a little input at some point, but don't count on it, she's mainly here to relax. But back to the point, house Avis isn't looking to restrain you, make you more inclined to assist and aid them, sure. But they aren't looking to force you to follow a set schedule or impede how you usually do what you do. They're looking for a more symbiotic relationship with you. Honestly, I have a variety of ways I could argue why that'd be good for you, your brother and your friend, but simply put, I would liken it to how me and Cynder get along to be honest with you. We work with each other, overcome obstacles in our path and continue on, we learn from each other, teaching the other better ways to handle certain situations. We fight together, watching each other's back and making sure that the other stays safe, it's not one helping the other out exclusively, it's both of us working together to make sure that the other is always at their best, even when it feels like the whole world is trying to get in the way." The purple took a breath there, taking a quick break in his talking, but before he could continue, another voice spoke up, coming from the upside down dragoness flying above them.
"Much as I'd love to bust in here and talk about not letting others chain you down, trust me, it sucks, a lot, but Spyro's not really wrong there. We do all of that and more for each other, and from what little he told me on the way up, House Avis seems to honestly want just that with you. Simply put they're desperate, they are rushing to try and get you into the clan, and not because they're a wind clan and you're the monstrosity for wind that you are. They are savaged, there are 3 members of the House left, and they got that way by doing just what you were doing, being messengers for Warfang and its allies during the war. They put everything they had into it, and they lost so much. I'm not trying to gain pity for them, I'm responsible for most of it, or at least, that me under Malefor's shackle was, but I can tell you this. They are probably the only noble house in this entire city that will upfront tell you everything you are signing up for, they will lay out every single detail and every single note for you to look at. And then, they will work with you and change it, even if it hurts them at the moment. That's how desperate they are for you to accept. That's not people looking to enslave you, that's people looking to work with you, to help you, no strings attached, as crazy as it sounds."
Before she got back to relaxing, she gave him a quick grin. "Oh, and Zephyr, much as I don't like what happened back then, you managing to actually get away is a good memory, it was a fun chase too." She flapped her wings and got back to diving and climbing, continuing to simply work her wings.
Spyro gave a smile as the wind dragon beamed at the end there, it was nice to see after the contemplative listening he'd been doing while he and Cyn talked, though the wind dragon did go to just a small grin as he looked over to Spyro, thinking for a moment before speaking. "While that puts a new spin on things, there is one thing I already knew. House Avis. My mentor, a lot of friends, a lot of them didn't make it. I know they're good, that they suffered, and I can see why they want me so bad. You know I value my freedom above most everything else, and while what you said sounds promising, how far are they willing to go for me though? You compared it to you and Cynder, but how far does it really go"?
Spyro paused for a moment there, getting his meaning with a light grimace, before looking over to Cynder, who had heard while resetting for another dive, before she gave a nod and a smile and got back to it. Spyro watched with, sighing before looking back over to Zephyr.
"Alright, but it's a good bit, so please don't interrupt till I'm done. When it comes to the lengths I've gone to for her, and her for me, there's so much. We've chased, ran, saved, fought, killed and nearly died for each other. We've given up food so the other could eat more soundly, we've faked watches so the other could sleep more, there's so much that it's really impossible to cover it all. But I'll simply put it this way, I have chased Cynder across the world to make sure she's okay, and she stayed with me when I put the planet back together. I nearly died who knows how many times, and Cynder very well could have died if I made a single mistake, but neither of us did, and neither of us asked for the other to do what we did."
Spyro did smile however, giving a light chuckle as he looked at the wind dragon. "I don't regret any of it, and I know she doesn't either, both of us would do it again in an instant if the other was in danger, and we'd do it happily. That's what the House Avis wants with you. A relationship built on trust where the both of you are willing to give it your all for the other. In your case, that'd mean becoming the best wind elemental dragon to ever live, or at least put in the effort. For them, it's training you, giving you every single ounce of effort they can to assist you on that journey. And for both sides, that means protecting the other when it's in danger."
Spyro finished, looking over to the wind dragon, who was staring at him. After a moment he broke it before taking a few minutes to think, the 3 of them just flying in peace as he did so before he spoke up. "It sounds like the two of you are willing to die for each other. House Avis claims that they want to put such trust in me, offering everything. And the price is that I just do everything I'm already doing, but help them out a little?"
Spyro smiled and nodded, looking over at Cynder before back to Zephyr and giving him a happy grin. "That's what they're willing to do Zephyr, so the question now is, do you accept? I'm not pushing you to answer now, but at least think about it. You know where to find both me and them if you want to discuss it further."
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Canon: Beneath the Earth
New
- Location
- Florida
Omake: Beneath the Earth
The scrawling of ink upon paper echoed across the dark chamber, the user of the pen etching a map of the environment he had explored thus far in these depths. The ruins of Warfang stretched into an abyss around him, hiding unseen amounts of the former city.. it was only appropriate that this dragon was adept in the darkness. Dusk of House Calas had taken upon himself to survey the underground while the rebuilding of Warfang ensued above. As a Shadow Dragon he was still ostracized by many of the dragons above just for his element, leaving the darkness as the best place for him while many debated on what course the future would take. Putting his tools away and shifting his armor Dusk stood up, well aware that he had merely begun his task. A full exploration of this place would take months and many more individuals assisting with the task to make more then a dent in the vast ruins. For now Dusk was content to spread his wings and fly off to a lower platform, his black scales blending well into the background even without fully stepping into the shadow. This endeavor was far easier than his duties in the years before, the great war that raged across the land and nearly broke everything. Dusk lended his aid whenever he was able even despite the scorn he faced for what his mere existence implied. Sabotage and reconnaissance were his trade, always in demand to slow the apes great war machine.. even as the cost they drew grew ever greater. Dusk's own cost of the war was a family he never knew.. records lost in favor of survival as the war dragged on. Cynder arrival and turning the tide forced Dusk to reduce his actions.. lest he drew the ire of the Terror of the Skies. Knowing now of Cynder came to be he couldn't draw much hatred towards the dragon.. she was a victim of Malefor herself..
His flight was brief as he landed in silence, listening for any movement nearby. The outcropping was parts of a former building, its purpose unknown to Dusk with a doorway leading further inside.A few brief moments passed before Dusk heard a chattering that drew a silent curse and he withdrew into shadow. The source of the noise revealed itself to be a pack of skeletal apes passing through the door.. the only remaining traces of the species that had long hunted the dragons.. Their undead state was the "reward" for serving the Dark Master unfaithfully, now forever cursed to roam in the dark corners of the world even after their masters death. They haunted the underground here and it was yet another group that Dusk had encountered in these depths. Even in undead shadowy shapes the apes had not learned the benefits of stealth and silence.. leaving them prey to the experienced scout. They did not last long against Dusks rampage, claws unleashed and slashing through the skulls of the first that passed by his hiding spot. The rest fell before his tail slashing through the remaining bones the undead creatures possessed.. the remnants fading into nothing in the aftermath of the ambush. Hearing nothing else Dusk moved into where the apes had come from, revealing a room that was relatively intact. His eyes were drawn to a centerpiece hung along the back wall, something that drew a snarl from the black dragon.
Above Dusk hung a tapestry of an age long past that was worn from the passage of time. A purple dragon overseeing a gathering of all the races gazing up at upon it in awe. A relic from the time Malefor was thought to be the ages hero. In the present time that turned out to quite the irony, and yet now another purple dragon sat upon the throne of Warfang. Spyro was still young, a hero in his own right with reconstructing the world... but with wars end still brought the older dangers of politics. The Shadow Dragon paused in front of this image, pondering just what could have caused such a shift in circumstances.
"They worshipped you didn't they? Taught you everything you wished, and you created even more for others to utilize. A hero of your time in your own right. Could of had everything.. yet you decided to burn the world. What brought you to that? Forsaking everything to become the Dark Master.. destroyer of your own kind. Didn't work out in the end did it? Now we have to recover from everything you unleashed." Dusk muttered to himself, anger seething underneath his exterior before he took action against the offending imagery.
It was a simple matter to pry the tapestry from its wall mounting, it easily giving way between its age and the dragons strength. With a last sternful glare at Malefors image before he drew breath Dusk unleashed his element. Flames cloaked in pitch black torched the image, purging the picture from existence and returning it to the abyss. Unlike the proper flames of the Fire Element these gave off no light, letting a piece of history fade away into nothing. Dusk doubted that anyone would even begrudge him for this small indulgence, if anyone even learned of it at all. This left the room to himself, and has Dusk calmed he found it to his liking.. he would need to draw bedding down to make it comfortable. Yet he felt this area suited him just fine, quiet away from the bustle and far enough away from the crowds that glaring eyes would not fall upon him. It was still relatively close to the entrance he had used to gain delve into the ruins of Warfang so he would not be far from society. His thoughts drifted to the events above, and the new purple dragon that would dominate the age..
"I hope you'll be better then the last Spyro.. Maybe you'll even find it in you to help us.. "
The scrawling of ink upon paper echoed across the dark chamber, the user of the pen etching a map of the environment he had explored thus far in these depths. The ruins of Warfang stretched into an abyss around him, hiding unseen amounts of the former city.. it was only appropriate that this dragon was adept in the darkness. Dusk of House Calas had taken upon himself to survey the underground while the rebuilding of Warfang ensued above. As a Shadow Dragon he was still ostracized by many of the dragons above just for his element, leaving the darkness as the best place for him while many debated on what course the future would take. Putting his tools away and shifting his armor Dusk stood up, well aware that he had merely begun his task. A full exploration of this place would take months and many more individuals assisting with the task to make more then a dent in the vast ruins. For now Dusk was content to spread his wings and fly off to a lower platform, his black scales blending well into the background even without fully stepping into the shadow. This endeavor was far easier than his duties in the years before, the great war that raged across the land and nearly broke everything. Dusk lended his aid whenever he was able even despite the scorn he faced for what his mere existence implied. Sabotage and reconnaissance were his trade, always in demand to slow the apes great war machine.. even as the cost they drew grew ever greater. Dusk's own cost of the war was a family he never knew.. records lost in favor of survival as the war dragged on. Cynder arrival and turning the tide forced Dusk to reduce his actions.. lest he drew the ire of the Terror of the Skies. Knowing now of Cynder came to be he couldn't draw much hatred towards the dragon.. she was a victim of Malefor herself..
His flight was brief as he landed in silence, listening for any movement nearby. The outcropping was parts of a former building, its purpose unknown to Dusk with a doorway leading further inside.A few brief moments passed before Dusk heard a chattering that drew a silent curse and he withdrew into shadow. The source of the noise revealed itself to be a pack of skeletal apes passing through the door.. the only remaining traces of the species that had long hunted the dragons.. Their undead state was the "reward" for serving the Dark Master unfaithfully, now forever cursed to roam in the dark corners of the world even after their masters death. They haunted the underground here and it was yet another group that Dusk had encountered in these depths. Even in undead shadowy shapes the apes had not learned the benefits of stealth and silence.. leaving them prey to the experienced scout. They did not last long against Dusks rampage, claws unleashed and slashing through the skulls of the first that passed by his hiding spot. The rest fell before his tail slashing through the remaining bones the undead creatures possessed.. the remnants fading into nothing in the aftermath of the ambush. Hearing nothing else Dusk moved into where the apes had come from, revealing a room that was relatively intact. His eyes were drawn to a centerpiece hung along the back wall, something that drew a snarl from the black dragon.
Above Dusk hung a tapestry of an age long past that was worn from the passage of time. A purple dragon overseeing a gathering of all the races gazing up at upon it in awe. A relic from the time Malefor was thought to be the ages hero. In the present time that turned out to quite the irony, and yet now another purple dragon sat upon the throne of Warfang. Spyro was still young, a hero in his own right with reconstructing the world... but with wars end still brought the older dangers of politics. The Shadow Dragon paused in front of this image, pondering just what could have caused such a shift in circumstances.
"They worshipped you didn't they? Taught you everything you wished, and you created even more for others to utilize. A hero of your time in your own right. Could of had everything.. yet you decided to burn the world. What brought you to that? Forsaking everything to become the Dark Master.. destroyer of your own kind. Didn't work out in the end did it? Now we have to recover from everything you unleashed." Dusk muttered to himself, anger seething underneath his exterior before he took action against the offending imagery.
It was a simple matter to pry the tapestry from its wall mounting, it easily giving way between its age and the dragons strength. With a last sternful glare at Malefors image before he drew breath Dusk unleashed his element. Flames cloaked in pitch black torched the image, purging the picture from existence and returning it to the abyss. Unlike the proper flames of the Fire Element these gave off no light, letting a piece of history fade away into nothing. Dusk doubted that anyone would even begrudge him for this small indulgence, if anyone even learned of it at all. This left the room to himself, and has Dusk calmed he found it to his liking.. he would need to draw bedding down to make it comfortable. Yet he felt this area suited him just fine, quiet away from the bustle and far enough away from the crowds that glaring eyes would not fall upon him. It was still relatively close to the entrance he had used to gain delve into the ruins of Warfang so he would not be far from society. His thoughts drifted to the events above, and the new purple dragon that would dominate the age..
"I hope you'll be better then the last Spyro.. Maybe you'll even find it in you to help us.. "
Canon: Zephyr Does a Think
New
[Omake: Zephyr Does a Think]
Zephyr hummed to himself, flying through the air above Warfang and beyond. The wind sang as he cut through it, the wonder of flight accompanying him as he thought back on the conversation he'd had not even 10 minutes ago.
For starters, and most importantly, Cynder had said the chase was great! Oh that was a good memory to have, the greatest flight of his life and it was a good memory for her too! Oh that was going to be fun to tell Flare and Nef. But back to the bori-no not boring anymore he supposed, the new perspective definitely put a new light on things.
It was definitely a lot, the example Spyro had given, an interesting dragon, he knew how to explain things in a way that kept attention that was for sure. But yes, the example, if what all he said was true, and he doubted it wasn't, then maybe he'd been a bit wrong about what Avis wanted from all their hints?
He was still wary of course, but Spyro gave it to him straight, Avis wanted a cooperative arrangement there, not a dominating one. It was surprising, but also kinda…not? His mentor had always been a bit more lax than the average, maybe it was just a wind dragon thing? Huh, that might be the case, in which he might actually have to give this more thought, of course he'd have to talk this over with Flare and Nef, they always tended to catch the sneakier details in stuff better.
…Wait a minute, wouldn't he be able to help out more in that case? His brother had always done more when they were younger. While his flying definitely caught eyes and probably made it easier for some people to find the two of them, some of which he knew Flare made deals with, it wasn't anything concrete.
Maybe, maybe this was a chance to, not pay it back, the two were too close for there to be any debt between them, Nef too, but a gift? Gifts were nice, maybe he'd be able to get something nice for those two, more than just something, multiple something's, stuff to make life easier and more enjoyable than living closer to the bottom of the barrel bottom than was comfortable.
Yeah, that could work, assuming he took the deal at least, he'd still have to think on that, but it was definitely looking a bit more appealing now.
Zephyr hummed to himself, flying through the air above Warfang and beyond. The wind sang as he cut through it, the wonder of flight accompanying him as he thought back on the conversation he'd had not even 10 minutes ago.
For starters, and most importantly, Cynder had said the chase was great! Oh that was a good memory to have, the greatest flight of his life and it was a good memory for her too! Oh that was going to be fun to tell Flare and Nef. But back to the bori-no not boring anymore he supposed, the new perspective definitely put a new light on things.
It was definitely a lot, the example Spyro had given, an interesting dragon, he knew how to explain things in a way that kept attention that was for sure. But yes, the example, if what all he said was true, and he doubted it wasn't, then maybe he'd been a bit wrong about what Avis wanted from all their hints?
He was still wary of course, but Spyro gave it to him straight, Avis wanted a cooperative arrangement there, not a dominating one. It was surprising, but also kinda…not? His mentor had always been a bit more lax than the average, maybe it was just a wind dragon thing? Huh, that might be the case, in which he might actually have to give this more thought, of course he'd have to talk this over with Flare and Nef, they always tended to catch the sneakier details in stuff better.
…Wait a minute, wouldn't he be able to help out more in that case? His brother had always done more when they were younger. While his flying definitely caught eyes and probably made it easier for some people to find the two of them, some of which he knew Flare made deals with, it wasn't anything concrete.
Maybe, maybe this was a chance to, not pay it back, the two were too close for there to be any debt between them, Nef too, but a gift? Gifts were nice, maybe he'd be able to get something nice for those two, more than just something, multiple something's, stuff to make life easier and more enjoyable than living closer to the bottom of the barrel bottom than was comfortable.
Yeah, that could work, assuming he took the deal at least, he'd still have to think on that, but it was definitely looking a bit more appealing now.
Canon: Chlly Discussions
New
- Pronouns
- Exist
[Omake: Chilly Discussions]
Purina sighed as she dug into the last of her meal. Her stomach was still demanding more, but compared to the last few days underground... This was practically a feast! She knew that intellectually... But it was still hard. Especially since she had been tapped to pull water for the city today. It was... Effort in a way she was unused to.
But it was also so much better than down in the tunnels. During the last few days, there had been debates among the House and those of Ice and Water who might have to pull water, how much... And how long it would be sustainable. Those had not been happy conversations.
But now... Things weren't great, but they rising with the thermals.
The topic of conversation was also far lighter lately. That was good.
"I must say, cousin," Flurris said, "It is quite remarkable what you were able to do with the young king in the short time you had to work with. He managed to acquit himself quite well for his first time."
"May I ask what the discussions entailed?" Cyril asked with a tentative smile.
"He was quite insistent that all the houses be represented and that the Darker Elemental Dragons receive our support. And not merely a tacit non-disagreement either. Though with how he was also unbending on accepting Cynder's crimes were due to Malefor than herself... Perhaps not so surprising. He had to give up things he was looking for for that I think," the Representative of their House mused, her gaze turning back to earlier in the day.
"I have met Cynder both before and after Spyro purged the corruption from her, and I can tell you true, the blame belongs not on that girl," Great-Uncle Cyril replied.
"I see... It rather is a shame that he's so set on her, though perhaps... If anyone were to be able to take two mates it would be a Purple," one of Purina's Aunts said while giving Purina herself a more than casual glance. Purina herself most certainly did not flush red at the attention or the implication.
"Do not," Great-Uncle Cyril growled. "The boy is too young for such things."
"16 is not too young to be thinking of mating."
"But 13 is," the Gaurdian of Ice replied, the temperature sliding down slightly. "Until he arrived at Warfang, he and Cynder both had been encased in Crystal, asleep. How he managed to do so, and how his body grew during that time I do not know, but he missed 3 years of his life. Do not place him upon a normal timescale. Besides, he has yet to grieve."
No one said anything for a moment, their minds recalling the Dragon of Fire that had flown off with the two Saviors of the World and not returned.
"I will keep such things in mind," the chastised Ice dragon replied.
"See you do," as the temperature began to rise as warm air began to circulate again.
"He did notice that our demands on that front were easily acceptable," Flurris continued. "Requiring that one in three Guardians be of Noble decent is nothing." Purina had to agree. Most of the time it was notable if one of the Pillars was of Common Descent. "And accepting one of House Novis as an advisor simply saves everyone time. We have all seen how you all have been running yourselves ragged. He was quite reluctant to hand over the duties of the Houses specialties over to them... Nor did he wish to settle the matter of education in Warfang. Though... That seemed to be a matter of our wording I think. He seemed considering until the word 'only' was used. That seemed to be the sticking point as he was willing to let House Farad do what they will." Oh... Purina silently started to calculate how far they were from Farad's current residences, decided it was too close and began to mentally review how to make and reinforce ice walls. "He recognized our claim to the Freezer, and was even willing to speak on Avis's behalf to that Wind Dragon they've been courting."
Flurris sighed, her head turning away for a moment. "Really, I'm a bit surprised that he didn't agree to some of our other gift terms. The Officers in the war against... Well, they were all of the Nobility for a reason. But I suppose it was that 'only' word again. And I was quite surprised at how vehement he was that Warfang be a city for all the species in its walls."
Purina heard Cyril gasp in a manner like a dying fish. "Cousin... What did you ask him to do?"
Everyone seemed to be openly staring at the moment, but Auntie was tactful in her response. "At some point it was brought up that as a city founded for dragonkind, it was only reasonable to acknowledge it as such. But his response was so visceral... And none could understand why."
"Who." A blizzard hissed from Great-Uncle's maw.
Auntie Flurris tossed a small glance about the room before saying, "I seem to have difficulty recalling." Not here.
"Then I pray that whomever gave such an insult to a man he or she just met recognizes their error and gives proper contrition."
Father was giving her a glance. Ah. This. "What Insult?" she asked, interjecting into the conversation for the first time. A slight breach of etiquette, but she had the excuse of youth enough to ask, when it seemed that there was quite a crucial piece of information they had missed about their new King.
Great-Uncle Cyril stared her down, then his eyes glanced to the rest of the House before he composed himself. "You are aware of the Dragonfly who has been at his side constantly since his return?"
"The yellow one who you and the other Guardians allowed to stay with you when we were in the tunnels beneath the city?" she confirmed. "I am aware, but didn't put much thought into him."
"He is Spyro's brother," Great-Uncle Cyril stated. "The blood-son of the two Dragonflies that took Spyro in as a babe and raised him as their own." His gaze turned to Flurris, hard and sharp and fragile. "On the day you met him... One of the Houses demanded that their new Monarch decry the Clan and Kin who took him in when he had nothing. And at best, the rest of you sat back and watched it happen! What Injury had he dealt that merited such?! Had I thought any of you capable of that kind of casual cruelty I would have ensured that he know what the limits of his 'acceptable' responses could be."
Acceptable responses? Oh... Oh no.
"Cyril!"
"My Position Demands it of me!" he snarled right back. "As does my friendship with Ignitus. That boy looked to him first of all of us, and before we even have had a funeral, I find out that there are those willing to take advantage of his lack of knowledge! The knowledge that only I could have given him. I CANNOT, WILL NOT allow it to happen again!"
"I have erred," Flurris said with head bowed.
Great-Uncle stood there, chest heaving for a long moment. "It is not me who deserves the first apology."
"No... It is not."
Purina sighed as she dug into the last of her meal. Her stomach was still demanding more, but compared to the last few days underground... This was practically a feast! She knew that intellectually... But it was still hard. Especially since she had been tapped to pull water for the city today. It was... Effort in a way she was unused to.
But it was also so much better than down in the tunnels. During the last few days, there had been debates among the House and those of Ice and Water who might have to pull water, how much... And how long it would be sustainable. Those had not been happy conversations.
But now... Things weren't great, but they rising with the thermals.
The topic of conversation was also far lighter lately. That was good.
"I must say, cousin," Flurris said, "It is quite remarkable what you were able to do with the young king in the short time you had to work with. He managed to acquit himself quite well for his first time."
"May I ask what the discussions entailed?" Cyril asked with a tentative smile.
"He was quite insistent that all the houses be represented and that the Darker Elemental Dragons receive our support. And not merely a tacit non-disagreement either. Though with how he was also unbending on accepting Cynder's crimes were due to Malefor than herself... Perhaps not so surprising. He had to give up things he was looking for for that I think," the Representative of their House mused, her gaze turning back to earlier in the day.
"I have met Cynder both before and after Spyro purged the corruption from her, and I can tell you true, the blame belongs not on that girl," Great-Uncle Cyril replied.
"I see... It rather is a shame that he's so set on her, though perhaps... If anyone were to be able to take two mates it would be a Purple," one of Purina's Aunts said while giving Purina herself a more than casual glance. Purina herself most certainly did not flush red at the attention or the implication.
"Do not," Great-Uncle Cyril growled. "The boy is too young for such things."
"16 is not too young to be thinking of mating."
"But 13 is," the Gaurdian of Ice replied, the temperature sliding down slightly. "Until he arrived at Warfang, he and Cynder both had been encased in Crystal, asleep. How he managed to do so, and how his body grew during that time I do not know, but he missed 3 years of his life. Do not place him upon a normal timescale. Besides, he has yet to grieve."
No one said anything for a moment, their minds recalling the Dragon of Fire that had flown off with the two Saviors of the World and not returned.
"I will keep such things in mind," the chastised Ice dragon replied.
"See you do," as the temperature began to rise as warm air began to circulate again.
"He did notice that our demands on that front were easily acceptable," Flurris continued. "Requiring that one in three Guardians be of Noble decent is nothing." Purina had to agree. Most of the time it was notable if one of the Pillars was of Common Descent. "And accepting one of House Novis as an advisor simply saves everyone time. We have all seen how you all have been running yourselves ragged. He was quite reluctant to hand over the duties of the Houses specialties over to them... Nor did he wish to settle the matter of education in Warfang. Though... That seemed to be a matter of our wording I think. He seemed considering until the word 'only' was used. That seemed to be the sticking point as he was willing to let House Farad do what they will." Oh... Purina silently started to calculate how far they were from Farad's current residences, decided it was too close and began to mentally review how to make and reinforce ice walls. "He recognized our claim to the Freezer, and was even willing to speak on Avis's behalf to that Wind Dragon they've been courting."
Flurris sighed, her head turning away for a moment. "Really, I'm a bit surprised that he didn't agree to some of our other gift terms. The Officers in the war against... Well, they were all of the Nobility for a reason. But I suppose it was that 'only' word again. And I was quite surprised at how vehement he was that Warfang be a city for all the species in its walls."
Purina heard Cyril gasp in a manner like a dying fish. "Cousin... What did you ask him to do?"
Everyone seemed to be openly staring at the moment, but Auntie was tactful in her response. "At some point it was brought up that as a city founded for dragonkind, it was only reasonable to acknowledge it as such. But his response was so visceral... And none could understand why."
"Who." A blizzard hissed from Great-Uncle's maw.
Auntie Flurris tossed a small glance about the room before saying, "I seem to have difficulty recalling." Not here.
"Then I pray that whomever gave such an insult to a man he or she just met recognizes their error and gives proper contrition."
Father was giving her a glance. Ah. This. "What Insult?" she asked, interjecting into the conversation for the first time. A slight breach of etiquette, but she had the excuse of youth enough to ask, when it seemed that there was quite a crucial piece of information they had missed about their new King.
Great-Uncle Cyril stared her down, then his eyes glanced to the rest of the House before he composed himself. "You are aware of the Dragonfly who has been at his side constantly since his return?"
"The yellow one who you and the other Guardians allowed to stay with you when we were in the tunnels beneath the city?" she confirmed. "I am aware, but didn't put much thought into him."
"He is Spyro's brother," Great-Uncle Cyril stated. "The blood-son of the two Dragonflies that took Spyro in as a babe and raised him as their own." His gaze turned to Flurris, hard and sharp and fragile. "On the day you met him... One of the Houses demanded that their new Monarch decry the Clan and Kin who took him in when he had nothing. And at best, the rest of you sat back and watched it happen! What Injury had he dealt that merited such?! Had I thought any of you capable of that kind of casual cruelty I would have ensured that he know what the limits of his 'acceptable' responses could be."
Acceptable responses? Oh... Oh no.
"Cyril!"
"My Position Demands it of me!" he snarled right back. "As does my friendship with Ignitus. That boy looked to him first of all of us, and before we even have had a funeral, I find out that there are those willing to take advantage of his lack of knowledge! The knowledge that only I could have given him. I CANNOT, WILL NOT allow it to happen again!"
"I have erred," Flurris said with head bowed.
Great-Uncle stood there, chest heaving for a long moment. "It is not me who deserves the first apology."
"No... It is not."
Canon: Shadowy Encounters
New
- Location
- Florida
Omake: Shadowy Encounters
Today had been quite the eventful day for Nefaris, first he had introduced himself and his fellow street-rats to the now King Spyro. Following that talk and the latest attempt by Avis to recruit Zephyr he had looked forward to some rest. Now someone had almost emerged into their hideout from the undercity. This circumstance was a far bit more then concerning then the last, his ability to deter anyone from following the tunnel via his shadow element had met.. resistance before it suddenly retreated. He knew this meant that another Shadow Dragon had tried to push through, drawing his attention lest the hideout be compromised. For their safety he elected to discreetly try and find out who exactly had almost stumbled upon them. He now found himself pushing to the underground through the shadows, fortunately there was only one path this unknown dragon could follow downwards.
Amid the narrowing passageway was a piece of paper seemingly dropped by Nefaris quarry; the page blank on the side that the dragon could discern. Pausing Nefaris could discern no sound further down the pathway and this area was too narrow for there to be anywhere to hide.. for a non-shadow dragon at least. The fact the paper had been left behind indicated that whoever had approached the hideout had gone corporeal once more.. so Nefaris slipped out of the shadows to investigate the scene. Flipping the parchment over revealed a decent scrawling that Nefaris recognized as a map, one that showed some of the nearby layout of the Undercity.
"So theres my kindred.." came a voice that brought Nefaris raising his head in alarm towards the ceiling. Above him and manifesting from shadow behind a cluster of narrow stalactites was another Shadow Dragon. Realizing the scroll had been left as bait Nefaris sighed to himself at being outplayed by one of the oldest tricks, at least consoling himself by examining his fellow Shadow as he dropped from the ceiling in front of him. As Shadow dragons went this one was fairly typical, obsidian black scales coloring his body. What differed was the armor he was wearing, a wrap-around helmet and bracers mounted on his front legs noticeably colored black to blend into the wearers body. The armor the shadow was wearing indicated someone with backing... affiliation with a noble family.
"A House Calas Scout? No wonder you knew that trick, and here I'm used to being the trickster.."
"Guilty as charged, names Dusk.. what's yours?" answered Dusk, sitting onto his rear legs as he took his map back and relaxing as Nefaris seemed to not be inclined towards a fight.
"Nefaris, worked with your House back in..."Nefaris admitted, trailing off as both dragons recognized the subject of the war that took so many lives.
"Don't think we ran into each other before.. sorry. You know.. you almost got me with your trick.. maybe we should swap some advice?"
"Maybe, would certainly be useful to vary up.. Say.. have you ran into the arena looking place yet? Couldn't tell from your map"
"Arena?" questioned Dusk, rolling out his map for both Shadows to examine. Now being able to get a better look at the map Nefaris indicated one of the portions that trailed off into the blank space on the parchment. Dusk tilted his head in a quizzical tilt as Nefaris tapped the space with his claw. He also noted a house-like icon.. presumably where Dusk had set up a camp for himself amid his explorations.
"Yeah, this branch leads into it. I haven't gone further down it but it may be something worth looking into with you scouting down here"
"Heh, that obvious? Well thanks for the tip, oh.. and don't worry I'll mark the path towards you as claimed. Shouldn't have to worry about anyone else coming through here."
"Thanks, so.. you wanted to swap tricks. You got the drop on me so.. what do you have?"
"Well..can cover up an eye with a patch so you have an eye adjusted to darkness if your expecting to move between pretty bright and dark areas. Just move the patch to the other eye and boom.. I also do know a few ways to make a distraction. Even got some homemade firecrackers.."
"Firecrackers?" It was Nefaris turn to question Dusk as the Calas scout rolled up his map and stowed it away inside a bag at his flank. From this same bag came a small red container with a fuse attached. He gladly handed it over to Nefaris with a wry grin of his own, the firecracker being small enough to easily conceal within his paws..
"Just strike the fuse and toss it, all the noise has everyone turn their head towards it. Or you could plan it somewhere and wait for it to go off, either way works wonders. If your up for it, come find me again.. can show you my formula. Got to get back exploring down here.. glad to see more Shadows survived the war."
"Likewise Dusk"
The pair of Shadow Dragons shared a nod and with an unspoken agreement slipped back into the shadows. Where Dusk delved further into the Undercity Nefaris returned to the street-rats hideout once more. This encounter had actually been quite productive if slightly cringeworthy for Nefaris with falling for Dusks ambush. Yet a Firecracker in paw this could lead to unexpected opportunities.
Today had been quite the eventful day for Nefaris, first he had introduced himself and his fellow street-rats to the now King Spyro. Following that talk and the latest attempt by Avis to recruit Zephyr he had looked forward to some rest. Now someone had almost emerged into their hideout from the undercity. This circumstance was a far bit more then concerning then the last, his ability to deter anyone from following the tunnel via his shadow element had met.. resistance before it suddenly retreated. He knew this meant that another Shadow Dragon had tried to push through, drawing his attention lest the hideout be compromised. For their safety he elected to discreetly try and find out who exactly had almost stumbled upon them. He now found himself pushing to the underground through the shadows, fortunately there was only one path this unknown dragon could follow downwards.
Amid the narrowing passageway was a piece of paper seemingly dropped by Nefaris quarry; the page blank on the side that the dragon could discern. Pausing Nefaris could discern no sound further down the pathway and this area was too narrow for there to be anywhere to hide.. for a non-shadow dragon at least. The fact the paper had been left behind indicated that whoever had approached the hideout had gone corporeal once more.. so Nefaris slipped out of the shadows to investigate the scene. Flipping the parchment over revealed a decent scrawling that Nefaris recognized as a map, one that showed some of the nearby layout of the Undercity.
"So theres my kindred.." came a voice that brought Nefaris raising his head in alarm towards the ceiling. Above him and manifesting from shadow behind a cluster of narrow stalactites was another Shadow Dragon. Realizing the scroll had been left as bait Nefaris sighed to himself at being outplayed by one of the oldest tricks, at least consoling himself by examining his fellow Shadow as he dropped from the ceiling in front of him. As Shadow dragons went this one was fairly typical, obsidian black scales coloring his body. What differed was the armor he was wearing, a wrap-around helmet and bracers mounted on his front legs noticeably colored black to blend into the wearers body. The armor the shadow was wearing indicated someone with backing... affiliation with a noble family.
"A House Calas Scout? No wonder you knew that trick, and here I'm used to being the trickster.."
"Guilty as charged, names Dusk.. what's yours?" answered Dusk, sitting onto his rear legs as he took his map back and relaxing as Nefaris seemed to not be inclined towards a fight.
"Nefaris, worked with your House back in..."Nefaris admitted, trailing off as both dragons recognized the subject of the war that took so many lives.
"Don't think we ran into each other before.. sorry. You know.. you almost got me with your trick.. maybe we should swap some advice?"
"Maybe, would certainly be useful to vary up.. Say.. have you ran into the arena looking place yet? Couldn't tell from your map"
"Arena?" questioned Dusk, rolling out his map for both Shadows to examine. Now being able to get a better look at the map Nefaris indicated one of the portions that trailed off into the blank space on the parchment. Dusk tilted his head in a quizzical tilt as Nefaris tapped the space with his claw. He also noted a house-like icon.. presumably where Dusk had set up a camp for himself amid his explorations.
"Yeah, this branch leads into it. I haven't gone further down it but it may be something worth looking into with you scouting down here"
"Heh, that obvious? Well thanks for the tip, oh.. and don't worry I'll mark the path towards you as claimed. Shouldn't have to worry about anyone else coming through here."
"Thanks, so.. you wanted to swap tricks. You got the drop on me so.. what do you have?"
"Well..can cover up an eye with a patch so you have an eye adjusted to darkness if your expecting to move between pretty bright and dark areas. Just move the patch to the other eye and boom.. I also do know a few ways to make a distraction. Even got some homemade firecrackers.."
"Firecrackers?" It was Nefaris turn to question Dusk as the Calas scout rolled up his map and stowed it away inside a bag at his flank. From this same bag came a small red container with a fuse attached. He gladly handed it over to Nefaris with a wry grin of his own, the firecracker being small enough to easily conceal within his paws..
"Just strike the fuse and toss it, all the noise has everyone turn their head towards it. Or you could plan it somewhere and wait for it to go off, either way works wonders. If your up for it, come find me again.. can show you my formula. Got to get back exploring down here.. glad to see more Shadows survived the war."
"Likewise Dusk"
The pair of Shadow Dragons shared a nod and with an unspoken agreement slipped back into the shadows. Where Dusk delved further into the Undercity Nefaris returned to the street-rats hideout once more. This encounter had actually been quite productive if slightly cringeworthy for Nefaris with falling for Dusks ambush. Yet a Firecracker in paw this could lead to unexpected opportunities.
Canon: Flare and Nefaris do a Talk
New
[Omake: Flare and Nefaris do a Talk]
Before he left, Spyro took a moment to pause before looking back. "Just a quick tip off in case I am forced to in the future, multiple of the things the houses wanted monopolies on various goods. I'll be doing my best to avoid having to give into those demands at the least, but a quick warning just in case.
Even if it doesn't affect you, it could affect others if my claws are forced, and I'd rather someone know about it and be able to help when the time comes than having nothing. Oh, and I did run into Zephyr before coming here, talked things over with him, left him with some things to think on, and Cynder said something that made him quite happy, but I'll leave him to tell you both that, I doubt he'll be able to keep quiet on it. Have a good day, both of you, I'll see myself out."
He made his way out and closed the door behind him, leaving it just as he left it leaving the two of them behind. Nefaris let out a chuckle as he heard the door close, turning to look at Flare with a grin. "Well, the king seems to be nice, helps to know we don't have another stick up the ass noble running things at the very least."
Flare gave a hum of agreement, yet still kept his eyes on the door. "Maybe, he's not hiding anything at least, too honest." He looks to Nefaris. "But we should probably get to the ape in the room, House Avis and the whole deal they want with Zephyr."
Nefaris groaned and gave him an unamused look. "Really, that crap? Fine, enough of the country-bumpkin king for now, onto us orphans. Are you really sure this is the right way to take things? Look, I'm all for getting Zeph all the support he can get, but I don't want him to misunderstand anything Flare."
Flare just huffed at the orphan comment, though did raise an eyebrow as Nef actually brought up some points he was planning too. "Been thinking it over for a bit now actually, I want Zephyr to be able to thrive, both of us do, and while we can do well here, Zephyr will thrive if he takes their option. Spyro slipped me this while we were talking, it's a copy of the deal House Avis wants with Zephyr, here, you look it over yourself."
Nefaris snatches it from him without much care, unfolding it and reading it through. The longer he read however, the more thin his expression became, before he finally signed and just collapsed back onto his cushions. "...You sure this is accurate Flare? Cause if it is, I say we put in legit effort for this. If what I just read is correct, then Zephyr will be set for life, Convexity he'd be set for two if they're willing to do everything in this, the bumpkin king even put in little notes of his own opinions."
Flare let out a breath and nodded, leaning back into his cushions. "I'm sure, I got a look at the Avis compound from afar a day or so ago, they've been doing more renovations to open it up. They're trying to make a cooperative deal and not force the issue, and that alone has me wanting to convince Zeph. And don't call the king that, Nef, he's putting actual effort into helping Zeph, we can at least respect him for that."
Nefaris snorts in amusement before chuckling. "Yeah yeah don't get your wings in a twist, it's just a harmless joke, I bet you he'd laugh at it anyways. But yeah, he's actually trying to make this work, and I say we go for it, the worst that can happen is Zephyr still says no. If he does say yes, kinda hoping he does now, I can tease him about being a noble and being one of the high folk now." He grins.
Flare smirks lightly at that. "Oh he'd hate that I think, but if you wanna get Zeph mad at you and trying to jump you, that's your choice Nef. I on the other hand will be trying to get as much freedom and care for my brother as I can out of this deal." He reaches over and takes the paper from Nef, beginning to go over it again.
Nefaris lets him without resistance and just flips back into his cushions, planning to take a light nap. "Sounds good, wake me up when Zeph gets back, alright?"
"Will do, get some rest."
Before he left, Spyro took a moment to pause before looking back. "Just a quick tip off in case I am forced to in the future, multiple of the things the houses wanted monopolies on various goods. I'll be doing my best to avoid having to give into those demands at the least, but a quick warning just in case.
Even if it doesn't affect you, it could affect others if my claws are forced, and I'd rather someone know about it and be able to help when the time comes than having nothing. Oh, and I did run into Zephyr before coming here, talked things over with him, left him with some things to think on, and Cynder said something that made him quite happy, but I'll leave him to tell you both that, I doubt he'll be able to keep quiet on it. Have a good day, both of you, I'll see myself out."
He made his way out and closed the door behind him, leaving it just as he left it leaving the two of them behind. Nefaris let out a chuckle as he heard the door close, turning to look at Flare with a grin. "Well, the king seems to be nice, helps to know we don't have another stick up the ass noble running things at the very least."
Flare gave a hum of agreement, yet still kept his eyes on the door. "Maybe, he's not hiding anything at least, too honest." He looks to Nefaris. "But we should probably get to the ape in the room, House Avis and the whole deal they want with Zephyr."
Nefaris groaned and gave him an unamused look. "Really, that crap? Fine, enough of the country-bumpkin king for now, onto us orphans. Are you really sure this is the right way to take things? Look, I'm all for getting Zeph all the support he can get, but I don't want him to misunderstand anything Flare."
Flare just huffed at the orphan comment, though did raise an eyebrow as Nef actually brought up some points he was planning too. "Been thinking it over for a bit now actually, I want Zephyr to be able to thrive, both of us do, and while we can do well here, Zephyr will thrive if he takes their option. Spyro slipped me this while we were talking, it's a copy of the deal House Avis wants with Zephyr, here, you look it over yourself."
Nefaris snatches it from him without much care, unfolding it and reading it through. The longer he read however, the more thin his expression became, before he finally signed and just collapsed back onto his cushions. "...You sure this is accurate Flare? Cause if it is, I say we put in legit effort for this. If what I just read is correct, then Zephyr will be set for life, Convexity he'd be set for two if they're willing to do everything in this, the bumpkin king even put in little notes of his own opinions."
Flare let out a breath and nodded, leaning back into his cushions. "I'm sure, I got a look at the Avis compound from afar a day or so ago, they've been doing more renovations to open it up. They're trying to make a cooperative deal and not force the issue, and that alone has me wanting to convince Zeph. And don't call the king that, Nef, he's putting actual effort into helping Zeph, we can at least respect him for that."
Nefaris snorts in amusement before chuckling. "Yeah yeah don't get your wings in a twist, it's just a harmless joke, I bet you he'd laugh at it anyways. But yeah, he's actually trying to make this work, and I say we go for it, the worst that can happen is Zephyr still says no. If he does say yes, kinda hoping he does now, I can tease him about being a noble and being one of the high folk now." He grins.
Flare smirks lightly at that. "Oh he'd hate that I think, but if you wanna get Zeph mad at you and trying to jump you, that's your choice Nef. I on the other hand will be trying to get as much freedom and care for my brother as I can out of this deal." He reaches over and takes the paper from Nef, beginning to go over it again.
Nefaris lets him without resistance and just flips back into his cushions, planning to take a light nap. "Sounds good, wake me up when Zeph gets back, alright?"
"Will do, get some rest."
Canon: Terms of the Deal
New
[Omake: Terms of the Deal]
Flare smiled as Nefaris drifted off to sleep, reaching over to pull a blanket over the shadow dragon. He then turned his attention back to the paper he held, going over the conditions again.
Note: They mean as much time as agreed upon, they won't force training during free time
Note: Simply put, Zephyr won't be forced to give up time stated as free after it's been decided, that's set in contract, and it can be increased when House Avis is in less critical condition.
Note: They had a plan for this, but the dragoness they wanted to offer isn't enough, she's too behind Zephyr. But yes, they do want him to have kids, and will aid him in finding a match he likes for that.
Note: I imagine this is good, but they are willing to go lower on the amount of time on weekdays Zephyr agrees to spend learning with the House.
Note: They're definitely appealing to you three's circumstances here, but I'd say this is a pretty good point anyways as it helps a, sadly, large range of dragons.
Note: I assume this is what Zephyr would want to do anyways, as the position alone offers quite a lot and is pretty open to interpretation, so a good point.
Note: They want this to succeed, and are desperate. They will do whatever it takes to keep Zephyr willingly attached to them.
Flare sighed as he folded the paper back up and cracked his neck, resting back on his cushions. It was an amazing offer already, and the fact they could negotiate it to favor Zeph even more was great. He did have to give Spyro credit, his notes gave another view on the points.
He looked over to Nef snoring lightly in his sleep and smirked, before pulling over a book and beginning to read, simply waiting for Zephyr to return.
(I'll go through and edit this as needed if stuff doesn't look right)
Flare smiled as Nefaris drifted off to sleep, reaching over to pull a blanket over the shadow dragon. He then turned his attention back to the paper he held, going over the conditions again.
- House Avis will put as many resources, as much time, and as much effort as it can into assisting with the training of Zephyr.
Note: They mean as much time as agreed upon, they won't force training during free time
- Zephyr will have ample time to do as he wishes, and House Avis will work with him and anyone he defers to in discussion of this, this can even be expanded later depending on circumstances.
Note: Simply put, Zephyr won't be forced to give up time stated as free after it's been decided, that's set in contract, and it can be increased when House Avis is in less critical condition.
- House Avis will aid Zephyr in finding a match he enjoys, with a wind dragon talented enough to, if not match, keep up well enough with him.
Note: They had a plan for this, but the dragoness they wanted to offer isn't enough, she's too behind Zephyr. But yes, they do want him to have kids, and will aid him in finding a match he likes for that.
- As a baseline on free time, Zephyr will have at minimum 75% of his time to himself, with weekends being 100% to himself. He can choose to go to additional lessons or training as well.
Note: I imagine this is good, but they are willing to go lower on the amount of time on weekdays Zephyr agrees to spend learning with the House.
- House Avis will work to improve living conditions for orphaned dragons, when under less critical circumstances, the House will provide additional aid on top of this original.
Note: They're definitely appealing to you three's circumstances here, but I'd say this is a pretty good point anyways as it helps a, sadly, large range of dragons.
- House Avis will fully back Zephyr as the next candidate to be the Wind Guardian, and pull favors to get additional resources for training him for the position if he wishes to pursue the position.
Note: I assume this is what Zephyr would want to do anyways, as the position alone offers quite a lot and is pretty open to interpretation, so a good point.
- This contract may be brought back to the table at any point if Zephyr feels it constrains him too much, and be renegotiated to fix these problems.
Note: They want this to succeed, and are desperate. They will do whatever it takes to keep Zephyr willingly attached to them.
Flare sighed as he folded the paper back up and cracked his neck, resting back on his cushions. It was an amazing offer already, and the fact they could negotiate it to favor Zeph even more was great. He did have to give Spyro credit, his notes gave another view on the points.
He looked over to Nef snoring lightly in his sleep and smirked, before pulling over a book and beginning to read, simply waiting for Zephyr to return.
(I'll go through and edit this as needed if stuff doesn't look right)
Canon: Spyro and Cicero do a Discussion
New
[Omake: Spyro and Cicero do a Discussion]
Spyro hummed to himself as he flew through the entrance to the House Avis compound, landing and beginning to make his way to the scheduled meeting. He arrived and made his way over to the table to take a seat, giving Lord Circos a smile and a nod as he sat on the provided cushions.
"Thank you for agreeing to meet me, Lord Circos. I've had a few talks with Zephyr, his brother and their friend. I think I have a few ideas on how House Avis can better refine the deal to suit Zephyr."
Circos smiled back and gave a nod of his own, a servant soon entering with hot tea for the two of them, setting it on the table. "It is no issue young King, your assistance in this matter is more than enough reason for me to agree. And please, enjoy the refreshments while we talk."
Spyro took it and took a sip, minty, indeed refreshing. "Delicious, but yes, onto refinement. Simply put, freedom is the main factor, as you know. Zephyr requires it to even accept the deal. I would say making most classes you'd like him to attend optional, yet encouraging him to accept doing them in his free time. He'd be choosing to do it himself, not having it forced upon him."
Circos hummed before nodding. "Simple, yet effective, I like it. I will look into making the lessons more exciting in that case, the more fun they are, the more likely he will be to come back for them."
Spyro nodded with a smile. "Indeed, it would also be smart to offer help when possible for the orphans of Warfang. I understand that it is playing to emotions, but even so, it is simply a good thing to do, and would likely improve his opinions on the house. Flare asked me about resources for rebuilding Warfang actually, thankfully he seemed understanding as to why I couldn't get that yet."
Circos grimaced and nodded. "Yes, I had similar thoughts. The only issue is we do not have enough members at the moment to focus on anything but recovery. But yes, in the future I could guarantee something like that, maybe even working with his brother and friend to best put resources where they are needed most."
Spyro took another sip of the tea. "I see, good to know, I'll make sure to clarify that in the talks if it comes up. But onto another issue, Gale. If she was better off than she is, I'd consider marrying her to Zephyr, however she simply isn't. This is no insult to her, however I don't think either of them would, in the end, be happy with the marriage. Zephyr due to not having someone who can at least keep up with him, and Gale due to the fact she wouldn't draw his eyes near as much as she wishes."
Circos sighed but did nod. "Yes, that was a concern of mine as well, in the future if she manages to catch up well enough the prospects look good, but at the moment I have to agree with you. Very well, we will hold off on any marriages for the moment, but are you sure you have enough to convince Zephyr regardless?"
"About as sure as I can be. I won't guarantee it, because there's always a chance he can refuse. I think I have a solid chance to get him to agree though, so I wouldn't worry about it too much." He finished off his tea and set the cup down gently on the table.
Cicero did the same. "Alright, I'll trust you with this young one, you have been putting in quite the effort from what you have told me so far. Feel free to leave whenever you wish, I however need to get back to conducting reconstruction efforts. Talk to you another time, young King."
"And you as well, Lord Cicero."
Spyro hummed to himself as he flew through the entrance to the House Avis compound, landing and beginning to make his way to the scheduled meeting. He arrived and made his way over to the table to take a seat, giving Lord Circos a smile and a nod as he sat on the provided cushions.
"Thank you for agreeing to meet me, Lord Circos. I've had a few talks with Zephyr, his brother and their friend. I think I have a few ideas on how House Avis can better refine the deal to suit Zephyr."
Circos smiled back and gave a nod of his own, a servant soon entering with hot tea for the two of them, setting it on the table. "It is no issue young King, your assistance in this matter is more than enough reason for me to agree. And please, enjoy the refreshments while we talk."
Spyro took it and took a sip, minty, indeed refreshing. "Delicious, but yes, onto refinement. Simply put, freedom is the main factor, as you know. Zephyr requires it to even accept the deal. I would say making most classes you'd like him to attend optional, yet encouraging him to accept doing them in his free time. He'd be choosing to do it himself, not having it forced upon him."
Circos hummed before nodding. "Simple, yet effective, I like it. I will look into making the lessons more exciting in that case, the more fun they are, the more likely he will be to come back for them."
Spyro nodded with a smile. "Indeed, it would also be smart to offer help when possible for the orphans of Warfang. I understand that it is playing to emotions, but even so, it is simply a good thing to do, and would likely improve his opinions on the house. Flare asked me about resources for rebuilding Warfang actually, thankfully he seemed understanding as to why I couldn't get that yet."
Circos grimaced and nodded. "Yes, I had similar thoughts. The only issue is we do not have enough members at the moment to focus on anything but recovery. But yes, in the future I could guarantee something like that, maybe even working with his brother and friend to best put resources where they are needed most."
Spyro took another sip of the tea. "I see, good to know, I'll make sure to clarify that in the talks if it comes up. But onto another issue, Gale. If she was better off than she is, I'd consider marrying her to Zephyr, however she simply isn't. This is no insult to her, however I don't think either of them would, in the end, be happy with the marriage. Zephyr due to not having someone who can at least keep up with him, and Gale due to the fact she wouldn't draw his eyes near as much as she wishes."
Circos sighed but did nod. "Yes, that was a concern of mine as well, in the future if she manages to catch up well enough the prospects look good, but at the moment I have to agree with you. Very well, we will hold off on any marriages for the moment, but are you sure you have enough to convince Zephyr regardless?"
"About as sure as I can be. I won't guarantee it, because there's always a chance he can refuse. I think I have a solid chance to get him to agree though, so I wouldn't worry about it too much." He finished off his tea and set the cup down gently on the table.
Cicero did the same. "Alright, I'll trust you with this young one, you have been putting in quite the effort from what you have told me so far. Feel free to leave whenever you wish, I however need to get back to conducting reconstruction efforts. Talk to you another time, young King."
"And you as well, Lord Cicero."