Frost Armedale

(20978: 30 years before Book 8)

A new day arose for Frost Armedale. His chambers were that of the highest tier of furniture and paintings. All due to his role as the highest commander in chief to the queen. He stretched his limbs including his wings. Feeling well rested after a long day of work from the day before. He rolled over the bed and landed onto his claws. He wasted no time going to the mirror and checking his appearance. Noticing how exhausted his face looked, which wouldn’t look good to his wing members. He scoffed and shook his head, disbelieved that he could look so miserable. He couldn’t determine if his line of work was the cause or the mental strain that comes with it afterwards. 

Frost quickly started to apply some makeup to his face. Not wanting the dried lips of his maw or his eyes to be visual to others around him. While he was slow at it and others might’ve groaned at how slow he took. To him, it went by fast and he finished in less than thirty minutes. He then quickly started to gather his armor and his sword. Ensuring that it was neatly encased inside of the sheath on his side. He equipped all of his armor beside his helmet, keeping his arm around it as he took one last long at himself. He took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself for the day ahead. The new criminals he was going to face alongside the queen’s constant belittling. 

Then he went over to the bedroom door and opened it. Outside of his chambers stood two of his loyal squad leaders. The ones that saluted and swore to keep him safe in times of invasion. The one on the right was named Icel Levy, known for his keen skills in maneuvering in flight and reaction time in battle. While he was skilled in hand-to-hand combat, he was the strongest in terms of long range attacks with his ice breath. The one on the left was named Ken Hammel. He was perfect in hand-to-hand combat, even beating Frost himself in a one on one stand off. He was decent in his reaction time skills and often used short burst ice breath instead of long range. Which did help when an intruder was too close for comfort. “Boys, good morning.” 

“Morning Frost squad leader!” They both saluted as soon as they saw him. Frost felt the usual warmth in his heart from their honor and loyalty. He managed to form a small smile, gesturing for them to escort him down the hallway. They didn’t resist as they kept close behind him whilst traversing the hallway. 

“I hope you boys are ready for another nightmare fuel day.” Frost joked, which they both chuckled and grinned. 

“As long as we are with you when shit happens, it’ll not be as mentally straining.” Ken exclaimed, which Icel nodded. Frost chuckled from his response, feeling even more joyful to have them at his sides. They knew just as much as Frost how crazy Glacier has become. However, none of them had the power to do anything about it. She was the queen after all. They swore loyalty and honor under her. To serve her no matter how bad things get. Besides, what exactly could they do? They were stuck within the borders of Frigidia. No other kingdoms would accept them, not to mention the desert and Oceana’s restrictions to outsiders. Which would only leave Floria, which only grew more hostile after the Fuegan war years back. Regardless, they were stuck here, whether they liked it or not. 

After traversing through the hallway, they reached the corridor of one of Frost’s most loyal companions. What many didn’t know though, was that this companion wasn’t just his most loyal. They meant something far greater to Frost than Glacier ever knew about. He knocked on the door while his two guards idled either side. Continuing to fulfill their usual bodyguard roles. Frost’s ears perked up when he heard noises on the other side. Shuffling and clawsteps approaching the door. Frost’s heart fluttered in anticipation and excitement. The door opened, revealing the male Frigidian before him with no armor visible on his body. He was slightly shorter than Frost, but he had a thick neck and his horns were sharper like he’s been constantly keeping them in check. His eye color was the same as Frost’s, in which his soul only felt more connected as a result. “Hey Powder Rin, I hope you’re ready for another-”

Before Frost could respond, Powder pulled him into the room and closed the door with a loud thud. Ken and Icel were likely caught off guard by this, but didn’t go in to save him. They were the only ones closest to Frost to know the real reason behind this. Frost was pulled into a loving kiss as Powder wrapped him in a tight and close embrace. Frost closed his eyes as he felt his heart flutter in pure joy and relief. The two of them kissed and made out in the privacy of the room. Frost accidentally released his helmet, letting it clang against the floor as he tried to pull Powder closer to himself as well. As they wrestled inside of each other’s maw, Frost pushed Powder to the floor. Above him as he released the tender kiss and gazed into his eyes. “I guess that’s a way of saving good morning to me.” 

Powder chuckled and let their noses make contact. He was silent for a long moment as he caressed the side of Frost’s neck. Almost like he was trying to let this moment last as long as possible. Then Powder’s expression shifted from happiness and relief, to genuine worry. Frost noticed this as his own smile faltered on his own snout. “What’s wrong?” He asked, keeping his eyes locked with Powder’s. 

“Will you be okay?” Powder asked, “I don’t want you to leave work feeling so awful like these last few weeks.” Frost slowly lifted himself off of Powder. Allowing him to sit up as well while Frost’s thoughts rushed through his mind. 

“I’ll be fine.” He assured him, “Besides, that’s part of my job. I wouldn’t be in this rank if I couldn’t handle it.” He told him, his smile returning to his maw. Powder wasn’t fully convinced, but he didn’t press him any further. Powder hung his head as his gaze fell to the floor. His wings remain folded to his sides. Frost extended his wing and pulled Powder closer to his side. “Hey, how about after work? We go out to eat somewhere. I’ll take you somewhere fancy with the best food to offer.” 

“You don’t need to do that, Frost. I’m happy with just eating anywhere. As long as it’s with you, I’m content with it.” He nudged Frost’s shoulder, a small grin forming across his snout. Frost chuckled and shrugged his shoulders, his gaze going to the bedroom door. 

“I just wanna do something special. We don’t get that chance very often. I just want it to be meaningful for both of us.” Frost told him, his small grin fading as the memories and thoughts of his workload filled his mind. Glacier’s power overstepped beyond the limits and boundaries that were set. The two of them sat together in silence for several minutes. Then Powder used a wing to pull his focus back to his. 

“I think being together in the bedroom would be more than enough.” They exchanged another kiss, Frost closing his eyes as he embraced the moment. His heart fluttered again with more happiness, his body and mind nearly begging for more. Then that was when a knock erupted from the door, interrupting their moment. 

“Frost and Powder, it’s time to go.” The voice of Ken was heard on the other end. Frost sighed and let their foreheads touch each other. They let the silence fill the air, still not wanting to let each other go. 

“Don’t worry.” Powder’s voice broke the silence. Leaning up into Frost’s ear and whispering into it. “I’ll make sure tonight is a moment to be worth remembering.” Frost couldn’t help but laugh, exchanging another kiss with him. Then they helped each other up to their claws. Frost grabbed his helmet and equipped it onto his head. Powder went over to his pair of armor and his weapon stash. He pulled out an axe and strapped it to his side, alongside a shield. When it came to combat, Powder loved axes, alongside spears in times of immense combat. He was never seen without a shield too. It was his way of personal safety, always using it to shield his head. When Powder was ready, he walked over to Frost’s side, letting him open it first. Ken and Icel were idly ready for them, barely moving from their guarding spots. 

“We’re ready, let’s get going.” Icel and Ken nod and begin to escort Frost and Powder through the rest of the hallway. Other rooms where guards stayed were left alone as they finally arrived at the main room. Queen Glacier wasn’t present yet, but there were civilians standing by with concerned looks on their faces. One of them, a Frigidian mother in ragged clothing and shoes, turned their attention to Frost as soon as she spotted him. 

“Oh thank goodness, someone of high authority!” She exclaimed, “You must be nicer than Glacier, right? You can help us with the lava leak near our house, can you?” She asked, her daughter behind her. She held tight around her mother’s hind leg. Clearly afraid and anxious of the guards making their way into the room. 

“Ma’am, I’m sorry, but that’s not our call to make.” Frost told her, raising a claw out to calm her down. 

“But this is serious!” The mother’s voice grew louder. “The blacksmith’s headquarters nearby is having major trouble with its lava leakage. If you don’t fix this now, it could hurt me and my daughter.” She said, sounding more desperate as she spoke. Almost immediately, Frost felt horrible for her situation. He glanced down at the floor in shame. Wishing that he could do more. “I’ve tried bringing this up to you guys before. All I got was some silent comments about how they’d handle it. Yet, it hasn’t even been cleaned up yet!” 

“You understand that lava is a difficult thing to clean up, right?” One of the nearby guards asked, one that Frost knew to be named Hamel Harington. He was a bit cocky and lazy, mostly being drafted in because Glacier wanted more young dragons in charge. Another thing that Frost didn’t like, but couldn’t do anything about since Glacier was above him in power. 

The mother scoffed, her expression shifting to disbelief. She gestured to the young recruit before fully facing Frost. “You can’t seriously believe that it’s so difficult that it requires multiple times to deal with the situation?” She gestured to the front door of the castle. “I can’t live like this.” She said, nearly about to cry. “My daughter!” She raised her voice as she gestured to her terrified dragonet hiding behind her hind leg. “Can’t live like this, so please. Do something about it! I don’t think this is how you want to run a kingdom!” 

“I understand your concerns ma’am, we’ll let Glacier know about these matters.” The mother was distraught, holding a claw up to her maw. She said something under her breath, but it was too quiet to hear. Frost took a deep breath as she glanced over at Powder and nodded to him. Giving him the signal to grab Glacier from her bedroom. He turned and was escorted with Ken through a passageway on the upper floor. Which led off to Queen Glacier’s chambers. I don’t want to wake her up this morning. Not after what happened yesterday. He shivered at the thought of Glacier scolding him for a minor mistake on his part. A miscalculation that was so minor, it barely changed anything. 

Frost walked over to the side of the throne and sat down. He breathed out a sigh of relief, his legs already feeling too weak to remain standing. Since I’m supposedly the responsible one around here. I wouldn’t be surprised if she scolds me for sitting. While all the new recruits stand around and make jokes while she’s listening. He rolls his eyes and scoffs. Always the excuse that they're young and don’t know better. He growled audibly at the thought, slouching and resting the side of his head on his claw. How did it even get this bad? After what felt like a solid hour, Queen Glacier was heard approaching the throne room. Frost stood up to his claws before she could notice him. He cleared his throat and held his head straight. Getting into the usual character of him being a loyal servant of the queen. 

“FROST!” Glacier’s voice cut through the air so loudly that he nearly became deaf. Frost growled quietly to himself, before stepping forth and looking up to the second floor. Glacier appeared near the railing, adjusting her crown on her head. “Why is it that your henchman came to wake me up? I was most preferring you instead at my chambers.” Frost kept his maw shut, not wanting to say anything that could upset her more than she already was. Glacier looked at him longingly, before he stepped aside and extended a wing to the distraught mother and daughter. Glacier’s eyes shifted to them, nearly startled by their presence. “What do you want?” She asked bluntly, her tone cold like she barely cared of whatever concerns they had. 

“It’s about the lava incident.” The mother spoke up, “Your guards are useless, they won’t clean up the mess that’s about to destroy my house!” Glacier extended her wings and descended down upon her throne. She sat down and made herself comfortable while the mother continued with her complaint. If I was king, I wouldn’t let this slide. Surely Glacier could do something already, right? He remarked in his mind as he glanced over at Glacier’s unconcerned posture and expression. “Please, could you get someone to fix what’s happening? It’s the least that I ask for, your highness.” She pleaded, even more desperate this time. Glacier stared at her for a long moment, then shifted her gaze to Frost next. 

“Frost…” Her tone sounded like someone who was about to put the blame on him. Out of all dragons. “Why haven’t your men cleaned this up?” 

“Ma’am.” Frost’s gaze went to the mother. “Who did you push this concern to beforehand?” Glacier glanced over to her, but her head’s direction didn’t move from him. 

“It was um… Captain Kernal, I believe?” She recalled.

“And?” Glacier asked, raising an eyebrow. “What did he say?” 

“That he’ll clean it up as soon as possible.” The mother mentioned, “But that was five days ago. It’s still there.” She said as she gestured to the front door of the castle. “The air is nearly becoming unbreathable and the heat is making it harder to stay in our house.” 

“Five days…” Glacier repeated out loud for everyone to hear. “I’m sorry dear, we’ll get this sorted quickly.” She then turned her attention to one of the younger guards in the room. This one Frost recognized to be Aden, who owned a small squad of guards. “Aden, call in some assistance from your squad to help this lady. Also try to figure out why the lava situation even occurred, please. After today, I don’t want to hear about this tragedy ever again.” Aden saluted pathetically without much energy put into it. Then he went over to the mother and daughter and followed them out. Glacier breathed out a sigh, leaning back against her throne. “I don’t know why some of you can’t even do your jobs correctly. This is ridiculous that I have to do all the work around here.” 

Frost remained silent, rubbing his maw with a digit. Glacier then glanced around at the other guards, including Frost and Powder’s. “Is that it? Is there anybody else with complaints?” When head shakes were given, Glacier pushed herself off the throne and onto her claws. “Good, then Frost, follow me. I wanna eat something.” Frost cursed in his head when he realized what this meant. He groaned in his head, beginning to follow her back up to the second floor. “If anybody else has something to say, tell them to wait or come back later.” As Frost crossed Powder, they exchanged a knowing look with each other. Then Frost vanished in a hallway, continuing to follow Glacier. They arrived at the kitchen where other chefs were seen preparing food. Glacier checked the meals closely, even sniffing them like she suspected them of tampering. “How about this one?” She suddenly exclaimed, picking up the pan and holding it close to her nostrils. “It smells rotten.” She held it towards Frost for him to check it. 

One simple look at it and he could already see mold on it. “That’s because it is, your majesty.” He said with a gesture to the meat inside. 

Glacier glanced down at it, exchanging an approving nod. Then she gripped the Frigidian that appeared to have barely crossed adulthood. “This little wimp is trying to kill me then. Arrest this pathetic wyrm, I don’t want to see him back in this kitchen ever again!” The chefs continued what they were doing. They were clearly sweating by this point from the imposing and terrifying presence of Glacier in the room. She shoved the young dragon chef towards him, which he quickly apprehended. Although, he was slightly resistant in the effort like Frost didn’t actually want to. What if it was just a mistake and she’s overreacting? He shook his head, not wanting to show weakness in front of Glacier. He chained his wrists and back legs, letting him side off to the side. 

“And what about you?” Frost turned to see Glacier pushing another one of the chefs away. She sniffed the pot and used a spoon to get some of the porridge. She sniffed it then handed it over to the chef. “Last I checked, you are a newer chef. So, taste it in front of me and make sure you swallow.” The dragon gulped in worry before pulling the spoon up to his maw. He made sure to visibly show that he fully took a sip and swallowed it. He opened his maw up so she could double check that he did it. “Good, get back to work. I’ll have Frost watch over you guys in case you do something heinous.” Glacier then began to head to the table to sit down. Frost felt his eye twitch with annoyance and irritation. Already feeling overwhelmed with all of these duties she’s putting onto him. Lady, I can only be in so many places at once.

He took a deep breath to relax himself. Glancing down at the young dragon sitting against the wall with restraints. Thankfully, Powder and Icel showed up in the doorway. The face of Powder was already telling him how concerned he was for him. However, Frost didn’t want to show weakness with Glacier present. He gestured to the contained dragon beside him. “Hey um, can you guys put him in his cell? I have to stay and watch the chefs.” He said, already sounding exhausted as he gestured to the chefs. 

“Are you sure? I can do it.” Powder said, placing a paw onto his own chest. Already offering to take his place instead. Just like the wonderful dragon that he is. How am I so lucky to have someone like him?

“No, it’s fine. I don’t want her to have a fit.” Icel was already in motion to stand up the young dragon. Powder exchanged a small smile before assisting Icel in escorting out of the room. Frost breathed out a sigh as he looked forward, returning his focus on the chefs. He proceeded forth, glancing at each of their pans and pots closely. Thankfully, nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary or suspicious. When they were all done, they entered the room and served their dishes to Glacier. She wasted no time digging in while Frost stood by idly. The meal went by like normal with no problems. Frost stood quietly with his head held high, eyes forward, trying to make himself look like a statue to any outside observer. 

By the time Glacier was finished, the chefs returned to start cleaning up after her. “Well that was good…” She then flung a piece of bacon back to Frost. He barely managed to catch it in his claws. “Here, for your servitude this morning.” Frost glanced at the bacon in confusion and slight disgust. Glacier stood up to her claws and met with his gaze. “What? Don’t like bacon?” 

“Um, no. I’m just not fond of breakfast meals in general.” He commented with disgust. That’s when Glacier ripped the bacon out of his claws. 

“Disgraceful, I’ll just have it myself then.” She wasted no time putting it into her maw and chewing it. “Come, we got much to do today.” Frost sighed and nodded, gesturing for her to take the lead. She did so, making their leave out of the room. For the rest of the day, Frost was either given nearly impossible tasks or multi-tasks all at the same time. Frost’s demeanor was rapidly deplenishing like any other day he had to deal with it. Such tasks include cleaning messes through the castle or repairing things, or even helping Glacier do things that were hard for herself to do. The hours ticked by fast yet slowly, which made him even more salty and bitter as the day went on. Then night time fell and more civilians were coming in to shout their concerns about various topics. Frost found himself in the main throne room, completely wrecked with his entire body weak and aching. It was the usual crap he always had to deal with. Every single day, unable to do anything about it other than deal with it. Just like what Glacier always told him if he ever whined about it. 

Finally, two guards entered the room with a young dragonet held in their grip. They plopped him in between themselves and Glacier, who sat on the throne more irritable than most days. Likely due to the stressful day that they’ve been through. With all of that exhaustion and irritation consumed by Frost’s presence instead. “Your majesty, this dragonet accidentally hurt another rich dragon’s son. Broke their legs in a supposedly ‘playful’ session.” 

“Really now?” Glacier commented, leaning forward as she glared at the dragonet. “Who may this son’s father be?” She asked, seemingly more worried about someone other than the poor dragonet before her. 

“Mr. Thundal Rachel, your highness.” The guard told her, which seemed to put off Glacier’s entire calm demeanor. 

“Thundal?!” She shouted with anger, her focus going to the dragonet. “You little runt! Where were your parents during all of this?!” She asked, which the dragonet nearly folded under all the pressure. They seemed to be mere moments from crying their eyes out. “Don’t you dare cry in my throne room! I will not take pity on those playing victimhood!” She then gestured to Frost with a single digit. “Frost, take him away! I will not pay favorites in the course of someone who wants to play games with an important role model!” 

Frost glanced at the dragonet, then back at Glacier. Barely moving from his spot, his expression still full of exhaustion, his body pent up with stress. “For how long, your majesty?” He asked, his tone mixed with concern and boredom. 

“Forever!” Glacier demanded with her claw clanging against her throne. “Wait no, make it death.” She shooed the dragonet away and gestured to Frost to do it. He stopped and turned his attention to the dragonet. They were full on crying at this point, the guards pausing in horror from her commands. Wait what? She can’t be serious, right? She wants to sentence a dragonet with a full life to live for a simple accident? Perhaps she’s just not thinking straight? When Glacier noticed the still room with none of the guards moving, not even Frost. She turned to Frost like any other time he doesn’t do something right away. “Well? Why are you just standing there?” 

“Your majesty, I beg your pardon. Did you just say you wanted us to… Sentence a dragonet to death?” He asked, unsure if he heard her correctly. 

“Are you deaf? That’s what I just said, now DO IT!” She yelled louder, pointing a single digit at the dragonet. 

“Your highness, that’s immoral. He’s just a kid.” Frost told her, surprised that he was standing up to her. He glanced around at the other guards in the room. All of them were just as shaken and frozen as him. It was almost like their loyalty had just shattered from just hearing such words as well. Despite some of them seemingly trying to give out the image they were the most loyal in the whole kingdom. Glacier scoffed, turning her body towards him whilst still sitting on the throne. 

“Are you seriously telling me what’s immoral? You are just a guard, nothing more, nothing less. You take orders from me, and if I tell you to do something, I mean it.” She remarked, her tone shifting to genuine irritation now. Just a guard? I’m more than that, ice stick. I literally uphold the entire security around here. “Now, quit talking back and do what I tell you to do!” She barked. When Frost remained standing there, glaring at her. She scoffed and groaned, annoyed. “He just assaulted another dragonet, I’m not going to give him special treatment simply because it might’ve been ‘playful.’ Now take him to his cell until we decide what day to execute him.” 

“Your majesty, perhaps after a long day’s work, you aren’t thinking clearly. I’ll take him to a cell and find his par-” Before Frost could respond whilst moving towards the dragonet. Glacier shouted even louder, slamming her claws against the throne for everyone to hear. Frost froze and turned to her as her hostility grew from his inability to listen to her. 

“NO! If I say I want something done, then I DEMAND IT!” She yelled, “You’re so fucking useless, after everything we do together, you dare challenge my authority now?! You’re so pathetic. I should just replace you with someone different. Someone who knows how to take orders like they’re supposed to.” Frost paused completely as something broke inside of him. After everything he’s done for Glacier, this is how he was repaid? He did everything he could to satisfy her and it was never enough. Now that he was trying to get her to understand how morally wrong this was. She wasn’t willing to listen to a single word he said. Instead of making a scene or protesting further. He sighed and hung his head, walking over to the dragonet. 

“I’m sorry your majesty.” He said in a low voice. “I’ll do as you command.” The other two guards that had escorted the dragonet exchanged concerned glances with Frost. One of them even mouthing towards in his direction. From what Frost lip read from them. They were asking if he was sure about this. He gestured them off with a wing, keeping his head low as he escorted the dragonet to the dungeon. 

“Good. Hopefully you’ll stop protesting from now and just do what I ask of you.” Frost didn’t say another word as he escorted the dragonet to the dungeon. He felt the stares of other guards watch him leave. Whether it was judgement or genuine fear, he couldn’t tell. He knew that Powder was amongst them. Gosh, I could really use his advice right about now. When they arrived to the dungeon, Frost saw the other prisoners in cages. A combination of other criminals, murderers, creeps, litterers, robbers, and even the falsely accused. Frost took the dragonet past other cages until they reached an empty one. In order to keep his sanity in check after being so mentally crushed from the day. He wanted to make sure the dragonet was safely kept in a cage alone. He didn’t deserve to be put in a place like this. Even Frost knew that he wasn’t a criminal. The whole situation escalated beyond proportion and he hated it. 

“W-What’s going to happen to me?” The dragonet asked as he guided him inside the empty cage. Frost closed the cage door and began to lock it. His terrified, sweet, innocent voice made his heart turn with guilt. He paused and looked down at the dragonet. Already feeling awful for what’s happening to him. “A-Am I going to d-die?” For the longest moment he stood there. He had nothing to say to him. Not because he was angry or disappointed in him, but rather stuck. He could open the cage right now and let him free. Pretend like nothing like this ever happened. However, something else was beginning to form in his mind. An idea that he was uncertain about. However, he needed more opinions, more external thoughts about it before he could make such a judgement. 

Frost took a deep breath and leaned in closer to the dragonet. “No.” He assured him, “I’ll get you out of here, but I need you to stay in here for a little while, okay?” The dragonet nodded slightly, but he was still deeply scared. “I’ll get in contact with your parents. What are you and your parents' names?” 

“M-My name is Jeramyl, my mom and dad are Cansis and Dalton.” Frost held out a claw for Jeramyl to reach out towards. He did so, but gently and nervously. He then placed his other paw over, holding it carefully. 

“Jeramyl, after tonight, things are going to change for you and your family, okay? I don’t know how long it’ll take for it to come into motion, but I promise to save you from here. You don’t deserve this.” Jeramyl’s expression shifted to hope and curiosity. Unsure of what he was implying, but he appreciated his words. When they exchanged smiles, he let go of his paw and returned to his claws. He turned and left the dungeon, passing the other dragons in their own cells. Some of them yelled at him, taunting or threatening him. He ignored each comment as he closed the dungeon door behind him. Breathing out a sigh of relief, yet anticipation creeping upon him in the back of his mind. Is what I’m thinking even a good idea? What am I even thinking? Nobody is going to fall for such a stupid idea!

He shook his head, heading back to the main throne room. Thankfully by the time he reached the room, Glacier had been taken to her bedroom. With Powder gone, it’s likely he was the one to escort her away. As soon as Frost was spotted by the other guards. Two of them walked over, ones Frost knew to be Garry and Jamal. “Frost, what the hell was all that?” Garry asked, gesturing to the throne where Glacier sat. “I never heard her say such horrible things before to someone so undeserving.” 

“I know.” Frost admitted, “I think she just needs some rest.” He exclaimed, not believing that in the slightest. Thoughts and memories rushing into his head from all of the moments he shared with Glacier. The horrible treatment she gave him and her sheer confidence in saying he’s useless and pathetic. How she’s willing to replace him at any moment. 

“Pfft, if I was in your position, I would’ve been harsher with her.” Jamal said, sitting and folding their arms across their chest. Frost looked away, his eyes shifting to the second floor where Powder stood not long ago. 

“Like I’d believe that.” Garry remarked as he turned to Jamal. “We all know you are all bark, no bite.” Frost didn’t comment at all during their behind Glacier’s back discussion. Instead, he tuned out their words and stepped away, extending his wings out. He heard the two of them stop and call out of him. However, he ignored them as he ascended up to the second floor and landed softly next to Icel. Who stood nearby with a shocked look on his face. 

“You okay, sir?” Icel asked, noticing the look on Frost’s face. 

“I could ask the same question.” Frost commented, “Have you seen Powder?” He then started to look in each direction, hoping to find him. 

“He told me to tell you to meet him in his headquarters.” Icel told him, nodding his head in the direction of the hallway. Frost nodded in exchange, thanking him before flying over to the hallway. Icel nearly followed but Frost stopped him. Assuring him that he needed some privacy. Frost made his way through the halls. Despite the wacky layout, he managed to find the corridor of Powder’s room. He paused and took a deep breath, unsure how this was going to go. He took some steady breaths, unsure if Powder was going to be upset with him or calm. Just keep it cool. He loves you, he understands you better than anyone else here. Then he knocked on the door, soft yet loud enough for Powder to hear if he was in the room. After a few minutes, he heard shuffling on the other side before the door finally opened. Revealing Powder’s exhausted face and clearly stunned expression. 

Frost stepped into the room quickly, letting Powder shut the door behind him. He locked it and then turned to face Frost. “What the hell happened out there?” He asked, but he didn’t sound angry, just confused. 

“I don’t know.” Frost told him, “I tried to tell her to not do what she was thinking, but she refused to listen to me.” He took off his helmet and set it down onto a nearby table. Then he sat down on bed, watching Powder approach him. He was still wearing his armor, not even bothering to take it off while he was in the room before Frost arrived. Powder’s expression changed to concern and worry, nuzzling his neck affectionately. Frost returned the gesture, missing his gentle and loving touch against his scales. 

“What did you do with the dragonet?” Powder asked, seizing the nuzzles and meeting with his gaze. 

“I put him in an empty cell, away from the other criminals.” Frost told him, which seemed to have relieved Powder’s worry. “I also told him that I’d contact his parents and improve their situation.” 

Powder was taken aback by this. He tilted his head and gave him a weird look. “Hm? What did you mean by that?” Confused by the comment, which even confused Frost as well. He didn’t know what he meant by his own choice of words either. However, he knew that the pent up anger inside of him was the core reason. Maybe I DID mean something by those words? He remained silent for a long moment, debating his thoughts carefully. “Honey?” Powder’s voice pulled him out of his train of thoughts. “What’s wrong? You can talk to me, you know? If there’s something bugging you, just say it. I’d understand.” 

Frost remained seated there, staring into Powder’s eyes longingly. Almost seeing himself within his own partner. Lost, confused, and maybe even angry at the whole situation they were living in day by day. Frost sighed sadly, “Powder, I think I’m done. I can’t do this anymore.” Powder stared curiously, a little surprised by those words. “After that dragonet incident, I… I can’t put up with this bullcrap anymore.” Powder listened intently and closely, wanting to hear every word he said. “I… If I was king, I wouldn’t treat these dragons so awful. It’s almost like to Queen Glacier, it’s just an inconvenience to them. I stand by and listen to these poor souls suffer and never get help. Instead, she just blames everyone but herself for these problems.” 

“What are you trying to say, Frost?” Powder asked, trying to get him to say what’s on his mind. 

Frost let out a defeated sigh. The anger within him, the boiled up anger and the final straw with the dragonet from only an hour ago. He couldn’t let this happen anymore, he needed to take a step. Whether it was risky or not, he needed to do it. Not just for himself, but for everyone else’s safety. “I want to overthrow Glacier.” He told him, his tone showing that he was serious. Powder’s expression didn’t falter, he stared with the same concern and curious look he started with. “Something needs to be done, but I can’t do it alone. I… I need help to make it happen.” Powder turned his attention away, almost like he was contemplating Frost’s words carefully. When it seemed like Powder didn’t want to help him. He quickly backtracked and tried to change his idea with something more fitting. “If you don’t think it’s a good idea, then me and you can just leave. We can find a better place for just the two of us. Where we don’t need to worry about all of this anymore. We can live happily, where Queen Glacier can’t hurt-”

“Let’s do it.” Frost stopped what he was saying, shocked by the interruption. Although, he didn’t know which one he was agreeing with. 

“W-Which one? The first idea or the second?” Frost asked. 

“Which one do you think I’m referring to?” Powder turned to face him, meeting with his eyes. “The second idea seems a little selfish and makes us look like criminals to everyone. We’d be on the run for years, maybe even our entire lives with nobody to support us.” Powder told him, “But the first idea? I think that’s better for everybody. It’ll give all of us a chance to start over and build anew. Not just with me and you, but with innocent dragons behind us. They deserve a better life just like us. So, we shouldn’t just do it for ourselves, but for everyone else as well.” Frost felt a smile creep onto his face as he listened to his own partner say this. He couldn’t believe they were making up such a plan like this. Were they going too far? He tossed those thoughts of his mind. Knowing full well that if Glacier won’t change, then someone needed to. 

“Okay…” Frost finally said, “But, how are we going to convince everyone that this is for the better good?” He asked, in which Powder paused and looked away. Letting his thoughts rush into his mind to think of a solution to the problem. 

“Maybe… We don’t kill Glacier directly, but rather seek our own independence.” He suggested, “That way, it doesn’t anger everyone and more acts like a peaceful arrangement from rebellious dragons. It might anger them, but it won’t be as impactful. Heck, we could even spread the idea into everyone’s heads about how much better our society is.” Frost nodded to this idea, liking the sound of it. “I know Glacier is horrible, but I don’t think people would side with us if we just up and killed her without reason.” Frost nodded, understanding what he meant by it. 

“I like that idea. Though, how are we going to do it without her knowing? Do we do it all in one night or over the course of several days? Make it less obvious?” He asked, which Powder glanced over to the bedroom door. Almost like he was double checking if nobody was nearby to hear them. He lowered his voice and got closer to him. He sat down beside him on the bed. 

“Well, let me ask you this. Do you want to stay here any longer? Do you think you can handle being here for another week? Or would you rather make moves now?” Powder asked, which forced Frost to start thinking to himself. Pondering what he wanted and if he could even handle more stressful days under Glacier’s constant nagging. Not only that, but he realized how much less impactful his plans could be if they plan this behind the scenes. What if somebody slipped up and revealed such plans to Glacier? They’d all be imprisoned and executed before the plan could even start. Which is why they needed to do this now while Glacier is asleep. 

“No. I think we should do it tonight.” Frost told him. Powder didn’t flinch or seem surprised by this. Instead, he seemed fully committed to the idea just like him. He nodded and stood back up to his claws, going over to his weapon stash. Frost watched him as he checked over his weapons and placed his helmet over his head. “What are you doing?” 

“If we should do it tonight, then we should gather everything we can and spread the word. We should maybe even tell civilians about it as well.” Powder told him, “Maybe get someone trustworthy on our side to watch over Glacier. Maybe make sure she doesn’t wake up during all of this.” Frost nodded, getting up to his claws and picking up his helmet. Equipping it to his head and watching as Powder strapped a spear to his other side, as well as a pouch of magical artifacts that he kept hidden in his closet. Frost and Powder made their way to the bedroom door and opened it. Upon stepping out, they were instantly greeted by Ken and Icel standing either side like the bodyguards they always were. 

“I thought you guys went to sleep already?” Frost asked, taken aback by their presence. 

“Oh um…” Ken tried to respond, but Powder interrupted him by changing the subject. 

“You two, do you feel dissatisfied by Queen Glacier’s ruling as queen?” Frost looked at them expectantly, already knowing the answer without them even admitting it. They’ve been by his side since he became their general for the entire army. 

“I mean, she’s quite bossy.” Ken exclaimed with a shrug. 

“When was the last time she said thank you?” Frost asked him, watching as Ken’s maw opened then closed. Having no clear answer to his question. “Exactly, do you think you’d be happier with me as leader or her?” 

“Are you leaving?” Icel asked, dropping the professional tone and turning to worry and slight panic. 

“Better, I’m thinking of rebelling with those who would prefer a better life. I’d love it if you guys would join me and Powder’s side.” Frost told him, watching their expressions shift a little before finally leaving with acceptance. 

“Well, you’ve always been generous to me sir. So, if I had to pick either you or her, I’d go with you.” Icel admitted, which Ken saluted with his wing. 

“Like we’ve told you this morning, we will always stick behind you.” Ken exclaimed, “Besides, I’m sick of that old hag.” Frost smiled, before taking a step back. Powder looked at each of them and nodded, a small grin forming on his snout. 

“We need to spread the word and gather everything we can.” Powder told them, “Maybe even take some of the magical artifacts too while we are at it. That way if Glacier sends forces, we can fend for ourselves more easily.” Icel and Ken nodded. 

“Tell anyone you trust the most about this. If it’s anyone you know that hates Glacier, tell them that we have a chance for a better life. We don’t have to stay here and wait for it to happen.” They exchanged a nod before rushing out of the hallway. Frost and Powder followed them before pausing as they nearly approached the throne room. Frost used a wing to stop Powder, forcing him to turn to face him. 

“One of us needs to watch Glacier.” Frost informed him, “Which one of us should that be?” Powder glanced over to the hallway that led to her room. Then he turned to face Frost, acceptance striking him. 

“I will.” He finally confirmed out loud, “You continue to spread the word. You are the face of this rebellion, more of our squadron will follow you given your rank.” Frost nodded, knowing how true that is. Powder was about to turn and head to Glacier’s chambers like he promised to do. However, Frost stopped him with his wing and pulled him closer. The two of them looked into each other’s eyes with not just passion, but genuine love. Then he leaned in and kissed him on the lips, ensuring that if this was the last they’d see each other, neither of them would forget it. 

When Frost pulled away from the kiss and met his gaze. He felt his cheeks blush as a small grin formed onto his snout. “I love you.” Powder caressed his digits against his cheek and smiled brightly. 

“I love you too, Frost. Don’t ever forget that.” Frost shook his head, showing him that he would never forget it. Then Frost released him, watching as Powder turned around and began to head to the queen’s chambers. When he vanished around the corner, Frost snapped back to reality and started to search around for other guards to persuade into his cause. He noticed that other guards were joining in as well. Likely due to Icel and Ken getting to them first. They were swift in their motion, sneaking around with precision as they gathered weapons and supplies from anywhere they could. 

Frost then remembered the dragonet in the dungeon. He quickly went over to Icel, who was busy talking to two other guards that Frost knew to be Gage and Flowstream. “Icel, I need you to find the parents of Jeramyl. His parents are Cansis and Dalton, do you think you can do that?” Icel was stunned, almost like he didn't know where to even start with such a command. Then Gage spoke up with an acknowledged expression. 

“Oh! I know them! My daughter goes to their school. I can help with that if you wish?” He suggested, while Flowstream remained silent. 

“I'll go with you. That way there's no hiccups.” Icel exclaimed, turning back to face Frost. Frost nodded, thanking them both. 

“I'll release the dragonet and whoever I find innocent enough to come with.” Then he dismissed himself as he went straight into the dungeon. Many of the cellmates have gone to sleep by now. The silence was eerie and unsettling, but Frost kept his head up and focused on the task at hand. He rushed past the other cells until he reached the one with the dragonet inside. Upon spotting him fast asleep beneath the flat bed. Almost like he was hiding from all of the other criminals. He unlocked the cage and stepped inside, making a slow approach to not startle the little one. When he was close enough, he lowered himself and whispered. “Hey… Jaramyl.” 

The dragonet poked his head up and met with his gaze. He flinched from the sight of him, but didn't scream as realization struck him. “M-Mister?” 

“It's me, yes. You're free, come on. Your parents should arrive soon to get you.” Jeramyl unfolded from the ball he formed beneath the flat bed. He crawled out from beneath and hugged Frost like he was his savior. He instantly started to cry on his scales, which Frost comforted with a gentle pat. He picked him up and allowed the little one to rest on his back. Then he began to make his leave. However, he soon paused when he noticed the young chef from earlier. He was in a cage with three other dragons, two of which were known for being robbers in the past. 

Frost went over to the cage and unlocked it. He noticed two of the Frigidians lift their heads up. One of them slowly stood up like they were ready to tussle. Frost approached the young dragon chef and nudged him. “Hey, wake up.” He lifted his head up and opened his eyes, before finally meeting his gaze. “You’re free, come on.” He nodded to the cage door. 

“W-What? Why?” He asked, his voice dry and weary. 

“Because… You don't deserve this. You can have a better life than here. Away from all this drama.” Frost suggested to him, watching as he lifted himself up to his claws. He was cautious yet surprised by the gesture. “That is, if you want to come with? Either way, you’re free.” 

“Are you sure?” He asked, “And what do you mean? What's happening?” He glanced at the dragonet on Frost’s back. Who by this point has fallen back to sleep. Exhausted little one.

“We’re creating a new life, away from this place. Where no tyrant can be over controlling and an awful leader.” He didn't know what to say, his maw slightly ajar like he wanted to say something. 

“Can I go too?” The criminal that was slowly walking towards him asked, his posture intimidating. Frost turned to him, feeling the dragonet on his back readjusting himself. He heard him make small scared noises which was expected given the circumstances before them. 

“No.” Frost told him flatly, then he turned back to the young chef before him. “Come on, whether you decide to go or not. I'm not letting you stay in here for a simple mistake.” He nodded nervously as Frost guided him out. He moved quickly in case the criminal tried to escape. It was a good thing he did as he slammed the cage shut. Startled as the Frigidian grabbed the bars forcefully and looked into his eyes angrily. The dragonet squeaked and hid behind Frost’s neck. 

“You’ll regret not letting me out.” The criminal growled through the bars. His eyes were full of rage and commitment to hurt him. After years of dealing with such foul criminals. I'll finally have a reset.

Frost smirked as he half turned away. “Too bad you won't ever get a taste of freedom again. Now Queen Glacier will crush this place down upon herself, along with you and the rest of you foul criminals. Enjoy living under a tyrant.” He remarked, then began to escort the young dragon chef out of the dungeon. The prisoner didn't say anything, only release the bars and watch as they departed from the room. The dungeon closed behind him and he was able to taste fresh air. No longer the disgusting smell of rust and odor from dragons all huddled together in a single room with no real ventilation. 

Ken was waiting for him in the throne room. Several other guards that honored and respected Frost were also in the room. However, it wasn't all of them that he knew of. Ken approached him whilst Frost set down the dragonet on the floor. The dragon chef stood off to the side nervously, uncertain of anything. “Hey, there's a problem. Some of the guards are resisting us. They claim we are traitors and need to stop what we are doing.”

“Who's tossing around such things?” Frost asked, not liking the sound of this news. 

“The younger recruits, the ones Glacier pulled into the military not too long ago.” Frost scoffed and shook his head in disgust. Younglings like them are naive and don't see the bigger picture. That's why they shouldn't have been drafted in. “And maybe one or two of my friends’ friends. They didn't like the idea and think it's a bit risky.” Frost understood those forms of complaints. He agrees heavily with how risky their game was. However, Frost has had enough and he needs to do this now or else there won't be another time like it. 

“I understand, we won't force anyone to join.” He told Ken, “We should start passing along any news to the civilians too. Tell them to meet us outside the eastern castle walls and wait there until an order is given.” Ken’s expression shifted to concern from the idea. However, he didn't protest and called some other guards to join him in the expedition. When they left, Frost decided to check on the stash of magical artifacts. Figuring that they should take them now while they still can. 

Frost found three guards walking down a hallway. They saluted him and paused in front of him. “General Frost, we’d like to help. Where can we start?” The one in the front asked. He recognized the one in front to be female Frigidian, a rare sight to see amongst the ranks. The two male Frigidians behind her were Drake and Kamile. 

“You can help by grabbing as many magical artifacts from the safe as you can. Use any means necessary to take it with you. When you are done, meet us outside the eastern walls.” Frost ordered them, which they nodded in response. They wasted no time rushing to the designated area. Thus leaving Frost with the final assignment, checking up on Powder. He rounded a corner and began hearing towards the corridor where Glacier’s bedroom was located. He didn't see Powder near the door, which only suspected him of being in the room itself. Oh boy, that's not good.

He made his way up to the door and carefully opened it. Ensuring that it didn't squeak loud enough to wake Glacier. He saw her still in a deep sleep, naked and exposed for anyone to see. He glanced around the room until he found Powder huddled in a corner. Almost like he was pretending not to be seen. His eyes glowed from the dim lighting of the moonlight shining through the window. Their gazes met and it took Powder a solid minute to notice who he was staring at. Slowly and cautiously, he began his move towards him, ensuring to not make a ruckus. 

When he reached him, he breathed a sigh of relief. “Is everything going okay?” Powder asked in a soft whisper, leaning closer to him. 

“Yes, I think it's almost time we leave too.” Frost told him, his smile growing across his snout. Feeling happy and relieved that they were nearly about to succeed in their plans. Almost free from this place. He told himself in his mind. “Are you ready?” 

Powder paused for a second, glancing over at Queen Glacier. Almost like he was contemplating if this was even a good idea. Then he turned back to face him, their eyes meeting each other’s. “If we go through with this, it will turn into a blood bath. She won't accept this, she’ll be beyond angry.” 

“I'm aware.” Frost told him in a whisper. “But like you said, killing her would only make things worse in the long run. Do you still want to live by that? I'm okay with killing her if you don't want to do it anymore. This will be our only chance to do so.” He suggested, waving a wing in her direction. His eyes shifting to the bed and the royal sleeping Frigidian on top. Powder stared at her longingly, unsure of what to say. 

He sighed with defeat, meeting his gaze again and slowly shaking his head. “Let's just go. It’ll be better being free with you beside me than suffering the consequences of this place.” He nodded and smiled, wrapping a wing around him and beginning their leave from the room. They slowly and cautiously closed the door behind them, then they proceeded onwards. When they arrived at the throne room, he was surprised to find the parents of Jeramyl as well. Frost and Powder descend down and land gracefully nearby. Icel glanced at them as they walked over. 

“I told them about what's going on, but they don't seem too set on the idea.” Icel informed them. Frost watched as Dalton and Cansis comforted and hugged their son. Full of relief on both of their expressions. Frost took a deep breath then approached them. 

Dalton was the first to spot him. “Thank you so much for letting him free without charges. We are so sorry for what occurred. We didn't know it would get that violent.” Despite Frost’s urge to ask if they were even present. Instead, he was more worried about their overall safety and Glacier’s reaction in the morning when she realized Jeramyl was gone. Would she throw them all into prison and execute them? No, I can't let that happen.

“I have a question, do you know what Glacier was going to do to him?” The parents both froze and paused, exchanging concerned glances. 

“No? Why? What was she going to do?” Dalton asked while Cansis picked Jeramyl up and placed him on her back. 

“She was going to execute him.” Frost told them, “I couldn't let that stand, so I'm doing this because I won't have a dragonet be killed simply due to a simple accident.” Dalton and Cansis exchange horrified looks at each other. 

“W-We had no idea!” Cansis exclaimed, her tone full of genuine concern. 

“We don't know what we’d do without you.” Dalton told him, his tone full of relief and gratitude. 

“I think you should come with us.” Powder chimed in, stepping over to Frost’s left side. “If Glacier finds out your son is gone, she will intensify the punishment to you two as well. Maybe even kill all three of you if she’s having a really bad day.” 

“Which is suspected to be all day tomorrow.” Frost told them, Powder nodding in approval. The parents looked mortified and stuck from those words. 

“C-Come with you?” Cansis asked, confused by the recommendation. “What do you mean? Where are you going?” 

Dalton glanced over to the trio of dragons from not long ago. The same ones that Frost had ordered to gather all of the magical artifacts from the safe. They carried two boxes full of artifacts, likely not even all of it considering the last time he checked that place. “What's going on? Is there a revolt going on?’ 

“You could say that.” Icel exclaimed from behind Frost’s shoulder. 

“We are taking anyone that is willing to join to a better place that won't contain Glacier’s toxic ruling.” Powder informed them, “With General Frost here in charge of the whole thing.” Dalton exchanged glances between the two of them. His maw slightly opened in shock, unable to let out a proper response. 

“I-I don't know what to say. We’d be giving up our house and everything we’ve built here.” Dalton said, uncertainty in his eyes as he thought about it. 

“Would you rather risk dying for an unfair decision, or live a safe and free life somewhere new? Which would be better for your family?” Frost asked, “Because I’d feel awful if you stayed and suffered the consequences regardless of what came to it. Because at the end of the day, it's unfair what she's doing.” 

Dalton remained silent for a long moment longer. Then he took a deep breath and sighed. “Okay, we’ll go.” 

“Dalton?” Cansis’ tone and call to him like she's double checking she heard him correctly. 

“It’s for the best of us. I'd rather live than be killed for a simple accident.” Dalton told her, which she didn't protest against. Jeramyl looked up at his mother confused. 

“Mom? What's going on?” Within seconds, she went in to comfort him. 

“We are going to a new home, honey. Safer for the three of us, okay?” Frost gestured to Icel to escort them to the designated area. Powder and Frost then turn to the throne room, noticing the absence of any guards or himself in their usual positions. It was off putting yet comforting to know he wasn't going to put up with anymore of Queen Glacier’s crap. He breathed out a long relieved and happy sigh. Then he nodded to Powder, telling him that he was ready to move on. The two of them left through the front castle doors. Where they proceeded to help the trio with moving the magical artifacts over the eastern castle walls. 

Upon looking over the snowy field before him. He saw a large gathering of not just civilians, but guards that swore to be by his side since the beginning. From what he counted, there were a total of two-hundred and sixty-eight of them. With civilian numbers counting near a thousand. Which in terms of civilians in Antarctic City, was only one-twenty-fifth of the total number. Regardless, the number of guards alone was more than enough. More than halving the total number of soldiers Glacier had. 

Frost and Powder landed in the snow, bringing down the crates full of magical artifacts. With an exchange of knowing looks and relieved expressions amongst civilians. It truly felt like things were going to go their way without complications. He looked around and counted everyone amongst the crowd. “Is that everyone?” He asked, loud enough for everyone to hear. 

“As many as I could get considering the time constraints.” Gage yelled back, saluting with his wing. Every other soldier did the same, almost like it was the final form of honor that they were sticking behind him, no matter what. Frost glanced over to Powder, who stood beside him. His heartwarming smile made his heart flutter with joy and excitement for the days ahead. Not only will we get to live a life together, but we’ll make a better one for all Frigidians! He couldn't help but grin from the thought. Then he turned forward and motioned for everyone to begin marching forth. 

“Alright everyone! Let's march forth until we meet the other side of Frigidia!” He declared, extending a wing out. The soldiers helped get the civilians moving, ensuring then that they were safe in their care. As Frost and Powder were about to lift up the crates full of magical artifacts. A voice shouted amongst the walls of Antarctic City. 

“Don't you dare leave!” Frost cocked his head around to find Queen Glacier in full armor. Unlike any other soldier’s armor, Glacier’s armor was colored dark purple with much stronger padding around the more sensitive limbs on her body. The guards that refused to join their cause, the other half of her forces appeared over the walls. All fully equipped and ready for battle. A rare few had magical artifacts in their grasps. However, Frost could only count a total of five from where he stood. “You’re not going anywhere! I demand that you return this instant, or there will be severe consequences to follow!” Glacier growled, stepping forth with a form of radiation depicting power and determination throughout her posture and facial expression. 

Before Frost knew it, the guards began their descent upon them. Although, they didn’t start fighting, only formed a line like they were ready to battle to the death. Frost remained still, watching them with a careful glare. There were only eighty soldiers here, likely more held up back in Antarctic City’s borders. “You think you can just leave, just like that? Without at least me knowing about it??” Glacier spat, anger pouring out with every word. “Traitors such as yourselves deserve hefty punishment. I will not let this go!” 

Frost glanced over his shoulder to some of his lower ranked comrades. Despite them being not as well trained as himself and his closer companions. They didn’t appear to be scared in the slightest by the armed forces approaching them. However, Frost knew that it would be best to get the civilians away before any fighting could begin. He slowly stepped back until he was beside a soldier that outranked half of their current squadron on the field. He recognized him to be Captain Kurtis, a well trained officer who never wanted to go beyond his current rank. “Kurtis, I’m going to put you in charge to escort the civilians as far east as you can. Anybody below you will follow.” Kurtis saluted him with a wing. “And Powder will go with you as well.” 

Powder’s ears perked up when he heard his name being mentioned. He flipped his body around to face Frost. “What? I’m not going anywhere.” 

“I don’t want you to get hurt. It would pain me to see-” He was cut off as Powder grew more insistent, waving his concern off. 

“Frost, I’m not leaving. I swore to be beside you and that’s final.” He then gestured for Kurtis to proceed with the orders that Frost gave him. Kurtis gave one final salute before commanding orders to the other lower ranks and the civilians. Frost stared at Powder, not liking the fact that he wasn’t willing to leave to safety. Although, he didn’t try to protest as he walked back to his side. “I’m in this position because I put the upmost loyalty and honor to you. Don’t tarnish that simply because I love you.” Frost’s ear caught small chatter amongst the other guards still present. Clearly shocked by the revelation that the two of them were dating. Frost didn’t mope about it, he kept his head straight as Glacier continued her approach with the other soldiers behind her. 

“When we are done with you, we will make sure all of your followers are sentenced to execution for treason!” Glacier shouted before motioning for her soldiers to begin marching forth. As soon as they did, Frost felt Powder put something into his paw. He glanced down, confused by what he had given him. He opened his paw to find a magical bracelet in his palm. He glanced up at Powder curiously, who simply returned a small smile. 

“Just as a precaution if all else fails.” Frost didn’t know what that could mean. Though, he didn’t get much time to dwell on it as Glacier’s forces reached them. Frost and the rest of them pulled out their chosen weapons and began their defense. Despite the younger soldier forces presented before them, they still gave a challenge for Frost and the rest of his companions. 

As the battle raged on, he shouted one final command to his followers. “If anyone surrenders, do not kill them! We will not become like Queen Glacier!” He heard many of them exchange their acknowledgement of his demands. None of them shared any rejection of the idea. Which only intensified the idea that they were committing to the end. Frost fought three goons with mere succession, with only small setbacks by their unpredictable fighting nature. Thankfully, he managed to knock two of them out and kill one. For as much as he didn’t want to, he had no choice in the matter. He had to remind himself that it was in self defense, not cold blooded murder. Which is when Queen Glacier stepped forth, her eyes firmly locked on Frost like she’s been anticipating this the whole time.

Frost took a moment to breathe, giving himself a chance to recoup after the fight. Glacier, barely lifting a digit the whole time. Pulled out a sword from her sheath and held it out towards him. “You were always useless, now it’s time for me to prove that!” Glacier snarled, a smirk forming on her snout. Frost didn’t reply, he simply snuck on the bracelet around his tail and held out his own sword. Which was now covered in scrapes from iron bladed contact. Then Queen Glacier pushed herself off the ground, extending her wings to gain a height advantage. She let out a breath of ice down upon him. He dodged and released his own, letting them collide together. Then he was stunned when Glacier collided with him. She swung the sword down upon his neck, but he reacted in time to block it with his own. Then he pushed her off with his back legs before swinging towards her. She backed away and let her own sword clang against his own. She growled through her teeth as she leaned in towards his face. “You might be the best fighter I’ve ever known, but I’m the queen! So, I’m superior!” 

She bashed her chestplate against him, causing him to be pushed away. She lifted off into the air, only hovering slightly above the ground. She swung rapidly towards him, forcing him to block as fast as he could. Until finally, she managed to knock his sword out of his claw. She then pointed his sword at him, aiming straight to the neck. She landed softly on the snow whilst keeping it steady. “Surrender! You puny little wretches will not survive without me! Mark my words, you will all die from my own claws if I have to! Traitorous pigs!” 

Remembering the words of Powder from moments ago. He remembered the bracelet wrapped around his tail. He took a deep breath and let out a sigh to keep himself calm. “Only problem with that statement, my ex-majesty. I don’t need a sword to still win!” Within a matter of seconds, clouds began to form above. Thunder and lightning were already erupting from the sky above. Glacier looked up, confused by the sudden change in weather. Then a lightning bolt struck beside them, causing an explosion and causing them both to fly over to their sides. Nearly unconscious as they lay in the snow. Powder and other guards nearby were quick to help Frost up to his claws. 

“We should go!” Powder demanded, pulling out his spear from his side. He tossed it at the other guards on Glacier’s side. They backed away as soon as it struck the ground. As well as other guards on Frost’s side backing them away with their own weapons. Frost barely saw Glacier being assisted up to her paws as the storm clouds started to disperse. Frost and other loyal followers behind him began to make a run for it. Thankfully, the crates that they took with were already taken away by the other half of his squadron. Which meant now, they just needed to get to the other side of Frigidia. As they began to lift off into the sky. Frost truly thought that they had gotten away with it. Then suddenly as he was turning to exchange a smile with Powder. The same spear that Powder used was tossed right back at him. He impaled him from behind, striking him through the chest. 

“POWDER!” Frost wasted no time flying after him as he fell out of the sky. He nearly saw the concerned looks of other guards look back, realizing the situation. Powder impacted the snow below, crimson liquid already splattered onto the white powder around the impact. Frost landed beside him, rushing to his aid. “Powder, no, no, no! Get up soldier!” He demanded, trying to pull him up to his paws. However, blood was already beginning to pour out of his maw. His eyes droopy, legs weak, and his body flopping over like he was mere seconds away from passing out. “Powder, don’t you dare give up on me. I’m not leaving you here to die like this!” 

“F-Frost… I…” Powder tried to speak, but Frost wasn’t having it. 

“Don’t say anything, you are coming with me whether you like it or not.” Frost exclaimed, feeling the rumble of his other loyal companions landing nearby. They wasted no time rushing over, already with a set plan to escort Powder. Who simply looked into Frost’s glazed over eyes, nearly about to cry. 

“Frost, you’re going to need to hold up his front side, we’ll take the back and middle.” Icel suggested, already picking up Powder’s limbs in the back. Frost nodded, about to do as they said. Powder stopped him with a paw over his muzzle. He looked into his eyes and held his paw with his own. 

“Powder, don’t move, it’ll be okay.” He assured him, tears falling down his cheeks. “We can get you back to full health, I promise.” 

Powder shook his head, his eyes even more droopy than before. “No… No… Don’t waste your energy on me. Y-You deserve to be the better king here.” 

“Powder, don't dismiss yourself! You are part of my squad and I refuse to live a better life without you!” Frost exclaimed, leaning in closer to him. His tone lowered as his forehead made contact with his. He noticed that Icel and the others had stopped what they were doing. Almost like they already knew it was too late. “It was meant for us too… For us to be happy… Please… Don’t go… I love you…”

Powder managed to form a smile on his snout, closing his eyes as they let each other’s foreheads touch each other. Frost didn’t hold back anymore, he let his tears flood out and all his emotions burst out at once. “K-Keep them safe…” Powder muttered silently for him to hear. “Be better than Glacier for me… Okay?” Powder told him, like it was his final words of wisdom. 

Frost nodded his head, continuing to let the tears fall out of his eyes. “I will… I promise.” Powder’s body then went limp, almost like his words were content for him to hear to let go. Frost watched in horror, realization striking him like the hardest blow to his heart. He lifted his head up to the skies and roared as loudly as he could into the heavens. Hoping that Thana, Leafless, or any of the twelve gods could hear him amongst their slumber. As per usual, they didn’t respond to his cries. He held onto Powder in a tight grip, not wanting to let him go. Although, Icel was quick to nudge him to start moving. 

“Sir, we should go.” He told him, shaking his shoulder with his paw. 

“Don’t bother.” Glacier’s voice was heard in front of them. Frost lifted his head up, despite the tears eyes, he could see her approaching with a smug grin. She glanced down at Powder, before settling her gaze on Frost. Icel and the other three quickly got in front, their weapons drawn and ready to fight if needed. “A pathetic traitor like him was supposed to die. Don’t be so heartbroken. You are all traitors after all. It’s almost comical that none of you realize the hypocrisy here.” She remarked as a scowl formed on her snout. 

“Don’t get any closer! We won’t hesitate to kill you if you try to fight!” Icel commanded at Glacier. 

“You would love for that to be the case, wouldn’t you?” She scoffed, “Ignorant ice picks such as yourselves deserve worse than death.” Frost let go of Powder’s corpse and started to stand up. Disregarding the blood that was still on his scales. He passed Icel and the others, a death glare exchanging with Glacier. Not only did his heart feel numb, but he felt like he had nothing else to his name. He had nothing left to lose and he was about done with it all. 

“I’ll take care of her. Take Powder’s body to the camp.” Glacier tilted her head curiously, watching him stop a few meters away. 

“Don’t be ridiculous, you really want to fight again? Are you that desperate?” She laughed to herself, finding this amusing. “No wonder everyone else follows you. They think you are some sort of heroic model. Well, I think they were brainwashed.” She smirked as she glanced at his lack of weapons. His sword is still missing after being tossed out of his grip from before. “You don’t even have a weapon.” 

Frost glared at her for what felt like half an hour. His eye twitching as boiled up anger and guilt washed over him. “I don’t need one…” The dark clouds began to envelop the landscape. Unlike a small pouch from the tiny battle near Antarctic City. This time, the clouds encased the entire Frigidian landscape beneath the dark roaring clouds. Thunder and cackling of lighting was heard from above. Glacier’s smirk faltered slightly, almost about to grow concerned by the scene developing in front of her. 

Then it returned as Glacier held out a single ring in between two digits of her own. “If you want to play the magic game, then let’s play fire with fire. I took this from one of my guards, so maybe it’ll come in handy.” She slipped the ring over one of her digits. Then she went into a defensive posture, glaring daggers at Frost. That’s when five magical shields formed in front of her. This didn’t seem to make her lose confidence though as she rushed forward. Frost gestured his claw down upon her. Another eruption of thunder from above occurred before lightning flashed down upon her. However, she reacted in time with a shield to block the lightning strike. Showing no visible harm to her body as she continued. She managed to knock him over, tackling him as she dug her claws into him. Frost growled as he bit down as hard as he could into her neck. She roared loudly in pain as blood poured out from his teeth marks. Then he tossed her off of him. 

I don’t know if this will work, but let’s try it out. He took a deep breath, before motioning up at the sky with his wings. More lightning shot down upon him, but they didn’t hurt him in the slightest. Instead, they wrapped around his wings before he flapped them in her direction. Making the strike of electricity even more powerful than before. While Glacier was regaining her composure. She barely managed to combine all five shields into one large one. From the impact, a shockwave erupted and she blasted away from him. Rolling across the snowy field before finally stopping herself. Frost looked at himself and felt empowered after the attack. When Glacier slowly began to lift herself up. Frost repeated the same motion with his wings. Then he pushed himself forward, causing himself to fly at immense speeds beyond comprehension. 

His motion stopped as he was above her. She looked up and created a smaller flat shield in front of her. He let the electricity from his wings flow into his fist. Letting him punch straight through the shield, shattering it before landing a blow into her face. Already breaking her snout, causing blood to leak out. She coughed and groaned in pain from the blow. However, Frost didn’t stop there as he continued with a few more until the electricity he absorbed was no more. He used his claws to start striking her chest and face with all his might. He roared and growled with immense anger and hatred for her. “I want you dead!” YOU KILLED MY BOYFRIEND! Not wanting to blurt the last part out too loud in case anyone nearby heard him. Blood was pouring from various wounds on her body. As he was about to make another attack. She managed to push him off by tossing her body around. 

She attempted to stand up and flee. Frost stopped her by gripping her hind legs with his claws. “Like you said, don’t leave! Stay and fight you pathetic, murderous, tyrant bitch!” Glacier kicked him with her hind leg. He nearly let go, but held firm as he pushed her down onto her side. He climbed on top of her, looking down at her like she was his prey. “Doesn’t feel so good now, does it?! Being so fucking powerless?!” Before he could land his final attacks upon her. A voice chimed into the air, making him pause. He turned to find Ken and Icel walking over with horrified looks on their faces. 

“Frost, stop!” icel and Ken rushed over and pulled him off of her. Although, not without Frost fighting back in hopes to land more scratches upon her. “Let me have her! Let me go!” They successfully pulled him off and away from Glacier as some of her servants arrived to assist her. They helped her stand up to her claws, barely able to walk due to her injuries. From the anger that had enveloped him, regret and sadness washed over him. Remembering the words that Powder told him not too long ago. To not only be a better king, but a reminder between them both to not kill Glacier. He was close to doing so. He couldn’t figure out if he would’ve preferred it that way after what she did. He lost control, but he didn’t care. 

As Icel and Ken began to escort him away. Glacier turned back towards him from afar. With the remaining strength and energy that she had, she opened her maw and shouted as loud as she could. “You started this!” She insisted with urgency, “By the end of it all, I will claim what sense of right is needed! Starting today, a civil war shall emerge, bloodshed shall fall from both sides until one of us is dead! If it takes us fifty years, a hundred. So fucking be it you twig ass traitor! When I’m done, I’ll make sure your head is on a pedestal for all to see! So don’t ever bother coming back!” Frost didn’t respond, he flipped his body and head around. Beginning to follow Icel and Ken through the now fully developed storm above them. Which was now ravaging the landscape with snow, thunder and lightning. Whether it was because of his emotions or not, it ceased to end the whole time. 

However, Frost didn’t mind as he considered it a sense of the new age upon them. The beginning of a dark era for years to come. All because Frost and his now lost partner, decided to risk everyone to be free and safe from tyranny. One thing was certain, Frost wasn’t going to back down now. He was going to see this through. If one of them needed to die, then so be it. When Frost arrived at the new settlement that they were going to call home. Frost looked around amongst the distraught civilians and soldiers. All of whom were already beginning to create new houses to live in. Using a combination of ice and other materials that they’ve brought with them to assemble temporary housing. Frost tuned everything out as he made his way past everyone. He spotted Jeramyl and his parents working together to make their new home. 

Frost felt doubtful and guilty about all of this. I took these dragons from their homes, started a war that’ll probably never end. Risked their lives all for the hopes of safety. Yet, here I am with a partner that I loved dearly that’s no longer here. He felt tears already forming in his eyes as he stood there. What the hell am I supposed to do? I can’t do this alone. This was only possible because Powder gave me the courage and strength to do it. Yet as he looked amongst the distraught civilians and guards that refused to leave their post. Even after the fight of their lives to get them here. He wondered if he really did make the best call for everyone present. Powder and himself both knew the challenges of getting them here. Despite Powder’s sacrifice, they successfully left Antarctic City. Whatever that means for the upcoming years, Frost was leaving that to speculation and for his future self to figure out. 

Some of the guards managed to assemble a tent for Frost during the time he was fighting. Ken and Icel led him over, standing outside as Frost crawled inside. Upon seeing the second pillow beneath the blanket. He held up a paw to his snout and nearly cried again. He sat down and thought long and hard about their current situation. I shouldn’t give up now. Powder wouldn’t accept that. As he was regaining his composure, Icel’s voice was heard from the entrance of the tent. “Um, Frost sir.” He turned until he met with his gaze. Ken crouched down beside him until they were on the same eye level as each other. “I-I just wanted to say…” He paused, then continued. “I’m sorry about your loss sir.” 

“Y-Your majesty, um…Oh, sorry um… I meant to say, general Fr-” Frost spoke up, interrupting him before he could finish. 

“Your majesty is fine.” He assured him. “Remember, Glacier isn’t here.” 

“Right, my apologies.” Ken exclaimed apologetically, clearing his throat. “I was just meaning to ask, any orders you wish to give? Or should we just set up camp for tonight?” Frost debated in his head for a long moment. Thinking about how Glacier most likely will be preparing a plan to attack them soon. Which meant that they were going to need to prepare for a defensive plan as well. 

“Just keep a look out.” Frost told them, “She’ll be back. When she does, we’ll be ready for her. Keep the civilians safe and check up on them whenever you can.” Frost remembered the words of Powder again. Which was now living in his head rent free. Be the better king. He took a deep breath, glancing over at the pillow and the empty spot that Powder was meant to lay in. “Our job is to be better than Queen Glacier. If they need absolutely anything, make sure to give them it. If you are confused about something, then ask me, okay?” Icel and Ken’s expressions showed that they were completely content with such demands. “I’m going to get some sleep. Keep some soldiers on alert, then we’ll switch them out. I’ll start working on some proper plans in the morning.” They nodded and made their farewells, before leaving him alone to sleep. 

Frost went over to his pillow and lied down. He took the other pillow and held it tightly in his claws and arms. He closed his eyes as he let his forehead rest against the secondary pillow. Almost treating it like a replacement for Powder’s missing presence. He sobbed and cried as he lay there. Nobody outside tried to check up on him. Already knowing the reason behind his sadness. Eventually, he fell asleep amongst the tears and sobs. The temptation of warmth of Powder’s presence in his grasp was replaced with horrified memories of Powder’s death. Reliving the memory like it just happened. He didn’t know if he could live up to Powder’s expectations. However, he wasn’t going to back down after tonight. He was going to keep moving forward until he achieved peace and freedom from tyranny. No matter the cost that might lead him there. 

Avidan Glaze

(20993: 15 years before Book 8)

Avidan awoke to a new day of the same boring atrocities. She breathed out an annoyed sigh as she rolled over to her side. Her eyes opened whilst looking around the room. She saw a dimly lit room with all of her usual furniture. The mirror and dresser with all of her jewelry that she never wore. A few neatly folded clothing that she only put on if her mother insisted on it. She never did when it was on her own terms. Glacier didn't like that in the slightest, but she stopped trying after a kingdom wide festival took place and Avidan went naked. Always refusing to put something on, despite it not actually being required. 

The only thing that she wore was earrings from time to time. Which held the memory of the day her father even slightly cared about her existence. Despite him leaving after hearing of the news from Glacier. He up and dipped, not wanting to endure the consequences of his actions. She barely ever heard the story from her mother nowadays. The only time she was able to remember that day was from a single conversation that Glacier had. Which she only gave because Avidan was desperate and growing older. 

From what she remembered, her father was a servant of hers. Often helping her in cleaning her room or helping with makeup. She ended up drunk one night and slept with him. Which would eventually result in Avidan’s hatching. The servant was distraught and Glacier was adamant that he became king of Antarctic Kingdom. Her father regretting everything and the responsibilities that were being forced upon. Ended up leaving altogether, vanishing from their lives. But not without sending a secret gift to Glacier meant for Avidan when she was the right age. 

Glacier passed down the gift to her when she was eight years old. On her hatching day, Avidan opened up the box and found the earrings within. They represented a dragon egg, which was almost symbolic considering he never got to see her hatch or grow up. A few months later, Avidan asked for the story and the rest is history. With no father and a neglectful mother, who appeared to be blaming her for her father leaving. Avidan decided to bury herself in books, fiction and fairytales from the past. All of which included the twelve gods in one way or another. While others focused on worlds beyond their comprehension. 

Her tutors, a male and a female Frigidian, both experts in the basic fields. The male Frigidian well knowledgeable in math and science. While the other focused on language arts, writing and occasionally art. They both tried to bring upon a resemblance of normal into Avidan’s life. However, it never changed the fact that Avidan was supposed to be the heir of her mother. Meant to take the crown when she deceased. However, it's hard to grasp this fact when Avidan knew she was only a hatchling. If she passed away tomorrow, what was she supposed to do in such a field? She had no experience in running a kingdom. It terrified her. 

Avidan went over to her mirror and desk, taking a good long look at herself. She saw the design of the mirror and desk. All entirely girly in appearance due to her mother’s constant insistence to act like one. Avidan rolled her eyes every time her mother brought it up. I'm going to be the dragonet that I want to be. Not what you want. When she was only three, she nearly started to become like Glacier. Entitlement and always whining about everything around her. It was all thanks to the tutors for keeping her in check and teaching her from right and wrong. They were the closest to being real parents than Glacier and her missing father. 

Avidan saw the sags beneath her eyes. The exhaustion and desperation to escape the boring, uninteresting life that presented her each and every day. I want to do something different, something exciting. Her eyes shifted to the window, the same one that shielded her from the storm outside. Something that many guards and even Glacier herself have admitted beforehand. That the storm felt like Skyro was angry at them from her slumber. Which Avidan could see considering there was a civil war going on beyond the castle walls. 

While Avidan didn't know the full details of the war. Glacier mostly kept the information away from Avidan due to her young age. Avidan was able to hear bits and pieces from guards around her. All of whom were involved in the conflict itself. Some have expressed their opinions, many on the side of Glacier. Then there was a smaller portion that was on the side of Frost. As the days went by and war continued. She noticed the same guards supporting the other side slowly vanishing with no real reason why. 

That's not all, Avidan has also started to notice civilians amongst Antarctic City were also packing their stuff and leaving. All of whom fled to Delbaire, which was also known as Frost’s kingdom. The battles that Avidan heard about always seemed to have the same outcome. A Stalemate. Neither side managed to achieve anything in the war effort. That was the most she heard about, otherwise it was gossip about other guards and their loyalty to the throne. Avidan never spoke up or asked for more. She didn't want to get involved in the mess of her mother’s actions. 

Avidan left her room after a few minutes. The guard that was stationed right outside her door glanced over as soon as she stepped out. She recognized him as Gavin, a straightforward soldier looking to keep the peace. “G'Morning princess.” He said in an enthusiastic tone, nearly trying to bring up her spirits. Almost like he wanted to make her feel special and noticed. She didn't need that treatment, it was beyond his responsibility to do. The only one that should do that is my mom, not a guard.

“Morning, I’m presuming breakfast will be served soon? I'm quite starving.” Avidan suggested as the two of them began their descent down the hall. 

“Yes, your majesty. I will wake the chefs for you.” Gavin said in his spiritual tone, still trying to act like a pleasant servant to her. Why can't my mom treat me with this kind of respect? She snorted out some chilly air through her nostrils. Noticing the breath fog emanating into the air. The two of them arrived at the kitchen where it remained still and quiet. Like it usually was whenever it was too early. “I will be back with the chefs.” He politely informed her, before turning and leaving her alone in the dining room. 

Avidan sat down at the table in her usual spot. A chair next to her mother’s, which looked to have been custom made. The chair looked to be nearly hundreds in silver coins worth. Which would be more than enough to fulfill over a dozen dragonets education. She scoffed at the sight of it, turning her attention away to the walls and windows around her. Where she also saw paintings and vases in display in front of each window. A small dark green bushy tree protruding from each of the vases. Each of which Avidan knew to only be capable of growing in Frigidia. 

She breathed out a sigh, noticing the steam again. To many Frigidians, including residents of Antarctic, they knew that since the storms raged 15 years ago. It has become significantly more cold than it should be. Not like it was bad for Frigidians, but that did make it lethal for other races to live here for long periods. It's gotten so bad that tribes like Stellaris and Oceana created special suits to survive the harsh conditions. Not like they were even allowed to come here anyways. Since the civil war began, Glacier banned all other races from entering Frigidia’s borders and the war itself. Avidan hated that, but what was she going to do? It's not like all of Avidan’s previous attempts in engaging would magically disappear and she’ll be willing to compromise now. 

Avidan waited patiently at the dining room table. She glanced around at the decorations and the chandelier hanging from the ceiling above. The only noise she heard was either the wind bumping against the windows and walls outside, the flames within the lanterns and candles in the chandelier, or her own heartbeat and breathing. Then a door opened, forcing her attention to the kitchen. A door opened, revealing chefs walking out from the other room. Gavin followed them out and began to keep a close eye on them. I highly doubt anyone would want to kill a helpless princess dragonet that didn’t do anything. She thought before shrugging it off, considering it just Glacier’s over paranoia. 

The chefs eventually finished less than half an hour later. They rushed over with two plates, one with pancakes with blueberries on top, as well as syrup poured on top. Next was the eggs, bacon and an egg sandwich. It almost felt like the chefs couldn't figure out what could fill her up, so they just went with all of it. She thanked them whilst Gavin dismissed them and stepped over to her side. Acting like a security guard who didn't want to leave her out of his sight. Too bad mother doesn't do the same. She just forgets that I exist.

Avidan dug into her breakfast, barely looking up from her plates. It was as if she was hiding from anybody that could be peaking in. Was it shyness? Or the fear that her mother was secretly watching her from the shadows? Regardless, she wanted to keep to herself. The meal was delicious and Avidan asked for some napkins from Gavin. He complied and rushed to go grab some from the kitchen. She glanced over to find the chefs huddled together, whispering amongst each other. It was like they were conspiring and gossiping about something beyond her hearing capacity. 

Gavin raised his voice at them. Yelling at them to get back to work and to stop being lazy. Even informing them that Glacier will be waking up soon. The chefs wasted no time going back to cooking. Cleaning up after themselves before grabbing ingredients and supplies for the next meal to prepare. Avidan looked away as soon as Gavin returned with the napkins. She felt horrible for the treatment of the chefs. Although, she also didn't know anything about the expectations of jobs and what it meant to be ruler. Yet, she still couldn't help but wonder if Gavin went too far with such demands. 

When Avidan finally finished with her meal. She wiped her face and claws despite the sticky residue of the syrup. Gavin provided her with a glass of water. He stepped back behind her to continue serving as the bodyguard. As she took a sip from the water and tried using it to wipe the syrup from her scales. Another guard showed up into the room alongside Queen Glacier. Avidan nearly froze upon seeing her mother in an exhausted state. 

The other guard escorting Glacier, Avidan recognized him as a newer recruit. Barely crossed adulthood of twenty, was a male Frigidian named Frissure. At this point, barely any of the guards appeared to be in their mid years or older. Even the ones that have worked since before Avidan hatched, were still barely crossing their forties. Avidan knew that it was heavily due to the civil war, but there wasn't a single one at least fifty or sixty? 

Avidan avoided the gaze of Frissure and Glacier. Although, she couldn't resist herself to glance Frissure’s way. Something about him screamed a trustworthy guard amongst any other. It could be the fact that despite his age, he's managed to beat more than most of the other recruits in training. That not only screamed that he had skills, but also told her that he had something going for him. One of them likely being the fact that in nearly every discussion, he seemed more mature than the others. 

She glanced over her shoulder at Gavin. Someone who tried way too hard to keep her spirits up and pretend like nothing was happening. She couldn't tell if she just preferred someone with more sternness or she was just bored of Gavin’s attitude. She kept her head low whilst Gavin and Frissure entered a discussion. She couldn't quite hear it from where she sat. Although, she knew that it had to entail either to Glacier or the war itself. When the two of them were finished, Fissure stepped away and watched Glacier as she sat down at the table. Avidan watched in the corner of her eye as she set down her rump in the custom made chair. Which Avidan was still disgusted with. 

It was heartbreaking to realize that not once had Glacier said goodmorning to her. She’s been sitting here the whole time and Glacier barely glanced her way. Eventually, Gavin went over and picked up the plates that Avidan finished and began to take it back to the kitchen to clean up. She left her chair and scooted it back under the table. She looked up at her mother, who was hunched over with her arms sprawled across the top of the table. She never glanced her way, nor did she even mutter anything in her direction. All Avidan saw was exhaustion and built up annoyance. When Glacier refused to say anything about Avidan’s staring, she breathed out a sigh and began her leave from the room. Satisfied that she was able to eat without any issues. 

She managed to sneak in one last glance at Frissure before she departed. He stood like a statue, his head and eyes remained forward, his sword neatly tucked away in the sheath along his right side. Ready to be pulled out at any moment’s notice. As Avidan walked out into the hallway with Gavin right behind her. He didn’t delay opening his maw once they were out of ear shot. “So, where off to next, princess? Your room?” 

She scoffed, Like I’d want to lay in my room for hours on end, heck no! Since it was the weekend, she didn’t need to worry about the tutors until Monday. She considered that it would be best for her to go to the library and read more books. It would be nice to get some peace and quiet to herself. Not having to worry about all of the drama and gossip lingering in the air. “Take me to the library actually, I want to spend some quality time alone.” She half commanded, half asked, almost ready to feel the comfort of such an environment.

Gavin nodded and escorted her through the halls until they arrived at the kingdom’s main library. Shelves containing hundreds of books, reaching several meters high. Her eyes beamed at the sight of such a beauty before her. She bolted towards the shelves that contained a set of fictional books that she’s been eyeing for the whole week. Avidan already finished her previous line of books, so she was ready to tackle the next pack. She searched through each of them until she found the ones she wanted to read. After grabbing the ones she wanted to read, she darted over to a corner where she could start reading. This corner already had a soft chair made of feathers meant for her to lay in. She set down the books on the side, then picked up the first one. She got comfortable within the chair before flipping to the first page.

As the hours passed as she read through the book. She eventually ended up passing out from either boredom or the soft chair she lied in enveloping her. It wouldn’t be long until she was awoken by shouting from a nearby hallway. Her body jumped from the yelling, licking her lips and rubbing her eyes as she lifted her head. Her head turned in the direction of where it was coming from. From where Avidan lied, she could only see more shelving and a wall. She peeked down at her book and snapped it shut. After placing it on the pile of other books, she stretched her limbs and wings. Avidan sprung up to all fours and began to make her way towards the noise. Although, not before checking that Gavin wasn’t still observing her. If he’s been watching me while I sleep, I’m going to shove that snout somewhere unpleasant.

Thankfully, she was in the clear. With nobody around to watch her, she rounded the corner and headed down the hallway. The shouting at this point stopped, but she knew exactly where it must’ve originated. Upon arriving at the room, she kept herself in the shadows as she tiptoped forward. She reached the throne room on the second floor. She remained in the shadows as she raised her head up to look over the railing. Down below, Glacier sat on her throne with several other Frigidian residents standing before her. Two Frigidians in particular piqued Avidan’s interest as they were walking out from the way they came. From what Avidan could see, they were crying and appeared distraught. Almost like a child being lectured from a parental figure. 

The realization struck her harder than she realized. Yes, I know exactly how that feels because I’m the freaking dragonet here! She growled at her inner self. Rolling her eyes at the irony and continued to watch the scene unfold. A male Frigidian stepped forth next and was talking softly to Glacier. It was too quiet for Avidan to hear. She perked her ear up and leaned forward. Then she lifted herself up with her hind legs and nearly leaned over the railings. None of the dragons nor guards seemed to have realized her presence. However, that didn’t exclude the ones on the second floor with her. As soon as Glacier was about to respond to the male Frigidian. One of the guards, which Avidan recognized to be Frissure from earlier, raised his voice at her. “Hey! What are you doing out here, little lady? You are too young for this.” 

Shoot. Avidan hastily turned and began to run back down the hallway she came from. Thanks to the gods Frissure didn’t chase after her. She arrived back to the library, panting heavily from the sprint. Goodness, that was close. She breathed out a sigh of relief. Then her confidence was ruined as Gavin appeared right behind her. He picked her up from the tail, holding her upside down in front of him. “What do you think you’re doing wandering around without me noticing?” His tone now full of disappointment. Like a father who wasn’t entirely angry, just ashamed of himself for letting something foolish happen. 

“Let go of my tail you leatherwing fool. That’s no way to hold a dragonet!” She called back. 

Within seconds, another voice was heard from behind Gavin. “She’s right, release her.” Avidan’s ears perked up from the familiar voice. As ordered, Gavin released her, letting her plop back down on all fours. She puffed steam out of her nostrils as she glared back at him. Behind Gavin was Frissure, looking unamused as his eyes remained locked with Gavin. He didn’t skip a beat as he went for the killer question. “I thought you were keeping an eye on her?” 

“I was!” Gavin replied, his tail now sagging like a puppy caught. “She fell asleep and-” He was about to finish, but Frissure chimed in. 

“Regardless, you can’t just let a dragonet like herself wander around aimlessly. She could end up getting seriously hurt.” Frissure reminded him, exchanging a small look of pity towards Avidan. Gavin, now humiliated, sunk into himself and didn’t reply. Frissure eventually breathed out a defeated sigh, running a claw over his face. “Look, how about we swap places? Just so Glacier doesn’t complain to us if something bad happens.” 

Ooh, this will be interesting. Avidan admitted, smirking smugly as she watched Gavin nod. Then he began to depart from the room, leaving Avidan alone with Frissure. He soon turned to her, his expression still full of sternness. He glanced over her shoulder at the books and the cushion chair she lay upon moments ago. He raised an eyebrow as he met with her eyes. “Your majesty…” He bowed, then waved a wing in the direction of her spot. “What have you been reading? Something fun?” His tone had shifted to cutesy and gentle. 

“You don’t need to treat me like I’m still six.” Avidan snorted back, huffing out more steam as she half turned away. “It’s completely unnecessary.” She mumbled, yet loud enough for him to still hear. 

In that instant, Frissure raised a claw to his maw and cleared his throat. His tune changed back to his serious attitude. “If that’s the case, then it’ll save me energy.” Avidan couldn’t help but smirk again from the honesty. I like that, it shows character. “What books are you reading?” He asked again, this time sounding like a mature adult being curious. 

“Some fantasy books.” She mentioned, walking back over to her spot while Frissure followed her. He didn’t get too close, but far enough to not make Avidan too uncomfortable. “A new series that I’ve been wanting to read all week.” She picked up the book she was reading before she fell asleep. Frissure stepped over and took it from her claws to check for himself. He read the title and his eyes widened after realizing what it was. 

“The Hearts of Golden?” A disbelief repeat of words from his own lips escaped. “You are reading an adult book?” He held out the book as his eyes fell down on her. He was mere moments from scolding her. 

“It’s not an adult book!” She shot back, her voice slightly rising. “It’s teenager plus, so it’s fine!” She swiped it out of his claws before he could react and placed it down into the pile. “And besides, my teacher’s son reads it too. It’s not hurting anyone.” 

“For how old you are now, I don’t think a book like that is very appropriate for your age.” Frissure added, giving her a disapproving look. “Have you been reading other books like these ones?” He began to look around the library. Like he was doing a double take on the other themes and genres littering the shelves. 

“Only since the last series I read last week.” Avidan said, shrugging her shoulders like it was no big deal. “I recently got bored of the other ones so I wanted to up the game a little.” Frissure was slightly relieved that she was just barely starting to read them. Although, it didn’t vanish the disapproval and disappointment on his face and posture. He then picked up the other books that she had lying on the side. He read the title of each of them silently, before turning to face her. It was like never in his entire life, did he expect to see a dragonet of her age read such intense books. Watching as Avidan lay down on the feathery chair and opened the book to the page she was last on. He set down the books in his claws and crouched down to her level. 

“Do you know why they rate these books for older ages?” He asked, like he expected her to believe it had to do with the content itself. Rather than it just being the complexity of the grammar and words used. 

“Have you ever heard of grade level?” She hissed back, not liking how much he was trying to care for her mental health. If he’s so worried about me hurting another dragon, then just lock me up. She rolled her eyes at the inner comment. His expression dulled from her comeback. “In case you’re wondering, the last series I read at this level wasn’t even that bad. The only thing I noticed was how much harder it was to read.” She shook her head like this discussion was pointless. “I learned a lot of new words too. I’m definitely going to reuse them in conversation.” She said in a smuggish tone, cackling to herself as her eyes went back to the pages in front of her. 

“W-What kind of words?” Frissure pressured, already thinking she meant curse words or slurs. 

“Oh you know, contemplation, bewilderment, indispensable, complications, even hindrance.” She remarked from her head slowly to the best of her ability. Then she faced him with amusement as her focus stuck on the last word. “I didn’t even know that the word hinder had another variation of it that meant the same thing!” She giggled to herself before going back to her book. “The magic of books, huh?” 

Frissure goggled at her, his maw slightly agape. The disappointment that used to be on his face, was replaced with perplexity. Dawning long and hard about where the discussion led to by this point. “You know, your highness, for your age, you’re a pretty smart girl.” He said with a smile. 

“Pfft.” She waved his flattering comment off. “For many dragonets my age, they go to school, but I don’t. I just have…” She paused as she remembered how much different her education was. “Tutors.” She spat the last word out like it reeked with an odor. “While they have teachers and other fun subjects.” She murmured, looking back down at her book to try and forget about the discussion. 

He stood there in silence, his ears fallen back. He glanced down at his own claws then spoke softly. “You don't really need school to be smart, your highness.” He claimed, almost like it was common knowledge. 

“And what makes you say that?” She asked, not believing that for a second. “Are you some sort of wise old dragon?” She grumbled.

He chuckled, “No, I know that because there's a librarian here who never went to school. She grew up in that place and read nothing but books, taught herself math, literature, and even science.” Avidan was floored. There's a dragon like that here? Where? Who are they? Are they in this castle? “I often go to them when I need something. She always has an answer for whatever issue I may have.”

“Who?” She dropped the book and leaned in. Almost like she aged back to her youngling years. Having heard something so exciting, she wanted to hear more. 

“She's not in this castle, she's in the city. But that's not the point, what I'm trying to say here is that you can be smart even without school.” He indicated with a wave of his wing towards her books. “You will grow up to be amazing, I know you will.” Avidan’s head dropped down to her book. She let it close and set it down with the rest on the side. For the first time in years, she actually smiled. Those words had never been sent her way from any other dragon. While guards and her tutors have given her tutorment and even prevented her from becoming her mother. A dragon had never called her amazing and expected great things from her. 

“I-I… I uh.” She stammered, unable to respond right away. Still starstruck by such complimenting words. “Thank you.” She finally declared softly, shying away as Frissure returned the smile. 

“So…” Frissure motioned to the books. “I'm assuming you will go back to reading?” It was like she was reading the dragoness’ mind from a few minutes ago. However, Avidan was no longer feeling it. Instead, she wanted to do something else to pass the time. Her smile vanished from her snout as she looked at the books. She shook her head, beginning to pick them up. Frissure blinked, not expecting such a change in behavior. 

“I think I wanna do something else.” She implied, getting off the cushion chair and returning the books to their proper spot. At this point, Frissure lifted himself from her crouched position and watched her, not moving from his spot. 

“What do you have in mind, princess?” He probed, raising an eyebrow slightly. When Avidan was done, she went over to him and waved for him to follow her. His expression shifted to confusion, but he didn't resist. The two of them wandered through the halls, heading back in the direction of her mother’s quarters. “Do you think you can do something for me?” Despite the hesitation on Frissure’s face, he offered to be at her assistance regardless of the matter. “There's this thing that my mom has been hiding. Some kind of book and quill of sorts. I want to see it for myself without her knowing.” 

Frissure paused, no longer following as he dwenled on her request. “Excuse me your majesty, I don't think I can help with such-” She turned and looked at him, her wings shuffling at her sides. 

“I'm not asking you to grab it, if that's what you’re wondering. All I need from you is to ensure nobody walks into the room.” His posture eased, but he still didn't seem on board with the plan. Avidan breathed out a sigh and stepped closer to him. “I'll take the fall for it all, just do it this once for me, please? I need to see this thing for myself. Her hiding stuff is suspicious as all heck.” 

Frissure stared at her longingly, his maw slightly ajar like he was debating within himself if he should go through with it. Eventually, he breathed out a sigh of defeat. “Fine, but I'm warning you that this isn’t a good idea.” He warned, but she shrugged him off. When they arrived at Glacier's headquarters, there were no guards stationed by it. Which gave them the perfect opportunity to go through with Avidan’s plan. She snuck inside while Frissure went over to guard the door. Pretending to act like a guard that was stationed there to keep intruders away from the headquarters. 

Once Avidan was in the room, it was darker than she anticipated. Yet this didn't deter her from looking around. She flipped anything she found that could be hiding something beneath. She even checked Glacier’s paintings and mirror in case there was a hidden safe behind them. After nearly an hour of piercing through every piece of furniture. She was nearly about to give up until she caught sight of the rug slightly amiss. Almost like someone previously moved it and forgot to restore it. 

She hopped over and flipped it over. Underneath it was not a safe, but a trapdoor, small enough to be used for storing things in a tiny compartment beneath the floorboards. Thankfully, it didn't need a lock to pry it open. The trapdoor itself slid neatly beneath the rest of the floor. Within the pocket contained a singular book, thicker than any she's ever come across in the library. It was the size of an average book, containing what looked to be more than two thousand pages of content. It was heavier than she expected as she tried to lift it out. Ending up having to use both claws to pull it up to the floor beside her. 

She closed the trapdoor, flipped the rug back over, and adjusted herself and the book so it was in front of her. On the front cover itself, she saw a sketched drawing of Skyro within a snowy storm. Two words in big letters at the top, “Skyro’s Diary.” Avidan’s eyes dilated from the sight, unable to grapple with such a discovery. She flipped to the first page, where she saw the map of an unknown landmass on the backside of the cover itself. Woah, this is so cool! She innerly squealed, flipping through more pages. 

The book looked old and like it aged thousands of years. It's barely been touched, with some pages sagging or ripped in a few sides and corners. She snapped the book shut as soon as she heard voices outside the door. She picked up the book, but not without grunting and heaving from its sheer size and weight alone. She successfully got away from view, hiding behind where the door would fly open if Glacier came into the room. Which is also where she was able to hear the voice of Frissure and someone she didn't recognize. It was a female Frigidian and they had an authoritative tone to them. It sounded nothing like Glacier, which made Avidan suspect that it could be another guard. 

The two of them spoke about something she could barely make out. Then clawsteps were heard stepping away from the room. Avidan checked through the gap on the bottom of the door. She saw Frissure’s claws still standing in the same spot. She breathed a sigh of relief and proceeded to leave. Frissure turned his head to face her, spotting the book in her grasp. His ears perked up and his expression shifted to both panic and worry. He glanced around for any other guards, before he took the book from her. “Hey! What are you-?” She nearly began to argue with him, but he stopped her. 

He held up a single digit over his muzzle. Then he grabbed her arm and pulled her along whilst hiding the book beneath his left wing. Seeing how he was able to so easily move it around only confirmed to her how special he was. Not only is he skilled, but he can pick up a book that not even I can hold? They reached her headquarters, him barging in and pulling her inside. He shut the door and he breathed a sigh of relief. “What’s the big deal?” She asked, bewildered by his speedy actions. Like he was trying to hide a bomb that was never supposed to be seen. 

“I thought you were talking about a diary that your mom was writing in. I didn't expect you to mean…” He held out the book with his wing. Doing a double take to ensure he didn't freak out for no reason. “This?!” He declared, now in complete disbelief and horror. 

“My mom doesn't write a diary. I know that because I checked that room left, right and center. This was all that was left in there.” She motioned towards the book with her wing. Not worried in the slightest by his concerned and terrified behavior. 

“You were not supposed to find this. Only the queen or king is allowed to have access to it.” He beckoned the book in the air in front of her. 

“So what? I'm her daughter, I'm sure it doesn't matter.” She shrugged her shoulders, showing no care about his worry. “Can I have it now? I’m desperate to read it.” She held out her claws, ready for him to hand it back. 

“Little lady.” Frissure blurted out, emphasizing his disappointment in her. “This is not right, I'm putting this back before she finds out it's gone.” He half turned to her, about to leave. However, Avidan was having none of it. 

“Excuse me?! After all of that, you just want to put it back? Why didn't you do it when we were near the room? Explain that to me!” She shot back, gesturing to the door leading to the hallway that they came from. “We have it now and I even offered to take the fall for it. So don't be going out there to risk putting your job on the line just to protect me. I'll be fine!” She insisted, even stomping her claws onto the floor. 

Frissure was stunned by her reaction. He turned back to face her and was too late to react as Avidan snatched it out of his claws. She nearly fell forward from the mass of it alone. Frissure wanted to protest, but her words stuck with him. “That face of yours tells me you agree with me.” She pointed out, “So don't worry about me. She'll go soft on me, probably just ground me from the usual activities I love doing besides reading and classwork.” She made this evident by casually placing it on the bed. Preparing herself to be bombarded by all the new exciting content from within. 

Frissure didn't move, only glance back at the door like it had the answers he needed. Whether that meant leaving or contemplating what to do. Instead of actually committing to whatever was in his head. He let out a vanquished sigh and met Avidan's gaze. She lifted herself up to the bed and lied down in front of the book. Already opening it and turning to the first page. “Well, I guess if you are confident that this is what you want, I won't pressure you to stop. Is there anything else I could do or give you in the meantime?” 

Avidan looked at him, then backed down at the book. She shook her head and smiled as she met his eyes. “I think that’ll be all, thank you Frissure.” He bowed and nodded, turning to make his leave from the room to give her privacy. “Oh and Frissure?” He halted after hearing his name. “You’re not just cooler than Gavin, but you have a clear idea of what's right. I’d like you to be my permanent body guard from here on. If that's okay with you at least?” She looked his way, watching as he met her gaze back. He couldn't help but smirk a little, exchanging a final nod before finally making his exit. 

When he had finally left the room, she went back to the book in front of her. Upon reading the first few lines, she found that this wasn't just any kind of diary. This book not only contained heavy details about Skyro herself, but also events that she's dealing with. It was astonishing to discover this, immediately realizing that this was also serving as a history book. So, there are things that not even other dragons know. She identified in her head, rubbing the bottom of her chin with a digit. Now I'm intrigued. She smirked as she skimmed through the pages. 

As she continued through the book, she found that Skyro was in a relationship with Aestraf. Which was odd, considering they were complete opposites to one another. She also realized that tensions were beginning to arise amongst the dragons themselves. As Skyro stated herself in the book, it’s not just concerning for the gods themselves, but also what kind of war it could bring. Constant bickering and arguments occurring amongst all of them. Lots and lots of racism, which appeared to be no different to what’s happening now. Queen Glacier was the most prominent in such affairs. Especially when it comes to the other tribes beyond Frigidia’s borders. It’s the only thing that Avidan never agreed with her whole life. No matter how much Glacier tried to convince her otherwise. 

She kept going, flipping through the next pages to see what changes. Everything was dated with only numbers rather than the name of the months. It was odd seeing the years beyond one-hundred thousand. It was almost like the twelve gods just wanted to keep counting up regardless of how much time passed. Before continuing onwards, she closed the book and stared forward. Almost like she was thinking about the contents from within. There was far more in the book than anything she has ever seen before. Skyro went into detail about every little thing she did for the day or everything else around her. She breathed out a saddened sigh, letting her head fall to her claw. It’s a shame I can’t meet her. From how she wrote in the book, it sounds like she’d be cool to talk to. She glanced down at the book in front of her, wondering if she should proceed or not. 

Then a knock came at the door. Avidan instantly grabbed the book and slid it beneath her bed. She narrowly avoided being spotted doing this as the door flung opened. Instead of revealing Glacier like she thought. Gavin stepped into the room with a saddened expression on his face. “Your majesty.” He bowed his head in respect. “Can I ask you something?” 

Simply examining Gavin’s posture and face. She could already guess where this was going. Don't tell me this dragon is going crazy over a swap of positions? She motioned for him to proceed, preparing herself for the backlash. “I just wanted to know…” He paused for a few seconds, his eyes shifting to the floor. Then he returned his gaze upon Avidan. “Was I a burden to you?” 

While Avidan was expecting related to the swap. Instead, it seemed like Gavin suspected himself of doing something wrong. Avidan couldn't tell if this was the wrong thing to do or not. I'm not old enough to know the difference. She told herself, leaning back a little as she inspected him like it was the first time she's meeting him. Instead of answering the question, she circled it and went with a query of her own. “Why do you ask?” 

“Because…” He didn't finish what he was trying to say. He went silent as he tried to think of a proper reason. Which also made Avidan suspect that he was more hurt by this than she previously thought. “I want to know how I could improve in the future and not have any hard feelings between us.” He explained, his head hanging and ears half flat. 

“None taken.” She assured him honestly. “And if you are alluding to the fact that Frissure is my new body guard. I simply chose someone that I feel like I could trust more to be by my side.” Despite the harsh truth weighing on Gavin. He didn't seem to take it as an offense. 

“I'm suspecting it's because he's more skilled in fighting?” He suggested, which Avidan knew to only be a small portion of the reason he thought. “If it's because of that, then I understand.” It's at that moment that Avidan was beginning to believe Gavin secretly had insecurities. Something that Avidan barely noticed during the time he worked as her security guard. In lieu of giving him any more specifics, she nodded her head. This seemed to do the trick and Gavin’s demeanor changed to relief. He bowed his head, turned and walked out of the room. Which was also the exact moment that Frissure stepped in.

He watched Gavin leave, then he faced Avidan. “Is everything all good here, your highness?” Nodding his head in the direction of Gavin behind him. 

Avidan waved him off with a claw. “Everything is good, don't worry.” She reassured him, but hid how bothered she was by Gavin. 

He checked if the coast was clear. Then he slowly started to approach her bed but not getting too close. “How's the book so far?” Then he tried to look for it. When he couldn't find it, he was nearly about to panic. “Wait where's the…?” Then he paused as realization struck him. He turned and looked in the direction where Gavin went. “He better not have… I'll go-” 

“Frissure!” She called his name in a way like he was freaking out for no reason. She hopped off her bed and pulled the book out from underneath. When he saw it, his entire body eased and he let out a relieved sigh. “For Skyro’s sake, you need to give me more credit. I'm not stupid enough to have anyone come in without me at least hiding stuff first.” She informed him, placing a paw onto her chest. 

Frissure now embarrassed, bowed his head and shied his eyes away. “I-I apologize, your highness. Just old habits in dealing with your mother, that's all.” 

She cackled to herself and swayed her claw dismissively at him. “You do not need to apologize, I understand. She can be a bit… Well, a pain in the tush if you catch my drift.” He chuckled and turned fully to her again. A smile crossing his snout. 

“Yeah, she can be, can she?” Avidan slid the book back underneath her bed. Instead of climbing back on top of her bed. She decided to brush past him and head out the room. “Where are you going?” He observed her without moving a muscle from the spot he stood.

“Getting something to drink.” She replied like it was the most obvious response she could give. “By the way, I've been meaning to ask you about what was going on in the throne room earlier? You know, before you shouted at me about how I was too young to watch my mom commit her royal work?” Frissure was caught off guard by this. While he looked reluctant to give her an answer. He eventually relented after shutting the door behind them and beginning their descent down the hall. 

He sighed, deciding not to resist her curious demands. “I suppose I could share some light on what happened.” He confessed, shrugging his shoulders in acceptance. “Apparently two parents came in complaining about an issue related to a lunatic Frigidian causing harm to their children.” This instantly raised an interest for Avidan. She turned and met his gaze. 

“Were they hurt?” I hope to the twelve gods that they weren't. Frissure’s expression didn't falter and he shook his head. 

“Thankfully not, but they were looking for some sort of reconciliation and punishment for the criminal.” Avidan was already not liking where this was going. She remembered seeing the parents leaving with not happy tears, but rather the kind to suggest they were emotionally hurt by the news. She motioned for him to continue without saying anything. “Well, Glacier basically told them that unless the criminal was found, there wasn't much they could do. However, she did offer some free medical expenses for the dragonet’s well being. They tried demanding for more, but Glacier scolded them about being selfish and whatnot. It wasn’t a good look in the slightest.” 

“I bet.” Avidan admitted, even more disgusted by the revelation. The two of them reached the kitchen. The chefs were nowhere in sight as they stepped in. 

“Here, let me pour you a glass.” Frissure offered without hesitation. Avidan stopped him before he could go past her. 

“You don't need to do that, I can get it myself.” She exchanged a polite and soothing smile. Then she proceeded to grab a glass and pour some clean water from a nearby barrel with a faucet on the end. Inside the barrel contained several volumes worth of filtered clean water. Frissure watched from the sidelines, nearly looking anxious like this treatment was entirely alien to him. Frissure has only been a soldier for three months and has already perceived Glacier’s treatment as normal. “This is new for you, isn’t it?” 

“Huh?” Frissure shot his head up to meet her eyes. 

“Gavin was so insistent to do everything for me that he never let me out of his sight. If I want something done, he comes to help.” Avidan nodded in his direction. “You were the same at first, but hearing me refuse must get you really uncomfortable.” It was almost like straight facts leaving her muzzle when she spoke. Frissure looked humiliated now. “Instead of treating me like royalty, just treat me like one of your friends.” 

Realization was beginning to settle in for Frissure as he grappled with her request. He stood there stuck for a few seconds, then he nodded. Avidan walked over to him after finishing her glass of water. “I'm sorry things are so rough, I wish things could be better.” 

The truth behind her words convinced Frissure to let out a sad sigh. “Yeah…” 

She gave him a reassuring smile and a pat on the shoulder. “Come on, let's go see if we can do something engaging.” His expression brightened up from hearing this, ears rallying up above his head. 

“Wait, like… Me and you?” He was taken aback by this. His tone shifted to genuine astonishment that she would even consider something like that. 

“Well, what else did you think, iceberg head?” She nudged him and chuckled. “I'm bored and want to do something fun.” Just saying that got her spirits up even more. Her entire body was now surging with playful energy. As the two of them walked out of the kitchen. She tapped him with her wing. “What do you often do in your free time? Any fun ideas you have in mind?”

Her question left him stumped. “Uh, well…” He paused and began to think about himself like it was the first time he even considered his own actions. “Besides sparring in the courtyard, I guess I like to make music.” Her expression lit up with glee. 

“You play music?” She motioned for him to guide her to where the instruments were located. “Show me, I want to see.” He was shook by her persistence to see his skills in a hobby.

“Um, your highness…?” She suspended herself from pushing him forth. “We don't have instruments here.” 

She tilted her head, “Then… How do you…?” 

Realization struck his face after a few seconds. “Well, I mean. I guess I do have something in my chambers.” He nervously rubbed the back of his neck. Almost like he perceived that as something to be ashamed of admitting. 

Avidan waved him forward with her wing. “Then let's get going!” She demanded, “I really want to see you play.” He chuckled and did as she commanded. They walked through the halls as fast as they could muster. Rounding a few corners that Avidan barely acknowledged from her time being in the castle. It was almost like she was walking into a new neighborhood. When they arrived at the door that was Frissure’s headquarters. He opened the door and let her come in. Avidan surveyed her surroundings, astonished to find how little decorated the room was. Not only was it small, but it had a basic bed with sheets, a blanket, and a pillow. A bedside table on the right with a lantern. A dresser, an armor stand for Frissure’s armor, a weapon rack for his sword and other equipment, then a basic chest at the foot of the bed. 

He strolled over and opened the chest. Inside was a black case with red ribbons tied around with neatly sewed in strings to keep it all together. It looked expensive, which surprised her considering Frissure’s ranking being nothing too special. He opened the case and pulled out an oboe. It looked fancy, cleanly cut and sculpted to perfection. He sat down before her, Avidan following his lead. She felt small in comparison to him. He placed his digits into the designated spots, licking his lips and leaning into the mouth piece. 

He let in a steady breath, before finally blowing into the device. What came out was a beautiful assortment of notes that nearly put her to sleep from its sheer beauty. She stared at him, listening intently to every note being released. Her maw ended up opening on its own like she was stunned. When he was done, she couldn't help but start clapping. Frissure immediately blushed from the appreciation. “Oh come on, it's not that amazing.” He said, dismissing her applause like it was unnecessary. 

“You have talent!” She declared with a grin. “You should keep up the amazing work!” She told him whilst standing back up to all fours. She walked up to him so she could examine the oboe more closely. “How long have you had this? And how long have you practiced?” He gently handed over the oboe after she assured him that she’ll be careful with it. 

“Well, I bought this after saving up a significant portion of my coins since I started here. I only ate free food or noodles, then only water for the usual beverage.” Avidan paused after hearing how he had to sacrifice a lot of his spending to get it. “And when it comes to playing music, I used to play the drums and some banjos at-” 

“Wait a minute…” She stopped him, holding out a claw. “You forced yourself to suffer just to get this? How much are you making?” Avidan asked, despite her slight lack of knowledge about coins. 

“Not a whole lot, only like… fifty silver coins a week.” He told her with a shrug. “The oboe costs me two-hundred and fifty to get.” She glanced down at the oboe in her claws. Calculating the numbers in her head, that meant it cost a fourth of a single gold coin. “So yeah, it wasn't easy to get. The only reason I know how to play it so well is because in school, I managed to master it in music class. I even joined a band.” He said it like he was proud of himself. 

Avidan’s face dropped as she listened. Realizing how much different her life was in comparison to his and other dragons. Despite Frissure telling her earlier that she didn't need to go to school to be smart. She also felt like she was missing out on a lot of fun things that other dragonets were experiencing. Frissure mumbled something incoherent as he noticed Avidan’s silence. Staring sadly at the oboe in front of her. “Your highness, are you okay?” She didn't look up for a solid minute. 

She sniffed, pulling back any tears that were forming. She shook her head and handed the oboe back to Frissure. “Nothing, don't worry about it.” She nodded at the oboe in his grasp. “I'm glad to see that you love music. Keep it up, music is a great way to keep everyone’s spirits up.” He smiled, but seemed a little skeptical of Avidan’s sudden shift in behavior. 

 Before either of them could do anything else. They both jumped as soon as Queen Glacier barged through the door. Her eyes shifted between the two of them before settling on Avidan. Avidan’s heart dropped as her mother appeared in the room. “Avidan…” Her tone stern with a hint of anger. Avidan sank into herself as Glacier’s towering and threatening posture terrified her. “What was this doing in your room?” She held up the book of Skyro’s Diary for her to see. Avidan felt the color in her face vanish. She couldn't bring herself to say anything as it was already clear she got caught. 

“Um, your majesty, I-” Frissure attempted to jump in. Likely to try and save face for how things were looking. 

“Shut it you, I'm not talking to you.” She pointed to the bed, commanding him silently to sit down. “You!” Then she pointed back at Avidan. “Why was this in your room? Answer me!” 

Avidan took a deep breath to steady herself. “Mom, what were you even doing in my room in the first place?” She asked, her tone rising. 

“First off, I'm your mother, I can go into your room whenever I like. Secondly, I wasn't in your room, a maid was in there cleaning up. She brought this to my attention.” She tapped the book with a digit. “Now stop avoiding the question and tell me the truth!” She interrogated with a huff of steam from her nostrils. 

Frissure neatly stood up to protest. However, Avidan stopped him with a wing in front of him. She pushed him back down and let out a sigh. “Mom, I have it because I wanted to see what you were reading. I got curious about it so I snuck in and took it.” She confessed to her shamefully. Glacier lowered the book and remained fixated with her gaze. Glaring daggers at her like a typical mother would when their child just did something heinous. “I'm sorry, I just…” 

“No, save it.” She then stomped over and with just two digits. She pinched her ears forcefully, making Avidan whimper from the pain. “You’re going to your room, you’re grounded so hard little lady.” Glacier growled, escorting Avidan out of the room whilst Frissure watched from the bed. Glacier pulled Avidan along until they arrived at her bedroom. Upon bursting through the door, Glacier tossed Avidan inside. “You’re staying in here for the night, plus the amount of pages you read.” She spat angrily. 

“Mom, what's the big deal? Why am I not allowed to read it?” Avidan asked, sincerely confused. 

“Because these books are not just rare, they contain an in-depth history of the past. Neither I nor any other ruler is allowed to let any other dragon get their claws on it. In risk of it vanishing forever.” She explained, “You understand that we can't recover a book like this, right? Then that's why you can't touch it. I'm not going to risk having it get destroyed.” She stomped her claw, showcasing that she was done explaining any further. 

“But mom-” As Avidan attempted to speak up, Glacier shot her back down with a single glare. Glacier shook her head in disappointment, then she stormed out without another word. Avidan scowled at the door defiantly, the rage boiling up to the surface. Alternatively to shouting or screaming at the top of her lungs in order to release it all. She took some long deep breaths, placing a paw to her chest to placate herself. Once her heartbeat and breathing had slowed down. She flopped back onto her bed, letting her eyes scale up to the ceiling. 

Letting the thoughts and memories fly through her mind. While she was still distraught by her mother scolding her. She also knew that it was going to happen anyway. She even admitted as much earlier before she snuck it out. She breathed out a sigh, relieved that the worry of getting caught is now done. At least I know what the book is about. She smugly murmured to herself. While she might've been stuck in the room for several days straight. Almost like she was a prisoner in her own home. 

She looked over at the window, noticing that it was getting close to being dusk. Who knew that a day could go by so fast. She admitted to herself, smirking slightly on her muzzle. Her thoughts went back to Glacier. It dawned on her that Glacier barely even talked or acknowledged her presence all day. This was the only time she did and yet she treated Avidan like a mother to daughter would. She scoffed and huffed at the absurdity of it all. She never treats me like a daughter. She always ignores me. When she does treat me like her child, it's when she's upset with her.

Avidan couldn't help but roll her eyes. “Hmph, I guess I shouldn't even call her my mother. What's the point?” She mumbled to herself and let out a sigh, her head flopping back down to the pillow. A long uncomfortable silence filled the air, which made Avidan uncomfortable. With Frissure no longer keeping her company. She began to grow eager to do something to pass the time. Which is when she got an idea as her eyes flashed by the window. The night slowly creeped upon the landscape and kingdom. 

“Hmmm…” She slid herself off the bed and wandered over to the window. Disregarding the snow storm outside, she saw the city below. Curiosity got the better of her and she wanted to go outside. However, instead of leaving through the front door or through other passageways. She wanted to do it from her own window

 That way she could pretend that she never even left in the first place. It would be nice to get some fresh air. I don't like being cramped in here all my life. She grunted as her eyes darted to the rest of the stone built walls around her. 

Suddenly a knock erupted from her bedroom door. Turning her attention to it, a voice came from the other side. It was soft and full of worry. “Your highness?” It was Frissure, clearly wanting to check up on her after the argument with Glacier. “Are you okay? I hope she wasn't too harsh with you.” Avidan moved towards the door like his voice was calling to her.  “Damnit, I should've been the one to take the fall. I freaking let it happen under my watch. I'm supposed to be responsible, not enable…” He cursed under his breath, feeling the weight of his body against the door. He growled, throwing his head back and causing a thud.

Avidan reached for the doorknob and pulled it open. Frissure was taken aback by the door’s movement. He pulled himself together, returning to all fours and meeting her eyes. She grabbed his arm and forced him into her room. He didn't resist in the slightest as he willingly came into the room. After shutting the door, she wasted no time going to the window. “Hey, it's a good thing you are here. I need you to cover for me.”

“What?” He tilted his head in confusion. “What do you mean? What's going on?” He observed her as she poked her head outside through the enclosed window. 

“I’m heading out. I need some air and I don't want to be in here all night.” Frissure’s facial expression shifted from even more confusion, to realization, then horror. 

“Woah, woah, woah, you want to head outside??” His tone had changed to disbelief. A skeptical look formed on his face. 

“Relax, it’ll only be temporary.” She shook him off, not appearing bothered at all by the idea.”I just need you to tell everyone I went to bed early. I should be back in half an hour or so.”

Frissure shook his head, doing a double take of her words. “Woah, hold on your highness.  I know you are old enough to leave without supervision, but you still to tell your mom where you are going.” He reminded her, keeping his tone serious. 

“Or a guard.” She added, pointing to him. 

“But you want me to lie to your mom? That's not something I can permit here.” He declared, “Not to mention how dangerous and irresponsible that is, especially from someone of a high status like yourself.” He sat down and folded his arms across his chest. Adjusting his wings against his side. The way he was acting, how against he was to her idea. She could've mistaken him for a father figure. The fact that her own dad left her years ago, it was a fitting replacement that didn't bother her in the slightest. “What am I supposed to say to your mom if you end up disappearing or hurt? Just pretend it wasn't my fault?” He logically asked, not skipping a beat. 

“Fair point.” She told him, which eased Frissure’s worries for a second. “Wanna come with me then?” Stumped by the response, he glared at her in disbelief. 

“I…” He glanced around, ensuring nobody else was around. While also taking a minute to contemplate what she just said. “Excuse me?” 

“Come with me, that way something like that can't happen.” She offered, still not seeing the big deal behind it all. 

“That's not the point I'm-” Frissure tried to explain, but she cut him off. 

“Then what? Can I not just get some time to breathe some fresh air? And where exactly is the line of being a princess capable of making orders and being stuck underneath my mom’s claws? You tell me that.” She told him, “If I remember correctly from my lessons, a princess or prince can make orders or subtle decision making amongst a kingdom without a king or queen’s approval.” She stated by memory. 

“But that also doesn't necessarily make you invulnerable to your mom and dad punishing you if they don't approve of it.” He pointed out. 

“Pfft.” She scoffed and shrugged him off. “Do you think I care at all about what my mom says?” Frissure became quiet, not expressing any rejection of her words. “I literally offered to take the fall for my own idea. Which if I may remind you of what you said out there, it's not your fault, Frissure. I literally told you that I expected this exact outcome.” Frissure nodded without saying a word. “And also… I know you’ve been here for only three months, but may I remind you that my mom doesn't care about me. So why should I care back?” 

“Avidan, that's unfair for you to say.” Frissure said, his shoulders falling from her words like she was being unreasonable. 

“No.” She grumbled, “You have no idea what I've been through since I hatched. She's done nothing but leave me to servants and guards to keep watch of me. She barely ever says hi, good morning, good night, she doesn't even look my way unless I do something loud and obnoxious that grabs her attention.” Frissure listened intently, his body and expression dropping to regret. Like he was blaming himself for not being present sooner to witness it all for himself. “At this point, the only family I call as my own is you and everyone else that actually pays attention to me.” 

Hearing this, Frissure’s ears fell with shame. “So, if I tell you that I want some fresh air. I'm telling that to my actual family, not whatever dynamic me and my real mom has here. I wouldn't even be surprised if she does what my dad did if she's no longer obligated to care about me altogether.” She scoffed and shook her head in disgust and disbelief. 

“I'm…” Frissure finally chimed in after a few seconds of silence. “I'm sorry, your highness. I didn’t…” 

She stopped him with a raised claw. “And stop calling me that, just use my name, please.” She recommended, making Frissure stumble over his words. 

“S-sorry, your-I mean, Avidan.” He felt humiliated from his own mix up. He facepalmed with a paw and grunted at his own ignorance. 

“Hey, I'm not upset with you. I'm just trying to clarify some things that need to be said.” She placed a paw onto his shoulder. “So, can I please get some fresh air? Or do I need to command you to keep quiet for me?” Her snout formed a smirk. Frissure looked into her eyes, unsure of what to say back. Then he let out a defeated sigh, shrugging in acceptance. 

“Fine.” He cackled at himself, grinning slightly. “But I'm coming with you just in case.” Avidan couldn't hold in the laugh. She didn't protest as she gestured to him. 

“Alright, but before we go, do you have a hoodie or can you give me one?” She asked. 

“Why would you need that?” He asked confusedly, tilting his head to the side.

“Well, to hide, duh!” Avidan declared in a condescending tone, looking at him like he was dumb. 

Frissure laughed and thought about it for a moment. “I'll see what I can do.” Frissure assured her, turning to leave the room. Avidan nodded and waited by the window until he could return. Her eyes shifted to the darkness and storm weather outside. The snow hadn't stopped once the whole day. With only the occasional moments where it paused for some odd reason. The lights from the city below were the only thing that pierced through the dark and eerie climate. I don't remember the last time I've been outside.

After what felt like a long time sitting there. Frissure came back with a leather hoodie. As Avidan grabbed it and inspected it closely. She realized that the hoodie has rarely ever been worn. Which shouldn't come as a surprise considering they didn't need a jacket to stay warm. The only reason they needed it is to block the snow from landing on their head. Which was another reason for Avidan needing it. She put it on, finding out how much bigger it was than her. She ended up being enveloped by the jacket’s sheer size alone. 

“Are you ready?” He asked with a smile, the two of them laughing from how goofy Avidan looked with it on. As soon as she nodded, a knock arrived at the door. Frissure and Avidan exchanged a confused glance with each other. Then Frissure walked over and opened the door. Avidan hid herself around the corner, preventing whoever it was from seeing her. 

“Oh, Mr. Frissure, I wasn't expecting you to be in Avidan’s room.” It was a female Frigidian, someone Avidan recognized to be one of the maid dragonesses. “I was just coming to deliver dinner to her before bedtime.” Avidan poked her head around the corner, but not far enough for the maiden to spot her. 

“Oh, that's very thoughtful, thank you.” Frissure politely told her. “Um, but Avidan is thinking of not eating tonight. She's going to bed earlier than expected.” When the maiden heard this, she pulled the tray of food back. 

“Oh, in that case then I'll share this with the others. Unless you want it?” She offered, gesturing the trays towards him. 

“No thank you.” He politely declined with a raised claw. The maiden nodded before leaving, which let him shut the door. Once his eyes met with hers, a knowing look crossed his face. “We should probably get going now. I'll meet you outside once I snuck out through my own window.” I like the sound of that. After she nodded, Frissure opened the door again and stepped out. Meanwhile, Avidan grabbed the lantern and blew it out. The room dimming into darkness with the only source of light being the window from the moonlight outside. 

Avidan waited and listened in case anything changed. Hoping that Glacier wouldn't barge in after hearing the news. When nothing happened for several minutes and the fading clawsteps of Frissure were no longer heard. She opened the window carefully, already being barraged by a snowy assault. She wrapped her leg wing around her face to block the inco and carefully climbing out of the window while also remembering how far up she was. When she was able to jump, she held out her wings and flapped them. 

She breathed out a relieved sigh when she realized she was hovering without issue. She returned to the window and closed it before her room could fill up with more snow. I'm going to have to clean up in front of my window when I get back. That way nobody can get suspicious about me possibly leaving. She landed on the roof, avoiding any possibility of other guards spotting her. She waited for what felt like hours for Frissure. However, when it didn't seem like he was coming, she was thinking of coming back. 

Then the sounds of wings fluttering and approaching her position made her give up on that idea. Popping up in front of her nearly forced her to let out a scream. About to mistake Frissure for another guard. She jumped and groaned from being startled. “Don’t do that! You almost gave me a heart attack!” She snorted at him, not worried about being too loud thanks to the storm above. 

“How? You aren't even an adult yet.” Frissure joked with a smirk. Despite noticing that Frissure wasn't wearing armor anymore, only another leather hoodie. Avidan rolled her eyes and nodded to him to start following. The two of them began their descent to the city below. When they arrived, they landed onto the softly covered road of snow. “Well, we are here.” Frissure said, his tone alone hinting that he was waiting for what was next. Avidan surveyed her surroundings as if it was the first time she's seen it. Which is true considering she's been inside her entire life. “What do you want to do first?” He asked with a polite and patient smile. 

As she scanned her surroundings and spotted other buildings. Each one either being a house, a restaurant, or some sort of store. She felt her stomach growl hungrily. “Well, I think food is the first thing.” She suggested with a chuckle, holding her stomach with a claw. Frissure looks around until his eyes locked on a single restaurant. Avidan followed him without hesitation, feeling excitement build up within her. This is so cool! And my mom doesn't even know I'm out here! She innerly said with glee. 

When they arrived at the restaurant, Frissure opened the door first. He stepped aside to let her go in first. The first smell that greeted Avidan’s nostrils was the scent of cooked fish, steak, vegetables, spaghetti and other dishes that Avidan had never tasted before. Due to their distinct scent, she couldn't quite describe them. However, their uniqueness did pique her interest in actually tasting them for herself. 

As they reached the counter, they saw two male Frigidians and a three females in the kitchen. It didn't take long for one of the female Frigidians to spot them. They walked over and greeted them with a large grin plastered over her snout. “Welcome! How can I offer you two today?” Frissure tapped Avidan on the shoulder, pulling her attention to him. Then he pointed up at the menu that was hanging from the roof above them. It only contained names of the meal and their prices. The cheapest was cooked salmon, only costing five bronze coins. 

From what Avidan could recall from her time learning about how currency works from her younger years. Twenty-five bronze coins was actually so cheap, literally anybody could buy it. The most expensive was a meal called, “The Beefy Cheese Express.” Which cost an astounding five-hundred bronze coins. 

“That sounds a bit excessive.” She points at the most expensive option. Frissure laughed and shrugged his shoulders as a full toothed grin formed on his muzzle. 

“You can say that. I personally like to get number eight.” He informed her, pointing at the spot he mentioned. Number eight was named, “The Calorie Triangle Meal.” The name alone reminds her of the lesson back in school when her tutors taught her about the food pyramid. Which was entirely about a healthy diet by consuming everything on the pyramid. 

“I'm going to assume that includes everything in one from the food pyramid?” She asked, glancing up at Frissure. He nodded and didn't say anything else. An adult would tell me to go for that. However, since I wanna make my own decision on what to eat, I'm going to go with something else. She read through each of the options until she felt good about number seven. The menu named number seven as, “Fish and Salsa Parade.” It contained chips as a side, crispy fish sticks, and some dipping sauce. Altogether, it only cost one-hundred and fifty bronze coins, plus a ten bronze coin tax fee. She informed the dragoness behind the counter of her choice, followed by Frissure next. However, he simply chose number one, which was the cheap and basic cooked fish. 

“Why are you eating that?” Avidan asked, raising an eyebrow and looking at him like he was crazy. “I was expecting you to go with your favorite?” 

He shrugged, “I don't have a lot on me right now. I've been saving up a lot of my money.” While Avidan was curious about what that could be. She decided to not ask as to not pry into his personal business. 

“Any beverages you would like to have?” The female dragoness asked, her polite customer service smile not faltering from her snout the whole time. 

“Just some water will be fine.” Frissure replied with a wave. She nodded and got cracking on filling two glasses full of fresh and clean water. She handed them over once she was done and handed over a tiny piece of paper with the number five on it. Frissure took it and guided Avidan over to an empty clean table. 

“Do these places get busy during the day?” She asked, glancing around at the other empty tables. There were no other dragons in the restaurant besides themselves. 

“Oh yeah, very, especially around the weekends.” He informed her, scanning the other tables like her. “Some of these restaurants are even open during the night. Service gets slower, but dragons still desire a midnight snack sometimes.” Avidan chuckled as she thought of a dragon waking up and deciding to leave and eat out instead of at home. If Avidan was ever told of these places without the context provided. She would've considered them just places to go on special occasions. Perhaps that was their original intention?

It didn't take long for their food to be ready. They read out their number and Frissure got up and went to grab it. The whole time, the two of them kept their hoodies over their heads. Ensuring that the kitchen staff couldn’t get the chance of recognizing who they were. When Frissure returned with the meals, it was not what she expected. The chips were thin, shaped differently amongst each other, and bright yellow in color, as well as sprinkled with salt and pepper. The sauce was a darker shade of yellow and was a thick form of liquid. The fish sticks didn't even look like fish, just crispy and capsule shaped. 

She picked one up and dipped it in the sauce. Then she stuck it into her maw and bit down. To her shock, it was far more delicious than she could've ever expected. She continued to dip and bite, chewing it while in awe. “Woah… These are… Oh my goodness.” She glanced up at Frissure as he didn't bother eating with his claws. He ate like any other dragon would. Sloppily using his maw to dig in whilst using his claws to guide them inwards to his maw. He didn't look up for a couple of minutes due to him being distracted with his own food. Nearly looking like he hadn't eaten anything in days. 

“Do you like it?” He muffledly asked, his maw still full of food. 

“It's amazing! I'm surprised the chefs never made anything like this for me before!” She excitedly said, continuing her assault on the meal before her. Frissure chuckled and smiled through his puffy cheeks. His demeanor and expression alone almost acted like a father who considered her response goofy. “I wonder what the other options on the menu taste like?” She thought out loud for him to hear. Her eyes darted to the menu behind the counter. 

“Don't get ahead of yourself, I don't have the money to spend on anything else.” He reminded her as he continued eating. 

“I know, I know, I'm not saying right now, just like maybe in the future.” Frissure chuckled again, not looking up from his plate. Avidan took a bite of one of the chips next. While she liked it by itself, the sauce made it even better. The two of them went through the rest of dinner in silence. Avidan occasionally glanced over to the workers behind the counter. All of whom appeared to be cleaning up. They must be closing up soon. Does that mean we are their last customers? The two of them ended up finishing their meals after a few minutes. Fissure was the first to be done, wiping his lips with napkins. Avidan did the same shortly afterwards, even taking a sip from her glass of water. 

“Satisfied?” He asked, keeping his bright smile on his muzzle. She returned a nod, her stomach no longer growling with hunger. “Good, then let’s get out of here.” He checked the windows near the front. Which is where he realized how dark it was now outside. Frissure and Avidan stood up to all fours while Frissure grabbed the trays. They turned and began to make their departure from the restaurant. Frissure tossed out the trash and set down the tray with the others. Then the two of them left through the front door. Instantly greeted by the chilly temperature and harsh weather. It nearly fooled Avidan into believing that it got worse. 

“Shoot, we should probably head home. I highly doubt any places out here are open now under these conditions.” Frissure informed her, pointing to the rest of the city. While there were lights, they seemed to be emanating from houses rather than business buildings. “And it’s getting late for you, I don’t want to leave any suspicions that we were up late tomorrow.” Despite her reluctance in leaving while the night was still young. She also couldn’t deny what he said. While it was sad to be deciding to head home already. She was glad to have gotten the opportunity to see the real world in person. She hoped to have another chance in the future when it wasn’t so stormy or late in the day. Frissure lifted off into the air and began to escort her back to the castle. They arrived back within a matter of minutes. Frissure opened Avidan’s window and allowed her to sneak in. She did so, being careful to not slip off or get blown off from the force of the wind. Once she was inside, Frissure climbed in after her. He closed the window, now in perfect pitch darkness. 

“Wow, that was far more wild than I was expecting.” She told him with a full toothed grin. Frissure chuckled and nodded, patting her on the back with his wing. Then he yawned and stretched his limbs, rubbing his eyes with his paws. 

“I’m glad you enjoyed it for the little time we were out there.” He admitted, sounding satisfied and exhausted at the same time. “I think the night patrol is out and about by now. You should probably get some sleep.” Avidan felt the exhaustion just as much as he did. She yawned and nodded, agreeing with him. He guided her over to her bed, tucking her in once she was lying down. Avidan felt her eyes droopy, resting her head against the soft pillow. She looked up at Frissure as he examined her with tired eyes. 

“Thank you, Frissure. For making all of this possible.” She confessed with a bright smile. “I hope to do more like this in the coming days.” Frissure nodded but didn’t say anything. He adjusted the blanket to be firmer around her. Almost like he was ensuring that her whole body was covered by it. She yawned again, letting her eyes close. Frissure then stepped away, beginning his leave from the room. Before he could fully leave, Avidan mumbled out one last thing to him. “Good night Frissure, I’ll see you tomorrow.” She yawned as she made herself comfortable. 

“Goodnight you-” Before finishing that sentence, he corrected himself. “I mean, Avidan. Get some good rest.” Avidan’s ears picked up the door being opened, followed by him stepping out and closing it behind him. As the silence filled the air, Avidan passed out in the soft comfortness of her bed. Exhausted after a long day of activity with her new friend. 

LavaQuake Devor

(21008:  1 month before Book 7)

 

LavaQuake stood in a dress room. It wasn’t fancy, but it contained mirrors, a closet full of a variety of colors and designs. As well as many equipment to help beautify LavaQuake for the big day. Three female Fuegans walked over with makeup and attire. LavaQuake’s mother Bretta Devor stood behind them with the biggest grin on her snout. LavaQuake didn't want any of this, yet he had no choice in the matter. Before he could mutter a word, the three designers got to work on him. LavaQuake flinched many times and nearly wanted to push them away. However, the glare of his mother forced him to sink into himself. 

“There you go, you are already looking beautiful!” His mother said, sitting and looking like the proudest mother. When the three designers were finished, he wanted to run away. He looked like an absolute fool from the way his appearance was. This is so embarrassing. He mumbled in his head as his mother stood. “Now this is what a true king should look like!” She exclaimed with the biggest grin. “You are going to kill it out there! Show that contestant how much better you are!” 

LavaQuake glared at her, taking her words as an offense. Is this who she thinks I am? A strong leader? Hell no. Unfortunately, he couldn't protest in time as the door of the room opened. Which revealed LavaQuake’s father Osin Devor. Not only was he bigger than LavaQuake, but he always had control over the room by his presence alone. Whenever he spoke, the room went quiet. LavaQuake gulped before being pulled away by Bretta. “Let's get your lines ready. We don't want you to go up there without knowing what to say!” She exclaimed, her posture and words in a rush. It was like they were trying to arrive somewhere on a short schedule. 

They rushed past Osin, who stood to the side with a careful and silent stare. LavaQuake couldn't do anything to get out of this situation. He made a horrible mistake weeks ago. When he mentioned that he mentioned to his parents how he was being invited to a public political debate. It ended up spiraling out of control with his parents forcing him into various events. Until finally, they manipulated him and put him in as a candidate for King or president of Fuegolis. LavaQuake tried to tell them to stop, but they would never listen. No matter how many times he told them no. 

While LavaQuake was an adult, his parents treated him like he was still a dragonet. Someone that doesn’t know how to live in society. LavaQuake had no idea if they knew about his gift. Which could be the reason they treated him like this. However, he also knew that they would've disowned him if he confessed about it or if they grew suspicion over it. They made their way through the hallway until they reached backstage. Other Fuegans were running around with papers and equipment to prepare for the grand event. 

Bretta managed to find the papers for LavaQuake. She sat him in a chair and began pointing to all of the points. “Okay honey, this is it. When you get on stage, you gotta touch on all of these things.” LavaQuake skimmed through the list. There were a total of twenty and each one was what a typical king would stride towards. Such as helping the homeless, lowering taxes, fixing the kingdom up, and even providing more housing. LavaQuake read them and already knew what they wanted him to say. However, he didn't like how they were just pressuring him to say this stuff. He preferred to do what HE wanted. 

LavaQuake’s expression twisted to disgust. Bretta hadn't left and noticed his change of behavior. “What's wrong honey? Tired again?” She asked, placing a paw onto his shoulder. 

“No.” LavaQuake mentioned, “I don't understand why you want me to lie to my fans.” He informed her, waving the papers like they represented only an insult. 

“It's not lying!” She shot back. “You are just telling them what they need to hear.” She rephrased like that changed what it really was. LavaQuake knew that it was lying, but what was the point of saying that to his mother? She wasn't going to listen, she never did. “If you want to win this, then you need to do what I say, okay? We know what they want and I’m helping you achieve victory here.” LavaQuake opened his maw to speak, but he instantly snapped it shut. He wasn't going to express how he felt. Not right now, there was no point doing so. “So please, read it and remember everything that you need to say.” 

LavaQuake was about to shake his head to refuse. Then Osin walked over and his expression immediately faltered. He gulped and sighed, picking up the papers and reading through them. He made sure to read them more than ten times. Wanting all of them to be stuck in his brain by the time he goes on stage. He could already hear voices rising in volume from the audience. His head lifted and his eyes moved towards the curtains. He saw the other Fuegans shifting around, occasionally glancing out before rushing away. 

Bretta and Osin walked away from him after a few seconds. They made their way to the other government officials and workers keeping the stage in operation. When nobody was paying attention, LavaQuake leaned into the papers and did two things. The first was a long inhale of the paper's scent. Immediately, he was able to pick up on multiple details. Not only the origins of the paper but also who wrote the lines down. It came of no surprise when he recognized it to be his own mother. The second thing he did was lick the corner that his mother touched. He received even more information on his mother. 

Like he suspected, Bretta’s political engagement was beyond normal. She was not just engaged with it, but she actively participated in protests and events. This was a combination of his own memories and the details the paper had. Which contained the individual imprints of Bretta’s digits touching the paper. On top of that, he couldn't get anything about himself. It was utterly absent from the paper’s entire history of existing. Which was something that LavaQuake had come to expect by this point. His gift allowed him to obtain information on such a deep level from anyone but himself. 

It also told him of her personality and the specific quirks she showcases on a daily basis. At this point, he knew more about her than she did. Although, none of it was surprising to him. He found all of this out years ago. However, he checks on her every once in a while to see what changed about her. The only thing that seemed to be different now was her engagement in politics and her inability to listen to him. Almost like he wasn't her son but an unpaid actor. He grumbled to himself before setting the paper to the side. Which was the exact moment a Fuegan worker rushed over. “It's time, LavaQuake! It's time to get you on the stage.” 

As he was about to walk onto the stage. Bretta and Osin raced over to greet him. “You got this honey! Did you remember everything by heart?” She asked whilst looking at him skeptically. He nodded his head and reassured her that he did. “Remember to keep that grin visible. Keep professional, keep calm and stay on track.” She told him while Osin nodded along like he was agreeing to every word.

“I know, I know.” He replied, growing tired of her constant questions. “I know mom, okay.” LavaQuake got past them and he stepped onto the stage. That's when the other contestant was visible on the other side. They waved a wing at the crowd as his body moved towards LavaQuake. His heart dropped in his chest from the mere sight of him. He had a necklace and earrings on him. He was skinnier than LavaQuake and had brown eyes. From what LavaQuake could recall during the entire debate. His name was Basalt and he was the current sitting king of Fuegolis. He was going for reelection for another four year term. 

They approached each other and shook paws. They exchanged polite grins like they were long term friends. Slowly turning to the audience and waving their paws. At that moment, LavaQuake considered this the perfect opportunity to get a read on Basalt. He never got the chance before so he might as well do it now. He leaned his snout close enough to sniff without looking suspicious. A flood of information flew through his body and he couldn't help but meet Basalt’s oblivious glare at the crowd. 

He had a family of one dragonet and a wife. He could smell the determination, confidence and even a hint of self declaration of victory. Like he thought this entire election was already going in his favor. He was completely oblivious to the numbers and appeared to be ignoring them on purpose. Like he didn't want to face the truth that the two of them were tied. Basalt leaned whilst staring at the crowd. “Good luck out there fella, we’ll see how well you do in your little debate with me.” He said with a light chuckle. 

LavaQuake glared at him as the two of them parted to their podiums. Which is where LavaQuake found himself standing in front of a crowd of thousands. There were no papers to help guide him through the election. Instead, he was going to have to use what he was taught to say. The crowd was screaming with joy at them. Many of them were clapping their paws together and slamming their tails onto the ground. Which boomed the sounds of their claps even louder. LavaQuake eventually glimpsed at the curtain to find Bretta standing and staring at him with hopeful eyes. Despite her sweet and genuine grin, LavaQuake knew that it wasn’t real. They were doing this for themselves and there was no way out. 

The moderators eventually sat down in between them and the crowd. There were two of them, one a female Fuegan and the other a male. Like with any other Fuegan, they didn't wear any clothing that could be damaged by fire. The audience settled after a few more minutes and the male Fuegan spoke. “Alright, we are here today to begin the election for 21008 to 21010. We have our two candidates here ready to battle for the chair. On our left, we have a newer candidate who has surprised thousands of Fuegans for his dedication in this. His name is LavaQuake, twenty years old but with a passion for change. Not like I haven't seen that already.” 

The crowd erupted in cheering and LavaQuake forced a smile. He waved at everyone with a single paw gesture. The female Fuegan chimed in to resume. “As for on our right, we have our currently sitting president and king Basalt. So far he has shown this tribe how to lead. However, his actions have so far questioned whether he's really the better candidate.” Basalt’s expression twisted slightly from their words. He went back to grinning like a buffoon. “Out of curiosity, why do you want to stay king? What is your motivation?” She asked, directing her focus primarily on Basalt. 

LavaQuake glanced over and perked his ears. “Well…” Basalt took a second to conjure up a response. “Let’s just say that my previous movements on improving health care and education. Is a step up amongst any other candidate that came before me. I don’t just stride for the safety and health of all Fuegans, but for the dragonets themselves. They deserve to live till tomorrow and any day after that.” He said this calmly yet proudly, puffing out his chest and placing a paw onto it. He didn’t grin, keeping a firm smile to not look overly fond of himself. “I’ve always looked out for the lesser dragons, never for those that look down upon you.” The crowd instantly erupted into cheers. Clapping and the sounds of tails thumping against the ground echoed. 

“Thank you, let’s go to LavaQuake now.” The male Frigidian said, both of their heads turning to him next. “The same question as we’ve asked Basalt. Why do you want to run for presidency and what made you go down this path?” LavaQuake gulped as silence filled the air. He saw nothing but stares from the crowd, the moderators, and even Basalt. His cocky smirk was visible in the corner of his snout. When LavaQuake looked over at the curtain, he saw his mother motioning for him to proceed. She even gestured between her own head and his. Telling him to remember what he read from the papers minutes ago. 

LavaQuake cleared his throat and raised his voice for all to hear. “I want to do more than what Basalt intends to do.” LavaQuake exclaimed, “Not only education and health care, but for jobs too.” 

Basalt interjected before he could continue. “Um, excuse me but I do that too.” He said with a laugh, turning away from him. The audience and the moderators were about to do the same. 

“I am going to reduce taxes to the absolute minimum.” LavaQuake told everybody hastily, forcing everyone to go quiet. Basalt slowly glimpsed his way, his smirk faded to distaste. Like as if LavaQuake one upping him struck a chord. “I want to clean up the streets and provide parks. I don’t just want to make this place fabulous. I want other kingdoms to grow jealous of our land and what we can do.” LavaQuake told them, keeping his voice calm and steady. 

“I also want that.” Basalt chimed in, “You know what you sound like to me? You sound like you are reading a script.” He pointed out, which wasn’t too far from the truth. “Let me ask you all, would you prefer to have someone who tells you false truths to gain your trust? I don’t do that. I do what I say I’ll do. I’ve proven that from my last election. I did everything that I said I’d do. Am I wrong or what?” He asked the last part loud enough for everyone to hear. The audience erupted in a combination of laughter and more cheering. LavaQuake noticed how fast his parents’ plans had failed. 

He took a deep breath, not wanting to let his emotions grow uncontrolled. “I can be the same, but you’ll never know if I can if you don’t let me prove it. A year ago I worked for a team to clean our beaches of any and all trash. You know how much we’ve obtained? More than a million pounds within a single year alone. I can do far more than that if I was given the chance.” LavaQuake demanded, watching the expressions of many Fuegans twist and turn to different emotions. 

“While an amazing achievement for what it is. I managed to remove corruption that plagued this tribe of dragons who wish to hurt innocent dragons. The firing of Kena Wren was significant as he deemed disabled dragons to be harmful to our society.” Basalt mentioned, tapping his digits against the podium to strengthen his argument. “LavaQuake here has no experience or knowledge of what he is doing. Would you rather trust someone with more than twenty years of skills or a dragon that just barely became an adult?” The audience erupted into more cheers and clapping. 

The moderators chimed in with a new question. “Once you are president, what will be your first order of business?” The male Fuegan asked, directing their attention to LavaQuake this time. He took a deep breath to keep his nerves relaxed. 

“If I had to label the first thing that would be important. I think taxes and the removal of tariffs as my first priority.” LavaQuake glimpsed over to Basalt to see annoyance. If there was one thing that Basalt never tried changing. It was making civilians pay less to the government over petty things. He never advocated for them so his reaction made sense. “Do you wanna know why? It’s because me and my family lived in poverty while we all worked fifty hour work weeks. Everything is so expensive that we are still in debt regardless of how well our spending habits are.” This instantly shocked the audience and they began cheering for him. 

“In order for the younger generations to not worry about such stresses. I will personally ensure that all students will be forgiven on their debts. All of which will be paid under my administration.” Basalt said loud enough while the crowd died down. “We shouldn’t make the younglings suffer for the ignorant decisions of our past.” More cheers were heard followed by clapping. “They deserve better than to live in poverty like their parents. We want to see them succeed and live in a happy family. Where their children and the children of their children can survive in a perfect world with no worries.” 

LavaQuake felt like laughing, but he kept it inside. His eyes shifted to the curtain where Bretta stood. Her snout was scrunched as she stared and listened to their speeches. Cringing and growing anxious by the direction of it. It was clear to LavaQuake that she didn’t expect it to go this direction. “I have a history in office and I can give you concrete proof of each thing I’ve done. All of which came out successful and I did what I could to provide a stable society for everyone to live in.” He then gestured to LavaQuake with disgust and disinterest. Yet, all of it seemed calculative from the way he moved. “I wouldn’t trust a dragon with no experience or proof of what he could do. Anything besides just stating that you used to clean up a beach.” 

“The entire beach.” LavaQuake corrected him. “Of the entire island, including Frigidia, Floria, and all around Stellaris. We barely had twenty of us making it all happen and look!” LavaQuake waved a wing outwards. “Have you seen it this clean before? I doubt Basalt can tell you the last time he cared about the planet that he stood upon.” Basalt scoffed and glared in his direction. That one definitely got to him. The audience roared in excitement and happiness. 

“Of course I care about this planet.” Basalt would say once the crowd quieted down. “Why do you think I tell everyone to not create fires?” He asked, giving LavaQuake a nasty look. “We saw what happened in the Great War of Mistakes. We angered the wrong tribes and got severely punished for it!” LavaQuake rolled his eyes and sighed heavily. He turned to the curtain to see his mother shaking her head. She mumbled something inaudible from her position. LavaQuake could only guess that she was cursing out Basalt. “Well, I say no more. I will do what is best for Fuegolis and our future generations.” 

“And what will be the first thing you do if you became president or stay king, Mr. Basalt?” The female Fuegan asked when she got the chance to do so. 

“I will make an order to only allow Fuegans of a certain age to apply for presidency. We need someone who knows what and how the world works.” The audience, while enthusiastic, was also not overly fond of the idea. Basalt noticed and he made sure to save himself before they grew spiteful of him. “I’ll also work on furthering the development of medicine and health care.” The damage was already done though. The crowd was slowly turning to LavaQuake like his existence alone was better to pay attention to. 

“Okay, next question.” The female Fuegan suggested, coughing as she flipped a piece of paper. “What will you do to keep our relationship with other tribes?” The male Fuegan nodded and leaned in whilst staring directly at Basalt. 

Basalt didn’t need time to think as he jumped right in. “I will do whatever is necessary to keep them on our side. With Vaermia as our biggest ally. I want to personally grow our partnership into something bigger.” His answer was vague, like he wanted to be careful with his words in case something slipped. 

LavaQuake tilted his head and looked at him crazily. Then the moderators turned to him next and asked the same question. LavaQuake took a moment to prepare a response. He could already guess that Basalt was growing impatient. His proud confidence remained all over his face. “I want to strengthen our ties with every kingdom, including Oceana and Floria. I want to find a way to recover from the damage of our past actions.” LavaQuake knew that this wasn’t what his parents demanded of him. However, he was starting to think that lying wasn’t getting him anywhere. Regardless of the setbacks from Basalt’s side, he’s more likely to win if he keeps at it like this. “I will give up assets, I will personally attend or provide resources if necessary to get them to forgive us.” 

He heard gasps erupt, but it wasn’t a good sign. He saw Fuegans beginning to whisper to each other like he said something controversial. Which wasn’t too far off considering what he was implying with his words. Basalt stared at him for a long moment before facing the crowd. “I will personally try and help Vaermia to recover from the losses of Queen Thunder’s actions. We should stick by the side of our ally, no matter what.” Basalt said, which resulted in clapping from the Fuegans observing off stage. “I will go far beyond what I’ve done already after my first election. I will do things that no president has ever done to help make Fuegolis great again. If you vote for me, the Fuegolis you knew today will be morphed into something far greater. It will become so grand that you can’t ignore it.” 

LavaQuake saw Bretta in her same spot. She cried a little like they had just failed the election. It’s at that moment that everything that LavaQuake has been building up inside of him instantly snapped. His emotions towards his parents and the desire to lie and express things that were half lies. He never wanted to be president, yet here he was. Standing before a massive audience of thousands and arguing with the current king of Fuegolis.  He didn’t know he got to this point, but he wanted out. He took a deep breath, letting his heartbeat slow from the stress plaguing in his heart. “I have something to admit…” LavaQuake demanded, causing everyone to go quiet. LavaQuake hung his head in shame. He didn’t want to confess to something so private out loud. However, he wanted all of this to stop. “I don’t actually want to be president.” The eyes of every Fuegan, including Basalt and the moderators shifted to him. “My parents brought me up here because they wouldn’t take no as an answer. Instead of me expressing what I think is best for the dragons of Fuegolis. I think the better option is to leave it to the civilians to decide on what’s best for them.” 

It was dead silence by this point. The stares of every Fuegan around him made him want to sink into himself. “Instead of someone in power telling everyone what they’ll do and what’s best for them. How about we give the Fuegans themselves a chance to suggest for us? You might be the president, but we’re only in that position because of them.” His eyes went to the audience that was watching and listening to every word he said. He waved a wing towards them. “And you know what? Fuck what my parents demand from me. No, I am going to do it my way, not theirs. I might be a young adult, but I still deserve my independence and my obligation to follow the rules like anyone else. And I think the morally best option is for citizens of this tribe to tell ME what is best for THEM. Not the other way around.” He shouted louder so everyone could hear him. When his snout shut, a long moment of silence filled the air. 

A roar of cheers and celebration emerged from the crowd in an instant. It overwhelmed everybody and nearly made LavaQuake deaf from the loudness. Due to the sheer loudness, the moderators couldn’t ask any more questions. LavaQuake going off script and speaking what needs to be said completely broke everything. Basalt’s maw was wide open, glimpsing between LavaQuake, the moderators, and the crowd. He was in  utter disbelief by the change in direction. “I think I spoke what I needed to say.” LavaQuake finished off, before turning and walking off stage. He brushed past his mother, whose scales were pale white. Once LavaQuake was backstage and no longer visible to the public eye. Bretta took a long moment to process what happened. Then she rushed over and began to interrogate him like he broke a law. 

“What the heck are you doing? That’s not what I asked you to do! Now you screwed everything up! And after everything we’ve done for you, I thought you knew better.” She remarked, but LavaQuake ignored her. At least, he tried to avoid her the best he could. It wouldn’t be until his father stepped in front of him with the most disappointed look that LavaQuake ever saw from him.  

“I'm so disappointed in you.” Osin growled through his teeth. “You have tarnished this entire family’s legacy by your words. You might as well not even be considered our son.” That struck a chord in LavaQuake, his face dropping and his heart fully aching from his words. Then the memories began to flood into his brain. He could recall every moment of his parents constantly controlling his life and what he loved to do. He never wanted to take politics this far. Yet here he was, running for president or king of Fuegolis. Instead of sadness and guilt, it was easily replaced with anger. 

“You know what? I'm okay with that actually.” He snarled back, resulting in both of his parents to gasp. “I didn't want any of this. I wanted a normal family, not one built out of manipulation and guilt tripping.” 

“You don't mean that!” Bretta shouted, while also looking uncertain. Her expression was full of anger and confusion. 

“Now the gaslighting…” LavaQuake grumbled, “I don't want either of you part of my life. From this point forward, I'm going to do what I really want.” LavaQuake growled, stepping away from his parents. “And I don't want to see either of you again!” 

“Honey please, you are being overly dramatic. You are probably just overwhelmed, we can get you some water and-” Bretta attempted to bring up suggestions like she already knew what was wrong. However, LavaQuake wasn’t buying any of it. 

“No! I'm freaking done being your little precious prince. I'm done living a life that you two automatically decided without my input. I'm out, I'm done. I’m shutting you both out of my life and I'm going to do what I really love. Which is to create my own business.”

“Why think so small when you can do something bigger?!” Bretta pointed out, but her tone was beginning to showcase pleading. “We know what's best for you so let us-” 

“No mom, I know what's best for me. I'm not a dragonet anymore and I don't need you two to be running my life.” LavaQuake sternly told them. “Fuck being king or president and fuck you both for forcing me into it.” LavaQuake turned around to walk away. Wanting to head back to his dressing room to wind down after the election campaign. His parents attempted to follow, but LavaQuake told security to keep them at a distance. They complied and LavaQuake managed to get some time to himself for once. No longer constantly being observed by his mother and father. Now he could breathe fresh air without being judged. He sat in his chair and looked into the mirror. He saw himself with no weights keeping him down. He was already ready to go home and relax. To call this day off and return to the life that he wanted to live. 

LavaQuake pushed himself out of the chair and began to clean himself up. When he was done, he went to the door in the back. Doing anything he could to avoid talking to his parents again. LavaQuake took off into the sky and began to head home. Deciding to call the day off early as an official resignation. The flight back home was peaceful with no parents arguing with him, fans coming to greet him, or random shenanigans getting in the way. LavaQuake could breathe and there was nothing his parents could do. When he got home, he locked his house completely and went to bed early. Wanting to gain as much energy as possible for when he woke up tomorrow. 

The rest of the week came by with a lot of arguments and guilt trips from his parents. They came to his house to talk for three days straight. At first he accepted the chance to listen, but only because of curiosity. When nothing changed from their conversation, he kicked them out and ignored them. The next two days went by like a blur and LavaQuake went on with his day. By the time the week ended, LavaQuake was beginning to feel like everything was calming down. He was in his living room, eating charcoal and staring at the wall. While bored, he felt at ease. For the first time in a long time, he was in peace. 

The door received a knock, irking LavaQuake’s attention. He lifted his head and turned to the door. He didn’t stand up, instantly thinking that it was only his parents coming back to trick him. However, the knock came again and a voice spoke. This wasn’t either of his parents, it sounded stern and deep. “LavaQuake, this is the national guard. We would like to speak with you.” LavaQuake’s ear perked up and he hopped to all fours. He made his way to the door, nearly thinking that they were at the wrong place. After all, he dropped out of the race for king a week ago. Are they here for my signature? 

He unlocked the door carefully and slowly. Although, he left the chain at the top connected and he pulled it open. He poked his head into the crack. He saw the guard that asked for him blocking most of his view. “Sir LavaQuake, it is a pleasure to be seeing you! Can you please come out fully for us?” He asked, a grin plastering across his snout. He was chubbier than LavaQuake, but he had golden colored drakic armor with purple tints. LavaQuake tried to look around the guard, but he couldn’t. 

“Can I ask what this is about?” He asked, raising an eyebrow. He hadn’t left his house for the last eight hours. So whatever news dropped recently, he had no clue if it entailed to him. 

“It’s your inauguration day, sir.” The guard informed him, his grin growing wider. That got LavaQuake’s attention, his eyes growing wider. He closed the door and pulled the chain out of the lock. Allowing him to open the door further. As soon as he did, the guard’s grin shifted to a smile. He stepped to the side and LavaQuake was greeted by six Fuegan guards carrying trumpets and blowing into them. What came out was the national Fuegan tune for electing a king or president to power. Two more Fuegan guards in the same golden colored armor with purple tint walked in between the six trumpet players. One of them held a scroll and appeared immensely pleased for his role. LavaQuake took a cautious step back as they got closer. When they were two meters away, they paused and bowed with their heads in respect. Almost like he was someone to be worthy of. 

When the guard was ready, they rolled out the scroll in front of them and began to read off of it. “Mr. LavaQuake, you have been voted in as our official President for 21008 to 21014. You have a duty to protect the constitution and serve under its rules. It’s your job to present bills, decline those you do not agree to, and ensure the safety of all civilians. You are obligated to follow suit for a full month before the passage of leaving is acceptable. We all respect and honor your wishes, president LavaQuake. Now please sign at the bottom of this scroll to confirm that you’ve been properly inaugurated." The guard presented the scroll in front of him and handed a feather with ink. LavaQuake hesitantly took the ink covered feather. However, he didn’t immediately write his name as his eyes shifted to the guards. I can’t believe it, I won? Even after strolling out? 

“I… I don’t get it.” LavaQuake told them in disbelief. “But I pulled out of the race last minute.” He explained, turning his attention to the other guard for answers. 

The one holding the scroll spoke first. “You did and we honored it. However, even though we removed you from our listing, we ended up receiving more than twenty-eight thousand votes versus six thousand.” LavaQuake was in awe after hearing this. How? Why me? What makes me so trustworthy? I just stated the facts. “The civilians asked for you so we did what was best. Now, please sign.” The guard exclaimed, gesturing the scroll towards him. 

“And if I don’t?” He asked, raising an eyebrow. The guards’ expressions faded to half frowns and disgust. 

“Then you’ll be arrested for treason.” LavaQuake gulped when he heard this. He glanced down at the spot where his signature was required. He took a deep breath, hesitant on taking the position that he turned down. If I refuse, I will go to prison for six years and be treated awfully. My reputation would be ruined. If I sign, then I’ll be responsible for the decisions of everyone. Either way, I sacrifice my normal life. Which is why I know which option I should choose. He sighed and began to write his signature down on the line. The guards watched intently as he moved the ink covered feather quickly yet carefully on the paper. LavaQuake pulled his claw away, letting the guard fold the scroll. “Wonderful, we are glad to have you President LavaQuake. Shall we escort you to your palace?” 

“M-My palace?” LavaQuake was shocked to hear this. I get my own place? Even better than this crappy place? He glanced back at his house, one story with horribly constructed walls and windows. 

“Yes sir. That will be your permanent residence for your whole term. You’ll not only be safe there, but you will have all of your responsibilities waiting there for you.” LavaQuake glanced back at his house and sighed. He didn’t know what to feel, but a part of him should’ve refused. He held out a paw to stop the guards in their place. He turned and stepped back into his house to begin preparing for his departure. He grabbed what he needed and left, locking the door behind him. 

“Will my house be safe?” He asked, turning to face the other guards. 

“Of course sir.” The one on his left informed, “It will be watched over and covered of all its suspenses.” LavaQuake was relieved to hear that. He waved them on to take him to where they needed him. He didn’t protest, only accepted his predicament. As they walked away and made their way through Fuegolis. He was greeted by the crowd of civilians clapping and cheering from seeing him. Fans that loved him for something so innocent. He felt warmth in his heart from the compliments and gratitude. It wouldn’t be long until LavaQake came across his parents around a corner. Their expressions twisted as soon as they saw him surrounded by guards. They shifted to amazement and disbelief, rushing over to him like they forgotten the last week. The guards were about to stop them until LavaQuake held out his paw to stop them. They stepped back and allowed his parents to approach. 

“Oh my gosh honey, you won! We are so proud of you!” Bretta beamed with excitement and happiness. 

“You are the son I’ve always wanted.” Osin said after her, a noticeable smile forming on his snout. LavaQuake glared at them silently, his brows furrowing. Neither of their words impressed or uplifted them. Instead, it only brought up anger from within him. They fucking won. Those bastards. He didn’t say anything for a long moment. His angry aura was likely strong enough to notice because they started to shift uncomfortably. Their expressions drooped the longer LavaQuake stared at them. 

Then, that was when the very words he’s been saving slipped out. No longer suppressing it after so long. “I hate you two.” The guards exchanged small single second glances towards him after saying this. His mother gasped and his father frowned and cocked his head back startled. “I wanted to be something that wasn’t your vision. Instead, now I have to waste six years in a position I never asked for. I hope you’re so fucking happy of yourselves for making me even more depressed than I already am.” LavaQuake growled, making sure it was loud enough for other civilians to hear him. His parents were sinking into themselves as they noticed the nearby crowd of Fuegans. All of whom were giving them nasty looks like they committed a sin under Satin himself. “After this… You will never see me again.” LavaQuake gestured for his guards to continue moving. 

As they did, Osin’s face went red and he started to yell. “You were always selfish! You will regret cutting us out you little brat!” LavaQuake paid it no mind, forcing new thoughts to enter his head to distract himself. When he was far enough away, he could finally breathe. After strolling through the city, they arrived at the palace. It wasn’t large, but it was still far more impressive than his own home. Two stories, built with care and patience and used the strongest resources available. It had a six meter tall wall and a metal gate. The palace had two five meter tall doors, capable of allowing any dragon to walk through. There were skinny slits for windows, potted plants either side of the doors and a walkway along the roof of the first floor. The second floor was smaller but seemed to be where his office was located. 

The guards opened the door for him and he stepped inside. He was greeted by the scent of burnt paper and leather as well as coal. Other Fuegan guards inside honored him with bows of respect. Then a new Fuegan in neater clothing such as a brown tuxedo with a yellow tie. They walk up and shake his paw while grinning delightfully. “Welcome aboard Mr. President. My name is Gasin Pillburg, I will be your vice president and will help you in anything you need done.” He said proudly, before glancing over to his side as five more Fuegans walked over. He stepped away and waved a wing at them. The first that stood to the right of Gasin was a male Fuegan, slightly shorter than the two of them. “This is Joseph Correl, he’s your secretary of treasury.” LavaQuake and Joseph shook paws with each other. 

“It’s a pleasure to be working with you Mr. President.” He declared happily with a grin. 

“Next to him is the secretary of defense. He represents the entirety of the armed forces. His name is Henry Charcoal.” Next to Joseph was a thinner Fuegan with a rounder snout. They exchanged shakes with each other and LavaQuake gave a polite smile. Not wanting to showcase his true feelings around other higher positioned officers. Henry didn’t reply, only gave a small nod. “Next to him is Lavazin Yodan, your secretary of state. She will help you in anything in regards to international decisions and political records.” 

Instead of shaking paws, she gave him a nod. “Pleasure to be serving you, President LavaQuake.” She said, forcing her tone to be low and calm. Almost like she didn’t want to be overly excited. 

To her right was a Fuegan that was medium built with sharper edges. He also wore a hat that had feathers on the side. “Next to Lavazin is Mr. Hazel Gavel, he will be your attorney general. He will keep you updated on legal matters and assist you in learning them as well.” He took off his hat in respect. “And last but not least is the secretary of health, run by Mr. Kan.” LavaQuake shook their claws politely and exchanged grins. He was slightly larger than LavaQuake and had skinnier arms and legs. “Now let me show you everything you need to know so you can get started on your first day.” Gasin guided LavaQuake along, beginning to show him around the palace. The five Fuegans walked away to resume their own jobs. LavaQuake scanned his surroundings in awe and also disbelief. Being in such a place like this was unbelievable. He couldn’t tell if he was having a dream or not. 

Gasin showed him around the palace, different rooms such as the meeting room for all of the secretaries, a kitchen that had its own chefs, a training room, a mini gym, his own bedroom, the library, a room that contained the tribe’s remaining magical artifacts, the vault, a two guest rooms, gaming room, and a war planning room. LavaQuake was amazed by the different types of rooms presented to him. So many rooms… By the time they were done, Gasin showed him to his office to work from. “And this will be where you’ll work from.” He told him, showcasing a desk in front of windows that also led out to the terrace. LavaQuake looked at the desk, already acknowledging his future self sitting at it. He gulped and glanced at himself, feeling unprepared and lost. How does someone like me adjust to this? 

He took a deep breath and stepped closer to his desk. He ran a digit along the top of it. It was cleaned recently, likely after Basalt left. Before he could sit down, clawsteps from behind entered the room. They paused before a familiar voice erupted from them. “Oh, why isn’t this a surprise?” LavaQuake turned around and found that it was Basalt himself. Speak of the devil. He cursed in his head, rolling his eyes. Unamusement crossed his face as Basalt walked over to the side of the room. “I was kind of hoping to see you in person after the election, heh.” Basalt’s enthusiastic grin didn’t leave his snout, not even after the debate a week ago. 

“Why? So you can rub it in my face that you secretly had a gotcha moment?” LavaQuake called back, which forced Basalt to pause. He looked into his eyes with a smug grin. 

“No, but rather to congratulate you.” He exclaimed, walking over to him. “You should also show respect, my dear president.” He extended a wing and patted LavaQuake on the back. Although, he stayed on guard by eyeing him. “I’m a representative for ya in congress.” LavaQuake raised an eyebrow but didn’t respond. He simply watched silently as Basalt turned away and grabbed a suitcase sitting off to the side. When he picked it up and turned towards the door, he met his gaze one last time. “You’re quite lucky to get this position after dropping out last second. I wish you luck. I hope we can spar again for the second term.” His grin faded and he left the room. Leaving LavaQuake to himself with the vice president quietly watching from the sidelines. 

“You okay sir?” Gasin chimed in, turning to him with a concerned look on his face. LavaQuake walked over to his desk and ran a digit along the top of it. There was a large thick leather book latched inside a casing. On the top of it was the name of it. Which described the book as a codex of all the president’s powers. Often used as a guide for a new president if need be. Especially considering everyone below him wasn’t capable of telling him what to do. LavaQuake couldn’t remember which president was the one to install it. However, there was a painting displayed on the nearby wall that represented the entire cabinet of Fuegolis. LavaQuake remembered that there was a civil war between a monarch system and a presidential government. Which eventually ended in them combining their positions during a peace treaty, officially ending the civil war. Which had nothing to do with the twelve gods. Even though Aestraf hated the divide and tried everything to stop it. 

After a long moment of standing there, he forgot that Gasin was staring behind him. He turned around and locked eyes with him. “I’m fine, thank you.” He told him politely, nodding his head as he gave a half smile. 

“If that’s the case, I shall let you get comfortable. If you need anything, don’t be afraid to ask.” Gasin gave him an approving nod, then turned to leave LavaQuake alone. Once he left the room, LavaQuake walked around the desk until he was behind it. He sat down and began inspecting the drawers and cabinets. He found a variety of items, including folders neatly tucked away. As well as closed jars of ink in different colors. In another drawer, there were books lined up together that were about other legal topics. He decided to ignore them and check the rest of the storage units. None of which seemed to ease his anxiety and worry about his situation. He sat up straight and let out a long sigh of defeat. I really am stuck here for an entire month. He couldn’t believe that this was reality right now. Hopefully it won’t be too bad, right? 

He got up from his desk and decided to check his bedroom up close. The other government officials exchanged nods with him as he passed them. Some who LavaQuake recognized to be representatives in congress seemed like they wanted to say something. However, they kept their mouths shut and continued on their way. When he reached his bedroom, everything was cleaned and washed. Which made the bed even more appealing for him to lay down on. He walked around the bed, deciding to check the dresser and the bedside tables. He wanted to see what resources and items they were giving him access to in arm’s reach. When he couldn’t find anything besides readily available clothing for him to wear. There was nothing else of importance he could find. He let out another sigh and sat down on his bed. It immediately felt soft and comfortable as soon as his behind made contact with it. 

As he checked how empty the room was. Despite knowing that he was only going to be there for a month when he got the chance to leave. LavaQuake felt like he should grab some more personal belongings so he could settle down. He didn’t want to be there without at least making his stay more pleasant and not like a hostage. He walked out of the room and approached a Fuegan guard. Who stood off to the side like a statue. When LavaQuake walked in front of him, he saluted with a wing. “President LavaQuake! At your service!” He exclaimed with enthusiasm. 

“Can you escort me to my house? I have some stuff that I’d like to take from there to personalize my stay here.” LavaQuake requested the guard. They showed no resistance to the request, saluting him again before motioning to two other guards nearby. He ordered them to come with, then accepted for LavaQuake to take the lead out. Once they left the palace, they made their way out through the front gate. Where they would now be exposed to the civilians of Fuegolis. Amongst them were no signs of his parents, which he was thankful for. He didn’t want to deal with any more family drama today. 

As he made his way through the city. The solid sandstone mixed with other stone materials made up each of the buildings. LavaQuake saw residents scattered about, some appearing depressed whilst others were hanging around. Whispers began to erupt amongst the civilians, even to some of their dragonets. The expressions on the younglings’ faces as soon as they saw him lifted his spirits. Never before did he expect children’s pure awe of him would cheer him up. Maybe because he used to be just like them. Confused and uncertain a world where grownups made decisions that made no sense to them. 

By the time LavaQuake arrived at his house. There were two Fuegan guards standing either side of his front door. They saluted him with their wings and asked whether he was there to stay or not for the night. He declined and requested entry, which was confirmed by his escorts. When he was given the clear, he unlocked the door and stepped inside. His escorts remained by the front door, keeping it open. Not wanting to give him too much privacy so he could be in their sights. 

LavaQuake went around his house, debating what to take. He had an old violin that he used to play. As well as drawings that he kept with him from when he was a kid. He found his folded up boxes in his closet. The same ones that he used when he first came out. He took them and started to pack some small items. Including a tiny painting of himself when he was in school, minifigures that he bought from craftsmen, his old sketchbook, and his violin. With his parents hopefully absent from his life now, he could pursue the violin more. He packed it up in its case carefully, ensuring it couldn’t be broken by accident. 

By the time he was done, he closed his box and headed out the front door. The other Fuegan guards waited for him, both bored and tired like they’ve been on duty for well over twenty-four hours. One of them offered to carry his box of items. When the second guard asked to take his violin, he refused. He held it tighter to his chest whilst wrapping it around his body. Then they all left, locking the door behind them and beginning to head back to the palace. 

Doing so resulted in LavaQuake being required to see the other civilians of Fuegolis. The children stopped playing just to look up at him. He ended up pausing once one young female Fuegan dragonet. Looking to be five years old approached him. He didn’t like the idea of it, but LavaQuake sniffed her scent. Letting his abnormal powers do the work. The dragonet didn’t notice and simply stared up at him nervously. She even fidgeted with her claws like she was meeting her personal hero. 

A long line of information filled his mind, causing him to freeze from the overload of it all. Her parents were right behind her. Neither seemed to have hurt her, but she has expressed fear from what LavaQuake could describe as parental disagreements. The young female dragonet was anxious yet excited. He discovered her nervous tensing in the wings, clenching against her sides like his larger size intimidated her. Then another scent wormed its way into his nostril. This one had made contact with her recently, but not for long. The emotions she felt that moment seemed to be horror and the act of submission. 

After piecing it together in LavaQuake’s mind, it came to him instantly. She was being bullied, whether by school or another family member. The barely recognizable scent seemed to be saliva or close contact, mixing their scents together. LavaQuake lowered his body to meet her level, their gazes meeting. She sunk into herself, lowering her head further shyly. “What’s your name, little one?” 

She didn’t say anything at first, turning her head away anxiously. In the top corner of his eyes, he saw the father walking over. He was slightly smaller than LavaQuake and was skinnier in body shape. “Her name is Fiery Sands.” He mentioned, before quickly changing the subject to LavaQuake. “We are so glad to have you as our president Mr. LavaQuake. Your speech touched all of our hearts. We could heavily relate to you.” LavaQuake glanced up at him and locked eyes. He nodded before shifting his attention back to Fiery Sands. Who had her body pressed against her father’s. His tail wrapped around hers in a protective manner. Then the father’s words broke his empty thoughts and snapped him back to reality. “We idolize you, I hope you know that.” 

“Idolize?” LavaQuake repeated his words back to him. He was taken aback by this and looked straight into his eyes. “Nobody should idolize me, I’m just an ordinary Fuegan like all of you. My family problems are nothing special.” 

“Perhaps not, but…” The father paused, glimpsing back to his wife. Who stood behind him amongst the crowd of other residents. “My father wanted me to vote for the far right. Whenever I said no, he’d mock me and tell me how wrong I was.” LavaQuake stared at the father in awe. Not expecting such a response from him. “As soon as I had the power to leave, I never looked back. For as much as I wish I had him in my life. I realized he chose politics over me, his own son.” 

LavaQuake hung his head, his eyes going to his daughter for a second. “I’m… I’m sorry to hear that.” He admitted, waving a paw in the direction of Fiery Sands. “I see that you don’t regret it anymore though. You have a gorgeous daughter.” He grinned and chuckled, which the father returned with a laugh and smiled widely. 

“Yes.” He wrapped his paw and arm around her. Holding her close to his side like a proud parent. “She’s a very smart young lady, aren’t you honey?” Fiery gave a small noticeable nod. LavaQuake returned to her eye level and motioned for her to approach. She hesitated, glancing up to her father for approval. When he gave it, she started to come closer slowly and cautiously. Once she was close enough, he placed a paw onto her shoulder and leaned into her ear. 

“If anyone tries to pick on you. I want to give you something that’ll help give you confidence to stand up.” She looked at him surprised, unsure how he knew about her bully. He gestured for the box from the guard carrying it. He opened it and pulled out one of the figurines from inside. He took her paw and held it open, before tucking in her palm and folding her digits over it. “I consider him my guardian and you can too.” She unwrapped her claw to find that the figurine represented Aestraf. Fully colored and neatly carved to display in complete detail. Immediately, her expression lit up and she looked up at him in amazement. 

LavaQuake’s smile grew and he patted her on the back. He stood tall and looked at the father again. LavaQuake observed as the Fiery Sands showed her figurine to her father. His expression beamed at the sight, glancing up at LavaQuake. Then LavaQuake turned to continue heading to the palace. Although, not before giving them a small nod. As he walked through the city, he saw the rest of the civilians. Many were minding their own business, while others watched from the side as he passed them. They all appeared to be his supporters, each containing an approving look on their faces. 

LavaQuake would arrive back at the palace rather quickly. He made his way through the gate and passed the front doors. Where he was greeted by chatter from the other government officials below him. Some of them looked his way, but didn’t comment. He continued forth through the palace until he reached his bedroom. He put down his violin case and let the guard with the box place it on the bed. LavwQuake began to pull everything out and set them about the room. His mini painting of himself was the only one he decided to put on his office desk. That’s when someone greeted him from behind. 

“Mr. President!” LavaQuake turned around to find that it was four representatives of his. The one on the far right stepped forth with a folder full of files. He handed it over like he was a teacher passing assignments in a classroom. Yet his demeanor and the way he moved expressed professionalism. “We need you to overlook some legislation that was passed from the previous term under King Basalt.” 

The one beside him was carrying another folder. He passed it over after the first. “And we need these signed by you as soon as possible. They are funding bills that need to be checked over.” LavaQuake looked at the folders in his claws. And here we go, the boring work begins. The other two stepped forward after the first two were done speaking. “Finish them when you can, sir.” Then they turned and left the room. Leaving the last two Fuegans alone with him. 

“We have something that we’d like to pass through you, Mr. President.” The left one LavaQuake’s right exclaimed. 

“Please, just call me by my name.” LavaQuake interjected with a raised claw. 

“My apologies.” The one on the left chimed in. He cleared his throat and started over. “LavaQuake, we have a proposal for something that we’d like to do for the civilians of Fuegolis.” They said it like they wanted to do him a favor. Which was a tone that gave LavaQuake a bad taste in his mouth. 

He stepped back until his rump touched the desk. He plopped the folders on top and looked them both straight in the eyes. “I’m listening.” He inquired, sitting and folding his arms across his chest. 

“We wish to construct a tourist contraption in the city. We want to make it envision the Fuegolis dream and how special it is to live here.” The one on the right explained, but his words made it feel vague and suspicious. He motioned for them to continue, not giving a comment yet. “It will contain shops and stalls, as well as a massive history lesson on Fuegolis’ most important moments. We want to make it appealing to children the most.” They said the last thing like it’s a selling point. 

“Have you drawn out plans for this?” LavaQuake asked, curious. 

“Not yet, we wanted to run it through you first. That way we don’t waste our time documenting it all and then having you decline it.” The one on the left mentioned, which made LavaQuake bite his lips softly. He stared at them as he debated whether the idea was a good one or not. 

LavaQuake stood, went around his desk and sat in his chair. He pulled the other folders closer to him. Then his eyes shifted to the windows behind him. They didn’t overlook the city, but he was able to see the sky above. His thoughts went back to the civilians of Fuegolis, then to his speech at the final debate. Where he stated that a good leader listens to the people and what they want. He turned around to face them, coming to a decision. “Ask the Fuegan civilians first to see what they want. Then come back to me.” 

The two of them weren’t expecting such a response. They glanced at each other confused, the one on the right scratching their neck. The one on the left broke the silence. “Um, sir? How do you expect us to do that?” 

LavaQuake tilted his head and gave them a look like they were stupid. “Do a poll? Ask around, get results. Not one sided, both sides. I want to see clear opinions from all parties.” They both stood there for a long moment, unsure of what to say. Then LavaQuake sighed and spoke, waving them off. “This tribe was built to accept their voices, so do it. I’ll hear about it once you have evidence to suggest they are okay with it. For now, I need to be alone so I can work on this.” He lowered his head to the folders in front of him and opened the first one. Despite his reluctance, he got to work. Wanting to get it all done before he headed to bed. 

Looking through all of the paperwork, he ended up signing half of what was presented. Some of which he had to do a double take and reread them. The others he set off to the side to decline. All of which LavaQuake considered to be against what the residents needed. The ones he signed were medical insurance coverages, food and water providers for those in need, education, and various other institutions made for the needy. When he was done, he moved onto the next folder. This one contained a long list of laws that Basalt declared during his first six year term. 

He had to call for assistance from his attorney general. Who was able to help him through each document carefully and translate each text into proper English for him to understand. As he went through, it became clear that nearly every law presented to him was not only vague, but barely changed anything meaningful. The laws that Basalt declared in his term seemed useless, while being marked up as amazing to a lot of residents. When they got to the end of the folder. LavaQuake felt trapped yet disappointed with these findings. “Thank you.” LavaQuake nodded to Hazal Gaval, the attorney general. 

Once Hazal left, LavaQuake was beaten from the long day. He yawned, glancing out the window to find it was dark now. He got up from his desk and headed to his new bedroom. Which seemed so soft and comfortable that LavaQuake would die from it alone. He told the other government officials, including Gasin goodnight. They returned the gesture as he went into his bedroom. Which was guarded by two Fuegans fully guarded in armor and holding a spear in place. He made his way to his bed and lay down in it. Due to it being more comfy than his home’s, he would end up passing out in a matter of seconds. 

Nearly three weeks into his presidency, LavaQuake continued his duties. He signed and declined documents that didn’t align with what the Fuegan citizens wanted or what he wanted to see more of. He was counting down each day, preparing to finally resign from his position once the month was over. The third weekend of his presidency arrived and LavaQuake was tired. He sat at his desk, bummed out about everything and where he was. Then he got an idea, forcing him to stand. 

He headed out of his office and gestured to two guards to come with. He left the palace through the front gate. He was thankful to find no sign of his parents still. He hadn’t seen or heard from them since two days after he was inaugurated into presidency. They tried to get his attention so they could talk to him. Security made sure to send them home and even ban them from getting too close to him. That’s when it became eerily quiet from his family. Which ended up becoming very anxiety-inducing for him since he knew how they functioned. People like his parents never stayed silent for long. 

For this day, he was lucky not to have to worry about them for now. His two guards escorted him around the city to get fresh air. As well as getting the chance to exercise his legs. As he wandered around the city, he saw the Fuegan civilians going about their lives like nothing had changed. There were a lot of staring and glances his way. However, almost none of them ever came to talk to him up close. Just like with Fiery Sands and her parents, they all seemed to silently idolize him. Which LavaQuake still hated the fact that everyone considered him more than an average joe. 

As he strolled through the city, he eventually encountered a strange sight. Three large muscular Fuegans were pulling items out of a house. At first, LavaQuake thought they were the homeowners moving out. He was going to continue moving when another Fuegan rushed out of the house. Their maw opened and a fire ball erupted from them. It impacted the back of the head of one of them. “Give me my stuff back!” He shouted, skinnier and smaller than them. 

The buffier dragon turned around after setting the items in their claws down. They approached the shorter one and pushed them to the ground. Causing the shorter one to flop over to their side. “Just like what the document stated, it's Mr. Denroe’s property now!” The larger dragon huffed through their snout. They turned back around and grabbed their stuff from the ground. As they left, the guards on either side of LavaQuake scoffed. However, they didn’t move nor try to investigate the situation presented before them. 

LavaQuake glanced at them, raising an eyebrow. Then he made his way over to the shorter dragon still on the ground. They didn’t notice LavaQuake approaching them, still staring at the ground in shame. “Are you okay?” LavaQuake asked, holding out his paw to pull him up. They met his gaze and their expression lit up from the sight of him. They took his paw and LavaQuake helped them up onto all fours. 

“P-President LavaQuake!” They stammered, shocked by his appearance. “What are you doing here?” They asked, rubbing their chest from when they were pushed. 

“I’m just on a walk around the city.” He assured him. “I saw what was happening and wanted to see what’s going on in person.” He mentioned, observing the dragon’s face twist before settling on sadness as they remembered their current situation. He shrugged as his eyes darted back to their house. 

“The shop owner wanted my property back.” He exclaimed sadly. “Came to my house with a document stating that it’s not mine anymore. I don’t know what to do anymore. I don’t have money to buy new ones.” He hung his head, unsure of what to do. LavaQuake gave him a remorseful look, glancing over to his house. Then he let his thoughts rush into his head as realization struck him. He had completely forgotten about how property management is done in Fuegolis. 

When it comes to properties, they are very lenient. Shop owners and craftsmen can force their property to be returned. The same includes for old home owners retrieving property from new tenants and owners. Property laws don’t extend to properties themselves like homes and businesses. It also doesn’t include pets as well. The laws affect normal dragons’ lives, no matter if they are rich or poor. It also doesn’t include the government as well, since problems could arise if that was the case. 

LavaQuake had never dealt with such issues before. However, he knew from numerous stories how negative people thought of the laws. He tilted his head as his thoughts began to force him to ponder whether to do something about it. Seeing a civilian experiencing these laws taking into effect. It gave no benefit to anyone besides the higher classes. He couldn’t even remember the last time a single victim ever got anything out of it. He sighed and raised a wing up to the dragon in front of him. “I’m sorry, I wish I could do something to help you.” 

The dragon sighed, waving him off politely. “It’s fine, I’ll figure out a way to get my stuff back.” With that, the Fuegan turned to their house and went back inside. LavaQuake watched in silence, numerous thoughts ravaging his mind. What was worse about property is that it was illegal to purchase stuff from other tribes. Not only that, but it was heavily forced upon the civilians to rely on Fuegan manufactures. What did LavaQuake think about it? For the longest time, he was fine with it. Now with seeing how much of an impact it made on innocent lives. He was beginning to grow a form of hatred over it. 

LavaQuake turned back and returned to his guards. He decided to end his walk around Fuegolis early. They made it back to the palace in less than three minutes. As soon as LavaQuake stepped inside, his eyes searched around for Gasin. Once he found him, he stomped over with a serious look on his face. Gasin glanced up and paused when he spotted LavaQuake’s expression. He wasted no time checking up on him. LavaQuake didn’t hold back as he fully turned to face him. “I want to fix those property laws that we have in place.” 

Gasin wasn’t expecting that, so he gave LavaQuake an odd look. “Um, why? What’s wrong with them?” 

LavaQuake’s face twisted to disbelief from his ignorance. “You tell me. What do you think of having your stuff taken by cronies?” 

Gasin shrugged his shoulders and sat. “I don’t know, I’ve become used to it.” He admitted, showing no sign of concern or judgement on the matter. “The law is the law.” He added, shrugging again.

“Seriously?” LavaQuake inquired, giving him a look like he was stupid. “You don’t think it’s bad that previous owners, regardless of how you obtained what you have, can just take it back without question? That dragons can create fake documents just to steal?” He probed, watching Gasin’s oblivious face and demeanor. LavaQuake growled in annoyance when Gasin refused to reply. “I guess I will do it on my own, then.” LavaQuake turned to head to his office. 

When he arrived at his office, he headed over to behind his desk. He grabbed a sheet of paper neatly folded in one of the cabinets. He put it onto his desk and began to write onto it. He made sure to keep it professional and straight to the point. By the time he was finished, it was an official letter to his house of representatives. Which outlined his concerns and his desire to work towards fixing the laws of property management. He folded it and slipped it inside a letter. Once it was all ready to go, he looked up to where two guards stood. They weren’t the same escorts, but that didn’t bother him. “Hey, can one of you take this to Basalt?” 

The two of them glanced at each other. Then the guard on the right came over and took the letter. He nodded before departing from the room. That wasn’t the only thing he wanted to do. He thought about how many Fuegans called him out for his lack of activity. Particularly activity that expressed his desire to make changes. LavaQuake previously didn’t care and he was waiting for his chance to leave. Now, he knows exactly what to do. 

LavaQuake stood from behind his desk. He walked around it and towards the doors. Once he left the room, he gestured to two guards to follow him. They exited the palace and began to make their way back through the city. This time, he had something in mind that he wanted to share with everyone. He wanted to see first hand what everyone thought of his idea. By the time he reached the center, where the town house was located. There were hundreds of Fuegans going about their lives. This is a good spot. He confirmed in his mind. 

He walked up the steps of the town house. Where turned to the civilians littering the road. He ordered the guards to get the megaphone that was held inside the townhouse. Then he faced the civilians that were now beginning to approach him one by one. Almost like they already suspected that he had something important to say. Once one of the guards returned with the megaphone. He held it up to his snout, and kept his voice leveled. “Attention everyone!” This caused every head in the vicinity to turn to him. 

“I have an important announcement to make! I have come to the conclusion of what I’d like to do as president.” The expressions of many Fuegans in the crowd lit up when they heard this. They quickly started to approach him like he was about to say something sacred. “For years without the twelve gods, Aestraf’s guidance is no longer present in our society. I have decided that the best thing for us is to repair the damage caused from the neglect. We have built an economy and governance where you don’t own anything you have, unless you directly made it. With that being said and as president of Fuegolis, I will be working to abolish these laws.” 

The expressions of the crowd shifted. Many were shocked and their maws opened in pure awe. Others were skeptical of the decision, then the very few seemed displeased or upset. “I want everyone to live safely, freely, and happily. Nobody should dictate when you have to return a table, a stove, or even the bed you sleep on.” This caused many dragons in the crowd to start clapping and cheering. The small few were hesitant, which told LavaQuake everything he needed to know about which side they were on. He guessed they were craftsmen or shop owners. 

LavaQuake handed over the megaphone to his guard. He smiled widely as he listened to all of them cheer and clap in approval. After a half hour of LavaQuake speaking with journalists and reporters. He left the center and returned back to the palace. He expected that the letter he sent had been read by Basalt and the other representatives by now. He went into his office like nothing had happened and returned to his work. For more than an hour, the palace was silent from the tense air around them. 

As LavaQuake was working on paperwork. His office door was barged open, revealing Basalt and two other representatives behind him. They all wore a neat brown leather tuxedo over the front of their scaly bodies. “Mr. President!” Basalt declared as he entered the room. While he had a grin over his face. Behind it, LavaQuake could see a mixture of anger and fear. 

LavaQuake leaned back and sneered as he approached. “Ah, Mr. King Basalt. Do you have more jokes to throw my way?” 

“No!” He slapped down a newspaper onto the desk in between the two of them. “What the hell is this? Care to explain to me what this is about?” He asked, gesturing to it. LavaQuake glanced down to find an article with a black and white sketch drawing depicting LavaQuake banning stealing. Which summed up everything perfectly in how best he described the laws he wanted to remove. LavaQuake met Basalt’s gaze and gave him an oblivious glare. 

“What? What’s the problem?” He asked in a tone like he was dumb. 

“Do you have any idea what you are doing? You are declaring war on the high and middle classes.” He pointed to the article with a single digit. “You have officially made yourself and all of your possessions a target.” He explained, his voice stern and cold. 

“It’s not their property anymore.” LavaQuake stated with a shrug. 

“Yes it is, it always has been theirs.” Basalt corrected him. Which by the law it was true, but technically it wasn’t. It was almost like LavaQuake was simply babysitting another dragon’s items. However, instead of being paid to do so, he was paying THEM to even have the gull to have it. Then it can be taken away at any point. Which to other tribes could be considered a scam. 

LavaQuake leaned in over his desk and looked him over more closely. He wasn’t scared nor worried. “I want you to tell me why we are the only government on this island that has these kinds of rules.” LavaQuake requested, watching Basalt’s expression twist and turn a few times. He didn’t have an answer as he glared at him with fury. Yet, the same grin hadn’t faltered from his face. Almost like he wanted to pretend everything was fine despite his inner emotions telling him otherwise. “Are you telling me it’s fair for the working class to have no access to property and personal possessions? That it’s okay to suck in all of their money into dragon’s claws that don’t deserve it and have no guarantee of ownership?” 

“You are messing with the wrong group of dragons.” Basalt warned. 

“If these are the wrong kinds of dragons, then maybe I should go through with it.” LavaQuake stated, looking him straight in the eyes. 

Basalt took a second to take a deep breath. Relaxing himself from the rage boiling inside of him. “Mr. President.” He exclaimed slowly, like he was a parent talking down to their child. “As your representative, I will do what I can to help. However, if you start losing your things. Then don’t come to us surprised as we have warned you about it.” LavaQuake gave him a simple nod, acknowledging his words. Then Basalt turned and walked out with one of the other reps. The last one on LavaQuake’s left stayed behind with a concerned look on his face. 

“Something you want to add?” LavaQuake inquired, turning to him next. 

“I just want to let you know that previous rulers who’ve challenged this have perished under mysterious circumstances. I just hope you know what you’re doing, Mr. President.” LavaQuake looked at him longingly, taking in his words like they were advice. Which only further proved that he was doing the right thing. 

“I appreciate your concern and it only confirms that I must do this.” The representative nodded, stayed there for another two minutes. Then they turned and left the room, leaving LavaQuake to himself besides the two guards once again. He glanced out the window behind him to the darkness covering the sky. Confirming to him that another long work day has passed for him. He stood and packed his work sheets. Before walking around his desk and heading to his bedroom. 

He said goodnight to his guards as he left the room. When he reached his personal bedroom, he stepped inside and immediately hopped onto his bed. A yawn came, proving how exhausted he was. He lied down, rested his head onto the pillow and covered himself in the blanket. As he closed his eyes and let the bed force him to sleep. LavaQuake thought about the upcoming days and the hopeful future he couldn’t wait to bring. By the time he was done, every Fuegan could keep their property without the risk of it being taken. With that desired thought concluded, he passed out in the comfortable embrace of his bed. 

Glacier Glaze

(21008:  1 week after Book 8)

It hadn't even been a month and Glacier has run out of options for places to stay. She tried to get access to her new home she bought in Antarctic City. Unfortunately, she was only able to stay there for three days before Avidan kicked her out. Apparently, Glacier was a complete fool and accidentally bought it using the kingdom's finances. Which legally made the house part of the kingdom itself, not her. That also meant that Glacier had to find other places she could live. 

Glacier was able to live in an old relatives house for the time being. However, that ended up not lasting as long as she wanted. Her relative complained about her supposed ‘instability’ before kicking her out entirely. It infuriated Glacier to no end. She wanted to give them stern punishment for kicking out an ex queen such as herself. The problem was, if she tried doing anything close to that, she could get in big trouble. She had no immunity anymore, making her vulnerable to punishments. 

My own daughter is going to regret screwing with me. Just she wait, I will find a way to get my revenge. Glacier had one final contact that could help her. They were known to be a little crazy, crazier than her in fact. But that didn't matter, it was better than living on the streets. I will not tolerate this kind of disrespect. She inwardly thought to herself as she soared across the city. Her eyes caught a glimpse of the rusty run down building ahead of her. It was widely known to contain squatters. Which wasn't something Glacier was overly fond of. But what other choice did she have?

Glacier's paws landed softly against the snowy ground. They sank beneath the snow from her weight. Which forced her to walk slower up to the front door. She raised a clenched paw and knocked on it. Using as much force for anyone inside to hear. As she waited, she turned and examined her surroundings. She found other Frigidians minding their own business. They didn't even seem to recognize her or look her way. She made a noise and looked back ahead at the door. She didn't hear any noises or someone coming over to greet her inside. 

Then she turned and started to roam around the building. It was made of stone, the windows were thick, transparent, unmeltable ice. There were some spottable holes and cracks carved into the walls. Icicle droppings formed into the bottom of the overhang of the roof. When she got to the back of the building. There was another door, this one leading to the basement. That's when she stopped and her ears caught the sounds of chatter. Intrigued by this, she walked over, headed down the steps and knocked on the door. This time, she struck it by the full force of her paw. 

She heard the chatter stop abruptly, followed by shuffling and objects clanging against each other. Then whispers were exchanged between multiple occupants. Glacier remained standing in front of the door, blinking and staring ahead as she waited. Despite her impatience rising, she needed to stay calm. Thankfully, pawsteps made their way over and the door opened. Revealing a familiar male Frigidian wearing a gray hoodie, a necklace with a pendant shaped of a snowflake. He had a painted tattoo on his forehead and didn't seem like he brushed his teeth in weeks if not months. Glacier knew him to be Oscar, someone who helped her in legal situations before quitting due to his personal situation. 

“Glacier.” Oscar leaned against the door and stared at her. She saw disbelief, disappointment, and irritation all over his face. It was like he half expected her to come but it was also a bad time for him. “What do you want?” He spoke the question like he already knew the answer, but wanted to hear it admitted out loud. 

Glacier gulped as she felt nervousness wash over herself. Her eyes remained glued to him as she opened her maw to speak. “I apologize if I am interrupting anything. I came here because I have nowhere else to go. You always helped me out of trouble so I was hoping if you could do one last favor for me.” Oscar looked her up and down. Almost like he was trying to determine whether she was really standing there or not. He blinked a few times but didn't say a word to her. “If you let me stay, I promise not to be a hassle.” 

Oscar moved himself off the doorway and shrugged his shoulders. “This isn't really my house, so I can't really tell you to leave. So, I suppose it will be okay. But, I want you to be separated from me.” She nodded, not finding any issue with that. He stepped to the side, letting her come inside. She did so while Oscar closed the door behind them. As she walked inside, she found herself standing in a damp room with no windows. Four other dragons stood around paint and candles. Each Frigidian wore nearly the exact same thing as Oscar did. Two of them looked like they were in rough conditions. Any dragon would tell you that they were addicts. 

“Who is this, Oscar?” One of the Frigidian's asked, gesturing over at Glacier. Despite them checking her over, they didn't seem to know who she was. Even though it has only been a week since she was queen of Frigidia. 

“I am Glacier, I used to be your-” Glacier was about to say, but Oscar cut in. He lowered her claws with his own and looked straight towards the Frigidian that asked the question.

“She's homeless and has nowhere else to go. I'm letting her stay in the other spare bedroom.” Oscar attempted to shoo Glacier away. However, her size and resilience to move from her spot made it feel like moving a brick wall. Glacier inspected the paint and the candles on the floor. Each Frigidian was also carrying a plate and a candle. Something that Glacier didn't see before due to her eyes adjusting to the new light level. 

“What is going on here?” She questioned, pointing at the four stranger dragons. 

“Oh great.” Oscar facepalmed like he expected something she didn't know. One of the skinny unhealthy Frigidians chimed in. They were female and were the shortest amongst all of them, including Glacier. Their voice was full of enthusiasm like the question sparked motivation within them. 

“We are contacting the great seeker of all things wonderful!" She declared with a full toothed grin. 

“What she means to say, we are reaching out to a never before seen god. Would you like to join us?” Glacier furrowed her brows and glanced over to Oscar. He was shaking his head and covering his eyes with his paw. It was as if he found this embarrassing to him. “So many have seen them. They say that they live far away and promise to gift us everything we want. Forgiveness.” 

“Courage!” A third Frigidian beside the male addict Frigidian announced excitedly. 

“Love~” The fourth male Frigidian mentioned in a flirtatious tone, their face shifting to a look like they were daydreaming of someone. 

“And revenge!” The female Frigidian jumped in, their face darkening to a look that told her she had enemies. Hearing that last word interested Glacier, even feeling a smirk cross her snout. 

“Revenge you say?” Glacier started to rub the bottom of her chin with her digits. She began thinking about Avidan and the dragonets that ruined everything for her. Perhaps these dragons could be more helpful than I thought? Even though she didn't believe in the gods existing anymore. As well as the fact these dragons could potentially just be simply crazy. There was a chance she could persuade them to help her get back her throne. Then she could fulfill every one of their desires from her profound power. Although, it also wouldn't hurt to see what they were talking about as well. That way she could better understand their mental stability. “Can I join to see what you mean? It sounds very interesting to me.” 

“Glacier, I don't think-” Oscar was about to say something, but the female Frigidian interrupted him. Her tone was cheery and excited. It was like she's been waiting for someone to offer such a thing. 

“Ooh, yes! Please do! The more the merrier is what they like to say.” She laughed, causing a few chuckles from the other Frigidians around her. Oscar blinked as he stared at his friends. Then he sighed, he turned and walked over to a table with a few things sitting on top of it. Half a dozen unlit candles waiting to be used, as well as three neatly folded gray hoodies. They've been sitting there like they were waiting for someone to join in. 

“Here, wear this.” Glacier took it and raised an eyebrow. Then she looked at Oscar like he was nuts. 

“Are you right in the head? Why do we need hoodies? Aren't we Frigidians and don't need them?” She asked the question like he was supposed to know this by now. 

“That's not why we wear it.” Oscar told her with a dismissive wave of his wing. “It is because we enter a plane beyond our own. We don't want our faces to be seen by random wanderers.” Glacier scoffed and rolled her eyes. She held the hoodie in her paws like it was going to catch on fire. 

“I don't want to wear this. I'd only wear clothing if it was a dress or something fashionable.” Glacier spat, giving Oscar and the hoodie a nasty look.

“Wear the damn hoodie or I will kick you out by force.” Oscar demanded coldly. Glacier cocked her head back and looked at him a little surprised by the outburst. Then she did as he commanded her. Which was weird considering she grew up giving orders to other dragons, not the other way around. Oscar handed her the plate with a candle on it. He lit it using a flint then motioned her over to the group. Positioning her between him and one of the male Frigidians. They all exchanged a look to each other before Oscar cleared his throat and broke the silence. “Alright, let me speak the words to summon him. Everybody, close your eyes and clear your thoughts. He needs room to come in.” 

She gave Oscar a weird look. Unsure whether to believe him or not. This whole thing is already strange, but okay. He mouthed to her to do it anyway. She let out a deep exasperated sigh and did so. She cleared out every thought and memory gushing into her mind. She eased her body's muscles and her breathing, her heartbeat already beginning to slow. Then Oscar's voice cut through the air. “Oh, please oh please our beautiful superior, our leader of cosmic proportions. We are calling out to you now to talk to you. We are sorry for our sacrifice being stolen. We promise to do whatever you command. Whatever you want, we will do for you. All trust and desire lies upon you. Please, give us a sign that you are there. Talk to us.” 

Glacier stood there longingly, listening to her surroundings. She heard the breathing of each Frigidian standing around her. She felt the plate in between her digits, the candle's heat emanating off of it. She felt stupid the longer she stood there with nothing happening. She already wanted to step away and leave. But that was when a voice spoke over all of them. It wasn't like any voice she's heard before. It was booming and deep, full of authority and a creepy aura. “Winged lizards calling out to me. You've called for me and I have arrived to provide what you desire. Speak what you want.” The air no longer felt still and there were no more vibrations from the noises colliding against the walls. It was all replaced with wind and grass being blown.

Glacier opened her eyes to see why she was hearing this. She found herself standing in the middle of an opened grassy field. It was nothing like she had ever seen before. There were no clouds, no distant mountains, not even a sun, the horizon didn't even look like a horizon. It looked like the world was infinite no matter which direction she looked. Then her eyes shifted to Oscar and the other Frigidians facing ninety degrees right of her. She followed their gaze until her eyes met with a strange shadow-like figure. It wasn't completely dark like a shadow, it was gray in color like their hoodies. The figure moved strangely, like it wasn't supposed to be part of their world. 

Glacier's gaze trailed off to movement around them. More of the same kinds of shadowy creatures moved around. None of them seemed to acknowledge either of their presences. They all moved the same as the one in front of them. Her attention was brought back to the one in front of them as it spoke. “You didn't bring forth an offering? What happened to the one you claimed you had?” 

“We are sorry, almighty, one. Everything sort of fell apart after our war ended. We promise to gift you a new one soon. But we'd like to introduce you to a new member.” Oscar told the shadow, turning around and going to Glacier's side. He guided her forth slowly and cautiously. The entity didn't have eyes or a face, but she felt its glare as she approached. When she was close enough, the figure moved sporadically as it inspected her. It didn't speak or make a noise. 

Suddenly, Glacier heard its voice enter her mind. “The one I've been waiting for.” Before Glacier could respond, she felt her entire soul be pulled away. This time, Glacier was standing in a new environment. Glacier barely described it as an environment, but rather in an endless sky in all directions. Still no sun, ground, clouds or even a horizon. “Glacier Glaze. Perfect qualities and one of vengeful spirit.”  

Glacier felt her entire body frozen and her mind struggled to conquer words. Her maw opened and closed, but nothing came out. When she did speak, she was hesitant and nervous. “H-How do you know my name? Who are you?” 

“High status and power can be a blessing… Or a curse.” The voice hissed. Glacier turned in every direction she could, but found no sign of this mysterious creature. The shadow entity was no where to be found now. “Much like in your predicament. Which if I may say, is quite unfortunate. But it is their loss for what they have given up.” 

Glacier paused, unsure how this thing knew about her situation. “Y-You know that much about me? How? Who exactly are you? Are you one of the gods? Skyro?”

“I am many things, called many names, but one name that a distant voice has once called me is… Asmosus. A name nobody needs to know, besides those that interest me.” The voice mentioned, which she now had an official name to call it. Asmosus? “You are one of great statutes, willing to do anything to get your way. That I like. Your past is proof.” Then Avidan heard chatter from her left. She turned to find the environment bleeding into a familiar place. Entranced by this, she found herself walking towards it. She slowly stepped into the stone floor that resembled the old interior of her dining room. Sitting at the table together, was herself and her parents. She was significantly younger than she was now. 

“Mom! I wanted my room to be the biggest around! You promised that you would do it after school!” The young Glacier demanded, slamming her paws against the table angrily. 

Her mother, Queen Hazel, sat beside her husband Dasher. Both looked exhausted, stressed out of their minds and barely able to concentrate. Hazel sighed, rubbing her temples with her digits. “Glacier, can we not do this right now? Your father and I are tired from the long day.” 

“No!” Glacier pointed at her mother in fury. “You promised me! I want a big room! I want a big room! Gimme it! Gimme it now!” She yelled, angry and her tone rising with every time she spoke. 

“Glacier, please don't…” She covered her face with her paw. She waved over at Dasher to stop her. He stood and started to make.his way over to Glacier. 

“Come on, Glacier. We are taking you back to your room for tonight.” He was about to guide her away with his wing. That's when Glacier bit his wing and jumped out of the way before he could grab her. She headed over to the archway to leave, then glanced back at them. 

“If you won't give me a bigger room, I'll destroy your stuff and use your room for myself!” She cried out, then turned and rounded the corner. Glacier stared at the spot where her younger self left. It was worth it. She smirked, glancing over to her parents. Both of them were sulking and whispering to each other. A new passage opened up for her, revealing another familiar memory. She followed through it, finding herself much older than before. If she recalled, she was going to pass twenty in three years from then. Her younger self was standing in front of her mirror. She checked her face then turned and held out her paw. “Mom! Earrings please!” 

Hazel stepped into view with her earrings in her grasp. She handed them over carefully, letting Glacier inspect them. Running her digits over them like she was ensuring they weren't encased in anything lethal. When she was ready, she put them onto her ears. Her mother faintly smiled over her shoulder as she watched. “You look beautiful honey, you look just like a queen should.” Glacier had a smile of her own as she looked at herself in the mirror. At the time, she remembered herself in that exact moment envisioning herself with the crown. Hazel was silent for a long moment, then she spoke hesitantly. “By the way, honey? Me and your mother wanted to let you know that we are expecting a newcomer into our family.” 

Glacier's head flipped around so fast, Hazel flinched. She paused, taking a moment to gather her thoughts while the reveal hung in the air. When she continued, she was more cautious with her wording. “Don't worry honey, we aren't thinking of replacing you. We just want you to be the big sister for your new sibling, okay? None of our plans are changing.” The young Glacier stared at her mother for a long while. The current Glacier remembered that look, it was a mixture of betrayal and calculation. Then Dasher spoke from down the hallway, causing Hazel to look over at the doorway. 

“Hazel, can you come over here for a second? I need your help.” Hazel glanced back at Glacier and nodded. Then she turned and left the room. The young Glacier watched her depart, still that same look of intense inwardly calculation and irritation. Then she turned towards the mirror and stared at herself for a long moment. She breathed in deeply and exhaled. It was a moment of clarity washing over her. Something that Glacier had never forgotten about to this day. The current Glacier watched as the entire scene around her shifted and she found herself standing in front of two white and light blue eggs. They were tucked neatly within thick blankets like a dog bed. The young Glacier walked into view, checked her surroundings before going over and grabbing them. She was careful with them as she took them along. When she found boxes, she grabbed them, unfolded them and placed the eggs inside. She wrote down no return address, only a place for lost dragonets to go. When she was done, she left the palace and went to the kingdom’s personal post office. She handed over the box and let them send it away without further questions. She headed back to the palace and went to her bedroom like nothing happened. 

The environment shifted again to the aftermath. Both of her parents were distraught by the lost eggs. They started blaming everyone besides themselves or even Glacier. They tried to ask her if she’d seen them. She told them that she was in her bedroom the whole day. The present Glacier didn’t say anything and had no emotion as she observed this all unfold. She remembered why she did it. No competition, it has to be me. Then the final two memories showed up. The younger Glacier had stepped into the dining room with the biggest smile on her face. She knew exactly what day it was. It was the day to test herself and determine whether or not she was fit for the queen role. Hazel and Dasher seemed anxious the whole day as they prepared themselves. With the help of other legal entities, they were able to get the test ready and sent to Glacier to take. The scene ended with Hazel taking a deep breath and muttering out loud to herself. “I sure hope this goes well.” 

Afterwards, the young Glacier’s entire world shattered as she heard the news of the test results. She had failed and both of her parents seemed to be in complete defeat. Hazel barely looked Glacier’s way and Dasher looked like he wanted to give up on life. Glacier tried to convince her parents that she could retake it. She even tried to get them to believe that the test was rigged. When nothing worked, Glacier went back to her room to think. That was when everything changed for Glacier. Even if the test showed she was unfit. She wasn’t going to sit back and let it take the throne away from her. Which is when the scene changed again to nighttime. The same day when she failed the test. Glacier was able to pick up the golden apples from the most dangerous garden in the world next to Stellaris. She dismissed the chefs for the night and decided to cook up dinner for all of them. She left out any golden apple slices from her own plate. She made sure none of the guards were present, assuring them that everything would be fine. 

When dinner started and her parents came into the room. They were shellshocked by the freshly made food prepared for them. Glacier pretended to show love and compassion for them. She told them how bad she felt for failing the test. Despite Hazel and Dasher’s hesitation, they joined her at the table. They ate together in silence while Glacier watched them begin to eat. When they were digging further into their meals. Glacier sat innocently and patiently as she ate her own. Then Hazel started to show signs first. She collapsed onto her plate, causing Dasher to stand up. However, the effects were kicking in for him as well. He became dizzy, burping then coughing. As he encroached Hazel, he eventually fell over to his side. Glacier didn’t move as she continued to eat from her plate. When she was finished, she got up on all fours, stepped over to her parents and checked their pulses. When it was confirmed they were both deceased. She screamed as loud as she could at the top of her lungs. Which resulted in the Frigidian guards to rush into the room. Their eyes immediately fell upon Hazel and Dasher on the floor. Panic completely washing over their faces as they attempted to do CPR and use medical supplies. 

The guards did an investigation and found the lethal golden chunks in their food. The guards wanted to blame Glacier but they were all silenced by execution. Anyone else who witnessed and didn’t speak up, were bribed to stay quiet. The chefs were blamed for the incident and announced across the kingdom. Glacier got her crown and made her first speech to everyone. Present Glacier remembered the stares they gave her. A mixture of awkwardness, confusion, and curiosity. Glacier never did anything for them giving her such looks. Present Glacier stood in the doorway of her balcony, watching her old self speak loudly to the civilians below. It was weird getting to relive every moment of this. She finally turned towards the sky like the creature was up there watching her. “Why are you showing me this? Do you find this impressive or something? Anybody with determination would do this.” 

“The fact that you went this far, speaks volumes to me. It tells me that you will go to far lengths to achieve something personal to yourself.” The voice mentioned like it was obvious. “I think… You would be a great leader to serve for me.” 

Glacier blinked as she glared at the sky. “Me?” She pointed at herself like she wasn’t sure if he actually meant that. “I’m sorry, but no. I don’t want any part in serving under someone. I want my throne back and nothing else. That’s why I love the position as much as I do.” She turned and headed back through the doorway. Leaving her younger self to continue expressing her speech to the civilians below. “There’s nothing you can do to give me that.”

“Oh, but there is!” The voice declared, suddenly causing Glacier to be jolted and pulled into a new place. This time, she was looking directly at Avidan and the three dragonets that destroyed everything that she had. They were tied to a wooden pole, wings, arms and necks. They were all blindfolded and gagged with a rope in their maws. Before Glacier could respond or react, she found herself carrying a torch in her right paw. “You know you want it. To get back at those that wronged you.” The voice told her from overhead. “Your own daughter tossed you out of your own castle. Made you homeless and poor. Three dragonets brainwashed her and made her do it all. They are to blame as well.” Then the environment changed again, showcasing a scene that Glacier never wanted to think about again. She was standing in the dining room in front of herself and a Frigidian she remembered to be Avidan’s true father Hindal. He was skinny, had square shoulders and a thick and recognizable jawline. His eyes were just like hers, which was probably the reason she fell for him. He was yelling at her, pointing at the egg that Glacier held in her paws. 

“You slept with me, made me get you pregnant, and you want me to join your little empire as king? Hell no! I’d rather die than ever be around you!” Hindal shouted angrily at her. The younger Glacier didn’t hold back as she gestured the egg in his direction. Hindal flinched and backed away from her. He shooed her away with his paws. “Get that stinking egg away from me you freaking whore!” 

“A dragonet needs a father and I need a husband. You are not going anywhere until you fulfill your duties as a loving parent.” Glacier demanded, holding the egg like it could shatter at any second. 

Hindal laughed, but it was a disgusting one. “You can kiss my flank, you bitch!” He turned and started to leave. Glacier glared daggers at him as he left. 

“If you seriously think of leaving, then FINE! Have it your way you selfish no good hatchling hater! I will make sure your dragonet knows what kind of father you are. Then we’ll see how big and strong you really are!” Glacier hissed, keeping the soon to be Avidan’s egg close to her chest. 

“Go ahead! They’ll find out one way or another about how awful you are!” Hindal shot back, which made the past Glacier growl angrily to herself. When Hindal left, Glacier looked down at the egg in her grasp and scoffed. She held it up into the light in hopes of seeing the young hatchling of Avidan inside. The current Glacier observed the face that her old self gave the egg. She remembered at that moment that she was mere moments from dropping it. Letting Avidan die from the impact of the ground. However, for some weird reason, she never did. She pulled it back to her chest and headed out the room. The present Glacier scoffed from the sight. 

“You blame her for your husband leaving you, isn’t that right? Do you still wish to kill him someday?” Asmosus asked from above. Glacier felt the anger inside of her rise up through her senses. Yes. I want him to know what I’ve had to deal with on my own. Make him pay for leaving me with a child. Her paws clenched into fists as the scene vanished in front of her. Asmosus continued to speak to her, soft and calm. “I can give you all of that and more. Not just your own throne, but a chance for you to make them stop breathing. Your own throne, an empire full of servants that will obey you, and most importantly, a chance of vengeance against all that has wronged you.” 

Glacier opened her maw to speak. She didn’t know what to say to that. Her whole body was screaming at her to do it. It’s what she’s wanted since she hatched from her egg. Not just to be queen, but to have power over everybody. To make dragons obey and do what she says. It didn’t just make her feel powerful, it made her feel noticed and accepted as responsible for them all. Then she started to think about the name Asmosus. She had never heard about it before until now. How exactly was she supposed to trust it? The golden book of Skyro never mentioned that name once. How does she know that Asmosus is really doing this for her? And most importantly, what if this Asmosus is just an abnormal playing tricks on her? She barely knew Oscar enough to the point that it made that part a huge possibility. Glacier glanced away hesitantly. “I don’t know if I should trust you. How exactly can I guarantee that you’ll give me any of that?” 

“You have no way to move forward.” Asmosus replied. “You are stuck, homeless, poor, all of your connections have failed. If you could have a chance to take vengeance and achieve your throne. Wouldn’t you prefer if you were alive by the end of it all?” Asmosus’ words made a lot of sense somehow. It was scary to think about yet also refreshing. Almost like hearing someone confirm her situation made her feel like she had a chance to get back on track. She debated his words carefully in her mind. Wondering whether she should accept his deal or not. Glacier stood there for a long moment before she heard pawsteps approaching from behind. She turned around to find that she was no longer standing in her castle. Instead, she seemed to be in an old castle that Glacier didn’t recognize. It looked abandoned and half destroyed, multiple holes and the windows no longer in place. When her eyes darted forward, she saw someone walking up to her. It wasn’t just any dragon, they didn’t look like a Frigidian and their scales were purely white and light gray in color. They were much larger than Glacier, so much so that they were the tallest dragon she’s ever met. Once they were close enough, stopped in front of her and smiled widely. The voice was no longer Asmosus’, but a sweet yet rough feminine voice. “Come with me, I am your goddess Skyro. I can reward you for all that was promised.” 

“S-Skyro.” Glacier repeated the name like it was sacred. Her eyes widened and her entire body froze. Skyro held out a paw for Glacier to take. Glacier did the same, letting their paws get close to each other. But as Glacier’s paw got too close, Skyro pulled her own away from her. Skyro’s face darkened and Glacier was left with her paw extended towards her. She looked and felt betrayed by the only dragoness that she respected. The one that was lended down the golden diary of her life. She trusted her to keep it safe and she was now standing barely three meters in front of her. 

“But first…” Skyro said in a stern tone. “You must do something for me. If you succeed, the gateway will be opened for your new beginning.” Despite the odd wording, Glacier didn’t think twice about what it could’ve meant. 

“What do you want me to do? Your highness?” Glacier asked with a bow of her head. She closed her eyes out of respect. 

“I want you to kill everyone that stands around you in that room. It will be considered a sacrifice for the future that will be brought upon you. If you fail, then you will not be rewarded with luxury as promised here.” Glacier felt her throat close in after hearing that. Her entire body tensed up as she realized the scope of the request. Yet, she also didn’t feel any form of regret for wanting to go through with it. I get to have my throne back. Everybody that I knew will get to pay the price for their actions. Everything could be mine again if I do this. Her smile grew as she raised her head. Her eyes locked with Skyro’s as she looked down upon her like a giant. 

Glacier felt a sneer cross over her snout. She nodded slowly, officially accepting her deal. “I will do as you command, your highness. Mark my words, you will be greatly impressed by the time I am done.” With that, Glacier felt herself being pulled back into her own body. She gasped for air and opened her eyes. Where she was standing back in the same basement beside Oscar and his friends. They did the same as her like they saw what she had seen. However, none of them looked anywhere close to terrified. It was as if none of them actually saw or heard her conversation with Skyro. Oscar looked around at each of them, checking their pupils before nodding. 

“Well, that went well.” The female Frigidian mentioned, their eyes darting between each of them. 

Oscar turned his attention to Glacier. “How are you feeling after that venture? What did you think of our mystery friend? Did you like him?” He asked, completely oblivious that their friend even had a name. Which was exactly what Asmosus told her about. He never told them their name, only her. That actually made her feel good inside, but she shouldn’t show that to them. Otherwise, they could get suspicious, start questioning her or possibly find out that she was planning to kill them. 

“That was…” Glacier started to say, trying to find the proper words to describe it without seeming off. “A first for me.” She admitted with a slight shrug. 

Oscar chuckled to himself. “It always is, but that’s okay! He is quite friendly and just wants to do good for all of us.” 

“Just as long as we follow his lead.” The male Frigidian to Glacier’s right chimed in. “Everything we dream of will become true. My excitement has never left my senses since I met him.” He chuckled, which made the others do the same. Glacier looked at each of them, smiled and nodded silently. 

Oscar then used a wing to guide Glacier away. He took her through the basement door that led into the rest of the abandoned home. “Let me show you where you can stay for the time being.” Oscar informed her, going through the hallway before finally stopping at a closed door. He opened it, revealing an almost empty room besides a readily made bed. The walls were covered in rust and mold, there were some cracks and holes in a few spots. Oscar gestured over to the bed with a small smile. Which told Glacier that he wasn’t happy or angry about doing this. “This will be where you will stay for the time being. I know it’s not much, but it’s a good thing the owners aren’t here to kick us out.” He laughed to himself. Glacier simply nodded, walking over to the bed and checking that it was cleaned and fresh. It was dusty and dirty like it has been used before. However, whoever previously used it never cleaned it. She hated the look of it and only made her want to kill him further. Oscar gestured out the door with the same small smile on his snout. “If you need me, holler at me, alright?” He left, leaving Glacier alone in her new bedroom. Which she will probably not stay in for long if she does what Asmosus told her to do. All that she has to do now is plan how. 

For the time being, she decided to leave the room and survey each room. As she made her way through the hallways, she found where each room that seemed to be being used. Remembering the memory of her killing her parents now. She knew that she could use the same lethal golden fruits to achieve what she wanted. However, she had a better idea that would save her time and effort. As she surveyed around the rooms, hallways and the abandoned kitchen. Which looked so out of shape that Glacier would've demolished it entirely and started over. 

Glacier picked up a knife in the kitchen. She cleaned it using a clean rag and water from the sink. Then she left before anyone could see her. As the day came to a close and night time fell upon all of them. Glacier listened to the noises slowly dying down. Once it became the perfect form of silence that indicated all of them were asleep. She stepped out of her bedroom and began her hunt. Starting with the closest Frigidian to her own room. Which she recognized to be the other male addict Frigidian. They were sleeping peacefully amongst the blankets, pillows, and dirty sheets. 

Glacier slowly and carefully walked over. When she was standing over them on their right. She inspected them and waited in case they woke up suddenly. When they didn't, she held the knife in her paw tightly. She aimed it downwards before plunging it into their throat. Blood immediately started to spurt out from the wound. They had woken up by this point, in panic and fear. They opened their maw to scream, but Glacier used her ice breath to freeze it over. She continued to stab him until his whole body went limp. She stepped back and stared at the body. Realization struck her fast about what she had just done. 

The longer she stood there contemplating her decision. The harder that the feeling of acceptance overshadowed any guilt that was building up. I'm doing this to get my throne back. I must. I can't stop now. She grabbed the blankets and sheets to cover the body. Despite the blood on her claws, chest and face, she didn't want to stop now. She stepped out of the room quietly, glancing around in case anyone wandered by. When the coast was clear, she proceeded to the next room. Which she found out to be the female addicts room. Her ears perked up to the noises from inside the room. The door was left open by a crack. 

Glacier reached out her paw to open it. Which is where the female Frigidian was seen laying on sheets with a book in her face. They weren't looking in her direction as they continued to read. Glacier stepped further into the room until she was able to shut the door behind her. As she turned her attention to the oblivious Frigidian. Her maw opened and she let out a burst of ice into her face. She let out a sharp noise before Glacier lunged and slit her throat and gouged out her eyes with her digits. Blood got everywhere as the female Frigidian struggled to fight back. Until finally, she stopped moving and her body fell over to its side lifeless. 

Even with all of the blood on Glacier's scales. She didn't want to stop. She still had three more dragons to kill. The body was covered by the blankets. The blood on Glacier's scales were wiped off from the blankets. When she was ready to move to the next one, she left the room. She went to the next room, which had the last two Frigidians. They were sleeping on opposite ends. The one on the right was sprawled out on their back, wings being used as a pillow. The other was rolled up into a ball. When Glacier entered the room, she glanced between the both of them. Then she turned her attention to the one on the left. 

She went over, took a deep breath then used her full weight to keep them down. She used the knife to stab and slice against the neck and chest. They barely moved after waking up before they were dead. As she was about to move to the next Frigidian. She gasped as she realized that they were wide awake now. They looked at her, saw what she did and started to freak out. They got up and attempted to rush to the door. Glacier jumped towards them as they opened the door, nearly about to step out. Glacier rammed her body into them, causing their head and neck to strike the doorway. 

The Frigidian pushed her as she punctured his scales with the knife. He opened his maw to burst out his ice breath. She was able to push his head away as she struck the side of his neck with intense force. Blood began flooding out of his wound as his body fell down to the floor. Glacier stepped back as she observed the Frigidian's movement. As soon as his last breath escaped his nostrils and maw. She let out a deep sigh of relief. Glad to be nearly done with this. She stepped over his body and left the room. The last Frigidian she needed to look for was Oscar. She couldn't leave him alive, even if he helped her in the past. 

She went down the hallway, glancing into each room as she passed them. She walked into the kitchen, looked around, then kept moving forward. It was when she arrived at the next hallway when Oscar stepped into view. Concern was all over his face. He paused as soon as he saw her. He glanced down at the blood on her scales, then the knife, then at her face. Glacier knew that her expression spoke louder than words. Especially after killing four of Oscar's friends. Oscar gulped and took a small step back, looking nervous and scared now. 

“Glacier? W-What did you do? W-Who's blood is that on you?” Oscar pointed at her, gesturing to the crimson spots on her white scales. They might as well have been part of her appearance. Glacier didn't speak a single word. She only started to move closer to him, moving slow and intimidating. Like real prey encroaching their victim. “Glacier? Wh-Whatever you are thinking of doing, please stop. We can talk about this!” 

“I want my throne back. You are in my way of making that happen.” Glacier spat out, glaring daggers at him. She must've looked terrifying to him as his body seemed to be shaking now. He backed away further until his rump made contact with the wall behind him. He glanced, realization starting to envelop him about having no escape route. 

“Glacier, please. This isn't worth it. You can live a great life without it. You don't need-” As he was about to finish speaking. She lunged at him, her knife cutting through his arm. Oscar scratched her with his claws then pushed her off of him. Then he began to run down the direction he came from. Glacier turned and started to chase him. Oscar ran into the kitchen and attempted to grab his own knife. His digits were fidgeting, struggling to pick them up. When he finally did, he swiped it in her direction as she approached. She halted just in time before the blade could hit her. The two of them were circling around each other. “Glacier stop! I will use this! Don't make me kill you.” 

“Asmosus told me to do this. You are in my way of achieving the power I rightfully deserve.” She growled at him, her eyes narrowed at him as she watched his movement carefully. 

“A-Asmosus?” Oscar repeated the name with deep confusion behind its meaning. “Who is that? What are you talking about?”  

“I will get my throne back, if it's the last thing I do!” Glacier raised her voice at him. She swung her tail down at his legs. Kicking them out from underneath him, before swinging her knife down upon him. Oscar barely reacted in time to dodge, rolling his body away. He swung his own knife towards her. She raised an arm, letting the knife cut her scales. He did it again a second time then attempted to stab her. Glacier caught his arms with her own paws. She glared at him in his eyes. He started to open his maw, about to release a burst of ice at her. 

As soon as his ice breath was unleashed, a magical shield blocked him. His maw snapped shut then was caught off guard as Glacier tossed the knife at him. Successfully striking him in the chest and making him fall back. Glacier jumped towards him, yanking the knife out of his grasp from pulling on the blade itself. Which ended up cutting her scales from doing so. She rotated the knife and started to ram the knife into him multiple times. Not even stopping when his body refused to fight back. He gurgled up noises through his maw full of blood. His eyes staring up at her defenseless. 

Once Oscar's body was no longer moving. She sat on her haunches and stared at the sight before her. It was hard to believe that she just killed five dragons in pure blood. She got close with Frost, but never successfully did it. The last time she succeeded in such a task was her parents. However, that was from poison, not mere violence. She scooted back away from Oscar and leaned against the wall. She tossed the knife away from herself. Both the knife and herself was smothered in blood. She panted heavily to herself, trying to reassure herself that she did the right thing. Now that it was done, Asmosus could give her her throne back. 

The longer she sat there, the more the silence filled the air. The ringing in her ears intensified. Her eyes began to dart around the kitchen and dining room. There was no movement, no voice, not even a sign of Skyro. Instead, it was just her sitting on the floor alone with five dead bodies in the same place as her. She slowly started to push herself up on all fours. She looked over at the body of Oscar. He was confirmed dead from the blood pool forming around him. She stared at him for a long while. Then the worry started to creep upon her. 

“I… I did it?” She said out loud, hoping for Asmosus to hear her. “I did what you told me to do.” She started to look around, hoping to catch a glimpse of either Skyro or the shadow figure. She moved from her spot, heading into the hallway. She checked each room, double checking that she didn't miss someone by accident. Glacier hadn't realized how many more rooms there were in this place. She surveyed each room, moved around blankets, objects, and even checked closets. When it was confirmed that the whole house was empty. She checked through the windows to ensure no guards were coming. After doing it all, she was back to standing in the center of the kitchen. 

Oscar's blood has expanded largely since it started. She felt her heart beginning to beat faster and the anxiety of getting caught started to fill her senses. What if what I saw was fake? She decided to sit down for a moment. “No.” She told herself out loud, trying to use her own voice to soothe herself down. “Fuck the universe and fuck the consequences. I did this in hopes of getting my kingdom back. My power. I don't care what happens now. At least I tried. It's not like my life matters anymore. There's nowhere to move forward, so what's the point?” She stood on all fours and shook her head. “I do what I must, no matter what. And nobody is ever going to tell me what to do! Not then, not now! Because I am and will forever be known as Queen Glacier “ 

Glacier felt more confident and proud of herself than ever before now. She sneered as she looked ahead, her body easing and being replaced with self encouragement. That's when she heard something to her right. It came from the dining room. She turned and found a bright magenta colored portal with a purely white force field inside of it. Glacier turned to face it, looking it over like it was alien to her. She had never seen a magic portal before. This was the first time she has seen one with her own eyes. Then she started to approach it cautiously, not wanting to attract any unwanted attention that might be on the other side. 

When she was close enough to the portal. She moved a paw through it. It went through with ease, she felt the energy field move around her arm and paw with elastic electricity. However, it didn't hurt in the slightest. She pulled her paw back towards herself, checked it then started to walk through it. She was slow and careful as she did so. As soon as her head was on the other end. She found herself stepping onto a grass field. She saw mountains in the distance, as well as clouds that were over land. Which didn't seem to be due to a magical artifact, but rather from nature. 

Then her attention shifted to in front of her. That's when everything in her mind froze in complete shock. In the sky, littering the air like they were supposed to be there. Chunks of dirt and stone were floating. As well as several large pieces of land with structures built on top. They were all flying high above the ground like something was keeping them there. There were light beacons reaching towards the sky that looked like they could fry birds or dragons if they flew through them. The final thing that made her freeze was what was closest to her. 

It was a skeleton of a dragon that was so large, it could eat her and a large group of dragons with ease. Its maw was closed, only showing the teeth. There were no eyes, only an empty black void in the sockets. She tried to look around it to its back end, but it was like the dragon was sliced in half. No flank, legs, or even a tail. There were wings, which grabbed hold of the ground that Glacier was standing upon. What did lie behind the skeletal dragon was wires that connected to the large mass of land far above it. Then, the maw started to open. 

A long red leafy tendril came out. It looked sturdy enough to let her walk up it. The end of it stopped at the cliff in front of her. Glacier looked up at the face of the skeletal dragon. The eyes had glowing yellow eyes within the empty sockets. Both looking straight at her like it had a new form of interest for her. Glacier started to approach the leafy tongue of the dragon. When she got close enough to the edge. She was finally able to see more of the ground. In the distance, she saw a volcano that had already bursted. Lava poured down the sides, but any smoke that came out seemed to have ceased recently. 

To Glacier's right looked to be a well developed city. It was nothing like Glacier had ever seen before. The only problem was the fact that it was too far for her to see up close. Then down below the cliff she stood upon, was a sight that made Glacier give pause. It was a large city, but one with small houses. Almost like huts rather than actual homes. There were statues made neatly and professionally out of stone carving. All featuring a different pose of a dragon that Glacier had never seen before. They didn't even look like Skyro or any of the other twelve gods. The ones that seemed to have been responsible for creating the statues were dragon species that Glacier had never seen before either. Some were green and brown, purple, gray, or tan in color. 

They were all moving around like drones as creatures that were black thin, long slender arms that looked more like tentacles than hands. Stood tall above the dragons, watching their every move with a single floating eye ball over their bodies. The eye balls seemed to have an amazing view of their entire surroundings, including below them. They weren’t the only creatures though as there were also small bipedal crystal shaped things. Which seemed to be gliding casually across the ground with ease on razors. Glacier took in the sight, unable to conjure up any words. Then she turned her attention to the leafy tongue of the skeletal dragon. She took a moment to prepare herself before making her way up to the skeletal dragon’s maw. 

As soon as she stepped inside, she was now inside the ribcage. Which ended with a new portal that opened into a new grassy field. A large stone castle was visible only meters away. She went through the portal and found herself in front of a gate. Two statues, one on each side that looked just like the slim and tall eyeball monsters from down below. She was able to get a better look at the front of their bodies. Which seemed to be a black tuxedo with a red tie dangling off their chest. The eyeballs were being held up by a thin pole in the center. Glacier ignored them and started to approach the gate. Unsure if this was what she was supposed to do or not. After a solid minute or two, the gate started to creak open. Her ears also caught the noise of the eyeball statues moving. She turned and found that their eyes were staring directly at her now. Glacier felt her entire body shiver from the uncomfortable glares. Once the gate opened, she stepped through and into the castle. 

As soon as she was through, the gate behind her shut. She walked through the gateway before arriving at a staircase and a set of double doors. She stepped up the stairs slowly. The creaking and roaring of the wind blowing against and through the gaps of the stone made Glacier shiver again. This whole experience was beginning to make her uncomfortable. What the hell kind of nightmare did I just stumble upon? Once Glacier was at the double doors, which looked to be large enough to fit anyone or anything double the height of the twelve gods. She reached up to the doorknob, twisted it and pushed it inwards. The door opened with a noise that caused it to squeak loudly. Glacier stood in the doorway as she was able to see the first room visible to her. It had large pillars that kept up a balcony. A staircase at the end of the room that led up to the second floor. 

Glacier stepped into the room with caution. Her eyes darted around the room in case there was somebody waiting to leap at her. Once she was in the center of the room, she paused as she heard noises above. She lifted her head up and checked around for the source of it. Then a voice rang out throughout the room. “Dedication meets perfection.” She shifted her attention towards the cause of it. Which is when her entire body froze in place. It was a large, thick, indescribable shadow. The shadow moved across the wall, going down the stairs that were out of view from her. Eventually, the dark silhouette comes into view. It wasn’t a dragon but an entity that had energetic limbs surging in and out of existence. Its body was that of a large transparent crystal with lots of purple and magenta colored magic flowing through it. The monster went down the steps before stopping abruptly. The whole crystal was being held up with eight magical limbs like a spider.

Then the limbs sunk back into the crystal. Causing it to fumble onto the ground. However, it didn’t break like she expected it to. The crystal molded into a large magenta colored puddle. Which then started to slowly form a new physical form. The shape of the form started to snap with various tendrils that aren’t describable for Glacier. She stood and stared in complete silence, his maw wide open in shock. Once the shape was beginning to become recognizable for her. Glacier saw that it was starting to look like an abomination. It had six heads, six pairs of eyes on each one, all glowing pure white. The heads looked serpent in design, but the texture was all transparental crystals. The body itself looked nothing like a dragon’s body. It had six long skinny legs with pointy tips that stabbed into the ground. All of the heads turned towards Glacier, causing her to start freaking out. Oh no. She felt herself starting to back away. Unsure whether she should be terrified of it and start running. The same voice as before spoke and emanated off of the creature in front of her from the third head on the left. “Queen Glacier has come to take power over all.” 

“Has achieved what was asked. She is the chosen one.” The head to the right of the third mentioned afterwards. “She is worthy.” 

“Yes.” The sixth head hissed, before the entire thing approached her at once. She barely had time to react as all six heads were only inches from her face. 

“Queen Glacier will become the greatest of the land. Dominance for all to see.” The fourth head mentioned, starting to grin and show off its sharp yet crystalized teeth.

“Queen of one, now the queen of all.” The first head said. Then laughter washed over the room. The creature in front of her moved back like the laughter was a sign it should stop. The laughter was exactly like Asmosus’ from the realm she visited. The six headed crystal serpent deformed within a matter of seconds. It shaped into another liquid state before moving across the floor towards the staircase. “Follow, you will.” The monster exclaimed as it continued moving away from her. Despite Glacier’s hesitation, she did as she was told. Despite her not liking the idea of following orders. She had no idea where she was and what she was getting herself into. Glacier already felt out of place here. Once Glacier reached the first steps of the staircase. The magenta colored liquid shot up from the ground fast. She watched as it was pulled over the railings of the second floor overhang. She was about to run after it when new noises were heard. This time, they sounded like loud and harsh pawsteps. 

She waited at the start of the staircase. A new shadow was visible before quickly showcasing itself as a large, golden scaled dragon. At first, Glacier mistook them as Albatross. However, not only was the size nearly double the twelve gods’ size. This dragon had bright red glowing eyes that seemed to be radiant with energy. “Glacier…” The large dragon stopped at the edge of the stairs. It sounded exactly like Asmosus, if not perfectly. “You have arrived at your new home.” 

“My new home?” Glacier asked, unable to say anything else from her stun silence.

“You will grow to be supreme here.” Asmosus told her, a grin forming across his snout. “Because of me. Where you can become the most fierce, the most powerful dragoness in the world. Nobody can stop you and you have the chance to teach those that wronged you.” Asmosus lifted his paw and pointed at her. “With your willingness to do anything to achieve power, you will be feared and obeyed by all. All thanks to my help.” He placed a paw onto his chest as he kept grinning proudly at himself. 

“I…” Glacier stammered, unable to process what she had just seen so far. She felt like she was dreaming, while at the same time it felt very much real. Dragons that looked alien to her, monsters from worlds that looked otherworldly, and even an environment that shouldn’t even exist from her own experiences. Yet, here she was standing in front of everything that had just shattered her brain. “I don’t understand… W-What the hell is this place?” She gestured towards the windows that showcased the world below. The area that contained the slim tuxedo eyeball monsters and the different kinds of races of dragons that shouldn’t even exist. “I haven’t heard or seen anything like it before. Did you make it or was it always here? I’m so…” 

“This has existed for far longer than the island of Azoria. Many have claimed that it has existed since the beginning of time itself.” Asmosus told her. He waved his paw dismissively and his grin was now fully plastered onto his face. “But none of that matters. I can lead you to something that you have always wanted. A new future, power, and even the essence of an army that will forever obey you till the end of time. Everything you could ever ask for is here.” 

Glacier glanced over at the windows, the staircase, the rest of the room that she stood within. It was hard for her to believe that this was real. But despite the fear that she was simply dreaming all of this. She didn’t want to stop it either. She wanted to keep going and see where it takes her. Whether a good future will come from it or not. She didn’t care as long as she got what she came for. “What do I have to do?” She gulped, remembering when she asked that question barely a few hours ago. Glacier knew how that turned out. So, who knows what this one will make her do next. 

“You have a room to stay in on the second floor. Rest first, we’ll talk tomorrow about starting your journey to becoming queen.” Asmosus told her, his wing unfolding and gesturing up to the balcony on Glacier’s right. Which showcased several rooms with closed doors. The gaps between each room looked like the rooms themselves were very large. 

“But… I want to start now?” Glacier told Asmosus, furrowing her brows seriously. Asmosus didn’t respond as he waved his between her and the second floor. A magic bubble enveloped around her and she was pulled off the ground. She was lifted into the air before being released in front of a single door. Glacier looked down at herself then over in the direction of where Asmosus stood. Unfortunately, she couldn’t tell him more due to him being gone. 

Despite that, Asmosus still spoke like he was actively present near her. “The more energy you have, the more focused. You have a lot of progression and work to go through. Rest first, talk tomorrow.” Glacier blinked as she looked ahead at the door in front of her. For as much as her body wanted her to get to work now. She also knew that Asmosus was right. She was already starting to feel her body growing weaker the longer she stood there. Glacier let out a sigh and used her paw to open the door. Which ended up revealing a room with a bed and a window looking out into the world. Glacier glanced over at the bed then at the window. Uncertainty washed over her face as she contemplated if this was a good idea or not. A creature with abilities equivalent to the twelve gods is making me sleep here? She inspected her surroundings to find how disgusting the room really was. In this dump especially?

Glacier wanted to puke from the sight. However, she wasn’t wanting to give negative first impressions to the very thing that brought her here. After all, it was clear that this supposed ‘dragon’ wasn’t even a dragon. It was something else entirely. Her bones were telling her that this was a trap. Yet at the same time, she wasn’t going to stop now when she has gotten so much closer to getting what she wants. She wouldn’t have been able to do that if she tried getting her throne back manually. Glacier knew that she would’ve gotten locked up or killed doing that. Glacier stepped closer to the bed, running her digits against it. Thankfully, the sheets and the blankets seemed to be clean and fresh. Like they had just gotten clean shortly before her arrival. The door behind her slammed shut before she could process the idea of leaving. Glacier turned back to the door then at the bed in front of her. 

Glacier sighed deeply in annoyance. She grabbed the edge of the bed and pulled herself up on top of it. The soft texture of the bed sheets made her feel tired. She lowered her body until she was laying on her stomach. She rolled her body up into a ball, her tail wrapping around her body and her wings embracing her body. Glacier rested her head onto her tail. She didn’t close her eyes yet. Instead, she listened intently to her surroundings. She was able to catch the sounds of voices and distant noises from down below. Glacier was able to guess that they were coming from the other dragons. However, there were also noises from within the castle. Which Glacier guessed to be coming from Asmosus. She listened for a bit longer before closing her eyes. Her entire body eased and she let her breathing and heartbeat ease. It wouldn’t be long until she passed out. Even with her excitement in her chest, she was able to get herself to sleep peacefully. 

When Glacier woke up, she yawned and lifted her head. She glanced around the quiet room before looking towards the door. She was alone in the room. She pushed herself up into a sitting position. Then she slid off the bed, landing on all fours. It was weird to be waking up in a non Frigidian place. Her eyes darted over to the window, which made her curious by what could be on the other side. She walked over, used her hind legs to push the front of her body upwards until she was in front of the window. She used her arm to wipe off the cloudy effect that has built up onto it. 

Looking through the window, Glacier saw the grassy field that surrounded the castle. As well as a large, thick stone wall that surrounded the entire structure. So, this wasn't a dream. I really am here. She lowered herself from the window and started to head over to the door of the room. She opened it and stepped out into the hall. The railing that looked over into the main entrance and the staircase was in front of her. She looked both ways, double checking that there weren't any other dragons around. When she was ready, she turned right to go to the stairs. 

A loud growl from Glacier's stomach caught her attention. She grabbed her low belly and grumbled to herself. “Ugh, if only I didn't have to eat.” Glacier went down the steps and reached the first floor. Her ears perked up to the sounds of chatter coming from a room to the right of her and the stairs. She made her way over without making any noises. There was no door, only an archway with what looked to be small bones connected to strings that dangled off the top of the arch. Glacier eyed the bones for a few seconds, unsure if she should feel uncomfortable or amused. Unfortunately, the bones were shaped in ways that Glacier couldn't determine if they were dragon bones or not. 

Glacier stepped through the archway, the bones and strings rustling against her scales. Inside the room was a long table that stretched for what seemed like miles in each direction. Which to Glacier was physically impossible based on the dimensions of the castle from the outside. The walls were made up with a fancy brown, tan and white mixture wallpaper. Chandeliers hung from the ceiling every two meters. Paintings were hung up on the walls that depicted distorted drawings and disfigured dragons that Glacier didn't recognize from memory. As she looked around, then chatter started to come from her right. She turned her head and that's when she saw three distant objects moving. They were blurry to describe due to how far they were from her. 

“Um, hello? Asmosus?” She called out to the figures. The chatter stopped and the three blurry silhouettes seemed to have turned in her direction. There was a long quiet pause that nearly made Glacier uncomfortable. 

“Ah! Queen Glacier Glaze! Welcome!” The voice of Asmosus called to her. Then the whole room started to sink inwards upon itself from the two directions. Glacier stood exactly where she was despite wanting to jump out of the room. It was so fast and abrupt that dishes and silverware flung around the room. Thankfully, not a single one struck her. Once the room was a normal size, Glacier looked up to find a two legged dark gray lizard with horns on its head with armor that seemed to be glowing. He was less than half the height of her. The other creature that stood beside it was a form of cubical blocks, many small ones were appearing and disappearing around a body that was made of solid black cubes of varying sizes. It had no legs and seemed to be floating rather than standing. Despite it having no head, it seemed to have a larger cube at the top that was facing directly at her. “I’d like you to meet my two wonderful loyal companions that I have made to serve me.” Asmosus mentioned in the center of the two creatures. He gestured to the two legged dragon to his left. “This is Karnith, he is the overseer of the slaves.” Then he gestured over to the black cubical monster to his right. “And this is O’Thereal, he keeps the soldiers in order.” 

“Hello…” Glacier waved her paw at the two of them as a greeting. The bipedal lizard named Karnith waved back with a genuine smile. O’Thereal didn’t do anything or speak, only stared with a blank surface, no expression or visible face. 

Asmosus stood on all fours and gestured over at O’Thereal, turning to them. “O’Thereal here will get you started on your training. I want to ensure you are well trained and prepared for any fight that might come your way.” Asmosus’ tail moves towards Karnith next. “And my little buddy, Karnith the Asmyer will show you around.” He gave Karnith a path on the head with his paw. Karnith grinned widely and made a noise of pleasure from the gesture. Asmosus then motioned his paw in the direction of the table. “In the meantime, I can see that you are starving. O’Thereal, care to do the honors?” Asmosus requested, glimpsing over to him. Karnith watched silently with the same confident grin across his snout. The cubes that were vanishing and reappearing around him started to manifest onto the table. Glacier turned her attention to the spot where the cubes were beginning to mold together. Then a plate full of nicely cooked meat that Glacier had never seen before showed itself. Followed by mashed potatoes and red hot noodles on the side. Glacier stared at it in amazement, then glanced back up at Asmosus and O’Thereal. “Go ahead and eat, when you are done. Meet Karnith down below, he’ll show you around first before you can start training in the courtyard. In the meantime, I have some personal business to take care of. So, I won’t be around as much today. Take care.” Within a split second, Asmosus vanishes with a pop like a balloon. Karnith and O’Thereal exchange glances with each other before beginning to leave. 

Karnith gave Glacier one last look before leaving through the archway. O’Thereal didn’t follow him, but rather phased through the wall. Leaving Glacier completely alone to herself, still dumbstruck by the two weird creatures that she’s never seen before. This is probably not going to be the last time for that, huh? She shook the thought off as she sat down in front of her plate. She used the silverware to move around the meat. She didn’t fully understand what it was. However, it did look tasty and well cooked. She gave it a few sniffs to make sure it wasn’t laced with poison. When she considered it safe to consume, she dug in. She was slow at first, wanting to give a good impression for her first stay there. Her eyes darted around the dining room after hearing more strange noises. Thankfully, none of them appeared to be something to be concerned about. 

It took Glacier less than ten minutes to finish her meal. She glanced around at her surroundings, trying to determine if someone was going to collect it or not. She looked forward as she saw the plate fade into black cubes, then vanish completely. Glacier stared at the spot where it sat seconds prior. Glacier got up and started to leave the room. She went through the main room and arrived at the front doors. She didn’t know any other way to get down besides flying. As soon as she made it onto the other side. She was greeted by the sight of the statues once again. The eyeballs immediately moved to look at her. They both watched her like they expected her to do something illegal. She gulped, ignoring them as her wings spread out either side of her. She ran forward to create momentum before finally taking off into the air. 

Once Glacier was in the air and gaining height. She was able to get a better look at the distance around her. Based on the sun and the direction it was going. West from her, the ocean was visible as well as the storm wall. Which confirmed to her that she was still in the same plane as the island of Azoria. Glacier looked at the world around her. She saw the mountains, the volcano, the city, and even a better look at the storm wall. When she was ready, she descended over the cliff and to the ground below. Which is where she saw the other races of dragons roaming through the streets like blindless drones. As soon as she was on the ground. She landed softly onto the grass and inspected her surroundings more closely. Her mind was still struggling to process what she was looking at. 

The tall slender tuxedo eyeball monsters were observing each dragon as they went by. The different colors of dragons all seemed to have lost their wings. The side of each of them had scars where the wings were cut off. Glacier could tell that they were surgically removed, not messily. The huts were built to only hold at least one or two dragons each. There was barely any space between each hut as well. Then Glacier heard a voice call to her from behind. “Welcome to the main event, Frigidian.” She jerked her body around to find that it was Karnith. He walked up to her with the biggest smile on his snout. This time, he was carrying a double ended axe and a shield. Both of which were encased with a glowing magic aura around them. “Care for me to show you around? There’s not a lot to look at. So, you should be training with O’Thereal real soon.” 

“What is this place? Asmosus never told me.” Glacier asked him, wanting to go straight to the point. She gestured up to Asmosus’ castle, then to their surroundings. Her eyes went to the civilians that were walking in two single file lines parallel to each other. In both lines, they were going opposite directions to each other. 

“Well, the rats like to call this place, the ‘Blighted Lands’ if you can believe it.” Karnith laughed like it was a joke. “But Asmosus calls this ‘Imperium’ which I find very fitting for a name.” Karnith gestured for her to follow him. “As you can see, we have claimed quite a decent portion of territory. These little fellas are put to labor. They help build farms, statues, or just keep the economy running.” Karnith motioned towards the wingless dragons. Some were carrying baskets or buckets, while others were carrying different kinds of tools like pickaxes, axes, or hammers. “These tall boys are called Guardians. They do quite a wonderful job at keeping the skies cleansed.” 

“What do you mean?” Glacier asked, raising an eyebrow as they stepped past one of the slender eyeball creatures. She inspected for a long second, unsure what Karnith meant by that. 

That’s when shouting was heard. The lines had stopped to look over towards the source. Glacier turned in the direction to find a flock of dragons flying inwards. All of them had armor, carrying weapons that were nothing like Glacier had seen before. From a distance, she best described them as the flintlock rifles that Stellaris used back in Azoria. “The scabs have returned!” Glacier turned to find that the Guardians were beginning to move now. Their eyes aimed upwards to the group of dragons with armor. Glacier was able to count a total of fifty. They spread out across the sky as they were preparing to land. That’s when large beams of red light erupted from the eyes of the Guardians. Glacier glanced around at each of them as the sky lit up in red. Then she looked back up to find the red energy beams striking several dragons out of the sky. The beams were able to burn them completely, knocking them out of the sky. The Guardians became more determined by shooting their beams rapidly into the sky. She watched in horror as the number fell from fifty to less than ten. 

The remaining dragons landed off in the distance. One of them landed close enough for Glacier to see. These dragons seemed to be of the same race as the ones without wings. They rushed over at the civilians and attempted to coerce them to follow. However, they barely managed to get a few steps in when the same small crystal creatures that she’s seen earlier came into view. They were fast, so fast that Glacier could barely see them move. The dragon with the armor was unable to fight back as the small crystals cut their legs, paws, chest, body, and tail. They raised their shield and aimed their rifle at the creatures. Unlike the flintlock rifles, it shot rapidly at the tiny crystals. Upon impact, the tiny things erupted into dust. The dragon soldier raised their shield to block against a few more attacks. But it all ended abruptly when one of the Guardians bursted their energy beam at them. The shield was destroyed and the dragon fell over to their side lifeless. 

Glacier watched in stunned silence as the small crystals came over to inspect the now dead dragon soldier. Glacier turned to Karnith for an explanation for what she just saw. “Don’t worry about them, they’ve tried many times to get in but have always failed.” He waved his claw dismissively before motioning for her to keep following. 

“What about those things?” She asked, gesturing to the tiny two legged crystals. Each one was shaped and formed to look different than the last. 

“Those are called Lurkers, they are a newer concept Asmosus made. Aren’t they pretty? I’ve always wanted to eat one, but boss always says no.” Glacier took a mental note of their name. She glanced back in the direction of the attackers. The air has grown quiet and still now. Which told Glacier that the situation had ended. That was fast. Now I see why he said those Guardians are good for keeping the skies clear. Karnith then proceeded to show her around the tiny city. There wasn’t much, but the mere idea of having slaves piqued her interest. “Obviously the city itself isn’t really the heart of your work. The real deal is up there.” He pointed up at the city on the floating island. “Because from there, you get treated like a real queen, or king if you are Asmosus.” He chuckled to himself. 

“And what are you? And what exactly is O’Thereal? You look like a dragon if they knew how to stand on two legs.” Glacier pointed out, gesturing to him. 

Karnith laughed again, glimpsing down at himself. “Oh yes, that was sort of the boss's idea with that. I am what is called an Asymer. A short, bipedal dragon with no wings. I love consuming gems and ores and bashing things with my axe.” He held up his double bladed axe. He ran a digit along the side of it. “The thought alone makes me thirsty for action.” Glacier stared at him longingly, unsure what to say. It was going to take her weeks before she got used to this place. Karnith was entranced by his own reflection before snapping himself out of it. “Anyways, I can’t really answer any of your questions about O’Thereal. You’ll have to ask him yourself.” Then realization struck him, causing him to snap his digits. “Oh! Speaking of which, you should probably get heading back now. O’Thereal should be waiting for you back at the castle. You have a long journey ahead of you. Lots of training that you wouldn’t have been able to learn back on your little cozy island.” 

Glacier glanced up at the castle on the floating island. She knew that she couldn’t get anxious now. After all, she was here for a reason. And for that reason, she needed to work hard to get there. “Alright, thanks I guess for the… Walk through.” She mentioned as she gestured to the dragons around them. Then she extended her wings, ran and used the air current to pull herself off the ground. Karnith waved goodbye to her as she left. A smile with a few of his teeth were visible on his snout. Glacier ascended higher until she saw the spot she needed to land. An open flat field with several wooden dummies, crates full of weapons, as well as armor being hung up to wear. Glacier landed onto the field and started checking around for any sign of O’Thereal. 

It wouldn’t be long until O’Thereal would go through the wall of the castle. His black blocky form showed no sign of illumination from the sunlight. She saw that the large cubical head on the top was looking straight at her as it approached. Once it was three meters from her, it stopped and stared. When it spoke, its voice was fading in and containing a reverb. “You have come for your training, yes?” 

“I have.” Glacier told him. “What kind of training, may I ask? Physical or mental? Because if it's mental, then you better look elsewhere.” Glacier warned him, turning her head in a way to observe them from the side. 

“All of it.” O’Thereal told her, “There are many things you need to learn. Because unfortunately, the world has nasty things awaiting for you.” Glacier mumbled something incoherent to herself. She didn’t even know what she was trying to say. “Hold out your paws.” Glacier did as he told her. The black cubes surrounded her paw, appearing and vanishing within seconds of each other. The black cubes then started to collide together, before finally forming an axe. Glacier gripped it in her digits before looking up at O’Thereal. “First, we will start with the very reason you are here.” He turned towards the wooden mannequins. The same black cubes surrounded them, then they were enveloped before starting to shape into something recognizable. It was now a wooden physical representation of Avidan. Fully grown up and looking smug with a simple thin line indicating her snout. “Controlling your anger is essential for thinking critically. In order for you to become the best, you need to keep your emotions under control.” 

Glacier glared at the Avidan mannequin for a long while. She felt her mind getting clouded with angry thoughts, memories of when she betrayed her and kicked her out twice. The way she never seemed bothered by the fact that she was the reason her father left. Her claws clenched into fists as she gripped the axe in her paws. Then she started to walk towards the wooden mannequin. O’Thereal glided across the ground, following her close behind without getting too close. Once Glacier was right in front of Avidan. She looked straight into its blank and lifeless expression. Its eyes didn’t move, but Glacier could feel her staring back at her with that look of self confidence. “I brought you into this world and you tossed me out like trash. I am your mother, I can’t believe you would do this to me.” Glacier raised the axe upwards, wanting to swing down upon it. When she started to swing it down, black cubes caught her before it could strike. 

Her eyes shifted over to O’Thereal beside her. Even without a face or noticeable emotion on it. It still gave Glacier the feeling that it was disappointed in her. She jerked the axe back and let it lay flat beneath her paw. “This is why you are here. To control your emotions.” 

“What if I don’t want them controlled? Ever think about that?” Glacier growled back, giving him a distasteful look. 

“Then you will die before you will ever become queen. They might have taken away from you, but they can take you away from this world too if you aren’t careful.” Glacier listened to his words like it was sound advice. Eventually, she turned to the wooden mannequin and sighed deeply. “Think smart, not with emotion.” 

“What are you?” Glacier asked him, wanting to take a step back from the task before proceeding. “I can understand a lot from the other things I’ve seen. But you? You look nothing like a real organism. You look…” She paused to try and find the appropriate word to describe him. 

“Ethereal?” O’Thereal replied almost instantly. “Hence my name?” He chuckled, but it didn’t sound like he was amused. Instead, it was like he found pleasure from her confusion. “Do not ask questions that you don’t want to know the answer to, majesty.” Glacier stared at him longingly, raising a brow for a few moments. She turned to the wooden mannequin representing Avidan. She raised the axe with her paw, checking it over before facing her. She took a deep breath, relaxing herself and clearing out her mind. When she felt calm and collected enough, she put herself into a ready position. As she was about to go in for a strike. Her ears caught the sounds of something fast approaching. She looked up towards the sky and saw black smoke trailing behind metal objects. Before either of them could respond, the objects came crashing down upon the castle. Causing a large explosion upon impact. Rubble and debris flew around. Glacier ducked her head in shock and horror from the explosions. O’Thereal watched blankly at the sight. She didn’t need to see his face to know he was horrified. 

Several more of the same thing struck the castle and the walls. O’Thereal turned to her then vanished through the ground. “No! Where the hell are you going?!” She shouted, dumbstruck by him leaving her like that. Her attention went back to the skies above as she saw more objects flying through the air. They passed the castle and the floating island. Glacier started to head towards the door that led into the castle. She tried to burst it open, but to no avail. She rammed her body against it, but it was like there was debris on the other side keeping it from opening. She attempted to kick it, but it remained shut. Then she opened her maw and let out a burst of ice towards the doorknob. Once it was nice and cold, she used as much force as possible to break it off. Once the knob was off, she kicked it harder with her back legs. Once again, the door refused to budge. 

“Fuck.” Glacier turned her attention to the skies, extending her wings to take off. However, before she could do anything, three of the same kinds of guards from moments prior flew in. They landed with the same armor, shields and rifles. One of them aimed it at Glacier, which was the last thing they should’ve done. Glacier opened her maw and shot out a large burst of ice in their direction. The rifle in their grasp froze over. Then Glacier used her wings, took off from the ground and struck them with the axe on the head. The other two guards started to aim their rifles at her next. Once she pulled the axe off the first, she dodged out of the way and used her ice breath to create an ice wall between them and her. One of them started to fire, but collided against the ice wall. While they were distracted, she rushed around the wall and swung the tip of her tail at the closest one to her. The sharp razor of the tail tip sliced their chest and neck. Followed by tossing the whole razor towards the second one. As soon as they reloaded their rifle, the razor whipped them in the face. They fell down to the ground lifeless.

Glacier began to pant heavily, her eyes darting around to the sky above. They aren’t the only ones! I know that for certain! Whoever these punks are, they fought the wrong dragon! She declared in her mind, spreading out her wings and getting ready to fly. That’s when several shots were fired at her. Her legs gave off from a sharp pain. She fell over to her face and stomach. She looked up to find four more guards flying in with the same rifles and shields. “Halt! You aren’t going anywhere!” Glacier growled as she started to push herself up despite the pain. No, fuck you! She started to limp, but she didn’t care. She turned around to face them. 

“Fuck off! You aren’t going to kill me now!” Glacier was about to open her snout to let out a breath of ice at them. That’s when one of the soldiers shot another round at her. This time, it struck her in the chest. Which ended up causing her to fall over again. She grasped her chest and struggled to breath. The guards landed onto the ground and started to walk over to her. They kept their rifles aimed at her. The blood loss was beginning to affect her physically. She felt her vision getting blurry and her body no longer wanted to move. 

“Let’s take her back to get patched up.” The one in the back said, moving towards their pouch to pull something out. 

“What the hell is she even? I’ve never seen a dragon like her before.” The second chimed in, reaching out to pick her up. 

The one beside him glanced back to the one behind. They helped the second by reaching out to grab Glacier. “How long will he be gone for?”

“Not long, we need to hurry and get out with as many victims as possible. Let’s get-” The soldier exclaimed, but was interrupted by something forming at their feet. “Oh shit! He’s back!” They aimed their rifle at the ground, but was instantly enveloped by black cubes forming around them. The other two let go of Glacier and started to aim their own guns to the black cubes. The soldier being surrounded by black cubes was then swiftly overtaken then pulled into the ground. Then O’Thereal showed himself in person shortly afterwards. The two soldiers aimed and began firing. Due to how close they were, the shots caused her to nearly lose her hearing. She wanted to reach up and close the wound with her paw, but her body was too weak and hurt. Each of the shots collided against O’Thereal, but showed no sign of harm. Once they ran out of ammo, they stood there stunned by the lack of effect they made. That’s when sharp pointy needles shot out from O’Thereal’s body, hitting them in the heads. The two soldiers died within seconds of contact. O’Thereal released them then rushed to Glacier’s side. The black cubes formed together to create a flat bed for her to lie on. 

“I apologize for leaving so suddenly. I didn’t expect soldiers to come here so fast.” O’Thereal told her, “I’m back now, let’s heal you up.” Glacier slightly nodded, but the weakness was too much. She closed her eyes and felt her mind already beginning to doze off. Before she knew it, she fell asleep. The blood loss was too much to bear for her. She just hoped that she’ll be alive by the time she wakes up again.